The Soundcraft 5056219 Ui16 is an innovative, compact digital mixer that redefines system setup by placing control entirely in the hands of a user's smartphone, tablet, or computer via a Wi-Fi network. This rack-mountable unit provides 16 input channels and 8 mix buses in a remarkably small form factor, making it an ideal solution for installed sound in cafes, classrooms, houses of worship, and rehearsal spaces where space is at a premium and physical access to the mixer is limited. The mixer connects to sources via its rear-panel analog inputs, and all adjustments—from gain staging and EQ to effects and routing—are performed through an intuitive graphical interface on a connected device.

Despite its compact size, the Ui16 does not compromise on processing capability. Each channel is equipped with a 3-band semi-parametric EQ, a compressor, and a noise gate, offering a level of control typically found on much larger consoles. It includes a suite of studio-quality reverb and delay effects to enhance vocals and instruments. The flexible routing engine allows the creation of up to 8 separate mixes, which can be used for monitors, recording feeds, or zone control, all adjustable independently by multiple users when configured for multi-operator mode. Stereo outputs deliver the main mix, while additional outputs provide feeds for subwoofers or other zones.

The Ui16 excels in simplicity and remote management. Once connected to a local Wi-Fi network, any number of authorized devices can access the mixer, allowing musicians to adjust their own monitor mixes or technicians to make adjustments from anywhere in the venue. Its built-in USB port allows for stereo recording directly to a flash drive. By eliminating the traditional hardware control surface, the Soundcraft Ui16 offers a powerful, full-featured digital mixing solution that is both cost-effective and incredibly adaptable to modern, wirelessly connected environments.