The Presonus Central Station PLUS combines the Presonus Central Station with the CSR-1 Remote Control to create a professional studio monitoring solution. The Central Station PLUS lets you playback from multiple monitor sources, so you be sure your final mix is the way you want it to be.
is the ultimate studio-monitoring interface for the modern digital studio. The Central Station features three sets of stereo analog inputs to switch between input sources such as: DAW, mixer, CD/DAT/Tape player, or keyboards/samplers. Two stereo analog inputs feature TRS balanced and the third stereo input features RCA inputs with trim control for level matching of input signals. In addition, the Central Station will accommodate two digital inputs via S/PDIF or TOSLINK providing D/A conversion up to 24Bit/192kHz.
This allows you to monitor DAW and CD/DAT outputs through the same professional quality converter for the most accurate A/B comparison and highest quality monitoring environment. The digital to analog converter offers the highest possible audio quality with over 117dB dynamic range and ultra high quality analog circuitry. The Central Station features three sets of monitor outputs, each with their own set of passive trim controls. The monitoring section also provides MUTE, DIM and MONO switches. In addition, the Central Station includes a set of CUE outputs that can feed headphone amplifiers and a separate stereo MAIN line level output.
The Presonus CSR-1 Remote connects to the rear of the Central Station via db15 connector to control VOLUME, TALKBACK, MUTE, input source switching and speaker output switching functions. Keep the Central Station in your rack with your gear and use the CSR-1 for ultimate control and flexibility.
The main features of the Central Station PLUS includes:
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I chose the central station mainly because I needed a rack mount monitor controller and wanted to upgrade from the old mixer that 'did the job' for years. It was simple to setup and the remote is a great feature.
The fact that it is rack mountable but also has a desktop remote (with built in talkback mic) makes it ideal for most studio setups. I use it as my main monitor control for my studio and find it ideal for switching between sets of monitors & controlling the headphone cue mixes for the live room. The sound quality is great with a very low noise floor, the VU meter is easy to calibrate to match your analogue or digital gear.
Definitely would recommend for both budget home studios and professional studios.
If anyone is looking to upgrade from the Mackie Big Knob to a better sounding box, this is an excellent mid-priced choice. Whilst it doesn't have the digital I/O of the Mackie, when it's linked to a Focurite Clarett+ 8pre with balance cables the sound is a vast improvement over the Mackie.
Having used Mackie products for decades, I'm a convert!