Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.0 (30)
$649.99
Amazon
4.5 (41)
$649.99 New
$584.99 Used (Like New)
Reverb
4.0 (10)
$599.00 New
$126.90 Used
zZounds
5.0 (5)
$649.99
Thomann
4.7 (50)
$644.00 $639.00 $5.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£563.00
Vintage King
5.0 (1)
$692.99

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Meet the PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller, a must-have gear for your recording studio. This versatile device is designed to manage all your monitoring needs with ease and precision. It's a favorite among professionals, offering the perfect blend of multiple stereo inputs, outputs, and recording-communication functionalities.

The Central Station Plus enables you to switch seamlessly between three sets of stereo, analog input sources, each with individual level controls. It also includes two stereo S/PDIF digital sources, connecting via one coax and one Toslink optical port. Best of all, its signal path is entirely passive, ensuring the utmost audio quality without any interference from op-amps or ICs.

Adding further value, the Central Station Plus comes with a Control Station Remote (CSR-1), allowing you to control the main volume, input select, output select, talkback, mute, dim, and mono functions right from your desktop.

Key Features:

  • Completely passive signal path for maximum audio quality
  • Five stereo inputs (2 digital and 3 analog) for flexible connectivity
  • High-definition 24-bit / 192kHz DAC for superior dynamic range
  • Three pairs of monitor outputs with single volume control for easy management
  • Talkback function directly on the device for instant communication
  • Highly accurate 30-segment LED for precision monitoring
  • Two headphone amplifiers with separate volume control for individual listening experiences
  • MAIN and CUE outputs handle different input sources for better control
  • Includes CSR-1 remote control for convenient operation

Product specs

Input Channels 6
Output Channels 10
Analog Inputs 4 x TRS, 2 x RCA
Analog Outputs 10 x TRS, 1 x 1/4" (Headphones)
Digital Inputs 1 x S/PDIF, 1 x TOSLINK
Talkback Yes
Form Factor Rackmount
Height 1.75"
Width 19"
Depth 5.5"
Weight 2.5 lbs.

FAQs

What are the main connectivity options for the PreSonus Central Station Plus?

The PreSonus Central Station Plus offers multiple connectivity options, including 4 TRS and 2 RCA analog inputs, as well as 1 S/PDIF and 1 TOSLINK digital input. It also features 10 TRS analog outputs and a 1/4" headphone output.

Does the PreSonus Central Station Plus include a talkback feature?

Yes, the PreSonus Central Station Plus includes a talkback feature, allowing communication between the control room and the studio floor, which is essential for efficient studio sessions.

Is the PreSonus Central Station Plus compatible with rackmount setups?

Yes, the PreSonus Central Station Plus is designed as a rackmount unit, with dimensions of 1.75" in height, 19" in width, and 5.5" in depth, making it suitable for integration into standard studio racks.

How does the remote control enhance the functionality of the PreSonus Central Station Plus?

The included desktop remote control allows for convenient access to the unit's core functions, such as input selection and volume control, from your mixing position, enhancing workflow efficiency in the studio.

Can the PreSonus Central Station Plus manage multiple monitor setups?

Yes, the PreSonus Central Station Plus is specifically designed to manage multiple monitor setups, allowing you to switch between different speaker pairs and ensuring accurate monitoring across various audio sources.

Full Compass

Full Compass

PreSonus Central Station Studio Control Center Overview | Full Compass

Video thumbnail for PreSonus Central Station Studio Control Center Overview | Full Compass by Full Compass

PreSonus Central Station Studio Control Center Overview | Full Compass

Full Compass

Full Compass

Video thumbnail for Presonus Central Station Plus Review Update (Rant)(UPDATED 2022) by OUTPUT

Presonus Central Station Plus Review Update (Rant)(UPDATED 2022)

OUTPUT

OUTPUT

Video thumbnail for PreSonus Centeral Station Plus Reveiw by OUTPUT

PreSonus Centeral Station Plus Reveiw

OUTPUT

OUTPUT

Video thumbnail for "Presonus Central Station vs. SPL 2 Control - Monitor Controller Showdown! Pros, Cons, Ins & Outs" by New Music Review

"Presonus Central Station vs. SPL 2 Control - Monitor Controller Showdown! Pros, Cons, Ins & Outs"

New Music Review

New Music Review

Video thumbnail for Unboxing | Presonus Central Station Plus | Studio Gear | Recording Studio by Mot & Krid

Unboxing | Presonus Central Station Plus | Studio Gear | Recording Studio

Mot & Krid

Mot & Krid

Reviews

PROS

  • Seamless A/B switching between inputs and outputs with a single button press

  • Built-in calibration for accurate meter matching with DAW or other devices

  • Solid build with metal housing and reliable, tactile controls

  • Multiple simultaneous outputs and flexible speaker selection options

  • Dual headphone outputs with independent source selection

  • Multi-input capability including SPDIF, TOS, and AUX for versatile connectivity

  • Handy remote controller with a small desktop footprint

  • Useful talkback function with built-in mic and automatic dimming

  • Rare durability and longevity, with many units lasting over a decade

  • Transparent sound with no noticeable coloration, according to most users

CONS

  • Blue LED lights can be too bright and distracting for some users

  • Headphone output volume may not be sufficient for all users

  • Susceptible to static shock, which may affect performance

  • Talkback circuit reportedly has poor sound quality for some users

  • Unsealed pots and switches may require regular maintenance

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller.

Comparisons

  • Owners found the Dangerous Monitor ST to have a cleaner stereo image and less distortion compared to the PreSonus Central Station and Mackie Big Knob.

    Source
  • The Audient Nero offers perfect stereo tracking and extensive I/O options, surpassing the Big Knob in digital flexibility.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Dangerous Monitor ST includes a physical stepped attenuator, offering transparency over VCA and DCA, which can affect the audio signal differently.

    Source
  • The Presonus Central Station with remote is valued for its rack-mounted design, hiding all IO, but users report issues with the mono button intermittently failing.

    Source
  • The Heritage Audio Baby RAM includes a satisfying stepped volume knob, praised for its tactile feedback.

    Source
  • Audient Nero supports up to three monitor sets and includes a cue mix for multiple sources, unlike many competitors.

    Source

User experience

  • Upgrading from a Central Station to a Dangerous ST significantly improved listening accuracy, with users emphasizing newfound peace of mind in sound quality.

    Source
  • After years of reliable use, a Presonus Central Station owner noted that the unit's talkback feature broke, highlighting potential durability concerns over time.

    Source
  • The Mackie Big Knob's dim knob can get stuck, randomly cutting audio to one speaker.

    Source
  • Some users report the Mackie Big Knob adds noise and hum, particularly between 40-60% volume and when the Dim button is pressed.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Dangerous Source's digital-to-analog conversion outperformed even the high-quality converters in an RME Fireface 802, showcasing its advantage in professional setups.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Dangerous monitor controllers are considered high-quality niche products, explaining their higher prices due to limited production and professional demand.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • One owner experienced a loud short when using headphone extenders with the Presonus Central Station, requiring a power cycle to resolve.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A user found a workaround for a failed talkback feature by using a SoundRadix Muteomatic plugin, which auto-mutes during playback or recording.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 17 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
captchesmusic

good monitorcontroller

a really nice monitor controller, the optional remote is very nice

djtimwaters

the volume. pump it up.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Daft Punk uses PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller

Daft Punk

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Daft Punk utilized the PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller, as evidenced by an image showing the device in their setup. This piece of equipment was either used to control their in-ear monitors (IEMs) or to receive audio from the Moog Voyager.

See how Dash Berlin uses PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller

Dash Berlin

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Twitter

We spotted the PreSonus Central Station in a rack mount in Dash Berlin's studio.

See how Owl City uses PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller

Owl City

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Ayoungmusic

Owl City controls studio monitors with the Central Station Plus.

See how Ferry Corsten uses PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller

Ferry Corsten

Music Producer, DJ

S.O.A.

...
Verified via YouTube

At 1:03, one can see the PreSonus CSR-1 on Ferry's desk, lit and therefore connected. The CSR-1 is designed to control the Central Station specifically, so it stands to reason that Ferry has the Central Station as well.

See how Tim Hecker uses PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller

Tim Hecker

Music Producer

...
Verified

Tim Hecker references the PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller in a tweet, suggesting its use in his studio setup.

See how JHope uses PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller

JHope

Singer, Rapper

BTS

...
Verified via YouTube

at 0:23, you can briefly see this monitor controller.

See how Ryan "Fluff" Bruce uses PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller

Ryan "Fluff" Bruce

Guitarist, Music Producer

Dragged Under

...
Verified via YouTube

On this video you can see the central station on the top of the right side of the table

See how Charlotte de Witte uses PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller

Charlotte de Witte

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

per this Twitter screenshot, a Central Station can be seen on the right, and its rack unit can be seen mounted on the left.

See how Andrew Bayer uses PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller

Andrew Bayer

Music Producer

Nimmo & Bayer

...
Verified via Instagram

Presonus Central Station is on the rack

See how Cash Cash uses PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller

Cash Cash

Music Producer

...
Verified via Instagram

i spot Presonus central station Monitoring controller on cash cash instagram video, you can see clearly in the bottom of the video, there's a "central station" and "presonus" text logo on the hardware.

See how Astrix uses PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller

Astrix

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Instagram

In an Instagram post by Astrix, featuring a collaboration with Ace Ventura, the PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller is visible in use.

See how Devendra Banhart uses PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller

Devendra Banhart

Singer, Guitarist

Megapuss

...
Verified via Photo

In the image taken from the making-of short-film for 'Mala', it can be clearly seen that Devendra has an uses a PreSonus Central Station in his rack.

Album Usage

The PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use PreSonus Central Station Plus Monitoring Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Ableton Live
Ableton Live DAW Software
2
PreSonus CSR-1 Central Station Remote
PreSonus CSR-1 Central Station Remote Studio Monitor Management
2
Apple MacBook Pro (General)
Apple MacBook Pro (General) Computers & Peripherals
1
Access Virus TI Desktop
Access Virus TI Desktop Tabletop Synthesizers
1
Fender American Standard Telecaster
Fender American Standard Telecaster Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
Taylor 314CE Acoustic Guitar
Taylor 314CE Acoustic Guitar Acoustic-Electric Guitars
1
Korg SQ-1
Korg SQ-1 Audio Sequencers
1

Community setups

Show yours
dystopiansoundscapes

dystopiansoundscapes

Gear IQ 237

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