This is an excellent mixer for anyone doing interactive work with a computer. In my case I do voice analysis. The Soundcraft Compact 4 is directed at use with a computer sound card, but the first thing you do is forget about everything the manufacturer tells you about how to use it. It will get you totally confused. First, don't use the RECORD and PLAYBACK terminals. In my case I want to redirect my computer out back into my computer in, for re-recording, and you can't do that with this mixer if you use it the way they say. So use MIX out (get 1/4" plug to RCA jack, adapters, wired tip and sleve, unbal) This mixer has three buses MIX, RECORD and MONITOR. Forget about the RECORD, red button in (I use it as an off, or disconnected position) Your computer out should go to a stereo channel. This way, you have full control of EQ, levels, etc. Any channel not in use is switched to the RECORD bus (essentially disconnecting it from use) A channel being used should be on the MIX bus (Red switch out) The MONITOR bus can be used for speakers if you need them. The mono channels can be used for line level or mic. If you want level control from a tape deck that doesn't have that, just use two mono channels and swing the pan left and right respectively. With line level, again, use adapters (phone plug wired T-S, to RCA jack) Another adapter you will need is an XLR for any mic inputs. Always use unbalanced unless you are working in a large auditorium. There is no battery compartment. (They lied) You have to wire an external battery. Conclusion: This is a great little mixer, if you can get your head wrapped around the complexity of the manufacturer's manual. Richard R. Toronto

This is an excellent mixer for anyone doing interactive work with a computer. In my case I do voice analysis. The Soundcraft Compact 4 is directed at use with a computer sound card, but the first thing you do is forget about everything the manufacturer tells you about how to use it. It will get you totally confused. First, don't use the RECORD and PLAYBACK terminals. In my case I want to redirect my computer out back into my computer in, for re-recording, and you can't do that with this mixer if you use it the way they say. So use MIX out (get 1/4" plug to RCA jack, adapters, wired tip and sleve, unbal) This mixer has three buses MIX, RECORD and MONITOR. Forget about the RECORD, red button in (I use it as an off, or disconnected position) Your computer out should go to a stereo channel. This way, you have full control of EQ, levels, etc. Any channel not in use is switched to the RECORD bus (essentially disconnecting it from use) A channel being used should be on the MIX bus (Red switch out) The MONITOR bus can be used for speakers if you need them. The mono channels can be used for line level or mic. If you want level control from a tape deck that doesn't have that, just use two mono channels and swing the pan left and right respectively. With line level, again, use adapters (phone plug wired T-S, to RCA jack) Another adapter you will need is an XLR for any mic inputs. Always use unbalanced unless you are working in a large auditorium. There is no battery compartment. (They lied) You have to wire an external battery. Conclusion: This is a great little mixer, if you can get your head wrapped around the complexity of the manufacturer's manual. Richard R. Toronto

I bought one of these over a year ago and it still performs the same, perfectly. Great features for the price. Phantom/HPF/D.I/R.I.A.A etc. I use it piggybacked onto a Compact10.