Soundcraft GB2 32-Channel – Stereo Analog Live Sound Console

Product Overview

The Soundcraft GB2 RW5749SM is a 32-channel stereo analog mixing console designed for installed AV, live sound reinforcement, and multitrack recording environments that require a capable, cost-effective analog mixing solution. The GB2 features 4 group buses configured as 2 stereo subgroups, an integral 6x2 output matrix, and 6 auxiliary sends on every channel — providing structured routing in a compact analog format. Built around the GB30 microphone preamplifier and equalizer found in the GB4 and GB8, the RW5749SM delivers professional-grade audio quality. Available at Creation Networks for commercial AV integrators and venue operators.

Product Description

The Soundcraft GB2 RW5749SM provides 32 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 32-channel frame is the largest in the GB2 series, suited to mid-size venues and production environments requiring a comprehensive input count without the added routing complexity of a 4-bus or 8-bus console.

Each mono input channel includes the high-performance GB30 microphone preamplifier and GB30 equalizer — the same preamp and EQ platform used across the GB4 and GB8 series. The 4 group buses are configured as 2 stereo pairs, with an adjustable stereo-width control that allows the engineer to vary the stereo separation of the group output from full stereo through to mono — a useful feature for broadcast or recording applications where stereo image control is needed.

The integral 6x2 output matrix routes aux sends and main outputs to 2 matrix outputs for secondary zone distribution or recording feeds. Six auxiliary sends per channel provide parallel routing for monitor mixes, effects processors, or broadcast splits. Direct outputs on all mono channels allow 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, with line inputs acting as a stereo return to the mix bus. Selecting the LINE input overrides the mic routing — a flexible arrangement for keyboard returns, playback sources, or stereo effects units. The GB2 is designed for installed sound and AV applications where the full routing architecture of the GB4 is not required but GB30-grade audio quality is still expected.

Key Features

• 32 Mono + 2 Stereo Input Channels — Comprehensive input coverage for mid-size venues with XLR mic and line connections on all mono channels.
• 4 Group Buses (2 Stereo Pairs) — Subgroups configured as stereo pairs with adjustable stereo-width control for mix bus separation.
• 6 Auxiliary Sends — Six aux sends per channel support monitor mixes, effects loops, and broadcast distribution.
• GB30 Microphone Preamplifiers — High-performance, low-noise preamps on all mono inputs for professional-grade gain structure.
• GB30 4-Band EQ — Four-band equalization on every mono channel for precise frequency shaping.
• Direct Outputs (All Mono Channels) — Pre-fader direct outputs for simultaneous multitrack recording from all 32 inputs.
• Integral 6x2 Output Matrix — Routes aux sends and main outputs to 2 matrix outputs for secondary zone feeds or recording.
• Stereo-Width Control — Unique facility for adjusting stereo separation on subgroup outputs from full stereo to mono.
• Dual-Mode Stereo Inputs — STE inputs operate as local mic channels or stereo returns to the mix bus depending on input selection.
• Integrated Meter Bridge — LED and VU meters for real-time level monitoring across inputs and outputs.

Typical Applications

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

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the GB2 and GB4?
The GB2 is designed for installed sound and AV applications that do not require the full routing depth of the GB4. It provides 4 group buses as stereo pairs, 6 aux sends (vs. 8 on GB4), and a 6x2 matrix (vs. 7x4 on GB4). The GB30 preamp and EQ quality is identical across both series.

What does the stereo-width control on the GB2 do?
The stereo-width control adjusts the degree of stereo separation from the subgroup outputs to the main mix bus. This allows the engineer to vary the stereo image from full stereo through to mono, which is useful for broadcast outputs or mono-compatibility checking.

Does the GB2 support phantom power?
Yes. Phantom power is available on all XLR microphone inputs for condenser microphones and active DI boxes.

Can I record multitrack from the GB2 RW5749SM?
Yes. Direct outputs on all 32 mono input channels provide pre-fader signals that can feed a multitrack recording interface simultaneously with the live mix.

How do the stereo input channels (STE) work on the GB2?
Each STE channel has independent mic and line inputs. By default, the mic input routes to the local channel strip and the line input returns to the mix bus. Selecting LINE overrides the mic routing and routes the line input through the full channel strip.

What is the 6x2 output matrix used for?
The integral 6x2 matrix routes aux sends and main outputs to 2 matrix outputs, typically used for a secondary zone speaker feed, broadcast output, or recording bus.

Is the GB2 RW5749SM suitable for a house of worship?
Yes. The GB2 is specifically positioned by Soundcraft for installed sound and AV applications, making it a practical choice for houses of worship that need GB30-quality audio without the full complexity of the GB4 or GB8.