The PreSonus StudioLive 16R is a unique device that combines stage box functionality with mixing capability in a compact rack-mount form factor. Rather than serving as your primary mixing console, the 16R typically functions as an intelligent audio interface and processing hub positioned on stage or in a strategic location, handling audio from multiple sources and feeding a primary mixer elsewhere.
Understanding the StudioLive 16R’s Role
The StudioLive 16R provides 16 analog audio inputs and 8 outputs in a 2U rack package. Its key distinguishing feature is that it includes the same Fat Channel processing available on larger StudioLive consoles—comprehensive EQ, compression, gating, and effects per channel.
This processing capability, combined with its compact stage-mount form factor, makes the 16R valuable for churches with distributed mixing architectures. Rather than running 16 analog cables from stage to your main console location, you can apply processing at the source and feed a single stereo output or multi-channel feed to your main mixer.
Physical Installation
Mount the StudioLive 16R in a standard audio rack positioned on stage or near your microphone sources. Ensure the rear panel has access for cable connections. Provide adequate ventilation around the unit—avoid stacking heavy equipment on top of it.
Connect power from a quality power conditioner rather than a wall outlet. This protects the sensitive internal electronics from power surges and voltage fluctuations.
Connecting Your Audio Sources
The StudioLive 16R provides 16 analog audio inputs via XLR and quarter-inch connectors. Connect your wireless microphone receivers, stage instruments, and other sources directly to the 16R inputs.
Set each input’s gain by speaking into microphones or playing instruments at typical service levels. Adjust the input trim until peaks reach approximately -12 dB. This consistent gain structure is essential for clean audio throughout your signal chain.
Applying Fat Channel Processing at the Source
The 16R’s primary value proposition is access to Fat Channel processing at the source. Rather than processing occurring at your main mixing location, processing happens immediately on stage where your audio sources live.
On each microphone channel, apply gentle parametric EQ to compensate for the microphone’s frequency response or room acoustics. Add compression to smooth vocal performance variations or instrument dynamics. Use gating to reduce ambient room noise on ambient or overhead microphones.
This source processing approach reduces the processing burden on your main mixing console and allows different sources to be pre-processed optimally for their specific characteristics.
Configuring Your 16R Outputs
The 16R provides analog outputs—typically a stereo main pair plus additional outputs. Configure the main stereo output to feed your primary mixing console. If you have a secondary mixing system or broadcast feed, route additional 16R outputs to those destinations.
The 16R can function as a submixer, combining your 16 stage inputs into a stereo pair that feeds your main console. Alternatively, it can send individual channels or groups of channels to your main mixer for additional mixing flexibility.
Remote Control via USB or Network
The StudioLive 16R can be controlled locally through its small onboard interface, but more sophisticated control comes via USB or network connection. Connect a computer or iPad running PreSonus’s control software to manage the 16R remotely.
Position a computer or iPad on stage near the 16R for quick access to processing adjustments if needed. This allows your stage technical person to make changes to EQ, compression, or effects without returning to the control room.
Integration with AVB Networking
If your church’s primary mixer is a StudioLive 32S, the 16R can connect via AVB audio networking. This integration allows you to feed the 16R’s processed audio directly to your main mixer over a single Ethernet connection rather than multiple analog cables.
This networked approach eliminates the need for long analog cable runs and provides flexible digital audio routing between your stage box and main console.
Scene Management on the 16R
The StudioLive 16R includes scene memory, allowing you to save and recall processing configurations. Create scenes for different service segments or different event types.
For a Sunday service, you might have a “Worship Song Processing” scene and a “Sermon Processing” scene. The sermon scene might include heavier gating on ambient mics to reduce room noise during speaking portions. The worship scene might include different EQ and effects processing optimized for musical content.
Backup and Redundancy
Export your StudioLive 16R configurations regularly. Unlike larger consoles where scene management is critical, the 16R’s primary value is its processing capability. Losing your processing configuration would require rebuilding EQ and compression settings.
Keep your configuration exported to USB and backed up. This protection ensures quick recovery if you ever need to reconfigure the unit.
Integrating with Your Main Mixing Console
Your main mixer—wherever it’s located—receives the 16R’s stereo output. The main mixer operator works with the pre-processed audio flowing from the 16R.
This division of labor is powerful: your stage technical person optimizes source-level processing for each input’s characteristics, while your main mixing operator balances the overall sound and handles dynamic mixing during services.
Training Your Stage Technical Team
If you have dedicated technical personnel managing the 16R, they need solid understanding of audio processing. Train them on how to use EQ, compression, and gating effectively. Have them practice during rehearsals until they become comfortable adjusting processing.
Documentation is crucial. Write down your typical processing settings for different sources. Create a one-page reference guide describing what each control does and typical settings for your specific equipment and room.
Expanding Your System
The StudioLive 16R functions as a component in a larger system, not a standalone mixing solution. As your church grows, you might add additional 16R stage boxes, networked audio devices, or integrate the 16R with larger StudioLive consoles.
The 16R’s modular approach allows you to build distributed mixing architectures that grow with your facility. Start with a single 16R handling stage inputs, then expand by adding additional processing units as needs evolve.
Your PreSonus StudioLive 16R now provides professional-grade source processing positioned where your audio originates. This strategic placement of processing, combined with your main mixing console, creates a sophisticated audio architecture supporting even the most complex worship environments.