Allen and Heath XB14 2

[andrewzarian]

So are you still getting one?

[docizzen]

I have been researching the Mackie DL1608 and this was the correspondence I received from Mackie. FYI, they kept recommending the Onyx 1640i:

Me:

I am starting a podcast and am researching the best small footprint / mobile option for live and recorded podcasting. I have three mic'd guests and want to set up at least 4 phone/skype call-in interviews.

Ins:
3 mics via XLR
Up to 5 stereo inputs via 1/4" TRS like smartphone, laptop, tablet, etc for Smartphone/Skype/Google Voice/Google Hangout/.mp3

Outs:
four mix-minus "Aux Sends" sending mix-minus back to interview devices for callers
three stereo headphones out for me and 2 studio guest mic mixes (I have the Presonus HP4 headphone amp if that will help)
L & R Monitor out for recording podcast on a Zoom H4n
U-Stream stereo out for live internet stream
Application:
Using this mixer for live and recorded podcast episodes
Hoping the channel effects for each channel, i.e. comp, eq, gate, cause no noticeable latency.
Ability to also send a stream via one of the outs to computer for live internet stream.

Onyx 1640i Link

Mackie:

You should be able to accomplish that except for the separate headphone mixes. With the DL1608 you will be able to do one actual headphone mix using Aux sends 5-6.

One mixer you might want to try is the Onyx 1640i. This will get you just about everything you need plus 16x16 firewire connectivity and 4 sub group busses. Only thing is that it is much bigger than the DL1608.

Me:


What about an Audio Interface for podcasting. Perfect solution is to be able to set up live or record, but with unnoticable latency, and do everything as described with just an interface setup and a computer/iPad.

Mackie

There are many interfaces but it will be difficult to get that many aux sends AND that many separate headphone mixes. The 1640i can get you pretty close while having a massive amount of routing options.

Honestly, if I were to end up settling for a large board like the Onyx 1640i, I'm apt to take Mike Phillip's advise and go with the Presonus 16.4.2. for the same price.

[AlBurr]

Andrew I am waiting for absolute confirmation on the AH XB14 2s status....

Doc... I have considered all of the mixers you mentioned. In fact I had originally decided on the new 16.4.2 Ai due to its flexible interface options and rumors of future video and IP audio expandability but 2 grand and I still need to get a Telephone interface dissuaded me. One thing is that with the new 16.4.2 Ai being introduced the standard 16.4.2s are being sold at a discount or be found more readily used.

[AlBurr]

UPDATE: I just today heard from AH that the mixer is NOT discontinued. I have placed my order and expect to receive it next week.

[Dan Ortego]

Hello Al,
I spoke with the folks at Allen-Heath about a month ago and was told that it was still very much in stock. I believe the disconnect is that some of the suppliers that have it listed are still showing the previous model without the Mk-2 photo. I was told if I order it through the usual sources that I would undoubtedly receive the new version, although the supplier sales reps and/or websites may say/show otherwise.

Anyway, let us know how you like it because I'm still vacillating.

[AlBurr]

Thanks Dan... Once I have enough knowledge to assess whether I "should" like it I will pass it on. I will probably do the a classic "unboxing" vid when it arrives...

[AlBurr]

Just received the new mixer. Hope to have time to unbox it this weekend and play with it...I will keep you all posted.