PreSonus StudioLive AR12c 14-Channel Analog Mixer

The PreSonus StudioLive AR12c is a 14-channel analog mixer that combines live mixing, computer recording, and stereo SD-card recording in one compact console. It is designed for musicians, small venues, podcasters, and content creators who need hands-on control while also capturing performances. Eight XMAX microphone preamps, instrument inputs, and balanced line inputs provide flexible source connection options.

Its 14x4 USB 2.0 audio interface operates through a USB-C connection and supports 24-bit recording at up to 96 kHz. This allows every channel plus the main mix to be recorded to a compatible computer. The included Capture live-recording software and Studio One Pro perpetual license support a workflow from tracking through production on Mac or Windows.

The AR12c keeps the direct layout and tactile workflow of an analog mixer while adding digital recording tools. A 3-band analog EQ helps shape individual sources, while the onboard stereo effects processor provides 16 presets for adding ambience or modulation. The mixer also includes global +48V phantom power for microphones that require it.

For simple computer-free capture, the built-in 2x2 SD recorder records the main mix as a stereo WAV file. It accepts SD cards up to 2 GB and SDHC cards up to 32 GB using supported FAT16 or FAT32 formatting. SD/USB playback can also be selected through the Stereo Super Channel.

The Stereo Super Channel brings together Bluetooth 5.0 wireless audio, RCA inputs, a 1/8-inch stereo input, and switchable SD or USB playback. Two instrument inputs accommodate high-impedance sources, and two insert points support external processing on compatible channels. Main XLR outputs, balanced 1/4-inch line outputs, and a dedicated headphone output help the AR12c fit into live sound, monitoring, and recording setups.

Key Features

• 14x4 USB Recording: Records individual channels and the main mix to a computer.
• Eight XMAX Preamps: Connects up to eight balanced microphone sources.
• Stereo SD Recorder: Captures the main mix without using a computer.
• Bluetooth 5.0 Super Channel: Adds wireless playback alongside wired stereo inputs.
• 16-Preset Effects Processor: Provides onboard stereo effects with dedicated send and return.
• Studio One Pro Software: Includes a perpetual DAW license with hardware registration.

Design & Installation

The StudioLive AR12c is specified in blue and uses a compact, hands-on analog mixer format measuring 15 inches wide. Its physical layout places channel processing, routing, faders, and level monitoring on the mixer itself for direct operation. The chassis is 15.56 inches deep, 3.5 inches high, and weighs 11.9 pounds.

Connect microphones, instruments, and balanced line-level sources to the appropriate channel inputs, then route the main outputs to powered speakers, an amplifier, or a recording system. Use the USB-C-compatible USB 2.0 connection for multitrack computer recording, or install a properly formatted SD or SDHC card for stereo main-mix recording. Use the global phantom-power switch only when connected microphones require +48V power, and set levels carefully before recording or sending signal to speakers.