Sound Devices

Unleash Perfect Sound: Why the Sound Devices MixPre-3 II is a Game-Changer for Creators

For podcasters, filmmakers, and field recordists, pristine audio isn't a luxury—it's a necessity. Enter the Sound Devices MixPre-3 II, a compact marvel that packs professional, broadcast-quality recording into a device small enough to fit in your bag. This isn't just an incremental update; it’s a powerful tool designed to eliminate common recording headaches and let you focus on your craft.

The Magic of 32-Bit Float: Say Goodbye to Clipping

The headline feature of the MixPre-3 II is its support for 32-bit float recording. This isn't just a bigger number; it’s a fundamental change that offers a virtually limitless dynamic range.

What does that mean for you?

• No More Clipping (Practically): Imagine recording a quiet interview followed by a sudden, ear-splitting clap of thunder. In 24-bit, you'd likely clip the thunder. With 32-bit float, you capture all the detail, and you can recover the "clipped" audio in post-production with zero loss of quality or added noise.

• Set It and Forget It: This technology allows you to set your levels to a safe, general range and stop worrying about sudden peaks. It dramatically simplifies the recording process, especially for solo operators or in unpredictable environments.

World-Class Preamps: The Kashmir Advantage

Professional audio starts at the preamplifier, and the MixPre-3 II is equipped with Sound Devices' acclaimed Kashmir mic preamps.

• Ultra-Low Noise: With a stunning -130 dBV noise floor and a massive 76 dB of clean gain, these preamps can drive even the most gain-hungry microphones (like the Shure SM7B) without needing an external booster.

• Pristine Quality: They deliver a clean, transparent, "silky smooth" tone that rivals recorders many times its size and price, giving your audio a professional sheen right from the source.

Versatility in a Compact Form

The MixPre-3 II is much more than just a recorder; it's a full production hub that adapts to any scenario:

• Inputs: It features three high-quality XLR inputs for microphones, plus a 3.5mm Aux/Mic input, allowing you to capture up to five tracks (3 ISOs + a stereo mix) simultaneously to an SD card.

• USB Audio Interface: Connect it to your Mac or PC via USB-C, and it instantly transforms into a 5-in/2-out USB audio interface—perfect for high-quality podcasting, streaming, or home studio work.

• Timecode Integration: Essential for videographers, the MixPre-3 II features an internal LTC timecode generator and can receive triggers from cameras via HDMI, ensuring your audio and video are perfectly synced.

• Durable and Portable: Housed in a die-cast aluminum chassis, this recorder is built to withstand the rigors of field recording while remaining remarkably lightweight.

Who Should Buy the MixPre-3 II?

• The Solo Filmmaker/Videographer: You need top-tier audio but can't constantly monitor levels while operating a camera. 32-bit float is your safety net.

• The Serious Podcaster: You demand the best sound quality for your multi-mic recordings and need an interface that can power your studio-grade microphones.

The Field Recordist: You capture everything from quiet nature sounds to loud cityscapes and need the dynamic range and low-noise performance of the Kashmir preamps.

Final Take

The Sound Devices MixPre-3 II is an investment in flawless audio. It removes the technical anxiety of setting levels and delivers a sound quality that will immediately elevate your productions. If you're ready to make audio problems a thing of the past and hear the true potential of your microphones, the MixPre-3 II should be at the top of your gear list.

In the fast-paced world of production sound, efficiency is key.

Every minute saved on set is a win. That’s where the Sound Devices WM-Connect Bluetooth Smart® USB dongle and the free Wingman app for Android and iOS come in, offering a powerful and affordable solution for wireless remote control and metadata management for your 6-Series mixer/recorder.

What is the WM-Connect? The WM-Connect is a small, essential piece of hardware: a Bluetooth Smart USB dongle. It's the bridge that brings your Sound Devices 6-Series mixer/recorder into the wireless, touch-screen era.

Compatibility:

• Mixer/Recorders: Sound Devices 688, 664, and 633 (requires a compatible 6-Series firmware version, typically v4.00 or later).

• Installation: It plugs into the USB-B port on the right side of the mixer using one of the included adapters (a right-angle adapter and a cable adapter), or directly into the keyboard port of an attached CL-12/CL-12 Alaia.

Enter Wingman: Your Wireless Control Surface The Wingman app, available as a free download on the Apple App Store and Google Play, harnesses the WM-Connect's Bluetooth connection to give you remote control features from your smartphone or tablet. This puts a clear, intuitive interface for vital functions right in the palm of your hand, allowing you to step away from the recorder while maintaining crucial control.

Key Features of the Wingman App:

• Remote Transport Control: Easily Start and Stop audio recordings from a distance (typical line-of-sight range is about 50 feet).

• Clear Monitoring: View meters, timecode, and frame rate on the larger screen of your mobile device.

• Metadata & Take Management:

  • Enter and Edit metadata on the mixer in real-time.

  • Arm, Disarm, and Rename tracks quickly.

  • Circle a take or designate a False take with a simple tap.

• Sound Reports: Create and manage sound reports directly on the mixer and then email the reports (as .csv files) from your connected iOS or Android device.

• Workflow Convenience: If multiple WM-Connect-equipped 6-Series mixers are nearby, the Wingman app will display them all, allowing you to easily switch control between devices.

Note: For MixPre Series recorders, the WM-Connect is not required, as those recorders have built-in Bluetooth LE.

The Power of Pairing The combination of the WM-Connect and the Wingman app is a game-changer for 6-Series users. It allows for a more streamlined workflow, especially when the mixer is placed in a bag or on a sound cart where direct access to the small screen and controls might be cumbersome. From rapid metadata entry using your phone’s keyboard to remotely checking levels, this affordable accessory package brings modern wireless convenience to a professional sound mixer's toolkit.

Why the Sound Devices MM-1 is Still Worth Its Weight in Gold

In the world of professional location sound, few single-channel preamps command the respect—and the high resale value—of the Sound Devices MM-1. This compact, battery-powered microphone preamplifier and headphone monitor has been a staple on film sets, in broadcast trucks, and in challenging field environments for years.

But for a single-channel box, both its original price (around $795 USD) and its persistent cost on the used market often surprise newcomers. Why does this little piece of gear hold its value so fiercely? The answer lies in its meticulous design, its unique functionality, and its status as a critical piece of gear for a specialized craft.

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What Makes the MM-1 Essential? The MM-1 isn't just a basic preamp; it's a specialized tool for the working professional, particularly the Boom Operator.

a. Exceptional Preamplifier Quality Sound Devices built its reputation on pristine audio quality, and the MM-1 is no exception. Its microphone preamp delivers:

• Ultra-Low Noise: A minimal Equivalent Input Noise (EIN) of -126 dBu ensures that even quiet dialogue is captured cleanly without hiss.

• High Headroom: A maximum gain of 66 dB and a high clipping level mean it can handle everything from quiet plant mics to loud dialogue without distortion.

• Transformer-Balanced I/O: Using high-quality transformer-balanced inputs and outputs contributes to its excellent immunity to RF interference (RFI) and its ability to drive clean line-level signals over long cable runs.

b. The "Unclippable" Limiter One of the MM-1's most famous features is its dual-stage, extended-range peak limiter. This robust analog circuit uses dual opto-isolators to make the preamp virtually "unclippable." For a boom operator reacting instantly to unpredictable on-set dialogue, this is a literal lifesaver, guaranteeing a clean signal even during unexpected peaks.

c. Versatile Headphone Monitoring This is the feature that elevates the MM-1 beyond a simple preamp and makes it indispensable for a boom op:

• Mic + Monitor Mix: It allows the operator to monitor their microphone signal and an external line-level "Monitor In" signal (typically the full mix from the Sound Mixer's cart) simultaneously.

• Solo and Split Ear: The operator can instantly solo their own mic to hear exactly what they are picking up, or use the Split Ear function to monitor their mic in one ear and the mix in the other. This facilitates private communication and precise performance.

• Phantom Power Versatility: It provides all necessary phantom power options: +48V, +12V, and even 12V "T-power," accommodating virtually any professional boom microphone.

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Why Is the Price Still So High? The Market Dynamics Unlike consumer electronics that quickly depreciate, the MM-1's price remains remarkably resilient on the used market. This is due to a confluence of professional factors:

a. High Cost of Construction (Boutique Audio) Sound Devices equipment is not mass-produced like consumer gear.

• High-End Components: The MM-1 uses boutique, high-tolerance components (like audio transformers and precision analog circuitry) which are inherently more expensive than integrated circuit (IC) designs.

• Rugged Build: Its chassis is built from aluminum and stainless steel with robust, panel-mounted connectors. This durability means the MM-1 can withstand the rigors of years of field use, making a used unit nearly as reliable as a new one.

b. Professional Demand and Niche Market The target audience for the MM-1 is relatively small—primarily professional boom operators and field recordists.

• Unmatched Feature Set: For a boom operator, no modern alternative perfectly matches the MM-1's specific combination of clean preamp, legendary limiter, and versatile split-ear monitoring in a belt-mountable, AA-powered package.

• "Industry Standard" Status: Since the MM-1 became the standard piece of gear for this role, professionals are trained on it and trust it implicitly. Its reliability ensures the job gets done right the first time, an invaluable trait on an expensive production.

c. The Longevity Factor The high resale price is a reflection of the MM-1's expected lifetime. This unit was built to last decades. A new buyer knows that even a five-year-old MM-1 will likely perform flawlessly for another ten years, justifying the high initial investment. It's less of a purchase and more of an investment in a career tool with a reliable return.

In short, the Sound Devices MM-1 remains expensive because you're not just paying for a preamp; you are buying pristine audio quality, legendary reliability, and a niche tool set that is essential for a mission-critical role in professional production sound.

Enhanced by the CL-8 and CL-9

The Sound Devices 788T digital audio recorder, though a legacy product, remains legendary in the world of professional production sound. Its combination of portability, robust build quality, and extensive feature set made it a staple for sound mixers on film, TV, and documentary sets. Paired with its dedicated control surfaces—the CL-8 and CL-9—the 788T transformed from a powerful recorder into a comprehensive, highly flexible mixing and recording system.

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The 788T: A Compact Powerhouse 💪

The 788T was designed for demanding field applications, offering superb audio quality and reliable performance in a compact form factor. Key 788T Features:

• 8 Pristine Inputs & 12-Track Recording: It boasts eight full-featured, ultra-low-noise microphone preamplifiers that accept mic or line-level signals. It can record up to 12 tracks simultaneously, allowing for isolated tracks ("isos") for each input plus a stereo mix and two auxiliary tracks.

• Time Code and Synchronization: A high-accuracy, on-board time code generator/reader (supporting all standard frame rates) and word clock I/O ensure seamless synchronization with cameras and other production equipment—critical for sound-for-picture work.

• Durable Storage: The recorder utilized multiple recording media options, including an internal hard drive (or later, an SSD), a CompactFlash (CF) card, and external FireWire drives, all of which could be used simultaneously for immediate backups.

• Built-in Processing: Each input included essential tools like 48V phantom power, fully adjustable high-pass filters, and robust peak limiters.

• Taking Control: The CL-8 and CL-9While the 788T is fully functional on its own, its compact size means menu diving is sometimes necessary. This is where the CL-8 and CL-9 control surfaces stepped in, vastly improving the user experience for on-set mixing. Both connected to and were bus-powered by the 788T via a single USB cable.

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The CL-8: Rotary Control for the Bag Mixer: The CL-8 was designed as a lightweight, portable mixing surface for the sound mixer working "over-the-shoulder" or from a compact audio bag.

• Rotary Faders: It features eight large, tactile rotary faders (knobs) to control the input-to-mix levels (L/R and Aux tracks).

• Quick Access Buttons: Dedicated push buttons provide immediate, visual control over critical channel functions like High-Pass Filter, Limiter, Polarity Reverse, Mute, and Solo for each of the eight inputs.

• Simple and Durable: The design is focused on durability and simplicity, providing essential mixer-type controls without adding excessive bulk or weight.

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The CL-9: Linear Precision for the Sound Cart

• The CL-9 is the larger, more advanced mixing surface, perfect for sound mixers working on a stationary sound cart where precision and more controls are desired. It effectively turns the 788T into a professional mixing console.

• Eight 100mm ultra-low-latency linear faders for highly precise and smooth level control.

• Dedicated Rotary Trim controls for each input, plus a full sweepable, single-band parametric EQ per input (Frequency, Gain, and Q) added to the 788T's feature set.

• Dedicated control over Input Pan and Output Level for all six analog outputs.Communication

• Dedicated connections and controls for a slate circuit and private talkback circuits (Return Inputs) for seamless communication with the boom operator and talent.

• Four additional user-programmable controls for assigning menu items to physical knobs.

The System's Legacy The 788T and its controllers provided a generation of production sound mixers with a powerful, flexible, and robust recording solution. The ability to switch between the compact, rotary-fader CL-8 for mobile work and the comprehensive, linear-fader CL-9 for cart-based mixing made the 788T System incredibly versatile and a true industry standard for high-track-count, sync-sound recording that can now be purchased on the second-hand market for a fraction of its original price.

Is the Sound Devices 688: Still the King of the Sound Bag?

For professional sound mixers, the equipment you carry isn't just a collection of gear—it's the heart of your operation. When Sound Devices introduced the 688 12-Input Field Production Mixer/Recorder, it quickly became a benchmark for versatility and reliability in the bag. Even with newer models on the market, the 688's blend of powerful features, robust design, and smart workflow integration makes it a timeless choice for complex productions.

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More Inputs, Smarter Mixing The 688 is a true powerhouse, built for demanding jobs. It offers a massive 12 analog inputs (six high-bandwidth mic/line inputs on XLR, plus six line-level inputs on TA3 connectors). This capacity, combined with its 16-track integrated recorder (recording Broadcast WAV files to both SD and CompactFlash cards), gives you the flexibility to handle everything from documentary interviews to high-track-count reality TV.

But its true genius lies in its processing:

• MixAssist™ Auto-Mixing: This is a game-changer for multi-mic setups. The 688's sophisticated algorithm automatically attenuates inactive mics, helping to maintain consistent background noise and reducing common phasing and comb filtering issues that plague complex dialogue scenes. It's an invaluable tool for on-the-fly mixing that still provides clean ISO tracks for post-production.

• Flexible Routing: All 12 inputs can be routed pre- or post-fade to the eight output buses (L/R mix + Aux 1-6), allowing for simultaneous feeds to multiple cameras, client monitoring, and other external devices.

Designed for the Field Sound Devices is known for building equipment that can take a beating, and the 688 is no exception. Its lightweight, durable chassis is packed with features designed for real-world production:

• PowerSafe™ Technology: Never fear an accidental power loss again. This exclusive circuitry provides an integrated 10-second power reserve, allowing the unit to safely stop recording and properly close all files, protecting your valuable audio.

• QuickBoot: The 688 powers on and is ready to record in less than two seconds, ensuring you never miss the action.

• Ambient Timecode: It features a world-renowned Ambient timecode generator and reader, supporting all common rates and modes for rock-solid sync.

• Bright Display: The 1000-nit LCD screen ensures excellent visibility, even in bright sunlight, making it easy to monitor your levels and navigate menus.

• The SL-6 Integration For the ultimate cable-free bag setup, the 688 pairs seamlessly with the optional SL-6 Power Distribution and Wireless System.

The SL-6 attaches to the 688 and:

• Provides powering and audio interconnection for up to three dual-channel wireless receivers via the SuperSlot™ standard.

• Distributes a single NP-1 battery supply to the 688 and all connected wireless receivers, significantly reducing battery and cabling clutter.

• Enables integrated control and monitoring of SuperSlot-compatible receivers directly from the 688's screen.

Final Takeaway The Sound Devices 688 is more than just a mixer or a recorder; it's a consolidated production audio solution. By integrating multi-channel mixing, auto-mixing, and multi-track recording with features like PowerSafe and optional wireless integration, it provides an unparalleled combination of performance, workflow efficiency, and peace of mind. For sound mixers tackling demanding field work, the 688 is a tool that elevates the entire production.

Small Size, Monumental Sound: The Enduring Charm of the Sound Devices 302

In the world of professional location sound, gear often needs to be light, tough, and acoustically pristine. Few pieces of equipment embody this trifecta better than the Sound Devices 302 Field Mixer. While larger mixers have come and gone, this compact, three-channel mixer has cemented its status as a foundational tool for documentary, ENG (Electronic News Gathering), and independent film production.

If you've ever seen a sound mixer with a tiny, indestructible box hanging over their shoulder, chances are it was the 302. Here's a deeper look into why this little giant remains so popular.

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Three Channels of Pristine Quality The core of the 302’s legacy lies in its audio quality. Despite its diminutive size (weighing under 2 lbs), it delivers the same studio-grade performance found in its larger siblings.

• Legendary Preamps: The 302 features three transformer-balanced XLR inputs, each equipped with the exceptionally clean, low-noise preamps Sound Devices is famous for. They provide ample gain for quiet microphones and handle high-output signals with ease.

• Total Phantom Power Flexibility: For professional condenser microphones, the 302 offers individually selectable phantom power options: +48V, +12V, and even T-Power (+12V-T). This ensures compatibility with virtually any professional microphone, old or new.

• Powerful Limiters: The mixer includes effective switchable input and output limiters. These are crucial for preventing digital clipping and distortion caused by sudden, loud sounds—a lifesaver on unpredictable documentary or news shoots.

Built for the Over-the-Shoulder Workflow The 302 was specifically designed to be carried in a sound bag for "run-and-gun" shooting, prioritizing portability and quick access to essential controls.

• Compact & Rugged: Housed in a durable, extruded aluminum chassis, the 302 is built to withstand extreme weather and physical demands. Its small footprint is perfect for situations where a larger cart-based mixer is impractical.

• Intuitive Control Surface: All critical controls—gain, faders, panning, and filters—are on the main surface. There are no "hidden" controls, allowing mixers to make fast, tactile adjustments without taking their eyes off the scene.

• Daylight-Visible Metering: The bright, multi-colored LED meters are easily visible in direct sunlight, a non-negotiable feature for outdoor field work.

• AA Battery Power: The unit runs on just three internal AA batteries or external DC power via a locking Hirose connector, offering excellent power efficiency and flexibility in remote locations.

Professional Features in a Micro Package Beyond the basics, the 302 includes sophisticated features that elevate it above other compact mixers:

• M-S (Mid-Side) Stereo Matrix: Channels 1 and 2 can be stereo-linked to allow for M-S stereo microphone recording and monitoring. The mixer features an onboard M-S decoder for real-time monitoring of the stereo image, a huge benefit for capturing high-quality ambiance.

• Advanced Monitoring: The headphone output offers a variety of monitoring sources, including individual channel PFL (Pre-Fade Listen), stereo, mono-sum, and even the external return feed from the camera or recorder.

• Flexible I/O: The two main XLR outputs are mic/line level switchable, allowing the 302 to feed anything from a basic DSLR camera (which typically expects mic level) to a high-end external digital recorder (which expects line level). The mixer also includes a dedicated Tape Out and a Return Input.

• Mix-In/Mix-Out: Two 302 units can be linked together using their "Mix-In" and "Mix-Out" ports, creating an instant six-channel mixer package when a job demands more inputs.

The Legacy Continues The Sound Devices 302 didn't just meet the industry standard; it set the standard for small professional mixers. While Sound Devices now offers the MixPre Series with integrated recording and USB audio, the classic 302 remains highly sought after on the used market. Its sheer simplicity, uncompromising build quality, and superior sonic performance make it a timeless piece of kit for anyone serious about capturing professional audio in the field.

Watch an overview of the Sound Devices 302 mixer in action: Sound Devices 302 Mixer Overview - YouTube

The Five-Channel Field King: Why the Sound Devices 552 Still Commands Respect

For over a decade, the Sound Devices 552 has been an indispensable tool in the professional location sound world. Seamlessly blending a powerful field mixer with an integrated digital recorder, the 552 defined a new standard for compact, high-quality audio capture. Whether you're a seasoned production sound mixer or a filmmaker building a first-class audio kit, here's a look at why this five-channel powerhouse remains an industry favorite.

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The Power of Five: Mixer Features That Matter The Sound Devices 552 was a significant upgrade from its venerable predecessor, the 442, primarily by adding a critical fifth input channel. This expansion proved essential for modern production, allowing sound mixers to easily accommodate the standard four wireless lavalier microphones plus a boom mic, all in one compact unit.

Here are the standout mixing features that ensure pristine audio quality:

• Five High-Performance Preamps: The 552 features five transformer-balanced XLR mic inputs, each boasting significant gain and headroom. This legendary preamp quality is a hallmark of Sound Devices gear, providing clean, low-noise audio capture.

• Per-Channel Control: Every input features its own limiter and a sweepable high-pass filter, giving mixers precise control to combat low-end rumble and prevent digital clipping.

• Flexible Routing: Each of the five channels has a pre- or post-fader direct output (on TA3 connectors), allowing sound recordists to send individual isolated tracks (ISOs) to a separate multi-track recorder for post-production flexibility.

More Than Just a Mixer: The Integrated Recorder One of the 552's most revolutionary features was its fully integrated, two-track digital audio recorder.

• Built-in Stereo Recorder: The unit records industry-standard Broadcast WAV or MP3 files to easily available SD/SDHC media. This built-in recorder is perfect for capturing the primary stereo mix, serving as a reliable backup for a camera feed ("wireless hop"), or providing time-coded MP3 transcripts for quick post-production workflow.

High-Resolution Audio: It supports recording at up to 24-bit/96kHz, ensuring broadcast-quality files.

• Intuitive Control: Recording functions are managed via a simple, front-panel joystick controller, making it quick and easy to operate even in fast-paced "run-and-gun" scenarios.

Built for the Field: Design and Durability Location sound work is brutal on gear, and Sound Devices built the 552 to endure.

• Rugged, Lightweight Chassis: Constructed with molded, metalized carbon fiber for the top and bottom panels, the mixer is remarkably strong yet lightweight (around 4 lbs without batteries). The front panel is also gasketed for improved moisture resistance.

• Voice-Enhanced Navigation (SVEN): An innovative feature at the time, the 552 offers a voice-prompted menu system. This "SVEN" system allows mixers to navigate complex setup menus and confirm settings (like phantom power changes) through their headphones without having to look down, a crucial feature when working in bright sunlight or cramped bags.

• Power Options: The mixer can be powered by four standard AA batteries or an external DC power source (10-18 VDC).

Applications: Where the 552 Shines The versatility and compact size of the 552 made it a go-to tool for:

• Electronic News Gathering (ENG) and Documentaries: Its lightweight form factor, internal recorder, and capacity for multiple lavs/a boom are perfect for small-crew, high-mobility shoots.

• Film and Television Production: Providing a high-quality mix and isolated direct outputs, the 552 is often paired with a multi-track recorder (like a Sound Devices 744T or a TASCAM DR-680) to create a robust double-system sound package.

• Complex Multi-Camera Setups: With three sets of balanced master outputs (including an AES/EBU digital output option for up to four channels), the 552 can feed multiple cameras or recorders simultaneously.

The Legacy The Sound Devices 552 remains a testament to superior engineering, combining professional mixing features with a high-quality recorder in a compact, durable package. For sound professionals demanding reliability and pristine audio in any environment, the 552 cemented its place as a classic.

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The brief video below provides an overview and demonstration of the Sound Devices 552 Portable Production Mixer and Recorder. Sound Devices 552 Portable Production Mixer Recorder Demo | Full Compass

When you're out in the field, every ounce matters, but so does reliability and pristine audio quality. For years, the Sound Devices 633 has been the sweet spot for many production sound mixers, offering a powerful combination of a 6-input mixer and a 10-track recorder in a lightweight, compact, and carbon-fiber chassis. If you're looking to upgrade your sound bag or need a reliable workhorse for small-to-midsize productions, the 633 deserves a closer look.

Key Features That Make the 633 a Production Staple

The 633 isn't just a recorder; it's a fully featured field production tool built for the rigors of location shooting. Here’s what sets it apart:

1. Versatile Inputs and Track Count The 633 offers serious flexibility for common shooting scenarios (e.g., three lavs and a boom).

2. 6 Analog Inputs: You get three high-quality microphone preamplifiers on full-size XLR connectors, complete with phantom power, high-pass filters, and input limiters. Plus, three additional line-level inputs are available on TA3 (mini-XLR) connectors.

3. 10-Track Recording: The recorder can capture all six inputs as isolated tracks (ISOs), plus the Left/Right mix and Aux 1/2 outputs, for a total of ten tracks. This is the cornerstone of professional production sound, ensuring you have individual tracks for post-production, even if your live mix runs into trouble.

Digital I/O: The first XLR can be used for AES digital input, and the main XLR outputs can be configured for AES output, expanding your digital connectivity.

1. Unmatched Reliability with PowerSafe™ One of Sound Devices' most legendary features is its power management. The 633 is a master of redundancy:

Quad Powering: It supports up to four simultaneous power sources: external DC (Hirose), two removable L-type Li-ion batteries, and six internal AA batteries.

PowerSafe™ Technology: If all power sources are disconnected, the unit features an internal 10-second power reserve to safely close all file operations and properly shut down, protecting your precious recordings from corruption. It also boasts a rapid two-second power-on-to-recording time.

1. Dual-Card Redundancy and Workflow Efficiency The 633 is designed to deliver files ready for post-production with ultimate security.

Dual-Card Recording: It records to both CompactFlash (CF) and SD cards simultaneously. You can set the cards to record identical material for a real-time backup, or record high-quality WAV files to one card and timecode-stamped MP3s to the other for dailies and transcription.

Timecode and Metadata: A high-accuracy, integrated Timecode generator ensures perfect sync with video. The unit also features a USB port for connecting a keyboard to easily enter extensive file metadata.

The Final Word

The Sound Devices 633 is often considered an "engineering masterpiece" for location sound. It strikes a nearly perfect balance between input count, track count, compact size, and professional-grade features. While newer recorders offer different technologies, the 633's reputation for rugged build quality, fantastic preamps, and iron-clad file reliability means it continues to be a top choice for documentaries, commercials, and narrative films where dependability is non-negotiable. It’s a workhorse that earns its place in the sound bag.

This video describes the different recording formats, like mono and poly WAV, that are possible with the Sound Devices 633's dual memory card slots.

Recording formats on the Sound Devices 688 / 633 / 664