Mixing consoles, once essential, have faced competition in our home studios from audio interfaces now capable of providing multitrack connections with professional connectors while delegating mixing to DAWs. But consoles are responding by miniaturizing, adding speakers, or digital connections that also transform them into audio interfaces, all while retaining their analog fundamentals of processing, EQ, multi-effects, analog circuitry…
The Mackie 802-VLZ4 is a compact 8-channel analog mixing console designed for setups demanding an ultra-clean signal and maximum versatility. With its very low noise Onyx preamps, professional-grade components, and rugged metal chassis, it’s especially suited for live applications, home recording, or broadcast.
Mackie focuses here on ease of use and durability. The all-metal chassis, with vertically sealed potentiometers, ensures flawless operation even under intensive conditions. The internal circuits are designed to deliver precise, clear, and faithful sound without coloration.
- 3 Onyx mic preamps with +48V phantom power
- 2 stereo line inputs (6.35 mm jack)
- 1 stereo auxiliary input for external player or effects return
- 1 Control Room output, 1 headphone output, 1 main stereo output (balanced TRS jacks)
Each channel features gain control, 3-band EQ, auxiliary send, pan, and level fader. The Aux send allows adding external effects or sending to stage monitors. Users can also route signals to headphones or Control Room outputs as needed for flexible monitoring.
- 3-band EQ on mic/line inputs
- 1 post-fader Aux send
- Stereo return (ALT 3/4) usable as a secondary bus
- Independent headphone output with dedicated volume control
This compact analog mixing console perfectly meets the needs of musicians, podcasters, and bands in lightweight setups. It combines maximum versatility, extensive connectivity, and modern features like the built-in Alesis multi-effect.
With 8 channels, including 4 XLR mic inputs with phantom power and 2 stereo inputs, this console lets you connect both microphones and line instruments (keyboards, synths, etc.). Connectivity also includes a stereo return, an effects send, 4 independent headphone outputs, and a USB interface to record directly to your computer.
On the mixing side, each channel has essential controls: gain, 2-band EQ, effects send, pan, and volume. The ergonomics are clear and straightforward, making it easy to use even for less experienced users. Weighing only 2 kg, the TrueMix 800 FX offers all essential functions in an ultra-portable format. It also stands out for its ease of use and comprehensive connectivity, whether for streaming, podcast recording, or live performance.
The Notepad 8FX console from Soundcraft features six inputs and includes a Lexicon DSP module capable of producing reverbs, delays, and tap tempo. It has two mic/line combo XLR/jack inputs, each with phantom power and a 100 Hz high-pass filter; two of these have EQ, and one has a Hi-Z instrument option, plus two stereo line inputs on 6.35 mm jacks, one stereo RCA input, and a send/return circuit on jack. It includes a master volume fader, 4 x LED bargraphs, and a front USB port that turns it into a Class Compliant 2 x 2 audio interface for Mac or PC with driver support.
The Volca Mix from Korg is an amplified console with built-in speakers offering four analog channels on mini-jack, including two mono inputs and one stereo input. It can also connect to three other Volca models via their headphone outputs. The mixer features three faders to control channel volumes, a gain knob to adjust the mix balance, and Mute buttons. Each channel also has a Lo/Hi CUT filter to manage bass and treble frequency ranges. The Volca Mix has stereo RCA outputs, a master volume with an LED VU meter, and a headphone output.
The Mix12 FX from Mackie features four mic XLR inputs with phantom power and four stereo TRS 6.35 mm inputs with adjustable gain (-10/+4 dB). It also includes a multi-effect unit with 12 presets and a three-band equalizer with a 75 Hz HPF on the first four channels. The FX knob allows individual effect return adjustment per channel. Additionally, the monitoring/headphone volume is independently adjustable from the main volume, and stereo inputs can be used in mono. The Mix12 FX has a solid metal casing that withstands shocks, and its preamp offers high headroom and a low noise design.
