Acousta P50 ten channel mixer // compare to Studer

The Acousta P50 is an ultra small footprint analog recording mixer with 5 fully equipped channels, switchable to stereo = 10 channels total. It was conceived as a mobile audio / music recording mixer for TV, film and radio. The combination of its minimalistic size and the superb quality of its mic pres, filters and summing capabilities makes this a universal front end for nearly any amplification, recording, tracking and summing scenario up to 10 ch, when space is crucial but signal integrity can't be compromised.

I couldn't verify this at source, but multiple owners claim online that the original retail cost was a whopping 10.000€. What do we get for this?

• chassis dimensions: 35x25x8 cm without fades etc, about 6 kg
• 5 microphone preamplifiers with an impressively wide dynamic range
• per-channel gain (-10 to +72 db !!!!), high & low shelving EQ – selectable frequencies are 40, 80, 150 & 250 Hz / 4, 6, 10, 16 kHz –, HP filter, 48V phantom power (these are only available in mono mode!) – can handle line levels and provide significant mic gain, including for ribbon mics.
• five stereo channels (= 10 individual), through separate 5-pin XLR inputs. Adapter cables are included. Mixer channels can be set to either mono or stereo. The latter have pan & aux per stereo channel.
• pan per channel, in both, mono and stereo modes
• (one mono) aux send, switchable pre/post, with individual level setting per channel – there are more switchable routing modes which I haven't fully investigated yet
• TWO stereo main outs with different levels: 6 and 15 db – in a live set up one can be routed to a recorder, the other to the PA
• independent monitor out, with independent level control
• headphone amplifier with switchable output: main mix, monitor mix, PFL per channel or aux
• an outstanding, highly musical mixbuss limiter
• a background-illuminated control panel display
• a snapshot memory which saves settings / scenes

The form factor is achieved through Acousta's signature digital control of most parameters, which removes about 60 pots from the surface. All parameters are accessed with a channel select "set" switch + 4 function switches, as well as dedicated control switch pairs for the filters, aux levels & pan positions. It is quick, intuitive and more than just worth the substantial reduction in footprint.

The pres, shelving EQs and limiter are of extraordinary quality. Most compare the P50's character to Studer mixers though, but the EQ is proprietary.

The switchable mixbuss limiter is a joy to work with. With dynamic material, I've found this can dip up to 8 db into the signal with effectively no detectable artifacts. If pushed way beyond reason it eventually turns into a nicely pumping "French" overcompression effect, which has some intriguing musical applications of its own. Thoroughly useful throughout.

Applications: The P50 should be of greatest use for:

• mobile recording and multi-mic set-&-forget live mix set up for a small acoustic ensemble, singer-songwriter & jazz trio scenarios. Remember you can add your favourite pres on the stereo line inputs and thus capture up to 10 mics.
• stem mixes: two stereo stems on individual mono channels, so the EQ can be used, and one straight, with added limiter. The aux and monitor mix outs can address different reverbs for instance.
• tracking: although there are no direct outs, the main and aux outputs offer routing for three independent channels. There are additional routing options – however, I haven't yet figured out how to use the monitor out as to get 5 independent channels out.
• mixing and control for experimental or electroacoustic performances, were panning and extensive effects sends are handled electronically. Add record-ready shelving, transparent summing and top notch limiting with the P50.

Condition & cosmetics: Everything works as it should. The mixer was in use with a major German public broadcaster / TV station and has been serviced on a regular schedule (last time in May 2021). Cosmetics: there are a few marks, signs and scratches, but clearly this has seen few hours in the field. A few dots on the display who don't appear when lit up.

I have one original battery pack – not working. Since it's illegal to ship this internationally with any of the major couriers, this is not included.

FLIGHT CASE: There's a loose pin in the right closing mechanism, but it stays in place when locked.

Complete set:

• custom aluminium flight case
• removable handle/ mixer stand
• full cabling set: five paired XLR (L/R) to 5pin stereo input cables by Cordial
• two 5pin to two XLR (L/R) output cables by Mogami
• switchable PSU 100-240V (EU plug)
• p50-PE port extender module with connector for fader start, RS485 and "EDIT" connections (no further info on this available – not tested!)

Shipping worldwide. Heavy item!