Notepad-5

The Soundcraft Notepad-5 is a five-channel analog mixer with a built-in USB audio interface, sized to sit on a desk corner or drop into a gear bag. One combo XLR/line input runs a Soundcraft mic preamp with switchable Hi-Z, so a dynamic mic, a condenser, or a guitar can go straight in. A stereo 1/4" line input with trim and an RCA stereo pair cover keyboards, interfaces, and playback devices.

The mic channel has high and low EQ plus level control, which is enough to tame a boomy room or add clarity to a voice before it hits the recording. An output level with LED metering shows where the mix sits, and a rotary headphone control sets monitoring level on its own.

The USB interface carries audio both ways over a single cable to a Mac or PC, so recording, editing, and playback happen in whatever software you already use. USB return is summed with the RCA input on channel 4/5. Mac connection is plug-and-play; PC use calls for the Soundcraft driver.

A metal enclosure with XLR and 1/4" connectors stands up to daily handling and travel. The layout follows the same channel strip logic as larger consoles, so it reads quickly to anyone with desk experience and stays approachable for a first-time user. It fits solo podcast recording, single-mic voiceover, writing sessions, rehearsal playback, and small live setups where only a couple of sources need mixing.