Soundcraft GB2 24-Channel – Stereo Analog Live Sound Console

Product Overview

The Soundcraft GB2 RW5748SM is a 24-channel stereo analog mixing console built for installed sound and AV environments that require professional audio quality without the full routing architecture of the GB4 or GB8. Featuring the GB30 microphone preamplifier and equalizer on every channel, 4 group buses configured as 2 stereo subgroups, 6 auxiliary sends, and an integral 6x2 output matrix, the RW5748SM provides a capable and practical console for mid-size venues, houses of worship, and commercial meeting spaces. Available from Creation Networks.

Product Description

The Soundcraft GB2 RW5748SM provides 24 XLR/line-level mono input channels and 2 stereo input channels (STE1–STE2), each with independent L/R stereo line and 3-pin XLR microphone inputs. The 24-channel configuration suits venues with moderate input requirements where a full-size console would be over-specified.

Every mono channel strip includes the high-performance GB30 microphone preamplifier — the same ultra-low-noise design found in the GB4 and GB8 — along with the GB30 4-band equalizer. The 4 group buses are set up as 2 stereo pairs with Soundcraft's unique stereo-width control, which adjusts the degree of stereo separation from the subgroups to the main mix bus. Six auxiliary sends per channel provide routing for monitor mixes, effects processors, and broadcast distribution.

The integral 6x2 output matrix routes aux sends and main outputs to 2 matrix outputs for secondary zone feeds or recording buses. Direct outputs on all 24 mono channels enable simultaneous multitrack recording from every input. The stereo input channels (STE1–STE2) operate in dual mode: mic inputs route to the local channel by default; selecting LINE overrides the mic routing and routes the line input through the channel strip.

The GB2 is specifically designed for installed sound and AV applications — churches, conference rooms, multipurpose halls, and commercial venues — where consistent analog performance and straightforward operation are the priority. The console shares the GB30 preamp and EQ quality of the GB4 and GB8, making it a practical entry point into the GB Series for venues that do not require a 4-bus or 8-bus routing structure.

Key Features

• 24 Mono + 2 Stereo Input Channels — Covers mid-size venue input requirements with XLR mic and line connections on all mono channels.
• 4 Group Buses (2 Stereo Pairs) — Subgroups configured as stereo pairs for structured mix routing to monitors and recorders.
• 6 Auxiliary Sends — Six aux sends per channel for monitor mixes, effects loops, and broadcast distribution.
• GB30 Microphone Preamplifiers — Ultra-low-noise GB30 preamps on all mono inputs for consistent professional gain structure.
• GB30 4-Band EQ — Four-band equalization on every mono channel input.
• Direct Outputs (All Mono Channels) — Pre-fader direct outputs for simultaneous 24-track recording.
• Integral 6x2 Output Matrix — Routes to 2 matrix outputs for secondary zones or recording.
• Stereo-Width Control — Adjustable stereo separation on subgroup outputs from full stereo to mono.
• Dual-Mode Stereo Inputs — STE channels function as local mic channels or mix bus stereo returns.
• Integrated Meter Bridge — LED and VU meters for real-time level monitoring.

Typical Applications

• House of worship
• Conference room
• Multi-purpose room
• Training room
• Commercial meeting space
• Auditorium

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the GB2 differ from the GB4 in a practical installation context?
The GB2 is intended for venues that do not require the GB4's 8 aux sends, full 4-bus architecture, or larger matrix. It provides 6 aux sends, 4 buses as stereo pairs, and a 6x2 matrix — a simpler routing structure that suits churches, conference rooms, and multipurpose halls with straightforward signal distribution needs.

Does the GB2 RW5748SM support phantom power?
Yes. All XLR microphone inputs supply phantom power for condenser microphones and active DI boxes.

What is the stereo-width control used for?
The stereo-width control adjusts how much stereo separation the subgroup outputs contribute to the main mix bus, ranging from full stereo to mono. This is useful for mono-compatibility checking and broadcast applications.

Can I record multitrack from the GB2?
Yes. Direct outputs on all 24 mono input channels provide pre-fader signals for simultaneous multitrack recording to a DAW interface.

What are the STE input channels on the GB2?
The STE (stereo) input channels have both mic and line inputs. The mic input routes to the local channel strip by default; selecting LINE overrides the mic routing, routing the line input through the full channel strip instead.

Is this console suitable for a conference room or boardroom?
Yes. The GB2's straightforward analog architecture, moderate channel count, and GB30 preamp quality make it appropriate for conference rooms and boardrooms requiring a capable analog mixing console for speech reinforcement or multi-source audio distribution.

What does the 6x2 output matrix provide?
The integral 6x2 matrix routes aux sends and main outputs to 2 matrix outputs, typically used for a secondary zone feed, an overflow speaker system, or a broadcast output.