Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 10 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
3.0 (20)
$499.99
Amazon
4.3 (186)
$499.99 New
$449.00 Used (Like New)
Reverb
5.0 (1)
$499.99 New
$379.99 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$499.99
zZounds
2.0 (3)
$524.99 $499.99 $25.00 · All time low
B&H
4.5 (2)
$499.99
Thomann
4.6 (61)
$458.00 $449.00 $9.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£428.00

Average Price: $493

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$200

$1001+

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Based on price data from 7 merchants for "PreSonus StudioLive AR12c Mixer and Audio Interface with Effects". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Dive into the heart of your music creation with the PreSonus StudioLive AR12c Mixer and Audio Interface with Effects. This compact powerhouse streamlines your workflow, whether you're laying down tracks in the studio, mixing live, or producing a podcast. The StudioLive AR12c is built to cater to musicians seeking quality without complexity, combining the warmth of analog with the precision of digital technology. Its user-friendly interface ensures you spend more time making music and less time navigating menus.

Featuring PreSonus' renowned Class A preamps and versatile connectivity, this mixer brings clarity and character to your recordings. With a 24-bit, 96 kHz, USB-C audio interface, achieving professional-quality recordings has never been easier. Plus, the integrated SD digital recorder adds a layer of convenience for capturing ideas quickly. Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity opens up a world of wireless possibilities, from streaming backing tracks to integrating mobile devices seamlessly into your workflow.

The StudioLive AR12c isn’t just about great sound; it’s about enhancing your creative process. Its straightforward layout, combined with powerful effects and the included Studio Magic plug-in suite, provides a comprehensive solution for any project. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting, the StudioLive AR12c is designed to inspire creativity and elevate your music production to new heights.

Key Features:

  • Class A preamps for crystal-clear audio capture
  • 14x4 24-bit/96 kHz, USB-C audio interface for high-quality recordings
  • Integrated SD digital recorder for quick and easy capture
  • Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless streaming and connectivity
  • 4 mono and 4 stereo channels, each with comprehensive controls and 3-band EQ
  • Super Channel (Ch. 13/14) with multiple input options, including Bluetooth
  • Stereo effects processor with 16 presets for adding depth to your mix
  • Includes Studio Magic Plug-in Suite, offering over $1000 in free software

Owner's manual

PreSonus StudioLive AR12c Mixer and Audio Interface with Effects User Manual

Product specs

Type Analog Mixer with USB Interface
Channels 12
Computer Connectivity USB (14 x 4)
A/D Resolution 24-bit/96kHz
Faders 13 x 60mm
Inputs - Mic Preamps 8 x XLR
Phantom Power Global
Inputs - Line 1 x Dual RCA Stereo, 1 x 1/8" (stereo), 2 x 1/4" (line), 8 x 1/4" (4 x stereo pair)
Inputs - Other 2 x 1/4" (Hi-Z/line)
Outputs - Main 2 x XLR (main), 2 x 1/4" TRS (control room)
Aux Sends 2 x Aux (pre), 1 x FX (post)
Send/Return I/O 2 x 1/4" (aux send), 1 x 1/4" (FX send)
Inserts 2 x 1/4" (channel)
Headphones 1 x 1/4" TRS
USB 1 x USB-C 2.0
Bluetooth v5.0
Other I/O 1 x 1/4" (footswitch)
EQ Bands Low/High Shelving, Semi-parametric Mid, 100Hz Highpass
Effects 8 x Reverbs, 6 x Delays, Chorus, Chorus/Reverb
Storage SD/SDHC Card Slot (2 x 2)
Features Metro remote-control (UC 4.2)
Software Studio Magic Plug-in Suite, Studio One Artist, Presonus Capture, UC Surface
OS Requirements - Mac OS X 10.11.6 or later, 64-bit
OS Requirements - PC Windows 7 SP1 or later, 64-bit
Power Source Standard IEC AC cable
Height 3.5"
Width 15" (chassis)
Depth 15.6"
Weight 11.9 lbs.

FAQs

How many channels can the PreSonus StudioLive AR12c record simultaneously?

The PreSonus StudioLive AR12c can record up to 14 channels simultaneously via its USB interface, making it suitable for capturing multi-track recordings.

Does the PreSonus StudioLive AR12c support Bluetooth connectivity?

Yes, the PreSonus StudioLive AR12c features Bluetooth v5.0 connectivity, allowing you to wirelessly stream audio from compatible devices directly to the mixer.

What kind of effects are included with the PreSonus StudioLive AR12c?

The PreSonus StudioLive AR12c includes a range of built-in effects, such as 8 reverbs, 6 delays, and modulation effects like chorus and chorus/reverb, providing versatile options for sound enhancement.

Is the PreSonus StudioLive AR12c compatible with DAW software?

Yes, the PreSonus StudioLive AR12c is compatible with popular DAWs and comes with Studio One Artist and the Studio Magic Plug-in Suite for enhanced production capabilities.

What are the main output options on the PreSonus StudioLive AR12c?

The PreSonus StudioLive AR12c offers main outputs via 2 x XLR connectors and 2 x 1/4" TRS control room outputs, providing flexible connectivity for various audio setups.

PreSonus Audio Electronics

PreSonus Audio Electronics

StudioLive AR Mixers: Overview and Recording to SD Card

Video thumbnail for StudioLive AR Mixers: Overview and Recording to SD Card by PreSonus Audio Electronics

StudioLive AR Mixers: Overview and Recording to SD Card

PreSonus Audio Electronics

PreSonus Audio Electronics

Video thumbnail for 5 Things to Love About the StudioLive ARc Hybrid Mixers/Audio Interfaces by PreSonus Audio Electronics

5 Things to Love About the StudioLive ARc Hybrid Mixers/Audio Interfaces

PreSonus Audio Electronics

PreSonus Audio Electronics

Video thumbnail for PreSonus Studiolive ARc series mixers - Gearslutz @ NAMM 2020 by Gearspace Forum

PreSonus Studiolive ARc series mixers - Gearslutz @ NAMM 2020

Gearspace Forum

Gearspace Forum

Reviews

PROS

  • Improved pre-amps provide clean signal with no audible noise

  • Crystal clear sound for bass guitar input, superior to dedicated amps

  • Good sound quality for stereo line-in inputs

  • Super channel is useful for non-serious work and extra channel use

  • Great build quality with durable controls and faders

  • Includes professional DAW and a wide array of plugins

  • Direct connection to Studio One Professional 5.0 DAW for seamless recording

  • USB to PreSonus Capture software integration for versatile recording options

  • Bluetooth connectivity for convenient wireless streaming

  • Onboard SD card recording functionality

CONS

  • Pre-fader signal from condenser microphones is weak even at maximum gain

  • Requires maximum instrument volume and +10dB boost for adequate line-in levels

  • Noticeable noise floor with Bluetooth 5 connection

  • No option to send post-fader signal to DAW, limiting mixing flexibility

  • Occasional disconnection issues requiring reboots during recording sessions

  • Multi-track recording limitations with certain DAWs

  • USB-C port design can be fragile and confusing, risking damage

  • Installation of DAW and plugins is time-consuming and requires additional software/accounts

  • Warranty period of only 12 months may not cover potential early failures

  • Reports of clicking noise in monitor/aux outputs and headphone jacks, indicating durability issues

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about PreSonus StudioLive AR12c Mixer and Audio Interface with Effects.

Features and functionality

  • The StudioLive AR12c has only channel inserts on channels 1 and 2, limiting flexibility for adding outboard gear across all channels.

    Source
  • The PFL button acts like an AFL, making it challenging to use the meters as intended during live performance.

    Source
  • The mixer has three Aux sends, but only one is post-fade and dedicated to FX, restricting options for dry signal routing.

    Source
  • The StudioLive AR12c can only record the stereo mix on-board, but integrates seamlessly with the StudioLive DAW for expanded functionality.

    Source

Build quality

  • Faders extend into the board's labeling area when down, complicating input labeling during live events.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Bluetooth connectivity is unreliable for critical events like corporate gigs due to intermittent cutouts.

    Source
  • The AR12c is noted for its home studio suitability, offering multitrack capabilities essential for finalizing projects in DAWs like Ableton.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Presonus StudioLive AR12c is limited to applying a single effect at a time, unlike the Soundcraft 12 MTK which allows ganging of two effects.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the StudioLive AR12c for its smooth DAW integration, though it lacks the on-board multitrack recording found in other models like the Tascam Model 12.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

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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 StudioLive AR12c Mixer and Audio Interface with Effects, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1

Community setups

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commuter

commuter

Gear IQ 384

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Gear IQ 384

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