• 32-channel analogue mixing desk for live sound, recording and rehearsal rooms
• 24 mono channel strips and four stereo channel strips
• Soundcraft Ghost microphone preamplifier for clear, warm analogue sound
• Microphone/line inputs via combo sockets
• Independently switchable 48 V phantom power for channels 1–10 and 11–24
• Hi-Z switch on channels 21–24
• Switchable 100 Hz high-pass filter and pad function on the microphone/line channels
• Soundcraft Sapphyre EQs for musical tone shaping on all channels
• dbx single-knob compressors with harmonic enrichment on the microphone/line channels
• Integrated Lexicon hardware effects processor
• Integrated 4×4 USB-C audio interface with up to 192 kHz and 24-bit resolution
• Four aux sends and four subgroups
• Separate monitor bus with PFL/AFL function and programmable ‘Talkback To’ routing
• Independent control room and headphone outputs with direct routing of USB returns
• TRS inserts on the mono channels, plus stereo mix and control room outputs via XLR
• SSM level metres for monitoring inputs and outputs
• Robust all-metal chassis

The Soundcraft Signature Plus 32 is a large-format 32-channel analogue mixing console with 24 mono and four stereo channel strips, combining Ghost microphone preamps and Sapphyre EQs with extensive routing options.

The integrated dbx single-knob compressors enable straightforward dynamic processing of microphone and line channels. Harmonic enrichment helps to achieve a powerful and musical sound.

Lexicon effects enjoy an excellent reputation in professional studio and live applications. The integrated Lexicon hardware effects processor brings the quality of effects – particularly prized for their natural and spacious reverb sounds – directly to the mixing desk. There are 32 effect programmes to choose from across two banks, including reverb, plate, room, delay, chorus, flanger and phaser effects, as well as combined effect variants. Three controls allow direct adjustment of programme-specific parameters. Tap tempo and memory slots for effect presets simplify operation; two separate footswitch sockets also allow remote control of FX Mute and tap tempo.

Four aux sends, each with its own output, and four group outputs enable flexible signal distribution for monitor sends, external effects and subgroups. Each input channel can be assigned to the stereo mix as well as to groups 1–2 and 3–4; the four aux sends can each be switched between pre-and post-fader operation. Stereo mix and control room outputs via XLR, as well as an independent control room and headphone section with separate level controls, offer versatile monitoring options. Mute, Dim and Mono functions, a dedicated Listen bus with PFL/AFL, assignable talkback routing and the SSM level meter facilitate quick and precise signal monitoring.

The integrated 4×4 USB-C audio interface operates at up to 192 kHz and 24-bit resolution, integrating the mixing desk into modern recording and playback set-ups. USB returns can be routed directly to the monitor channels; separately switchable 48 V phantom power, Hi-Z inputs on channels 21–24, pad and 100 Hz high-pass filter, and the SSM level meter complete the features. The robust all-metal chassis measures 106 × 806 × 535 mm (H × W × D); the mixing console weighs 13.9 kg.

CONCLUSION: The Soundcraft Signature Plus 16 leaves me with a predominantly positive impression. I particularly like the good resistance of all the faders and the user interface, which is at a comfortable angle thanks to the raised rear section. The included rack brackets also make it easier to plan a 19-inch installation. In terms of sound, the Lexicon algorithms are, for me, one of the console’s clear strengths: they’re still impressive today and make the internal effects section an important part of the console.