The AG08 is a new all-in-one, multi-purpose live streaming mixer and audio interface from Yamaha. As the flagship model of the company’s second generation AG series, it combines all the essential functionality of the AG range with practical new, intuitive functions for a powerful streaming solution. While packed with useful features, the AG08 is very flexible and simple to use.
Eight input channels are provided, all with assignable faders and mute switches for instant, hands-on control of sound levels. A range of high-quality effects is processed by the AG08’s onboard DSP, ensuring zero latency and no load on the user’s Windows or Mac computer. Those include a new voice changer effect on Channel 1, with an amp simulator on Channel 2 for enhanced guitar or bass sound. All of the unit’s input channels feature compression, EQ, reverb and delay, which can be set independently, allowing the optimal setting for each input to be dialed in.
Inheriting many features from radio broadcast consoles that are now highly appreciated in podcasting, the Yamaha AG08 offers a ducker function that can automatically attenuate channels 3/4, 5/6 and 7/8 to make sure the sound from channels 1 and 2 is always clearly heard. A maximizer is also provided on the output stage, which can add a level boost to the mix for extra polish and professionalism, as well as attenuating peaking signals to ensure listeners enjoy the best audio experience.
Four effect preset buttons allow users to save effects settings and seamlessly switch between customized presets for Channel 1, providing versatile, real-time control on the fly, while the dedicated AG08 Controller app for Windows, Macintosh and iPad OS provides precise parameter control and detailed audio management functions.
The AG08 also includes six customizable sound pads that allow users to easily add pre-recorded sound effects and other audio playback in real time. Using the AG08 Controller app, sound files can be dragged, dropped and assigned to the pad of choice, or samples can be recorded via the AG08’s inputs and trimmed to length within the app.
A USB 2.0 audio interface is provided in the updated USB-C connector, and the audio sources for channels 3/4, 5/6 and 7/8 can be selected from either the line inputs or USB. An additional switch on these channels allows sound to be included or excluded from the stereo, 1/4 inch TRS streaming outputs. The stereo streaming mix can also be output via USB to a Windows or Mac computer. For the output, stereo pairs of XLR and 1/4 inch TRS monitor outputs are provided, as well as two independent headphone / headset outputs.
The unit can be powered via USB-C for mobile applications, although it is supplied with a dedicated AC power adapter, while an optional FC-5 footswitch can be used for input mute, tap tempo, voice effect in/out and as an output dimmer. It also comes bundled with Steinberg’s Cubase AI and WaveLab Cast software for music/audio production and editing.
Available in black or white finish, the AG08 is an exceptional streaming solution for any live streaming application and simultaneous recording.
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