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Unofficial Mackie User Forums => DL1608/DL806/DL32R/ProDX Mixers => Topic started by: Keyboard Magic on May 13, 2015, 11:41:01 PM

Title: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on May 13, 2015, 11:41:01 PM
I have a feeling this was discussed sometime in the past here, but not sure. If it was, please just ignore my senior moment?  x(

Just noticed that my local music store Long & McQuade is selling the Soundcraft Ui-12 at $548 Cdn and the Ui-16 for $749 Cdn. They are in stock too. They look like they may be in direct competition to the DL806/1608 platform.

Kind of different looking with built in WIFI, probably 2.4GHz only and HTML5 browser based app. It looks like it has some added features and similar ones to the DL. I realize that these are acquisitions repackaged, rebranded and updated from the SMPro U-Mix series.

The Ui-16 only has 12 XLR (8 combi and 4 std) inputs plus RCA stereo and 2 USB, 1 for playback (Built in media player) and 1 for recording (2 track only). I’m sure most here have done the research on this one, but I am curious if it is a serious contender to the original DL platform?

Oh the browser based app is quite cool too.  8) Here's a direct link to Soundcraft if you want to check this out.  :)

http://www.soundcraft.com/products/ui16
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: robbocurry on May 14, 2015, 12:37:23 AM
Hope it sounds better than it looks!
It's a fugly ucker to my eyes! :o :o
A face only it's mother could love :lol:
Sorry for being so superficial but that is brutal looking.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on May 14, 2015, 12:41:22 AM
Hope it sounds better than it looks!
It's a fugly ucker to my eyes! :o :o

Too mucking fuch?   :mrgreen:  It might be okay, I may check it out at Long and McQuade for fun this week, since it's in stock.  Give it a whirl, as it were.  ;) If it's anywhere comparable to the EPM 12 analog mixer I had a while back, it should theoretically sound good. The Ears have it, gotta listen to it first before I come to any contusions about it.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: gerenm63 on May 14, 2015, 01:15:48 AM
On a feature-per-feature comparison, they're more akin to the Behringer XR12 and XR16 -- sorta. The closest direct competitors to the original DL1608 are the Behringer X18 or the Phonic Acapela16 (http://www.phonic.com/en/acapela-16.html).
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: RoadRanger on May 14, 2015, 01:26:42 AM
First company that packs a DL1608 (or better) into a 2U shallow rack gets my $$$. This is a 4U with only four monitor feeds - not even close :( .
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: ijpengelly on May 14, 2015, 05:36:05 AM
The HDMI out for a monitor is quite cool, even better if it allowed touchscreen capabilities.

It is a bit utilitarian and only 12 inputs on the upper model. I think I did try the software app for this and there were some good features. The colour scheme and effects inserts seem to be pretty decent.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on May 14, 2015, 02:56:16 PM
The HDMI out for a monitor is quite cool, even better if it allowed touchscreen capabilities.

It is a bit utilitarian and only 12 inputs on the upper model. I think I did try the software app for this and there were some good features. The colour scheme and effects inserts seem to be pretty decent.

I was trying the demo app on my touchscreen laptop and it's pretty decent, although I am still spoiled for Master Fader.  ;) Come on Mackie, for a 2U rack version to compete with all the other ones out there.  :) DL24R anyone?
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: James91104 on May 14, 2015, 03:28:41 PM
First company that packs a DL1608 (or better) into a 2U shallow rack gets my $$$. This is a 4U with only four monitor feeds - not even close :( .
So fugly ucker aside, any offering from first one out to market with 16 non-recall pre`s, 2 lacking FX, and 1 control platform are OK, just so long as the form factor fits 19" wide?
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: RoadRanger on May 14, 2015, 07:21:53 PM
First company that packs a DL1608 (or better) into a 2U shallow rack gets my $$$. This is a 4U with only four monitor feeds - not even close :( .
So fugly ucker aside, any offering from first one out to market with 16 non-recall pre`s, 2 lacking FX, and 1 control platform are OK, just so long as the form factor fits 19" wide?
It's assumed recallable/remoteable pre's will be required to fit the 2U space. IPad only is fine with me. A second carpy 'verb would do me fine :) . I'm hoping whoever is blocking that in the DL1608 (probably upper level Marketing) soon chokes on their own BS >:D .
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: James91104 on May 15, 2015, 12:44:08 AM
I'm hoping whoever is blocking that in the DL1608 (probably upper level Marketing) soon chokes on their own BS >:D .
Oh Oh, did we inadvertently disengage the mute button? :lol:
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on May 15, 2015, 01:13:46 AM
We can only surmise at this point in time that Mackie hopefully is playing catch up to the other products out there. Maybe they’re already taking design hints from all the current contenders available now? Who knows?

But I really don’t think or hope that they are sitting on their laurels by letting the competition corner the market share in new rack/box type small format digital mixers.They would literally be shooting themselves in their collective foot (feet) by ignoring this fact. Fingers crossed.

And to dispel any rumors to the contrary, I am not Mackie’s new QC Department.  ;)
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: WK154 on May 15, 2015, 02:04:27 AM
KM I thought you started out in the QC dept. and even rejected the first DL that came across your desk. ;) RR it must have been that sync problem again the mute was hit but it wasn't listening.  >:D Poor BenO under attack again. ;D 
KM don't worry none of these mfgr's learn from each others mistakes. Take Be... X-Air with the WiFi antique radio (b/g) and a 10/100 Ethernet chip. Those pennies must add up. :) Soundcraft thinking it can survive out there also with a WiFi antique and no wired fallback, that's a show stopper. Correction they have hidden away the wired connection and a few other surprises previously undocumented. Clearly a contender. They do have the cross platform problem solved (HTML).  QSC almost had it right but started out with a software problem in WiFi. They at least can replace the WiFi dongle with newer tech or have a USB fallback with the right software. They do have a wired solution in place. So in the under $1200 market the only reliable choice IMO seems to be the X32 rack till the rest get the kinks worked out.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: robbocurry on May 15, 2015, 06:13:05 AM
Not sure what price it is USD, but don't forget the absolutely wonderful, fantastic sounding, reliable, front panel controllable, expandable, multichannel USB recordable, solidly built, beautifully designed and manufactured A&H Qu-Pac WK ;)
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: WK154 on May 15, 2015, 07:22:24 AM
A tad above the $1200 at Sweetwater at $1499. Now in stock.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: robbocurry on May 15, 2015, 09:35:41 AM
A tad above the $1200 at Sweetwater at $1499. Now in stock.
😉👍🏼
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on May 15, 2015, 12:48:42 PM
KM I thought you started out in the QC dept. and even rejected the first DL that came across your desk. ;) Soundcraft thinking it can survive out there also with a WiFi antique and no wired fallback, that's a show stopper.

My DL bricked and “returned” it within the 30 day return policy with the music store I bought it at, for a full refund. QC indeed. Still happily using one at the school and on permanent loan to myself when I need it. This one is almost 2 years old and not one twitch out of it. Minor software issues aside, which have been addressed by Mackie.

The Ui-12/16 both have an Ethernet port and a quote from the Ui web page:

“Both mixers also offer independent network interfaces on board for simultaneous control by Wi-Fi and Ethernet”

Which might be a good possibility that you can direct connect a laptop to it and even use that Apple AirPort Express too.

And to be fair, I have been looking hard at the X32 rack too. I like the X32 Mix app almost as much as Master Fader. I'm not going to discount any particular product, if it "fits the bill" as it were.  :)
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: WK154 on May 15, 2015, 03:46:49 PM
Great find KM. I was going by their first manual where they forgot to tell the tech writer those minor details. They've since added on chapter 10.1 which describes the wired Ethernet. The side pic which was also missing shows two more USB A plugs a foot switch and a HDMI port. Since they're not on the shelf yet time will tell what works, although I never found Soundcraft lacking. So the show must go on, I corrected post. They are however light (no specs) on WiFi radio details.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on May 15, 2015, 04:57:00 PM
No specs can be found on the built in wireless, but I have recently been corresponding with Soundcraft via email. I had a question about running the demo on the iPad, and consequently have just asked about the wireless capabilities of the Ui-16.

They responded in a very timely fashion, so I should hear back soon. But at least with an Ethernet port, I presume any quality dual band wireless router can be used with it. Long & McQuade here have some in stock. (Ui-16) It would be fun to go check it out, just the same. New Toys.  :angel:

This app seems to be fairly easy to navigate for a "newbie" on it. But MF is still the easiest to use out of all of them IMHO. Don't think I'm straying from the Mackie stable just yet though. Time will tell.  ;) Gotta have an open mind just the same. Although you do lose more of your brain that way!  :lol:
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: WK154 on May 15, 2015, 09:58:48 PM
What's that old saying "old habits are hard to break". ;)
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on May 15, 2015, 10:20:16 PM
What's that old saying "old habits are hard to break". ;)

Indeed! And "You can't teach an old dog new tricks" But I always try to challenge myself. Haven't even explored all of MF's new features yet. But certainly want to learn more about it. Gotta keep those brain cells working.  ;)
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Wynnd on May 16, 2015, 07:16:32 AM
I find all the talk about leaving Mackie for the "latest and greatest" digital mixer a bit weird.  People do move on, but with my DL1608 getting better with every software upgrade, I don't see a reason to leave anytime soon.  It's been nearly 2 years and I'm looking at 5 years minimum.  Will I still be wanting to do this when I'm 70?  Better question would be will I still be able to do this when I'm 70? 
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: dpdan on May 16, 2015, 01:36:27 PM
will I still be able to do this when I'm 70?

you betcha!
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on May 16, 2015, 02:09:39 PM
I find all the talk about leaving Mackie for the "latest and greatest" digital mixer a bit weird.  People do move on, but with my DL1608 getting better with every software upgrade, I don't see a reason to leave anytime soon.  It's been nearly 2 years and I'm looking at 5 years minimum.  Will I still be wanting to do this when I'm 70?  Better question would be will I still be able to do this when I'm 70?

My OP wasn’t about moving on. It was posted to generate discussion comparing the Ui mixers to the original DL platform. I have the use of a perfectly good DL1608 and have no need to buy anything at this time.

I'm waiting to see what's coming next from Mackie in particular. I think it’s always a good thing to cultivate all the options whether you’re in the market or not. And it’s cool to see what the other “guy” has or has not too.  ;)
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on May 16, 2015, 08:34:21 PM
Will I still be wanting to do this when I'm 70?  Better question would be will I still be able to do this when I'm 70?

I plan on going out in a blaze playing. I think it's all a state of mind. If you are passionate enough playing and running sound, there should be no reason why you or I or anyone else can't continue sharing our art right through our 70's and beyond. When I'm in my late 80s I plan to be wheeled up to that organ, lifted on the bench and cut loose with the same amount energy I do now. Well, almost the same amount.  :lol:

That custom scooter's gonna have a top of the line Roland Atelier Organ and killer sound system with sub, built in though!  :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: James91104 on May 16, 2015, 10:38:36 PM
I plan on going out in a blaze playing.

Riley Ben King played to the end at 89. Anthony Dominick "Tony" Benedetto is still performing at 88. My money is on KM, with some time to pimp out that scooter 8)
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on May 16, 2015, 11:44:02 PM
I plan on going out in a blaze playing.

Riley Ben King played to the end at 89. Anthony Dominick "Tony" Benedetto is still performing at 88. My money is on KM, with some time to pimp out that scooter 8)

The scooter is in the very early design stage at the moment.  ;)
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Wynnd on May 17, 2015, 03:07:16 AM
I had the pleasure of seeing Jimmy Smith at 75.  He needed help getting up the steps to the stage, but all that fragility vanished with the first Hammond note.  He's gone now, but was an inspiration for many of us keyboard players.  Thanks to Pat Bianchi for the loan of his homebound B3 and leslies for Jimmy.  (not mic'd.  Pat is probably the best jazz organist living in Denver.) 
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: pytchley on May 17, 2015, 09:10:30 AM
It's not over yet Wynnd. I was in a band that opened up for the "Tribute to Muddy Waters" band in 1994. I think the eldest member was Pinetop Perkins who impressed us at 81. They blew us away completely!.... he died at 97 and was still gigging regularly!
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: RoadRanger on May 17, 2015, 02:29:46 PM
There's a bit of a difference with being helped onto the stage and handed your guitar at 80 vs humping an entire PA and light show at 80 :( .
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: dpdan on May 17, 2015, 06:45:20 PM
There's a bit of a difference with being helped onto the stage and handed your guitar at 80 vs humping an entire PA and light show at 80 :( .
you got that right, as my Mom would watch me load the equipment she used to say,,,
"you should've taken flute  :)"
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on May 17, 2015, 07:27:07 PM
There's a bit of a difference with being helped onto the stage and handed your guitar at 80 vs humping an entire PA and light show at 80 :( .
you got that right, as my Mom would watch me load the equipment she used to say,,,
"you should've taken flute  :)"

Amen to that! I think the weight of the gear is in direct proportion as to how old you are. The stuff is already getting too heavy, at least some days.  x(  ;)
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: RoadRanger on May 17, 2015, 08:41:57 PM
I think my amp rack with three stereo amps (about 6kw total power) in it is about 35 lbs. My active tops are 29 lbs each (I think) and my 2x12 subs are 34 lbs each. My monitors are about 25 lbs each. I don't think I can shave much more weight off of anything - although I do have a 4 channel 2U amp to swap in for two of the others in that rack :) .
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on May 17, 2015, 11:40:55 PM
I think my amp rack with three stereo amps (about 6kw total power) in it is about 35 lbs. My active tops are 29 lbs each (I think) and my 2x12 subs are 34 lbs each. My monitors are about 25 lbs each. I don't think I can shave much more weight off of anything - although I do have a 4 channel 2U amp to swap in for two of the others in that rack :) .

You do have a wee bit there too. It's tough to cut back when you really need to have all that "wee bit" there most of all the time . ;)
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: dpdan on May 18, 2015, 12:39:35 AM
how quickly times change, here are some comparisons of some gear I have had in the past and what I use now.

Crest two channel power amps............................. QSC PLD 4.5 four channel power amps       
8 channels of power,........................................... 16 channels of power
1200 watts per Ch. @ 4 ohms.............................. 1250 watts per channel @ 4 ohms 
each amp draws 30 amps.................................... each amp draws about 12 amps with four channels being driven close to clipping
weight 95 pounds each....................................... weight 22 pounds each 
four amps in a 14 space case about 500 pounds..... four amps in two SKB four space cases about 50 pounds each   

500 pounds verses 100 pounds,
twice the power,
twice the channels count,
a tenth of the weight,

cost of hernia surgery from the old gear 7 grand  :eek:

32 channel Allen & Heath console with snake and two effects racks,... about 240 pounds, but not including the table and power cable that it needs verses.....
a Mackie DL32R,... 18 pounds and replaces the snake and both racks of outboard gear, no table or extension cord needed. Not to mention expensive gaff tape.

tear down time of Allen & Heath analog console, effects racks, EQ's, and S wrap the 40 channel snake about 10-15 minutes even with multi-pin connectors verses.....
a Mackie DL32R about one minute.... = one four space case which includes way more outboard gear than the analog setup.   
 
My speakers have NOT been on a diet  :) And I wouldn't change those.

Absolutely amazing!   :facepalm: :facepalm: :facepalm: :facepalm: :facepalm:


 
 
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Greg C. on May 18, 2015, 05:24:07 PM
500 pounds verses 100 pounds,
twice the power,
twice the channels count,
a tenth of the weight,

cost of hernia surgery from the old gear 7 grand  :eek:

Come on guys, real men use heavy f'in 15-20 year old Crest Audio lead weight amps!

Thanks one of my racks on the bottom. It's about 300 lb.  :P

I'm investigating light weight amps to power my stuff for someday when I have money. I've been told by my speaker designer to go with Lab Gruppen for comparable performance to the old iron. Not inexpensive...
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: dpdan on May 18, 2015, 08:07:30 PM
YEP! those are the amps    :)

Lab Gruppen is great, but severely overpriced IMO.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: RoadRanger on May 18, 2015, 08:14:19 PM
IMO Lab Gruppen don't sound any different than QSC or Peavey IPR (also available as the somewhat "better" Crest Pro-Lite). The processing might be more useful to you though. Heck, even my Behringer NU3000 sounds just fine on sub duty - even 100% loaded (bridged into two Danley TH-Mini's).
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Greg C. on May 18, 2015, 08:18:25 PM
IMO Lab Gruppen don't sound any different than QSC or Peavey IPR (also available as the somewhat "better" Crest Pro-Lite). The processing might be more useful to you though. Heck, even my Behringer NU3000 sounds just fine on sub duty - even 100% loaded (bridged into two Danley TH-Mini's).

The IPR2s do look interesting. Someone who did a teardown of it vs. the Crest version said the differences seemed minor. The main one being that they put the PCB upside-down in one vs. the other. I'm assuming the Crest uses a some more robust components in key places relative to the IPR2.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: RoadRanger on May 18, 2015, 09:20:17 PM
The IPR2s do look interesting. Someone who did a teardown of it vs. the Crest version said the differences seemed minor. The main one being that they put the PCB upside-down in one vs. the other. I'm assuming the Crest uses a some more robust components in key places relative to the IPR2.
I was told that the IPR/Pro-Lite is a joint design - Peavey designed the power supply section and Crest designed the amp section. The Crest supposedly has a stronger power supply and better heat sinking - and has more of the DSP enabled in the DSP version. If I was looking for an EDM sub amp I'd definitely go with the Crest version.
Also if you have to meet riders Crest isn't on the "no fly" list ;) .
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on May 19, 2015, 12:34:23 AM
To get back to the OP, if anyone is interested? I ran the Ui-16 HTML5 app on my iPad Air 2 and it was very responsive. I then loaded it on my older iPad 2 and there was a significant noticeable lag in all the faders and different functions, very similar to the lag experienced with MF 3.X on older iPads.

The lag issue is of course subjective and probably wouldn’t be a big issue to a lot of people but it was there with this particular app and MF 3.X. This might suggest that they are more demanding on certain older iPad models. As evidenced by myself that this one and MF 3.X run as they were meant to on the new iPad Air 2.

My HTML knowledge is extremely limited and can't say why it would or not require more system resources to work properly. If the more learned here can chime in, it would be appreciated.  :)
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: WK154 on May 21, 2015, 02:07:50 PM
Based on your observations the problem lies with the browser, which brings me to the question. What browser did you use? I would guess that it was Safari. It would have been interesting to compare it to Chrome.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on May 21, 2015, 02:30:33 PM
Based on your observations the problem lies with the browser, which brings me to the question. What browser did you use? I would guess that it was Safari. It would have been interesting to compare it to Chrome.

I was using Safari. Might be interesting to download Chrome to see if there's any difference.  :) It works great on the laptop under IE11 and Windows 8.1 update.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on May 25, 2015, 11:02:48 PM
So if anyone is interested? I just loaded Google Chrome on the old iPad 2. I wanted to see if the Ui-16 App would lag just like it did running under Safari.

There's definitely a lag in all the faders and functions running on Chrome, but not near as much as on Safari on the iPad 2. Like I mentioned in my OP, running the HTML5 app on the iPad Air 2 is the best, no visible lag at all. Of course this is all subjective to the person running the app.  8)
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: James91104 on May 26, 2015, 05:34:34 AM
KM, so my report.

iPad mini 1/ iOS 8.0/ 32gig/ Safari, Chrome, Atomic Lite: no lag. Meters fluid. Scroll smooth. Multi-touch OK.

iPad 2/ iOS 7.1.2/ 64gig/
Safari : no lag. Meters fluid. Scroll smooth. Multi-touch OK.
Chrome : Tiny lag. Meters fluid. Scroll rough. Multi-touch OK.
Atomic Lite: Tiny lag. Meters fluid. Scroll rough. Multi-touch on EQ OK, faders limited.

iPad 1/ iOS 5.1.1/ 32gig/
Safari, Chrome: Slight lag. Meters choppy. Scroll is rough. Multi-touch OK.
Atomic Lite: Slight lag. Meters choppy. Scroll is bad. Multi-touch EQ OK, faders limited.

IMO and experience with the demo app, performance is as quick or quicker than any other mixer iOS app running on the aforementioned iPad mini. I look forward to a future real deal demo. Curious if a 24 channel version is in the wings ported over from SMPro.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Topsøe on May 26, 2015, 05:47:43 AM
I seem to remember that SM-Pro used to recomend the Atomic Web Browser for best perfomance on ipads
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: James91104 on May 26, 2015, 06:24:28 AM
I seem to remember that SM-Pro used to recomend the Atomic Web Browser for best perfomance on ipads
Ditto that, but primarily for the full screen capability IFAIK.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: James91104 on May 26, 2015, 07:20:21 PM
Furthermore, a Google Nexus 7 (2013) 32 gig running Soundcraft UI-16 demo app :
Google Chrome performs with no lag, smooth scrolling, fluid meters, multi-touch all OK.
Mozilla Firefox performs with lag, rough scrolling, fluid meters, multi-touch ok.

Note though that the demo app appears to represent a 24 channel device and not a 12 or 16 channel. With this larger representation, I find that the scrolling of 46 faders in the full view to be a bit much, so the factory and user view groups assist nicely with such.

26 Shows, 26 Snapshots, 26 Factory & 26 User presets for input & output 4 band para DBX EQ, Deesser (mic ins) & Dynamics, Lexicon Reverb, Delay, Chorus FX, and Digitech amp modeler each, DBX 12 filter AFS2 (auxs), 31 band Graphic EQ & Dynamics on all Aux & Main outs, HDMI out, Ethernet port & integrated WiFi with 10 device cross-platform connectivity limit, USB multi-format Playback port (mp3,wav,aiff,aac,ogg,flac), USB Record port for direct to device stereo 16,24,or 32 bit (? format?), 6 assignable sub,view, & mute groups each, 8 xlr/1/4"combi-inputs with 2 Hi-Z, all with recallable gain, phantom power & polarity on all mic pre inputs, cable pass-thru rack-ear cut-outs, FX mute footswitch 1/4" jack, available now for $550 U.S.D. \\ Whew  :P

There is a lot to like.
Not to like: (wish list)
only pre/post fader aux send choice.
only Graphi Q for outputs; no choice of para or graph, or even better would be both implemented. 
limited gate, comp, and AFS2 control.
no USB Digi-Audio multi-track-out record and/or PC/Mac Asio.
no USB Digi-Audio multi-track in select.

Was informed by a Harman rep that a 16 mic-in unit is slated for future release, date and price TBD.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: WK154 on May 27, 2015, 12:37:18 AM
Most likely my next toy. Somebody finally got the GUi part right. It only took 7 years of my bugging him, for my friend to migrate to HTML (10 yrs ago) for his app but now he never looks back. A QC program for the semi industry such as Intel, IBM etc.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on May 30, 2015, 06:45:08 PM
As with the Behringer series, there are alternative control options available to you. As we all know. This gives you a bit more of a confidence level running shows. Not having to depend on the wireless and only iPad control is a bonus.

But with a current 433 plus votes (that I could find more or less) on the Mackie Feature Request site for an alternative control option (Windows, Mac, Android etc.) for the DL Line, it may just happen in the near future. Only if Mackie is listening and watching. Fingers crossed.

PS: I forgot the 936 for Android.  :facepalm: Surely with the overwhelming votes? Probably not.  :(
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: nottooloud on June 02, 2015, 04:27:24 PM
it may just happen in the near future. Only if Mackie is listening and watching. Fingers crossed.

They've knocked a bunch of things off that list.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: WK154 on June 02, 2015, 05:53:31 PM
it may just happen in the near future. Only if Mackie is listening and watching. Fingers crossed.

They've knocked a bunch of things off that list.
Oh yeah! Anything they don't want to tackle that are already on the DL32 they will consider done even though it's a list for the DL1608 and it's sibling. Just buy a DL32 it's that simple. :lol:
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on June 02, 2015, 06:52:44 PM
it may just happen in the near future. Only if Mackie is listening and watching. Fingers crossed.

They've knocked a bunch of things off that list.
Oh yeah! Anything they don't want to tackle that are already on the DL32 they will consider done even though it's a list for the DL1608 and it's sibling. Just buy a DL32 it's that simple. :lol:

You're probably right. I was expecting too much again.  :facepalm: No DL32 in my foreseeable future though, especially at $2400.00 CDN plus tax. It would be hardware overkill for what I would use it for too. If one fell off the back of a truck mind you.  ;) I know, it would be in pieces.  :( Aren't they supposed to be built like a tank?  ;)

Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: WK154 on June 03, 2015, 01:57:00 AM
Words of wisdom from a Muso.
 “I believe in everything until it's disproved. So I believe in fairies, the myths, dragons. It all exists, even if it's in your mind. Who's to say that dreams and nightmares aren't as real as the here and now?”
― John Lennon
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on June 07, 2015, 02:14:34 PM
So if anyone here was going to buy a small platform digital mixer right now and could only buy the DL1608 or the Soundcraft UI-16, which one would you buy on a feature per feature comparision? Looks notwithstanding.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: gerenm63 on June 08, 2015, 06:12:35 PM
So if anyone here was going to buy a small platform digital mixer right now and could only buy the DL1608 or the Soundcraft UI-16, which one would you buy on a feature per feature comparision? Looks notwithstanding.

I'd buy the Mackie. Despite its perceived shortcomings, the DL has 16 bona fide inputs, as opposed to the misleading Soundcraft spec of 12 XLR ins, a stereo pair of RCAs and a stereo USB in; and 6 auxes on the DL v. 4 on the UI-16. Sure, the non-recallable, non-remote-controllable preamps are inconvenient, and being forced to choose my own router was an added expense, but I really find those to be minor -- choosing my own routers gave me flexibility in choosing what will work best with my iPad/iPhones, and I can carry a couple, in case one is problematic. And, I can take snapshots of the input gain pots at the end of each gig and carry printouts in my mixer case for the next time I work with a particular band. And, as I've said elsewhere, I find the effects to be good enough for what I need -- and I have yet to have a band or band member complain about them.

Basically, I've had nothing to complain about with my DL. It's been a rock solid piece of kit. And that, I can live with!

Now, if you were to open the choice list up to include the Behringer XR18, I might be a little harder pressed to choose. When I bought the DL, I had really wanted the X18, but got tired of waiting (and was offered a really excellent price on a demo DL).
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on June 08, 2015, 09:35:29 PM
I wouldn't give up using the 1608, I do like it very much, but I've been digging into the UI-16 HTML demo app and IMHO it's giving MF a run for it's money. Once you start getting used to it, it's pretty slick and easy to use plus multi platform like the X series, once again in my opinion. And the graphics are nice too.

No I'm not jumping ship, but keeping my options open and fingers crossed that the next generations of MF will catch up, or be even better.  ;)
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: WK154 on June 08, 2015, 10:43:28 PM
KM it's always interesting to compare apples and oranges as you can see from the responses. The more realistic list would be the X32R, XR18, QSC Touchmix, and the DL1608. When Soundcraft finally releases the Ui-24 then they would be in the running. The basis for this would be 16 mic inputs and the almighty $$ and would have to include the cost of any ancillary equipment to make it functional. Can't realistically use a DL1608, Ui-x or a XR18 without a control surface of some kind. Ease of use may dictate a control surface anyways (X32R ,QSC and Touchmix) along with communications gear (router etc.). Lack of reliability may even require duplicate equipment. So the ultimate cost of gear to do a job can vary by a lot even though it may start out similar.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: sam.spoons on June 09, 2015, 08:18:30 AM
I'm keeping my dl1608, love it. The X32 Compact lives in the studio for what little recording I do and, along with my X32 Rack there's my rig for gigs too big for the DL. I'll just hire a big FOH rig if necessary and I can cope with anything thrown at me. Happy days  :)
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: ijpengelly on June 09, 2015, 09:04:56 PM
Sam, I have a HK Projector rig if you are ever stuck for a larger FOH mate. Like you I'll be sticking with the DL1608 unless I find a compelling reason to upgrade to something with more channels and at the moment I am most taken by the Presonus RM32AI. However, it looks like I'll be helping a friend with a festival later this month, so will get some experience with an X32 rack. Will be interesting to see how the iPad app works in practice for that.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: sam.spoons on June 09, 2015, 11:49:32 PM
Thanks for the offer, I really like the HK Projector rig, I do a lot of work for a local PA Hire outfit and the boss' first FOH rig was a Projector. I was very sorry when he sold it (it wasn't getting enough use and I did consider buying it but it was too big for me to transport/store at the time). We replaced it with various JBL PRX boxes, I'm not sure if they are significantly better but they are a much more practical/scalable system (and the 12"s do sound very nice though I'm less keen on the 15"'s).

I upgraded my own rig a couple of years ago now to QSC K12s and a single EV sBa750 sub (which I already had) for FOH and 3 x Yamaha DXR10s plus 2 x Alto TS110As for monitors (which have always been loud enough for anything I've been asked to do, gain before feedback rears it's ugly head before they run out of steam TBH). It's a nice sounding rig (I love the K12s) and fits in the back of my VW Golf if pressed.  :thu:

I'm very happy with the X32 Compact and just getting to grips with the Rack. I've only done a couple of gigs with the Compact (the DL is tried, tested, trusted and has enough I/O for most of my gigs) but the rack will probably take over from the DL for all but the smallest gigs as I get familiar with the app. I'll still have the DL in the car as a backup though.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: ijpengelly on June 10, 2015, 06:05:09 AM
No worries mate. Sounds like you run a similar sized rig to me, I have the SbA760s and can just get two of those with my RCF 312A in for front of house, then monitors. It does for most venues, but I found I was doing a few more outdoor festivals and weekend hire for FOH was not cheap, plus collecting it etc. so took the punt on the HK as it was a really good deal. I was not disappointed.

With your X32 Compact and rack, so you run them with an Ethernet cable between so you can use the rack as a stage box?
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: sam.spoons on June 11, 2015, 12:44:19 PM
Haven't done it yet but that's the plan, I have bought a 30M Cat6 snake for that purpose. Just a matter of making it work now :)

I'll shout if I need the extra watts, as I said I do like the Projector. I'm sort of semi-retired now so, while I do a couple of dozen PA gigs a year and about the same playing gigs I probably only need the X32 for two or three of them. It was a bit of an extravagance (especially when I added the Rack) TBH but at least I'm set up for anything I'll ever be asked to do now  8)
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on June 25, 2015, 02:48:39 PM
If anyone's interested;

I just found out from the horses mouth that you cannot create snapshots and save them on your tablet/laptop, etc. when disconnected from the Ui itself. Bummer. But you can (obviously) use an external wireless router to replace the internal 2.4 GHz built in wireless device. That's a plus not having to relegate that expensive external wireless router (cough, cough, Apple?) to a spot on a shelf in your man cave to collect dust.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: WK154 on June 25, 2015, 05:08:14 PM
Didn't they design that to be a paperweight? ;D KM in your case a coaster for your coffee cup.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on June 26, 2015, 12:52:10 AM
Didn't they design that to be a paperweight? ;D KM in your case a coaster for your coffee cup.

That slide out tray thingy on my laptop holds my drinks. More convenient.  ;)
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: WK154 on June 26, 2015, 02:50:07 AM
Didn't they design that to be a paperweight? ;D KM in your case a coaster for your coffee cup.

That slide out tray thingy on my laptop holds my drinks. More convenient.  ;)
Yeah but it leaves a hell of a mess when you hit the close button. :) The express not only heats your coffee with RF but it also sits there looking stupid.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on June 29, 2015, 01:16:25 AM
Didn't they design that to be a paperweight? ;D KM in your case a coaster for your coffee cup.

That slide out tray thingy on my laptop holds my drinks. More convenient.  ;)
Yeah but it leaves a hell of a mess when you hit the close button. :) The express not only heats your coffee with RF but it also sits there looking stupid.

At least the express is still working as it should, actually from day one, but at least I can nuke some pop-corn with it between numbers.  :mrgreen:

And back onto the OP for a commercial break: When you switch the phantom power in on whatever channel (s) you need it, the Ui mutes the channel automatically, to eliminate any pops reaching your FOH, monitors and headphones etc and then unmutes once everything is settled.  8) 
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: WK154 on June 29, 2015, 08:34:02 AM
It's always good that someone pays attention to operational details and features that make sense. +1 for Soundcraft.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Kev tyler on June 29, 2015, 09:27:25 AM
The soundcraft app looks good on iOS, I tried downloading the win software but suspect it wants to see the console. Does anyone have a link to a win demo please?

Ta

Kev
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: WK154 on June 29, 2015, 03:58:47 PM
In the NAMM15 U-Tube presentation our fast talking rep stated that the built in radio is dual but I see no evidence of this in the manual. It either does not exist or it's automatic. Worth the ask of Soundcraft.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on June 29, 2015, 04:50:02 PM
In the NAMM15 U-Tube presentation our fast talking rep stated that the built in radio is dual but I see no evidence of this in the manual. It either does not exist or it's automatic. Worth the ask of Soundcraft.

From my phone conversation with the Canadian distributor of Sound Craft in Montreal, the Ui models only have 2.4GHz wireless built in. It's smart there's an Ethernet port built in to enable the use of an external dual wireless band router of your preference.  ;)
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: WK154 on June 29, 2015, 07:26:41 PM
That's unfortunate, the lesson in that is don't believe everything manufacturers tell you or advertise. Why is it that the audio industry designs EOL (end of life) products into their new toys? Most even cost more than the new replacements such as the 10/100 vs. 10/100/1000 Ethernet chips. ::) Without that Ethernet port (wired connection) this product would be useless.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on June 29, 2015, 08:41:24 PM
I quite agree. I’ve been lurking on one of the Ui forums and reading about the little bugs and how everyone is waiting for firmware updates to fix them and add more features and so on. Sounds familiar indeed. We are all in the same boat I think, no matter what we own. It all boils down to which issues and features are a big deal and what you can live with to run those gigs to make a living.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: robbocurry on July 06, 2015, 04:15:36 PM
Qu-Pac is the business.
Turned up at a gig last week without my iPads - they forgot to load themselves into the van after getting some music added ;D
Did the gig from the QU-PAC touch sensitive front panel - quick and easy.
It's a very usable interface and not like an 80's mobile phone menu......
Worth considering whenever the wifi, cat5 & HTML worlds are conspiring against you.
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: Keyboard Magic on July 06, 2015, 04:52:42 PM
Qu-Pac is the business.
Turned up at a gig last week without my iPads - they forgot to load themselves into the van after getting some music added ;D
Did the gig from the QU-PAC touch sensitive front panel - quick and easy.
It's a very usable interface and not like an 80's mobile phone menu......
Worth considering whenever the wifi, cat5 & HTML worlds are conspiring against you.

Ah, so you are still around? Excellent. Nice to see you post again! You have to watch that gear, no matter how much training it gets, it's very sneaky!

I've been playing with the Q App and it looks great, but I still can't quite wrap my old brain around it yet. MF still does it for me. And I must shamefully mention that the Soundcraft Ui HTML app is pretty slick too.  :-[ But in all fairness, I will give the Q app some more workouts. You never know.  ;)
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: sam.spoons on July 06, 2015, 05:08:24 PM
I quite agree. I’ve been lurking on one of the Ui forums and reading about the little bugs and how everyone is waiting for firmware updates to fix them and add more features and so on. Sounds familiar indeed. We are all in the same boat I think, no matter what we own. It all boils down to which issues and features are a big deal and what you can live with to run those gigs to make a living.

Yup, and like the DL, the X32 is a very competent mixer as it stands, any improvements are very much icing on the cake. I guess it's just human nature to complain  :facepalm:
Title: Re: Soundcraft Ui-12 and Ui-16 Original DL Platform Contenders?
Post by: robbocurry on July 07, 2015, 07:19:31 AM
Qu-Pac is the business.
Turned up at a gig last week without my iPads - they forgot to load themselves into the van after getting some music added ;D
Did the gig from the QU-PAC touch sensitive front panel - quick and easy.
It's a very usable interface and not like an 80's mobile phone menu......
Worth considering whenever the wifi, cat5 & HTML worlds are conspiring against you.

Ah, so you are still around? Excellent. Nice to see you post again! You have to watch that gear, no matter how much training it gets, it's very sneaky!

I've been playing with the Q App and it looks great, but I still can't quite wrap my old brain around it yet. MF still does it for me. And I must shamefully mention that the Soundcraft Ui HTML app is pretty slick too.  :-[ But in all fairness, I will give the Q app some more workouts. You never know.  ;)
Still lurking KM!
Been busy with work lately and post very little either here or on the AH forums. The QuPad app got a major upgrade a while back and I'm now well used with it. They've added Haemorroid, sorry, Android support for their personal mix app.
Didn't know MF 3.2 was coming, I mustn't be in the secret club anymore :/
Glad to see you guys are all posting away and you're still the peace maker!