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Description

Experience unparalleled control and versatility with the Central Station Passive Speaker Control, a must-have for any professional or project studio. This device elegantly manages multiple audio sources and speaker monitoring, allowing seamless transitions between three sets of stereo analog inputs and two stereo S/PDIF digital sources—one via coax and another via Toslink optical port. Whether you’re auditioning sources or switching between up to three pairs of speakers, each equipped with individual trim pots, the Central Station provides precision and reliability.

Designed with a focus on sonic transparency, the Central Station boasts an audiophile-quality passive signal path, ensuring that your audio remains pristine without interference from op-amps or ICs. The 24-bit, 192 kHz D/A converters ensure your digital inputs maintain high-definition clarity, making it an ideal choice for critical listening environments.

Adding to its functionality, the Central Station features two line-level main outputs, line-level cue outputs, and two powerful headphone amplifiers with individual level controls. The built-in talkback system, complete with an electret condenser microphone, allows effortless communication with musicians, while the XLR input can accommodate an external dynamic mic for enhanced flexibility.

The unit’s dual 30-segment LED meters let you keep a keen eye on input levels, with peak-hold and clear functions for detailed monitoring. With the CSR-1 Remote, you gain remote control over volume, muting, input-source switching, and talkback mic operations, promoting an uncluttered workspace and streamlined workflow.

Key Features:

  • Three sets of stereo analog inputs and two S/PDIF digital sources
  • Pristine passive signal path with no op-amps or ICs
  • 24-bit, 192 kHz D/A converters for high-definition audio
  • Dual 30-segment LED meters with peak-hold and clear functions
  • Built-in talkback mic and XLR input for external mic
  • CSR-1 remote for convenient desktop control
  • Individual trim pots for each speaker output
  • Two line-level main outputs and cue outputs
  • Two headphone amplifiers with separate level controls

Product specs

Brand PreSonus
Model Central Station
Finish Metal
Year 2010s
Categories Utility

FAQs

How does the PreSonus Central Station switch between audio sources?

The Central Station features 3 sets of stereo analog inputs and 2 sets of S/PDIF digital inputs, allowing you to switch seamlessly between different audio sources.

Can I control the volume of each speaker output on the PreSonus Central Station?

Yes, each of the 3 stereo speaker outputs has a recessed trim pot for individual volume control.

Does the PreSonus Central Station affect the audio quality?

The Central Station maintains audio purity with its passive audio path, which means there are no op amps or ICs in the main audio path, ensuring pristine sound quality.

What are the talkback features of the PreSonus Central Station?

It includes an onboard talkback microphone and a talkback microphone input with level control, which can feed headphone and cue outputs. There's also a footswitch jack for hands-free operation.

Is the PreSonus Central Station rack-mountable?

Yes, the Central Station features a rugged steel chassis that is 1U 19" rack-mountable, making it suitable for professional studio setups.

What digital conversion capabilities does the PreSonus Central Station offer?

It includes high-definition, 24-bit, 192 kHz D/A converters with a 115 dBu dynamic range for exceptional digital audio quality.

JRR Shop

JRR Shop

PreSonus - Central Station

Video thumbnail for PreSonus - Central Station by JRR Shop

PreSonus - Central Station

JRR Shop

JRR Shop

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Central Station Passive Speaker Control.

Features and functionality

  • The Dangerous Monitor ST includes a physical stepped attenuator, ensuring transparency compared to VCA and DCA, which can degrade audio quality.

    Source
  • Dangerous Monitor ST provides level matching for up to three pairs of speakers, enhancing versatility in professional setups.

    Source
  • Heritage Audio Baby RAM is praised for its completely passive design, rotary switches for channel matching, and lack of noise or distortion.

    Source
  • Soundskulptor MC624, a DIY build, is noted for transparency and functionality, being highly recommended for those comfortable with assembly.

    Source
  • Genelec SAM series allows direct AES/ABU digital signal input, digital crossover, and DAC per amplifier; control gain via network without signal path additions.

    Source
  • Dangerous Music Source is recommended for those mixing in-the-box, noted for integrated DAC and monitor control, though lacking a power button can be inconvenient.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Dangerous Monitor ST offers cleaner audio and better stereo imaging than Presonus Central Station and Mackie Big Knob, which introduce distortion.

    Source
  • Drawmer MC2.1 and Audient Nero offer similar features to Dangerous units at a lower price, though some report phase issues with Audient.

    Source
  • Presonus Central Station has been reported with channel dropouts, specifically the left channel, which requires cranking the volume to restore sound.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Dangerous units are justified in price for professional use, offering features like mono switch, sub control, and low pass filter.

    Source

User experience

  • Upgrading from Presonus Central Station to a Dangerous unit is considered a significant improvement in audio monitoring accuracy.

    Source
  • Users report Big Knob as noisy and Presonus models as having excessive features that may lead to breakage; simplicity is recommended.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Dangerous Monitor ST is recommended for professionals needing reliable monitoring; not essential for casual recording or beat-making.

    Source

Critic Reviews

PreSonus Central Station

soundonsound.com

PreSonus Central Station impresses as a high-quality passive monitor controller that excels in transparency and versatility, serving DAW-based studios with five stereo inputs and three speaker outputs. Its passive, relay-based signal path ensures pristine audio, while the optional CSR1 remote enhances usability. However, it lacks a phase-reverse option and single-speaker mono output. The external power supply may irk some, but its talkback and cue features, coupled with impressive D-A conversion, make it a standout choice for serious audio professionals. Overall, a solid investment for those prioritizing audio clarity and control.

positive

PreSonus: Central Station, CSR-1 Remote | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The PreSonus Central Station impresses with its sturdy build and innovative design, offering clean, uncolored audio through a passive signal path. Its versatile routing options and smooth control make it a valuable addition to any studio, replacing multiple devices with its comprehensive functionality. The lack of adjustable dim control during talkback and quirks with the CSR-1 remote are minor setbacks. However, the Central Station's unique features, like pristine sound and ease of use, make it a standout choice for purists and professionals alike.

positive

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Artist usage

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See how Richard Devine uses Central Station Passive Speaker Control

Richard Devine

Keyboardist, Composer

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The item can be seen 11:34 into this video

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Central Station Passive Speaker Control, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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