A 32-input digital stage box can reduce long analog cable runs by moving mic and line connections to the stage and sending audio to a compatible mixer over a network connection. The right choice depends on your console ecosystem, output needs, monitoring setup, and whether you want a straightforward stage box or extra routing options.
The four options below include AES50 models for Midas and Behringer mixer systems and an AVB model designed for PreSonus StudioLive Series III. One listing is a bundle, and two listings are marked unavailable in the supplied product data, so check listing status and compatibility before you plan a system around them.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Inputs / Outputs | Network connection | Standout feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Midas DL32 | 32 / 16 | Dual AES50 | Midas PRO mic preamps and ULTRANET |
| DL32 32-Input Stage Box | 32 / 16 | AES50 | Listed for M32 / X32 mixers |
| Behringer S32 Bundle | 32 / 16 | Dual AES50 | Includes a six-outlet surge suppressor strip |
| PreSonus NSB32.16 | 32 / 16 | AVB | XMAX preamps and gain compensation |
Our Picks: Best Digital Stage Boxes With 32 Inputs reviews
1. Midas DL32: A Feature-Rich AES50 Stage Box
The Midas DL32 is a 32-input, 16-output digital stage box built around two AES50 SuperMAC ports. It has 32 Midas PRO microphone preamps with switchable 48-volt phantom power, making it a strong match for live setups with many microphones or other phantom-powered equipment.
Its 16 electronically balanced outputs provide connections for stage monitors and other line-level feeds. ULTRANET connectivity supports personal monitoring applications, while the listing also specifies digital audio and control connections for compatible Turbosound speaker systems. Dual AES50 ports allow additional DL16 stage boxes to be cascaded without a separate merger or router, which can help as a rig grows.
This is the most feature-rich choice here for a Midas-oriented system, but its connectivity is not universal. Check that your mixer and other equipment support the connections you plan to use. The added ULTRANET and ADAT-related features are useful only if they fit your actual setup.
Pros:
- 32 Midas PRO mic preamps with switchable phantom power
- 16 balanced line outputs for monitor and other stage feeds
- Dual AES50 ports support cascading compatible stage boxes
- ULTRANET connectivity for personal monitoring applications
Cons:
- Best suited to systems that can use its AES50 and related connections
- Its extra connectivity may be unnecessary for simpler rigs
Verdict: Choose the Midas DL32 if you need 32 inputs, substantial output capacity, and AES50-based expansion in a Midas-compatible rig.
2. DL32 32-Input Stage Box: A Budget-Conscious Compatibility Check
This listing describes a 32-input, 16-output AES50 stage box for M32 and X32 mixers. Its stated appeal is a compact design and a setup intended to be straightforward, but the supplied product information does not provide details about its preamps, output circuitry, or additional digital connections.
There is an important distinction to check before buying: the listing uses the DL32 name, but identifies the brand as LXJZXQXA rather than Midas. It should not be assumed to be the Midas DL32 described above. Confirm the exact model, seller support, included components, and compatibility with your specific console before relying on it for a show.
The supplied product data also marks this listing unavailable. If it becomes available, it may interest shoppers comparing AES50 options, but the limited technical detail makes it harder to assess against the fully specified Midas and Behringer models.
Pros:
- Listed with 32 inputs and 16 outputs
- Described as an AES50 option for M32 and X32 mixers
- Compact design is presented as a feature
Cons:
- The listing’s brand identity differs from the Midas DL32 name
- Technical specifications are limited, and the supplied data marks it unavailable
Verdict: Consider this listing only after verifying the exact hardware and support; the Midas-branded DL32 is the clearer choice when you want a more fully documented product.
3. Behringer S32 Bundle: AES50 I/O with a Power Strip
This listing pairs a Behringer S32 digital stage box with an SS-6B six-outlet surge suppressor strip. The S32 provides 32 remotely controllable, Midas-designed mic preamps and 16 analog, servo-balanced XLR outputs. That combination suits a live rig that needs to collect many stage inputs and send multiple feeds back out.
Two AES50 ports support cascading compatible S32 units without a merger or router, and the listing specifies Klark Teknik SuperMAC technology for low-latency digital audio. Dual ADAT outputs, MIDI In/Out, and a USB port for system updates add flexibility beyond basic stage I/O. The stage box has an all-steel 3U rack-mount chassis and a switching power supply; the included power strip has a metal construction and a 15-foot cord.
Compared with the Midas DL32, the S32 bundle adds a power strip and lists MIDI and ADAT connections, while the DL32 calls out ULTRANET. Before ordering, confirm the bundle contents and that your console supports AES50; the included power strip does not change the stage box’s audio compatibility.
Pros:
- 32 remote-controllable, Midas-designed preamps and 16 XLR outputs
- Dual AES50 ports support cascading compatible units
- ADAT and MIDI connections add routing options
- Bundle includes a six-outlet power strip
Cons:
- Requires a compatible AES50-based system
- Buyers seeking only a stage box may not need the bundled power strip
Verdict: The S32 bundle is a practical pick for an AES50 rig that can use its extra connections and would benefit from the included power strip.
4. PreSonus NSB32.16: AVB Networking and Gain Compensation
The PreSonus NSB32.16 is a 32-input, 16-output networked stage box built for AVB systems. Its 32 locking combo mic/line inputs use remote-controllable XMAX preamps, and its 16 locking XLR outputs provide line-level connections for equipment on stage.
A key feature is gain compensation, which supports independent control from multiple mixers. That can be useful in setups where separate mixers need access to the same input sources. The unit has two AVB ports with locking XLR Ethernet jacks, a mute-all button, and a 3U rack enclosure with multi-position rack ears. Setup and remote gain control are described for StudioLive Series III mixers and PreSonus UC Surface software.
This is the AVB choice in the group, not a substitute for an AES50 stage box. Its strengths matter most if your existing system is built around compatible PreSonus equipment. The supplied listing is marked unavailable, so check its status and confirm your mixer and software compatibility before choosing it.
Pros:
- 32 locking combo inputs and 16 locking XLR outputs
- Remote-controllable XMAX preamps with gain compensation
- Two AVB ports and a mute-all button
- Rack ears support more than one installation position
Cons:
- Designed around AVB rather than the AES50 connections used by the other options
- The supplied product data marks the listing unavailable
Verdict: Choose the NSB32.16 if you use a compatible PreSonus AVB system and want gain compensation for multiple mixers; otherwise, an AES50 model may fit more naturally.
How to Choose a Digital Stage Box With 32 Inputs
Match the network connection to your mixer
Start with the console you already own or plan to buy. The Midas DL32 and Behringer S32 use AES50 connections, while the PreSonus NSB32.16 is an AVB stage box. These network formats are not interchangeable just because the boxes have similar input and output counts. Check the console’s supported protocol and connection requirements before choosing.
Count both inputs and outputs
Thirty-two inputs can handle a large collection of microphones and other sources, but the output count matters too. All four products in this guide are listed with 16 outputs. Think about how many monitor mixes, speaker feeds, and other line-level sends your setup needs, then confirm the console can route those signals as you expect.
Check preamp and phantom-power needs
If your microphones or other equipment need phantom power, verify how the stage box handles it. The Midas DL32 lists switchable 48-volt phantom power, while the Behringer S32 lists remote-controllable preamps. The PreSonus model specifies remote-controllable XMAX preamps. Compare those details with your console workflow and the equipment you plan to connect.
Look at expansion and extra connections
Dual AES50 ports on the Midas DL32 and Behringer S32 support cascading additional compatible boxes, according to their product descriptions. The DL32 also highlights ULTRANET, while the S32 lists ADAT and MIDI connections. The PreSonus model’s gain compensation may be valuable when multiple compatible mixers need independent control. Choose features that solve a real need in your rig rather than paying attention to connection counts alone.
Consider installation and transport
Rack mounting, connector types, and cable routing can affect setup time and reliability. The S32 is described as having a 3U all-steel rack-mount chassis, and the PreSonus NSB32.16 has a 3U rack enclosure with multi-position rack ears. Check the physical layout, rack space, and connection access against your stage or equipment rack before committing.
Verify the exact product and listing details
Product names can be similar even when branding and specifications differ. The listing labeled DL32 in this guide identifies a different brand than Midas and provides fewer technical details, so verify its identity and support carefully. For the S32 bundle, confirm what accessories are included. Availability can also change, so check the listing before making plans around an item.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a 32-input digital stage box do?
It provides connections for up to 32 audio sources near the stage and sends those signals digitally to a compatible mixer. A stage box can reduce the need to run a separate long analog cable from every source to the mixing position.
Are AES50 and AVB stage boxes interchangeable?
No. AES50 and AVB are different connection formats. Choose a stage box that matches the network protocol supported by your mixer and confirm compatibility with the manufacturer’s system information.
Can I use the Midas DL32 with any digital mixer?
Do not assume so. The DL32 uses AES50, so you should confirm that your mixer supports the required AES50 connection and features. Compatibility can depend on the specific console and setup.
What is the benefit of 16 outputs on a 32-input stage box?
The outputs can carry line-level feeds back to stage equipment, such as monitor systems or other connected devices. The number you need depends on how your console routes mixes and how many separate feeds your setup requires.
What is gain compensation on the PreSonus NSB32.16?
The product information describes gain compensation as a way to provide independent control from multiple mixers. This can help in a compatible system where more than one mixer needs access to shared inputs.
Is the listed DL32 from LXJZXQXA the same as the Midas DL32?
The supplied product data identifies the LXJZXQXA listing under a different brand from Midas. Do not treat them as the same product based on the DL32 name alone; verify the model, specifications, seller support, and compatibility before purchase.
Which 32-input stage box should I choose?
For a Midas-compatible AES50 setup, the Midas DL32 is the most fully specified option here. The Behringer S32 bundle is worth considering if its AES50, ADAT, MIDI, and included power strip suit your system. Choose the PreSonus NSB32.16 for a compatible AVB setup, and carefully verify the separate LXJZXQXA listing before considering it.
Final Recommendation
Choose based on your mixer’s connection format first, then compare preamps, outputs, and expansion features. The Midas DL32 stands out for its stated Midas PRO preamps, ULTRANET, and dual AES50 ports. The Behringer S32 bundle offers a broad set of connections plus a power strip, while the PreSonus NSB32.16 is the AVB-focused choice for compatible systems. Confirm compatibility and listing availability before you buy.