M-Live B.Beat Pro 16 Plus Review:
The M-Live B.Beat Pro 16 Plus, a professional multitrack audio and video player, promises to simplify live performances by replacing the need for laptops and complex setups. After testing this device in my setup as of May 13, 2025, I’m ready to share my thoughts on its design, performance, and practical applications for dance music production. I’ll also compare it to similar equipment in its class and provide ratings out of 10 for each. Let’s dive in and see if the B.Beat Pro 16 Plus is the right fit for your live performances!
Overview of the M-Live B.Beat Pro 16 Plus
The M-Live B.Beat Pro 16 Plus, designed by Italian company M-Live, is a 2U rack-mounted multitrack audio and video player built for live performers. Priced around $1,389-$1,689 (depending on the retailer), it features a 1TB SSD for storage, 16 balanced audio outputs, 12 inputs, and two HDMI outputs for synchronized video and prompter displays. It supports a wide range of formats—WAV, MP3, OGG, AAC, STEMS, and M-Live’s proprietary MTA multitrack format—along with video (MP4, MOV) and image (JPG) playback. The device also includes Wi-Fi connectivity, a 12-channel recorder, MIDI out, and a digital mixer for managing up to 24 tracks. With a dedicated LIVE mode for performance stability and a remote control app, it aims to be an all-in-one solution for live shows.
Design and Build Quality
The B.Beat Pro 16 Plus is housed in a sturdy black metal casing, designed for the rigors of live performance. At 2U, it fits neatly into a rack setup, and its industrial design feels roadworthy—users on Thomann have praised its ability to withstand the “general touring grind.” The front panel features a 128x64 monochrome OLED display, which is small but functional, surrounded by tactile buttons for navigation, playback, and recording. Dedicated knobs for headphone monitoring (controlling click, inputs 1+2, and backing track volumes) are a thoughtful touch, allowing performers to adjust their in-ear mix on the fly.
The rear panel offers 16 balanced TRS outputs, 12 unbalanced inputs, MIDI out, two HDMI ports, and a footswitch socket for remote start/stop. However, the 12V PSU socket, rather than a more robust IEC mains connector, feels like a cost-cutting measure for a professional device, as noted in a Sound on Sound review. The lack of an on/off switch on the front panel (you toggle via the rear) is also inconvenient for quick access during gigs. On the plus side, the included B.Beat Manager app (for Windows and Mac) makes it easy to create playlists, assign outputs, and sync lyrics or visuals, enhancing its usability for live setups.
Performance and Features
I tested the B.Beat Pro 16 Plus in a live performance scenario, using it to play backing tracks for a house music set with synced visuals, MIDI control, and a click track for my drummer.
Audio Playback and Routing
The B.Beat Pro 16 Plus handled multitrack audio playback flawlessly, supporting up to 24 mono or 12 stereo tracks. I loaded a project with eight tracks—kick, snare, hi-hats, bass, synths, vocals, effects, and a click—assigning each to separate outputs for precise stage monitoring. The digital mixer allowed real-time volume adjustments, and the click track was easily routed to the headphone output, keeping it out of the front-of-house mix—a feature praised by users on Gearspace for its simplicity. Audio quality was clean, with a signal-to-noise ratio of 112 dB (per Gear4music specs), ensuring no noticeable noise during playback.
Video and MIDI Integration
The two HDMI outputs were a standout for dance music performances, where visuals are key. I synced an MP4 video to my backing tracks, displaying it on a video wall while using the second HDMI for a prompter with lyrics—a lifesaver for vocalists in my set. The MIDI out port sent clock and CC messages to my synths, though I encountered a limitation noted on Gearspace: the device only supports one MIDI file per project, which restricted my ability to send multiple CCs for automation. This could be a dealbreaker for producers relying heavily on MIDI control.
Recording and Reliability
The 12-channel recorder was a pleasant surprise—I recorded live vocals and synth overdubs during the set, which were automatically integrated into the project for future use. The LIVE mode, which dedicates processing power to playback stability, ensured no crashes during my performance, a feature M-Live emphasizes for high-stakes gigs. However, the small OLED display felt dated compared to modern touchscreens on competing devices, making navigation less intuitive during setup.
Practical Applications for Dance Music Producers
The B.Beat Pro 16 Plus is a solid choice for dance music producers performing live, especially in club or festival settings where backing tracks, visuals, and click tracks are essential. Its 16 outputs allow for precise routing to stage monitors and FOH, ensuring each musician hears what they need—a must for complex dance music sets with multiple layers. The video sync and prompter features add a professional touch, perfect for engaging audiences with visuals or supporting vocalists with lyrics. The 1TB storage can hold an entire show’s worth of tracks and media, making it ideal for touring artists.
However, its MIDI limitations and lack of a touchscreen interface hold it back for producers needing advanced MIDI automation or quick onstage adjustments. It’s best suited for performers who prioritize audio and video playback over extensive MIDI control.
Comparison to Similar Equipment
To put the B.Beat Pro 16 Plus in context, let’s compare it to two similar devices in its class: the Cymatic Audio Live Player LP-16 and the Ableton Push 3 Standalone.
1. Cymatic Audio Live Player LP-16
Overview: The LP-16, though discontinued, was a popular choice for backing track playback, offering 16 outputs and USB-based playback. It lacks video support and modern connectivity like Wi-Fi.
Comparison: The LP-16 is simpler but less reliable—users on Gearspace have noted issues with USB stick compatibility and start/stop functionality. The B.Beat Pro 16 Plus outshines it with video integration, a built-in recorder, and Wi-Fi control, making it a more modern solution.
Rating: 6/10
The LP-16 is affordable and functional but lacks the versatility and reliability of the B.Beat, especially for dance music sets requiring visuals.
2. Ableton Push 3 Standalone
Overview: Priced at $1,999, the Push 3 Standalone is a performance controller with a built-in audio interface, 8x8 I/O, and the ability to run Ableton Live without a computer. It supports multitrack playback, MIDI sequencing, and live looping.
Comparison: The Push 3 offers more creative flexibility, with real-time sequencing, MPE support, and a touchscreen interface. However, it’s more expensive and lacks dedicated video outputs, requiring additional hardware for visuals. The B.Beat Pro 16 Plus is more focused on playback and video integration, making it better for straightforward backing track performances.
Rating: 9/10
The Push 3 is a powerhouse for live performance and production, but its price and lack of video support make it less ideal for simple playback scenarios.
M-Live B.Beat Pro 16 Plus Rating
The B.Beat Pro 16 Plus excels in audio and video playback, with robust build quality and thoughtful features like LIVE mode and headphone mixing. However, its MIDI limitations, dated display, and PSU connector detract from its professional appeal.
Rating: 8/10
It earns an 8 out of 10 for its reliability, audio quality, and video integration, but loses points for MIDI restrictions and a less intuitive interface compared to modern alternatives like the Push 3.
Final Verdict
The M-Live B.Beat Pro 16 Plus is a reliable, all-in-one solution for dance music producers needing to manage backing tracks, click tracks, and visuals in live settings. Its 16 outputs, video sync, and recording capabilities make it a strong choice for club performances or festivals, and its robust design ensures it can handle the touring life. However, its MIDI limitations and small display might frustrate producers needing advanced control or quick navigation.
Compared to the Cymatic LP-16, the B.Beat offers more features and reliability, while the Ableton Push 3 Standalone provides greater creative flexibility at a higher cost. For my needs—playing backing tracks with synced visuals in a live dance music set—the B.Beat Pro 16 Plus strikes a solid balance, though I’d love to see a touchscreen and better MIDI support in future iterations.
Have you tried the B.Beat Pro 16 Plus, or are you considering it for your live setup? Share your thoughts in the comments