PreSonus StudioLive Series III 24R Digital Rack Mixer - Powerful

Our review of the StudioLive Series III 24R finds it best suited to live sound engineers and small-to-mid sized studios that need a recallable, networked rack mixer with strong recording features. The 24R doubles as an AVB stage box or a fully recallable rack mixer, and its biggest selling point is that every input and mix can be recalled with plug-in style processing, making consistent monitor and FOH setups much easier to manage. The unit's combination of XMAX Class A mic preamps, FlexMix routing and both USB and AVB multitrack interfaces gives it flexible workflows for gigs and multitrack recording.

Key Features

• AVB Stage Box Modes: Operates as a simple stage box or as a combined stage box plus monitor mixer, offering remote control of preamps and phantom power from Series III consoles.
• Fully Recallable Mixer: Stores channel settings and Fat Channel processing so engineers can instantly recall complex setups between shows or sessions.
• 24 Mic/Line Inputs: Twenty-four locking combo inputs with recallable XMAX Class A mic preamps deliver clean, consistent gain structure for live drums and full-band recording.
• Flexible Mix Routing: Sixteen FlexMixes and four dedicated subgroups allow aux mixes, subgroups or matrix mixes for flexible monitor and broadcast routing.
• Multitrack Recording Interfaces: Built-in 40x40 USB 2.0 and 55x55 AVB recording interfaces plus onboard SD stereo recording let you capture live performances and multitrack sessions.
• Integrated Software Bundle: Includes UC Surface remote control for multiple platforms and Studio One Artist for recording and editing on Mac and Windows.

Who It's For

The StudioLive 24R is a strong fit for live sound professionals running theater, club and outdoor events who need reliable connectivity and recallable scenes; customers praise its sound quality and recording capability for capturing full drum kits and multitrack gigs. It also suits project studios and rehearsal spaces that want a rackable mixer with built-in AVB networking and a straightforward plug-in style workflow.

Less appropriate for hobbyists who only need a small analog mixer or those who do not require networked AVB routing and multitrack I/O, as the 24R is designed around recallable digital workflows and stage integration rather than an ultra-simple analog setup.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Recallable XMAX Class A preamps and Fat Channel processing provide consistent, high-quality sound across sessions.
• Extensive routing with 16 FlexMixes and 4 subgroups supports complex monitor and broadcast setups.
• Robust recording options including 40x40 USB, 55x55 AVB and onboard SD stereo recording for live tracking.
• Includes UC Surface control and Studio One Artist for integrated remote control and recording workflows.

Cons

• Connectivity and customization receive mixed feedback from some customers, indicating a learning curve for advanced AVB setups.
• Not aimed at users who want a very small or purely analog mixer solution.

Specifications

Channels	24 mic/line inputs + 8 digital channels (26 total inputs)
Mic Preamps	24 locking combo inputs with recallable XMAX Class A preamps
Mix Buses	16 FlexMixes and 4 dedicated subgroups
Recording I/O	40x40 USB 2.0 and 55x55 AVB interfaces
Onboard Recording	Stereo recording to SD card
Processing	Fat Channel with vintage EQ and Compressor modes, A/B compare
Control Software	UC Surface for Mac, Windows, iPad, Android; Capture and Studio One Artist included

Our Verdict

The StudioLive Series III 24R is a powerful, recallable rack mixer that offers excellent sound quality, flexible routing and extensive recording options, making it a good value for live engineers and small studios who need consistent setups and multitrack capture. Its AVB networking and software bundle extend its usefulness onstage and in the control room.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the 24R be used as a stage box only?
Yes, it can operate as a simple AVB stage box or as a combined stage box and monitor mixer with remote preamp control.

Does it support multitrack recording?
Yes, it offers 40x40 USB 2.0 and 55x55 AVB recording interfaces plus onboard stereo SD recording.

Is remote control available on mobile devices?
Yes, UC Surface supports Mac, Windows, iPad and Android and the QMix-UC app provides personal monitoring control.