PreSonus StudioLive AR8 Review: Discontinued Mixer Still Worth Buying?

For business podcasters building out a dedicated podcast studio, the PreSonus StudioLive AR8 is a popular option. This desktop mixer also functions as an audio interface so you can speed up production cycles and maintain your publication schedule.

While this product has recently been discontinued, it’s still available from resellers and since it’s so popular among podcasters, we’ll walk you through the features that made it so beloved and offer up alternatives with similar features.

Looking for a different mixer/audio interface? We list five alternatives at the bottom of the guide.

Let’s dive in.

The PreSonus StudioLive AR8 at a glance

Let’s take a closer look at these features below.

PreSonus StudioLive AR8 features

The PreSonus StudioLive AR8 is a hybrid analog mixer and audio interface with eight channels, four mic inputs, a digital USB connection, and an onboard recorder for direct audio capture.

Its primary features include:

• 4 mic inputs: This eight-channel mixer comes with four mic inputs, six line-level inputs (two mono and two stereo), and two instrument/line inputs. You can also switch on phantom power for compatible mics.
• XMAX mic preamps: There are four XMAX microphone preamps with up to 43dB of gain. Keep in mind that phantom power affects all four preamps at once.
• The super channel (stereo channel 7/8): This channel acts as a Bluetooth input, RCA jack, 1/8” stereo, and USB input at the same time. You can even use it to play background music from the built-in SD card.
• Bluetooth: You can connect your phone to stereo channel 7/8 if you want to play music remotely. You can’t use this connection to host remote call-ins, though (follow this process to do so if needed).
• Stereo SD recorder: You can connect a 32GB SD card to record audio directly to the mixer. You can also use it to play background music if you don’t have a phone for Bluetooth connectivity.
• Internal stereo effects processor: There are 16 FX presets to choose from, including reverb, chorus, and slapback. Notice the dedicated effects return and master level fader.
• EQ level settings: Every channel (except for 7/8) comes with three-band EQ, pan, mute, and PFL / solo. You can also save channel presets to shorten your recording setup process.
• Adjustable low-pass filter: The low-pass filter can reduce background noise on channels 1 through 5/6. Keep in mind this isn’t available on ST 7/8.

Note that original AR8 mixers came with software like Capture and Studio One Artist. These aren’t included with secondhand units, but you can still download alternative podcast editing software instead.

PreSonus StudioLive AR8 pros

• You can automatically save channel presets for future shows.
• Phantom power means the mixer is compatible with most condenser microphones.
• You can use the onboard SD card to record remote podcasts without a computer.
• The Bluetooth channel lets you play back music for breaks, ads, sponsorships, and more.

PreSonus StudioLive AR8 cons

• This is a discontinued mixer, so finding the right unit may take some time.
• Many users report issues with damaged power supplies, which can be difficult to replace/repair since the mixer is discontinued.
• There’s only a single input for headphones, which may be problematic for shows with multiple guests.
• The AR8 only provides 48dB of gain, which is less than certain competitors (more on this later).

PreSonus StudioLive AR8 hardware

The PreSonus StudioLive AR8 originally shipped with the mixer, a USB 2.0 cable, power cable, user manual, and Studio Magic Suite download codes. Used units may omit the cable and software codes.

Original PreSonus StudioLive AR8 mixers came with:

• The mixer itself
• A user manual
• A USB 2.0 cable
• A power cable
• Download codes for the Studio Magic Suite

But the PreSonus StudioLive AR8 is no longer in production — and buying a used unit can be hit or miss. The mixer may come with a power cable and user manual, but you may or may not get a USB cable or software download codes.

Fortunately, the core abilities of the AR8 remain the same. Used units are still capable of mixing live shows or capturing podcast audio. You’ll need to purchase microphones and headphones separately; a podcast equipment bundle can help you cover those accessories at once.

How to use a PreSonus StudioLive AR8

The PreSonus StudioLive AR8 is plug-and-play, no drivers required. Connect it to power and your computer, set gain knobs to zero, connect your microphones, and configure your DAW to start recording.

Follow these 11 steps to record with your PreSonus StudioLive AR8:

1. Plug the AR8 into a power source.
2. Connect the mixer to your computer.
3. Set your gain knobs to zero. 
4. Connect your microphone(s) to the correct channel(s).
5. Activate phantom power (if needed). Note that turning on phantom power affects all your mic inputs.
6. Plug in your headphones.
7. Adjust your EQs, gain knobs, and FX as needed.
8. Connect your phone with the Bluetooth connector to play background audio.
9. Raise your main volume knob until satisfied with the level.
10. Insert an SD card or pull up your DAW of choice.
11. Press the record button to begin recording (then hit record plus play to stop).

Need visual instructions? Refer to the video guide below:

If you’re planning on livestreaming your podcast on video, pair the AR8 with a quality podcast camera for a professional setup. Here’s a helpful guide to the livestream side:

Where to find a used PreSonus StudioLive AR8

The PreSonus StudioLive AR8 was discontinued in 2022 and is no longer sold new. Used units appear regularly on eBay, Reverb, Guitar Center, and Sweetwater Gear Exchange, or via Reddit’s r/audio community.

As mentioned, the PreSonus StudioLive AR8 was discontinued in 2022. You can’t purchase it from the PreSonus website or from affiliate sites like Amazon.

• eBay
• Reverb
• Guitar Center
• Sweetwater Gear Exchange

You can also post on Reddit forums like r/audio to hunt for possible leads.

Alternatives to the PreSonus StudioLive AR8

The best alternatives to the PreSonus StudioLive AR8 include the Maonocaster E2, TASCAM Mixcast 4, Behringer XENYX, ZOOM PodTrak P8, and Mackie ProFX, all still in production and suited to different budgets and recording setups.

Maonocaster

The Maonocaster E2 and the Maonocaster Lite are two popular mixers used in place of the AR8. Both of these models are still in production, which means you can purchase them directly from the company’s website.

These mixers also offer a few unique features you can’t get on an AR8. Both come with customizable sound pads and compatible microphones so you can start recording almost immediately.

Just keep in mind you can’t record directly on either of these two mixers. If that’s a dealbreaker for your setup, you need to look at another alternative.

TASCAM Mixcast 4

If you’d rather work with a brand new digital recorder that’s fully equipped for outboard recording, the TASCAM Mixcast 4 is a good option. The LCD touchscreen lets you adjust the mix before recording your audio directly on-device.

Like the AR8, there are four mic inputs and a Bluetooth connection so you can trigger music to include in your recordings. You also get a DAW included with your purchase, so you don’t need to buy separate editing software.

Just be prepared to pay for this ‘prosumer’ device — it’s almost twice the cost of a used AR8.

Behringer XENYX

There are two Behringer XENYX models similar to the PreSonus StudioLive AR8: the 802S, and the 1202SFX. These analog mixers have equivalent interfaces (and comparable price points) if you’re more comfortable with analog designs. 

Behringer XENYX mixers are compatible with condenser mics thanks to 48 volts of phantom power. These preamps come with a bit more gain capacity than the AR8 with 60+db, so you can ensure correct gain staging even with quieter mics.

Just keep in mind Behringer XENYX mixers aren’t specifically designed for podcasting. So, you may be paying for features you don’t need, including solutions for live music recording.

ZOOM PodTrak P8

The ZOOM PodTrak P8 is a popular alternative to the PreSonus StudioLive AR8. Not only is it compatible with 512GB SD cards, but it also provides six mic inputs so you can host more guests at once.

Unlike the AR8, the PodTrak P8’s mic pre-amps add +70dB to any microphone. You can also host up to three remote call-ins and send a mix-minus return so callers don’t experience feedback.

Just remember these features will cost you — a PodTrak P8 is much more expensive than a used AR8. For a more affordable entry point in the ZOOM family, the ZOOM PodTrak P4 offers 4 inputs at a significantly lower price.

Mackie ProFX

Mackie ProFX analog mixers look similar to the PreSonus StudioLive AR8. Both of the models we recommend (the ProFX6v3 and the ProFX12v3) come with 24 built-in FX, +60dB preamps, and an aux plugin for hosting call-ins.

The Mackie ProFX6v3 comes with two mic inputs, while the ProFX12v3 comes with seven. Each purchase comes with The industry standard DAW, ProTools for all your editing and recording needs, and FX plugins — none of which you can get with the AR8.

You can learn more about the differences between these two mixers in our comprehensive guide. If you’re looking to replace the AR8 with a modern all-in-one podcast production console, the RØDECaster Pro 2 is worth a serious look.

Related Articles:

• Podcast Audio Interfaces: A Comprehensive Guide
• Ultimate Guide to Podcast Equipment in 2025
• Audio Interfaces: The Key to Great Podcast Sound
• Focusrite Vocaster: The Ultimate Podcasting Interfaces
• PreSonus Revelator: The Secret Weapon for Podcasters
• PreSonus Revelator io24: An Audio Interface for Recording & Streaming
• The Podcast Mixer: A Comprehensive Guide

The Bottom Line on the PreSonus StudioLive AR8

The PreSonus StudioLive AR8 is a valuable hybrid mixer for business podcasters, though limited availability means sourcing it secondhand from Sweetwater Gear Exchange, Reverb, or eBay.

Just keep in mind the AR8 is not a silver bullet for podcast production. You still need to build, streamline, and delegate tasks to release quality episodes and convert listeners into customers.

The Podcast Consultant would be happy to assist with customizable audio production services. We offer everything you need to start, maintain, or optimize your show so you can spend more time creating content and less time working on repetitive tasks.

If you’re curious to learn more, check out our detailed guide on podcast metrics to better understand how to measure your podcast’s success, or simply book a Discovery Call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the PreSonus StudioLive AR8 still worth buying even though it’s discontinued?

For business podcasters who want a plug-and-play hybrid mixer and audio interface, the AR8 is still a solid pick if you can find a good used unit. Its core recording features work exactly as they did when it was in production. Just go in knowing that replacement parts and power supplies can be hard to source, so inspect any used unit carefully before buying.

Where can I buy a used PreSonus StudioLive AR8?

Since PreSonus discontinued the AR8 in 2022, you won’t find it on the PreSonus site or Amazon. Your best bets are eBay, Reverb, Guitar Center, and Sweetwater Gear Exchange. You can also post in Reddit communities like r/audio if you want to widen your search.

What does a used PreSonus StudioLive AR8 typically come with?

A used unit will usually include the mixer itself and a power cable, but you may not receive a USB cable or the original software download codes. The bundled software like Studio One Artist and Capture isn’t included with secondhand purchases, so you’ll need to find alternative editing software on your own. The good news is the mixer’s hardware capabilities remain fully intact.

Can the PreSonus StudioLive AR8 record without a computer?

Yes, the AR8 has a built-in stereo SD card recorder that lets you capture audio directly on the device using up to a 32GB SD card. This makes it a convenient option for podcasters who want to record episodes without firing up a DAW. You can also use the SD card to play background music during recording sessions.

How many microphones can I connect to the PreSonus StudioLive AR8?

The AR8 supports four XLR microphone inputs, each with an XMAX preamp offering up to 43dB of gain. Keep in mind that phantom power applies to all four channels at once, so you can’t selectively enable it for individual mics. If your show regularly features more than four guests, you’d be better served by an alternative like the ZOOM PodTrak P8, which offers six mic inputs.

What are the biggest drawbacks of the PreSonus StudioLive AR8?

A significant concern is that it’s discontinued, making damaged components like the power supply difficult and sometimes impossible to replace. The mixer also has only a single headphone output, which can be frustrating for multi-guest shows. Its 48dB of gain is also lower than several competing mixers, which could be a problem if you’re using quieter microphones.

What are the best alternatives to the PreSonus StudioLive AR8?

Strong alternatives include the TASCAM Mixcast 4, which adds an LCD touchscreen and a bundled DAW, and the ZOOM PodTrak P8, which supports six mic inputs and remote call-ins. If budget is a priority, Behringer XENYX mixers offer comparable analog controls at a similar price point. The Mackie ProFX series is another option, coming with 24 built-in effects and ProTools included.

Does the PreSonus StudioLive AR8 work as an audio interface?

Yes, the AR8 doubles as a USB audio interface, so you can connect it directly to your computer and record into any DAW without needing a separate interface. It’s a USB 2.0 connection that supports 24-bit/96kHz audio, which is more than enough quality for podcast production. This dual functionality is one of the main reasons it became popular with business podcasters.

Is the Bluetooth feature on the AR8 useful for podcasting?

The Bluetooth connection on the super channel lets you stream music from your phone for intros, ad breaks, or sponsor spots, which is a handy feature for solo and co-hosted shows. For remote guests, a dedicated call-in solution like the ZOOM PodTrak P8 handles that job well. The Bluetooth feature is a convenient bonus that rounds out the AR8’s live-session toolkit.