What is Outboard Gear?

Outboard gear refers to external hardware devices used in audio recording, mixing, and production to process sound outside of a computer or mixing console. These devices are separate pieces of equipment connected through audio cables to a studio’s signal chain.

Common types of outboard gear include compressors, equalizers, reverbs, delays, microphone preamps, and channel strips. Engineers route audio signals from a mixing console or audio interface into these devices to apply specific types of processing before sending the signal back into the recording system.

Outboard gear has long been a central part of professional recording studios because many hardware units are valued for their distinctive sound character and high-quality analog circuitry. Even in modern digital production environments, outboard processors are still used to add unique tonal qualities and hands-on control during recording and mixing.