Avid S3L. The open networked architecture and modular nature of this platform presents a high degree of flexibility.
Simply connect a laptop (with Pro Tools or other DAW installed) to the mixer’s Ethernet AVB network (using a single Cat-5e cable) for up to 64 tracks of audio recording/playback.
VENUE Link makes it straightforward to control live mixing and recording/playback setups as one, and users can also perform virtual sound checks globally or on a per-channel basis with the input switch feature, which enables performers to sound check live alongside pre-recorded tracks.
Further, with complete EUCON support, the S3L can be used as a stand-alone control surface to mix sessions recorded in Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase, and other popular DAWs.
And, it can function as a 4 x 4 I/O device for recording in the studio as well as remote locations like hotel rooms or tour buses. (More here)
PreSonus StudioLive AI-series. In a straightforward approach, a pair of bi-directional FireWire s800 (IEEE 1394b) ports connect StudioLive AI consoles to a Mac or PC for recording.
The largest model, the StudioLive 32.4.2AI, has an integrated, bi-directional recording interface that can send up to 48 audio streams to a computer and return up to 34 playback streams (48 x 34/40 x 26/32 x 18 streams available) at 24-bit/44.1/48/88.2 (and 96 kHz support is coming in fall 2014, according the company).
The FireWire s800 and Ethernet ports come on a preinstalled card that is user-replaceable with optional Dante, AVB, or Thunderbolt cards.
Designed specifically for StudioLive mixers, Capture 2.1 software adds proprietary Active Integration networking, offering fast setup and recording directly from the mixer, with auto configuration.
It also provides convenient, automated virtual sound check. (More here)
Roland V-Mixer Series. Enables three types of recording and playback solutions: onboard stereo recording via USB port, integrated multi-channel recording and playback via the company’s R-1000 48-track recorder/player, and integrated multi-channel recording using the proprietary REAC platform.
The R-1000 can be used with any REAC digital snake as well as with any digital console with MADI output capabilities by using the Roland S-MADI REAC MADI bridge.
The REAC driver kit is intended for use with all V-Mixer consoles is also compatible with Roland S-4000S, S-2416, S-1608, S-0808, and S-MADI digital snake systems.
In addition, up to 40 channels from a V-Mixing console or digital snake can be routed directly into most ASIO-based DAWs via Cat-5e/6 connected directly to the gigabit network port on a PC. (More here)
QSC TouchMix. Yes, they’re a bit on the smaller scale for the purpose of this discussion, but we wanted to point out that these new miniscule mixers are capable of direct recording to an external USB hard drive – no external computer is required. All inputs plus a stereo mix are created in 32-bit WAV format. Tracks can also be played back on the mixer or imported into most DAW software for over-dubs and post production. (More here)
Mackie DL Series. Also very compact in form factor, these iPad mixers provide the ability to record stereo tracks directly to the iPad. It probably doesn’t get any easier than that. (More here)