StudioLive RML-Series Mixers

Overview

Thank you for purchasing a PreSonus® StudioLive™ RML-series Active Integration™ digital mixer. PreSonus Audio Electronics, Inc., has designed the RML32AI and RML16AI utilizing high-grade components to ensure optimum performance that will last a lifetime.

The powerful, scalable, and compact StudioLive RML32AI and RML16AI 32x16x3 rack-mount mixers combine the all new, battle-ready UC Surface touch-control software for Windows®, Mac® OS X, and iOS® with a powerful and comprehensive set of facilities for up to 64-channel mixing.

Based on the StudioLive AI-series engine, the StudioLive RML-series' Active Integration™ technology provides direct Wi-Fi and Ethernet networking, along with a tightly integrated software suite that includes Capture™ recording software with true virtual soundcheck and Studio One® Artist DAW software for Mac and Windows. Put all of this together and your StudioLive RML-series mixer provides you with a complete solution for live-sound mixing and studio recording.

We encourage you to contact us with questions or comments regarding this product. PreSonus Audio Electronics, Inc., is committed to constant product improvement, and we value your suggestions highly. We believe the best way to achieve our goal of constant product improvement is by listening to the real experts: our valued customers. We appreciate the support you've shown us through the purchase of this product.

For technical support, please visit www.presonus.com/support/Contact-Technical-Support.

What's In The Box

The following items are included with your StudioLive RML32AI or RML16AI mixer:

• StudioLive™ RML32AI or RML16AI mixer
• FireWire 800 cable
• Ethernet cable
• Power cable
• Product registration and software authorization card
• This Quick Start Guide

Diagram Description: Images show the front panels of the StudioLive RML32AI and RML16AI mixers, displaying their input and output connectors. Also shown are the included FireWire, Ethernet, and power cables, along with a product registration card and the Quick Start Guide itself.

Getting Started

Register Your StudioLive RML-Series Mixer

Before proceeding, please register your StudioLive RML-series mixer online at https://my.PreSonus.com to download and authorize included software, manuals, and video guides.

Your StudioLive RML-series mixer is a powerful suite of integrated hardware and software solutions. The following software is included:

• UC-Surface battle-ready mix-control application
• QMix™-AI personal monitor control
• Capture™ multitrack recording and virtual sound check
• Studio One® Artist professional DAW

Download UC-Surface for iPad® and Qmix™-Ai

PreSonus' UC-Surface mix-control app for iPad® and QMix™-AI aux-mix control app for iPhone®/iPod touch® are available as free downloads from the Apple App Store. Download this software to control your StudioLive RML-series mixer.

Update All Firmware and Software

Ensure all associated firmware and software are updated, including the RML-series mixers, CS18AI, UC Surface, Capture, and Studio One. Consult the RML-Series Owner's Manual or the CS18AI Owner's Manual for firmware update instructions. Check the RML-Series downloads page for UC Surface and Capture software updates. Consult your My PreSonus account for Studio One software updates.

Note: If using a MOTU AVB Switch, ensure it is updated to the latest firmware.

Networking the RML-Series Mixer

IP Address Modes

An IP Address is a unique string of numbers that identifies each computer or device using the Internet Protocol to communicate over a network. StudioLive RM Mixers support three IP Address modes:

• Dynamic: The most common setting. The mixer is assigned an IP Address by a DHCP server (usually included in routers). The mixer waits for a DHCP server to provide an address.
• Static Self Assigned: Used for direct connections between the mixer and another device (e.g., AI Console mixer, CS18AI) without a router. The mixer assigns itself an IP Address from a compatible range.
• Static Manual: Reserved for complex networking installations, typically set up by an IT professional. Allows manual assignment of IP Address, Subnet Mask, and Gateway. Consult your IT Administrator before configuring this mode.

IP Address modes can be set in the UC Surface Settings view (Network tab) or during bootup:

• Hold the Cue Source button while booting to reset to Dynamic mode (LED meters flash Yellow).
• Hold the Main Source button while booting to reset to Self-assigned IP mode (LED meters flash Red).

Wired Ethernet Control Setup

To set up control with a wired Ethernet connection, connect the included Ethernet cable from the mixer's Ethernet control port to a network router that is also connected to your computer or iPad. When UC-Surface is launched with the mixer and control device on the same network, the software should automatically detect the mixer.

Diagram Description: A diagram illustrates a typical wired Ethernet control setup. It shows a computer or iPad connected wirelessly or via Ethernet to a network router. The StudioLive RML mixer is connected to the router via an Ethernet cable. This setup allows for control of the mixer using software like UC-Surface.

Making the Connections

Mixer Anatomy

Front Panels: Feature input connectors (MIC/LINE INPUT), output connectors (Phones, Tape In, Mono Out, Main Out, Mix Outputs), meters, control buttons (Cue, Mute, All, Meters Mode Select), USB port, and headphone jacks with source select and level controls.

Rear Panels: Include the Power IEC connector and switch, MIDI In/Out ports, an Option Card slot, Firewire S800 ports, Ethernet port, S/PDIF output, and additional Mix Outputs.

Diagram Description: Diagrams illustrate the front and rear panels of the StudioLive RML32AI and RML16AI mixers, labeling all input/output connectors, ports, and controls.

Single RML Mixer Setup

StudioLive RML32AI and RML16AI mixers integrate tightly with Capture and Studio One Artist software for recording and playback. You can record a live show to Capture, save the mixer scene, and open it in Studio One, where Fat Channel settings are loaded into the Studio One Fat Channel Native Effects™ plug-in. The mixer can also serve as an audio interface and monitor mixer for studio recording.

1. Register your StudioLive AI mixer and download the Universal Control installer (Mac/Windows) from your My PreSonus account. This includes UC-Surface and necessary drivers.
2. Launch the installer and follow the on-screen instructions. Reboot your computer to complete installation.
3. Connect your StudioLive AI mixer to your computer using the included FireWire cable and ensure both are on the same network.

Diagram Description: A diagram shows a single StudioLive RML mixer connected via FireWire to a computer and via Ethernet to a network router. The computer is also connected to the router. This setup enables control and recording.

Cascading RML Mixer Setup

Cascading allows you to use multiple RML-series mixers together. All configurations require connecting mixers via Ethernet using a compatible AVB switch. Refer to the PreSonus Knowledge Base for a list of compatible AVB switches.

Note: If using a MOTU AVB Switch, ensure it is updated to the latest firmware.

RML Mixers with UC Surface

Three main connection methods for UC Surface control:

• Wired to the AVB Switch via Ethernet
• Wired to the Wireless Router via Ethernet
• Wireless connection to the Router

NOTE: If connecting directly to the AVB switch without a wireless router, configure mixers for a Static IP Address. Consult your IT administrator for compatible IP address and Subnet Mask settings (refer to section 2.1 IP Addresses).

Diagram Description: A diagram illustrates cascading two RML mixers. They are connected via Ethernet to an AVB switch. Control devices (iPad, Windows computer) are shown connected to the network (via Wi-Fi to a wireless router or wired to the AVB switch), running UC Surface software to control the cascaded mixers.

RML Mixers with CS18AI and UC Surface

To control cascaded RML mixers with a CS18AI, connect it via the AVB Ethernet switch to leverage onboard audio I/O. UC Surface devices can connect wired or wirelessly as described above. Cascading must be set up with UC Surface before connecting the CS18AI.

Diagram Description: A diagram shows two RML mixers connected via Ethernet to an AVB switch. A CS18AI unit is also connected to the AVB switch. Control devices (iPad, Windows computer) are shown connected to the network, running UC Surface software. This setup allows control of cascaded mixers via the CS18AI and UC Surface.

Connecting a Computer for Recording/Playback

To enable computer recording and playback, connect your computer to the Master RML mixer via FireWire. If your computer is also connected to the Wireless Router (wired or wirelessly), you can remotely control Capture from your CS18AI or UC Surface.

Diagram Description: A diagram shows two RML mixers connected via Ethernet to an AVB switch. A FireWire-equipped recording computer is connected via FireWire to the first mixer (Master). The AVB switch is connected to a wireless router, which connects to an iPad and a Windows computer running UC Surface. A CS18AI unit is also connected to the AVB switch. This setup facilitates recording and remote control.

Turning on Cascading

Cascading is configured using UC Surface. First, select the mixer to be used as the master for channels 1-32.

Verification: Press the Mute All button on the mixer's front panel. If all channels in UC Surface mute, you are connected to the correct mixer.

In UC Surface, open the Settings view and navigate to the Networking tab. Locate the cascading mixers section and select the mixer for channels 33-64 from the dropdown list.

Note: Establishing the cascaded connection may take several seconds. Upon completion, both mixers will be displayed in the Master and Slave unit spaces, effectively creating a single 64-channel mixer.

Changes observed in UC Surface after cascading:

• The tab for the slave mixer will disappear.
• The mixer view will display all 64 channels for both mixers.

To remove the cascade: Select 'None' from the 'Cascade with mixer' dropdown list.

If using a CS18AI, select either mixer from the UCNET screen dropdown to control both mixers as a single 64-channel system.

You are now set up with the StudioLive AVB 64-channel mixing system! For details on configuring your StudioLive AI as the default sound input/output device, refer to the user manual and video guides in your My PreSonus account.

Getting Started with UC-Surface

StudioLive RML32AI and RML16AI mixers are controlled via the UC-Surface application, designed for live mixing with immediate access to primary mixing functionality without complex navigation.

Anatomy of the UC-Surface Screen

The UC-Surface screen is organized into several key areas:

• 1. Connected device tabs: Switch between different mixers on the network.
• 2. Settings button: Opens the mixer settings screen for global configurations (sampling rate, permissions, network settings, etc.).
• 3. Fat Channel area: Displays the Fat Channel DSP for selected channels or outputs.
• 4. Presets button: Accesses Presets for Fat Channel, GEQ, FX, and Complete Scenes.
• 5. Channel strip area: Shows input channels and fader levels for the selected mix.
• 6. Flex channel strip: Displays the master channel for the selected mix.
• 7. Mix selection area: Primary navigation for selecting and configuring mixes.
• 8. Main output area: Displays faders and meters for the Main Left/Right and Mono/Center mix buses.
• 9. Input Meter Bridge and Navigation: Shows input meters for all channels and allows navigation to specific channels.

Diagram Description: A screenshot of the UC-Surface application interface is shown, with numbered callouts indicating the different functional areas of the screen.

Connected device tabs

These tabs allow switching control between different mixers available on the network.

Settings button

Clicking this button opens the mixer settings screen, where you can configure global settings like sampling rate, permissions, and wireless network settings. The settings screen includes tabs for Device Settings, Aux. Routing, Backup, Smaart Wizards, and Networking.

Fat Channel Area

This area dynamically displays information based on your workflow. You can select input channels, the Flex Master Channel, or Main outputs to view their associated Fat Channel DSP. Selecting the Flex Master Channel GEQ or FX Edit shows graphic EQ or effects settings. Selecting Scenes/Mutes displays Quick Scenes and Mute Groups.

The Parameter Box in UC-Surface replaces traditional knobs with a more informative display showing parameter name, current value, and a meter. On touchscreens, touching the box opens an adjustment meter; moving your finger along the meter changes the value. With a mouse, clicking the box displays the meter, or the scroll wheel can adjust the value directly.

Channel and Mix Settings

In the Fat Channel view, you can edit channel names, select input sources, assign channel types and icons, and configure stereo linking. Channel types and icons enhance workflow by automatically naming channels, displaying icons, and enabling contextual filtering for options. For mixes, settings include Stereo Linking, changing a mix between Aux and Subgroup, naming the mix, and setting output delay.

Presets Button

This button accesses the Presets menu for the Fat Channel, graphic EQ, or FX bus, and the Complete Scenes menu for Scenes/Mute Groups. Refer to the user manual and video guides for more details.

Channel Strip Area

This area displays input channels and fader levels for the selected mix. Key elements include:

• 1. EQ micro view: Selects the channel and opens the Fat Channel.
• 2. Solo: Solos the channel.
• 3. Mute: Mutes the channel.
• 4. Pan: Controls the channel's stereo pan.
• 5. Channel fader: Controls the channel level.
• 6. Input meter: Shows input signal level.
• 7. Compressor gain-reduction meter: Indicates compressor activity.
• 8. Gate gain-reduction meter: Indicates gate activity.
• 9. Channel number, name, and type icon: Selects the channel and opens the Fat Channel.

Flex Master Channel Strip

This strip shows the master channel for the selected mix (e.g., Mix 3 master for Mix 3 output). Elements include:

• 1. EQ micro view: Selects the Mix master and opens the Fat Channel.
• 2. Solo: Solos the Mix master.
• 3. Mute: Mutes the Mix master.
• 4. GEQ or FX Edit: Opens the graphic EQ or effects editor.
• 5. Mix fader: Controls the Mix master level.
• 6. Output meter: Shows the output signal level.
• 7. Compressor gain-reduction meter: Indicates compressor activity.
• 8. Gate gain-reduction meter: Indicates gate activity.
• 9. Mix number, name, and type icon: Selects the Mix master and opens the Fat Channel.

Mix Selection Area

This is the primary navigation area for selecting and configuring mixes. It includes mix selection buttons, FX Mix selection buttons, the Main Mix select button, a Filter DCA Groups tab, and an arrow to hide Main Mix Faders.

Diagram Description: A screenshot shows the Mix Selection Area of UC-Surface, highlighting buttons for selecting different mixes (Aux 1-16, FX A-D, Main Mix) and other navigation elements.

Quick Access Panel

Provides quick access to FX mutes and Tap Tempo buttons for delay effects when an FX mix is selected. It includes:

• 1. Capture: Opens the remote Capture control view.
• 2. Talkback: Toggles Talkback on/off.
• 3. Scenes/Mutes: Displays Quick Scenes and Mute Groups.
• 4. FX Mutes: Mute buttons for the four FX sends.
• 5. FX Tap: Tap Tempo buttons for the two delay FX.

Main Output Area

Displays faders and meters for the main mix buses. It includes:

• 1. EQ microview: Selects the main mix and opens the Fat Channel.
• 2. Quick Access Bar Arrow: Opens the Quick Access Bar.
• 3. Main Left/Right channel strip: Displays the fader and meters for the Main L/R mix bus.
• 4. Main Mono/Center channel strip: Displays the fader and meter for the Main Mono mix bus.

Input Meter Bridge and Navigation

The Meter Bridge at the bottom of the application shows input meters for all channels. A highlighted window indicates the channels currently displayed in the input channel area. You can use the Meter Bridge to navigate to specific channels by selecting them or dragging the highlighted window. Swiping the input channel area also scrolls through channels, with the Meter Bridge window following your position.

For more advanced UC-Surface features, refer to the user manual and video guides in your My PreSonus account.

Bonus: PreSonus' Rice Dressing Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb chopped chicken liver
• 1 onion (diced)
• 2 green peppers (diced)
• 4-6 celery stalks (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/4 C. chopped fresh parsley
• 3 C. chicken stock
• 6 C. cooked rice
• 1 Tbs. oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cayenne pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat oil on medium high and add meat, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir until meat begins to brown.
2. Lower heat and add all vegetables. Cook until onions are transparent and celery is very tender. Add stock as necessary to prevent burning.
3. Stir in cooked rice. Add remaining stock and simmer on low until ready to serve.

Contact Information

PreSonus Audio Electronics, Inc.

18011 Grand Bay Ct. • Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70809 USA

Phone: +1-225-216-7887

Website: www.presonus.com

Part Number: 825-WLV0073-A