TEST: Mackie U420d

 Just a quick thing! Do you know what it's like to "just" record something, "just" mix something together, "just" convert whatever into a different sound?

And in reality, this "just" thing is sometimes so complex and time-consuming that you've already forgotten about 50% of the creative inspiration before even the most important wiring has been done.

I, too, always a big advocate of the "big" and "proper" solution, sometimes find myself in a situation where every second really counts. Many songwriting ideas for the new DOMAIN album, which will be released in February 2009, came to me in the most absurd situations (shower, finger exercises, taking out the trash... ;-) and demanded immediate archiving, because, the composers among you will know the problem: anything that is not immediately written down, at least in rough form, in sheet music or saved on a hard drive is forever banished from the brain's creative RAM memory and never comes back! NEVER!

Therefore, small and mobile desktop solutions of any kind in a personally logistically optimized work area can really save your composition or arrangement skills.

One example of the "bring everything together" solution is the Mackie U.420d, a small, portable desktop mixer that processes almost all signals from microphone to line level to phono feed in the smallest of spaces and, if necessary, forwards them directly to the home Mac/PC workstation via a Firewire interface.

Construction:

In contrast to its close relative, the U.420, which is primarily responsible for managing line signals, the U.420d also offers the option of accommodating 2 microphone signals in the routing.

However, the plastic housing is identical with dimensions of 22.4 cm x 8.7 cm x 21.8 cm (W x H x D) and the similar weight of 1.36 kg. Let's start with the connections on the back of the device.

The microphone channels mentioned above are noticeable on the right-hand side, which can be fed with both XLR and 6.25 mm jack. Both channels can be supplied with 48V phantom power if required, which is activated via a small push button located in the middle of the front panel.

This is followed by two stereo line-ins, which are fed either via jack or, when a vinyl record player is connected, via stereo cinch. To counteract the mains hum that often occurs, there is a grounding screw on the left-hand side, which can be used to additionally ground the record player.

This completes the input section, followed by the output area. In addition to a stereo main out, the device has an additional aux out, a headphone output and the Firewire interface mentioned at the beginning.

In addition, the power connection socket of the included power supply is located next to the Firewire port. All in all, a very tidy appearance, simple in concept and clear in access.

On the front, the user is greeted by an equally clear panel, which is almost self-explanatory in terms of its area of ​​application.

On the left side are the two microphone channels, which have a gain control, a three-band tone control and an adjustable aux path. A cue control allows control via headphones before the signal reaches the short but sufficient fader.

On the right side are the stereo channels, which, in addition to the mono channel features, have an adjustable level control instead of the fader and are connected to an additional crossfade control.

This control is primarily designed for DJ use and can also be used to choose between two crossfade speeds (linear / non-linear) using a curve push button.

Arranged in the middle are an oversized master volume control, the volume control for the headphones, the volume control and activation push button for the incoming Firewire signal, the 48V phantom power switch for the two mono channels, a cue check LED and two 8-digit LEDs for the master output.


Practice:

If you take a first look at the U.420d and are also blessed with a bit of imagination, you will immediately notice the all-encompassing application area of ​​the small mixer. Due to the connection area of ​​2 symmetrical microphone inputs, 2 stereo line-ins and two phono inputs, a wide variety of application areas can be generated:

1.) Music production a.)

Pretty much all common instruments / sound generators can be connected to the U.420d, be it a vocal microphone (dynamic / condenser), an acoustic guitar with pickup, keyboards or even an electric guitar, provided you have an adequately sounding preamp / emulation amplifier.

Active monitoring on the main out, if necessary second monitoring on the aux path, or headphones via headphone out, done!

2.) Music production b.)

The DJ setup. Thanks to the double connection options for two phono players, the "record player" can also carry out his own personal setup in addition to the options mentioned above.

3.) Live performance

Everything as under 1.), but with a corresponding PA on the main out and the monitor system (e.g. wedges) on the adjustable Aux (of course only one way, I don't want anyone to come to me with an individual monitor mix for the dwarf!)

If required, additional sound generation from the laptop via the Firewire interface.

4.) DJ live performance

Everything as under 3.), but with the difference that wedges will probably not be connected to the Aux-Out, but rather another small active monitor for the performer.

5.) Broadcast / podcast

Two microphones for the dialogue / monologue on site, tape recording or external music via Line-In 1, telephone / Skype integration (in/out) via Line-In 2 or Aux-Out and a monitor on the main out.

Live recording via Firewire if required!

But wow, if that isn't a comprehensive range of applications!

To put it briefly, the U.420d masters all of the above-mentioned areas of application with ease. It's great that the equalizer frequencies of the microphone channels are again based on the classic Mackie frequencies of 12 Khz in the high frequency range and 80 Hz in the bass range, plus a semi-parametric mid-range filter (100 Hz - 8 Khz), while the line inputs, like the U.420, have their center frequencies at 4 Khz, 1 Khz and 300 Hz.

The product proves to be low-noise, and all of the values ​​are equally impressive.

Conclusion:

Well done! Like its little brother, the U.420, the U.420d is a flexible, great-sounding mixer that, when used with a multimedia-capable PC, delivers excellent results in many areas and also offers greater flexibility in terms of its application area.

Many users will welcome the small desktop mixing solution as a welcome tool in the project studio or in a manageable live setting. A simple, clearly structured concept that is convincing.

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Additional Informations:

#### Overview of the Mackie U420 Series

The Mackie U420 series is designed for users who need a compact, versatile mixer that delivers professional-quality audio. These mixers are ideal for small recording setups, live performances, and multimedia production. Both the U420 and U420d share many common features, such as a user-friendly interface, robust build quality, and high-fidelity audio components. However, there are several key differences that set these two models apart, making each suited to different specific applications and user preferences.

#### Design and Build Quality

**Mackie U420:**

The Mackie U420 is a 4-channel mixer known for its sturdy construction and intuitive layout. The mixer is built with a rugged metal chassis, ensuring durability and reliability in various environments. Its compact size makes it easy to transport and ideal for mobile setups. The U420 features a simple control panel with clearly labeled knobs and switches, making it easy to use even for beginners.

**Mackie U420d:**

The Mackie U420d shares the same robust construction and compact form factor as the U420 but includes additional digital features that enhance its functionality. The "d" in U420d stands for "digital," indicating the inclusion of digital effects and USB connectivity. This model also features a slightly more complex control panel to accommodate the additional digital functions, but it maintains the user-friendly design characteristic of Mackie products.

#### Input and Output Options

**Mackie U420:**

- **Inputs:** The U420 offers a variety of input options, including two mono mic/line channels and one stereo line input. The mono channels feature Mackie’s high-quality preamps, known for their low noise and excellent headroom. The stereo line input is suitable for connecting instruments, keyboards, or other stereo sources.
- **Outputs:** The mixer includes balanced main outputs and a headphone output, providing flexible monitoring options. There are also RCA outputs for connecting to consumer audio equipment.

**Mackie U420d:**

- **Inputs:** The U420d provides similar input options to the U420 but adds USB connectivity for direct integration with computers and digital audio workstations (DAWs). This feature allows users to record and play back audio directly from their computer, making the U420d a versatile tool for digital recording and production.
- **Outputs:** In addition to the balanced main outputs and headphone output found on the U420, the U420d includes USB output, allowing for easy digital recording and playback. The inclusion of USB connectivity significantly expands the mixer’s flexibility and usability in modern digital workflows.

#### Digital Features

**Mackie U420:**

The U420 is a straightforward analog mixer, focusing on providing high-quality audio with minimal processing. It does not include built-in digital effects or USB connectivity, making it a more traditional mixer ideal for users who prefer an all-analog signal path.

**Mackie U420d:**

The U420d stands out with its digital capabilities, including built-in digital effects and USB connectivity. These features make the U420d more versatile and suitable for a wider range of applications:

- **Digital Effects:** The U420d includes a suite of digital effects, such as reverb, delay, and chorus. These effects can be applied to any input channel, adding depth and character to the sound without the need for external processors.
- **USB Connectivity:** The USB interface allows for direct recording to and playback from a computer. This feature is particularly useful for home studios, podcasters, and live streamers who need seamless integration with digital audio software.

#### Sound Quality and Performance

**Mackie U420:**

The U420 delivers pristine sound quality, thanks to its high-headroom preamps and low-noise design. The mixer’s EQ section is simple but effective, allowing for basic tonal shaping. Its analog nature ensures a warm, natural sound, making it suitable for users who value traditional analog audio characteristics.

**Mackie U420d:**

The U420d also offers excellent sound quality, with the added benefit of digital effects and USB connectivity. The digital effects are of high quality, enhancing the overall sound without introducing significant noise or artifacts. The USB interface provides clean, high-resolution audio transfer between the mixer and computer, ensuring professional-grade recordings.

#### Usability and Workflow

**Mackie U420:**

The U420’s straightforward design makes it extremely easy to use. Its simplicity is its strength, allowing users to focus on the mix without being distracted by complex features. This makes the U420 ideal for live sound applications and small recording setups where ease of use is paramount.

**Mackie U420d:**

The U420d’s additional features make it a more versatile tool, especially for users who work with digital audio. The built-in effects and USB connectivity streamline the recording and production process, reducing the need for external gear. This makes the U420d a great choice for home studios, podcasters, and musicians who need a compact but powerful mixing solution.

#### Applications and Suitability

**Mackie U420:**

The U420 is well-suited for:

- Small live sound setups, such as solo performances or small bands.
- Basic recording setups where high-quality analog audio is preferred.
- Users who prefer a simple, straightforward mixer without digital features.

**Mackie U420d:**

The U420d is ideal for:

- Home studios and personal recording setups, thanks to its USB connectivity.
- Podcasters and live streamers who need built-in digital effects and direct computer integration.
- Musicians and producers who want a compact mixer with versatile digital capabilities.

#### Conclusion

Both the Mackie U420 and U420d offer high-quality audio performance in compact, durable packages. The choice between the two depends largely on the user’s specific needs and preferences:

- The U420 is perfect for those who prefer an all-analog signal path and require a simple, reliable mixer for live sound or basic recording.
- The U420d caters to modern audio workflows, providing digital effects and USB connectivity, making it a versatile tool for digital recording and production.

Mackie’s commitment to quality and innovation is evident in both models, ensuring that users can achieve professional results regardless of their choice. Whether you need a straightforward analog mixer or a versatile digital hybrid, the U420 series has something to offer.