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Description

Transform your sound experience with the PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2AI Digital Mixer. This 16-channel powerhouse is designed for both the live environment and the studio, offering seamless integration of cutting-edge technology with intuitive usability. With its Active Integration (AI) technology, it harmonizes comprehensive digital mixing capabilities with the flexibility of wireless control, allowing you to adjust your mix from anywhere in the venue using your iOS device or laptop.

The StudioLive 16.4.2AI boasts 16 pristine Class-A XMAX preamps, ensuring your audio signals are captured with clarity and warmth. The built-in DSP, featuring the renowned Fat Channel, provides a full channel strip with 4-band parametric EQ, dynamics, and more, allowing for precise sound control. Whether you are crafting a complex studio project or managing a live show, this mixer delivers powerful performance every time. With its FireWire audio interface, you can easily record your sessions and share them instantly.

Designed for musicians who demand versatility and high-quality sound, the StudioLive 16.4.2AI is more than just a mixer; it's your ultimate partner in crafting unforgettable audio experiences.

Key Features:

  • 16 Class-A XMAX preamps for superior sound quality
  • Active Integration (AI) technology for seamless wireless control
  • Fat Channel with 4-band parametric EQ and extensive dynamics
  • FireWire audio interface for easy recording and sharing
  • Intuitive interface for both live sound and studio environments

Product specs

Brand PreSonus
Model StudioLive 16.4.2 AI
Finish Silver
Year 2010s
Made In United States
Categories Audio Interfaces, Audio Mixers, Consoles and Summing Boxes

FAQs

Does the PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2AI have motorized faders?

No, the PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2AI does not feature motorized faders.

How can I connect the PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2AI to my computer?

You can connect the StudioLive 16.4.2AI to your computer using Ethernet cables via a router. Connect your computer's Ethernet port to a LAN port on the router and another cable from the router to the mixer’s Control port.

What types of outputs are available on the PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2AI?

The PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2AI offers main outputs on both XLR and balanced ¼" jacks, a full-range XLR Mono output, and balanced ¼" jacks for subgroup, aux send, and control room outputs. Additionally, it includes RCA jacks for stereo tape sends and returns.

Can the PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2AI be used as an audio interface?

Yes, the PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2AI can function as an audio interface when connected to a computer, allowing for multi-channel recording and playback.

Is the PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2AI suitable for live sound applications?

Yes, the StudioLive 16.4.2AI is designed for live sound applications, offering extensive mixing capabilities and flexible output options suitable for various live performance settings.

MusicStoreTV

MusicStoreTV

Presonus StudioLive AI Mixer Series

Video thumbnail for Presonus StudioLive AI Mixer Series by MusicStoreTV

Presonus StudioLive AI Mixer Series

MusicStoreTV

MusicStoreTV

Video thumbnail for PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2AI Digital Mixer - Presonus Studiolive 16.4.2AI by American Musical Supply

PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2AI Digital Mixer - Presonus Studiolive 16.4.2AI

American Musical Supply

American Musical Supply

Video thumbnail for Presonus Studiolive (Gen II) 16.4.2 AI - Soundboard Tour by Andrew Bellous

Presonus Studiolive (Gen II) 16.4.2 AI - Soundboard Tour

Andrew Bellous

Andrew Bellous

Video thumbnail for PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2 AI Digital Mixer - PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2 AI by American Musical Supply

PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2 AI Digital Mixer - PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2 AI

American Musical Supply

American Musical Supply

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2AI Digital Mixer.

Features and functionality

  • The PreSonus 16.4.2AI offers a 31 band graphic EQ per aux and sub delays, which was a surprise feature for some users.

    Source
  • The PreSonus 16.4.2AI lacks motorized faders, which can be a drawback for those accustomed to more modern digital mixers with this feature.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to the Behringer XR18, the PreSonus 16.4.2AI's preamps are reported to have better sound quality, avoiding the "wet paper bag" effect when clipped.

    Source
  • The Allen & Heath CQ-18T, despite lacking faders, offers a touch screen with programmable buttons and knobs, providing a modern alternative to the outdated PreSonus.

    Source
  • Initially, the 16.4.2AI was a significant upgrade over analog Mackie boards, offering FireWire recording, which was revolutionary for small band setups at the time.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners have experienced frequent crashes during live shows, with some units bricking themselves due to design issues acknowledged by PreSonus.

    Source
  • Some prefer the tactile controls of the PreSonus over tablet-only interfaces, but newer options like A&H's touch screen models are gaining favor.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The mixer is seen as suitable for hobbyists or rehearsal spaces rather than professional settings due to reliability concerns.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Users suggest using the Universal Control app with a WiFi adapter for enhanced functionality, such as connecting an iPad for remote control.

    Source
  • Users note that a Thunderbolt 2 to FireWire adapter can connect the PreSonus 16.0.2 to modern devices, maintaining its functionality without requiring a new console.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some users report issues with the screen being difficult to see in daylight and the console running hot during use.

    Source
  • The power supply issues are common, making the early StudioLive mixers unreliable, often considered a "ticking timebomb."

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The PreSonus 16.4.2AI is perceived as outdated; alternatives like a used Behringer X32 Compact are suggested for better value in the same price range.

    Source
  • Priced at $150 without an I/O card, it's seen as overpriced e-waste unless replacement parts are found.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users have successfully combined parts from multiple broken 16.4.2 AI units to create a functional mixer, often more cost-effective than buying individual parts.

    Source

Critic Reviews

PreSonus: StudioLive 16.4.2AI Digital Mixer & Audio Interface | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2AI Digital Mixer emerges as a comprehensive, flexible option for both studio and live sound applications. Praised for its seamless integration with other devices through Active Integration, it offers an impressive user experience with the intuitive UC Surface software. Its sound quality, featuring Class-A mic preamps and extensive DSP power, is commendable, although the lack of motorized faders and DAW automation might be drawbacks for some users. The mixer’s robust build and affordability, along with its adaptable ecosystem, make it a strong contender in the digital mixer market, despite a few workflow limitations.

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Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2AI Digital Mixer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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rflob

rflob

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