The Soundcraft Si range (Si Expression, Si Performer, Si Impact) carved out a loyal following with one big idea: a digital console that feels like an analog one. Lots of physical knobs and faders, minimal menu-diving, and Soundcraft’s signature workflow. Here’s an honest round-up of what owners actually report.
Where these takes come from
A synthesis of recurring opinions across English-speaking communities (r/livesound, Gearspace, ProSoundWeb, Sound on Sound forums) and long-term Si owners.
What owners love
The hands-on, analog-style workflow
The standout: a control-per-function layout (with FaderGlow colour-coding) that engineers coming from analog love. Fast, tactile, and light on menu-diving — you reach for a knob, not a screen.
Onboard Lexicon, dbx and BSS
Respected built-in effects (Lexicon reverbs) and processing (dbx, BSS) give it a polished sound out of the box.
Soundcraft preamps and reliability
Solid preamps and proven dependability make it a trusted workhorse for live and install.
Strong value (especially used)
On the used market, the Si range offers a lot of tactile console for the money.
What owners flag
1. An aging platform
The Si range is older (48kHz) and has been overtaken by newer designs; it lacks some modern conveniences.
2. Limited recording and app control
Multitrack recording and wireless app control are limited or absent versus rivals like the X32 — a real gap for some workflows.
3. Smaller screen, less flexible routing
The tactile philosophy means a smaller screen and less deep customization than menu-driven rivals.
4. Being superseded
Soundcraft’s newer Ui and Vi lines have moved on; the Si is a mature product near the end of its arc.
Who it’s really for
The Si is ideal for the engineer who wants a tactile, analog-style digital desk with great onboard FX and minimal menus. If you want modern recording, app control and value, the X32 or A&H SQ are stronger. For wireless, see the Soundcraft Ui24R.
My honest take
The Si range is loved for its workflow — a digital desk that thinks like analog, with quality Lexicon FX. It’s aging (48kHz, limited recording/app), so buy it for the tactile experience rather than modern features, ideally used at a good price. See our complete console guide.
Specs and the Si range
The Si family spans the Si Expression (1/2/3), Si Performer (which adds onboard DMX lighting control) and Si Impact (which adds 32-in/32-out USB recording and iPad control), all built around Soundcraft’s 40-input, 48kHz architecture with FaderGlow colour-coded faders and onboard Lexicon, dbx and BSS processing. The design philosophy is control-per-function: most parameters live on a dedicated knob or button rather than buried in menus.
That tactile layout is exactly why analog engineers gravitate to it — owners describe reaching for a physical control by muscle memory and mixing without staring at a screen. The Si Impact is the pick if you want the same feel plus modern USB multitrack and app control, closing the gap with rivals like the X32.
On price, the Si range is now largely a used-market proposition, and that is where owners say it shines: a lot of hands-on, well-built console with quality Lexicon reverbs for modest money. Buy it for the workflow and FX rather than cutting-edge networking, and confirm firmware and fader health for the exact model before committing.
FAQ
What makes the Soundcraft Si different?
Its analog-style, control-per-function workflow (with FaderGlow) and onboard Lexicon/dbx/BSS processing — tactile, with minimal menu-diving.
Does it record multitrack?
Recording and app control are limited or absent versus rivals; it’s not the desk for built-in multitrack.
Is the Si still worth buying?
For the tactile workflow and FX, yes — especially used. For modern features and value, newer rivals win.
Si or X32?
Si for the hands-on analog feel and Lexicon FX; X32 for modern features, recording, app control and value.
Where to buy : Soundcraft Si Impact
| Retailer | Why | |
|---|---|---|
| Thomann | Reference price, 3-year warranty, pro stock in Europe | Check price at Thomann → |
| Amazon | Fast shipping, used and renewed units | See on Amazon → |
Affiliate links: the price is the same for you, the commission funds our tests. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Read also: SPL DMC mastering console: complete pro audio guide · Calrec Apollo, Summa, Brio, Argo broadcast consoles: pro guide
Sources — manufacturer documentation consulted for this article: Soundcraft.
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