TEST: Marantz PMD-706

 Have any of you recently shot a music video or ambitious film video? Have you noticed that almost no one is working with the rather bulky shoulder-mounted cameras anymore, but that people are increasingly turning to a DSLR (digital single-lens reflex) camera as their recording unit? The advantages are obvious. Purchase price, image quality and handling speak a clear language, and the trend will probably increase in the future.

But what if you also need one or more professional audio tracks, for example for film recordings or panel discussions. For a music video, you can easily add the signal in post-editing, but when it comes to a good live sound, said DSLR products are consistently on the hose, because they were designed for image and not for sound recording. Aware of this shortcoming, Marantz has launched the Marantz PMD-706, a multi-track recorder whose design and handling are specifically adapted to the parameters of a DSLR camera.

In addition, the product has a retail price of just over 300 Euros due to Chinese manufacturing, which is very reasonable considering the features offered.


Application

First question, why do you need a six-track mobile recorder? What at first glance looks like shooting a cannon at a sparrow, turns out to be a practical solution at second glance, even though it is more likely to be used on larger sets in the film industry. But first, let's start with a rather small, clear area.


Application area 1.) Podcasting

The recording host has invited 5 experts / friends / drinking buddies and wants to record a corresponding podcast episode in a round of experts. If the host has a corresponding recording device in the form of a more or less ambitious home studio, he can of course choose the classic microphone / console / DAW variant. But what if he wants to remain mobile or wants / needs to drive the recording to another location? Now it's a matter of unwiring, packing, transporting, unpacking, testing, etc. With a mobile device, all that is needed is the microphones along with the cabling and that's it.


Application 2.) Keynote / Discussion evening

Up to 6 experts sit in a discussion forum and discuss any topic. The discussion is additionally recorded on video and is to be published / sold later on DVD or similar or placed on YouTube as product information etc.. Here, too, quick setup without major set-up, after recording completion, the material can be transferred to the DAW to be finalized there in post-editing, if necessary.


Application 3) Rehearsal room recording

Quickly record 6 instruments in parallel independently of each other. Good control over the individual instruments, ambitious songwriting setup.


Field of application 4.) Live recording

Microphones split via splitter, drums mixed as stereo mix via submixer to 2 channels, 2 guitars, bass and vocals. Good option for a sophisticated live recording. Backing vocals (were crooked anyway ;-) sung as overdubs in the studio afterwards, final mix in the DAW.

Application 5.) Film dubbing

Up to six different microphones are placed stationary / movable with boom etc. in the room / outdoor and allow the individual recording of medium-sized groups of people or a spatially optimized acoustic illumination. Especially with 5:1 / 7:1 mixes, you can generate a maximum of plastic acoustics via a six-way parallel playback, which integrates the listener, provided his multi-channel system is set up optimally, in the middle of the action.

According to the manufacturer, the operating temperature of the Marantz PMD-706 can be 5 - 60 degrees Celsius, which means that outdoor recordings in winter could prove difficult, but nothing stands in the way of heavy desert use.

 
Design and construction

The Marantz PMD-706 is a 6-channel recorder, which works with a sample rate of up to 96 kHz and a word width of up to 24 bits. It is powered by 4 AA batteries (not included) or a USB power supply (not included). To use the full power of the Marantz PMD-706, such as phantom power on all microphones, a power supply with a capacity of 1 A is required. As a comparison, an average iPad power supply delivers about 2 A. With the internal battery pack, you can operate a maximum of 2 microphones with phantom power.

The device itself is comparatively light at just under 540 grams, and its dimensions of 164 mm x 110 mm x 50 mm fit the standard dimensions of a DSLR camera. Even though the recorder has a rubberized underside to prevent it from slipping on slippery surfaces, the entire setup is designed for portable and mobile operation. The tripod mount on the bottom, the camera shoe on the top (hot shoe attachment is included) and the side sleeves for attaching the carrying straps suggest the product's main use.


Connections

Due to the fact that the Marantz PMD-706 only has small dimensions and the back of the case is taken up by the AA battery slots in terms of width and especially installation depth, you'll find plenty of jacks, pushbuttons and knobs on the side panels and front panel, though it never gets confusing, provided you still have very good eyesight or have packed your glasses.

To make the most of the recorder's six tracks, the Marantz PMD-706 also has six dedicated balanced inputs, which can be recorded separately, partially summed or grouped together. All microphone jacks are located on the side panels of the housing, whereby 2 lockable XLR combo jacks are located on each side, along with 2 TRS jacks on the left side of the housing. The TRS jacks were probably chosen for space reasons, but can be upgraded to full XLR jacks including phantom power (either 24 or 48 V) via 2 included adapters.

Let's first stay on the left side of the Marantz PMD-706. The audio output / input of a camera can be connected via one 3.5 mm mini-jack input, respectively output, whereby the output volume can be adjusted in the menu navigation. In order to be able to use the recorder as a stereo recording device without major cabling, there is an additional stereo microphone input in the form of a 3.5 mm stereo mini jack in the center left, which can also be supplied with phantom power.

Above the XLR jacks is the SD card slot for storing audio material. Accepted are SD Cards (64 MB - 2 GB), SDHC Cards (4 - 32 GB) and  
SDXC Cards (48 - 128 GB). The six tracks can be recorded in 3x stereo, 6x mono or 4x dual stereo mode. Dual mono and M/S recording modes are also available. The Marantz PMD-706 offers WAV (44.1, 48, or 96 kHz; 16- or 24-bit) and BWF (44.1, 48, or 96 kHz; 16- or 24-bit) as recording formats.

On the right side of the case, in addition to 2 more XLR jacks, there is also the ON/OFF switch, which turns the Marantz PMD-706 on by pressing it down, and in the hold function up locks all of the recorder's buttons to prevent accidental changes. Here is also the micro USB port, which allows you to connect a USB power adapter or exchange data with a DAW. Finally, two more mini-stereo jacks in the form of a line out allow you to connect a mixer / recorder / active speakers and a phone controller a headphones, whereby the headphone output has its own volume control in the form of a small rotary dial.


Front

Next to the small but legible display is an enter wheel with push function to navigate through the different menus. An interesting feature is the Slate push button, which marks a track with the Slate sound, while the Slate sound generator allows easy alignment of audio files with video files when using video editing software. 6 small knobs control the input level of each track, with a peak LED alerting you to impending distortion. Finally, there is a standard Play/Stop etc. control panel, whereby the six buttons each have a double function in terms of playback mode or menu mode.

In home mode, the display informs about all important status indicators like drive, remaining recording time, elapsed recording time, level, phantom power battery status, encryption mode and the setup of the six tracks. In playback mode, the folder and file name are added again.



Practice

What was already apparent from the listed data is surpassed once again in practice. The word flexible would be an understatement in this context. The available recording modes alone fill a whole box. While mono and stereo are familiar to everyone, the dual mono mode (Recorded file 1 = CH1, recorded file 2 = CH1 - DLVL (dual level): -12 dB to -1 dB in 1 dB steps) or Dual Stereo (Recorded file 1 = CH1 left, CH2 right - Recorded file 2 = CH1 - DLVL left, CH2 - DLVL right). In addition, the M/S R in the form of recorded file 1 = left (CH1 + (CH2 x pan setting)), right (CH1 - (CH2 x pan setting) comes into play.

The quality of the signal depends, of course, on the components used and the microphones used, but from the storage possibilities, the Marantz PMD-706 leaves an excellent impression. The microphone preamps used generated a neutral and very low-noise sound in all recording situations. A highlight here is the delay compensation, which can be set separately for each microphone in 1 ms steps and thus performs very well, especially in film recordings.

Conclusion

The Marantz PMD-706 convinces with very good handling at a very attractive price. In combination with a DSLR camera, the product can show all its strengths and leaves an excellent impression in the price/performance ratio. In my opinion, an external USB power supply should still be included in the scope of delivery.

Additional Informations:

Marantz is a renowned audio company with a rich history spanning over 65 years. Established in 1953 by Saul Marantz, the company has become synonymous with high-quality audio equipment, including amplifiers, receivers, CD players, turntables, and home theater systems. This report aims to provide a detailed overview of Marantz, covering its history, product range, technological innovations, and impact on the industry.

History and Background: Marantz was founded by Saul Marantz, an American engineer with a passion for high-fidelity audio reproduction. Saul Marantz's dedication to audio excellence led to the development of groundbreaking audio components that quickly gained a reputation for their superior sound quality and innovative design. Marantz products became highly sought-after by audiophiles and music enthusiasts around the world.

Product Range: Marantz offers a wide range of audio products that cater to various segments of the market. Their product line includes:

Stereo Amplifiers and Receivers: Marantz is renowned for its stereo amplifiers and receivers, which deliver exceptional sound quality and performance. These products feature robust construction, high-quality components, and advanced technologies to ensure accurate audio reproduction.

b) Network Audio Players: Marantz network audio players allow users to stream high-resolution audio files from various sources, including online music services, local networks, and USB storage devices. These devices offer connectivity options such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet, providing seamless integration with streaming platforms and home networks.

c) CD Players and SACD Players: Marantz offers a range of CD players and Super Audio CD (SACD) players that deliver accurate and detailed audio playback. These players feature advanced disc-reading mechanisms, high-quality digital-to-analog converters, and sophisticated audio circuitry for optimal sound reproduction.

d) Turntables: Marantz turntables combine vintage aesthetics with modern engineering, providing vinyl enthusiasts with a high-quality playback experience. These turntables feature precision tonearms, high-quality cartridges, and isolation mechanisms to minimize vibrations and deliver accurate analog sound.

e) AV Receivers and Home Theater Systems: Marantz's AV receivers and home theater systems provide immersive audio experiences for home entertainment setups. These products support advanced audio formats, such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and offer multiple inputs and outputs for seamless integration with various audio and video sources.

Technological Innovations: Marantz has been at the forefront of technological innovations in the audio industry. Some notable advancements introduced by Marantz include:

HDAM (Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module): Marantz's HDAM technology, introduced in the 1990s, replaced conventional integrated circuit op-amps with discrete circuitry, resulting in improved sound quality, greater dynamic range, and reduced distortion.

b) Current Feedback Amplification: Marantz's Current Feedback Amplification technology provides excellent control over speakers, ensuring accurate sound reproduction and precise audio signal handling.

c) Marantz Musical Mastering (MMM-Stream) Technology: This proprietary technology enhances the quality of digital music by upscaling low-resolution audio files, restoring lost information, and improving overall audio fidelity.

d) HEOS Multi-room Audio: Marantz has integrated HEOS technology into some of its products, allowing users to wirelessly stream music to multiple rooms in their homes, creating a seamless multi-room audio experience.

Industry Impact: Marantz has made a significant impact on the audio industry. Its commitment to audio excellence, innovative technologies, and meticulous attention to detail has earned the company a loyal customer base. Marantz products are known for their exceptional sound quality, build quality, and elegant design. The company's influence can be seen in the adoption of its technological advancements by other manufacturers and the recognition it has received from both industry professionals and consumers.

Conclusion: Marantz has established itself as a leading brand in the audio industry, with a long history of producing high-quality audio products. With a diverse product range, technological innovations, and a commitment to audio excellence, Marantz continues to deliver exceptional sound experiences to audiophiles and music enthusiasts worldwide. As the audio industry evolves, Marantz is well-positioned to continue pushing the boundaries of audio technology and shaping the future of high-fidelity audio reproduction.

TEST: Manley Core

 In the past, if you looked at the control room in the top category reference sound studios, you would not only find an expansive console, but also at least four 20 U racks in which the finest outboard gear monitored the sound refinement in the form of dynamics processors, equalizers and noise gates. These times are long gone due to the logarithmic growth in computing power of home PCs in recent years. Multi-cores and triple-digit RAM numbers take over the work by means of internal plug-ins, which used to be diverted to the external processors with considerable effort via corresponding patch panels.

One could think that the vast majority of 19 inch equipment has left the recording studios for all time. But wait, one representative is bravely resisting its extinction and will probably not enter the eternal hunting grounds anytime soon. We're talking about the Channel Strip, which, in addition to a classic preamp function, also has a compressor, an equalizer and sometimes a limiter function. Especially in the field of vocal recording, the most important parameters can be optimized right in the first signal stage, before it goes into the conversion.

In addition to some other competitors, which with the exception of companies such as SPL are almost without exception based in the USA, the company Manley has a very good reputation in the professional field and has already created a classic with the Voxbox. With the Manley Core, the American company, which has been on the market since the late eighties, now offers a somewhat reduced version of the Voxbox, although it is pointed out several times in advance that the tube circuit of the flagship has been adopted. A real Manley for under 2,000 euros? With manufacturing in the USA? That makes curious.


Design

Like many other Manley products, the Manley Core is also based on a tube input stage, which together with a compressor, an equalizer and a limiter result in a single-channel channel strip that has the most important signal processing parameters. The Manley Core is packaged in a 2 U 19 inch rack insert, which also has four small rubber feet and has been dipped in a deep blue color. The case is very sturdy, especially the front panel leaves a very solid impression.

On the left side of the front panel, the most important input controls, respectively pressure switches were arranged, which are as follows:

Input control with a pre-amplification of up to 60 dB
input impedance selector switch microphone or line signal
a quite high set subsonic filter of 120 Hertz
a high or low gain selector switch (high: up to +40 dB, low: up to +20 dB)
phantom power 40V

All pressure switches are equipped with white backlighting. In addition, the input for high-impedance signals is located below the push switches.

Both the input regulator, as well as all other still following potentiometers, run extremely smoothly and sensitively, so that one can approach the desired settings precisely. In contrast to many other preamps, which are designed as classic catch-up amplifiers, the Manley Core Input controller works with two double triodes of the types 12AX7 and 6922 in cooperation with fixed preamps as level reducers.

The next stage is the compressor section, which has only three controls. Besides the degree of compression, the attack speed can be set from 5 - 60 milliseconds and a release speed from 100 - 1500 milliseconds. The popular input or makeup controls are not in the concept of the Manley Core. In terms of circuitry, Manly once again relies on the company's internal ELOP system, which is based on the use of an optical control element and is also responsible for the missing specifications in the attack and release range. Also the fixed ratio factor of 3:1 underlines Manley's very own approach to a compressor.

In order to prevent the tube stage from accidentally clipping under any circumstances, the compressor stage was placed before the actual tube stage, which means a guaranteed safeguard for the signal flow when the compressor is activated. However, this only takes effect when the compressor is activated, which can be deactivated by a toggle switch.

Another special feature is found in the equalizer section. Two shelving filters plus a bandpass equalize the signal as desired. The 90 Hz of the low filter still corresponds to a large extent to the broad taste, the high filter however works despite its center at 12 kHz down to 3 kHz, which is rather an exception. The maximum gain here is +/-12 dB. The bandpass on the other hand is very flexible, the frequency can be selected between 100 - 1000 Hz, or from 1 kHz - 10 kHz, both optionally +/- 10 dB.

The last link in the chain is a FET limiter, which works with a threshold and a fixed attack time of 115 microseconds. The release range can be controlled from 2.3 to 300 milliseconds. The last control unit is an active amplifier stage, which is adjustable from -6dBu up to +4dBu.

All balanced inputs and outputs are located on the rear in the form of a microphone and line input in XLR design and a direct out, respectively main out. The Direct Out picks up the signal behind the input and compressor section, while the Main Out runs through the complete signal chain. Additionally, there is a loop-in point in the form of an unbalanced Y-TSR connector to place additional signal processors in the signal path.

Finally, the front of the Manley Core's cabinet is dominated by a generous VU meter, which uses toggle switches to display the levels of the Direct Out, the Main Out or the gain reduction of the compressor. In contrast to the classic dark yellow, the display is dipped in a dignified blue.

The switching power supply of the Manley Core is completely new, which not only produces the necessary 300 volts for the tube voltage, but is also compatible with all international power grids from 100 to 240 volts at 50/60 hertz.
Practice

Even though the Manley Core operates rather in the moderate price segment by Manley standards, it would still be a lie to say that a decent expectation hadn't built up in me. A Channel Strip that only sounds "good" would simply be too little in this category. But no worries, it came as it had to come.

Due to the clear and concise design of the product, you can indeed get started right away and will not be disappointed. Both in the vocal and instrumental range, the Manley Core knows how to convince, especially since the tube characteristic is omnipresent in the sound. The intuitive approach facilitates many things, but also requires a certain routine in the workflow.

Sonically, the Manley Core offers a pleasantly soft basic sound without slipping into the "sloppy". Even without compressor, equalizer and limiter, the tube stage already strongly enhances the output signal and refines it with a touch of shine. The sluggish response of the compressor will surprise some at first, but in return you get a wonderfully smooth transient phase, which forms a very unique character.

The equalizer section works quite neutrally in terms of coloration, but for me personally the treble shelving filter is a bit too low and leads the high mids a bit too much in the control path. This is well noticeable in vocal recordings. The limiter is a good addition, but it requires some caution in handling. If you misunderstand the limiter as a makeup component, you will quickly be punished with distortions. With a discreet approach, however, it increases the assertiveness factor of the signal enormously.

 
Conclusion

With the Manley Core, one of the big American studio names offers a very good channel strip in the moderate price segment. Despite a retail price of less than 2,000 euros, the customer does not have to do without the classic, "American" sound, which has always been characterized by a soft basic sound paired with high density in the output signal.

Due to the clearly kept interface, one can very quickly turn to an intuitive way of working, which usually offers the best results in terms of sound. A very flexible product, which knows how to handle vocal as well as instrumental signals.

Recommended in every respect!

Additional Informations:

Manley Audio is a prominent audio equipment manufacturer known for its exceptional craftsmanship and commitment to producing high-quality audio products. Founded in 1989 by David Manley, the company has garnered a reputation for designing and manufacturing innovative vacuum tube audio gear, including preamplifiers, compressors, equalizers, and microphones. This report aims to provide an in-depth overview of Manley Audio, covering its history, product range, technological innovations, and impact on the industry.

History and Background: Manley Audio was established by David Manley, a British-born engineer with a passion for audio tube technology. David's expertise in vacuum tube electronics and his commitment to preserving the warmth and character of analog sound laid the foundation for the company. In its early years, Manley Audio gained recognition for its handcrafted vacuum tube preamplifiers and quickly became a favorite among audio professionals seeking high-quality audio gear.

Product Range: Manley Audio offers a diverse range of audio products that combine vintage tube technology with modern design and functionality. Their product line includes:
Preamplifiers: Manley preamplifiers are renowned for their rich, warm, and detailed sound reproduction. These preamps are widely used in recording studios, mastering facilities, and high-end home audio setups, providing transparent audio amplification and signal enhancement.

b) Compressors/Limiters: Manley compressors and limiters are highly regarded for their musicality and versatility. These units offer precise control over dynamics, allowing engineers to shape the sound with finesse and maintain the integrity of the audio source.

c) Equalizers: Manley equalizers provide precise tonal shaping capabilities, allowing engineers to sculpt the frequency response of audio signals. With their musical-sounding EQ curves and vintage-inspired designs, Manley equalizers have become sought-after tools for both recording and mixing applications.

d) Microphones: Manley microphones are handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, offering exceptional sonic characteristics. Their microphone range includes both tube and solid-state models, known for their accuracy, transparency, and versatility in capturing vocals and instruments.

Technological Innovations: Manley Audio has continuously pushed the boundaries of audio technology and implemented innovative features in their products. Some notable technological innovations by Manley Audio include:

High Voltage Tube Circuitry: Manley Audio is renowned for its implementation of high voltage tube circuitry, which contributes to the exceptional audio quality and unique sonic character of their products. The use of vacuum tubes adds warmth, harmonics, and a certain "vintage" flavor to the audio signal.

b) Variable Mu Compression: Manley's Variable Mu compressors feature a variable-mu tube design that provides smooth and musical compression characteristics. This design has been highly regarded for its ability to enhance dynamics and add depth to recordings.

c) T-Bar Mod: Manley's T-Bar mod is a modification offered for some of their equalizers, which allows engineers to switch between two different sets of EQ curves, expanding the versatility and tonal shaping possibilities of the units.

d) Mid-Side Processing: Some of Manley's compressors and equalizers incorporate mid-side processing capabilities, enabling engineers to independently control the level and dynamics of the mid and side components of a stereo signal. This technique offers greater control over stereo imaging and width.

Industry Impact: Manley Audio has had a significant impact on the professional audio industry. Their commitment to maintaining the integrity of analog sound and their meticulous craftsmanship has garnered a loyal customer base of audio professionals, recording studios, and musicians worldwide. Manley Audio products are known for their exceptional build quality, attention to detail, and their ability to deliver pristine audio quality. The company's commitment to preserving the warmth and character of analog sound has also influenced other manufacturers in the industry.

Conclusion: Manley Audio stands as a respected manufacturer of high-quality audio equipment, known for its craftsmanship, innovation, and dedication to preserving the sonic qualities of vacuum tube technology. With a diverse range of products, technological innovations, and a reputation for excellence, Manley Audio continues to be a go-to choice for audio professionals seeking exceptional audio gear. As the industry evolves, Manley Audio is poised to continue making significant contributions to the world of analog audio and shaping the future of high-end audio equipment.

TEST: Mackie Big Knob Studio

 Desktop monitor controllers seem to be the product of the moment. Whether it's the success of SPL's Crimson series or the ever-increasing trend towards multiple functions in the smallest possible space, the combination of controller and audio interface is unstoppable in the home studio sector. Aware of this, Mackie has also smelled a rat and has positioned itself in good time with a new edition of its Big Knob series. With the Mackie Big Knob Studio, we have the middle version of the new triumvirate for testing.

Concept

As already mentioned, the Mackie Big Knob Studio functions as a combination of controller and interface, although the combination does not necessarily have to be used in parallel. The product can also be used as a controller for analog signal routing only. A total of 3 stereo signals can be routed to 2 monitor paths plus a stereo track, which is switchable between -10 dB and + 4 dB. The Mackie Big Knob Studio can also interface to a PC via a USB output, and it also has 2 headphone outputs, which in turn have a talkback microphone connection.

Front

In addition to the two headphone outputs, which can be fed with the USB signal and inputs 1-4, there is a mini-jack on the front of the housing under the designation StereoIn 3/4 to quickly connect and listen to devices from the iPhone/iPad league. In this case, the signal is preferred to the inputs 3 and 4 on the back and is not to be understood as an independent input source.

Rear panel

Besides the On/Off switch and the screwable input socket of the included power supply (+18V / 1.5 A), all other inputs and outputs have been placed on the back of the case. Except for the two lockable combo jacks from Neutrik, these are TRS jacks without exception, which can be assigned either balanced or unbalanced. In addition to the already mentioned outputs, the inputs 3/4 are also available here, optionally in -10 dB and + 4 dB input sensitivity.

Housing and controls

Once again Mackie convinces with a very massive construction. The Chinese-made device has a solid steel housing, 4 non-slip rubber feet, which even adhere to a glass plate as if glued and a very pleasant knob feel, which offers just the right resistance between sluggish and cumbersome. Due to the solid steel housing, the weight of the Mackie Big Knob Studio screws up to a stately 1.6 kilograms despite the comparatively small dimensions of 81 mm x 251 mm x 163 mm (H x W x D), which results in a pleasantly firm and secure stand on the work surface.

Operation and appearance

The surface of the Mackie Big Knob Studio can be divided into 3 areas due to the centered and grayed strip, whereby the product's namesake, the master volume control of monitor outputs A and B, is the optical focus. Said Big Knob glides smoothly and evenly over the entire control range, which does without further scaling. If you like to work with a dB display or something similar for volume control, you will unfortunately be disappointed here.

In the gray contrasting strip one finds 2 output (monitor A and B) and 3 input pressure switches (USB, 3/4, 1/2), whereby a multiple activation is possible. As a visual control, the pressure switches are underlaid with a green backlight when activated. Once again, the popular Onyx amplifiers have been installed as preamplifiers for inputs 1/2, which can boost even very quiet signals with up to 60 dB. A stereo pan push button switch lets you choose whether you want to use the two inputs as a stereo L/R signal or as a dual center-routed mono signal. Likewise, a phantom power of +48V is possible via a push switch.

In the upper segment of the surface, the respective gain controls of the Onyx preamplifiers are located on the far left, which also only have the Min/Max designations. Further orientation aids, such as the popular U-grid of other Mackie consoles, are missing here. For this, you have to make a jump to the right, where the gain control of the stereo channel 3/4 has been laid out with said grid and the level attenuation/boost of +/- 12 dB. On the far right, there are two trim controls to individually adjust the output volume of the two speaker pairs A and B by lowering the level by up to -12 dB.

Below the gray bar are 2 independent volume controls for the two headphone outputs, which have to share a common path. Via a push button, the user can choose whether the headphone signal taps the 2-track output or the cue signal. A knob to the left of the two headphone controls allows the user to continuously select between the playback and the input signal, ensuring latency-free monitoring.

Below the Big Knob volume control are three pushbuttons labeled Mono, Mute and Dim, which are self-explanatory in their function and relate their action only to the monitor outputs. As a visual control of the output level, the Mackie Big Knob Studio also has a 2x 16-digit LED chain above the volume control. Last but not least, the talkback volume control is located on the bottom right of the surface, along with an activation push button, which routes the talkback signal to the headphone outputs.

Interface

As already mentioned, with the Mackie Big Knob Studio you get 2 devices in one. In addition to the controller functions, the device can also take over interface functions. Via the USB interface, both PC and Mac are available as DAW platforms, whereby the latter, as expected, gets by without additional drivers, while the former requires the installation of the ASIO driver, which can be downloaded from the Mackie website. In the DAW, 2 inputs and 2 outputs appear after installation, with the converters generating 192 kHz at 24-bit as the maximum resolution.

There is also a push button on the back called "Rec Src Select" which simplifies loopback recording for blogs, podcasts, etc. When the button is pressed, only the combo jacks are routed to the DAW; when the switch is not pressed, the DAW's output signal is output in addition to the Mackie Big Knob Studio's inputs, allowing for annotation of the signal.

Practice

When placing the Mackie Big Knob Studio, you should be aware that there is enough space both behind and in front of the unit. Personally, I'm not a fan of front-facing audio jacks, as they usually have to be routed in tight curves back behind the unit, unless you're dealing with signal sources that are only rudimentary to the controller.

Here Mackie once again proves the practical thinking of its engineers. Input devices such as iPhones or iPads are usually only used for a short time before they are used for other purposes, so the mini-jack stereo input on the front makes sense. As for the headphone outputs, the reasonableness of the front jack placement depends on its area of use. If the sound engineer and producer or similar primarily want to listen to the headphone signal, placing the outputs on the front is optimal. If, on the other hand, the signal is to be sent to a vocal booth, for example, I consider rear-mounted jacks, which route the cable into a corresponding strand, to make more sense.

In terms of haptics, Mackie once again meets the demands that are placed on a modern desktop device these days. A bomb-proof stand and an intuitive switch and control assignment, in cooperation with an ergonomic housing shape, allow stress-free, targeted work in almost all speech and music areas. The entire signal routing, starting with the preamps and ending with the output signals, shines with a round, neutral sound, which is at no time diminished in quality with ambient noise or headroom bottlenecks.

Conclusion

With the Mackie Big Knob Studio, the American manufacturer scores with its combination of controller and interface across the board. The product with its 2in1 concept is made for the private home studio and offers, in addition to 2 high-quality preamps and a flexible monitoring, an overall coherent concept for almost all situations of modern home recording.

Additional Informations:

Mackie Audio: A Comprehensive Report on the Company

    Introduction: Mackie Audio is a renowned audio equipment manufacturer that has been at the forefront of the professional audio industry for several decades. Founded in 1988 by Greg Mackie and Martin Schneider, the company has established itself as a leading provider of innovative and high-quality audio solutions for musicians, recording engineers, and sound reinforcement professionals. This report aims to provide a detailed overview of Mackie Audio, covering its history, product range, market position, and impact on the industry.

    History and Background:
    Mackie Audio was born out of a vision to create affordable and user-friendly audio equipment without compromising on quality. Greg Mackie, a studio recording engineer, and Martin Schneider, a professional sound reinforcement expert, joined forces to develop products that catered to the needs of audio professionals at all levels. Their first breakthrough came in 1989 with the release of the LM-1602 mixer, which revolutionized the industry with its compact size and intuitive design.

    Product Range:
    Mackie Audio offers a diverse range of audio products designed to meet the needs of various applications. Their product line includes:

a) Mixers: Mackie mixers are widely recognized for their exceptional sound quality, robust construction, and intuitive controls. From compact models for small gigs and home studios to large-format consoles for live sound reinforcement, Mackie offers a comprehensive range of mixers to suit different budgets and requirements.

b) Studio Monitors: Mackie studio monitors are highly regarded for their accuracy and transparency, making them a top choice for professional recording studios and home setups alike. The company offers both active and passive monitor options, ensuring that customers have a wide selection to choose from.

c) Loudspeakers: Mackie loudspeakers are renowned for their durability, portability, and exceptional audio performance. Their portable PA systems and powered speakers have gained popularity in the live sound market, providing high-quality sound reinforcement solutions for concerts, events, and installations.

d) Recording Equipment: Mackie provides a range of recording equipment, including audio interfaces, control surfaces, and studio accessories. These products are designed to enhance the recording experience and offer flexibility and convenience to audio professionals.

    Technological Innovations:
    Mackie Audio has consistently pushed the boundaries of audio technology with its innovative solutions. Over the years, the company has introduced several groundbreaking features and technologies, including:

a) Onyx Preamps: Mackie's Onyx preamps are known for their low noise, high headroom, and exceptional audio fidelity. These preamps have become a hallmark of Mackie's mixers, ensuring pristine sound reproduction.

b) High-Resolution Studio Monitors: Mackie's HR series studio monitors deliver accurate, detailed, and transparent sound reproduction, making them an ideal choice for critical listening and professional mixing/mastering applications.

c) DL Series Digital Mixers: Mackie's DL series mixers integrate the power of digital mixing with the convenience of wireless control via iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch. This innovative approach revolutionized the way live sound engineers mix performances.

d) FreePlay Series: The FreePlay series combines portable, battery-powered design with powerful sound reproduction. These systems are equipped with advanced Bluetooth streaming capabilities, making them versatile solutions for small venues, presentations, and outdoor events.

    Market Position:
    Mackie Audio has successfully positioned itself as a trusted brand in the professional audio industry. Their commitment to quality, innovative design, and customer satisfaction has garnered a loyal customer base. The company's products are widely used in recording studios, live sound applications, broadcast facilities, and home setups. Mackie Audio has also expanded its global reach, with distribution networks in various countries, enabling a wide availability of their products worldwide.

    Industry Impact:
    Mackie Audio's contributions to the audio industry extend beyond its product offerings. The company has played an instrumental role in shaping the way audio equipment is designed, manufactured, and marketed. Mackie's user-friendly approach, focus on affordability, and commitment to delivering reliable performance have set industry standards and inspired other manufacturers to follow suit. Furthermore, Mackie's emphasis on customer feedback and product development has resulted in a continuous cycle of improvement and innovation.

    Conclusion:
    Mackie Audio has emerged as a leading force in the professional audio industry, driven by its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. With a diverse product range, technological advancements, and a strong market position, Mackie continues to provide audio professionals with reliable and high-performance solutions. As the company moves forward, it is poised to further shape the industry with its groundbreaking products and unwavering dedication to the art of sound reproduction.

TEST: Mackie 802 VLZ3

 If you take a look around the audio industry worldwide, you will quickly notice that there are relatively few manufacturers that follow a consistent product policy. One of these manufacturers is Mackie. In my almost 20 years as a producer, I have never encountered a situation where I would not have found a suitable piece of equipment from the American manufacturer of mixing consoles.

Whether it's a large F.O.H. console, a rack mixer, a submixer or a project studio, Mackie has an extremely extensive product range that has something for almost everyone. A representative of the last category is the microphone/line mixer 802 VLZ3, which I tested. Its field of application is small productions and various submixer functions, but without having to forgo the features and sound of the big consoles in its guild.

Construction:

Here really has been squeezed into the smallest space all the functional elements that can be accommodated on the surface. With its dimensions of 27 centimeters in depth, 23 centimeters in width and about 5 centimeters in height, the model is still in the range of the smallest mixers. At first glance, it is immediately clear that nothing is left to chance at Mackie. All jack sockets, although partly very close to each other, have exactly the right distance to be able to attach even the royal class of jack plugs a la Neutrik next to each other.

The housing is as usual made of a silver-colored anodized and folded sheet metal, impeccably processed, and in the usual quality. On the back of the housing, in addition to four small rubber feet, which give the mixer the necessary stability, there is also a device consisting of three holes, in order to be able to attach the device to a microphone stand if necessary.

Strictly speaking, the 802 is an 8-channel combination of microphone and line mixer, whereby the sound engineer has 3 microphone and 3 stereo signal paths available for processing. Huh? 3 mic channels and 3 stereo sums makes a total of 9 channels, right? Correct, but the third microphone channel and the first stereo pair share a channel strip, so only one of the two elements can be controlled at a time.

Channels one through three have as input jacks three XLR females, which as usual with Mackie are not equipped with a locking mechanism. However, thanks to their being guided out the top, the risk of unintentionally pulling the plugs is extremely low. In addition, the plugs experience sufficient hold due to an internal slight wedging even without the missing lock. Of course, the channels 1 - 3 are to be supplied with phantom power if necessary.

Let's start with channel strip 1. Below the Neutrik jacks, which are used to connect dynamic or condenser microphones, there is another input jack, which can be wired balanced or unbalanced. Immediately below this is the insert path, which can be used to loop in a compressor or a comparable dynamics processor via a Y-signal path.

Below this are two pressure switches. The left colleague jerks with a reduction of 18 db below 100 Hertz to the impact sound, the right colleague ensures a direct feed of a guitar signal without a D.I. box in the signal path to anchor. Each channel has an aux path, which is connected to a summing control on the right side and can be routed either pre or post fader. The three-band tone control features center frequencies of 12 kilohertz, 2.5 kilohertz and 80 hertz. A pan control, a mute switch and a pre-fader solo switch, along with a rotary fader complete the short description.

All controls have an even and buttery-smooth control path, whereby a perceptible small notch at 12 o'clock on the tone controls and the pan control indicates the 0 db position, respectively the center of the stereo image.

Among other things, the extensive routing options are to be emphasized, which this mixer reveals in its price category. In addition to 2 complete main out pairs in the form of XRL, respectively stereo jack, the mixer has the control room out and an additional alternative stereo out for feeding a recorder or, for example, the control of a second monitoring in the studio. The XRL outs can be switched in their signal strength between + 4db or microphone level to route the 802 as a submixer into 2 microphone inputs of an external mixer.

The 802 has a stereo return signal path, which is adjustable in both output and input. In addition, there are four RCA jacks on the panel, which provide tape-in and tape-out. Two chains consisting of twelve LEDs each provide information about the respective levels.


Practice:

So much has already been described about the sound of the Mackie mixers, so that I can actually only repeat myself. Nevertheless, I do not want to conceal that also this small mixer is inferior to his bigger brothers sonically in little. Although we have no parametric mids available, and thus the flexibility is somewhat limited, it is precisely the mid-range control with 2.5 kilohertz, which was once again very tastefully designed and for the price range unusually soft in this difficult frequency terrain intervenes in the sound.

Also my personal favorite, the catch-up amplifier in the microphone channels, can be driven into saturation in a wonderfully cultivated way and ensures a smooth transition to clipping. A practical compression can be created without any problems, which suits recordings with a high degree of saturation and limited dynamics very well. High-quality results can be achieved in cooperation with a ground-in and correctly set compressor.



Conclusion:


Once again Mackie has succeeded in building a product with the highest practicality, excellent sound and high flexibility. Small detail solutions, which are noticed only if they are not to be found with the competition, make one again and again clear that here a development team was at work, which was over decades locally and looked the technicians on the fingers.

It's not for nothing that various attributes, from the layout to the routing, have been copied again and again by different manufacturers, without ever reaching the high quality of the original.

It is difficult for me to find a comparable competitor that can offer similar attributes at this price. In my opinion, the 802 VLZ3 is the best you can buy in this field of application at the moment.

Additional Informations:

- Mackie Audio: A Comprehensive Report on the Company
Introduction: Mackie Audio is a renowned audio equipment manufacturer that has been at the forefront of the professional audio industry for several decades. Founded in 1988 by Greg Mackie and Martin Schneider, the company has established itself as a leading provider of innovative and high-quality audio solutions for musicians, recording engineers, and sound reinforcement professionals. This report aims to provide a detailed overview of Mackie Audio, covering its history, product range, market position, and impact on the industry.

History and Background: Mackie Audio was born out of a vision to create affordable and user-friendly audio equipment without compromising on quality. Greg Mackie, a studio recording engineer, and Martin Schneider, a professional sound reinforcement expert, joined forces to develop products that catered to the needs of audio professionals at all levels. Their first breakthrough came in 1989 with the release of the LM-1602 mixer, which revolutionized the industry with its compact size and intuitive design.
Product Range: Mackie Audio offers a diverse range of audio products designed to meet the needs of various applications. Their product line includes:

Mixers: Mackie mixers are widely recognized for their exceptional sound quality, robust construction, and intuitive controls. From compact models for small gigs and home studios to large-format consoles for live sound reinforcement, Mackie offers a comprehensive range of mixers to suit different budgets and requirements.

b) Studio Monitors: Mackie studio monitors are highly regarded for their accuracy and transparency, making them a top choice for professional recording studios and home setups alike. The company offers both active and passive monitor options, ensuring that customers have a wide selection to choose from.

c) Loudspeakers: Mackie loudspeakers are renowned for their durability, portability, and exceptional audio performance. Their portable PA systems and powered speakers have gained popularity in the live sound market, providing high-quality sound reinforcement solutions for concerts, events, and installations.

d) Recording Equipment: Mackie provides a range of recording equipment, including audio interfaces, control surfaces, and studio accessories. These products are designed to enhance the recording experience and offer flexibility and convenience to audio professionals.

Technological Innovations: Mackie Audio has consistently pushed the boundaries of audio technology with its innovative solutions. Over the years, the company has introduced several groundbreaking features and technologies, including:

Onyx Preamps: Mackie's Onyx preamps are known for their low noise, high headroom, and exceptional audio fidelity. These preamps have become a hallmark of Mackie's mixers, ensuring pristine sound reproduction.

b) High-Resolution Studio Monitors: Mackie's HR series studio monitors deliver accurate, detailed, and transparent sound reproduction, making them an ideal choice for critical listening and professional mixing/mastering applications.

c) DL Series Digital Mixers: Mackie's DL series mixers integrate the power of digital mixing with the convenience of wireless control via iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch. This innovative approach revolutionized the way live sound engineers mix performances.

d) FreePlay Series: The FreePlay series combines portable, battery-powered design with powerful sound reproduction. These systems are equipped with advanced Bluetooth streaming capabilities, making them versatile solutions for small venues, presentations, and outdoor events.

Market Position: Mackie Audio has successfully positioned itself as a trusted brand in the professional audio industry. Their commitment to quality, innovative design, and customer satisfaction has garnered a loyal customer base. The company's products are widely used in recording studios, live sound applications, broadcast facilities, and home setups. Mackie Audio has also expanded its global reach, with distribution networks in various countries, enabling a wide availability of their products worldwide.

Industry Impact: Mackie Audio's contributions to the audio industry extend beyond its product offerings. The company has played an instrumental role in shaping the way audio equipment is designed, manufactured, and marketed. Mackie's user-friendly approach, focus on affordability, and commitment to delivering reliable performance have set industry standards and inspired other manufacturers to follow suit. Furthermore, Mackie's emphasis on customer feedback and product development has resulted in a continuous cycle of improvement and innovation.

Conclusion: Mackie Audio has emerged as a leading force in the professional audio industry, driven by its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. With a diverse product range, technological advancements, and a strong market position, Mackie continues to provide audio professionals with reliable and high-performance solutions. As the company moves forward, it is poised to further shape the industry with its groundbreaking products and unwavering dedication to the art of sound reproduction.

- Desktop Audio Mixers: An In-depth Report

Introduction: Desktop audio mixers are essential tools for audio production and mixing tasks in various settings, including home studios, podcasting, live streaming, and small-scale live performances. This comprehensive report aims to provide a detailed overview of desktop audio mixers, covering their functionality, features, benefits, and popular models in the market.

Functionality and Features: Desktop audio mixers serve as the central hub for audio signals, allowing users to control and manipulate multiple audio sources. The primary functions and features of desktop audio mixers include:

Input Channels: These mixers typically offer a range of input channels to accommodate various audio sources such as microphones, instruments, media players, and computers. Each input channel includes controls for gain, EQ, and auxiliary sends.

b) Faders and Knobs: Faders and knobs are used to adjust the volume levels and control the pan (stereo placement) of individual audio channels. These physical controls provide tactile feedback and precise adjustments for audio mixing.

c) EQ and Effects: Most desktop audio mixers feature built-in equalization (EQ) controls, allowing users to shape the tonal balance of individual audio channels. Additionally, some models offer onboard effects processors for adding reverb, delay, chorus, and other effects to the audio signals.

d) Monitoring and Headphone Outputs: Desktop mixers provide dedicated headphone outputs and monitoring options, enabling users to monitor the audio being mixed in real-time. This is crucial for accurate monitoring and making informed mixing decisions.

e) USB Audio Interface: Many modern desktop audio mixers also function as USB audio interfaces, allowing direct recording and playback to a computer. This integration simplifies the recording process and eliminates the need for additional audio interfaces.

f) Connectivity Options: Desktop audio mixers offer a range of connectivity options, including XLR, 1/4-inch TRS, and RCA inputs and outputs. They may also include features like Bluetooth connectivity, USB connectivity for connecting to computers, and auxiliary send/return loops for integrating external audio processors.

Benefits of Desktop Audio Mixers: Desktop audio mixers provide several benefits that make them essential tools for audio production:

Versatility: Desktop mixers can handle a wide range of audio sources, making them suitable for various applications such as music production, podcasting, live streaming, and small-scale live performances.

b) Flexibility and Control: With multiple input channels, EQ controls, and effects processing, desktop mixers offer users a high degree of control over their audio signals. This allows for precise adjustments and customization of the sound.

c) Improved Audio Quality: High-quality desktop mixers are designed with clean preamps, low noise floors, and transparent signal paths, resulting in improved audio quality and professional-sounding recordings.

d) Real-time Monitoring: The headphone outputs and monitoring options on desktop mixers enable real-time monitoring, ensuring accurate sound reproduction during recording and mixing sessions.

e) Integration with DAWs: Many desktop audio mixers can seamlessly integrate with digital audio workstations (DAWs) through their USB audio interface functionality. This simplifies the workflow by allowing direct recording and playback from the computer.

Popular Desktop Audio Mixer Models: Several renowned manufacturers offer a range of desktop audio mixers. Here are a few popular models:

Behringer Xenyx Q802USB: This compact mixer features 8 input channels, a built-in USB interface, 3-band EQ, and one-knob compression per channel, making it an excellent choice for small-scale productions and home studios.

b) Mackie ProFX12v3: With 12 input channels, onboard effects processing, and a USB interface, this mixer is well-suited for live sound applications and recording setups.

c) Yamaha MG10XU: Known for its reliability and sound quality, the Yamaha MG10XU offers 10 input channels, D-PRE preamps, built-in SPX effects, and a USB interface, making it a popular choice for small studios and live performances.

d) Soundcraft Signature 12MTK: This mixer combines analog sound with digital functionality, offering 12 input channels, British-style EQ, Lexicon effects, and a multitrack USB interface, making it a versatile option for recording and live sound applications.

Conclusion: Desktop audio mixers play a crucial role in audio production, offering versatility, control, and improved audio quality for various applications. With their functionality, features, and integration capabilities, desktop mixers empower audio professionals, podcasters, musicians, and content creators to achieve professional-level sound reproduction and mixing. As technology advances, desktop audio mixers are expected to continue evolving to meet the ever-changing demands of the audio industry.

TEST: Mackie 402VLZ3

 Don't we all know this problem from our own experience? Instrumental equipment for the rehearsal room or the rehearsal studio is available in abundance, only a minimal vocal system with the most important function is missing once again. The only console available is the 64 channel monster from F.O.H. Platz, which is not only completely oversized for this application, but also rests nicely packed in a flight case safely stowed in the band truck.

Everything longs for a mini mixer, which on the one hand has a good audiophile sound, possesses all important connections, but nevertheless fits from its dimensions into a small suitcase, or better still into a small briefcase. In order to satisfy these demands, the company Mackie has created the midget mixer 402-VLZ3, a product which is in the demanding line of VLZ products, but which is limited by its field of application only to the most important points of a mixing console.

In addition to the above-mentioned field of application, such a product line can score especially in the broadcast area and can be expanded in combination with a powerful laptop within a very short time to a broadcast workstation, which can also be used in modern broadcast areas such as audio and video podcasts. The device was developed in the USA, but is assembled in China.

Construction:

At just a cute 1.1 kilograms fighting weight, the 402 is almost impossible to talk about weight. The device fits easily in a strong man's hand and is really more than handy, measuring 15 centimeters wide, 19 centimeters long, and 4 centimeters high. The device comes in a silver anodized case and makes a good impression in terms of workmanship. The case unit is fixed with a bottom part in eight different places using Phillips screws. A front part covers the access to the electronics, on the front side there is the connection for the power supply, as well as a simple on/off switch to activate the device. All other controls and connections are located on the top of the case.

In terms of channel moves, it is primarily a two-channel mixer, which has been supplemented with a line-in stereo input. The main channels one and two are full-fledged microphone strips, which can choose between XLR and jack in the input section. Phantom power for condenser operation can be globally activated for the two microphone channels via a push switch. Above the input sensitivity controls, there are two pushbuttons that can be used to activate the subsonic filter on the one hand and to set the input sensitivity for line operation (guitar preamp) on the other. By means of the gain control, the input signal can be lowered by fifteen db or raised by 45 db, as desired.

As always, Mackie's "U" marking provides a clear visual control of when the signal at hand is looped through in its pre-amplification without further processing. I can still remember well how about 25 years ago a colleague of mine appeared for the first time with a Mackie mixer to a small club gig and showed me the until then unknown U-knob. What at that time seemed to be rather annoying for my untrained eye and ear, has developed over the years into one of the best control options in terms of preamplification for me.

In order to keep the mixer as small as possible in terms of its dimensions, Mackie has focused on a two-band equalizer. The shelving equalizers have their center frequencies at 12 kilo Hertz for the treble range, and 80 Hertz for the bass range respectively. With both equalizers, you can set a gain plus / minus 15 db. The respective volume of the channel is adjusted via rotary controls. A push button switch, which is located between the two channels one and two, ensures the possibility to convert the two mono channels to a stereo channel with a right / left split.

Channels three and four are combined into one stereo channel. The supplied signal is applied via two optionally balanced or unbalanced jack sockets. A preselection of the preamplification by means of a gain control is not possible. Preferably instruments with a high line level will be connected here, such as keyboards or MP3 peripherals.

Above the input jacks, the output signals of the mixer are available in the form of jack sockets, also optionally in balanced or unbalanced signal routing. A total of four RCA jacks can be used to route external devices such as an MP3 player or a cassette recorder to or from the mixer. A standard headphone 6.35 millimeter stereo jack is located on the right side of the unit. The headphone volume can be fixed via a separate control.

Two LED chains provide information about the final level of the output signal by means of eight LEDs each. A small green LED provides information about whether the device is switched on. Four small rubber feet on the bottom of the course give sufficient grip on a flat surface. Via three small holes, the mixer can also be mounted on a microphone stand. With such housing dimensions, it is of course no longer possible to accommodate the transformer in the housing, so the 402 is powered by an external power supply. The external power supply is connected to the housing via a three-pin plug and supplies an operating voltage of 18.5 volts times two with a power consumption of 18 watts. The power supply is attached with a slightly hooky snap closure, which snaps into place on the case.

Practice:

Right from the start, I was of course mainly interested in whether the 402 variant from the VLZ series could also maintain the high sonic standards known from the other products in this line. I myself have been working with a 1202 mixer from the VLZ series for many years and have come to appreciate the sound of the preamp and filters in particular. I was also very interested to see if the missing midrange filter, which otherwise intervenes at 2.5 kilohertz with a tasteful Q-factor, would not be a problem.

The mixer announces its operating state with a quiet power-on crackle. Right at the beginning, the gain controls were subjected to an intensive test. An even signal boost and the mentioned quality of the preamplifiers were fortunately found to be the same as with the big brothers of the series. Even with the small 402 series, the preamps are characterized by generating a soft saturation above the 0 db limit. Slight peaks up to plus fifteen db are driven good-naturedly into the compression and are responsible for a pleasantly increasing compression of the signal. The channel volume controls, which are designed as rotary knobs, complete an even control path up to plus 12 db.

The equalizers do a good-natured and unspectacular job in their frequency range, but there is quite a large frequency gap in the midrange, which can't be readjusted. This should be taken into account when working and a balanced midrange signal should be fed in. Similar to a HiFi amplifier, one can only influence the high and low frequency range of the 402 in its coloring, real sound bending, as it is guaranteed in the higher class, can not be accomplished with this two-band equalizer, as expected.

Conclusion:

Mackie delivers with its 402 VLZ3 mixer a miniature mixer, which advances exactly into a gap that needs to be filled in many situations. Compact dimensions, high-quality basic sound and a decent finish make the product an optimal working device, where fast handling and easiest transport are important criteria. A highly recommendable device.

Additional Informations:

Company Report: Mackie Audio
Introduction: Mackie Audio is a well-established audio equipment manufacturer that specializes in producing a wide range of professional audio gear, including mixers, monitors, loudspeakers, and studio recording equipment. With a strong reputation for delivering high-quality products at affordable prices, Mackie Audio has become a trusted name in the audio industry. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of Mackie Audio, including its history, product offerings, technologies, market position, and future prospects.

History: Mackie Audio was founded in 1988 by Greg Mackie and Peter Watts, two industry veterans with extensive experience in the audio engineering and manufacturing sectors. The company started with a simple vision: to create professional audio equipment that was both affordable and accessible to a wide range of users. Through their innovative designs and commitment to quality, Mackie Audio quickly gained recognition and became a leading brand in the pro audio market.

Products and Technologies: Mackie Audio offers a diverse range of audio products designed to meet the needs of musicians, sound engineers, and recording studios. The company's product line includes analog and digital mixers, studio monitors, portable PA systems, audio interfaces, and more. One of Mackie Audio's notable product lines is the ProFX series, which comprises compact mixers with advanced features such as built-in effects, USB recording, and intuitive controls.

Mackie Audio is also renowned for its high-performance studio monitors. The HR and XR series of studio monitors are widely praised for their accurate sound reproduction and robust build quality. These monitors incorporate innovative technologies such as logarithmic waveguides, advanced transducer designs, and acoustic room correction features, ensuring precise and reliable audio monitoring in professional recording environments.

Furthermore, Mackie Audio has embraced the digital revolution in audio production by offering a range of digital mixers and audio interfaces. The DL and Onyx series feature intuitive touchscreens, wireless control capabilities, and extensive connectivity options, providing users with a flexible and efficient workflow in both live sound and studio settings.
Market Position: Mackie Audio has established a strong market position as a trusted and reliable brand in the pro audio industry. Its products are widely recognized for their combination of affordability, performance, and user-friendly design. Mackie Audio has successfully catered to the needs of various customer segments, including musicians, live sound engineers, and recording studios.

The company's commitment to quality and value has earned it a loyal customer base. Mackie Audio's products are used by professionals at all levels, from home studio owners to touring musicians and major recording studios. Additionally, Mackie Audio has built strategic partnerships with major distributors, retailers, and rental companies worldwide, ensuring widespread availability of its products and contributing to its market success.
Innovation and Research: Mackie Audio has consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovation and research, striving to stay at the forefront of audio technology. The company invests in product development and actively engages with customers and industry professionals to gather feedback and identify emerging trends.

Mackie Audio has been quick to adopt new technologies and integrate them into its product offerings. For instance, the company embraced the shift towards digital audio by introducing digital mixers and audio interfaces that leverage the power of digital signal processing. Mackie Audio also focuses on improving user interfaces, workflow efficiency, and connectivity options to provide seamless integration with other audio devices and software.

Future Prospects: Looking ahead, Mackie Audio is well-positioned for continued success in the competitive pro audio market. The company's commitment to offering high-quality products at affordable prices appeals to a broad customer base, including professional users and enthusiasts. With the increasing demand for audio equipment in various industries, including live sound, music production, podcasting, and broadcasting, Mackie Audio stands to benefit from these market opportunities.

Furthermore, Mackie Audio's ability to adapt to emerging technologies and customer needs will be crucial to its future prospects. By continuing to innovate and deliver products that address evolving industry trends, Mackie Audio can further solidify its position as a leading provider of audio equipment.

Conclusion: Mackie Audio has proven itself as a reputable and reliable audio equipment manufacturer with a strong market presence. Its commitment to delivering high-quality products at affordable prices, combined with a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, has contributed to its success in the pro audio industry. With a diverse range of products, strategic partnerships, and a customer-centric approach, Mackie Audio is well-positioned to thrive in the evolving audio market and continue to meet the needs of audio professionals and enthusiasts worldwide.

TEST: MÄAG PREQ2

 There are products that immediately remind you of a manufacturer due to their appearance or color scheme, which is what happened to me with the MÄAG PREQ2 that I was testing, which immediately reminded me of earlier Midas products with its "Villa Kunterbunt" color scheme. Red, yellow, green, blue and black on a two-tone blue background revive the seventies. To what extent the two-channel preamp with EQ, which is manufactured with 1 U in the USA and is suitable for recording and mixing functions, justifies its ambitious retail price of 3,399, - €, this test will show.

The concept of the MÄAG PREQ2

Mäag Audio may well be a household name to specialists in the genre, but for most, the company launched by Cliff Mäag will likely represent uncharted territory. The unique selling point for Mäag Audio is once again the very popular Air Band Shelving Equalizer, which was first introduced in 1993 with the NTI EQ3 and is also built into the MÄAG PREQ2. The MÄAG PREQ2 is largely based on the Stereo Mastering EQ4M, also from Mäag Audio, which enjoys an excellent reputation in the scene, with its range of functions, specifications and performance features.

The PREQ2's two matched channels handle either line or mic signal levels, with separate line-level input and mic XLR connectors on the rear panel. The rear panel also features XLR output connectors for each channel and an IEC on/off/fuse power switch. A look inside the solid steel chassis, which due to its construction still manages to weigh 4 kg, reveals plenty of Wima capacitors, two large Mäag Audio MA02 transformers with nickel cores and a flat toroidal transformer. The construction is very neatly arranged on a single PCB, using mainly surface mount devices. There are THAT Corp. line-input receivers and line drivers (op amps), and three regulators with three connections each, one for 48-volt phantom power and two for the 18-volt ± rails, all fitted with suitable heat sinks.

The MÄAG PREQ2 microphone preamplifier section delivers up to 71 dB of total gain through a discrete Class-A (FET) transistor preamplifier, which operates with +27 dBu of headroom and a noise floor of -128 dB. Two optimized gain ranges are selectable on the front panel, +20 dB to +42 dB and +42 to +71 dB, with the +25 dB gain switch on the front panel. The maximum microphone input level without using the 20 dB attenuator is +8 dB. The microphone input section also features front-panel switches for +48-volt phantom power, -20-dB attenuator pad, +25-dB gain, a green signal LED, +26-dBu peak LEDs, and a phase switch. Microphone gain is continuously adjustable with a single, large red gain control.

The line switch on the front panel switches the XLR line input connectors on the rear panel instead of the mic preamp. It is possible to keep both mic and line level sources connected to the PREQ2 at all times and switch each channel separately. This allows you to use one channel as a mic preamp and the other as a line level amp to record another instrument at the same time.

Also in the mic input section are 1/4-inch TS jacks for high-impedance instrument inputs, with a 1/4-inch instrument mic thru jack. The Thru jack simultaneously provides an isolated, buffered output of the channel's instrument input signal or XLR mic input with a set gain of +34 dB. This is an unbalanced signal for running a long line out to a guitar amp in the studio for live reamping, for example, or for using a stomp pedal effect with the PREQ2. When the Instrument Input TS jack is connected, the MÄAG PREQ2 automatically detects the circuit to route the unbalanced 1/4-inch input signal to the microphone input transformer. This circuit also prevents the 48 volt phantom power from reaching the 1/4 inch or XLR line input even if it is already switched on.

The EQ section

The Mäag Audio PREQ2 has a triple filter section whose layout and controls are identical for both channels. After the microphone input section, the first control is a high-pass filter with 12 dB/octave. Here you can select the frequency range from 20 Hz to 200 Hz via a very fine grid. The MÄAG PREQ2 has only one classic bass control, which works only as a booster with 6 dB / octave and processes as a bandpass the frequencies 10 Hz (called SUB), 40 Hz, 65 Hz, 100 Hz, 125 Hz and 165 Hz. To what extent one can still speak of bandpass at 10 Hz is another matter. The maximum boost is +10 dB.

The treble range is covered by the legendary AIR BAND, which also allows a boost function of up to +10 dB as a shelving filter and is divided into the ranges 2.5 kHz, 5 kHz, 10 kHz, 15 kHz, 20 kHz and 40 kHz.


The MÄAG PREQ2 in practice

Before I go into the sound of the MÄAG PREQ2, one should first consider the special feature of the product, which is undoubtedly to be found in the use of the signal branching from the first to the second channel. Here, especially reamping for guitar recordings and the integration of pedal effects, for example, for vocal recordings can be integrated by parallel operation of the two channels. The special feature is not only the adoption of the otherwise usual D.I. box functions, but also the fact that the second channel has a complete tone control if required. The combination of the two channels offers a very large variation possibility of the different sounds, especially later in the mix.

By the way, the best distorted FX sounds for vocals are still made by an analog guitar amp or its colleagues from the pedal front, which you should gladly check once in an A/B comparison with the corresponding plugins. What is very interesting especially when using FX pedals on the vocals for the later live area, if you record effects, whatever kind, in pedal form, you can easily take these effects later on a pedalboard with you to the show and use the sound there again. What singer doesn't know the problem of being completely dependent on the FOH, hoping to reproduce the FX sound created in the studio as authentically as possible at the right time.

As always with reamping, it is important to keep an eye on the output level, especially with extensive active signal processing as is the case here. The inputs of a guitar amp are designed for the very low-level signals of an electric guitar, which means that unconsciously "blowing" the amp may generate an increase in voluminosity at first glance, but on closer listening it also raises the ambient noise and massively impairs the transparency of the sound. From there, eyes away from the LED chain and trust only on the ears.

 What might be worth considering for stationary use would be an additional / alternative possibility to move the jack sockets to the back of the MÄAG PREQ2 and to integrate them into the internal cabling via a patchbay. Especially with high-quality cables, a mostly massive jack plug is always part of the scope of supply, which in combination with the corresponding cable generates quite a mess on the front panel, depending on the rack setup.

Now then, what (doesn't) catch my eye during commissioning is a status LED. Unfortunately, the only way to tell if the MÄAG PREQ2 is powered or not is to activate a push button switch. What is hidden behind this layout is unfortunately not clear to me, I would have liked to see a corresponding display. However, if you apply the first signals, you immediately hear why Mäag Audio enjoys such a good reputation among specialists.

First of all, the preamp sounds completely neutral over the entire control range in the best sense. In addition, even large dynamic jumps or massive bass load do not cause it to sweat at any time, the very large headroom cushions all currents almost calmly and does not drive into any form of saturation at any time. It is interesting that the MÄAG PREQ2 extends its function as a microphone preamplifier by a very wide range of applications, despite its only two-band tone control. Of course, the sound shaping possibilities cannot be compared with a multi-band EQ, but these are also not the tasks of the product.

Both in reamp mode as well as in the classic catch-up amplifier function, the two bands convince with an absolutely non-coloring approach, whereby the AIR band indeed offers a very finely resolving treble range when required, which has both assertive mids as well as finely purring highs on offer, depending on the frequency range. An all-around convincing preamp, which also scores with an excellent sound.


Conclusion

With the MÄAG PREQ2 Dual-Channel Strip, the American manufacturer has a top-class recording / mixing channel in its portfolio. In its reamp function it can indeed be described as unrivaled, especially since it is also convincing in classic two-channel operation.

Definitely test it once.

Additional Informations:

Company Report: MÄAG Audio
Introduction: MÄAG Audio is a renowned audio equipment manufacturer that specializes in developing high-quality audio processors, equalizers, and preamplifiers. The company has gained a stellar reputation in the professional audio industry for its innovative designs and superior sound quality. This report provides an in-depth analysis of MÄAG Audio, including its history, products, technologies, market position, and future prospects.

History: MÄAG Audio was founded in 2010 by Cliff Maag, a highly experienced audio engineer and designer. Cliff Maag's passion for audio processing led him to establish the company with the vision of creating innovative, high-performance audio gear. With his extensive industry knowledge and dedication to excellence, MÄAG Audio quickly gained recognition and carved out a niche for itself in the market.

Products and Technologies: MÄAG Audio offers a wide range of cutting-edge audio equipment designed to meet the needs of professional recording studios, live sound engineers, and musicians. The company is best known for its signature product, the MÄAG EQ4, a 500 Series equalizer module that combines vintage tone with modern precision. The EQ4 features the renowned Air Band® technology, which enhances the high-frequency spectrum, resulting in a unique and open sound.

In addition to the EQ4, MÄAG Audio has expanded its product line to include other notable offerings such as the MÄAG EQ2, PREQ4, and MAGNUM-K. These products exemplify the company's commitment to delivering exceptional sound quality, intuitive user interfaces, and robust build quality. MÄAG Audio's innovative designs and meticulous attention to detail have made their gear highly sought after by audio professionals worldwide.

Market Position: MÄAG Audio has established a strong presence in the professional audio market, positioning itself as a leader in the field of equalization and audio processing. The company's products are widely acclaimed for their transparency, musicality, and versatility, making them suitable for a diverse range of applications, including music production, broadcasting, post-production, and live sound reinforcement.

MÄAG Audio has successfully built strategic partnerships with renowned recording studios, live sound venues, and audio professionals. Their client list includes Grammy-winning engineers, top-tier music producers, and influential artists who rely on MÄAG Audio's gear to achieve exceptional sound quality in their work. This extensive network of satisfied customers has contributed to the company's growth and solidified its position as a trusted industry leader.

Innovation and Research: MÄAG Audio places a strong emphasis on research and development to stay at the forefront of audio technology. The company's team of experienced engineers continuously explores new concepts, designs, and manufacturing techniques to push the boundaries of audio processing. By leveraging the latest advancements in circuitry and digital signal processing, MÄAG Audio consistently introduces innovative products that meet the evolving needs of the audio industry.

MÄAG Audio's commitment to innovation is further exemplified by its involvement in industry conferences, trade shows, and collaborations with other audio professionals and manufacturers. By actively engaging with the audio community, the company remains responsive to market trends and customer feedback, ensuring that its products remain relevant and competitive.
Future Prospects: Looking ahead, MÄAG Audio is poised for continued success and growth in the professional audio industry. The company's unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional sound quality and innovative designs positions it favorably in an increasingly competitive market. With the rapid advancements in audio technology and the growing demand for high-quality audio gear, MÄAG Audio is well-positioned to capitalize on these opportunities and expand its product offerings.

Furthermore, MÄAG Audio's dedication to customer satisfaction, evidenced by its responsive customer support and commitment to product reliability, will contribute to the company's ongoing success. By fostering strong relationships with its customers and maintaining a reputation for excellence, MÄAG Audio can expect to maintain its market leadership and continue to be a go-to choice for audio professionals worldwide.

Conclusion: MÄAG Audio has firmly established itself as a prominent player in the professional audio industry, renowned for its innovative designs, superior sound quality, and commitment to customer satisfaction. With a strong product lineup, strategic partnerships, and a forward-thinking approach to technology, MÄAG Audio is well-positioned to thrive in the ever-evolving audio market. As the company continues to push the boundaries of audio processing, we can expect MÄAG Audio to maintain its status as a leader in the field and contribute to the advancement of audio technology as a whole.

TEST: M-Audio M3-8

 How many speakers does a nearfield monitor have? Well, given the overwhelming number of protagonists, the number two will probably cross most readers' lips. The reasons are manifold, size, weight, price and phase fidelity are only a few arguments that move the typical studio owner to this choice. On the other hand, there has been an increasing countermovement in recent times that pays homage to the original 3-way hi-fi speaker and wants to capture the crossover frequencies with an additional midrange driver, which are sometimes lost in the crossover of a 2-way system. In addition, a lower load is applied to the individual drivers, since their efficiency extends to a narrower frequency range.

With the M-Audio M3-8, the American company is preparing to put a foot in the comparatively narrow occupied terrain. The objective is to compensate for the above-mentioned disadvantages, while focusing on the design-related strengths.  The target group is once again the ambitious budget studio owner, who is looking for the next higher performance class in the near-field monitor range, due to the low retail price of less than 300, - € due to the Chinese production.


Construction

Let's first take a look at the external values of the monitor. With its almost 13 kilogram combat weight and dimensions of 268 mm x 434 mm x 285 mm, wall mounting is strongly discouraged. In addition to a decent downward torque, you would also inevitably be confronted with corresponding booming frequencies in the bass range due to the bass reflex port on the back. A stand mounting is preferable in any case, whereby in my opinion a distance of more than 1.50 meters between the speaker and the ear cup can be aimed for.

At first glance, the M-Audio M3-8 appears to be a 2-way solution, but on closer inspection, the upper speaker section turns out to be a coaxial construction of a 5-inch Kevlar midrange driver along with a 1-inch tweeter silk dome, which were arranged on top of each other in their axis. In principle, this system not only saves space, but also has the advantage of minimizing the differences in running times between the individual speakers. A Kevlar version of 8 inches is also used as the bass speaker. The crossover frequencies of the 3 ranges are specified with 450, respectively 3900 Hertz, whereby the individual speakers with 150 watts (RMS) in the bass range and 35 watts (RMS) each in the midrange and treble range have sufficiently dimensioned power outputs in Class A/B technology.

Optically one decided in the house M-Audio in contrast to the generally popular "black-as-black-can" variant of the competition for a front panel in the alemannisch coined "oak rustic in mahogany stained", whereby the result comes off clearly better than it the smug remark suggests. To avoid edge reflections, all four front panel corners were discreetly beveled towards the back. The rest of the case was made of the ever-popular medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and covered with black plastic. Four small rubber feet were glued underneath the case, which don't decouple the case from the base, but protect the underside from scratches. The workmanship of the case is impeccable in every respect.

On the rear, the M-Audio M3-8 pleasantly surprises with a diverse selection of filters to adapt the sound result to the given room parameters as practically as possible. In addition to a volume control, the 100 Hz, 1 kHz and 10 kHz ranges have a separate level control, each of which allows for a boost or cut of 6 dB in the frequency range used. All potentiometers are gridded, which facilitates a uniform adjustment in stereo operation immensely. In addition, a high-pass filter can be activated at 60 or 80 Hertz, which, however, is more suitable for an additional subwoofer operation than for resonance control. All equalizers can be switched off via a summing switch if necessary.

In terms of connection options, the M-Audio M3-8 also covers the three important areas of XLR balanced, TSR balanced and RCA unbalanced, ensuring access to almost any analog source. As expected, to prevent the sensitive components from being accidentally sent skyward in the heat of the moment, the most important protection circuits have been installed on the M-Audio M3-8, which include an infrasonic filter, overheating protection and a limiter. Good thing!


Practice

After we have placed the monitors in a proper stereo triangle at a distance of about 1.70 meters from the ear, the actual test can begin. In order to get an unbiased impression, we start with completely deactivated filters. The first impression turns out to be an expandable basic framework, even though my subjective preferences were not directly hit, as expected. Thus, the bass range convinces with a strong stroke due to the large power amp potential, but at the same time it is comparatively coarse in terms of fine detail. The Kevlar coating will have a certain share, which ensures high power handling due to its increased stiffness, but at the same time is also responsible for the above-mentioned effect.

The midrange driver in coaxial interaction with the tweeter is somewhat different from the woofer in terms of depth staggering due to its design and initially requires the listener to listen around a bit in terms of spatial resolution. However, once you get used to the sound impression, the two components, which are rather discreet overall, are very pleasant.

In the second part, we now access the filters to adjust the frequency response of the monitor to our personal habits. Personally, I was most convinced by a discreet lowering of the basses, while at the same time raising the mids and trebles. The high-pass filter, on the other hand, was not activated due to the subwoofer-less mode. Lo and behold, the initially unspectacular basic sound of the system changed after a discreet filter adjustment to a clearly more intensive sound reproduction, whereby even difficult material in the form of classical recordings did not experience any deformations due to the filter application.

As expected, the coaxial midrange/tweeter solution results in a very good low frequency response, even though the stereo triangle is much more limited in its lateral expansion than with comparable standard solutions. Everyone has to find out for themselves to what extent these advantages and disadvantages affect their personal workflow.

For my part, I very often work with guitar-heavy productions, which tend to lose some of their presence in the crossover cut with 2-way solutions. In this case, one tends to overemphasize the high-mid range, which in the end runs the risk of drifting too much into the "saw" range. This is where the M-Audio M3-8 is particularly convincing, since especially in the dreaded "midrange board" between 1 - 3 kHz no crossover frequency can register a dip.


Conclusion

With the M-Audio M3-8, the American manufacturer has a coaxial 3-way system in the program, which knows how to convince. Visually appealing and with a high maximum level, the near field monitor plays out its strengths due to the 2 crossover points, especially with midrange-oriented music. Due to comprehensive filter technology, it is also possible to optimize the preferred listening habits over three frequency ranges, if required.

A good all-rounder, which knows how to shine with extensive features.

Additional informations:

Audio Interfaces: Unlocking the World of Professional Audio Recording

Introduction:
Audio interfaces have revolutionized the landscape of professional audio recording, enabling musicians, producers, and audio engineers to capture high-quality sound and bring their creative visions to life. This comprehensive report delves into the world of audio interfaces, exploring their purpose, functionality, key features, types, connectivity options, and their significance in modern music production.

    Purpose and Functionality:
    An audio interface serves as the bridge between analog and digital audio worlds. It converts analog audio signals, such as those from microphones and instruments, into digital data that can be processed and recorded by a computer or digital audio workstation (DAW). Conversely, it converts digital audio data back into analog signals for playback through speakers or headphones. Audio interfaces ensure accurate signal conversion, low-latency performance, and provide essential features like preamps, phantom power, and monitor control.

    Key Features of Audio Interfaces:
    a. Preamps: Audio interfaces often include preamplifiers (preamps) that amplify weak analog signals from microphones or instruments, bringing them to line level for optimal recording quality.
    b. Phantom Power: Many interfaces provide phantom power (+48V) to power condenser microphones, which require it for proper operation.
    c. Input and Output Options: Audio interfaces offer a variety of input and output options, including XLR, 1/4" TRS, and RCA connectors, allowing users to connect microphones, instruments, headphones, and studio monitors.
    d. Sample Rate and Bit Depth: Interfaces support different sample rates (e.g., 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 96kHz) and bit depths (e.g., 16-bit, 24-bit), determining the resolution and fidelity of the recorded audio.
    e. Direct Monitoring: This feature allows users to monitor audio signals with near-zero latency directly from the interface, bypassing the computer's processing.

    Types of Audio Interfaces:
    a. USB Audio Interfaces: These interfaces connect to the computer via USB, making them widely compatible and convenient for home studios and portable setups.
    b. Thunderbolt Interfaces: Thunderbolt interfaces offer high-speed connectivity for low-latency recording and playback, ideal for professional studios and demanding applications.
    c. PCIe Interfaces: These interfaces connect directly to a computer's motherboard via a PCIe slot, providing extremely low-latency performance and high channel counts for professional studios.
    d. FireWire Interfaces: Although less common now, FireWire interfaces offer reliable connectivity and low-latency performance, especially for older systems.

    Connectivity Options:
    Audio interfaces provide a range of connectivity options to accommodate different recording setups and needs. They may include multiple inputs and outputs, MIDI ports for connecting external devices, digital connections like ADAT or S/PDIF, and headphone outputs with individual volume control. Some advanced interfaces offer network audio connectivity, such as Dante or AVB, for seamless integration with larger audio networks.

    Significance in Modern Music Production:
    Audio interfaces play a crucial role in modern music production, enabling musicians and producers to capture professional-grade recordings in their home studios. With the availability of affordable and high-quality interfaces, the barrier to entry for recording and producing music has significantly lowered. Audio interfaces empower artists to take control of their creative process, capturing their performances with precision, and achieving studio-quality sound in their productions.

    Considerations When Choosing an Audio Interface:
    When selecting an audio interface, several factors should be considered:
    a. Input and Output Requirements: Determine the number of simultaneous inputs and outputs required for your recording setup.
    b. Preamp Quality: Consider the quality and transparency of the preamps, as they significantly impact the recorded sound.
    c. Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with your computer's operating system and connection ports.
    d. Latency Performance: Look for interfaces with low-latency performance to minimize delays during recording and monitoring.
    e. Budget: Set a budget and consider the features and quality that align with your recording needs.

Conclusion:
Audio interfaces have become indispensable tools for musicians, producers, and audio engineers, unlocking the potential of professional audio recording in both home and professional studio environments. With their ability to convert analog signals into pristine digital audio, provide essential features, and facilitate seamless connectivity, audio interfaces have democratized music production and empowered countless artists to create high-quality recordings. As technology advances, audio interfaces continue to evolve, delivering improved performance, expanded connectivity options, and innovative features, further shaping the future of audio recording and production.