$11,000 · Sony MCI MXP-3036 Analog Recording Console - Fully Restored

The Sony MCI MXP-3036 is probably the most underrated large format analog recording console from the 80’s. This was the last console developed by MCI just before they were bought by Sony in 1982. Built in Florida, it was first put into production under Sony’s direction in 1985, and is considered one of the quietest consoles ever made. One of the unique aspects of this console is the modular preamp and eq sections. Sony produced one preamp and 5 different EQs. API, Avalon and John Hardy also produced preamps and EQs for the MXP-3036. It also had an option for VCA automation (though not motorized faders). Based on all the research I have done and people I talked to during the restoration, most of the MXP-3036 consoles ended up being used in broadcasting. I believe that the only reason that more recording studios didn’t purchase them was because 36 channels were considered too few in the mid-80’s. This board really sounds amazing. This particular console is the 19th one produced and premiered in the BCTV pavilion at Expo 86 in Vancouver, Canada. It was used in broadcast production until the early 2000’s when it was retired. It changed hands twice, but basically sat in storage until early 2023 when I purchased it. I spent 8 months meticulously restoring it, and it is now fully functional and thoroughly cleaned with only minor issues listed below. I documented the crazy journey on my Youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsHrzzMBcpoyMo1dQ2ntedEZ6j5wtPHnS This sale includes: Sony MCI MXP-3036 Console with: * 36 channels all with Sony preamps and Sony fixed-Q Wien EQs, which are incredibly musical. 35 of the channels are transformerless and 1 has transformers. * Rebuilt power supply with new Capacitors and long power supply cables. * Automation power supply and long power supply cables. * Automation keypad * 3 spare channel strips with transformers * 4 spare Sony preamps * 4 spare Sony fixed-Q Wien EQs. * Channel strip extender card for calibration * Several spare LED bulbs for the the Mute switches * Several spare incandescent bulbs for the other switches. * Custom pine extension board for the meter bridge (so that it is deep enough to hold monitors) * Extendable monitor arm for up to 30” computer monitor * 53 Tuchel connectors for your audio cabling (3 are currently wired to XLR, TRS and monitor connections for testing) * Original printed manuals and schematics * 11 Bantam/TT patch cables * Spare ribbon cables from the repairs. * Spare resistors for the VU meter LEDs from the repairs. * TT patch bay burnishing tool Some notes on the console modifications: * All automation mute lights have been upgraded to LED bulbs * LED replacement bulbs in all VU meters. * The wood was removed, stripped and lightly stained * One fader blank panel was modified to have an A/B switch and RJ11 jack (not connected to anything) * One master section blank has been modified with several switches and a gooseneck mic (not connected to anything) Specific issues: * Lower patch bay cover is missing * One fader blank panel is missing * PFL button yellow cover with label is missing * Talkback to speaker green button cover has a small crack. * Patchbay lower section has the cover from an MXP-3056. Studio Electronics has the correct cover in stock. * Channel 4 - Monitor section PAN won’t turn fully to the right. * Channel 17 - AUX4 spins continuously but still functions. * Channel 28 - EQ MID 1 the +-15 db knob turns continuously. (note that there are three spare channels strips and 4 spare EQs to deal with these issues) I have tested every function of the board as best I can and these are the only issues I have found remaining. Note, that I could not test every conceivable connection point but have tested all the ones most likely to be used in a modern studio. Not included: I do not have the original automation computer, dumb terminal or cable connections for these. The automation system is therefore untested. The original designer commented that the automation system never really worked very well. JL Cooper made a third party control system that was apparently better, but remember that this was 80s tech. Shipping: I am not providing shipping for the unit. Your best bet is to bring a big truck with a lift and pick it up. It is ground level access for load out. If you want to arrange a third party shipper, I will work with you and them to ensure everything is loaded at this end. More info: There is a forum: https://groups.io/g/sony-mxp-3k