AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Mackie Analogue mixers 2026
The top pick is Mackie ProFX10v3 10-Channel Effects Mixer ($255). Mackie ProFX6v3 6-Channel Effects Mixer gives you the most for the money at $190. Mackie 1604VLZ4 16-Channel Mic / Line Mixer leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 20 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 18, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
-
Mackie ProFX10v3 10-Channel Effects Mixer
ProFX10v3 · Mackie
76 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight2.2 kg
The ProFX10v3 is a really solid entry-level mixer. It's perfect for smaller bands, singer-songwriters, or anyone needing a compact, affordable solution for live sound or basic recording – the USB interface is a big plus. Don't expect studio-grade performance, but it delivers a lot of bang for your buck.
Pros
- Solid build quality for the price, feels surprisingly robust.
- The single-knob compressors are genuinely useful and intuitive.
- USB interface is clean and functional for basic recording.
Cons
- EQ isn't exceptionally detailed; lacks a mid sweep.
- Phantom power can be a bit noisy with certain mics.
-
Mackie ProFX12v3 12-Channel Effects Mixer
ProFX12v3 · Mackie
69 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight3.6 kg
The ProFX12v3 is a solid, budget-friendly option for smaller bands, singer-songwriters, or anyone needing a compact and versatile mixer. It's got a clean, functional sound, and the built-in effects are a nice bonus for adding some texture. Perfect for live sound reinforcement and basic recording setups where ultimate sonic purity isn’t the top priority.
Pros
- Solid build quality for the price point; feels surprisingly robust.
- The single-knob compressors are genuinely useful and easy to dial in.
- GigFX effects are decent enough for basic gigs and rehearsals.
Cons
- EQ isn’t the most detailed – lacks a mid sweep for precise tone shaping.
- Phantom power can be a little noisy with some condenser mics.
75AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$366 now$366€325 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight1.2 kg
The ProFX6v3 is a surprisingly capable little mixer. It's a great entry point for singer-songwriters, small bands, or anyone needing a basic, affordable live sound solution with a built-in effects processor and USB interface – just don’t expect miracles from the EQ.
Pros
- Solid build quality for the price point; feels surprisingly robust.
- Mackie's GigFX effects are genuinely usable and add value.
- The USB interface is functional and simplifies recording workflows.
Cons
- EQ is limited to just two bands – lacks detailed tonal shaping.
- Line inputs could benefit from higher headroom for cleaner operation.
-
- Weight6.9 kg
The ProFX16v3 is a workhorse mixer – well-built and packed with features for the budget-conscious. It's ideal for smaller bands, wedding DJs, or anyone needing a reliable, compact mixer with a built-in effects unit and basic USB recording. Don't expect pristine studio sound, but it's a solid performer for live gigs.
Pros
- Solid build quality with a metal chassis; feels robust for the price.
- The single-knob compressors offer surprisingly usable gain reduction quickly.
- GigFX effects are decent, providing a usable palette for live sound.
Cons
- EQ isn’t the most transparent; can introduce some coloration.
- Limited headroom at higher gain levels; might struggle with very loud bands.
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$550 now$550€489 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Mackie 1642VLZ4 16-Channel Mic / Line Mixer
1642 VLZ4 · Mackie
38 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight8.3 kg
The Mackie 1642 VLZ4 is a workhorse mixer, perfect for smaller bands, recording studios, or live sound reinforcement where budget is a consideration. It's got a solid feature set and a decent sound, though don't expect studio-grade pristine clarity. A reliable option for gigging musicians and project studios.
Pros
- Onyx preamps deliver surprisingly clean and low-noise performance
- Solid build quality for a mixer in this price range - feels robust
- Subgrouping provides flexible routing for complex mixes
Cons
- EQ can be a bit muddy, lacking the clarity of higher-end consoles
- Limited headroom – pushing it hard reveals noticeable distortion
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$760 now$760€675 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight9 kg
The ProFX22v3 is a solid workhorse mixer – a great all-rounder for smaller bands, rehearsal spaces, or even mobile DJs needing a compact, feature-rich solution. It's surprisingly capable for its price point, offering a good balance of channels, effects, and USB connectivity. Just be mindful of headroom when you're really loading it up.
Pros
- Solid build quality; feels robust for a mixer in this class.
- The variable midrange EQ is genuinely useful for shaping vocals.
- GigFX effects are surprisingly decent, adding versatility on a budget.
Cons
- Limited headroom at higher channel counts; can get noisy pushing it.
- EQ isn’t the most transparent; coloration is noticeable.
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$785 now$785€698 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Mackie 1402VLZ4 14-Channel Mic / Line Mixer
1402 VLZ4 · Mackie
38 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight4.5 kg
The 1402 VLZ4 is a solid, affordable workhorse for smaller bands, rehearsal spaces, or basic PA needs. Mackie's Onyx preamps punch above their weight class, and the layout is practical for quick adjustments. It’s a reliable mixer when you need clean signal paths without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Onyx preamps deliver surprisingly clean gain for the price.
- Solid build quality; feels robust for a mixer in this class.
- Ergonomic layout with high-contrast controls aids quick operation.
Cons
- EQ isn't the most detailed or musical; lacks finesse.
- Limited headroom at higher gain settings can introduce noise.
66AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$426 now$426€379 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Mackie 1604VLZ4 16-Channel Mic / Line Mixer
1604 VLZ4 · Mackie
40 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight9.1 kg
The 1604 VLZ4 is a workhorse mixer – a classic for a reason. It's a great choice for smaller bands, recording projects, or anyone needing a reliable, affordable solution with clean preamps. It’s built tough and sounds surprisingly good for its class.
Pros
- Onyx preamps deliver clean, punchy gain with low noise
- Solid build quality; feels robust for gigging and studio use
- Comprehensive I/O with ample aux sends for monitor mixes
Cons
- EQ isn't the most detailed or musical; lacks finesse
- No built-in effects; relies on external processing
66AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,012 now$1,012€899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight2.5 kg
The Mackie 802 VLZ4 is a solid, budget-friendly option for solo performers, duos, or small bands needing a simple, reliable mixer. Its Onyx preamps punch above their weight class, making it a great entry point into the Mackie ecosystem without breaking the bank. It's not a powerhouse, but for basic live sound or recording, it gets the job done.
Pros
- Onyx preamps deliver surprisingly clean, low-noise performance for the price.
- Compact size makes it ideal for small bands and mobile rigs.
- 3-band EQ offers basic tone shaping without excessive complexity.
Cons
- Limited I/O; expansion options are non-existent without external solutions.
- External power supply is a bit clunky and less convenient than internal.
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$224 now$224€199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Mackie ProFX10 GO Portable 10 Channel Mixer
ProFX10 GO · Mackie
36 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight2.7 kg
The ProFX10 GO is a clever little mixer, offering a surprising amount of functionality in a portable package. It's ideal for singer-songwriters, small bands, or anyone needing a self-contained recording and live sound solution – especially where power outlets are scarce. The onboard effects are a genuine bonus for the price point.
Pros
- Onyx preamps deliver clean, low-noise gain for vocals and instruments.
- Integrated GigFX unit offers usable effects without external processing.
- Battery power provides genuine portability for gigs and rehearsals.
Cons
- EQ is basic 3-band; lacks the precision for complex tonal shaping.
- Bluetooth connectivity adds convenience but can introduce latency in live use.
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$472 now$472€419 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 20 analogue mixers
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Mackie Mix12FX 12-Channel Compact Mixer with EffectsMix12FX · Mackie64Stable$144€128$144€128Check ↗
- 12
Mackie Mix8 8-Channel Compact MixerMix8 · Mackie62Stable$110€98$110€98Check ↗
- 13
Mackie Mix5 5-Channel Compact MixerMix5 · Mackie61Stable$77€68$77€68Check ↗
- 14
Mackie MOBILEMIX 8-Channel USB Digital MixerMobileMix · Mackie60Stable$240€213$240€213Check ↗
- 15
Mackie 1202VLZ4 12-Channel Mic / Line Mixer1202 VLZ4 · Mackie60Stable$258€229$258€229Check ↗
- 16
Mackie Onyx8 8-Channel Analog Mixer with Multitrack USBOnyx8 · Mackie60Stable$393€349$393€349Check ↗
- 17
Mackie Onyx16 16-Channel Analog Mixer with Multitrack USBOnyx16 · Mackie57Stable$697€619$697€619Check ↗
- 18
Mackie 402VLZ4 4-Channel Mic / Line Mixer402 VLZ4 · Mackie56Stable$145€129$145€129Check ↗
- 19
Mackie ProFX16v3 16-Channel Effects MixerProFX16v3 Case Bundle · Mackie43Stable$798€709$798€709Check ↗
- 20
Mackie ProFX10 GO Portable 10 Channel MixerProFX10 GO Case Bundle · Mackie39Stable$647€575$647€575Check ↗
Analogue mixers by the numbers
Measured across all 145 models we track, not a sample.
Median $393 — half of all analogue mixers here cost less.
median of 13 models · 4"–19"
median of 108 models · 0.85 kg–11.5 kg
How to choose the best analogue mixers
Preamp Character
That classic Mackie 'warmth' is a real thing, especially in older models like the 1604. It's not a pristine, sterile sound; it has a certain fullness and a slight compression that can be fantastic for vocals and guitars, but it might not be your go-to for super-clean, modern recordings. Newer models have tried to dial this in, but it's often less pronounced.
EQ
Mackie's 3- or 4-band EQ is simple, but surprisingly effective. It's not surgical precision, but it's got a broad, musical character. The mid-band is often where Mackie really shines - that fat midrange honk can really help instruments cut through the mix, especially in a live band setting where you're fighting for space.
Build Quality
Let's be honest, Mackie's build quality has fluctuated over the years. The older stuff (80s-early 2000s) is generally pretty solid, built like a tank. More recent models can feel a little plasticky, and the faders can be a point of failure if you're gigging regularly - treat them with respect.
Headroom
Mackie mixers are known for getting a little 'gritty' when pushed hard. While some might see this as a flaw, it can be a useful tool for adding character to drums or backing vocals. However, if you need pristine, clean headroom for critical tracking, you might want to look elsewhere.
Feature Set
Mackie's strength is in providing a good balance of features for the price. You'll generally get a decent number of aux sends, good routing options, and sometimes even built-in effects (which are often... serviceable, but not amazing). It's about getting the essentials without breaking the bank.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking at Mackie analogue mixers? Smart move. Mackie's been a workhorse in the live sound and recording world for decades, and for good reason. They offer a certain 'grunt' and a price point that's often hard to beat, but it's not all sunshine and roses - let's break down what makes them tick and which models are worth your hard-earned cash.
Don't expect audiophile-grade performance. Mackie mixers are about utility and getting the job done. Older models (1604, 2404) are often the sweet spot for price and character, but factor in potential maintenance.
Newer models prioritize features and a more 'modern' sound, but the build quality can be a gamble - read reviews carefully and be gentle with the controls.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 24 analogue mixers from the Thomann catalogue (of 145 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Are Mackie preamps any good for recording?
They're decent for adding warmth and character, especially for vocals and guitars. But if you're after pristine clarity, consider investing in higher-end preamps.
What's the deal with the 'vintage' Mackie sound?
Older models, particularly the 1604 and 2404, had a unique preamp design that imparts a certain warmth and subtle compression. It's a vibe that many engineers still seek out for its character.
Are Mackie mixers reliable for live gigs?
Generally, yes, especially the older models. But treat the faders and knobs with care, and be prepared to replace pots if they start to get noisy.
Do the built-in effects on Mackie mixers sound any good?
Let's just say they're there if you need them in a pinch. Don't expect studio-quality reverb or delay.
What's the difference between a 1604 and a 2404?
The 2404 simply has more channels (24 vs 16) and more routing options. The core preamp and EQ characteristics are largely the same.
