Yamaha’s DM3 Series compact digital mixing consoles

April 6 2023, Shizuoka, Japan: Yamaha has announced the DM3 series of digital mixers to its professional audio lineup. With both Dante-compatible and non-Dante models available, Yamaha's new, most compact digital mixing consoles are versatile enough for a wide range of applications.

The DM3 series offers up to 96 kHz sound quality and promises fast and simple operation [E.N. - don't they all?] in a chassis measuring 320 x 140 x 455 mm and weighing 6.5 kg. A combination unmatched by any other mixing console of this size, says Yamaha.

There are two DM3 mixers in the series - the DM3, which features Dante audio networking, and the DM3 Standard without Dante. Other than Dante provision, the features on both models are identical, featuring 16 mono, one stereo and two FX Return input mixing channels, plus six Mix Send, two FX Send, one stereo, and two matrix output mixing channels.

Offering 18 types of effects, the user interface is centred around a 9" screen with multi-touch control. Small features, like being able to choose from multiple languages for channel names (using the DM3 Editor or DM3 StageMix applications) displayed on the user’s choice of light or dark background, make the DM3 series adapt to lighting conditions and user nationalities.

With custom fader banks and MonitorMix support for personal monitor mixing, it targets a range of live sound applications, from simple presentations and conferences to live bands and multi-performer events. The DM3 is also recommended as a sub-mixer for a Dante-compatible main console.

The DM3 series is reportedly also a music production tool, thanks to an included 18in/18out USB audio interface and DAW Remote functionality. Multitrack recording via USB to Host is supported, while simple two track recording is also possible using a USB memory stick and a separate USB connector on the front panel. The Dante-capable DM3 adds further multitrack recording capability using Dante Virtual Soundcard. Meanwhile, the DAW Remote function means a range of DAWs can be controlled from the console. Recordings can then be edited with the bundled Cubase AI software or a DAW of choice.

With stereo and matrices, the audio routing allows the creation of separate mixes for on-site and streaming sound.
Another key market for the DM3 series is in fixed installations. Both consoles support OSC and MIDI (via USB) general purpose external control protocols and User Account, User Defined Key and Custom Fader Bank can be used to configure settings for users. The consoles are compatible with Yamaha’s ProVisionaire software suite, which allows the creation of bespoke control panels, tailored to the needs of remote control and installation monitoring. The optional RK-DM3 can be used to mount either unit in 13U of a standard 19” equipment rack.

The DM3 series is complemented by further software applications. These include DM3 Editor, a standalone Windows or Mac application for both online operation and offline setup and editing, and DM3 StageMix, an iPad app that enables remote control of the DM3 Series via a simple interface, allowing an engineer to control mix parameters from a performer's position on the stage. Additionally, the MonitorMix application for iOS and Android devices puts control of each performer’s monitor mix in their hand.

Both models are equipped with a wide range of scene presets, based on different usage scenarios. They also feature QuickPro Presets™ parameters, for a variety of microphones and output equipment, reportedly created in cooperation with well-respected engineers and major manufacturers. These can be used as they are or as a starting point for further adjustment.

“The DM3 series sets a new standard for compact console performance, offering superb sound quality, fast setup, straightforward operation and professional level features for live sound, streaming, live or home recording, music production and fixed installations - a combination unmatched in any other mixing console of this size,” says Thomas Hemery, Yamaha General Manager of Global Marketing and Sales, Professional Solutions Division.

“In an ever-changing world which constantly presents new challenges as well as opportunities, DM3 series mixing consoles give users the power and flexibility to do more with a compact digital console.”

Prices will be around €2,390 (including VAT) or $1999.99 (plus tax) for the DM-3D version, and €1,890 or $1699.99 for the DM-3S. There is no estimated release date yet.