US manufacturer of professional audio recorders; the 833 model features 32-bit float recording, 12 mic inputs, and Dante networking for on-set production.
Technical Details
Modern Sound Devices recorders like the 833 operate with 32-bit float recording at sampling rates up to 192 kHz and feature up to 12 microphone inputs with individual limiters. The devices utilize redundant recording onto CF cards and SSD drives, offer timecode synchronization via 10 MHz reference signals, and integrate the Dante network protocol for digital audio transmission. Typical operating durations reach 8-12 hours with lithium-ion batteries at ambient temperatures from -20°C to +60°C. The devices weigh between 1.2 kg (664) and 3.8 kg (833) and comply with IP54 protection classes against dust and splash water.
History & Development
Matt Anderson founded Sound Devices in 1998 in Reedsburg, Wisconsin, after previously developing audio equipment at Shure and Lectrosonics. The first product, MP-1 (Mobile Pre), appeared in 1999 as an ultra-low-noise microphone preamplifier. In 2002, the 744T followed as the first hard disk recorder with integrated timecode, revolutionizing location recording. The MixPre series standard, introduced in 2018 with 32-bit float technology, completely eliminated clipping. In 2020, the company set new standards for IP-based audio networking on set with the 8-series.
Practical Application in Film
On "1917" (2019), sound mixer Stuart Wilson used the Sound Devices 664 for the complex Steadicam sequences, as its low weight enabled mobile recording. Netflix productions routinely employ 833 recorders to meet the technical delivery requirements of 48 kHz/24-bit. Typical location workflows connect up to 8 wireless systems to the main recorder, while separate ISO tracks record each microphone individually. The devices automatically synchronize with digital cameras via BNC timecode outputs and generate XML files for Pro Tools import.
Comparison & Alternatives
Sound Devices primarily competes with Zaxcom (NovaMix) and Aaton Cantar systems, which offer similar multitrack functionality. Zaxcom devices integrate wireless receivers directly into the chassis, whereas Sound Devices prefers external receivers. For budget productions, Zoom F8n recorders serve as an alternative, but they do not achieve the thermal stability and microphone preamplifier quality of the professional systems. Documentary teams often choose compact MixPre models for run-and-gun situations, while feature film productions rely on 8-series devices with advanced routing capabilities.