Using a small format mixer is now a very viable option with plenty of acoustic artists as well as podcasters opting to use these devices.
If you are considering getting one, this review will go over the Soundcraft Signature 12MTK and everything you need to know before you consider getting it!
If you are looking for a high-quality track mixer, and want to know if this device fits the bill, keep reading to see if this will be a good choice for you!
Features
- It is a 12-input analog mixer with a small format as well as a USB interface, fit for modern use
- Features 20 onboard lexicon effects
- Has Ghost mic preamps x8 as well as good low-noise performance
- Has a 14-in and 12-out audio interface for multitrack recording
- Has switchable Hi Z inputs
- Has dbx limiters on 2 of the input channels
- Uses 60 mm faders
- Sturdy build made with metal
- Has 2 mono and 1 stereo subgroups
- Weighs 6 kilograms
- Premium quality faders
Overview
In recent years, analog mixers have regained their popularity, and because of this, there are now much more choices than there previously were.
Since the quality of tools like this is so important for sound production, we understand that people want to know exactly what they are getting when they invest in these devices, especially since they usually are not cheap.
People want a good analog mixing board for a couple of main reasons: to have good quality gear that deliver extraordinary audio quality in their signal chain and because the popularity of analog synths is increasing.
Live playing has become increasingly popular with video blogging and podcasting. As a result, having live control over sound production has become more important. These specific methods have also made small mixers regain their popularity.
However, when looking at the Soundcraft Signature 12 MTK, we can see this is a much larger format mixer.
This analog mixer is designed with modernity in mind, making it a breeze to work with. For instance, the inclusion of USB interfacing simplifies things for the sound engineer.
Because of this, it is worth looking into the quality of this device and exploring how useful it could be.
The Range
Before getting into the specifics of the Soundcraft Signature 12 MTK, it is worth looking into Soundcraft’s Signature range so you can know if you are picking the right model.
The Soundcraft Signature 12 MTK has a wide dynamic range. There are 6 different models in this range, and out of these models, there are different variants available.
There are 4 standard types that are categorized by the type of input channel they have: 22, 16, 12, and 10.
All of these will feature the Soundcraft preamps, as well as British EQ and Lexicon effects, on top of the 2-in and 2-out USB interfaces.
There are then two variations: the 12 MTK which we are talking about here and the 22 MTK which has an increased USB input as well as outputs too.
The Specs
The Soundcraft Signature 12 MTK specs are pretty similar to their other release, the Soundcraft Ui 16. The Ui 16 is a live mixer with an interface and some awesome features that likewise produce great sound.
Similar to the previous mixer, the Soundcraft Signature range all come with specific features. This includes the aforementioned Lexicon effects, modulation, delays, as well as reverbs.
All of these features are especially useful considering that this is a live mixer. On top of this, there is also dbx limiting featured on both channels 1 and 2, which is not subtle, but definitely appreciated.
Product Overview
- This product features inputs that can switch between the analog and USB. This also features the aforementioned ghost preamps and the hi-pass filters.
- There is the EQ which is 3 band which has sweepable mids, as well as the ‘British’ EQ which is a nice bonus.
- There is Aux 1 through 3, with 1 and 2 connecting to any external gear, and Aux 3 connecting to any onboard effects.
- There are the Lexicon effects which include 10 separate reverb effects as well as 10 different modulation/delay effects. There are also 2 parameter dials.
- Then there are the Hi-Z inputs which are also switchable, these will allow you to directly connect any instruments like basses or guitars.
- The mixer also has connections that let you connect any headphone output or Aux, as well as an input plug for a footswitch.
- The mixer has simple Aux rooting which will give you buttons to use for both pre as well as post levels
- There is another section for the effects which will let you access the 2 common parameters which are adjustable on this section.
- The MTK model specifically has a USB socket that can be used as an insert or return for i/p channels.
- There is the USB return just on the MTK which will break up the analog signal path, and then displace it with USB audio.
Getting Up And Running
As mentioned in the features, this mixer is incredibly sturdy, so you won’t have to worry about it breaking. The only concern may be its weight, as it is 6kg.
They are great for keeping on a desk and staying in one place, however, if you want to travel to live venues worldwide, you will need to take their weight into account or simply opt for a more travel-friendly alternative.
Luckily getting this mixer to be set up as an interface is also super easy so you will not have to worry about this aspect.
Mixers like this have the advantage of being a USB interface, making them easier to work with and learn than interfaces that require extra inputs or power cable just to get started with mixing.
Using a rack interface is definitely preferable for various reasons and takes up significantly less room. However, having a more hands-on approach is also a strong preference.
It should be mentioned that the USB and analog rooting is all incredibly easy to work with on this mixer. The options for returns per channel make it a breeze to switch between interfacing and summing.
The smooth and rounded EQ section on the mixer was something we really loved. It allows for perfectly equalizing any vocal and instrumental element in any mix. It’s not a subtle effect, but it allows for both accuracy, exceptional resolution, and creativity in our work.
You can achieve a solid sound with the effect you’re using, and the mid-sweep is a great addition to it.
You are given the choice of 22 effects to use on Aux 3, with the first and second being used for adding any external effects or letting you connect to a monitor which is perfect for use on stage.
You are given the ability to choose between effects by dialing on the rotary which is FX type, and then you can just press it.
The mixer has two primary parameters that are controlled using the Dly/Mod and the Reverb rotaries.
These parameters are the number of repeats and the delay time for the delays, the mod depth or speed for the modulations, and the delay or decay time for the reverb.
Using these effects is incredibly simple and all sound surprisingly clean.
Then there is the ghost mic which has pres on 8 of the channels and offers an iconic Soundcraft sound as they are based on the now iconic Ghost brand mixing range that the company offers.
These LEDs have an ultra low noise level when used on low settings, translating to an exceptional signal-to-noise ratio. As a result, they will indicate when the mixer is in use and powered on due to their ability to operate quietly.
When it comes to using an analog mixer, if you want a simple and clean experience, you will be hard-pressed to find a better alternative than the Soundcraft Signature 12 MTK.
Summary
For what you are paying, getting the Soundcraft Signature 12 MTK, or the non-MTK version, are both great products, and the amount of value and great features you get for such a well-made and durable product is incredibly impressive.
If you are using an analog set up in any capacity, this mixer will be perfect for linking everything together, and then connecting this to any digital setup you may need to connect to.
The Soundcraft Signature 12 MTK also works amazingly well as a live sound mixer with the effects placed on the output being incredibly usable and clean.
We prefer the MTK over the non-MTK version because of the added USB multitracking which is added as well as the capability to add your plugins or extra input channels.
