Focusrite Platinum Mix Master

NOTE: Used MixMaster from Focusrite. Good condition. See photos for cosmetic details. 6-month warranty.

Focusrite Platinum MixMaster – analog mastering processor with full control of your final mix

Focusrite MixMaster is a complete analog stereo processor designed for mix and mastering applications. It combines an expander, multi-band compressor, parametric EQ, stereo image controller, and limiter in a 1U rack format, providing full control over dynamics and tonal balance without occupying other processors in the chain. An optional 24-bit/96 kHz digital output makes it equally suitable for hybrid and modern studios.

Overview and features

The MixMaster is designed to maximize signal level and musical punch in the final mix. Its three-band optical compressor allows separate dynamic control of low, mid, and high frequencies without collapsing the stereo field. Stereo expander and image width controls fine-tune spatial balance, while the built-in limiter protects both analog and digital outputs from clipping.

Construction and components

Built in a rugged metal 1U chassis (480 × 88 × 265 mm) with high-quality analog circuitry, the MixMaster delivers ultra-low distortion and extended frequency response. All knobs are detented for accurate recall. Balanced inputs and outputs are provided on both XLR and 6.3 mm TRS jacks for +4 dBu and –10 dBV signal levels.

Connections and integration

Balanced XLR and TRS I/O support professional and semi-pro setups. A separate stereo direct input lets you blend an additional source—such as a vocal or kick—just before the limiter. The optional digital board provides AES/EBU or S/PDIF output (16/24-bit, 44.1–96 kHz) with external wordclock sync via BNC.

Control and workflow

Each section (Expander, Compressor, EQ, Image, Limiter) can be individually bypassed or compared with the Effect Bypass function. LED meters display levels, gain reduction, and phase correlation. Program-dependent PDF/PDS release modes adapt compression behavior to the material, while balance and stereo width controls optimize spatial definition before limiting or conversion.

Technical depth – format, standards and use

Format and signal path

The MixMaster runs a fully analog signal path using optical compression across three frequency bands. With adjustable attack, release, and ratio per band, it delivers musical and transparent dynamics control suitable for pop, rock, classical, and broadcast material.

Power

Internal low-noise power supply. Power consumption: 7 W.

Environment and application

Designed for mastering and mix-bus use in professional and project studios. Adds analog warmth and punch to digital productions and serves perfectly as the final stage before A/D conversion or mastering.

In the box

Included accessories

Power cable, rack screws, insulation washers, and bushings.

Specifications

• Type: Analog stereo processor / mastering processor
• Inputs: Balanced XLR & TRS (+4 dBu / –10 dBV), 20 kΩ impedance
• Outputs: Balanced XLR (+4 dBu), unbalanced TRS (–10 dBV)
• Direct input: Stereo jack +4 dBu, mono via right input
• Expander: Threshold –30 to –60 dB, release 0.5–6 s
• Compressor: 3-band optical design, ratio up to 10:1, PDF/PDS release modes
• Equalizer: 3-band parametric (LF 40–120 Hz, MF 100 Hz–10 kHz, HF 10–20 kHz)
• Limiter: Multi-band, fixed threshold matched to 24/96 output
• Digital output (optional): 16/24-bit, 44.1–96 kHz, AES/EBU (XLR) / S/PDIF (RCA), wordclock (BNC)
• Frequency response: 5 Hz – 200 kHz (±2 dB)
• THD: < 0.006% (80 kHz BW)
• Signal-to-noise ratio: –100 dBr (sections off), < –90 dBr (sections on)
• Headroom: 22 dB
• Format: 19" / 2U – 480 × 88 × 265 mm
• Weight: 5.2 kg

FAQ