SCR-5085980US-01 vs SCR-5085985US-01 — Compare
Soundcraft 5085980US Notepad 5 US vs Soundcraft 5085985US Notepad 12 FX US
The Notepad-5 is a stripped-down, ultra-compact mixer ideal for minimal setups like podcasting and small streaming rigs, while the Notepad-12FX offers twice the input channels, built-in Lexicon effects, and 3-band EQ suited to live performance and more complex sessions. Choose the Notepad-5 if you need portability and simplicity; choose the Notepad-12FX if you want room to grow and professional effects.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Specs side by side
| Soundcraft 5085980US Notepad 5 US | Soundcraft 5085985US Notepad 12 FX US | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $192.51 | $270.00 |
| Brand | Soundcraft | Soundcraft |
| Mixer Type | Analog | Analog |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Soundcraft 5085980US Notepad 5 US
- ✓ Extremely compact desktop footprint (8.9" × 10.2")
- ✓ 5 channels sufficient for basic podcast, stream, or single-track setups
- ✓ Clean, transparent audio with low-noise floor
- ✓ Straightforward 2-band EQ and intuitive fader layout
Why choose Soundcraft 5085985US Notepad 12 FX US
- ✓ 12 input channels with 4 combo XLR-1/4" mic inputs for multitrack live and studio work
- ✓ Integrated Lexicon FX (delay, reverb, chorus) eliminates need for external effects hardware
- ✓ 3-band EQ per channel for more detailed tone shaping than Notepad-5
- ✓ 4×4 USB audio interface vs. 2×2, enabling more flexible multitrack recording
Frequently asked questions
How many microphones can each mixer handle simultaneously?
The Notepad-5 has 1 combo XLR-1/4" mic input (plus 2 line and 2 RCA inputs). The Notepad-12FX has 4 combo XLR-1/4" mic inputs (plus 6 line and 2 RCA inputs), allowing you to record or mix up to four mics at once versus one.
What's the main advantage of the built-in effects on the Notepad-12FX?
The Notepad-12FX includes Lexicon reverb, delay, and chorus effects routed via aux send, letting you add spatial depth to vocals or instruments without purchasing a separate effects unit. The Notepad-5 has no onboard effects.
Which mixer is better for live performance?
The Notepad-12FX is better suited to live performance because it handles 12 channels, includes effects for monitor mixes, and offers independent headphone control. The Notepad-5's 5 channels and lack of effects make it more of a home-studio or streaming solution.
How do the USB interfaces differ?
The Notepad-5 offers USB 2×2 (stereo in/out), while the Notepad-12FX provides 4×4 audio I/O. The 4×4 lets you record multiple channels directly into your DAW; the 2×2 is limited to stereo pairs.