Model 450 — Fostex

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Information is drawn from readable sources for this model.

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Description

The Fostex Model 450 is an analog mixing console in the 16-track category. It is documented as a 16-track analog mixer produced by Fostex, with user discussions noting features such as 8 inputs available on line jacks or XLR for microphones, phantom power, and a range of channel routing options. The device is described in user reviews as capable of adding warmth and character to signals, and is used in hip‑hop setups to saturate external gear’s signals for a more old‑school feel. Notable features referenced include per-channel inserts, RCA direct outs on each channel, and 2 headphone outputs with a shared level control. Reviews mention a 100 mm fader design and a four-bus architecture for routing signals to monitor output and L/R outputs, with bus selection via push buttons. The overall impression from user feedback is that the desk offers practical EQ and a straightforward workflow, suitable for home studios and projects seeking a warm, musical analog character. Typical use cases described involve integrating with external samplers and instrument sources to color signals rather than cleanly resolving them, especially in beat-making contexts. Sound is characterized as pleasant with a useful EQ and a capability to push signals toward a more saturated, vintage palette. The device is positioned as a 16‑track analog mixer for creative signal processing in compact or home-studio environments.

Price

No longer sold newUsed · €464.56

Video resources

Ultimate 80s Home Studio Fostex 450 and R8

Ultimate 80s Home Studio Fostex 450 and R8

Twin Creek Audio

4 years ago

Fostex 450 Preamps Acoustic Guitar and Bass

Fostex 450 Preamps Acoustic Guitar and Bass

Twin Creek Audio

3 years ago

Fostex 450 Recording Mixer

Fostex 450 Recording Mixer

Twin Creek Audio

5 years ago

Fostex Model 450 Summing and Saturation

Fostex Model 450 Summing and Saturation

Twin Creek Audio

3 years ago

FOSTEX MODEL 450  (For Sale: eBay)

FOSTEX MODEL 450 (For Sale: eBay)

eShopperS Int'l

8 years ago

Fostex Model 450 Hybrid Setup

Fostex Model 450 Hybrid Setup

Twin Creek Audio

3 years ago

See more videos on YouTube

Specifications & connections

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Year
1980

Connections

ConnectionDirectionConnector
CH 1 - INPUT XLR (Mic/Line)INXLR
CH 1 - INPUT Jack mono (Mic/Line)INNot specified
CH 1 - TAPE ININRCA
CH 1 - ACCESS RCV (Insert Return)INRCA
CH 1 - ACCESS SEND (Insert Send)OUTRCA
CH 1 - DIRECT OUTOUTRCA
CH 2 - INPUT XLR (Mic/Line)INXLR
CH 2 - INPUT Jack mono (Mic/Line)INNot specified
CH 2 - TAPE ININRCA
CH 2 - ACCESS RCV (Insert Return)INRCA
CH 2 - ACCESS SEND (Insert Send)OUTRCA
CH 2 - DIRECT OUTOUTRCA
CH 3 - INPUT XLR (Mic/Line)INXLR
CH 3 - INPUT Jack mono (Mic/Line)INNot specified
CH 3 - TAPE ININRCA
CH 3 - ACCESS RCV (Insert Return)INRCA
CH 3 - ACCESS SEND (Insert Send)OUTRCA
CH 3 - DIRECT OUTOUTRCA
CH 4 - INPUT XLR (Mic/Line)INXLR
CH 4 - INPUT Jack mono (Mic/Line)INNot specified
CH 4 - TAPE ININRCA
CH 4 - ACCESS RCV (Insert Return)INRCA
CH 4 - ACCESS SEND (Insert Send)OUTRCA
CH 4 - DIRECT OUTOUTRCA
CH 5 - INPUT XLR (Mic/Line)INXLR
CH 5 - INPUT Jack mono (Mic/Line)INNot specified
CH 5 - TAPE ININRCA
CH 5 - ACCESS RCV (Insert Return)INRCA
CH 5 - ACCESS SEND (Insert Send)OUTRCA
CH 5 - DIRECT OUTOUTRCA
CH 6 - INPUT XLR (Mic/Line)INXLR
CH 6 - INPUT Jack mono (Mic/Line)INNot specified
CH 6 - TAPE ININRCA
CH 6 - ACCESS RCV (Insert Return)INRCA
CH 6 - ACCESS SEND (Insert Send)OUTRCA
CH 6 - DIRECT OUTOUTRCA
CH 7 - INPUT XLR (Mic/Line)INXLR
CH 7 - INPUT Jack mono (Mic/Line)INNot specified
CH 7 - TAPE ININRCA
CH 7 - ACCESS RCV (Insert Return)INRCA
CH 7 - ACCESS SEND (Insert Send)OUTRCA
CH 7 - DIRECT OUTOUTRCA
CH 8 - INPUT XLR (Mic/Line)INXLR
CH 8 - INPUT Jack mono (Mic/Line)INNot specified
CH 8 - TAPE ININRCA
CH 8 - ACCESS RCV (Insert Return)INRCA
CH 8 - ACCESS SEND (Insert Send)OUTRCA
CH 8 - DIRECT OUTOUTRCA
BUSS 1 - ININRCA
BUSS 1 - OUTOUTRCA
BUSS 2 - ININRCA
BUSS 2 - OUTOUTRCA
BUSS 3 - ININRCA
BUSS 3 - OUTOUTRCA
BUSS 4 - ININRCA
BUSS 4 - OUTOUTRCA
AUX 1 - IN (Mono)INRCA
AUX 1 - OUT (Mono)OUTRCA
AUX 2 - IN LINRCA
AUX 2 - OUT LOUTRCA
AUX 2 - IN RINRCA
AUX 2 - OUT ROUTRCA
MONITOR OUT LOUTRCA
MONITOR OUT ROUTRCA
STEREO MASTER OUT LOUTRCA
STEREO MASTER OUT ROUTRCA
Tape Master ININRCA
Tape Master ININRCA

User reviews

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AI summary of a source review

en.audiofanzine.com

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The reviewer notes that the console can be good for a home studio and references buying used at around 250 in value, suggesting it is suitable for entry-level use and home studios.

FAQ

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What is the Fostex Model 450?

The Fostex 450 is described as an analog mixer with 16 channels, based on user discussions and manual mentions found in sources.

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How is the Fostex 450 connected for use?

Sources mention RCA and XLR connections and phantom power on certain inputs, indicating typical analog mixer I/O setups.

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What types of outputs/buses does the Fostex 450 offer?

The discussions reference buses with RCA outputs and direct/monitor paths, suggesting multiple routing options for effects or recordings.

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What is highlighted about workflow and usability?

User reviews praise the mixer as straightforward to use with a simple configuration, suitable for home studios and beat-making workflows.

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What are commonly noted limitations of the Fostex 450?

Reviews mention lack of a low-cut filter and limited bus/insert capability, reflecting some constraints for more complex mixes.

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