Field/Live Mixer

[twointhemorning]

are there mixers that can be used for a portable field mixer for filming as well as a live mixer for live music performance? something like the mixpre wouldn't work for live music performance if not only because the two mediums use different inputs/outputs, or is there a way around that?

thank you

 

[ullanta]

Different input/outputs? What do you mean? They should be more or less the same in terms of I/O.

One of the primary differences is that music mixers tend to have a lot more input channels, and tend not to be easily battery powered. The better ones tend to have faders, better suited to musicality in mixing, while field mixers have knobs primarily for "safe, correct" level setting. And, field mixers are designed to be worn on the body by a boom op, while music mixers tend to be designed for stand-mounted or tabletop use. Music mixers tend to have some EQ; the better field mixers tend to have limiters.

Aside from these issues, though, both usually have the same sorts of inputs and outputs. If you want to go dual-use, you will likely want a music mixer for more channels, busses, etc.; and will have to sacrifice some convenience in field production.
Few field mixers have more than 2 or 3 channels, which won't handle most music mixing situations.

If you're on a tight budget, I'd suggest the small Yamaha mixers (MG10/2, etc). If you have more to spend, Mackies are nice. The Onyx line ios really nice, but larger - so the tradeoff with convenience is tougher.