Behringer DIGITAL SNAKE S32 Stage box

The Behringer S32 is a professional digital stagebox designed for live applications, featuring 32 MIDAS-designed, remotely controllable microphone preamps and 16 balanced analog XLR returns. The system connects via a single CAT5e cable (up to 100 meters), enabled by the AES50 SuperMAC technology developed by Klark Teknik. This ensures stable, low-latency digital audio transmission, while advanced manufacturing processes make this high-end solution accessible at an attractive price point.

The Midas name has been synonymous with uncompromising sound quality for decades. Legendary consoles such as the XL4 and Heritage 3000 set industry standards and have been used in the world’s most prestigious productions. MIDAS microphone preamps are widely recognized for their exceptional sonic performance, trusted by top audio engineers worldwide. The preamps used in the S32 continue this legacy, delivering outstanding audio quality in both live and studio environments.

As part of the X32 ecosystem, the S32 offers exceptional flexibility. Two units can be daisy-chained via the built-in AES50 ports, providing up to 64 mic/line inputs and 32 balanced outputs, while also supporting the Behringer POWERPLAY P16 personal monitoring system, capable of handling up to 16 independent monitor mixes. The system can be further expanded with S16 or SD16 units, utilizing the full 48-channel capacity of the AES50 protocol over a single CAT5e cable. Additionally, the S32 includes dual optical ADAT ports and dual AES/EBU stereo outputs for connecting external digital devices such as PA system controllers. A built-in USB port allows for firmware updates and MIDI I/O functionality.

Although primarily designed for use with the X32 digital console, the S32 is compatible with any mixer featuring AES50 connectivity. For example, when paired with an Behringer X32 CORE, it forms a compact, fully remote-controllable mixing system within just 4U of rack space. The X32 CORE can handle independent monitor mixes while simultaneously routing all I/O to a front-of-house console—whether it’s an X32 or another system supporting MADI, Dante, ADAT, or AES50. The modular design also allows the 32×32 USB interface to be replaced with optional expansion cards, further enhancing system flexibility. The entire setup can even be controlled remotely via software applications, with the S32 and control unit positioned up to 100 meters apart using a single CAT5e cable.

Developed through the collaboration of Behringer, Klark Teknik, Midas, and Turbosound, the ULTRANET technology represents a breakthrough in digital audio networking. It enables the transmission of 16 channels of 24-bit digital audio and control data over a single CAT5 cable, eliminating issues such as noise, interference, and crosstalk typically associated with analog systems. ULTRANET provides not only superior reliability but also faster setup times and simplified operation, particularly when integrating personal monitoring systems.