Behringer FLOW 8 | Digital Audio Mixer Second Look - Answering YOUR Questions

[@bsoundlighting]

This type of mixer would be very valuable for schools and educational institutions to teach kids the workflow of sound. It's small, cheap and versatile. I've been a sound technician at a school for 3 years and this would be very helpful purely due to its small size and physical faders.

[@DcSoundOp]

That’s a great point, for a classroom or desktop setting it’s a nice size and price for sure. Thanks for the message!

[@TheKameraBerlin]

Thanks for the video! One addition, though: Aligning the fader levels between Main / Monitor / Effects layer ist much faster done and more precise if you keep an eye on the mixer display. The display shows the actual level on the selected layer as a black bar, the actual position of the fader compared to that is a white line whithin the black bar, if the fader is lower than the actual level. Or it shows a black line, if the fader position is higher than the actual level in that layer. Therefore you don´t have to look for the LED on top of each fader and wait for it to go off while moving the fader randomly. That made it for me much easier and faster to change layer without using the app. The app is great for using the EQ (Full parametric now!) or selecting effects.

[@javieralorda4399]

Got it, Thanks a lot.

[@patthesoundguy]

There are lots of analog options but I can see the recall function being helpful. My use would be in audiovisual where I would set up a small PA for a small event and the event organizer just needs to be able to adjust the volume of the speaker at the podium. Also with all of the functions hidden under layers with only buttons to access them your average person is less likely to adjust them. An XR12 is not the best use for that kind of situation because you have to leave a device behind for control. Now if I want to set it and forget it and have no one have access to control other than me the XR12 is my choice. USB power is a great thing with the added features of the digital processing.

[@sfscspresidentjonschwark9428]

All they would need to do for 90% of the mix minus need is to make it so you can do a post-fader/post aux mute on the USB input for the main channel. Then you could still send main bus faded USB to the Aux/Mon buses but NOT loop it back into the USB. This is what you need to do a Zoom meeting with a live-PA audience at the same time. This is what the Yamaha AG-06 and the Zed-10 are so good at. I haven't bought this yet, but I suspect you can cheat it for a mono PA system using the mon buses. Set the mons to pre fader. Then mix all your stage sources in the Mon1 bus, while leaving all their fader volumes down on the main bus. Then feed the Mon 1 output back into input 7, and fade it up. Now on the Mon2 bus fade up input 7 AND the USB as needed. The mon2 bus output becomes your live PA feed at the venue and includes the Zoom meeeting or whatever audio, which is only being sent to the mon2, and not the main.

[@spiritandlife]

Just one point on the Air series XR12, I bought one, they do have very nice interface options BUT they do not have USB in out capability like the XR18. Very disappointed with that. I had to buy a little Q502 usb mixer and run my output to it. So to be fair you have to compare the flow 8 with the XR18 not the 12.

[@guitarmuso1]

I think it's great for the money ,I have been using it for solo gigs and recording and I have have no complaints apart from one time getting feedback through the PA but EQ sorted that out

[@DcSoundOp]

Hey Simon, great to hear it is working out so well for you. Also good to hear you were able to sort the feedback with the built-in EQ. Great info, thanks for the update!

[@jonathanarleys]

In my opinion, the best way to solve position for faders is adding some strips LED at the side of the faders.. Its way more cheaper than motoric faders and also can helping us to do monitoring for each channel... I was seeing this for any brand of digital mixer and they just work good... About Flow and Xair, I'll put Flow 8 on my table and do recording but Xair, I'll put it at gig and taking it out. XR12 and XR16 can't do multitrack recording (that sucks) so I must to compare XR18 that having more prices and can multitrack recording. Local store here about USD$934 vs USD$334 (I just convert it from Rupiah to USD)... ✌🏻

[@DcSoundOp]

Interesting idea, I don't imagine anyone else is going to go down that road again though after the decade+ of absolute hate PreSonus faced for doing it on their mixers.

[@The07059]

10:00 if they can't fit a motorized fader, I rather want a continuous knob for level.

[@CamMineo]

Yeah exactly. I wonder if they thought about that. Is it a pretty new thing? It makes way more sense. I have one on my Bose L1 pro8 and it works so well with the app. Just lights up on the mixer when I turn it up on the app.

[@SonicScholarCode]

For what it's worth, when I plugged in the SM7B w/ cloud lifter, I got a terrible hum as soon as I turned on the 48v phantom power. Decided to crank the pre-amp wide open at 60db and the noise was manageable. I wish there was a noise gate / expander built into the mixer, but I can manage without. Even with the one-knob compressor, the noise wasn't terrible.

[@DcSoundOp]

Wow, did you really need the preamp all the way open for an SM7b? What's your signal chain like after you get into the computer? That just seems like a ton of gain at the front end to me. Thanks for the message!

[@SonicScholarCode]

@@DcSoundOp That’s the way I have it set up now is: no cloud lifter, but pre-amp cranked wide open. I get a little bit of hiss, but nothing I can’t get rid of in post. my main use case for this mixer is to replace my analog EQ and compressor to try to get as loud and clean a signal going in so my changes in post production are more subtle. So the signal chain after the mixer when I record in OBS is my fave izotope plugins for a subtle expander, RX de noise, Ozone maximize, and one more subtle de-noise to get rid of the hiss from increased noise floor in the maximizer.

[@SonicScholarCode]

I started my channel making tutorials, so I just want that production process to be as streamlined as possible, but I also use it as an audio interface for recording guitars and bass

[@DcSoundOp]

@@SonicScholarCode I appreciate that.. if you're finding yourself wide open like that, it can be worth trying backing off the input trim a bit and making it up by the same amount in software, especially if you are already running a chain of plugins.

[@SonicScholarCode]

@@DcSoundOp I will try that- Is that because the pre-amps on a cheap mixer add more noise than what the software would add?

[@Pharesm]

Good video, thanks! The one thing that bugs me is a mere 2 mic preamps on an 8 track mixer! I'd like to pay an extra $50 to have two mics for 2 singers and two mics for acoustic guitars! Motorized faders would be worth another $50 to me - so I'd like this to get an $320 sister product!

[@DcSoundOp]

Interesting. If you watch the video you’ll see the unit has 4 mic preamps, so you’re covered there.

[@batman13ify1]

I feel like the X Air inflation is because of everything moving to streaming. Even basic Focusrite interfaces are going for way more than they really should. I see the FLOW has uses for a podcast or home recording situation (maybe). That being said, I feel like Behringer has abandoned the X Airs as there hasn't been an update to the firmware since February 2018! Maybe this is just the direction Behringer is going, where they have their main line consoles (X32) and then the Prosumer market (FLOW/XYNYX). I don't know, but its something to think about.

[@DcSoundOp]

Those are great points, I didn’t know it had been so long since the last update. Thanks for the message.

[@drasik1000]

I don't know if it happened with the XR, but the MIdas MR series recently got an update adding DCA-Spill functionality. I would estimate that the XRs are soon to follow with that feature.

[@batman13ify1]

@@drasik1000 hopefully, but Midas is probably more on top of their gear than behringer is as a whole. But maybe there will be an update

[@JackOwensMusic]

Can you link the adapter you have plugged into your iPad? I've seen them all over, but I was going for an Apple Certified

[@DcSoundOp]

Absolutley, that's the Apple Lightning to USB Camera adapter - amzn.to/3RhmQ7n (that's an affiliate link) - it's a super handy adapter to have & still a mystery why they've always called it the camera adapter when it works for so many other things. Thanks for watching!

[@takaliuang]

Can I record multi tracks audio with my DAW?

[@DcSoundOp]

Yes, absolutely. Record mode gives you direct outs from each channel to the computer.

[@takaliuang]

@@DcSoundOp Thank you, just bought it....love it!

[@outsidethebox704]

When I listen to the speakers on radios their voice is very solid and bass is perfect. How do they achieve such quality? 🤔

[@DcSoundOp]

Thanks for the great question! Depending on the studio, things will differ of course, but it usually starts with a good mic. Large diaphragm dynamics are a popular choice if you want that big bottom broadcast voice sound. You'll see a lot of RE20, RE320, SM7b & even mics like the AKG414 show up in some cases. The goal is a mic that is consistent in the bottom end and doesn't exhibit too much proximity effect from the talent moving closer to it. Once you know the bottom end will be predictable, you can work with it better. From there it is on to the broadcast console, which usually have excellent mic pres with very low noise and a lot of gain. Again, it will differ from one studio to the next, but typically then you'll have a good amount of compression (often multi-band) to knock down trouble spots in each voice without crushing everything flat. Multi-band compression & dynamic EQs & tools like de-essers allow you to address frequencies that are jumping out in a voice, without affecting the whole voice. You can also EQ each voice at the channel level here if needed, letting the HPF go a bit lower than you might for live work (60-80 Hz in a good quiet studio). Next, the program mix will also be compressed, and then limited before leaving the building. Most studios will also employ noise reduction (Cedar is a pricey but popular option) before broadcast, and really there is no limit to what you can do to shape a signature sound for your radio station. Some stations go for a more aggressive in your face sound, others dial it back a bit and let the program breathe. Hopefully that helps a bit, but let me know if you've got other questions!

[@outsidethebox704]

@@DcSoundOp Thanks for the reply, much appreciated. Let me list what audio gear I use and please let me know if I can achieve the radio quality using this gear: SM7B, Cloudlifter, Zoom H6, PreSonus AudioBox and Adobe audition. Thanks in advance. 🙏

[@DcSoundOp]

@@outsidethebox704 We must keep things in perspective, as there is a reason broadcast studios spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on equipment. That being said, you have every tool you need to get broadcast quality results with that setup. Here's where things can go wrong though. 1. The location or recording environment. No amount of gear will help if you've got a noisy or weird sounding room to record in. Even if all you have is cushions and pillows to work with, any improvement you can make in reducing outside noise or reflections from hard walls will be a huge help. 2. The delivery from the presenter. A good performance is needed, especially when it's just dialog. Not everyone sounds broadcast quality in real life and it is our job to help deliver their sound as best we can, not create it where it doesn't exist. Public speaking & voice acting are skills that the folks you hear on the radio are trained in and practice often to maintain. If you are recording yourself, this is one of the easiest places to improve. Slow down, speak clearly & in a tone that feels comfortable and don't forget to breathe! 3. Recording technique. Getting a good level recorded without allowing clipping or leaving a ton of noise is critical. Like before, this is something to practice to develop a sense of what you want to do to get the result you're looking for. For the classic big, full bottom radio sound, you'll usually want to have the level pretty hot going in and the presenter close to the mic to use the proximity effect to your benefit. Managing plosives can be an issue if you go too far though, so beware of mic placement to avoid breath noises. 4. Managing dynamics in the mix after recording. It's super important to keep track of where other sounds are in the mix besides dialog. Your final limiter can often end up burying the dialogue under what should have been quiet background elements if you're not keeping track of things. For dialogue, I typically start with a 3.5:1 - 5:1 ratio compressor on each voice, with a very fast attack & the threshold up pretty high. I'm just using that to knock off and big peaks and bring unexpected (claps, coughs etc.) back down closer to the avg level of the track. From there you can start to decide how much you want to push it to bring up the quieter parts and how you want to shape the overall tone. You've got the right tools, but maybe too wide of a goal. Listen back to your favorite radio stations & try to note what you hear about each that is different. Is one louder than the other, more aggressive sounding, where do their other sounds sit compared to the voices on the broadcast? I bet if you start there, you will identify how they are getting the result much easier that just trying to achieve a general 'big' radio sound.

[@outsidethebox704]

@@DcSoundOp Thank you very much. I’ll follow each and every step you have described. 👍😎

[@BlessenThomas]

How can I send flow 8 main L/R to the main mixer from stage?

[@DcSoundOp]

You'd just use the XLR outs and connect it typically like any other line level source you might have on-stage.

[@BlessenThomas]

@@DcSoundOp on-stage they provide 2(TS) to connect my keyboard left and right.Can I use XLR to 1/4” TRS/TS female adapter to connect?

[@DcSoundOp]

@@BlessenThomas Typically those TS cables will be plugged into a direct box on a live stage. You could use an adapter, or unplug the direct box if there is one and use those XLR cables.

[@BlessenThomas]

@@DcSoundOp Can I use XLR to TS cable for flow 8 Left/right, then plugin TS left/right into a DI box(Behringer Ultra-DI DI400P 1-channel Passive Instrument Direct Box) and send single XLR to Main mixer? I have no Idea from where the TS left/right and XLR for singers coming, looking for something I can easily connect with the current available inputs!

[@desperate4daylight]

Great video! I have a Zoom Livetrack L-8 and have been utterly dissapointed by it. It is incompatible with Android devices and also does not work very well with my ipad. I am hoping this Flow 8 will work out better.

[@ringnecks]

is there a way to get the bluetooth audio on a fader ?

[@DcSoundOp]

Thanks for the question, you can't put the BT onto a physical fader unfortunately. It stays on the knob, though you can assign USB 1/2 or USB 3/4 to faders if you'd like to do that. The option they give you with BT is to route it to the Main mix or to the Monitor mix directly. Sorry for the slow response, thanks again for the message!

[@fightswithspirits915]

Sorry if stupid question. I really like the Peavy PV 10 mixer b/c it sounds amazing for karaoke and DJ music. Does this Flow 8 compare in sound quality? I want something I can cover in dusty outdoors environments while using an app for control.

[@DcSoundOp]

I wish I had a PV 10 here to compare it to, hopefully someone who has used both side by side can comment and let you know. I would be guessing though. Thanks for checking out the video & for the question, it's not a stupid one at all, just tricky to answer.

[@nigelspeakman7554]

Could more than one iPad connect to allow another person to control their own monitor mix?

[@zhincic]

Is there a way to send different outputs to master out, send 1 and send 2? Like - I'd choose to send only the audio from my DJ mixer to master out and into other laptops' OBS software For send 1 - I'd choose to send the mic from this Behringer Flow mixer to my DJ controller as it needs phantom power and i't be more easily managable for me to use just a switch on my DJ controller for when I need the microphone than hand out to another mixer For send 2 - I'd use it for monitoring what's coming out of DJ controller without mic output Is that possible?

[@tonyomusicuk]

Here’s a question, I’m using an acoustic guitar into digitech vocalist live 3 to get vocal harmonies then out from the guitar thru output into the flow 8, should I be using the hi-z input on the flow 8? Then when I switch to electric guitar I go into the vocalist 3 then from the guitar thru output into my boss gt1and a couple of other boss pedals on my pedalboard then into a line input on the flow 8, which I assume is correct?

[@DcSoundOp]

It sounds like you've got it right. Does it sound any different with the pedal board if you don't use the line-in? Is the last pedal in your chain a low or hi impedance output?

[@normsfunvideos4065]

It would be great if inputs 5/6 and 7/8 could be used as 4 mono inputs. That would significantly increase the flexibility of this unit.

[@DevotedtoRock-j1i]

They can be

[@Mtaalas]

People might not realize that motorized faders are DAMN EXPENSIVE! I'm electronics designer and even in thousand quantity, even the cheapest an crappiest are at least 15€ ($18) a piece... that would mean with 6-faders that the price of the thing would be at least 60€ ($72) higher. not to even mention the electronics needed for driving them... and they're mechanical thing that has quite limited use life and then they have to be replaced and depending on your use it might take 3-8 years for that limit to be hit.

[@DcSoundOp]

Thanks for the message @Mtaalas - it's great to hear from a designer who has real experience trying to pull something like this together for production. It is easy to miss how much every detail and decision adds up in time and cost.

[@Manchovic]

I have a home studio but one pair of monitors. can i used this to connect my abelton live from my laptop and my dj mixer to this so i don't have to switch cables at the back of the monitors every time and have both laptop and dj mixer connected to the speakers at all time?

[@DcSoundOp]

Yes, you can absolutely use this mixer for that kind of setup.

[@KushagreDagar]

Nice video.Could you help me with this-I recently bought behringer flow 8 digital mixer.It has 2 monitor sends.Both me & my brother want to have 2 seperate aux mixes through them but each one of them sends signal only to one ear.Meaning monitor send 1 goes to left ear and monitor send 2 goes to right.How can i get 2 seperate mono/stereo mixes in 2 seperate in ear monitors?Please help.Thankyou

[@DcSoundOp]

Those monitor outputs are not headphone amplifiers & are wired TRS as a balanced connector (+/- & commmon) instead of headphones which are the same TRS, but unbalanced to get (L/R on the Tip & Ring with the sleeve being common.) So, to each get a mono mix that hits both headphones, you'll each need a small headphone amplifier like the Behringer P2 - which you'll each connect to the MON output you're using, with a 1/4" balanced TRS cable & that will allow you to control your level locally & will put the mono signal into both sides of your headphones. Let me know if that makes sense or if you need more help, or if I totally misunderstood what you're asking! All the best.

[@KushagreDagar]

@@DcSoundOp this is very helpful👍🏻👍🏻🙏🏻Thanks a lott❤️ Actually each of this headphone amp has 2 inputs as L&R into it.So how will we both get different outs into 2 headphone amps?Could you pls help

[@KushagreDagar]

@@DcSoundOp thankyou.I got it now

[@Ancho-cp4ee]

Hey there, we have a problem with connecting to dj controller pioneer ddj ergo through jack 6mm. The sound coming is so lame like we hear only background of it. But the cable and dj controller themselves work alright with the old non digital mixer. What is wrong?

[@DcSoundOp]

Sounds like something is wrong with your mixer or the cable you are using. Would need a fair bit more detail to be able to begin to diagnose the issue, but have you reached out to Music Tribe for support?

[@sureshpuli2826]

How to increase audio interface volume on streaming..actually connected my laptop on obs but comming on low volume .. Please explain my audio problem..

[@DcSoundOp]

It sounds like you need to turn the volume up somewhere, but are you connecting in Streaming or Recording mode on the FLOW 8 into your computer? If you're in recording mode, you're getting the mic pre-fader without any compression or EQ etc. - where as in streaming mode you are getting the mix output into the computer - so you can increase the level to the computer by using the compressor & output limiter to get the level up where you need it without clipping. Thanks for the questions Suresh!

[@lavinchi6709]

Thank you 🎉

[@DcSoundOp]

You're welcome, thanks for the message!

[@CrossoverClassic]

How does the limiter work?

[@tylertrice1911]

You mentioned about using it with Dante, can you elaborate on that?

[@DcSoundOp]

Sure, this mixer gets used as a local USB interface for an older iMac at the moment, which gives me local mic inputs and headphone output etc. - The Main L/R output is also connected with an AVIO adapter to send that mix to the Dante network, which avoids needing to run DVS on the older iMac. There is also an Avio connected to channels 3/4 to bring audio back from the Dante network to that computer. It's a flexible way to have a local interface & use the network when you need it. Thanks for the question.

[@thomasdenney3187]

I’m wanting to use this to stream

[@gordonlizama9965]

Are there additional fees when ordering directly from Thomann?

[@DcSoundOp]

All of the fees are calculated at checkout just like any other online retailer. Depending on where you are on the planet... there can always be unexpected fees when shipping internationally.

[@chrisholdridge70]

Great video, I do have a question can you play backtracks through my Mac Pro for music and also control the sound and adjust sound with a iPad for my sound guy?

[@DcSoundOp]

Yes you can absolutely connect to one computer for audio playback, while controlling the mixer from another device like an iPad.

[@ilianangelov676]

Hi.I have one question.Its possible to use phone usb charger for power on flow8? Is safety or original adapter is better to use?

[@DcSoundOp]

You can use other power supplies, as long as it can deliver the same power. The original was rated 5V at 2 amps / 10 Watts.

[@north-country-sounds]

I am planning to record a local singer who uses this mixer. She just plugs in her vocal mic and a guitar (and sometimes another mic that goes to a Cajon), so I want to just get a full mix of that output. I am assuming it should be in Streaming Mode to get that full mix? And am I able to use the 1/4" Monitor Send outputs to record to a portable recorder (Zoom H4Essential) using TRS male cables, or is the Main L/Main R XLR outputs the way to go?

[@The07059]

2:00 Mix minus is a long long time thing, I know and use that technique so many years ago, but I just know that it is call "mix minus" few years back🤣🤣🤣

[@sica4873]

Thanks for both videos! Is the headphone output discreet, or is it shared with the mains? Thanks again!

[@DcSoundOp]

It normally outputs the L/R mix unless you solo something using the APP.

[@CamMineo]

Yea please test an smb7 as I’m clueless… I’m using this mixer for live shows as well as recording and streaming with iPad using USB battery power so I don’t have to plug into electricity… and don’t know what mic to get… smb7, electro voice re20, rode nt1… will smb7 sound shit?

[@DcSoundOp]

Okay, I'm officially shopping for an SM7b for future tests - the Sm7 will almost never sound like shit unless you do something really out of wack. The difference between the sm7b, the RE-20 & the NT1 will be very negligible depending on your voice as they are all excellent microphones in their own rights. Worst case with those mics is you may need an external pre-amp or booster like the CloudLifter to get the level up where you need it, though again that will depend entirely on how you are using it and how loud or powerful your voice is. Sorry not to get back to you sooner, let me know if you have any specific questions about your setup or if you're stuck anywhere.

[@CamMineo]

@@DcSoundOp thanks legend. Was concerned about using sm7b with cloudlifter on the flow 8 for busking performances, so I’m waiting for the electro voice re320 in the mail. I also didn’t choose the nt1 because it picks up more room sound and with a poorly treated room or in live settings I’d rather the Sm7b or electro voice re320. We got there in the end. Interested to see how it all sounds when it comes together. Thanks heaps for the reply! Late is better than never! 🙏 😊

[@alvinfarchan]

I can’t send effects to mon 1/2 if pre fader is selected for my mon 1/2. Can I send effects to mon 1/2 in pre fader on my mon 1/2?

[@DcSoundOp]

Hey Alvin, I just posed a video that hopefully answers your question directly - let me know if it still doesn't make sense though. Thanks so much for the message - kzbin.info/www/bejne/omLSaI1jert0j9E

[@marcosyy87]

Hi, plz can it setup a cardioid subwoofer array by controlling polarity and delay of the outputs?

[@DcSoundOp]

No, this is not the right tool for what you are trying to do. Thanks for the question though.

[@peterpengau]

Hi, sir Can i connect this console to jbl 5. 1 soundbar with opt, HDMI, bt and aux? Thank you

[@DcSoundOp]

You would have to connect this through the AUX input I believe. This mixer has bluetooth as an incoming connection, not for pairing playback devices. It also does not have any optical or other digital outputs. Does that answer your question or have I misunderstood what you were saying? Thanks for checking out the video.

[@peterpengau]

@@DcSoundOp thank you, it Does answer my question. Another question : Does aux is not as good as other connection?

[@AustinF29]

Can you record multi-track and assign each Channel to a specific track in your DAW?

[@DcSoundOp]

Yes, absolutely. You need to be in Recording mode on the interface, not streaming mode to get all of the channels, so be sure to check that if you're having trouble. Thanks for checking out the video Austin.

[@wallysmi]

When I connect Flow8 (F8) to Audacity I see a list of F8 sources to connect to. I tried them all and I can only get mics 1 & 2 to record. Can you help?

[@DcSoundOp]

Hey Wally, you're question was a really good one & I just posted a video to answer it directly. I hope you don't mind me giving you a shout out, but I really appreciate you reaching out and hope this helps. I'm happy to talk more in the future if you have additional questions I can answer, all the best! - kzbin.info/www/bejne/rX3LeXd7iKamj7s

[@PeterMossUkulele]

I currently have a Yamaha MG10XU USB mixer and looking to upgrade. The Yamaha has the facility to receive audio via USB directly into Channel 9/10. This is invaluable to me for when I am doing live calls through Zoom (etc). Where does the USB return to on this machine??? Subscribed to you today. Peter.

[@mynextboyfriend]

Will this connect to my car Bluetooth, so I can jam in my ride?

[@waimeaguyz9074]

I don't want motorized faders. It's just one more thing to break.

[@cristibaciu4219]

Hello. If I conect the mixer to my computer with USB can I record multitracks in the same time ? A small band with 2 vocals and 3 instruments. Can I edit later on my computer ? Does it have this kind of APP for windows ?

[@so3648]

Can Bluetooth be used as a line level input? If I want to stream karaoke tracks to the Flow8 via bluetooth from my phone, will the mixer mix this signal with connected mics?

[@DcSoundOp]

Yes, the bluetooth input shows up as a channel of it's own in the app.

[@so3648]

@@DcSoundOp Thanks!

[@lymariejohnson391]

How to plug the laptop into the flow the red and white plug. Cos we have our backing tracks on the pc

[@DcSoundOp]

You have a number of options with the FLOW. The most popular one would be to connect the USB cable to the laptop & use the FLOW as your Laptop's audio interface. If you do this the laptop audio will be controlled by the knob that says bluetooth/USB. You can go into the menu and also choose to have the USB playback from the laptop show up on channel 5/6 - Under MENU -> INPUT -> 5/6 | If you do not want to use the USB cable, you will need to convert your RCA plugs (the red & white) to 1/4" and then plug in to any of the 1/4" inputs, like 5/6 or 7/8 - these are the adapters you would need amzn.to/3tcCnqt

[@ShockingStoriesArm]

hello i have Shure SM7B and clarinet microphone Rumberger , can i use this both same time and recording in pc via Audtion ? Also will works effects with this all process ? like to know also , for Shure will have enought db for working good ? Thanks

[@DcSoundOp]

Hi, yes you can multitrack with this mixer to your computer. You'll need to have the mixer in multi-track mode and it will show up for any DAW the same as other interfaces do. As for an SM7b, almost every modern mixer or interface has enough gain to use them, but it will be up to your use case and preference to decide if you want to slap something like a cloud lifter in-line so you can use less gain on the mixer.

[@ShockingStoriesArm]

​@@DcSoundOp wich one is best choose Klark Teknik MIC BOOSTER CT 1 or CLOUDLIFTER CL-1 ? also i need buy cloudlifter or not ? with this flow 8 i mean

[@ChristopherBoothOz]

I purchased one, I was trying to use it USB to USB/C to stream live on BIGO or record on built it Video. The Device detected but I couldn't get the audio into the Phone, which was a little frustrating. Any ideas ?

[@DcSoundOp]

Hi Christopher, without knowing what type of phone & how you went about setting it up, I'd be guessing. Have you managed to get it working yet? I'm also not familiar with the BIGO app or service & how it handles audio, but the Flow 8 should have no problem getting audio into your phone at least.

[@ChristopherBoothOz]

@DcSoundOp no I couldn't get the phone to record audio from the flow 8

[@djexit]

sir can i use that in live PM while using powered speaker like 2 pcs cve15 1 sub 18inches can this have big headroom?

[@DcSoundOp]

Hi, thanks for the message. I'm not sure I understand what you're asking exactly, can you give some more detail about the setup and your question? Thx

[@djexit]

what i mean is can this mixer can drive a active 15" top spaeker and a active sub 18" with no problem on headroom i am thinking this mixer is only for Live streaming or studio recording,

[@DcSoundOp]

This mixer outputs line level audio that any professional powered speaker will be able to handle as an input. The headroom you will have in the system is a product of the gain structure you create from the mic input, through to the amplifier input. So in short, this unit is fine for live events. Thanks for the message!

[@dawsonzinza1671]

Hi, I love the video. Can you talk about recording with one of these? There are a lot of mixers that can be used as interfaces but are never talked about in a recording setup. Is there a reason for that? Thanks!

[@DcSoundOp]

Hi Dawson, what would you like to know about recording with these specifically? Are you trying to decide between a dedicated audio interface and one that's built into a mixer? Happy to help or address your question in a future video if I can, so let me know what your situation is & I'll do my best.

[@lyh1]

Seems much better than the Yamaha AG if using with mobile. But my setup only use TRS plug, not XLR :(

[@DcSoundOp]

It would be cool if they did a 1/4” line mixer version with rotary encoders instead of faders too.... like the old BCR2000

[@candyman3537]

Does it record multi tracks separately ? Is there a SD card?

[@DcSoundOp]

No and no, this one can act as an interface and/or a mixer, but not a standalone recorder.

[@lorenrelks4090]

From the board, how do you choose inputs 5, 6, 7, or 8? Once selected, can you use the slider under it to control?

[@DcSoundOp]

I'm not sure I understand the question... the last two faders on the board are 5/6 and 7/8. Let me know if I'm not getting what you're asking though & I'll try to help.

[@taniabgonzalezg7197]

Hi I hope you can help me fix this. I just bought the flow 8 and a brand new MacBook. I installed simply put and Everything goes well until after I select the newest version (738 now) and click update. A legend comes up that reads… DFU ERROR 7: failed to prepare dfu update. The mini screen in the mixer stays red in update mode until I turn it off. One time the legend didn’t appear and it continued to update in the simply put but the mixer said UPDATE FAIL. If anyone could help me i would really appreciate it.

[@DcSoundOp]

Follow this conversation's response on the other Flow 8 video - kzbin.info/www/bejne/rmHSqJRpfahonLM

[@robertlaska6315]

Can I use bluetooth headphones as monitors? Something like an in-ear monitoring system ...

[@DcSoundOp]

Hey Robert, the Bluetooth audio connection in the FLOW 8 is a receiver only I believe for playing back tracks. Great question though.

[@robertlaska6315]

@@DcSoundOp that will be great feature...

[@Djtavoz686]

Doesn't not need motorized fadeers I'll trade that for a EQ

[@MOHAMMADAHMADRAZA_QADRI]

Hi! How do you power this mixer?

[@DcSoundOp]

With a 5V usb power supply. It can be battery or wall power 👍🏼

[@teddybonkers337]

Hello sir . I just found your video while I was looking for info on mixers on google. You seem very knowledgeable so I have a question that I hope you can answers. I have two different pairs of active speakers, one is the Kali in 8 and the other is the Edifier s3000pro. One have xlr balance inputs the other have RCA. Ok the question is. Can I use a mixer to connect both pairs at once so the same audio plays in all the speakers? For example TV audio or streaming devices or also a turn table. If so can you recommend a mixer for me that sounds well and don't break the bank? I thank you in advance and send my respect from Puerto Rico 🇵🇷😎✌️. Be safe.

[@sajjidkh4209]

is it possible to create a preset? and if you off and one it will be on the last sceen ?

[@DcSoundOp]

no reason to cross post this to all of the FLOW 8 videos on the channel. Yes, presets are possible & it does return to the last known state at power-up. You can download the app to try in demo mode for how the preset library works.

[@pacopenner9498]

I just received my one. Am asking myself if this can be go into stand-by. If I long press the menu button, all light go out (not every time) except for the light of the menu key, this is only reduced. Can you check with the power meter if this is a real standby and how much the device still consumes?

[@DcSoundOp]

Hi Paco, thanks for the great question. With my unit's brightness all the way up, I measure it at 1.2A @ V - where I normally keep it at 30% brightness, is right at 1A. Putting it into standby as you suggested reduces the current draw to just under .60A - so just about half the power consumption by my meter.

[@DougGray-xf3hz]

Can you describe what is the deal with the four 1/4" TRS input jacks and how they work in stereo and as mono instrument inputs please. I sumise that inputs 5 and 6 are stereo only when inputs are plugged into both but mono instrument input when only input 6 is used. I expect inputs 7 and 8 behave similarly. Is this correct?

[@DcSoundOp]

Sorry for the slow response, I was busy making you a video 👊🏼 kzbin.info/www/bejne/e5LMnIGEnrisrLs

[@DougGray-xf3hz]

@@DcSoundOp Thanks so much for the answer in video. I see clearly how they work but I am still uncertain of the input impedance - I would use the 4 channels as stereo pairs but its not clear if the input impedance will differ between the left (LoZ) and right (HiZ) channels on each pair. Not so cool if that is the case.

[@djcalarasidjnuntabotez-djm2073]

Hello In addition, can the compression applied to the microphone channel help me? How much should I set it to? For shure slxd24e beta58 s50 Thanks

[@Aliveinsideink]

This is a complete noob question, but can I hook my studio monitors up to this as well? I currently have no interface and wanted an all in one device where I can plug in monitors, play my bass, and use the effects to add flavor to my digital synth.

[@DcSoundOp]

Hey Nelson, great question. You can hook up your studio monitors to the Monitor outputs and link them as a stereo pair, which creates a separate mix for monitoring. Using it with my computer here, I use the Main L/R as the sends to my speakers, since I only track with it recording direct outputs to the computer. But yes, you connect studio monitors up for sure! Let me know if that helps or if you have additional questions!

[@playpicek1651]

Is it possible to add the effects (FX) and record them? Because when i record something with fx turned on, it doesnt record the fx, just the dry signal from the microphone :/ anyone knows a solution?

[@DcSoundOp]

Yes, take a look at the different modes the mixer has. Recording mode gives you the channels as direct outs, while streaming mode lets you send a mix with efx to the computer.

[@craigusmcvegas]

You didn't mention that the XR12 can't be used as an audio interface so you can do multi track recording on the xr12. So flow8 is better for this

[@DcSoundOp]

Good call Craigus, thanks for the message.

[@davidismilliganjr]

I've noticed that the effects sent to the monitor send are tied to the main vol. control. why is that? and can they be separated via routing options? pre fade or post fade settings maybe?

[@DevotedtoRock-j1i]

Yes

[@estarok]

Hi, is posible use as an audio interfase in ipad pro 2020?

[@DcSoundOp]

Hi, the flow 8 works as a class compliant USB interface with iOS. I don't have a newer iPad though to see how it works specifically with those or other software, but it works great with my phone and iPad mini 4.

[@toddgoes7935]

I have a question: I want to buy one of those, but I do not want to use my personal cell phone for it. I was thinking about buying a cheap smartphone just for the mixer and install only the app on it. Will it work ok? I was thinking about a Samsung Galaxy J7. Does it require much RAM memory? Also, will I need a sim card or be connected to an Wi-Fi? Thanks in advance.

[@99TheDrummer]

can you adjust the EQ with out the app?

[@DcSoundOp]

No, you've got to use the app for that. Thanks for the message!

[@MiguelantonioIgdalino]

can we plugin a subwoofer to flow 8?

[@DcSoundOp]

Hi, while there is no dedicated connection for a subwoofer on this mixer (or almost any that I can think of) you can certainly connect a subwoofer just like you would to any other mixer. Depending on the model sub you have, you may or may not need an external crossover, though most powered subs and modern amplifiers have them built into a preset for this exact purpose.

[@jasonreales3840]

Can I hook up my Akai mini controller via midi or what would be my option

[@DcSoundOp]

Hey Jason, the FLOW gets it's midi commands from the connected computer via the USB... so I'd guess you'd need to have your controller also connected to that computer and something like www.bome.com/products/miditranslator to route the midi traffic correctly. I have not tried it personally, but that is where I would start unless someone else online is doing it a more obvious way. Thanks for checking out the video though, sorry I couldn't be more helpful.

[@jasonreales3840]

@@DcSoundOp thank you for your response. It was more than helpful. Appreciate it. Keep it up with these informative videos. 🤠🤙🏼

[@jasongibson1823]

Can you tell me if this mixer has delay, not as an effect, as an actual delay for use in syncing up video to audio. I have one on order and want one either way but this would be HUGE for a compact video streaming setup. I'm looking for a 120-180ms delay. Thanks for the videos!

[@DcSoundOp]

No input or output delay on this one currently. I agree it would be a huge help for the video market. Thanks for the message!

[@jasongibson1823]

@@DcSoundOp oh well, it was worth a shot.

[@adammccoy3850]

@DcSoundOp I'm interested purchasing an XR18 thru Thomann as you suggested, to take advantage of the reduced price. My question is how much are the extra taxes and import fees, and what kind of shipping times would I be looking at? I've tried reaching out to Thomann via email with these questions but I have yet to receive any response. **Edit Thomann finally got back to me and said that, for the US, the VAT is not applicable but there may be extra fees from UPS and Customs. UPS pretty much said you will know when you get the bill!! As for Customs, well... no luck so far there either.

[@DcSoundOp]

Without knowing the country of origin & exactly what is declared by the shipper for the specific shipment you receive, it's hard to add up on the go. Googling shows rates avg. from 5% to 10% on electronics like this, but could be higher for sure. I've also seen audio mixers classified at 2.5% for different reasons, again depending on exactly how the shipper describes it on their originating documents. Did you decide to import one and see what happens?

[@adammccoy3850]

@@DcSoundOp that's unfortunate. I was hoping to find more clarity about the process and final cost before I decided, but it looks like that is impossible at this point.... I may just go ahead and see how it turns out.🤞

[@alexandervalledor]

What mic are you using? it sounds great!

[@DcSoundOp]

That would have been an Audio Technica ES935, the ML or microline condenser version. One of my favorite lectern mics, I always carry a pair with me.

[@gurumonkey]

Do you know if soloing sends the solo signal just to headphones like other mixers?

[@DcSoundOp]

Hey Owen, thanks for the message, I just posted a video that answers your question directly. Here it is so you can check it out - kzbin.info/www/bejne/omLSaI1jert0j9E Thanks for the great question, I really appreciate it.

[@gurumonkey]

@@DcSoundOp fantastic. you nailed my question on the head too, i was curious if it was a control room type situation or not.

[@studiod35]

Can it connect directly to a ipad pro to usb ? I mean Stream audio from the Ipad (Not from a computer)

[@DevotedtoRock-j1i]

Yes

[@symbiat0]

Generally, if you have an iPad Pro, you can get USB-C -> USB-B and USB-C -> microUSB cables - don't need no silly dongle...

[@DcSoundOp]

If you go micro-USB on a device like the flow to USB-C in a single cable to your iPad pro, how do you handle charging the device? I know with my older iPads, doing a multi-track recording for any amount of time was pretty heavy on battery use. Thanks for the message!

[@Daffe8]

This mixer comes with Noise Gate?

[@DcSoundOp]

No, no noise gate at the moment. Thanks for the message.

[@EamonDaly]

Thanks for the video! Two fader questions: I see there's a rotary control for USB/bluetooth levels, but can faders be mapped to the USB or bluetooth inputs instead (as on the AG-06)? Also, can a fader be mapped as a left/right mono crossfader instead of a stereo level?

[@DcSoundOp]

I have a new video coming out soon that covers some of the firmware updates coming up - can't release it just yet, but it's coming soon. Great questions though!

[@honestnewsnet]

Will this power SM7B mic?

[@DcSoundOp]

The SM7b doesn't require any external power to operate, as it is a dynamic mic, but some folks do like to use boosters like the cloud lifter to bring the level up, as they are a quiet mic. If that's the question, it isn't required, but some folks who talk softly or keep the mic at a distance may want to use one with this mixer. Thanks for the question.

[@RennerRye]

Thanks for the video, new here to the field, wondering why when I use my headphone and press solo, instantly it drops about 5dB, is there any setting I should notice? Or ummmm it's normal? Tks.

[@DcSoundOp]

Usually that is a result of the solo bus being setup as a PFL of Pre-Fade-Listen - so when you solo a channel you are hearing it right after the mic pre with no additional gain from the channel, eq or dynamics. Hopefully that makes sense, but it is absolutely normal.

[@ChrisMutchJones]

Hey, is it possible to separate the Bluetooth out into two faders LR split tracks?

[@DcSoundOp]

Hey Chris, with the current firmware it is not possible unfortunately. Thanks for watching & for the message!

[@wolfmazter]

I have a pair of Bluetooth enabled mackie speakers. I'm assuming the BT on the flow is input only correct?

[@DcSoundOp]

Right you are Noah, great question!

[@dominicboos]

Can you “mute” tracks from the app even though the faders are still up? Say if you walk away from it.

[@DcSoundOp]

Yes absolutely, each channel has a mute in the app.

[@dominicboos]

@@DcSoundOp thank you!

[@previncoin8592]

What are the settings for streaming audio from monitor outputs to an iPad? The connectIon is confirmed by the tablet but can detect no audio coming into the device, there isn’t a user manual & the quick start guide is incomplete. Would appreciate any info.

[@DcSoundOp]

Are you on the latest firmware? Are you in Streaming Mode or Recording Mode? If you are in streaming mode, the unit will be getting the L/R main mix from your mixer, so make sure there is something being sent there. You should also know for testing, that external devices like this will NOT work with facetime or voice calls from iOS, but you can test in the Voice memos app to see if it is working.

[@911appliance]

Can you play music with a thumb drive?

[@DcSoundOp]

No, not on this one. Thanks for the great question.

[@user-wf9wq9kq6u]

Hi, thanks, would it be possible to plug a stereo synth lineouts to 3 and 4 via the 1/4” and pan them permanently left and right to be treated as a stereo channel? Also is it class conpliant and works well with ipad daws?

[@alaskaaudioguy35]

Waiting or it to be available

[@rosatioilportraits3561]

Thanks for the video... my question is, I’m looking to use wireless in ear monitors on stage. I want control for my vocals mix and band mix. I have the xvive u4 transmitter/receiver. How to connect it? Will the Flow 8 do this for me or is there a better mixer option? I like the option of controlling a live mix without having the unit sitting next to me. I’m new at this but the Flow 8 looks interesting. Thanks!

[@DcSoundOp]

Hi Rosati, you can definitely do this, you would just need a 1/4" TRS (m) to XLR (m) adapter or cable to connect that unit to the 1/4" MON output on the console. That's a mono wireless unit you have, so one monitor send should do it for you. Almost all digital mixers these days can be controlled by an app remotely, so there are tons of other options you could choose from to do this depending on your needs. Thanks for the great question.

[@NZbluesky]

I have an issue maybe someone can help? In channels 7/8 I'm driving an iPad [headfone] and can not seem to get even levels. I have tried multiple times to use the Ezy gain system but to no avail. I'm having to use the balance control in 7/8 to even up the channels. Is there any way to individually adjust the gain controls between channels 7 and 8?

[@iamsomewhere]

I REALLY want to know more about the four quarter-inch inputs (5/6 & 7/8). I understand from the quick-start guide that 5L and 7L are line-level inputs and 6R and 8R are Hi-Z inputs, but are the jack inputs themselves balanced TRS, or only TR?

[@iamsomewhere]

Just answered my own question (they are TRS), for anyone else who is interested. I found the specs: Line Inputs : Type : 2 x 1/4" TRS jacks, balanced (channels 5L / 7L) Impedance : 20 kΩ balanced, 10 kΩ unbalanced Gain range : -20 dB to +60 dB Distortion (THD+N) : 0.005%, A-weighted, 0 dB gain, 0 dBu out Max. input level : +22 dBu Guitar (Hi-Z) Inputs : Type : 2 x 1/4" TRS jacks, balanced (channels 6R / 8R) Impedance : 2 MΩ balanced, 1 MΩ unbalanced Distortion (THD+N) : 0.005%, A-weighted, 0 dB gain, 0 dBu out Max. input level : +19 dBu

[@DcSoundOp]

Hey Zachary, you beat me to it! Sorry I didn't get a chance to respond to your message sooner. I was actually working on another follow up on the FLOW that should be out next week, talking about the new Beta firmware I've been testing. Anyway, thanks for posting the answer too for other folks to have access to, your awesome! Hope you have a great day!

[@jasongibson1823]

Do you think they will ever ship this to the US? Had one on order for months. Getting pretty frustrated.

[@DcSoundOp]

Who did you order it with & what are they telling you? I know different people were given different timelines to expect when they ordered from different places, but just what I’ve read online. If they’re way beyond what they told you upfront, I’d think about asking for my $$ back.

[@jasongibson1823]

@@DcSoundOp Sweetwater. They keep pushing out my delivery date. It's not their fault, it's just getting frustrating. I ordered December 1st and it's almost April :(

[@robertromans6924]

Same story here. Ordered from Sweetwater, and was initially told early March. Today, they said late April. They blame COVID, but these are being sold (and advertised as in stock) from Asian and European retailers (I'm pretty sure COVID is over there too)!

[@DcSoundOp]

@@robertromans6924 I can't imagine that ship jammed up in the Suez Canal right now is going to help things either. I know from the comments here that folks outside of the states are getting the ones they ordered. I also know that Thomann had them available to ship to the states, but are now showing 5-7 weeks until they are back in stock - redir.love/thoprod/505388?partner_id=60828 - Covid could be an absolutely be a valid reason still & likely will be something you hear for the foreseeable future from everyone. The knock on effect of a single critical component being delayed for a product can be significant, as I imagine a major canal being closed for two or more days will have on the whole world in the coming weeks. Are you going to wait for yours or did Sweetwater offer you any reasonable options?

[@robertromans6924]

@@DcSoundOp I’ve made the choice to wait it out. SW was (sadly), kinda useless. I specifically asked them if they could recommend a similar product (you know...close enough), and was told “not at that price point.” I told them that I didn’t ask about the the price of their recommendation, just wanted to know if they could point me to a somewhat similar product. They came back with recommendations for small, basic analog mixers that were nothing like the F8.

[@Auska64]

Do it have noise gate

[@DcSoundOp]

The current firmware afaik does not include any noise gates. Thanks for checking out the video & asking though. All the best!

[@Auska64]

Thanks

[@blueskeyofh]

I can't seem to upload the SimplyPut file. My computer wants to load it as a PDF.

[@DcSoundOp]

Right click & then extract the contents of the Zip file and you should be set.

[@donaldpruitt6787]

Will it work as a interface for DAW ‘S like studio waveform , ableton ?

[@DcSoundOp]

HI Donald, it sure does work just like any other small interface you're used to already. Thanks for the message!

[@donaldpruitt6787]

@@DcSoundOp Thanks again Looks good to me 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@tonynacho]

Can this be powered from USB-C port of iPad Pro?

[@DcSoundOp]

That port only supplies 7.5 watts, while this unit is rated at a max of 10 watts, with the average closer to 5 watts during typical use. I'd bet with the LEDs turned all the way down, you could do it, but I don't have an iPad Pro on hand to try. You'd also need a Y cable to split the power to the power input of the FLOW 8, which is the micro USB, but that wouldn't be to difficult to sort. Thanks for the interesting question.

[@jaywong8023]

How is the preamp is it midas preamp? or midas grade only?

[@DcSoundOp]

What does 'midas preamp' or 'midas grade' mean to you?