Summary of the Comparison
The Yamaha CL5 suits users prioritizing reliability, ease of use, and integration in install or corporate environments. The Digico SD12 benefits advanced users needing powerful routing, flexible workflows, and superior sound shaping for touring and complex productions. Each console excels in its respective user-focused environment.
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The Yamaha CL5
The Digico SD12
Main Differences Between the Mixers
- Yamaha CL5: 72 mono + 8 stereo input channels; Digico SD12: 72 input channels (up to 96 with software upgrade)
- CL5 uses Dante for audio networking; SD12 uses MADI, Optocore, and DMI slots
- SD12 features customizable workflow with touchscreens; CL5 uses dedicated knobs and central touch display
- CL5 known for rock-solid stability and integration in installed systems; SD12 excels in flexible routing and touring versatility
- CL5 offers 24 mix buses + 8 matrices; SD12 offers 36 busses + 12 matrices (flexible assignable busses)
- Yamaha ecosystem integrates seamlessly with R-series I/O racks; Digico works well in high-end touring with flexible I/O expansion
- CL5 has 3 fader sections (24 faders); SD12 has 2 screens with 12 faders each for dual-operator use
Specs and Feature Comparison
| Feature | Yamaha CL5 | DiGiCo SD12 |
|---|---|---|
| Input Channels | 72 Mono + 8 Stereo | 72 Flexi Channels |
| Output Busses | 24 Mix + 8 Matrix | 36 Busses (AUX/SUB/MATRICES) |
| Faders | 28 + Master | 24 + 2 Master |
| Touchscreens | 3 Touchscreens | 2 Multi-touch 15-inch Screens |
| Sampling Rate | 44.1 / 48 kHz | 96 kHz |
| Local I/O | 8 Inputs / 8 Outputs + 2 MY Slots | 12 Mic/Line Inputs, 12 Outputs |
| Networking | Dante | Optocore (with optional Dante/DMI cards) |
| Ideal Use Cases | Live Performances, Churches, Theaters, Broadcast | Live Shows, Touring, Stadiums, Broadcast, Studios |
| Approximate Price Range | $28,000 – $35,000 (incl. stage boxes) | $25,000 – $40,000 (depending on configuration) |
Best Situations for the Yamaha CL5
- Ideal for medium to large live sound venues
- Perfect for concerts, festivals, and touring events
- Great for houses of worship with complex audio needs
- Reliable choice for broadcast and recording setups
- Seamless integration with Dante audio networking
- Multiple user-defined layers for customized workflows
- Up to 72 mono + 8 stereo input channels
- Flexible output routing for monitors, mains, and zones
- Onboard premium wave effects and EQs for sound shaping
- Touchscreen interface for intuitive control on the fly
- Scene memory for quick changes during live productions
- Expandable I/O with Yamaha’s R Series stage boxes
- Suitable for rental and installation applications
- Pro-level audio quality with minimal latency
- Remote control capability via tablet or computer
Best Situations for the Digico SD12
- Ideal for live concert sound reinforcement
- Perfect for theater productions with complex scene requirements
- Excellent for touring acts due to its compact and road-ready design
- Great for broadcast environments needing flexible routing and multitrack recording
- Useful in houses of worship for managing multiple inputs and outputs
- Supports multi-band festivals with quick recall and fast setup changes
- Beneficial in corporate AV events for integrating presentations and live audio
- Works well in recording via multitrack USB or MADI outputs
- Handles simultaneous FOH and monitor mixing in small to mid-size venues
- Powerful for remote production with networked audio options
More Pro Audio Content
Written by Guitar Chalk on Mixers & Roundups
Written by Bobby Kittleberger on Mixers & Roundups
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