Soundcraft GB4 40-Channel – 4-Bus Analog Live Sound Console

Product Overview

The Soundcraft GB4 RW5693SM is a 40-channel, 4-bus analog mixing console built for front-of-house and monitor applications in performance venues, houses of worship, and installed AV environments. Featuring the GB30 microphone preamplifier and equalizer on every mono channel, this large-frame GB4 delivers professional audio fidelity in a cost-effective analog format. With 8 auxiliary sends, 4 group buses, direct outputs on all mono channels, and a 7x4 output matrix, the RW5693SM provides the routing depth required for complex live sound and multitrack recording setups. Purchase the Soundcraft GB4 40-channel console directly from Creation Networks.

Product Description

The Soundcraft GB4 RW5693SM provides 40 XLR/line-level mono input channels and 4 full-function stereo input channels (ST1–ST4), each offering independent L/R stereo line and 3-pin XLR microphone inputs. This is the largest frame configuration in the GB4 series, suited to venues with extensive input lists such as large stages, live recording applications, and full-production worship environments.

Each mono channel features the GB30 microphone preamplifier — a low-noise, high-headroom design — paired with the GB30 4-band equalizer for high, high-mid, low-mid, and low frequency shaping. Insert points on channel inputs allow outboard dynamics or EQ to be integrated per channel. The four subgroup outputs provide structured routing to monitors, recording interfaces, or zone amplifiers, while 8 auxiliary sends handle effects returns, in-ear monitor feeds, and broadcast distribution.

The dual-mode topology, also found on the Soundcraft MH3 and MH4 consoles, allows this GB4 to function as either a front-of-house or dedicated monitor console, with fader assignment switchable between group and aux outputs. Four simultaneous mute groups allow fast scene transitions. A limiter on the dedicated stereo record outputs simplifies mix capture to a stereo recorder without additional outboard.

The rugged steel chassis includes a sloping rear connector panel for accessible cable management from the front of the console, and a link option for an external backup PSU. Direct outputs on all 40 mono channels enable simultaneous multitrack recording or broadcast feed alongside the live mix. The 7x4 output matrix routes group buses and main L/R/C outputs to four independent outputs for delays, fills, or secondary zones.

Key Features

• 40 Mono + 4 Stereo Input Channels — Full input coverage for large-format live productions with mic and line connections on all mono channels.
• 4 Subgroup Outputs — Four group buses enable structured signal routing to monitors, recorders, or amplifier zones.
• 8 Auxiliary Sends — Eight aux sends support monitor mixes, in-ear feeds, effects loops, and broadcast splits simultaneously.
• GB30 Microphone Preamplifiers — Ultra-low-noise preamps on all mono inputs maintain headroom and gain consistency across large input lists.
• GB30 4-Band EQ — Precise tonal shaping on every mono channel with high, high-mid, low-mid, and low frequency bands.
• Direct Outputs (All Mono Channels) — Pre-fader direct outputs feed multitrack recorders or broadcast interfaces from every input.
• Dual-Mode Topology — Switch between FOH and monitor console configurations with fader assignment to groups or aux outputs.
• 7x4 Output Matrix — Routes group buses and main L/R/C to four matrix outputs for delay fills, zone feeds, or broadcast.
• 4 Mute Groups — Simultaneous muting of multiple channels for scene transitions and live event control.
• Record Output Limiter — Dedicated limiter on stereo record outputs prevents clipping during mix-to-recorder capture.
• Insert Points — Per-channel insert points for outboard dynamics processors and equalizers.
• Integrated Meter Bridge — LED and VU meters display real-time levels across inputs and outputs at the console surface.
• External PSU Link Option — Integral power supply supports a backup PSU connection for mission-critical installations.

Typical Applications

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

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the GB4 dual-mode topology work?
The dual-mode topology allows the console to operate in either FOH (front-of-house) or monitor mixing mode. In monitor mode, faders can be reassigned to control aux or group output levels, allowing a single console to serve dual roles at smaller venues.

What is the output matrix on the GB4 used for?
The 7x4 matrix routes any combination of the four group buses and the main L/R/C outputs to four independent matrix outputs, typically used for delay speakers, balcony fills, broadcast feeds, or secondary zone distribution.

Does the GB4 RW5693SM support phantom power?
Yes. Phantom power is available on the XLR microphone inputs to support condenser microphones and active DI boxes.

Can I record multitrack directly from this console?
Yes. Direct outputs on all 40 mono channels provide pre-fader signals that can feed a multitrack interface or DAW simultaneously with the live mix.

What is the difference between the GB4 RW5693SM and RW5692SM?
Both are GB4 consoles. The RW5693SM is the 40-channel frame; the RW5692SM is the 32-channel frame. The choice depends on your input count requirements.

Are insert points available on the GB4?
Yes. Channel insert points are provided on all mono inputs, allowing outboard compressors, gates, or equalizers to be integrated per channel.

What is the purpose of the record output limiter?
The limiter on the dedicated stereo record outputs prevents the stereo recording from clipping during loud peaks, simplifying mix capture without requiring an outboard limiter in the signal path.