4/6 channel mixer for pa and basic recording?

[Hizzoner]

Ok gents..I have read a bunch of threads here and have some ideas, but wondered if anyone had specific recommendations on a solid inexpensive(new or used) UNpowered mixer that has at least 2 XLR inputs, preferably with a few basic vocal effects?

I plan on using this mixer with a qsc power amp/monitors(have these) but no mixer yet for band practices(essentially just two mics)

I would LIKE to use it to plug into my macbook and record rehearsals to garageband..therefore it would need some sort of usb or firewire out...

Any ideas?

thanks

Mark

 

[billm67]

I have owned a fair number of the smaller mixers and I would say unless it is all you can afford to stay away from the Behringer and Alesis mixers. They work, but they are very cold sounding. The smaller Yamaha boards sound better and the Mackie ones are even more expensive, but worth it as the preamps sound better. I have a Soundcraft that I bought used that sounds very good compared to some of the others. I still have a Yamaha but it is a backup.

 

[T-Bird]

Hi.

Soundcraft and Yamaha are on the top of my list too.

Please stay away from cheapos, especially if You're recording.
The hiss and the horrible "EQ" strips will drive You crazy.

Pay attention to insert points, AUXes, outputs etc. rather than the effects.

Regards
Sam

 

[Hizzoner]

I like what I see from yamaha and mackie...

 

[modulusman]

Check out the Peavey PV series. I have a PV10 that is nice mixer for the money.

 

[Govier966]

Our bands setup is an allen heath mixer an a peavy pr 5 speaker we plan on recording the whole band through it so i will tell you how it went later this week.

 

[dano2726]

Take a look at a Mackie U420. It is out of production but I think you can still find them on evilbay. It is a small 4 channel board with firewire but all 1/4" inputs, no xlr's. I just bought one but haven't had the chance to use it yet so I can't comment on performance but it might be one you want to check out. I paid a whopping $175 for mine. Just my $.02

 

[acubass]

I've heard only good things about the pre's on the mackie onyx boards. Just as good if not better than the pre's on the digi 003

 

[Hizzoner]

thanks guys..good info

 

[modulusman]

I've heard only good things about the pre's on the mackie onyx boards. Just as good if not better than the pre's on the digi 003

From what I have been reading on the internet Mackie is in trouble. I would be leery of buying anything from them right now. That being said I have owned about a half dozen Mackie mixers over the years and all have been reliable. I currently own an onyx 1640 that I have had for about 5 years.