Following in the footsteps of the StudioLive 16.4.2 digital mixer, the new PreSonus StudioLive 24.4.2 ($2,999 Street) offers the same user interface as its predecessor, plus 8 additional channels (24 channels in all), extensive I/O, and a number of enhanced features. Each input features a trim pot, XLR mic input with XMAX mic preamp, 1/4-inch TRS balanced line inputs, and unbalanced insert points. The unit has 4 subgroup outputs and 10 aux buses.

Ideal for both studio recording and live sound, the new StudioLive 24.4.2 can serve as a dual-port FireWire audio interface that can route all channels and buses to and from a computer, be it a Mac or PC. The 24.4.2 can send 32 channels to the computer and can return 26 channels via FireWire. The digital mixer's FireWire interface works with any ASIO- or Core Audio-compliant audio application and is compatible with Windows and Mac OS X, including Windows 7 and Snow Leopard.

Its Fat Channel provides extensive metering, as well as the programming interface for the EQ, dynamics processing, highpass filter, and signal routing. In addition, the Fat Channel provides a 4-band fully parametric EQ and an upgraded gate / expander with Key Filter and Key Listen features. The unit has a 31-band graphic EQ with 4 stereo, 31-band graphic EQs available to the main, subgroup, and aux outputs. The graphic EQ's settings can be stored and recalled individually or as part of a mix scene.

There's more -- the StudioLive 24.4.2 has two stereo 32-bit effects processors, stereo tape sends and returns, a talkback section, stereo S/PDIF digital output, high-headroom, and 24-bit, 48 kHz digital converters with 118 dB dynamic range.

According to PreSonus, latency is so low that you can use your host program and plugins with the StudioLive in real-time for live performances. As an additional plus, the StudioLive comes bundled with PreSonus Capture 1.1 recording software.

For more information, visit the PreSonus Web site.