Soundcraft GB4 16-Channel – 4-Bus Analog Live Sound Console

Product Overview

The Soundcraft GB4 RW5690SM is a 16-channel, 4-bus analog mixing console designed for front-of-house and monitor applications in smaller venues, houses of worship, and portable production environments. As the entry-level frame in the GB4 series, it provides the full GB4 feature set — GB30 microphone preamplifiers and equalizers, 8 auxiliary sends, direct outputs, dual-mode topology, and a 7x4 output matrix — in a compact footprint suited to productions with moderate input requirements. Available directly at Creation Networks.

Product Description

The Soundcraft GB4 RW5690SM provides 16 XLR/line-level mono input channels and 4 full-function stereo input channels (ST1–ST4), each with independent L/R stereo line and 3-pin XLR microphone inputs. The 16-channel configuration is appropriate for small-to-medium productions: club stages, small houses of worship, conference venues, and portable live sound setups where the full routing capability of the GB4 is needed without a large input count.

Every mono channel includes the GB30 microphone preamplifier, delivering the same ultra-low-noise performance found in the larger GB4 and GB8 frames. The GB30 4-band equalizer on each channel provides high, high-mid, low-mid, and low band shaping. Per-channel insert points allow outboard dynamics processors to be connected per input. The 4 subgroup outputs provide structured routing to monitors or recording interfaces, while 8 auxiliary sends handle in-ear feeds, effects returns, and broadcast splits.

The dual-mode topology allows the GB4 RW5690SM to operate as either a FOH or monitor console, with fader assignment switchable between group and aux outputs. Four mute groups support fast scene transitions. A record output limiter on the dedicated stereo outputs protects mix recordings from clipping. The 7x4 output matrix provides four independent outputs from group buses and the main L/R/C, useful for delay fills or secondary zone distribution even at smaller venue scales.

Direct outputs on all 16 mono channels enable simultaneous multitrack recording from every input. The rugged steel chassis with sloping rear connector panel and external PSU link option provides the same installation-grade build quality as the larger GB4 frames, making the RW5690SM a dependable long-term solution for permanent installed venues.

Key Features

• 16 Mono + 4 Stereo Input Channels — Entry-level GB4 frame with full GB30 preamp and EQ performance on all mono inputs.
• 4 Subgroup Outputs — Four group buses for structured routing to monitors, recorders, or zone amplifiers.
• 8 Auxiliary Sends — Eight aux sends for monitor mixes, in-ear feeds, effects, and broadcast outputs.
• GB30 Microphone Preamplifiers — Ultra-low-noise preamps on all mono inputs for professional gain structure.
• GB30 4-Band EQ — Precise tonal control on every mono channel input.
• Direct Outputs (All Mono Channels) — Pre-fader direct outputs for simultaneous 16-track recording.
• Dual-Mode Topology — Configurable for FOH or monitor console operation.
• 7x4 Output Matrix — Independent routing of group buses and main outputs to four matrix outputs.
• 4 Mute Groups — Simultaneous multi-channel muting for scene transitions.
• Record Output Limiter — Prevents clipping on the dedicated stereo record outputs.
• Insert Points — Per-channel inserts for outboard dynamics on all mono inputs.
• Integrated Meter Bridge — LED and VU metering at the console surface.
• External PSU Link Option — Supports backup power supply for permanent installations.

Typical Applications

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

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the GB4 RW5690SM a good choice for a small house of worship?
Yes. The 16-channel GB4 provides the full GB30 preamp and EQ quality, 8 aux sends for monitor mixes, and 4 group buses for structured routing — capabilities that exceed what most small venues need while keeping the console footprint and cost manageable.

How is the GB4 RW5690SM different from the GB2?
The GB4 provides 8 auxiliary sends (vs. 6 on the GB2), a 7x4 output matrix (vs. 6x2), 4 individual group buses (vs. 2 stereo pairs on the GB2), and a dual-mode topology for FOH/monitor switching. It is the better choice when more complex signal routing is required.

Does the GB4 RW5690SM support phantom power?
Yes. All XLR microphone inputs supply 48V phantom power for condenser microphones and active DI boxes.

Can this console record multitrack simultaneously with live mixing?
Yes. Direct outputs on all 16 mono channels provide pre-fader signals for simultaneous 16-track recording to a DAW or multitrack interface without affecting the live mix.

What is dual-mode topology and how does it help at a small venue?
Dual-mode topology allows the fader assignment to switch between controlling group bus levels or aux send levels. At a small venue, this lets one engineer run both FOH and monitor mixes from a single console without additional hardware.

Are insert points available on the 16-channel GB4?
Yes. Per-channel insert points on all mono inputs allow outboard compressors, gates, or equalizers to be used on individual channels.

What does the 7x4 output matrix provide on a 16-channel console?
Even on the 16-channel frame, the 7x4 matrix enables four independent output buses from group buses and the main L/R/C — useful for feeding delay speakers, a broadcast feed, a recording bus, or a secondary zone from the same console.