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(More customer reviews)While researching this unit I was surprised at the limited number of online reviews available. Perhaps that's because until recently I didn't even know this mixer existed - Mackie does not appear to be promoting this product line as heavily as its Onyx series of mixers and its well-known VLZ-Pro line. That's a shame, because this really is a wonderful mixer that adds new features not found on their older VLZ series while maintaining Mackie's high standards of product quality and durability. I have owned a Mackie 1402-VLZ mixer for many years, and it's been a versatile, reliable mixing tool throughout that time. But I've pined at times (mostly when mixing live performances) for the convenience of a mixer with on-board digital effects. The ProFX12 is perhaps the ideal small ensemble live performance mixer. The similarities to Mackie's VLZ series mixers are numerous - the input/output section and channel strips are very similar, providing immediate familiarity for anyone who's used a Mackie before. A key difference worth highlighting: the level set/solo function of the VLZ series has been replaced by individual level set LEDs on each channel input. I prefer setting pre-fader gain with the benefit of a multi-segment LED indicator, but the single, channel-specific LED indicators are nonetheless perfectly serviceable. The mic pre's on the ProFX mixers are not Mackie's highly vaunted XDR design found on their VLZ-Pro mixers, but they are clean, quiet, high quality mic pre's that will satisfy just about any live sound reinforcement or recording application (unless perhaps you're an engineer in a professional studio mixing the next New York Philharmonic performance for a 64bit, 192kHz audiophile recording). One feature missing from the ProFX mixers is individual channel outs - if you are doing multitrack recording and need this flexibility, you'll need to look elsewhere. Also gone is the VLZ-series' ALT 3-4 routing for the mute switches. I never once used this feature in all the years I have owned my 1402, so I doubt it's a deal-breaker for anyone pondering this purchase. The real prizes on this mixer are those new features missing from the VLZ designs: on-board effects, a graphic EQ, and (drum roll) USB connectivity. Mackie really did their homework on their RM 32-bit effects chip. Ten of the sixteen effects are reverbs, and they are uniformly warm, articulate, rich-sounding 'verbs that add wonderful ambience to your mix. The only effect 'editing' here is more or less, so you pick the room size and turn it up or down. One nice related feature is a footswitch for turning the effects on or off during live performance. (And if you need the added flexibility offered by an external effects unit, the effects send mix is mirrored on a mono FX send that can be coupled with a pair of stereo returns.) The graphic EQ is another nice addition that offers more sound sculpting tools than Mackie's very musical 3-band channel strip EQ knobs. And finally, the USB connectivity makes this a fully modern mixer that can plug as easily into your computer as it can into a pair of powered PA monitors. Traction3 software can be downloaded for free if you don't already own recording software.
This unit is made in China if that matters to you. My old Mackie was made in Woodenville, and Mackie took pride in that fact. I do wish this unit was US-made, but I'm afraid it's virtually impossible to find a mixer in this price range with these specs and features that is built domestically.
I'll never get rid of my 1402-VLZ, but it's probably going to collect a lot more dust in the coming years now that I own the ProFX12.
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The ProFX12 is the perfect choice for smaller performing acts, solo performers or for small venues that don't have the budget or space for a ton of outboard gear. The ProFX12 has everything needed to make your gig sound great and is really easy to operate. Plus, USB I/O lets you record the show or stream music straight from a laptop. The ProFX12 is loaded with six Mackie high-headroom, low-noise mic preamps, 3-band EQ, a built-in DI for direct connection of a guitar or bass, integrated "Gig-Ready" effects, precision 7-band GEQ and more. All the right tools, housed in an ultra-tough enclosure with additional impact-resistant sidecheeks, protecting your investment from the rigors of the road.
Mackie's ProFX SeriesOn-stage or off, the ProFX Series Compact Effects Mixers with USB offer the most complete and professional feature set in the compact effects mixers category. Mackie low-noise, high-headroom mic preamps ensure pristine signal while LED metering and 60mm faders on each channel keep levels in check. Sweeten the mix using the 3-band active EQ and integrated RMFX 32-bit processor, which offers an arsenal of 16 "Gig-Ready" effects. Easily tune mains and monitors with 7-band stereo graphic EQ and capture the mix or stream house music from a laptop using built-in USB I/O. Also, in true "Built-Like-A-Tank" tradition, protective ABS sidecheeks offer additional impact resistance to the already rugged solid steel chassis. It's everything you need to get the job done well, every single time. Simply professional--ProFX.
Live Sound ToolboxSmaller performing acts typically play in places that may not have an engineer on hand. In fact, someone from the band might have double-duty as "The Sound Guy" for the group. If you are reading this, chances are that's you. Let us pander to your obviously higher intellect… you are a professional and you need the tools to get the job done perfectly each and every show. High-headroom mic preamps with great-sounding effects, channel EQ, a built-in DI, plus precision GEQ to tune-up the room or monitor mix. Sounds good, right? The ProFX12 comes with all these features—it is truly the perfect live sound toolbox.
"Gig-Ready" RMFX EffectsThe all-new RMFX (Running Man FX) 32-bit effects processor brings "Gig Ready," useable effects to your mixes.Why scroll through hundreds of bizarre effects, like "ghost ambience?" Yeah, like anyone even knows what that means. Or how about winners like "delay+phaser2", which you'll never use in a million years. Those other mixers will leave your fingers raw from all the scrolling you have to do. The RMFX processor features 16 solid FX that are known for their utility and usability.Small, medium and large room reverbs with a mix of warm and bright characteristics puts your mix in the right space. Simple, rich choruses and an array of practical delays enable you to create professional mixes without requiring a two-hour sound check.Basically, we've delivered the choicest parts of a full rack of gear, right at your fingertips, that is easy to master, allowing you to look and sound really good at your next gig. Really, really good.
Record and Stream via USBWith all the right tools for the job, the ProFX12 allows you to create memorable mixes, but even with all those features, portability is paramount and you can't be burdened with lugging around additional equipment. No worries, integrated USB I/O takes the pain out of recording. Just connect the ProFX12 to a laptop, start up your included copy of Tracktion 3 Music Production Software (or almost any DAW software out there) and you can record the whole mix. You can even stream music from your laptop during breaks. Once you get home, record more tracks or use the ProFX12 to playback some tunes during your next party. Unless you're anti-social, don't have the right kind of place for a party or are just sick of buying food and beverages for everyone. In that case, you can play back whatever talk-radio show you listen to when alone.
Not only that, the innovative "USB Thru" switch allows for an impressive live/recording setup when using performance software like Ableton Live or Reason. When gigging, stream the output of your performance software (or iTunes, for that matter) into the ProFX12. Combine that signal with anything plugged into the mixer, and send the whole thing back to the computer for recording. Archiving your integrated live performances has never been easier!
Legendary Mackie DurabilityMackie is known for building mixers that are "Built-Like-A-Tank," and the ProFX12 is no exception. All of its tender bits are securely encased in a solid steel chassis. Not only that, the impact-resistant sidecheeks are made of ultra-tough ABS, adding extra protection where it is most likely to fall…not that you drop things.
Budget FriendlyThe ProFX Series Compact Effects Mixers strike the perfect balance. They offer all the right tools to get the job done well, sport the popular compact footprint that Mackie is known for, and are also the most budget-friendly of all the Mackie sound reinforcement mixers. Our competition either doesn't have the expansive feature set of the ProFX Series, or they simply will not survive the test of time. You are investing in your mixer and the ProFX will be there for you at every gig, ready to roll.
ProFX12 Features
Professional 12-channel Compact Mixer with onboard effects and USB I/O
6 low-noise, high-headroom Mackie mic preamps with easy LED metering
32-bit RMFX processor with 16 "Gig-Ready" reverbs, choruses and delays
Precision 7-band graphic EQ for tuning Mains or Monitors
USB I/O for recording shows and music playback via Mac or PC
4 full stereo channels plus extra stereo return for keyboards, external effects or stereo playback devices
60mm faders for input channels, returns and Main/Monitor masters
3-band active EQ (80Hz, 2.5kHz and 12kHz) on all channels
Hi-Z input for direct connection of guitar, bass and other instruments
Insert, 100Hz low cut filter, and 48V phantom power on all mic channels
Stereo RCA tape I/O with input level control
Headphone output with separate rotary level control
Balanced XLR and balanced/unbalanced 1/4-inch Main outputs
FX mute with remote control via footswitch
Break switch mutes all channels for music playback between sets
Built-like-a-tank steel chassis with rugged, yet stylish ABS sidecheeks
"Planet Earth" switching power supply for worldwide use
Includes Tracktion 3 Music Production Software for Mac or PC
What's in the BoxMackie ProFX12 Mixer, USB Cable, Power Supply, Software CD, User's Manual
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