Yamaha has introduced the AG08, an all-in-one, multi-purpose live streaming mixer and audio interface.
As the flagship model of the company’s second generation AG series, it combines all the functionality of the AG range with practical new functions. By integrating more flexible I/O and USB routing options, additional DSP effects, expanded functionality and improved internal circuitry, the AG08 supports a variety of streaming applications, including speech, instrument, playback, gaming and ASMR, as well as offline audio content creation.
Eight input channels are provided, all with assignable faders and mute switches for instant, hands-on control of sound levels. A range of effects is processed by the AG08’s onboard DSP, ensuring zero latency and no load on the user’s Windows or Macintosh computer. They include a new voice changer effect on Channel 1, with an amp simulator on Channel 2 for enhanced guitar or bass sound. All of the unit’s input channels feature compression, EQ, reverb and delay, which can be set independently, allowing the optimal setting for each input to be dialled in.
A ducker function can automatically attenuate channels 3/4, 5/6 and 7/8 to make sure the sound from channels 1 and 2 is always clearly heard. A maximiser is also provided on the output stage, which can add a level boost to the mix for extra polish and professionalism, as well as attenuating peaking signals to ensure listeners enjoy the best audio experience.
Four effect preset buttons allow users to save effects settings and switch between customised presets for Channel 1, providing versatile, real-time control on the fly, while the dedicated AG08 Controller app for Windows, Macintosh and iPad OS provides precise parameter control and detailed audio management functions.
The AG08 also includes six customisable sound pads that allow users to add pre-recorded sound effects and other audio playback in real time. Using the AG08 Controller app, sound files can be dragged, dropped and assigned to the pad of choice, or samples can be recorded via the AG08’s inputs and trimmed to length within the app.
Channels 1-2 have mono inputs, each with an XLR/TRS combo input for microphone, instrument or other sound source, plus a gain control, switchable +48v phantom power and pad switch. Channel 2 also has a Hi-Z switch for guitar. The rest of the inputs are arranged as stereo pairs - channels 3/4 feature a pair of 1/4 inch TRS line level inputs, channels 5/6 two RCA and 1/8 inch TRS (for gaming services) and channels 7/8 a four pole TRRS socket (for Android devices).
A USB 2.0 socket is provided and the audio sources for channels 3/4, 5/6 and 7/8 can be selected from either the line inputs or USB. An additional switch on these channels allows sound to be included or excluded from the stereo, 1/4 inch TRS streaming outputs. The stereo streaming mix can also be output via USB to a Windows or Macintosh computer.
Stereo pairs of XLR and 1/4 inch TRS monitor outputs are provided, as well as two independent headphone/headset outputs.