Soundcraft GB8-32 - 32-Channel Analog Mixing Console with 11x4 Output Matrix and 8 Auxiliary Sends/8 Group Sends in Dark Blue Finish

The Soundcraft GB8-32 is a professional 32-channel analog mixing console that offers an extensive feature set for live sound applications, including churches, performance venues, and small touring systems. Its robust design, advanced functionality, and top-tier components make it an excellent choice for front-of-house (FOH) or monitor mixing duties. Built with Soundcraft's renowned GB30 mic preamps and 4-band GB30 equalizer, the GB8-32 ensures high-quality audio with pristine clarity and low noise, making it ideal for demanding live sound environments.

The GB8-32's 32-channel frame includes 28 mono input channels with individual direct outputs, allowing for easy integration with multi-track recording systems. The console also provides 4 full-feature stereo input channels, giving users additional flexibility when handling stereo sources such as keyboards or playback devices. Each channel comes equipped with individually switched 48V phantom power, making it compatible with condenser microphones and other phantom-powered devices.

One of the standout features of the GB8-32 is its 11x4 output matrix, which provides exceptional routing options for complex live sound setups. This matrix allows engineers to route audio from the group busses and main L, R, and C (mono) outputs to four independent outputs, offering tremendous versatility in creating custom mixes for different zones, broadcast feeds, or recording. The console's 8 auxiliary sends, which can be switched between pre- and post-fader operation, further enhance its flexibility, allowing users to create multiple monitor mixes or effects sends.

The GB8-32 features 8 group sends, which can be swapped with all 8 aux sends, making it adaptable to a wide range of mixing scenarios. This dual-mode functionality, similar to the topology used in the Soundcraft MH3 and MH4 consoles, allows the GB8-32 to serve as both an FOH and monitor console, giving engineers fader control over group or auxiliary outputs depending on the application.

For intuitive control and monitoring, the GB8-32 includes a meter bridge with accurate VU meters for the left, right, and center outputs. These VU meters provide precise, real-time visual feedback on signal levels, ensuring accurate control over the mix. Additionally, the console comes with a 1kHz oscillator for system testing and calibration, making it easy to verify signal flow and identify any potential issues before or during a live event.

Another unique feature of the GB8-32 is the built-in limiter on the record output and alternate stereo output, ensuring distortion-free recordings and protecting against sudden level spikes that could damage connected equipment. The console also includes 4 mute groups, allowing multiple channels to be muted simultaneously with a single button press, a feature that is especially useful in live sound situations where quick control over multiple inputs is needed.

The GB8-32 is built to last, with a rugged steel chassis and sloping rear connector panel for easy access to connections from the front of the console. The input modules are constructed with individual vertically-mounted PCBs and feature individually-nutted potentiometers for increased durability. The integral power supply has a link option for an external backup PSU, providing added reliability for critical live sound applications.

Features

• 32 input channels (28 mono and 4 stereo) with GB30 mic preamps and 4-band GB30 EQ
• 11x4 output matrix for flexible routing to multiple zones or outputs
• 8 auxiliary sends, switchable between pre- and post-fader operation
• 8 group sends, which can be swapped with the 8 aux sends for flexible configuration
• 4 stereo input channels and 4 stereo returns for added input flexibility
• 4 mute groups for quick muting of multiple channels simultaneously
• Limiter on the record output and alternate stereo output for distortion-free recordings
• Direct outputs on all mono input channels for live recording or external processing
• Meter bridge with accurate VU meters for monitoring left, right, and center outputs
• 1kHz oscillator for system testing and calibration
• Rugged steel chassis with sloping rear connector panel for easy connection access
• Integral power supply with an external power supply link option for added reliability
• All-metal TRS jacks and Neutrik XLR connectors for robust signal connections
• Weight: 81.6 lbs
• Dimensions: 59.96 x 25.83 x 6.26 inches

Specifications

• Noise (Measured RMS, 22Hz to 22kHz Bandwidth)
  • Mic E.I.N. @ unity gain,150W source impedance: -128dBu
  • Mix Output, 40 inputs routed to mix: <-82dBu
  • Group Outputs: <-83dBu
  • Aux Outputs: <-80dBu
  • Matrix Outputs: <-89dBu
• Crosstalk (@1kHz, typical)
  • Input Channel Mute: <-97dB
  • Input Fader cut-off: <-95dB
  • Pan isolation: <-77dB
  • Mix route isolation: <-97dB
  • Group route isolation: <-97dB
  • Adjacent channel crosstalk: <-99dB
  • Group to Mix: <-89dB
  • Aux Send pots offness (typical): <-84dB
  • Matrix Send pots offness (typical): <-84dB
• Frequency Response
  • Mic/Line Input to any output, 20Hz - 20kHz: <1dB
• THD + N
  • Mic sens. -30dBu, +20dBu at all outputs @1kHz: <0.006%
• CMRR
  • Typical @ 1kHz: 80dB
• Input and Output Max Levels
  • Mono & Stereo Mic Inputs: +15dBu
  • Mono & Stereo Line Inputs: +30dBu
  • Stereo Returns & Insert Returns: +20dBu
  • Any output: +20dBu
  • Nominal Operating Level: 0dBu
  • Headphone Power: 2x250mW into 200Ω
• Input and Output Impedances
  • Mic Inputs: 2kΩ
  • Line Inputs and Stereo Returns: 10kΩ
  • Mix, Group, Aux, Matrix & Direct outputs: 150Ω
  • Insert Sends: 75Ω
  • Insert Returns: 5kΩ
  • Recommended Headphone Impedance: 600Ω