Presonus StudioLive AR8c, StudioLive AR16c, StudioLive AR12c Owner’s Manual
StudioLive™ ARc-Series
Audio Interface/Analog Mixer/Stereo SD Recorder
Owner’s Manual
®
www.presonus.com
English
Table of Contents
1 Overview — 1
1.1 Introduction — 1
1.2 About This Manual — 1
1.3 What is in the Box — 2
1.4 What is in your My PreSonus Account — 2
2 Getting Started — 3
2.1 Level-Setting Procedure — 3
3 Hookup — 5
3.1 Connections and Controls — 5
3.1.1 Inputs — 5
3.1.2 Outputs — 6
3.1.3 Rear Panel Connections — 7
3.2 Channel Controls — 7
3.2.1 Digital Returns — 8
5 Connecting to a Computer — 19
5.1 Installation for Windows — 19
5.1.1 Universal Control (Windows only) — 20
5.1.2 Loopback Recording
(Windows only) — 20
5.1.3 Using the StudioLive for
System Sound — 22
5.2 Installation for macOS — 23
5.2.1 Using the StudioLive for
System Sound — 23
5.3 Using the StudioLive
with Popular Audio Applications — 24
5.4 Digital Sends and Returns — 25
5.4.1 Digital Sends — 25
5.4.2 Digital Returns — 26
6 Capture 2 — 27
3.3 The Super Channel — 9
3.3.1 Pairing a Bluetooth Device — 9
3.4 Aux Buses — 9
3.4.1 Monitor Bus Controls — 10
3.4.2 Creating Monitor Mixes — 10
3.5 Internal FX Bus — 11
3.5.1 Effects Presets — 11
3.5.2 Internal FX Bus Return — 12
3.5.3 Creating Internal Effects Mixes — 12
3.5.4 Using an External Effects Processor — 13
3.6 Master Section Controls — 14
3.6.1 Control Room Levels — 14
3.7 Typical Band Setup Diagram — 15
3.8 Typical Home Studio Setup Diagram — 16
4 SD Recording and Playback — 17
6.1 Installation Instructions — 27
6.1.1 macOS — 27
6.1.2 Windows — 28
6.2 Start Page — 29
6.2.1 Tagging and Organizing a Session — 29
6.2.2 Creating a Session — 30
6.2.3 Open a Session — 31
6.2.4 Audio Device and Sample Rate — 31
6.2.5 Options Menu — 32
6.3 The Session Page — 34
6.3.1 Track Column — 35
6.3.2 Transport — 35
6.3.3 Time Display — 36
6.3.4 Timeline Ruler — 36
6.3.5 Navigating the Session — 36
6.3.6 Editing Tools — 37
4.1 SD Recording — 17
4.2 SD Playback — 18
6.3.7 Meter Bridge — 42
6.3.8 Markers and the Marker List — 42
6.4 Recording a Session in Capture — 44
6.5 Importing and Exporting Audio Files — 45
6.5.1 Importing Audio Files into Capture — 45
6.5.2 Export Audio Files — 46
6.6 Mixing Your Capture Sessions — 47
6.6.1 Exporting Your Final Mix to
an Audio File — 47
6.6.2 Mixing a Capture 2 Session
in Studio One — 47
6.6.3 Mixing a Capture 2 Session in a Different
Recording Application — 47
6.7 Capture 2 Key Commands — 49
7 Studio One Artist Quick Start — 50
7.1 Installation and Authorization — 50
7.2 Setting Up Studio One — 51
7.2.1 Configuring Audio Devices — 52
7.2.2 Configuring MIDI Devices — 53
7.3 Creating a New Song — 56
7.3.1 Configuring Your I/O — 57
7.3.2 Creating Audio and MIDI Tracks — 59
7.3.3 Recording an Audio Track — 60
7.3.4 Adding Virtual Instruments
and Effects — 60
8 Resources — 62
8.1 EQ Frequency Guides — 62
8.2 Block Diagrams — 64
8.2.1 StudioLive AR16c, and AR12c
Block Diagram — 64
8.2.2 StudioLive AR8c Block Diagram — 65
8.3 Recall Sheets — 66
8.3.1 AR16c and AR12c Recall Sheet — 66
8.3.2 AR8c Recall Sheet — 67
8.4 Technical Specifications — 68
9 Troubleshooting — 71
9.1 Troubleshooting — 71
1 Overview
1.1 Introduction
1 Overview
1.1 Introduction
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
Thank you for purchasing a PreSonus® StudioLive™ ARc-series audio interface
analog mixer, the world’s most advanced analog recording system. PreSonus
Audio Electronics has designed the StudioLive ARc-series mixers utilizing highgrade components to ensure optimum performance. Loaded with high-headroom
XMAX microphone preamplifiers; a built-in USB-C™ compatible USB 2.0 recording
and playback engine; parametric EQ on every channel; onboard Bluetooth™
playback; integrated stereo SD recording and playback; a multi-effects processor
with a dedicated mix bus; monitor mixes; extensive LED metering; and more,
StudioLive ARc breaks new boundaries for studio recording and live performance.
All you need are a few microphones and cables, speakers, and your instruments,
and you are ready to mix and record in the studio or in front of a live audience!
We encourage you to contact us with questions or comments regarding
this product. PreSonus Audio Electronics is committed to constant
product improvement, and we value your suggestions highly. We believe
the best way to achieve our goal of constant product improvement is by
listening to the real experts: our valued customers. We appreciate the
support you have shown us through the purchase of this product.
For technical support, please see Section 9.1: Troubleshooting.
1.2 About This Manual
We suggest that you use this manual to familiarize yourself with the features,
applications, and connection procedures before using your StudioLive
ARc-series mixer. This will help you avoid problems during installation and
setup. This manual covers the hardware functions and features of all three
StudioLive ARc-series mixers. When functional differences are called out, the
AR16c will be mentioned first, followed by the AR12c, and then the AR8c.
Licenses and installers for Universal Control, Capture™ and Studio
One® Artist can be found in your My PreSonus user account.
Throughout this manual you will find Power User Tips. These tips provide
mixing tricks, some of which are unique to the StudioLive ARc mixers,
as well as explanations of various audio terms. In addition, you will
find an assortment of audio tutorials throughout this manual.
Thank you, once again, for buying our product. We are confident
that you will enjoy your StudioLive ARc mixer!
1
1 Overview
®
Getting Started • Para empezar • Erste Schritte • Pour commencer • 入门
Package Contents • Contenido del paquete • Lieferumfang • Contenu de l’emballage • 打包内容
StudioLive™ ARc-Series
Hybrid Digital/Analog Production Mixers
Quick Start Guide
StudioLive
™
serie ARc
Consolas híbridas digitales/analógicas para producción
Guía de inicio rápido
StudioLive
™
ARc-Series
Hybrider Digital/Analog-Produktionsmixer
Kurzanleitung
www.presonus.com
You must register online for software downloads,
the Owner’s Manual, and instructional videos.
Go online to my.presonus.com and create — or
log into — your My.PreSonus user account.
Debes registrarte en línea para bajar software, el
manual para el usuario y videos didácticos.
Visita my.presonus.com y regístrate — o entra
usando tu perfil de usuario My.PreSonus.
Bitte registrieren Sie sich auf unserer Webseite, um auf
die Software-Downloads, die Bedienungsanleitung
und die Anleitungsvideos zuzugreifen.
Öffnen Sie die Webseite my.presonus.com und
erstellen Sie ein neues Konto – oder loggen
Sie sich in Ihren My.PreSonus-Konto ein.
StudioLive™ ARc
Mélangeurs de production hybrides numériques/analogiques
Guide de prise en main
StudioLive
™
ARc
系列混合数字/模拟生产调音台
快速入门指南
Vous devez vous enregistrer en ligne pour
les téléchargements de logiciels, le mode
d’emploi, et des vidéos de formation.
Allez sur my.presonus.com et créez – ou connectezvous à – votre compte utilisateur My.PreSonus.
您务必在线注册，以下载软件、用户手册和教学视频。
登录my.presonus.com并创建您的My.PreSonus
用户帐户，或直接登录账号。
1.3 What is in the Box
1.3 What is in the Box
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
In addition to this manual, your StudioLive package contains the following:
• PreSonus StudioLive AR16c, AR12c, or AR8c Audio
Interface / Analog Mixer / Stereo SD Recorder
• 6-foot (1.8-meter), USB cable
• IEC power cord
• Rack ear mounting kit (AR16c only. AR8c and AR12c rack ear mounting kits sold
separately)
• StudioLive ARc-series Quick Start Guide
1.4 What is in your My PreSonus Account
Once you register your StudioLive AR mixer at My.PreSonus.com, you will
find the following software available for download in your user account:
• StudioLive ARc-Series Owners Manual
• Universal Control
• Capture multitrack-recording software
• Studio One Artist DAW software and bundled content
2
2 Getting Started
2.1 Level-Setting Procedure
2 Getting Started
Before you begin, here are a few general rules of thumb:
• Always turn down the Main, Control Room, and Phones
level controls before making connections.
• Before plugging or unplugging a microphone while other channels
are active, mute the channel to which you are connecting.
• Channel levels should be set on or near the “U” mark whenever possible. The “U”
indicates unity gain, meaning the signal is neither boosted nor attenuated.
• Do not allow your inputs to clip. Watch the signal indicators and make sure
the red Clip indication illuminates rarely, if ever. Clipping (overloading)
the inputs can result in digital distortion, which sounds terrible.
Warning: Engaging phantom power or connecting sources without muting the channels
can result in a very loud pop that can potentially damage your sound equipment.
Always mute your channels before engaging Phantom power or connecting sources.
P.A. and studio equipment should be powered on in the following order:
• Sound sources (keyboards, direct boxes, microphones,
etc.) connected to the StudioLive ARc inputs
• StudioLive ARc mixer
• Computer (if applicable)
• Power amplifiers or powered monitors
When it’s time to power down, your system should be turned off in the reverse
order. Now that you know what not to do, let’s get some audio going!
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
2.1 Level-Setting Procedure
1. Grab a microphone and a mic cable and plug them into the
Channel 1 mic input.
2. Connect the Main outputs of your StudioLive ARc to your power amplifier or
powered monitors.
3. Bring down all the level controls on your
StudioLive ARc to the lowest setting.
4. Make sure that the Mic/Line knob on Channel 1 is
turned all the way counter-clockwise.
5. Plug your StudioLive ARc-series mixer into a power outlet and turn it on.
3
2 Getting Started
2.1 Level-Setting Procedure
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
6. If your microphone requires phantom power, engage the 48V button on
your StudioLive ARc mixer.
7. Turn on your amplifier or powered monitors.
8. Speak or sing into your microphone at approximately the same volume you
expect during the performance.
9. Turn the trim knob on Channel 1 clockwise while watching the signal
indicator. Adjust the Channel 1 trim knob until the signal/clip indicator is
red, then back down until it is green and just below clipping at the loudest
input level.
10. Raise the Channel 1 level control to unity gain (denoted with a “U”).
11. Bring up the Main level until you can comfortably listen to your microphone
through your speakers.
12. Sculpt the sound by adding EQ to taste.
4
3 Hookup
3.1 Connections and Controls
3 Hookup
3.1 Connections and Controls
3.1.1 Inputs
Microphone Inputs. Your StudioLive ARc-series mixer is equipped with high-gain
XMAX microphone preamplifiers for use with all types of microphones.
48-volt Phantom Power. The StudioLive ARc mixers provide global 48V phantom
power for all microphone inputs.
WARNING: Phantom power is required for condenser microphones but can
severely damage some dynamic mics, especially ribbon mics. Therefore, unless
the manufacturer of your dynamic mics clearly states that phantom power will not
damage them, you should use condenser mics only, with phantom power on, or
dynamic mics only, with phantom power off.
Power User Tip: Dynamic microphones and ribbon microphones are generally
lower-output devices and require no external power source. The most important
thing to note about ribbon microphones is that they very rarely require phantom
power. In fact, unless a ribbon microphone calls specifically for phantom power,
sending phantom power to it can cause severe damage. Condenser microphones
are generally more sensitive than dynamic and ribbon microphones and typically
require external +48V phantom power. Always review your microphone’s
documentation to ascertain the manufacturer’s recommended operating practices.
Line-level Inputs. Each channel of your StudioLive ARc-series mixer has a ¼-inch,
balanced TRS connection for line-level input. Typical examples of line-level
connections are synthesizer outputs, CD/DVD-player outputs, and (with exceptions)
signal-processor inputs and outputs.
Note: As with any mixer, plugging in a microphone or a line-level input device, or
turning phantom power on or off, will create a momentary spike in the audio output
of your StudioLive ARc mixer. Because of this, it is highly recommended that you mute
or turn down the channel trim before changing connections or turning phantom
power on or off. This simple step will add years to life of your audio equipment.
Instrument Inputs. Channels 1 and 2 are equipped with an input that can be
switched between line and instrument. Use these ¼-inch connections for
instruments that don’t have internal preamps (guitar, bass, etc.). See Input Source
button in Section 3.2 for more information.
Power User Tip: Active instruments have an internal preamp and a line-level
output. This type of instrument should be plugged into a line input, rather than
an instrument input. Plugging a line-level source into an instrument input risks
damage to the input and results in a very loud and often distorted audio signal.
Insert (AR16c and AR12c). Channels 1 and 2 on the StudioLive AR16c and AR12c
also have inserts. These unbalanced, ¼-inch connectors can be used to connect
external processors (such as compressors, EQs, de-essers, and filters) to the
channel inputs.
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
5
3 Hookup
6
Tip
(Return)
Tip
(Send)
To mixer
channel
insert
From
processor
output
To
processor
input
Tip
(Out)
Ring (In)
Ring
(Return)
Tip
(Send)
3.1 Connections and Controls
3.1.2 Outputs
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
Insert-connector wiring:
Tip = send (output to inserted device)
Ring = return (input from inserted device)
Sleeve = common ground
1 2
3
4
5
1. Main. The StudioLive ARc-series mixers feature with XLR main outputs.
2. Control Room. These are the balanced control-room outputs.
The Control Room knob on the top panel controls the level.
3. Phones. This ¼-inch TRS connection is for use with headphones.
The Phones knob on the top panel controls the level.
4. Footswitch. This connection allows you to use an external
footswitch (not included) to mute the effects return.
Power User Tip: Your StudioLive will follow the behavior of the type of footswitch
you use. A latching footswitch allows you to mute the effects return until you
engage the footswitch a second time. A momentary footswitch will allow
you to mute the effects return only while the footswitch is depressed.
5. Aux. The StudioLive ARc-series mixers are equipped with 2/2/1 aux
mix outputs. Aux mixes are routed to these outputs. See Section 3.4
for more information on creating Aux mixes for monitoring.
6. FX. The FX send mix is routed to this output, allowing you to create
an additional monitor mix. When this output is engaged, the internal
effects processor is bypassed. More information about creating effects
mixes and the effects processor can be found in Section 3.5.
6
3 Hookup
1
3 4
2
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
3.2 Channel Controls
3.1.3 Rear Panel Connections
USB-C™ compatible connection. Use this port to connect your StudioLive ARcseries mixer to a USB port on your computer when using the mixer as an audio
interface. See Section 5 for further information. Your StudioLive ARc mixer is a USB 2.0
device and is compatible with nearly all USB connections.
Power-input. Plug in the provided IEC power cable here.
Power switch. Push the top part of the switch to turn on your StudioLive ARc mixer.
Push the bottom part of the switch to turn it off.
3.2 Channel Controls
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
1. Input-signal indicator. Each channel features an LED next to the trim control that
illuminates green whenever an input signal is present. The LED color will change to
red if the signal (pre- or post-EQ) reaches -3 dB.
2. Input Gain control. These knobs provide 43 dB of variable gain for mic
inputs and 40 dB of variable gain for line inputs (mono channels only).
3. Input Source button. Channels 1 and 2 offer an Input Source button
that lets you select instrument- or line-level for the ¼-inch inputs
on these channels. Press this button to engage the instrument
preamp when connecting guitars or a passive bass.
Note: Engaging the Instrument preamp will disable the
microphone preamp on the XLR connection.
4. Low Cut Filter (Mono channels only). When engaged, all frequencies
below 100 Hz will be attenuated (cut) at a slope of -18 dB/octave.
Power User Tip: Use the Low Cut filter to remove unwanted low-frequencies
from your source signal, rather than trying to EQ them out.
The stereo channels are equipped with a +10 dB Boost. When engaged,
this raising the level of both the mic and the line inputs by +10 dB.
5. High shelving EQ Gain control. Sets the level of the high-
band center frequency (10 kHz) from -15 to +15 dB.
Power User Tip: A high shelving EQ is like a treble-control knob on a stereo. In
this mode, the Center Frequency control selects the shelving frequency.
6. Mid peaking EQ frequency control (AR16c and AR12c, mono channels only).
Sets the center frequency of the Mid EQ. You can adjust the center frequency from
140 Hz to 3.5 kHz. This control is available on the Mono input channels only.
7. Mid peaking EQ gain control. Sets the level of the mid-band center frequency
from -15 to +15 dB. The center frequency can be adjusted on the mono inputs of
the AR16c and AR12c. All other inputs and the AR8c have fixed center frequency
at 2.5 kHz.
7
3 Hookup
3.2 Channel Controls
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
8. Low shelving EQ gain control. Sets the level of the low-
band center frequency (100 Hz) from -15 to +15 dB.
Power User Tip: A low shelving EQ is like a bass-control knob on a stereo. In
this mode, the Center Frequency control selects the shelving frequency.
9. Aux sends. These are the level controls for each channel to the
corresponding aux mix. The AR16c and AR12c provide two aux
mixes, and the AR8c provides one Aux mix. See Section 3.4 for more
information on using the aux bus to create a monitor mix.
10. FX send. This is the level control for each channel for the effects mix.
See Section 3.5 for more information on creating effects mixes.
11. Pan. This sets the channels position in the Main stereo mix.
Power User Tip: Panning can be a great way to achieve better separation
in your main mix. Using pan in conjunction with level will allow you to
create more definition and space between each channel’s signal.
12. Mute button and indicator. This button mutes its channel in all outputs.
The LED to the left of it will illuminate red when the channel is muted.
13. PFL (Pre-Fader Listen) button. This button will solo its channel to
the Control Room and Headphone outputs, pre-fader. When no PFL
button is engaged, the Main mix is routed to these outputs.
Power User Tip: If you can’t hear the main mix or a channel in your
headphones, make sure that PFL is not engaged on an unused channel.
3.2.1 Digital Returns
14. Channel level. Controls the overall level of the channel.
The last stereo channel (15/16, 11/12, 5/6) provides a digital playback streaming
option. The Digital Return button routes playback streams 3 and 4 from your audio
software to this channel. When engaged, the analog source will be bypassed;
however, the signal will still be routed to the digital send so that it can be recorded or
processed by a plug-in. For more information, see your StudioLive ARc-series
Software Reference Manual in your My PreSonus account.
8
3 Hookup
1
2
3
4
5
Hold 3 sec
3.3 The Super Channel
3.3 The Super Channel
4. Bluetooth Mute. Press this button to mute the Bluetooth source for
5. Bluetooth pairing. Use this button to pair your Bluetooth device with
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
Each StudioLive ARc-series mixer features a unique Super Channel that allows you to
connect several analog and digital sources at once so you can get the most out of
your mixer.
1. RCA inputs. These unbalanced inputs allow you to connect a stereo
line-level device, such as a Blu-ray player or karaoke machine.
2. 1/8-inch stereo input. This is an unbalanced, stereo, 1/8-inch
connection for line-level devices such as smartphones and tablets.
3. USB / SD Card Return. By default, playback for the onboard SD recorder is
routed to the Super Channel. Engaging this button will route USB playback
streams 1-2 to the Super Channel instead. More information on using your
StudioLive ARc-series mixer as an audio interface can be found in the Section 5.
your ARc mixer.
your ARc-series mixer. See Section 3.3.1 for pairing instructions.
Power User Tip: All available sources are summed into the Super Channel. Because this
channel only selects line-level devices, the majority of which have onboard level controls,
you can use this channel to expand the input flexibility of your StudioLive ARc-series
mixer.
3.3.1 Pairing a Bluetooth Device
3.4 Aux Buses
To pair a new device to your StudioLive ARc-series mixer:
1. Press and hold the Bluetooth pairing button for three seconds.
2. The Bluetooth button will flash once every second.
3. Search for new Bluetooth devices from the device to
which you’d like to pair (smartphone, tablet, etc).
4. Select “StudioLive AR16c/AR12c/AR8c” from the available
Bluetooth devices list on the pairing device.
5. The Bluetooth button will illuminate solid when paired successfully.
Note: If previously paired, your StudioLive ARc mixer will connect
automatically. The Bluetooth pairing button will flash rapidly (two to
three times per second) while the Bluetooth module detects connected
devices and will illuminate solid when it is successfully paired.
The aux bus provides outputs to route auxiliary mixes that are separate from
the main mix. StudioLive ARc-series mixers are equipped with 2/2/1 aux
buses, which have physical output jacks, and one internal effects bus.
Aux buses can be used for many applications, the two most common of which are
creating monitor mixes and inserting external effects processors into the mix.
9
3 Hookup
3
2
1
3.4 Aux Buses
3.4.1 Monitor Bus Controls
1. AFL button. This button will solo the aux bus to the aux outputs after the fader.
Power User Tip: Using this control to listen in on a performer’s monitor
mix can be a great way to quickly dial in just the right amount of
each signal and get to a great monitor mix more quickly.
2. Mute button. This button will mute or unmute its aux bus. The LED to
the left of it will illuminate red when the aux bus output is muted.
Power User Tip: Muting an aux bus output during performance breaks is a
quick and easy way to prevent accidental signal spikes or feedback.
3. Output level. Adjusts the master level of the aux output.
3.4.2 Creating Monitor Mixes
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
Creating custom monitor mixes is critical. If musicians can’t hear themselves or their
bandmates, their performances will suffer. A monitor mix can be mono or stereo.
Most often, an individual live monitor mix is mono and is sent to a floor-wedge or
sidefill monitor. (The obvious exception is in-ear monitor systems.) A studio monitor
mix is usually stereo because it is sent to a headphone amplifier that requires both a
left- and a right-channel input. In both cases, the function of the aux bus is the same.
As an example, let’s create a mix for Aux Bus 1:
1. The Aux 1 send control for each channel sets the send level in the Aux 1 mix.
Use these knobs the same way that you use the output level controls to dial
in your main mix. Ask your musicians what they would like in their monitor
mix and use their requests as a starting point.
2. Use the Aux 1 Output control to adjust the overall output level.
3. Press the Aux 1 AFL button to listen to the mix through the headphone or
control room outputs as you make final adjustments to the mix.
10
3 Hookup
3.5 Internal FX Bus
3.5 Internal FX Bus
3.5.1 Eects Presets
Preset Descriptions and Uses
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
Each StudioLive ARc-series mixer is equipped with an internal
effects processor with 16 effects presets. This section will cover each
preset, as well as how to add and use effects in your mix.
To select an effects preset, simply turn the encoder until the
desired preset number is displayed and press the encoder.
No. Name Description When to Use
1 Small Hall
2 Concert Hall
3 Large Hall Provides long pre-delay and reverb time
4 Cathedral
5 Studio
6 Vibrant Room
7 Large Club
8 Plate
9 Tape Echo
10 Short Delay Provides 300 ms delay • Helps a vocal or guitar cut through a mix
Adds a medium reverb time to emulate a
small concert hall
Emulates a large concert hall with
softer surfaces
Emulates a large cathedral by adding long
pre-delays and reflections
Emulates an acoustically treated studio room
to provide a more intimate and warmer tone
Emulates the sound of large room with hard
surfaces to provide many early reflections
Warm and full reverb to emulate the sound of
a large acoustic venue
Emulates a vintage plate reverb by providing
many early reflections without pre-delay
This medium-length, clean delay emulates
the traditional tape echo
• Gives vocals and instruments a “big” vibe
• Adds a greater sense of space
• Adds rich fullness to acoustic instruments
and solo vocals
• Gives acoustics instruments and vocals a
“larger than life” feel
• Adds a rich, ethereal feel to any instrument
• Soften harsh instruments
• Gives vocals a lush vibe
• Adds subtle ambience to a mix
• Adds life to a flat room
• Helps a vocal or instrument stand out in
a mix
• All purpose reverb for overall mixes
• Fattens up percussion and backing vocals
• Great for vocals and guitars for a retro vibe
11 Medium Delay Provides 380 ms delay • Adds drama to a vocal or sample
12 Long Delay Provides 480 ms delay
13 Endless Delay
14 Slapback
15 Chorus
16 Sweeping Reverb Adds a rich reverb to a chorus effect • Thickens and enhances instruments
Combines a large room reverb with
a long delay
Adds a single, relatively quick delay of the
original signal to emulate vintage tape-
based delay units
Plays with the phase of the signal to create a
modulated, sweeping effect
• Subtle, dreamy effect for vocals and
instruments
• Because Purple Rain
• Vintage sound for guitars
• Fun effect for vocals
• Good effect for electric guitar and keyboards for a vintage vibe
11
3 Hookup
4
3
2
1
TURN, THEN PRESS
TO SELECT
3.5 Internal FX Bus
3.5.2 Internal FX Bus Return
The internal FX return allows you to adjust the amount of the effects
output you would like in your main and monitor mixes.
1. Aux sends. These are the level controls for the effects output in each aux
2. Balance. This sets the FX return’s position in the main stereo mix.
3. Mute button. This button will mute or unmute the FX return. The LED
Power User Tip: Mute the FX return during performance breaks while the
band is speaking to the audience to create a more professional show.
4. FX level. Adjusts the master level of the effects output in your main mix.
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
mix. The AR16c and AR12c provide two aux mixes; the AR8c provides one
aux mix. See Section 3.4.2 for more information on creating aux mixes.
to the left of it will illuminate red when the FX output is muted.
3.5.3 Creating Internal Eects Mixes
There are at least two main advantages to creating an effects mix, rather than
inserting an effect in a channel. First, several channels can be sent to a single
processor. In addition to greatly simplifying the number of parameters you
have to control, this can create a cohesive sound in your mix. The second
advantage of creating an effects mix is that you can vary the level sent from
each channel to the processor, rather than patching the output directly into the
effect. This allows you to add a lot or a little of an effect to any given channel.
Your StudioLive ARc-series mixer’s internal effects bus is used much in
the same way the aux buses are used to create monitor mixes.
1. To begin, select the effects preset you would like to use by turning the
Effects encoder to the desired number and pressing the encoder.
2. Raise the FX return output level to unity.
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3 Hookup
3.5 Internal FX Bus
3. Use the FX send controls on each channel the same way that you use the
faders to set the output level to your main mix. The higher a channel’s
level is in the effects mix, the more processed (“wetter”) it will sound.
Let’s say that you are using reverb to liven up a relatively dead room.
You might send a little bit of each input to the reverb, but you probably
will not want much of the drums and bass to be processed, as too
much reverb could reduce their impact and leave your mix without
a sturdy foundation. So rather than turning the FX-send level for the
kick drum channel all the way up, turn it to the 8 or 9 o’clock position,
so that its saturation is between 20% and 30%. This way, only a small
portion of the kick-drum input will be affected by the reverb.
4. Use the FX return level fader to increase or decrease
the overall effects mix in the Mains to taste.
5. To send the FX return mix to a monitor mix, adjust the
FX return’s monitor send control to taste.
3.5.4 Using an External Eects Processor
This section will detail how to use an external effects processor,
bypassing your StudioLive ARc mixer’s internal processor.
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
1. To begin, connect the FX output to the input of your external
effects processor and connect the outputs of your processor
to a stereo channel on your StudioLive ARc mixer.
LINE INPUTMIC INPUT BALANCED OUTPUTS MIDI PEDALDIGITAL I/O
MONO
Balanced Input
LEFT RIGHT
IN INTHRU OUT
DI
S/PDIF
DO
2. Turn up the output level of the stereo channel to unity.
3. Use the FX send controls on each channel the same way that you use the
faders to set the output level to your main mix. The higher a channel’s
level is in the effects mix, the more processed (“wetter”) it will sound.
4. Use the stereo channel’s Level control to increase or decrease
the overall effects mix in the Mains to taste.
5. To send the FX return mix to a monitor mix, adjust the
stereo channel’s monitor send control to taste.
Power User Tip: You can also use the FX output to create an additional monitor mix
when multiple monitor mixes are of greater importance than adding effects.
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3 Hookup
3
2
1
3.6 Master Section Controls
3.6 Master Section Controls
1. USB 1-2 Send. By default, the main mix can be recorded to your computer on the
last USB send pair (17-18 / 13-14 / 7-8). If you are only recording the main mix on
your computer, engaging the USB 1-2 Send button will simplify setup in most
Note: When this button is enabled, Channels 1 and 2 cannot be recorded
individually, although they will still be a part of the Main mix.
button will mute or unmute the Main bus. The LED to the left of
it will illuminate red when the main outputs are muted.
Power User Tip: Muting the main mix during performance breaks is a
quick and easy way to prevent accidental signal spikes or feedback.
of the Main output.
4. Main output meters. These peak meters display the output levels of the main
stereo bus. These meters are scaled from -24 to +15 dBu. For best performance, the
highest level of your mix should stay between the “0” and “+6” indicators.
are electrical, rather than digital, it is more advantageous to meter them
relative to voltage. The Main meters display signals from -24 to +15 dBu
(-42 to -3 dBFS). This means that if you play back a digital signal over USB
or from the SD card at -18 dBFS, it will register in the Main meters as 0 dBu.
Conversely if you record a signal over USB that registers at 0 dBu in the Main
Meters, it will display at -18 dBFS in any application that meters in dBFS.
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
situations.
2. Main Mute button. This
3. Output-level control. Adjusts the master level
Because the StudioLive ARc mixer main outputs
3.6.1 Control Room Levels
StudioLive ARc-series mixers feature a headphone output and controlroom outputs, allowing you to listen to the main mix and the Solo
bus. Whenever a channel is soloed, it will automatically be routed
to the control room and headphone outputs. When no channel is
soloed, the main mix will be heard through these outputs.
1 2 3
1. PFL / AFL Master knob. Adjusts the overall level of the Solo bus.
2. Control Room knob. Adjusts the overall level of
the control-room monitor outputs.
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Front of house
speakers
Floor wedges
Keyboard
Lead vocal
Drum kit
Bass
Electric guitar amp
Music
Playback
Laptop running Capture
3 Hookup
3.7 Typical Band Setup Diagram
3. Phones knob. Adjusts the overall level of the headphone output.
3.7 Typical Band Setup Diagram
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
15
3 Hookup
Laptop running Studio One
or 3rd party DAW
Mic
Guitar
Micro-synth
Keyboard Main reference
Phones
Phones
Headphone amp
3.8 Typical Home Studio Setup Diagram
3.8 Typical Home Studio Setup Diagram
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
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4 SD Recording and Playback
SD Card
4.1 SD Recording
4 SD Recording and Playback
StudioLive ARc-series mixers are equipped with an onboard stereo SD recorder
that allows you to record the main mix as a stereo WAV file to any FAT16formatted SD card or FAT32-formatted SDHC card. You can also load stereo
WAV and MP3 files onto an SD or SDHC card to play audio during a show.
4.1 SD Recording
This section explains on how to record the main mix as a stereo WAV file:
1. Insert a FAT16-formatted SD card or FAT32-formatted SDHC card into your
StudioLive ARc mixer. An SD card will provide up to 2 GB of storage space.
An SDHC card will provide up to 32 GB.
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
2. Press the Record button.
3. Recording will begin when the Play/Pause and
Record buttons are both illuminated.
If no SD card is recognized, the Record button will flash three times.
4. Press the Play/Pause button to stop the recording.
Once complete, you can transfer your recordings onto your computer by
inserting the SD card into your computer’s SD card reader and copying the
files to your computer’s hard drive. Each file will be labeled with an “SL-ARc”
heading, followed by a number.
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4 SD Recording and Playback
SD Card
4.2 SD Playback
4.2 SD Playback
Playing files from the SD card is a great way to listen to a performance right
away, and it can be useful during a performance. SD cards can be preloaded with
backing tracks for performance or rehearsal. Or load an SD card with your favorite
break music and never be caught without the right adapter or cable again.
To play audio from your SD recorder:
1. Insert into your StudioLive ARc mixer a FAT16-formatted SD card or FAT32-
2. Press the Play/Pause button. The current stereo audio file will begin to play
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
formatted SDHC card that has been pre-loaded with WAV or MP3 files or
that you have recorded to using your StudioLive ARc mixer.
at the last position. Playback will continue through all files, in alphanumeric
order, until the end of the last file has been reached; then playback will stop
automatically.
3. Press the Play/Pause button again to pause
playback at the current file position.
4. Press the Return to Zero button to restart the current audio file. Press again
to move to the beginning of the previous file.
5. Press the Go to End button to advance playback to the end of the current
audio file. Press again to move to the end of the next file.
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5 Connecting to a Computer
5.1 Installation for Windows
5 Connecting to a Computer
Connecting your StudioLive ARc mixer to your computer is quick and easy. For Mac
users, just connect your mixer to a free USB connection on your computer and you’re
ready to go. For Windows users, you must first install Universal Control. This will install
both the ASIO/WDM driver and the control panel for your StudioLive ARc-series
mixers. We made this installer as simple and easy to follow as possible, and it will take
you through each step of the installation process. Please read each message carefully
to ensure the StudioLive driver and the control panel are properly installed. In
particular, be careful not to connect your StudioLive mixer to the computer too soon.
Please visit www.presonus.com for the latest system requirements
and an updated list of compatible hardware. It is also recommend
that you check your recording software’s system requirements.
Power User Tip: The speed of your processor, amount of RAM, and
capacity, size, and speed of your hard drives will greatly affect the overall
performance of your recording system. A faster processor and more RAM
can reduce signal latency (delay) and improve overall performance.
5.1 Installation for Windows
Before beginning the installation setup, please quit all applications, including
antivirus software, and disconnect the StudioLive mixer from your computer.
Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation. When the
installer has finished, it will prompt you to reboot your computer.
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
Click “Finish” to automatically restart your PC. Once your computer has
rebooted, connect the StudioLive. When the Found New Hardware wizard
launches, follow the “Recommended” steps.
Your StudioLive is now synced to your computer and ready to use!
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5 Connecting to a Computer
5.1 Installation for Windows
5.1.1 Universal Control (Windows only)
StudioLive™ ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
Sample Rate. Changes the sample rate.
You can set the sample rate to 44.1, 48, 88.2, or 96 kHz. A higher sample
rate will increase the fidelity of the recording but will increase the file size
and the amount of system resources necessary to process the audio.
Safe Mode. Adjusts the Input Buffer Size.
These modes allow you to adjust the input buffer size
to optimize performance for your computer.
When adjusting the safe mode, the block size will be adjusted
automatically to provide the best performance.
Block Size. Sets the buffer size.
From this menu, you can set the buffer size from 16 to 4,096 samples (Mac), or 64
to 8192 samples (Windows). Lowering the buffer size will lower latency; however,
this will also increase performance demands on your computer. In general, you will
want to set the buffer size as low as your system can safely support. If you begin
to hear pops, clicks, or distortion in your audio path, try raising the buffer size.
Note: When adjusting the block size, the Safe Mode will
automatically change to provide the best performance.
5.1.2 Loopback Recording (Windows only)
The windows drivers for the StudioLive ARc-series mixers provide two
virtual streams that allow you to record the output of on audio application
in another application. Loopback can be useful in a variety of situations:
• Recording the audio from a video game or YouTube
video for a podcast or livestream.
• Recording a vocal in real time over a karaoke track
played from a web browser or media player.
Power User Tip: Because the StudioLive ARc-series mixers are class compliant Core
Audio devices, these virtual streams are not available in macOS. However, there
are several third-party applications that provide this functionality in macOS.
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