Sound Devices 688 12-input Field Mixer with 16-Track Integrated Recorder with Timecode

The Sound Devices 688 12-Input Field Production Mixer offers an integrated 16-Track Recorder, automixing with MixAssist, and Ambient timecode. It suits both bag and cart-based workflows. 

The 688 is a portable audio powerhouse for the production sound engineer that incorporates multi-channel mixer, auto-mixer, recorder plus optional SL-6 integrated powering and wireless system.Wouldn't you like to de-clutter your sound mixer's bag and increase reliability? Sound Devices consolidated functions so that cabling requirements are significantly decreased. The 688 takes the finest aspects of the acclaimed 633, 664, and 788T and creatively combines them with new technology. 

I/O and Routing Flexibility

The 688 features (6) The 688 features (6) high-bandwidth mic/line inputs on XLR connectors, each complete with phantom power, high-pass filter, analog input limiter and variable pan. (6) additional line-level inputs on TA3 connectors offer flexibility for more complex productions. 

All inputs are assignable, pre- or post-fade to its (8) output buses, left/right plus Aux 1-6. The 688 can send its main left/right mix to (3) cameras simultaneously via transformer-balanced XLR and Hirose outputs.

Workflow

In a Bag - with (12) inputs (6 microphone inputs and  6 line inputs), the 688 delivers more than enough fader control for bag work. Pair the 688 with optional SL-6 integrated powering and wireless system and compatible receivers to gain Rx control and monitoring, plus RF scanning and frequency assignment, using the large color LCD on the 688. 

On a Cart - the 688 includes (8) assignable outputs (L/R, X1-X6) to provide fast routing flexibility so you can tailor your setup to your needs while on location. It is easy to make channel assignments. Add an optional fader controller to expand your professional audio system on a cart. 

Auto Mixers & MixAssist

The 688's powerful digital processing engine delivers 12-channel auto-mixing capability using the most sophisticated algorithm on the market today. MixAssist automatically attenuates the level of inputs that are not active and helps maintain consistent background sound levels regardless of the number of open microphones. Comb filtering and phasing artifacts are also reduced when multiple mics pick up the same sound source by inteligently attenuating redundant mics.

Recording

The 688 offers 16-track, polyphonic or monophonic broadcast WAV file recording to SD and CompactFlash cards. All common sampling rates are supported, including 192 kHz on up to (6) tracks. The memory cards can be set independently, recording either identical material for real-time backup, or combinations of WAV and MP3 files.

Timecode

The 688 includes a world renowned Ambient™ timecode generator and reader supporting all common rates and modes. A helpful timecode compare utility shows the difference between internal and external timecode. The 688 also generates sound reports and supports extensive metadata, via the front panel or attached USB keyboard.

Additional Features

The 688 incorporates exclusive PowerSafe circuitry with smart sensing of available power sources, front panel warning indication of power loss, and an integrated 10-second power reserve that will, in the event of an inadvertent power loss, allow the 688 to safely stop recording, properly end all file operations, and then automatically shut down.

Although there is a built-in slate/external microphone in the 688, it is advised that this be used solely for reference purposes to notate scenes.