Soundcraft Compact Stage Box - 32/8+8: Optical SC
Description
Soundcraft Compact Stage Box - 32/8+8: Optical SC
The Soundcraft Compact Stage Box is a professional-grade mixing interface that delivers precision and transparency in a compact 4U footprint. Built around optical SC circuitry, this stage box commands rock-solid audio character with warm, natural dynamics control that responds intuitively to real-time adjustments. The 32-input configuration paired with redundant power supplies and thermostatically-controlled cooling makes it a reliable centerpiece for studio tracking, post-production workflows, and networked recording setups where reliability and audio fidelity are non-negotiable.
Connectivity & Expandability
This unit connects to a host console via optical-fibre MADI with redundant cable capability, ensuring fault-tolerant operation in mission-critical recording environments. Two expansion slots accommodate standard Studer D21m I/O cards, enabling support for CobraNet®, AVIOM A-Net®16, Ethersound, ADAT, and RockNet protocols—giving you flexibility to integrate with virtually any modern networked audio ecosystem for multi-room tracking or distributed recording sessions.
I/O & Configuration
The base configuration provides 32 mic/line inputs, 8 line outputs, and 8 channels of AES/EBU outputs, with capacity to expand to 48 inputs by adding a 16 mic/line input XLR module. An integrated 8-channel GPIO interface enables remote control and automation triggering for session management, while MADI connectivity supports up to 64 in/64 out limited only by console link bandwidth—perfect for tracking complex ensembles or multi-format recording projects.
Key Features
- 32 mic/line inputs with 8 line outputs and 8 AES/EBU output channels
- Optical-fibre MADI connection to host console with redundant cable support
- 4U rack-mount form factor for compact installation
- Twin redundant power supplies for continuous operation
- Thermostatically-controlled fan cooling with full LED status monitoring
- 2 expansion slots for Studer D21m I/O cards
- Support for CobraNet®, AVIOM A-Net®16, Ethersound, ADAT, and RockNet protocols
- 8-channel GPIO interface for remote control and automation
- Expandable to 48 inputs with optional 16 mic/line input XLR module
- Maximum capacity of 64 inputs/64 outputs via MADI console link
This Compact Stage Box combines transparent optical circuitry, redundant power architecture, and modular expansion options into a format that scales from small-studio tracking to complex multi-room recording productions.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Country of Manufacture | China |
Reviews
At a Glance
The Soundcraft Compact Stage Box delivers 32 transparent, naturally controlled mic and line inputs in a compact 4U interface built around optical SC circuitry ideal for multitrack recording sessions and live-to-tape broadcast work. Its warm, responsive character and redundant power architecture make it a dependable hub for studio-to-venue workflows, theater sound design, and networked recording environments where you need flexibility to expand I/O and integrate with modern audio protocols. Choose this if you're capturing complex live productions, theater sound, or broadcast feeds and want a mixing interface that translates warmth and dynamic control into your recordings.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Live Performance
- ✓ Theater Productions
- ✓ Broadcast Applications
- ✓ Large-Scale Touring
Not the best pick for
- – Home Recording
- – Practice
- – Solo Performance
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the 32/8+8 configuration mean?
The stage box provides 32 mic/line inputs, 8 line outputs, and 8 channels of AES/EBU outputs as the base setup. You can expand to 48 inputs by adding an optional 16 mic/line input XLR module, and the MADI connection to your console supports up to 64 in/64 out total depending on console link bandwidth.
How does it connect to my console?
The Compact Stage Box connects via optical-fibre MADI with redundant cable capability, ensuring fault-tolerant operation in mission-critical environments. Two expansion slots accept Studer D21m I/O cards, enabling you to integrate CobraNet, AVIOM A-Net16, Ethersound, ADAT, and RockNet protocols.
Is it reliable enough for touring and broadcast?
Yes—the unit features twin redundant power supplies, thermostatically-controlled fan cooling, and full LED status monitoring designed specifically for large-scale touring, theater productions, and broadcast applications where continuous operation is essential. Its compact 4U footprint and rock-solid optical circuitry make it a dependable centerpiece for mission-critical sound systems.
Can I control automation and remote functions from this stage box?
Yes—an integrated 8-channel GPIO interface enables remote control and automation triggering, giving you hands-on flexibility for real-time adjustments and cueing in live and broadcast environments.