Does the ART SPLITMix4 require a power supply?

No, the SPLITMix4 is a passive device. It operates entirely without batteries or an external AC adapter by using resistive circuits.

Can I use it with mono cables?

Yes, while it uses TRS jacks for stereo signals, you can use standard TS mono cables. However, the signal will remain mono across the path.

How many channels does it have?

The device features four independent channels, each with its own level control and dedicated inputs and outputs.

Will this device boost a quiet signal?

No, because it is passive, it can only attenuate (lower) the signal. It cannot provide gain or boost the volume beyond the original input level.

Can I use it to split one output to four sets of headphones?

While it can split the signal, it does not have a headphone amplifier. The output may be too quiet or have impedance issues if driving multiple pairs of headphones directly.

What is the maximum attenuation for each channel?

Each channel provides up to 90dB of attenuation, allowing for a wide range of volume control and the ability to fully mute a channel.

Is the SPLITMix4 suitable for balanced signals?

It uses TRS jacks which can carry balanced mono signals or unbalanced stereo signals. It is primarily designed for stereo/mono unbalanced line-level routing.

Can I use it as a 4-channel mixer?

Yes, you can connect up to four sources to the input jacks and use the 'Output' jack to send the summed signal to your destination.

Can it be used as a 1-to-4 splitter?

Yes, by connecting a source to the 'Input' jack, the signal is distributed to the four individual channel jacks.

Does it affect the sound quality?

As a passive unit, it is designed for transparency. However, passive mixing naturally results in a small amount of signal level loss known as insertion loss.

Can I mix and split at the same time?

Yes, the internal wiring allows for creative signal mapping where you can utilize different channels for different routing tasks simultaneously.

What is the typical price for the SPLITMix4?

The typical price for this unit is approximately GBP 64, making it an affordable utility for most studio setups.

Gear article

ART SPLITMix4

The ART SPLITMix4 is a compact, four-channel passive device designed for routing and combining stereo or mono audio signals. Functioning as both a splitter and a mixer without the need for an external power source, it offers versatile signal path mapping for studio and live sound environments.

See live prices

Overview and Functionality

The ART SPLITMix4 is a utility device that facilitates audio signal routing in two primary modes: splitting and mixing. In splitter mode, a single input signal is distributed to up to four outputs, which is ideal for sending a single source to multiple monitoring systems or recording interfaces. In mixer mode, four independent input signals are summed into a single stereo output.

The device utilizes TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) 1/4-inch jacks, allowing it to handle both stereo and mono signals. Because the circuit is entirely passive, it requires no batteries or external power supplies to operate, making it a reliable tool for field use or crowded studio setups.

Design and Control

The hardware features a rugged, compact design suitable for desktop use or mounting on a pedalboard. Each of the four channels is equipped with an independent rotary gain attenuator. These controls provide up to 90dB of attenuation, allowing users to balance levels between different sources or outputs precisely.

One of the unique aspects of the SPLITMix4 is its hybrid capability. Users can combine the mixing and splitting functions simultaneously for complex signal path mapping. For example, some channels can be used to mix multiple instruments down to one track, while others can be used to split a monitor feed.

Audio Character

As a passive device, the SPLITMix4 is designed to have a transparent sonic character. It does not contain preamplifiers or active circuitry that would introduce electronic noise or 'colour' the sound. However, users should be aware that passive mixers naturally incur a slight insertion loss in signal level, which is typical of all non-powered summing circuits. The 90dB attenuation range ensures that signals can be fully silenced when the pots are turned down.

Intended Users

The SPLITMix4 is particularly well-suited for: * Home Studio Engineers: Who need to route a single audio interface output to multiple sets of monitors. * Synthesiser Enthusiasts: Who wish to sum multiple mono or stereo synths into a single input on their mixer or interface. * Live Performers: Who require a simple, power-free way to blend multiple stage sources or split signals for personal monitoring. * Sub-mixing: It acts as an efficient way to expand the input count of existing larger consoles.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to active mixers like the Mackie Mix8 or the Yamaha MG12, the SPLITMix4 lacks EQ, preamps, and phantom power. However, it offers a level of portability and simplicity those consoles cannot match due to its passive nature.

In contrast to high-end digital mixers such as the PreSonus StudioLive SE16 or the Allen & Heath QU-6D, the SPLITMix4 is a basic utility tool rather than a comprehensive production hub. While it cannot compete with the Behringer X AIR XR18 in terms of channel count or DSP, it provides a physical, zero-latency interface that is significantly more affordable and easier to set up for simple routing tasks.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

Does the ART SPLITMix4 require a power supply?: No, the SPLITMix4 is a passive device. It operates entirely without batteries or an external AC adapter by using resistive circuits.
Can I use it with mono cables?: Yes, while it uses TRS jacks for stereo signals, you can use standard TS mono cables. However, the signal will remain mono across the path.
How many channels does it have?: The device features four independent channels, each with its own level control and dedicated inputs and outputs.
Will this device boost a quiet signal?: No, because it is passive, it can only attenuate (lower) the signal. It cannot provide gain or boost the volume beyond the original input level.
Can I use it to split one output to four sets of headphones?: While it can split the signal, it does not have a headphone amplifier. The output may be too quiet or have impedance issues if driving multiple pairs of headphones directly.
What is the maximum attenuation for each channel?: Each channel provides up to 90dB of attenuation, allowing for a wide range of volume control and the ability to fully mute a channel.
Is the SPLITMix4 suitable for balanced signals?: It uses TRS jacks which can carry balanced mono signals or unbalanced stereo signals. It is primarily designed for stereo/mono unbalanced line-level routing.
Can I use it as a 4-channel mixer?: Yes, you can connect up to four sources to the input jacks and use the 'Output' jack to send the summed signal to your destination.
Can it be used as a 1-to-4 splitter?: Yes, by connecting a source to the 'Input' jack, the signal is distributed to the four individual channel jacks.
Does it affect the sound quality?: As a passive unit, it is designed for transparency. However, passive mixing naturally results in a small amount of signal level loss known as insertion loss.
Can I mix and split at the same time?: Yes, the internal wiring allows for creative signal mapping where you can utilize different channels for different routing tasks simultaneously.
What is the typical price for the SPLITMix4?: The typical price for this unit is approximately GBP 64, making it an affordable utility for most studio setups.