®

MixPre-6
Audio Recorder | Mixer | USB Audio Interface

User Guide
Legal Notices Revision History
Product specifications and features are subject to This table provides the revision history for this guide.
change without prior notification.
Rev# Date Firmware Description
Copyright © 2017 Sound Devices, LLC.
Version
All rights reserved.
1-A April 2017 v1.00 Initial release
This product is subject to the terms and conditions of
1-B April 2017 v1.00 Fixed some doc
a end-user license agreement provided in this guide,
errors & added File
and may be used in accordance with the license
Transfer information
agreement.
1-C April 2017 v1.00 Specs updated
This document is protected under copyright law. An
authorized licensee of this product may reproduce 1-D May 2017 v1.00 Fixed a few doc
this publication for the licensee’s own personal use. errors
This document may not be reproduced or distrib- 1-E May 2017 v1.00 Made more edits in
uted, in whole or in part, for commercial purposes, Inputs & USB chap-
such as selling copies or providing educational ser- ters, Appendix &
vices or support. Specs
This document is supplied as a technical guide. Spe- 1-F June 2017 v1.11 Fixed USB specs info
cial care has been taken in preparing the information
for publication; however, since product specifications
are subject to change, this document might contain
omissions and technical or typographical inaccura-
cies. Sound Devices, LLC does not accept responsi-
bility for any losses due to the user of this guide.
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MixPre-6 User Guide • June 26, 2017

This document is distributed by Sound Devices, LLC
in online electronic (PDF) format only. E-published
in the USA.

Sound Devices, LLC

E7556 Road 23 and 33
www.sounddevices.com Reedsburg, Wisconsin 53959 USA

support@sounddevices.com Direct: +1 (608) 524-0625

Toll Free: (800) 505-0625
Fax: +1 (608) 524-0655
 

Table of Contents
Intro

Powering
Flexible Powering Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Panels
Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Right Side Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Left Side Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Back Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Touch Screen
Home Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Channel Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Main Menu Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Modes and Presets

Setting the Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Custom Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Basic Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 User Presets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Advanced Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Inputs
Channel Inputs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Selecting Input Sources for Ch. 5 & 6. . . 21
Inputs Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Configuring Aux In Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Outputs
Stereo Outs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Headphone Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Metering
LEDs and Meter Views. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Recording and Playback

Formatting SD Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Record Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Transport Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

USB
USB Audio Interface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 USB Keyboard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Low-latency Monitoring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 USB-C Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
USB File Transfer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Timecode
Timecode Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Time of Day (TOD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
HDMI TC In. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Timecode Frame Rate Auto-Detection . . . . 36
Aux In 1, Aux In 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Timecode Stamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

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User Guide

Files Projects
File Name Format. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Undo, Trash File. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Naming a Recording. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Projects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Track Names and Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Remote Control
Wingman Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Linear Timecode (LTC) Record Trigger . . . . 45
Connecting to a MixPre Recorder . . . . . . 44 Keyboard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
HDMI Record Trigger. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 USB Keyboard Shortcuts . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Appendix A
Basic/Advanced Mode Differences . . . . . . . 47 System Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Specifications
Audio Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Timecode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Audio Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Recorder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
USB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Environmental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Touch Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Dimensions and Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Glossary of Terms
Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Software License

FCC Compliance Statement

4
Intro

Hello and thank you for buying the MixPre-6! At Sound Devices, we are freaks
about audio. We’ve unleashed our design and engineering team (most of
whom are musicians) and let them create a device that we want to own our-
selves. We think that you’ll find the unique mix of performance, ease-of-use,
design and build quality to be an invaluable part of your life and creative pas-
sion for many years to come.
The MixPre-6 has been meticulously-engineered to offer extreme flexibility and
sound quality, operating in three basic ways:
• 6 mic/line input (4 mic/line XLR/TRS input + 2ch Aux input), 2 channel
output mixer with our exclusive Kashmir™ discrete mic preamplifiers with
user-selectable analog limiters and low-cut filters.
• SD card recording and playback of individual channels and the main mix
simultaneously at 44.1, 48, 96 and 192kHz, 16 and 24-bit files.
• 8-in, 4-out USB computer audio interface
The possible uses for the MixPre-6 are virtually unlimited, but a few common
ones might be:
• Paired with a DSLR camera recording high-quality audio for video, complete
with timecode and HDMI record triggering.
• Podcast or music recording using up to six high-quality voice-over micro-
phones (or other sources) interfacing via USB to a computer.
• Stand-alone audio recorder for House-of-Worship, mixing a direct feed from
the PA system with a stereo feed of ambient congregational response, sing-
ing and music from a stereo microphone.
The MixPre-6’s application flexibility is augmented by the various powering
options. Whether you wish to power the MixPre-6 from a USB connection, AA
batteries, L-mount batteries or an optional AC wall plug adapter, it’s ready, will-
ing and able to go anywhere, anytime - always handling your audio needs with
grace.
We’ve designed the MixPre-6 to be easy to use for the novice without taking
away truly professional-level features for the seasoned pro user. With that in
mind, the MixPre-6 ships from the factory in Basic mode - this is ideal for less
experienced users and will satisfy the majority of audio applications. If you
want to dive straight into the full array of professional features, we recommend
setting to Advanced mode. See Modes and Presets for more information.
We sincerely hope that you enjoy working with the MixPre-6 as much as we’ve
enjoyed creating it! Please drop us an email at support@sounddevices.com and
share your experiences as we’d love to see how the MixPre-6 is furthering your
passion!

5
User Guide

6
Powering

Flexible Powering Options

In designing the MixPre-6, we felt that it was important for it to be able to
operate in a wide array of applications and environments. To support that goal,
power can be supplied from several possible sources. Some possible powering
scenarios are:

• Four AA alkaline or NiMH rechargeable batteries installed in the provided

4-AA battery sled.
• Eight AA alkaline or NiMH rechargeable batteries installed in the optional
8-AA battery sled accessory.
• One or two Sony-type L-mount batteries installed in the optional L-mount
battery sled accessory.
• USB-C to USB-C cable connected to a USB-C host computer or AC wall
adapter.
• USB-A to USB-C cable connected to a USB-A host computer or AC wall
adapter.
• Dual USB-A to USB-C cable (included) connected to a USB-A host computer.
Use this cable option if your computer is unable to provide adequate power
for the MixPre-6 with only one USB-A port.
• Optional MX-CHARGE AC wall adapter to USB-C power supply.

The master power switch for the MixPre-6 is located in the upper right corner of
the left side panel.
Power Switch

To preserve battery power, USB-C power sources take priority over batteries if
both are connected with one exception - if the USB-C power source does not
meet the full power requirements of the MixPre-6, you can choose to power
from battery or continue to power from USB-C. We have designed the MixPre-6
so that even with an under powered USB-C source, you will still be able to use

7
User Guide
two of the four channels with 48V phantom mics. The third and fourth channel
can still be used with dynamic mics and line, aux, or USB sources. To achieve
this we automatically do the following:
• Dim LCD and LED Brightness
• Disable USB-A port
• Disable HDMI TC port

For protection against accidental loss of power (not something you particularly
want to happen during recording), the MixPre-6 incorporates circuitry to
automatically switch over from USB-C to batteries if the USB-C power source
accidentally gets pulled.

8
Panels

Front Panel
Power light, Recorder transport controls, Star (*) button, Channel knobs,
Channel knob ring LEDs, Touch screen
Star Button Recorder Transport Controls
Power Light

Channel Knobs LCD

Channel Knob Ring LEDs

Left Side Panel

USB connections, XLR/¼-inch TRS inputs 1-2, 3.5mm stereo output, Power
switch
USB-A Port USB-C Port Power Switch

XLR/TRS Inputs 3.5 mm Stereo Output

9
User Guide

Right Side Panel

3.5mm headphone output, 3.5mm Mic/Aux input, XLR/¼-inch TRS inputs 3-4,
Headphone encoder, micro HDMI TC input
3.5 mm Headphone Output 3.5 mm Aux/Mic Input XLR/TRS Inputs

HP Encoder Micro HDMI TC Input

Back Panel
Battery mounts, SD memory card slot, Allen wrench (for ¼-inch-20-thread
captive screw), anti-rotational pin
Battery Mounts

Allen wrench & Anti-rotational Pin SD Card Slot

10
Touch Screen

The MixPre-6 has a sunlight-viewable, high-resolution, touch-screen-based user

interface. The touch-screen interface consists of the Home screen, Main Menu
screen, and Channel screen views. As you will notice, there are several touch
zones on the touch screen for controls. As you become familiar with the user
interface, changing settings for inputs, outputs, recording and metering will
become fast and intuitive.
Current File Name
File List Icon Power Status Icon
Menu Icon
Time Counter

Meter View

SD Card Remaining Record Time Current Headphone Preset

Home Screen
The Home screen view is the default view that appears on the touch screen
when the device is powered up. On it, you will find items such as:
• File list icon and current file name
• File elapsed time counter (timecode if LTC or HDMI timecode is enabled)
• Power status icon
Power Status Icon Description
USB power source is ideal.
(Green USB)
USB power source low. Brightness dimmed, HDMI & USB-A
ports disabled, 48v phantom on 2 channels only.
(Orange USB)
Healthy battery. Plan to change batteries when green level
drops to about ¼ full.
(Green Battery)
Battery power is critically low. Change batteries.
(Flashing Red Battery)
• Menu icon
• Meter view (cycle views by touching)
◦ Two channel mix track meters
◦ Two channel mix track meters, six individual track view
◦ Two channel mix track meters, two USB input meters, two aux input
(camera) meters

11
User Guide
• Status bar
◦ SD card available recording time
◦ Headphone preset
◦ Sample rate and bit depth
◦ Date and time

Main Menu Screen

The Menu screen is where most of the features and functions are selected and
set up.

To enter the Menu screen:

XX Tap on the Home screen.

There are three Menu screen views. These views are indicated by the Dots icon
. Tapping it will toggle between the three Menu views.

The Menu has its own submenus that may be displayed by tapping them.

To return to the main Menu from a submenu at any time:

XX Tap .

To return directly to the Home screen from the main Menu:

XX Tap .

12
 TOUCH SCREEN
Page Sub-menu Description
1 Presets Lets you save and recall preset user settings to and from SD cards
and internal memory. Also allows resetting all settings to factory
default.
1 Project Provides the ability to create new, open and trash existing projects.
1 Inputs Provides settings for the Aux/Plug-in-power Mic/Timecode input/
Camera, as well as access to Channel screens for channels 5 and 6.
1 Outputs* Provides routing and gain settings for the stereo output.
2 Timecode *
Lets you select timecode mode.
2 Tone Provides test tone settings.
2 Record** Provides record settings for LR mix gain, sample rate, bit depth, LR
linking, and HDMI record trigger.
2 SD Card Displays current SD card information and allows for format and
empty trash card functions.
3 Assigns various functions as shortcuts to the * button on the front
* Button panel.
3 Date/Time Sets current date/time and format.
3 System Provides settings for Basic/Advanced/Custom mode, Custom mode
setup, limiters, USB-C, File Transfer, Bluetooth®, Wingman App
password, adjusting LCD/LED brightness, updating firmware, and
viewing version and regulatory information.
3 Power Select the type of batteries being used (Alkaline, NiMH, L-Mount) to
ensure that the Power Status icon on the Home screen accurately
displays remaining battery level.
* Sub-menu/setting appears in Advanced mode only
** Some Record sub-menu options are only available in Advanced mode

Channel Screen
The Channel screen is where you will find channel-specific settings, such as
Channel name, Input selection, Pan, 48v phantom power and Low Cut filtering.

In Advanced mode, additional settings are available via a second channel page
accessed by tapping the Dots icon.
LL The top left corner of the Channel screen displays an editable Channel name.
Touch this region to give the channel an easy to identify name, like Vocals or Bob.
Below the Channel name is a Channel meter to aid in setting audio levels.

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User Guide
Page Sub-menu Description
1 Solo *
Lets you solo the selected channel in the headphone output. Soloing
by default is Individual (exclusive) in that only one input at a time
will be soloed. When a channel is soloed, its light ring will flash
orange. Soloing can be set to Multiple (non-exclusive) in the HP
Preset submenu.
1 Arm* Allows pre-fade recording of the channel to its own isolated (ISO)
track on the SD card.
1 Gain* Sets the sensitivity of the input. Generally, the gain should be set
so that the loudest parts of the audio signal just touch the red
segments of the meters.
1 Pan Lets you position the channel’s audio in the stereo image of the LR
mix and stereo out.
2 Input Lets you select one of the available Mic, Line, or USB inputs to route
to the chosen channel.
2 Phantom Lets you apply full 48v phantom power to the channel’s mic or line
input.
2 Low Cut Sometimes referred to as a high pass filter (HPF), the Low Cut filter
can be set up to roll off bass frequencies or reduce mic handling
noise, wind noise, and other undesirable low frequencies. The filter
has a carefully crafted 18 dB/octave slope.
2 Phase* Allows the signal’s phase to be inverted 180 degrees.
3 Delay *
Inserts an adjustable delay in the signal path. Often used for phase
alignment of multiple mics or lip synchronization for video.
3 Linking* Lets you link channels 1 and 2, and 3 and 4 either as a stereo pair
or mid-side pair. You can also link 5 and 6 as a stereo pair.
* Sub-menu/setting appears in Advanced mode only

To enter the Channel screen:

XX Press the associated Channel knob.

LL You can access Channel screens for channels 5 and 6 via sub-menu options in
Menu > Inputs, or by using the Star (*) button, when Menu > * Button is set to
Ch 5/6 Screen Toggle.

14
Modes and Presets

Setting the Mode

We’ve designed the MixPre-6 to be easy to use for the novice without taking
away truly professional-level features for the seasoned pro user. We want both
the newcomer and the career professional to enjoy a quick, easy setup and
foolproof results. To accommodate this, we’ve incorporated three modes of
operation into the MixPre-6: Basic, Advanced, and Custom.

To set the mode:

1. Turn all channel knobs to Off (at full counter-clockwise position).

2. Tap .
3. Tap System > Mode. Options include: Basic, Advanced, and Custom.

Basic Mode
Basic mode is intended for hassle-free, plug-and-play use. This mode is ideal
for the new user and amateur needing only the basic functionality of the
MixPre-6.
Screen Sub-menu Description
Menu Presets Save and load user presets to and from SD card and internal
memory. Also allows resetting all settings to factory default.
Menu Project Create new projects, or open and trash existing projects.
Menu Inputs Provides settings for the 3.5 mm Aux/Mic In, as well as access
to the Channel screen for channels 5 and 6.
Menu Timecode Select Time of Day or HDMI TC from a DSLR as timecode
source. Off is also an option.
Menu Tone Turn the test tone on or off. By default, the test tone is a 1kHz
sine wave at -20dBFS.
Menu Record Choose to auto start/stop recording via HDMI from a DSLR.
Menu SD Card Displays SD card info and allows for formatting SD cards and
and emptying their trash folder.
Menu Date/Time Sets current date/time and format.
Menu System Provides settings for Basic/Advanced/Custom mode, Custom
mode setup, limiters, USB-C, File Transfer, Bluetooth®,
Wingman App password, adjusting LCD/LED brightness,
updating firmware, and viewing version and regulatory
information.
Menu Power Select the type of batteries being used (Alkaline, NiMH,
L-Mount) to ensure that the Power Status icon on the Home
screen accurately displays remaining battery level.
Menu HP Preset Select LR Stereo or USB 1,2 or USB 3,4 as headphone sources.

15
User Guide
Screen Sub-menu Description
Channel Pan Pan the channel’s signal Left, Center or Right in the stereo LR
mix and Stereo Out.
Channel Input Select one of the available Mic, Line, Aux (only available when
Aux In Mode is Mic or Line) or USB inputs to route to the
selected channel.
Channel Phantom Turn on 48V phantom power when using a condenser
microphone in the selected channel.
Channel Low Cut Select the frequency at which a low cut filter will be placed.
The filter has a carefully-crafted 18db/octave slope. Low Cut
options are only On/Off in Basic mode.

Advanced Mode
Advanced mode is intended for use by professionals and users who wish to have
every available setting and option at their disposal. All settings available to
Basic Mode apply to Advanced Mode in addition to:
Screen Sub-menu Description
Menu Outputs Provides routing and gain settings for the Stereo Out.
Menu Tone Provides additional Tone mode (Continuous and Left Identify)
and Tone Level settings.
Menu Record Provides additional record settings for gain, sample rate, bit
depth and LR linking.
Menu HP Preset Provides additional HP presets for LR Mono, User Presets 1-4,
Edit HP Preset utility and HP Solo mode selection. Camera
Stereo and Camera Mono are also available when Aux In Mode
is set to Camera.
Menu System > Lets you turn limiters on or off.
Limiters
Channel Solo Lets you “solo” the selected channel in the headphone output.
Solo mode can be set to Individual or Multiple in the HP Preset
menu. When a channel is soloed, its light ring will flash
orange.
Channel Arm Allows pre-fade recording of the channel to an individual track
on the SD card.
Channel Gain Sets the sensitivity of the input. Generally, the Gain should be
set so that the loudest parts of the audio signal just touch the
red segments of the meters.
Channel Pan Lets you position the audio of the channel anywhere between
Left and Right in the stereo image of the LR mix and Stereo
Out.
Channel Linking Lets you link channels 1 and 2, and 3 and 4 either as a stereo
pair, mid side pair, or turn linking off. Channels 5 and 6 can
also be linked as a stereo pair.

16
 MODES AND PRESETS

Custom Mode
Custom mode is intended for users who want to customize the features and
functionality available to them. This mode grants access to different sections of
Advanced Mode features, turning them on or off in the user interface as desired.

To configure Custom Setup:

1. Tap .
2. Tap System > Mode, and then select Custom.
3. Tap System > Custom Setup to customize what features you want to
access.
Custom Setup options are:
Page Sub-menu Description
1 Channel Lets you access Solo, Track Arm, extended Pan, Input Select,
Phantom, Phase, delay, and Low Cut, which is selectable by
frequency.
1 Gain Lets you access to (two-stage) Channel Gain controls, limiters
and linking.
1 Headphone Lets you access extended headphone source select options
including factory and user headphone presets, preset editing
and Solo setup for Individual/Multiple channels.
1 Record Provides additional record settings for gain, sample rate, bit
depth and LR arming/linking, as well as ISO track arming/
naming.
2 Metadata Adds ability to change track name, rename files, add notes and
undo recordings.
2 Outputs Provides routing and gain settings for the Stereo Out, as well
as Tone mode and level.

User Presets
Flexibility is the MixPre-6’s M.O. To make it easy for you to use the MixPre-6 in
a wide variety of situations, we created a slick feature where you can store and
recall snapshots of all of the MixPre-6’s settings. There are four internal Preset
slots available. Also, the SD card can store virtually unlimited Presets.
Here are three common examples:
• You might want to use the MixPre-6 as recorder, mixer, and USB audio
interface in a podcasting rig with specific microphones.
• The next day, you need to have the MixPre-6 handle audio duties for you
while you’re shooting video on your DSLR camera.
• On Sunday, you might need to use your trusty MixPre-6 to record worship
services, mixing a direct line from the PA with a stereo microphone feed.
Using Presets, you can optimize settings for each of these scenarios and then
simply save each setup to one of four internal preset locations or to the SD

17
User Guide
card. Once saved, simply load the appropriate preset and BOOM! You’re ready
to go in a jiffy! We think that you’ll really appreciate this functionality.

To save a Preset:

1. Tap .
2. Tap Presets > Save to Internal 1-4 or SD Card
3. Enter a Preset Name and tap OK.

To recall a Preset

1. Tap .
2. Tap Presets > Load Preset.
3. Select preset with encoder.
4. Tap OK.

18
Inputs

The MixPre-6’s flexibility is enhanced by its ability to select various input types
to it’s mixer channels. Each of the MixPre-6’s channels can be sourced from
an XLR mic/line input, 3.5mm Aux or PiP (Plug in Power) Mic input or from USB
channels 1-4 from a computer.

Channel Inputs
BASIC MODE -
For quick and easy applications, access the channel’s input settings by
pushing the desired channel’s channel knob. You will see the Channel
screen displayed.

There, you’ll be able to select the channel input source, whether you’d like
to send the audio to the Left, Center or Right in the mix bus and Stereo
out, select Phantom power (for condenser microphones and active DIs),
and select a Low Cut filter. The MixPre-6’s Kashmir mic preamplifiers have
extreme dynamic range and noise specs as well as analog limiters so it’s
not necessary for you to set any levels other than that of the Channel knob
(which sends the audio to the LR mix record channels and the Stereo Out.
The limiters are present on each channel and the LR mix bus. This means
that peaks that would normally clip other mic preamplifiers and ruin a mix,
will be handled in just the right way to make sure that your audio is safe
from accidental clipping both on the Stereo Outs and the recorder.
ADVANCED MODE -
For more complex situations requiring individual channel-to-track recording,
soloing, channel linking, extended gain functionality, limiter bypass, and
more.

19
User Guide

Are you working with a stereo source—a keyboard or stereo mic perhaps?
To make it easy to adjust these types of sources, the MixPre-6 offers linking
of channel pairs 1-2, 3-4, and 5-6.
For example, the following procedure links channels 1 and 2.

To link channels 1-2:

1. Push the channel knob 1 to access that Channel screen.

2. On page 3, tap Linking.
Do one of the following:
XX Select 1-2 for a stereo source.
XX Select 1-2ms for MS (Mid-Side) source.
You’ll now be able to control the level of both channels 1 and 2 with the
channel 1 knob. The channel 2 knob will now function as a balance control
if stereo linked or as a width control if MS linked.

20
 INPUTS

Inputs Menu
The Inputs menu allows you to access Channel 5 and 6 screens, and the Aux In
Mode settings, which lets you configure how the Aux/Mic In 3.5mm connector is
used.

Selecting Input Sources for Channels 5 and 6

Similar to Channel screens for 1-4, input sources for channels 5 and 6 may be
selected from their screens.
Options are:
• Channel 5: Aux In 1, USB 1 or Off
• Channel 6: Aux In 2, USB 2 or Off
LL From these screens, you may also solo, arm tracks, adjust gain, pan, low cut, and
set linking.

Configuring Aux In Mode

Tap Aux In Mode to select one of the following options:

• Mic: Select this option when the Aux/Mic In is to be used with a plug-in-
power mic.
• Line: Select this option when the Aux/Mic In is to be used with an
unbalanced 2ch line source, such as smartphone headphone output, stereo
line source, etc.
When either the Mic or Line options above are selected as the Aux In Mode,
they are available as input sources to any channel by selecting Aux In 1 or
Aux In 2.
• Camera: Select this option when the Aux/Mic In is to be used for
monitoring a video camera’s audio output via the MixPre-6’s headphones
and C1/C2 meters located on meter view 3.
This is particularly useful when you want to use the MixPre-6 to drastically
improve the sound quality recorded on the DSLR camera. It is common
knowledge that DSLR mic inputs are of poor quality so by connecting your
mics to the MixPre-6 instead, then connecting the MixPre-6’s stereo output
to your camera audio input, you will achieve far superior sound quality.
Then by connecting the camera’s audio output to the MixPre-6’s Aux/Mic In,
it allows you to check that the camera audio is noise and distortion-free.
When this option is selected an additional setting appears in the Input Menu
called Camera Gain. This allows you to adjust the gain of the incoming
camera audio level.
You also gain camera monitoring options in the HP Presets menu.

21
User Guide
• Timecode (only available in Advanced Mode): Select this option when the
Aux/Mic In is to be used as a LTC (linear timecode) input. When selected as
a timecode input, Aux In 1 and Aux In 2 become available as options for TC
Mode (located in Timecode Menu)
LL When Aux In Mode is set to Camera or Timecode, you cannot route Aux In to a
channel and thus you cannot record it.
• Off: Select this option to turn off the Aux/Mic Input.

22
Outputs

While we were carefully thinking about how to maximize flexibility with the
inputs, we were doing the same with the outputs!

Stereo Outs
The Outputs menu is available in Advanced mode and accessed through the
Main Menu. In the Outputs menu, you may send any channel, aux input, USB
input or LR mix to either or both of the Stereo Outs. In addition, if you choose
to send the channels to outputs, you can select either pre-fade (channel knob
has no effect) or post-fade (channel knob controls level). In addition to routing
options, the Outputs sub-menu also provides gain adjustment of the Stereo
Outs.

Headphone Out
The MixPre-6’s audiophile-grade headphone amplifier provides high power and
very low noise performance so that you can accurately hear the audio being
handled, regardless of headphones or environment. Connect headphones
via 3.5mm jack to the headphone jack (located on the right side panel). The
volume of the headphones can be set with the encoder directly adjacent to the
headphone jack.
From the main Menu screen, the headphone presets (HP Presets)
may be accessed by pressing this icon in the upper left corner of the
screen. Above this icon, the currently selected HP preset is displayed.
From the Main Menu, the headphone presets (HP Presets) may be accessed by
pressing this icon in the upper left corner of the screen. Above this icon, the
currently-selected HP preset is displayed.
Entering the HP Presets menu, you may select from LR Stereo, LR Mono,
USB 1,2, USB 3,4 and User Presets 1-4.

LL Options listed here are those available in Advanced mode. Only LR Stereo and
USB 1,2 are available in Basic mode.

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User Guide
There’s an Edit HP Preset utility where User HP presets may be edited and
given custom names and finally a “HP Solo” button where the HP solo mode can
be switched between Individual and Multiple for single or multi-channel solo
monitoring.
Since the headphone amplifier is capable of very high output levels, please
use caution when wearing headphones as hearing damage could result with
inappropriate volume levels.
Combining the input/output flexibility and the User Presets feature, you’ll find
endless uses for the MixPre-6!

24
Metering

LEDs and Meter Views

There are five basic methods for observing input and output meters on the
MixPre-6.
• Channel knob ring LEDs - Each LED ring is capable of displaying green,
orange and red colors. The brightness of the light ring tracks the level of
the input. Green = signal present, red = signal peaking, orange = signal
limiting. In addition, a channel’s ring LED will flash orange when in solo.

LCD
Channel Knob Ring LEDs

• Channel screen meter

• Main LR stereo meter view

25
User Guide
• LR, 1-6 multi-track meter view

• LR, Returns (via Aux In) and USB 1,2 meter view

Switching between the three main meter views is easy—just touch the meters
and cycle through the different views. The meters will show not only signal
levels, but also the current arm status of each track for the recorder and
limiting activity for L,R and each channel.

26
Recording and Playback

The MixPre-6 can record up to eight audio tracks at 192 kHz, 24-bit to SD
cards (SD, SDHC, or SDXC) using the industry standard .WAV file format.
The recorded .WAV files written to SD card can be imported or played back
using any MAC, Windows, or Linux computer installed with a compatible audio
application, such as Pro Tools, Reaper, Cubase, Garageband, Audacity, and
many, many more.
You can mix and record to the SD card even when using the MixPre-6 as a USB
audio interface. This opens up cool opportunities for recording the computer’s
USB audio output and mixing it with other mic and line sources plugged into
the MixPre, making it ideal for podcasting and recording interviews via Skype or
any other VoIP application.
This simultaneous recording/USB audio streaming capability also makes the
MixPre ideal as a backup to a computer—highly desirable in mission critical
applications where relying only on a computer might be a risk.
The recording functionality is dependant on the current operating mode, Basic
or Advanced.
In Basic mode, the MixPre-6 functions as a two-track 48 kHz recorder. The two
record tracks are fed by the LR mix which is driven directly by the channel knob
gains.
In Advanced Mode, the MixPre-6 is configured as a eight-channel recorder with
user-selectable 44.1, 48, 96 and 192 kHz sample rate and 16 and 24bit depth.
The LR mix tracks may be recorded as well as each of the six channels as
individual isolated (ISO) tracks. Audio for the ISO tracks is recorded “prefade”
meaning before the channel knob gain, so any changes that are made there
will only affect the LR mix and have no affect on the recorded ISO track levels.
This is particularly useful for post-production audio processing where it may be
desirable to create an alternate mix of the tracks at a later stage.

Formatting SD Cards
SD cards must be formatted by the MixPre-6 for reliable recording and
playback. Be sure to backup any wanted audio recordings or data on the SD
card before formatting since the formatting process erases all data on the SD
card.
We highly recommend using Sound Devices branded SD cards as these have
been optimized to provide the best performance. If these are not available,
most reputable manufacturers’ cards (such as SanDisk or Delkin) that meet or
exceed class 10 speeds are acceptable.

27
User Guide
To format an SD card:

1. Insert an SD card in the slot located on the rear panel.

2. Tap .
3. Tap SD Card > Edit > Format.
4. When asked to confirm the command to format the card, tap OK.

Cards with a capacity of 32 GB or less will be formatted with the FAT32 file
system. Cards with a capacity greater than 32 GB will be formatted with the
exFAT file system.
LL The exFAT file system is not compatible with Windows XP or Mac OS X 10.6.4 and
lower.

Transport Controls
The three Transport controls (illuminated buttons) on the front panel are used
to perform recording and playback functions.
Function Control Action
Press to begin recording a new file. The button illuminates red
Record while recording is in underway.

While recording, press once to stop recording. While in

Stop playback, press once to stop playback. While in standby,
press and hold to display next take name.

Press to begin playback of the last file recorded or file

currently loaded. The button illuminates green during
Play / Pause playback. While in playback, press once to pause, and press
again to resume playback. Whenever playback is paused, the
button and the current file name will flash green.
While playing or paused, press and hold the headphone
encoder to enter Scrub mode. Then rotate clockwise for fast
Scrub forward or counter-clockwise for rewind at speeds of 0x,
1/8x, 1/4x, 1/2x, 1x, 2x, 4x, 8x and 16x. The audio may be
heard in Scrub mode up to 2x speed.

In Basic mode, only the L/R mix bus will be recorded. Recording is as easy as
pressing the REC button. Push the Play button to play back files and the Stop
button to stop Recording or Playback. Pushing the Play button while in Play
mode, will initiate Pause mode. The Play button as well as the active file in the
display will flash to indicate that Pause is active.
In Advanced Mode, all channels as well as the L/R mix bus may be recorded
individually. The channel must be “armed” to record individual channels as ISO
tracks.

28
 RECORDING AND PLAYBACK
To arm a channel:

1. Press the channel knob.

2. Tap Arm.

Armed channels are indicated in the meters view with red meter labels
surrounding the channel number. If neighboring channels are stereo linked,
their labels are merged to indicate that they are linked. See Channel Inputs
for more information regarding stereo linking.

Record Menu
In Basic mode, the Rec Trigger function is used to automatically start and stop
recording from a compatible HDMI source, such as a DSLR. This cool feature
lets you simultaneously start recording on a DSLR and the MixPre-6 just by
pressing the Record button on the camera, thus eliminating the possibility of
forgetting to record audio on the MixPre-6—not something that a producer will
take kindly to!
In Advanced mode, there are many more settings available, as shown in the
following table:
Sub-menu Description Options
Rec L,R Mix Arms L and/or R mix buses. • Off
• L
• R
• L&R
• LR Linked
Left Gain Sets the gain for the L mix. • -60 - 0 dB (1 dB increment)
Right Gain Sets the gain for the R mix. • -60 - 0 dB (1 dB increment)
This setting is disabled when Rec L,R Mix is
set to LR Linked.
Sample Rate The internal sample rate and sample rate • 44.1 kHz
of recorded WAV files. • 48 kHz
• 96 kHz
The default is 48kHz.
• 192 kHz
Bit Depth The bit depth of recorded WAV files. • 24
• 16
The default is 24.
Rec Trigger Sets record triggering from either timecode • Off
or HDMI flags. The default is Off. • HDMI flag
• Timecode

29
User Guide

30
USB

USB Audio Interface

The MixPre-6 has an integrated 8-in, 4-out core audio-compatible interface for
use with a Mac or PC computer. For PC users, the MixPre-6 will appear as a 2x2
audio interface unless a specific ASIO driver is installed. The latest ASIO driver
can be downloaded at www.sounddevices.com/support/downloads. See the
MixPre Series Downloads page.

To work with the USB audio from a host computer, it is necessary to route the
USB 1 - 4 sources appropriately. Should you want to mix the USB audio from
the host computer with live audio from the MixPre-6’s inputs to the LR bus, use
the channel screen and select input source (Advanced mode only). To hear the
USB host computer audio in the headphones only, switch the HP preset to USB
1,2 or USB 3,4.

The MixPre-6 is capable of recording and streaming audio to a USB host

simultaneously. The MixPre-6 is also capable of recording the USB audio
stream out of a computer directly to its SD recorder. This is an amazingly-
useful feature for recording any computer-based audio. See the table below
detailing the MixPre-6’s channel to output assignments.
Channel USB Output Assignment
Channel 1 USB stream 1
Channel 2 USB stream 2
Channel 3 USB stream 3
Channel 4 USB stream 4
Channel 5 USB stream 5
Channel 6 USB stream 6
Mix bus L USB stream 7
Mix bus R USB stream 8

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User Guide

Low-latency Monitoring
We’ve worked really hard with our hardware, logic and software design teams to
minimize latency. We’ve found that in many scenarios, latency when monitoring
through a DAW (digital audio workstation) is perfectly acceptable, depending
upon DAW software, computer hardware and plug-ins.
In situations where the throughput latency is higher than desired, the input to
the MixPre-6 can be directly monitored in the headphone output.

To monitor with zero-latency through the MixPre-6:

1. Connect MixPre-6 to computer.

2. Confirm that the “LR Stereo” HP Preset is selected.
3. Select “USB1” for Channel 5 source and Pan L.
4. Select “USB2” for Channel 6 source and Pan R.
5. Connect microphone or other inputs to Channels 1-4.
6. Select the appropriate inputs for Channels 1-4. These will appear to your
computer as USB stream 1-4 respectively.
7. Setup your DAW software for a new track with its source being any
Channels 1-4 and be sure that record monitoring is disabled for these
tracks. (Optionally, you may mute the channel’s output in the DAW).
8. You should now be able to hear and adjust the output of your DAW audio
through Channels 5 and 6 while adjusting your low-latency feed in your
headphones (and send levels to DAW) using the channel 1-4 knobs. Use
channel 5 and 6 knobs to adjust the mix of the DAW audio with channels
1-4 to taste.

USB File Transfer

The MixPre-6 can support USB file transfer between its SD and a USB-
connected host computer. In order to use this feature, it’s necessary to put the
MixPre-6 into File Transfer mode. (USB audio will be suspended.)

To enter File Transfer mode:

1. Tap .
2. Tap System > File Transfer.
3. When file transfer is complete, tap Exit on the USB-C File Transfer Mode
screen to return to the previous operating state.

32
 USB

USB Keyboard
The use of standard USB computer keyboards is supported. When using the
MixPre-6 in situations requiring extensive metadata entry, titling and wired
remote control capability, a USB keyboard may be desirable.
LL Keyboards with an embedded USB hub and Apple brand keyboards are not
compatible. Additionally, some keyboards must be connected only after the
recorder is turned on.

USB-C Mode
When connected to a computer via USB-C, the MixPre-6 may be setup to be
powered from the host without the computer identifying it as an audio interface.

To toggle between the USB-C audio/power modes:

1. Tap .
2. Tap System > USB-C. Options include: Audio and Power Only.

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User Guide

34
Timecode

Timecode Modes
The MixPre-6 is not only a fantastic tool for audio enthusiasts. It was also
conceived for all you video aficionados out there, whether you are a film or
documentary maker or a YouTuber who wants no-compromise audio quality to
go along with their video content.
With that in mind, we have designed-in timecode capability to make it easy
to lip-sync DSLR and other camera video with the MixPre-6’s audio. This is
particularly useful in what is known as ‘double system sound’ applications
where audio is recorded separately from the video camera. In simple video/
audio productions, it is often sufficient to simply use the MixPre-6 as a high
quality mic-preamp/mixer and record the audio on the DSLR into the same
file as the video content. This is known as single system and in this case, the
video and audio are already lip-synced. However, there are often times where
it is very beneficial to record each audio source as a separate isolated (ISO)
track. Access to these ISO tracks allows the ability to clean up and remix audio
sources after the event in post production. To record ISO tracks and sync
them with video from a DSLR, you need a multichannel recorder with built in
timecode support like the MixPre-6.
In the audio for video category, no one does timecode better than Sound
Devices. It’s no surprise that many Oscar winning movies have had their sound
recorded using Sound Devices gear.
For some reason, timecode gets a bad rep as being difficult to understand,
but really it is quite simple. It is basically a time label that runs from 0 to 24
hours and is counted in hours (HH), minutes (MM), seconds (SS), and frames
(FF). A timecode value will look like this - HH:MM:SS:FF. Timecode ranges from
00:00:00:00 to 23:59:59:29, then starts over.
All you have to do to synchronize separate video and audio content is to ensure
that the camera and MixPre-6 are both labeling each moment in time with the
same timecode value. Then in your video editing software, whether it be Final
Cut, Adobe Premiere, or Avid Media Composer, you simply import your separate
audio and video content and match up the timecode numbers (computers are
good at matching up numbers) and “Hey Presto,” you have lip-synced video and
audio.
The MixPre-6 has three timecode modes, HDMI TC In, Aux In 1 or 2, and Time
of Day.

35
User Guide
HDMI TC In

Use a DSLR camera that outputs timecode over its HDMI output connection.
A few examples of cameras that do this are the Sony a7s and Panasonic GH4.
Connect their HDMI output to the HDMI TC In port on the MixPre-6’s right hand
panel and set Menu>Timecode>TC Mode to HDMI TC In. Refer to the camera’s
user guide to determine how to output HDMI timecode from the camera since
all cameras do it in a slightly different way.
When the MixPre-6 receives HDMI timecode, it is displayed on the Home
screen beneath the current filename. Each time you press record, the incoming
timecode value is stored inside the MixPre-6’s WAV file. Most popular video
editing applications will be able to read this timecode value and sync the audio
with the camera video.

Aux In 1, Aux In 2

LTC, otherwise known as SMPTE Linear Timecode is the most common timecode
standard. Many professional cameras and other devices output this format.
This can be received by the MixPre-6 via its Aux/Mic In 3.5mm connector.

To enable Aux In Timecode:

1. Set the Aux In Mode to Timecode (Menu>Inputs>Aux In Mode) - this is only

available in Advanced mode.
2. Set Menu> Timecode>TC Mode> to Aux In 1 or Aux In 2.
When the MixPre-6 receives Aux In timecode, it is displayed on the home
screen beneath the current filename.

Time of Day (TOD)

Use TOD mode, when you want the recorded WAV files to be timecode stamped
with the time of day. The time of day is derived from the MixPre-6’s built-in
date/time clock. This mode is not used for frame accurate synchronization
with external devices. Rather, it is used as simple way of logging what time a
recording took place.

Timecode Frame Rate Auto-Detection

With both the HDMI TC In and Aux In Timecode modes, the MixPre-6 auto-
detects the incoming timecode frame rate and stamps the recorded files
accordingly.

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 TIMECODE

Timecode Stamp
Regardless of which timecode mode you use, each time you press record, the
timecode value at that moment is embedded within the MixPre-6’s WAV file.
Most popular video editing applications will be able to read this timecode value
and sync the audio with the camera video.
For those of you who are curious, WAV files that contain embedded timecode
are called Broadcast WAV files. They are identical to standard WAV files but
contain extra non-audio metadata such as timecode and other descriptive data
about the recording.

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User Guide

38
Files Projects

Each time you press record, the MixPre-6 creates a WAV audio file which can
subsequently be played back on the MixPre or almost any computer audio
application. The MixPre-6 is able to record up to 8 tracks (the stereo mix LR
tracks plus 6 isolated tracks) into a single polyphonic WAV file. Polyphonic
simply refers to the fact that the file contains multiple tracks.

File Name Format

The MixPre-6 makes it easy to identify and organize your recordings (WAV files)
by providing the ability to name them before, during, or after recording.
Each recording’s file name is comprised of a Name (maximum 9 characters),
followed by a dash (-), and then followed by a Number (3 digits). For example:
MIXPRE-001.WAV
Name = MIXPRE
Number = 001

Each time you press record, the Number is incremented.

The Number is reset to 1 whenever you create a new Name.

Naming a Recording

To name a recording:

1. Go to the File List by tapping the top left region of the Home screen.
2. Select a file from the list by using the headphone encoder on the right
panel. Rotate to highlight a file then press the encoder (or touch Edit) to
select it for naming or press the Play button to play it.
LL The File List is in chronological order with most recent recordings at the top of
the list. The row at the very top of the list represents the next file to be recorded.
Selecting this allows you to give a name to the next recording prior to recording
it.

3. Select Name to edit the Name.

4. Select Number to edit the Number.
The Name and Number not only determine the filename of the recording—
they are also embedded inside the WAV file. This is particularly useful
in film and TV production where the data is used to help log and locate
content faster.

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User Guide
In Advanced mode you can also rename a recording.

To rename a recorded file:

XX In the File List, select a file by pressing the encoder, and tap Rename.

Track Names and Notes

In Advanced mode, you also have the option to store track names and notes
inside the WAV file. This is ideal for multitrack recording where you want to
identify what or who is recorded on a particular track and for adding descriptive
notes about the recording that might be useful to an editor at a later stage.

To edit track names and notes:

1. In the File List, select a file and press the encoder

2. Do any of the following:
XX Select Track Names to change track names.
XX Select Name, Num Notes to edit notes.

Undo, Trash File

In Advanced mode, you can undo the last file recorded. Undo moves the last
recorded file to the SD card’s UNDO folder. Files in this folder are accessible
using a computer.

To undo your last recording:

XX In the File List, select a file, press the encoder, and tap Undo.

To trash any file in the File List:

1. In the File List, highlight a file, and tap Edit.

2. Select Trash Take.
Trash File moves the file to the SD card’s TRASH folder. Files in this folder are
accessible using a computer. You can permanently delete files in the SD card’s
TRASH folder from the MixPre’s SD Card menu.

Projects
It is easy to end up with many hundreds of WAV files on a single SD card,
especially as cards can hold many gigabytes of audio data. To help organize
this large number of files, they may be stored in separate folders which, in the
MixPre-6, are known as Projects. For instance, you may want to organize your
recordings based on their type, such as PODCASTS, SONGS, INTERVIEWS,
SOUND FX, NATURE RECORDINGS, etc. Each of these projects would be

40
 FILES PROJECTS
represented by a folder located at the root of the SD card.

To create a new Project:

1. Tap .
2. Tap Project > New and choose to create a custom project name or project
name based on the current date.

To access files or record new files in a previously created project:

1. Tap .
2. Tap Project > Open.
3. Select the required project. This will load the File List with the selected
Project’s files.

To trash a Project:

1. Tap .
2. Tap Project > Trash.
3. Select which project to trash. This moves the selected project and all its
files to the TRASH folder. Projects in this folder are accessible using a
computer.
LL You can permanently delete projects in the SD card’s TRASH folder from the
MixPre’s SD Card sub-menu.

41
User Guide

42
Remote Control

Wingman Application
Sound Devices Wingman is a free app that allows wireless remote control of the
Bluetooth Smart-enabled MixPre Series from iOS devices.

To enable Bluetooth on the MixPre recorder:

1. Tap .
2. Tap System > Bluetooth. This toggles Bluetooth On and Off.
LL If a remote password is configured on the recorder itself, Wingman will prompt for
that password to be entered prior to making the connection.

Status Bar

Connection Icon

Viewing Area

Tab Bar

Wingman’s touch-screen user interface offers easy navigation and monitoring

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User Guide
with three main areas of interest:
• Status - Shows device-specific status information.
• Viewing area - Displays different screen views, such as the Transport view
with its transport control buttons, metadata fields, and meters.
Swiping vertically in this area can toggle to other meters.
Swiping horizontally, toggles between Transport and Track views, handy
when using Wingman app on devices with smaller screens.

Transport View
Track View

• Tab bar - Remaining on screen all the time, the bar has four icons enabling
access to other views, such as the File list.
LL Not all buttons or tabs are enabled or used for MixPre functionality.

Connecting to a MixPre Recorder

If multiple Wingman-enabled devices are on set, Wingman will display all

available devices within range. You may tap the Connection icon to efficiently
switch connection from one device to another from within the app.
LL For productions with multiple recorders of the same model, tapping the Circled-I
icon helps identify the correct device, by displaying an “Identifying from Wingman”
message on the chosen recorder’s screen.

44
 REMOTE CONTROL

When running Wingman, the Connection icon, which bears the Sound Devices
logo, displays different colors. The color of the icon is significant:

Color Icon Status

Gray Disconnected - either no activity or scanning for devices

Orange Bluetooth connection in progress

Yellow Connected - authentication underway

Green Connected and authenticated

HDMI Record Trigger

The MixPre-6 may be configured to begin recording when it is triggered to do so
from an HDMI record flag from compatible DSLR cameras with HDMI output. By
default, record triggering is turned off. Setting the Record Trigger to HDMI flag
will initiate record when a compatible device issues the record flag via the HDMI
input.

To access the Record Trigger settings:

1. Tap .
2. Tap Record > Rec Trigger.

Linear Timecode (LTC) Record Trigger

The MixPre-6 may be configured to begin recording when it detects running LTC
timecode via the Aux input when set to Timecode. Set Rec Trigger to Timecode
to activate this feature.

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User Guide

Keyboard
A connected USB keyboard may be used as a wired remote control for certain
functions of the MixPre-6. See the table below for available USB keyboard
shortcuts.

USB Keyboard Shortcuts

When a USB keyboard is attached, the following key-combinations or shortcuts
are available.
Keystrokes Action
Escape Back. Also cancels out of editing mode when virtual keyboard is on
screen
F1 or Menu key Accesses the Main menu
F12 Home
F2 File list
F3 Cycles between available Meters views and the Main screen
Ctrl + R Record
Ctrl + S Stop
Spacebar Play
Left Arrow Main screen: Rewind
Menu and Input Settings screens: Toggles through pages
Right Arrow Main screen: Fast forward
Menu and Input Settings screens: Toggles through pages
Up / Down Arrows Main screen: Adjusts headphone volume
In menus: Duplicates encoder rotation, such as moves highlight,
scrolls list
While editing parameters: Changes the value
Enter In menus: Activates current selection. (Same as encoder press.) Also,
same as choosing OK when virtual keyboard is on screen
Q In menus: select top left option in quad button view
W In menus: select top right option in quad button view
A In menus: select bottom left option in quad button view
S In menus: select bottom right option in quad button view
1-6 Channel Settings screen for 1-6

46
Appendix A

Basic/Advanced Mode Differences

Screen Sub-Menu Basic Mode Advanced Mode
Channel Solo - 
Channel Arm - 
Channel Gain - 
Channel Pan L, C, R Continuously Variable
Channel Input  
Channel Phantom  
Channel Low Cut Fixed 80 Hz 40, 80, 120, 160 Hz
Channel Phase - Normal/Invert
Channel Delay - 0 - 30 ms
Channel Linking - Stereo, MidSide
Menu Presets  
Menu Project  
Menu Inputs (Aux In) Mic, Line, Off Mic, Line, Camera,
Timecode, Off
Menu Outputs - Stereo out L/R source select,
Stereo out gain
Menu Timecode  
Menu Tone On/Off On/Off, Continuous/Left
Identify/Tone Level
Menu Record Rec Trigger LR Linking, L/R Gain, Sample
Rate, Bit Depth, Rec Trigger
Menu SD Card  
Menu Date/Time  
Menu System  
Menu System > Limiters Always On On/Off
Menu Power  

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User Guide

System Settings
Page Sub-Menu Description
1 Mode Lets you switch the operating mode between Basic, Advanced and
Custom.
1 USB-C Switches between Audio and Power Only USB modes.
1 File Transfer Lets you transfer files between the MixPre and a host computer.
1 Limiters Lets you turn limiters on/off (available only in Advanced or Custom
modes).
2 Bluetooth Switches Bluetooth Smart on/off.
2 Wingman Password Lets you set a password that would be required when connecting to
the MixPre-6 with the Wingman app.
2 Brightness Lets you independently adjust the brightness of the touch screen and
the ring LEDs.
2 Version Provides the current firmware version and serial number.
3 Regulatory Provides full Federal Communications Commission (FCC) compliance
information specific to MixPre-6.
3 Update Firmware Lets you update the MixPre firmware from a file on the SD card. The
latest MixPre firmware can be downloaded from the Sound Devices
website: www.sounddevices.com/support/downloads

48
Specifications

Specifications are subject to change without prior notice.

For the latest information available on all Sound Devices products, visit our
website at: www.sounddevices.com.

Audio Inputs
Name Description
Frequency Response 10Hz to 80kHz +/- 0.5dB re 1kHz @ 192kHz sample rate
Total Harmonic Distortion 0.005% max (@1kHz, 22-22kHz BW, gain=20dB, -10dBu in)
(THD)
Equivalent Input Noise -130dBV (-128dBu) max (A-weighting, gain=76dB, 150 ohm source impedance)
(EIN)
Inputs • Mic: XLR active-balanced; 4k input Z
• Line: XLR active-balanced; 4k input Z
• Line: ¼-inch TRS active-balanced; 4k input Z
• Aux/Mic in: 3.5mm TRS, 2-channel unbalanced; 100k input Z
• USB Audio: 4 channels
• All inputs fully RF-filtered and overload protected.
Gain • Mic input: +6dB to +76dB
• Line input: -20dB to +30dB
• Fader: -inf to +20dB
• Headphone: -inf to +20dB
• Total, Mic-to-recording (max): +96dB
• Aux In (Mic): +10dB to +40dB
• Aux In (Line): -10dB to +20dB
• Total Aux Gain including Fader, Mic-to-recording: +60dB

ADC Dynamic Range 32 bit precision; 120dB dynamic range min (A-weighted, gain=10dB, fader=0dB)
Maximum Input Level • Mic XLR: +14dBu (limiters on or off)
• Line XLR/¼-inch: +40dBu (limiters on or off)
• Aux In (Mic): -10dBu
• Aux In (Line): +10dBu
Limiters • Limiter at all gain stages, range > 40dB.
• First stage analog, subsequent stages digital
Low Cut Filters 40Hz to 160Hz (adjustable), 18 dB/oct. First stage analog, subsequent stages digital
Microphone Powering • Mic XLRs: 48V via 6.8k resistors, 10mA each
• Mic 3.5mm: 3V @ 3k source Z

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User Guide

Audio Outputs
Name Description
Stereo Out 3.5mm TRS stereo unbalanced, 500 ohm output Z, +7.8dBu max output level
DAC feeding Stereo Out, 32 bit precision; 115dB dynamic range (A-weighted)
Headphone Out
Headphone Out 3.5mm TRS stereo unbalanced, for use with any impedance headphones

Recorder
Name Description
Maximum Record Tracks 8 tracks (stereo mix + 6 ISOs)
Sampling Frequency • 44.1 kHz • 96 kHz
• 48 kHz • 192 kHz
Bit Depth 16, 24
Media Type • Secure Digital Extended Capacity (SDXC)
• Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC)
• Secure Digital (SD)
Maximum Storage Size 512 GB (SDXC)
Card Format • FAT32 formatted (32GB or less), exFAT for (>32GB), on-board memory card formatting
File Type • WAV (Broadcast Wave File format), with embedded timecode stamp and metadata

USB
Name Description
Audio Interface (USB-C) 8-in/4-out; 44.1 to 96 kHz; 16/24-bit; Class compliant USB 2.0 high speed or ASIO
(supplied)
Mass Storage (USB-C) USB 2.0 high speed
Keyboard (USB-A) Text entry and control

Touch Screen

Name Description
Display 1.6-inch, color, sunlight-viewable IPS LCD
Resolution 320x240

50
 SPECIFICATIONS

Timecode
Name Description
Modes • Time of Day (file stamped w/current ToD)
• LTC Input (file stamped w/incoming LTC on Aux 3.5mm)
• HDMI TC (file stamped w/incoming TC from HDMI & sample clock slaved from HDMI sam-
ple clock. Only works on specific cameras that support HDMI TC
Frame Rates Auto detects (fps):
• 23.98 (same as 23.976) • 29.97DF
• 24 • 29.97
• 25 • 30
HDMI TC In From cameras that output timecode over HDMI

Remote Control
Name Description
Bluetooth Smart Wireless control using Wingman app
HDMI Auto-record start/stop trigger from cameras that output record flag over HDMI
Timecode Auto-record start/stop trigger via Aux In timecode

Power
Name Description
AA Batteries • 4x AA sled
• 8x AA sled
• NiMH recommended
L-Mount Batteries 2x L-mount sled for hot-swappable Li-Ion batteries
From Computer Bus-powered via USB-C port. Use either:
• USB-C to USB-C cable (optional)
• MX-USBY: USB-C to dual USB-A Y-cable (included)
AC Adapter • MX-Charge: 15W PSU w/USB-C connector; This optional accessory includes wall adapter
plugs for US, UK, Australia, and Europe

Environmental
Name Description
Operation and Storage • Operating: -20° C to 60° C
• Storage: -40° C to 85° C
• 0 to 90% relative humidity (non-condensing)

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User Guide

Dimensions and Weight

Name Description
Size (H x W x D) • 1.4 in x 6.53 in x 4.65 in
• 36 mm x 166 mm x 118 mm
Weight • 19.9 oz (unpackaged, without batteries)
• 0.56 kg (unpackaged, without batteries)

52
Glossary of Terms

Arm
Enables a track for recording
Gain
The ratio of output to input level. Gain is relevant at any point in the audio
signal path where there is a stage of amplification, such as preamplifier, mixer,
output, headphones.
Pan
The pan controls the spread of a monaural signal in a stereo or multi-channel
sound field - it is critical to the makeup of the stereo image. Panning adds space
in a mix through panning the sounds center, left and right.
Phantom
Phantom power is DC electric power transmitted through a microphone cable
to operate microphones that contain active electronic circuitry. Most often
used as a power source for condenser microphones, though many active direct
boxes also use it. The MixPre incorporates P48 +48VDC phantom powering,
switchable on each microphone input.
Low Cut
An active filter that removes frequencies below a specific point. The MixPre
incorporates 80, 120, 160, 200 and 240Hz options with a rolloff of 18dB per
octave, switchable on each microphone input.

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User Guide

Notes
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54
Software License

End-user license agreement for Sound Devices MixPre Series Software / Embedded Firmware

Important Read carefully:

This Sound Devices, LLC end-user license agreement (“EULA”) is a legal agreement between you (either an
individual or a single entity) and Sound Devices, LLC for the Sound Devices, LLC software product identified
above, which includes computer software, embedded firmware, and may include associated media, printed
materials, and “online” or electronic documentation (“SOFTWARE PRODUCT”). By using, installing, or copy-
ing the SOFTWARE PRODUCT, you agree to be bound by the terms of this EULA. If you do not agree to the
terms of this EULA, do not use or install the SOFTWARE PRODUCT.

Software Product License

The SOFTWARE PRODUCT is protected by copyright laws and international copyright treaties, as well as
other intellectual property laws and treaties. The SOFTWARE PRODUCT is licensed, not sold.
Grant of license. This EULA grants you the following limited, non-exclusive rights: In consideration of
payment of the licensee fee, Sound Devices, LLC, as licensor, grants to you, the licensee, a non-exclusive
right to use this copy of a Sound Devices, LLC software program (hereinafter the “SOFTWARE”) on a single
product and/or computer. All rights not expressly granted to licensee are reserved to Sound Devices, LLC.
Software ownership. As the licensee, you own the hardware on which the SOFTWARE is recorded or fixed.
Sound Devices, LLC shall retain full and complete title to the SOFTWARE and all subsequent copies of the
SOFTWARE, regardless of the media or form on or in which the original copies may exist. The license is not
a sale of the original SOFTWARE.

Copyright
All rights, title, and copyrights in and to the SOFTWARE PRODUCT (including, but not limited to, any im-
ages, photographs, animations, video, audio, music, text, and “applets” incorporated into the SOFTWARE
PRODUCT) and any copies of the SOFTWARE PRODUCT are owned by Sound Devices, LLC or its suppliers.
The SOFTWARE PRODUCT is protected by copyright laws and international treaty provisions. Therefore, you
must treat the SOFTWARE PRODUCT like any other copyrighted material, except that you may make copies
as only provided below. You may not copy the printed materials accompanying the SOFTWARE PRODUCT.
Restrictions on use. Licensee may not distribute copies of the SOFTWARE or accompanying materials to
others. Licensee may not modify, adapt, translate, reverse engineer, decompile, disassemble, or create de-
rivative works based on the SOFTWARE or its accompanying printed or written materials.
Transfer restrictions. Licensee shall not assign, rent, lease, sell, sublicense, or otherwise transfer the SOFT-
WARE to another party without prior written consent of Sound Devices, LLC. Any party authorized by Sound
Devices, LLC to receive the SOFTWARE must agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of this agree-
ment.

Termination
Without prejudice to any other rights, Sound Devices, LLC may terminate this EULA if you fail to comply
with the terms and conditions of this EULA. In such event, you must destroy all copies of the SOFTWARE
PRODUCT and all of its component parts.

Limited Warranty
No warranties. Sound Devices, LLC expressly disclaims any warranty for the SOFTWARE PRODUCT. The
SOFTWARE PRODUCT and any related documentation is provided “as is” without warranty or condition of
any kind, either express or implied, including, without limitation, the implied warranties and conditions of
merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement. The entire risk arising out of use or
performance of the SOFTWARE PRODUCT remains with you.
No liability for damages. In no event shall Sound Devices, LLC or its suppliers be liable for any damages
whatsoever (including, without limitation, damages for loss of business profits, business interruption, loss
of business information, or any other pecuniary loss) arising out of the use of or inability to use this Sound

55
User Guide
Devices, LLC product, even if Sound Devices, LLC has been advised of the possibility of such damages. In
any case, Sound Devices, LLC’s entire liability under any provision of this evaluation license shall be limited
to the greater of the amount actually paid by you for the SOFTWARE PRODUCT or U.S. $5.00. Because some
states/jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of liability for consequential or incidental damag-
es, the above limitation may not apply to you.

Governing Law

This agreement and limited warranty are governed by the laws of the state of Wisconsin.

FCC Compliance Statement

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1)
This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation. FCC Part 15.19 (a) (3)

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment.

FCC Interference Statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to
part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful inter-
ference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy
and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined
by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:

—Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

—Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
—Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
—Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

This device complies with FCC and ISED RF Exposure SAR limits exposure limits for general population /
uncontrolled exposure.

Cet appareil est conforme à la norme FCC et USED RF Exposure SAR limite les limites d’exposition pour la
population générale / l’exposition incontrôlée.

This Device complies with Industry Canada License-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: 1) this device may not cause interference, and 2) this device must accept any in-
terference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

Cet appareil est conforme avec Industrie Canada, exempts de licence standard RSS (s). Son fonctionne-
ment est soumis aux deux conditions suivantes: 1) ce dispositif ne peut pas causer d’interférences, et 2)
ce dispositif doit accepter toute interférence, y compris les interférences qui peuvent causer un mauvais
fonctionnement de l’appareil.

56
 ®

Sound Devices, LLC Customer Support Product Information

E7556 Road 23 and 33 For more information about products
Reedsburg, Wisconsin 53959 Toll Free: (800) 505-0625 and accessories, visit us on the web at
USA www.sounddevices.com.
Email: support@sounddevices.com
Phone: +1 (608) 524-0625 http://www.sounddevices.com/support Report Documentation Error
Fax: +1 (608) 524-0655 http://forum.sounddevices.com Email: techpubs@sounddevices.com