PreSonus NSB16-8 16x8 AVB-Networked Stage Box

The PreSonus NSB16-8 is a 16x8 AVB-networked stage box designed to place microphone, line-input, and analog-output connections where they are needed on stage. It connects with compatible PreSonus StudioLive Series III digital mixers over an AVB network, reducing the need for a large analog multicore between the stage and mix position. This makes it a practical remote-I/O solution for live sound, installed systems, theater, worship, broadcast, and mobile production setups.

Sixteen locking combo input connectors accept balanced XLR microphone sources or balanced 1/4-inch TRS line-level sources. Each microphone input uses a remotely controllable XMAX preamp, allowing input gain and phantom power to be managed from a connected StudioLive Series III mixer or PreSonus Universal Control software. Eight locking balanced XLR outputs provide analog sends at the stage end of the system.

The NSB16-8 is built for clean signal handling across a networked production system. Its microphone and line input paths are specified from 20 Hz to 20 kHz at unity gain, while the digital audio section provides 115 dB A-weighted dynamic range at 48 kHz. The result is a remote stage interface suited to microphones, DI boxes, playback devices, monitor feeds, and other balanced audio connections.

Onboard DSP provides gain compensation for every input when the stage box is shared by multiple mixers on the same AVB network. One mixer is assigned master preamp control, while other connected mixers can make local gain adjustments relative to that master setting. This supports coordinated front-of-house, monitor, and broadcast workflows without requiring separate analog splits for every position.

Two locking XLR Ethernet AVB ports form an integrated two-port switch for direct or daisy-chained network configurations. The compact steel enclosure includes stage-friendly handles and can also be converted for rack use with the separately available NSB 16.8 Rack Kit. It is a focused expansion component for StudioLive Series III systems that need more I/O away from the console.

Key Features

• 16 Locking Combo Inputs: Connect balanced microphones through XLR or balanced line-level sources through 1/4-inch TRS.
• 16 XMAX Preamps: Remotely manage microphone gain from a compatible StudioLive Series III system.
• Eight Balanced XLR Outputs: Send analog output feeds back to the stage with locking XLR connections.
• 32x8 AVB Audio: Provides 16 direct channels plus 16 gain-compensated input channels over AVB.
• Gain Compensation DSP: Supports shared-input workflows across multiple mixers on the same AVB network.
• Dual AVB Network Ports: The integrated switch supports direct connections and daisy-chained stage-box layouts.

Design & Installation

The NSB16-8 uses a rugged steel chassis with integrated handles for stage placement and transport. Its compact enclosure measures 16.7 inches wide by 7 inches high by 4.5 inches deep and weighs 6.2 pounds. Locking input, output, network, and IEC power connections help keep a working system secure.

Connect the stage box to a compatible PreSonus StudioLive Series III mixer through its AVB network ports using suitable CAT5e or CAT6 Ethernet cabling. Connect microphones or balanced line devices to the combo inputs, then route required output feeds from the mixer to the eight XLR outputs. For rack installations, remove the handles and use the optional NSB 16.8 Rack Kit; the stage box can also be daisy-chained with additional compatible AVB devices.