While I do hear the much talked about USB noise and the pro broadcaster review is accurate saying that it’s right around -63 dB, it’s certainly not too bad. It may be due to a lack of suitable RF shielding, or some AD / DA issue since I assume there needs to be a conversion and this is a cheap mixer to expect much.
My biggest issue is it feels underpowered, and recordings seem to agree: Unless I’m really blasting channels with high gain, I’ll get overly quiet recordings with it, like there’s heavy compression or something. Tbf, I was using mics that are known to be on the quiet side, and they probably were too good for the mixer, though I didn’t have any luck with Sennheiser handheld dynamics in the $80-120 range either, which are about on par with the mixer’s quality (As opposed to say, plugging a TLM-102 straight into a a Mackie mixer, lol). That’s on USB output, it seemed better with an XLR -> 3.5mm cable from the main output run into the standard line in jack on the PC, which is not the highest quality connection method but plenty good for this mixer. Still, USB i/o is pretty standard now and it does work but other boards in the price range just put out a higher volume level than this IME, meaning the necessary amount of gain and subsequently some of the noise is lower, which is probably why some other USB mixers don’t get that complaint, given proper gain staging. Gain staging is hard when you’re often creating a lot of background / white noise due to necessary trim, but I don’t expect amazing pre amps on this level mixer. I ended up with an A&H ZED14 w this as a backup for the time I spent learning the mixing ropes before outgrowing either, which is inevitable if you’re progressing and expanding your needs accordingly. It is definitely good enough to keep as a spare or travel mixer, and could do things like podcasts on the go pretty easily.
It’s debatable whether this is useful if you’re trying to get into maximum integration between your DAW and mixer in terms of your workflow goal - it’s certainly best suited to simple needs like podcasting, amateur vocal recording or I suppose even instrument mixing and recording if you have the appropriate mics.
Some Pros:
- Easy mix minus and usb input setup
- Onboard Master Graphic EQ
- FX are obviously simple, but decent
- Good number of i/o options including FX loop capabilities, and a number of jack types for different sources
- Definitely good amount controls, laid out well
- Monitor Fader, which is missing in some far more expensive mixers but quite likable
- Using a balanced XLR - 3.5, USB sound can be avoided, while Mogami has a $60 option, a $20 monoprice or Hosa should do fine.
Some cons:
- Definite USB noise, it is around -63 dB
- Even with gain cranked and faders maxed, I was hitting only -20 or -10 peak dB with certain mics.
- I don’t think the pre amp circuitry is the best, likely part of the loudness issue
- Don’t love the faders being miniature, but necessary for compact size
- No aux busses, PAFL, anything in higher end boards (but, duh)
Overall, a good starter board. The USB noise will only matter on quiet recordings, although most are fairly quiet. Still, I’ve seen nothing at this price point I like as much. It’s as simple as, if you have a few $100ish or less mics this will do fine.. if you buy expensive mics etc., you’ll probably want a slightly better board, but youcan certainly use this while you try to grow whatever you’re doing, or just your wallet. Even though I had to get a different board, I’m still happy with the purchase and for sure would send this out on the road etc. without issue. Might not make the most perfect audio ever, but especially recording not in a quiet studio, it’s fine.
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Mackie Mix Series
Merchant Video
From the manufacturer
The Life Of Your Sound
All-new Vita preamps for stunning clarity, ReadyFX effects engine and USB for easy recording right to your computer.
Overview
Mackie ProFXv2 mixers provide a comprehensive live sound solution with a wide range of models, each delivering unmatched sonic performance. Featuring all-new Mackie Vita preamps designed specifically for live sound and the powerful new ReadyFX effects engine, ProFX delivers a no-compromise toolkit including GEQ, USB recording/playback* and flexible I/O for any professional application.
*Available on ProFX8v2, ProFX12v2, ProFX16v2, ProFX22v2 and ProFX30v2.
Features
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Vita Mic PreampsDesigned specifically for live sound, Vita preamps ;are virtually noiseless, featuring a discrete Class-A front end design, dual feedback stabilization and bias current optimization for unmatched low-noise performance. |
ReadyFX Effects EngineThe all-new ReadyFX effects engine employs floating-point DSP, designed specifically for intensive processing of high-quality audio. This results in effects that are rich and always ready to elevate performance and inspire audiences. |
No-Compromise Live Mixing ToolkitEach ProFXv2 model is a well-stocked audio toolkit. From critical tools like multi-band graphic equalization to smart features like channel inserts and footswitchable FX mute, ProFXv2 always has the tools you need. |
USB Recording / PlaybackBuilt-in USB interface for easily recording your mix or for music playback during the show. We’ve included easy-to-use Tracktion recording software so you can get started right away. |
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| Mic Inputs | 2 | 4 | 6 | 10 | 16 | 24 |
| Line Inputs | 4 | 8 | 12 | 16 | 22 | 30 |
| Aux Sends | 2 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 4 |
| Subgroups | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Compressors | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| ReadyFX Effects | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 2x2 USB I/O | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
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Reviewed in the United States on January 6, 2018
This mixer can run straight off of a 12-volt SLA battery. You will not find this information in the instruction manual but it does work quite well. The mixer is okay but I'm not getting any response from the main EQ to the main outs.The effects leave something to be desired. The 3 preset delay speeds are too fast are pretty much useless and there is no way to custom set the speed or choose a number of repeats. Still it is worth the small price tag. Yay go portable!
Reviewed in the United States on January 6, 2018
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