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Description

The Focusrite Liquid Mix 16 is an essential tool for audio enthusiasts craving the warmth and character of classic processing without the hassle of maintaining vintage gear. This FireWire-connected DSP powerhouse brings the acclaimed Liquid Technology to your studio, offering 16 channels of top-tier EQ and compression emulations. With 40 compressors and 20 EQs at your disposal, you can easily replicate the tones of rare and priceless hardware.

At the heart of the Liquid Mix 16 is Focusrite's patented Dynamic Convolution process, which captures the nuanced behavior of classic processors across various settings. This means you get unparalleled emulation accuracy without taxing your computer’s CPU. The included desktop control surface provides an intuitive and tactile mixing experience, complete with physical metering and rotary controls for hands-on manipulation.

Each channel functions as an independent VST/AU/RTAS effect, ensuring seamless integration with all major DAWs, including Pro Tools. The "Free" mode for compressors transforms limited original units into fully-featured tools, offering creative flexibility like never before. For those looking to expand, an optional card increases channel count, making the Liquid Mix 16 a scalable solution for growing studios.

Key Features:

  • 16 channels of DSP-accelerated EQ and compression emulations
  • 40 compressors and 20 EQs sampled from vintage originals
  • Patented Dynamic Convolution process for authentic sound replication
  • Hybrid 7-band Super EQ for customized sound shaping
  • Compressor 'Free' mode for enhanced control
  • Tactile desktop control surface with physical metering
  • Compatible with AU, VST, and RTAS platforms
  • Optional expansion card for additional channels
  • Mac and Windows compatible

Product specs

Brand Focusrite
Model Liquid Mix 16
Year 2010
Categories Multi-Effect

FAQs

What types of compressors and EQs are available on the Focusrite Liquid Mix 16?

The Focusrite Liquid Mix 16 offers 40 compressors and 20 EQs, all emulated from vintage originals. Users can also access a free expanding library online for additional options.

How does the Dynamic Convolution process enhance the Liquid Mix 16's performance?

The Dynamic Convolution process provides highly accurate emulations of classic EQ and compression, delivering sound quality that closely mimics vintage hardware.

Can I create custom EQ settings with the Liquid Mix 16?

Yes, the Liquid Mix 16 features a Hybrid Super EQ that allows you to create unique 7-band EQs by combining different classic EQ bands.

How does the Liquid Mix 16 reduce CPU load during use?

The Liquid Mix 16 runs 16 instances of its processing off the desktop hardware, significantly reducing the impact on your computer's CPU.

Is it possible to expand the number of channels on the Liquid Mix 16?

Yes, by installing an optional expansion card, you can increase the number of channels at 44.1/48kHz from 16 to 24, and at 88.2/96kHz from 4 to 8.

Sound On Sound magazine

Sound On Sound magazine

Frankfurt Musikmesse 2008: Focusrite Liquid Mix 16

Video thumbnail for Frankfurt Musikmesse 2008: Focusrite Liquid Mix 16 by Sound On Sound magazine

Frankfurt Musikmesse 2008: Focusrite Liquid Mix 16

Sound On Sound magazine

Sound On Sound magazine

Video thumbnail for Musikmesse Frankfurt 2008: Focusrite Liquid Mix 16 demo by MusicRadar

Musikmesse Frankfurt 2008: Focusrite Liquid Mix 16 demo

MusicRadar

MusicRadar

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Focusrite Liquid Mix 16.

Software and compatibility

  • Liquid Mix is limited to compatibility with OSX 10.6 and Win7, creating challenges for users with modern operating systems.

    Source
  • Owners express frustration over the Liquid Mix becoming obsolete due to its reliance on software, which does not support modern PCs.

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Features and functionality

  • The Liquid Mix relies on convolution for processing, lacking real hardware circuitry, which differentiates it from other models like the Liquid Channel.

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  • Despite being an external DSP, the appeal of Liquid Mix lies in its sound quality rather than the processing power itself.

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  • Enthusiasts consider the Liquid Mix a 'relic,' suggesting its past popularity and functionality as a notable piece of studio gear.

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Comparisons

  • The Liquid Mix is contrasted with the Liquid Channel, with the latter offering a matrix of real components for emulation, making it more versatile.

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Use cases and applications

  • For users with older systems seeking vintage EQs and compressors without entering the UAD ecosystem, Liquid Mix remains a viable option.

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  • The Liquid Mix is praised for its effectiveness in mixing and mastering, highlighting its appeal for those focusing on sound quality in these areas.

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User experience

  • Users describe the disappointment of finding their Liquid Mix unusable with new hardware, indicating the impact of technological advancements on its continued use.

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Critic Reviews

Focusrite Liquid Mix 16 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Focusrite's Liquid Mix 16 is a budget-friendly gateway to their acclaimed dynamic convolution technology, offering 40 compressors and 20 EQs from classic gear models. While it's limited to 16 channels without expansion and misses the original screen, it retains robust sonic capabilities for £275. The hardware control surface enhances workflow, encouraging creativity with easy switching of compression and EQ models. However, consider your processing needs and screen preference before purchase. Overall, Liquid Mix 16 delivers impressive dynamics and EQ solutions at a fraction of the price.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

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ezoterica

If you're looking for characterful compression and EQ to warm up your computer-based mixes, Focusrite's Liquid Mix might just be the answer.

Focusrite's Liquid Mix is a DSP-powered add-on for your computer that hosts a large range of compressor and equaliser plug-ins, all created using a novel form of convolution technology to measure and then emulate the audio characteristics of hardware devices. We carried a fairly detailed preview a couple of months ago, but now that the production version (v1.2) is shipping, we've had a chance to put all its emulated EQs and compressors to the test and also to try out some small updates to the original software.

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