The FP42 4-channel Stereo Mixer by Shure

The Shure FP42 Portable Stereo Mixer is a professional 4-channel portable audio mixer designed for broadcast, film, and location recording. Manufactured by Shure, it became a popular field mixer during the 1990s and early 2000s for ENG and documentary production. The unit provides high-quality microphone preamps, balanced inputs/outputs, and precise level control for multiple sources. Its compact metal chassis and battery operation make it suitable for portable field use. The FP42 supports both mono and stereo mixing with pan controls, allowing flexible routing for cameras or recorders. Because of its reliability and clean audio path, it remains widely used in vintage and backup field-recording setups.

Specs:

• Type: Portable 4-channel stereo field mixer
• Inputs: 4 balanced XLR microphone/line inputs
• Input gain: Adjustable with individual trim and level controls
• Phantom power: 48 V phantom power available for condenser microphones
• Output: Balanced XLR main outputs (left/right)
• Additional outputs: Tape output (TA3 or 3.5 mm depending on revision)
• Frequency response: approx. 20 Hz – 20 kHz (±1 dB)
• Equivalent input noise: approx. –128 dBu (mic level)
• Maximum output level: approx. +18 dBu
• Limiters: Built-in peak limiters on the main outputs
• Metering: LED peak meters for left/right channels
• Pan controls: Per-channel pan for stereo placement
• Power supply: Internal 9 V batteries (2×) or external DC supply
• Construction: Rugged metal chassis for field use
• Typical applications: ENG, film sound, broadcast, location recording