Mackie Music Mixer ONYX 820i User Manual

Premium 8-Channel Analog Mixer  
with Perkins EQ and FireWire  
O W N E R ’ S M A N U A L  
1
2
3-4  
AUX SEND  
AUX RETURN  
MAIN OUT  
TAPE  
OUT  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
1
2
IN  
L
L
L
1
2
(MONO)  
R
R
R
INSERT  
INSERT  
L
(MONO)  
LINE IN 5-6  
LINE IN 7-8  
L
BAL/UNBAL  
1
BAL/UNBAL  
2
BAL/UNBAL  
R
L
LINE  
LINE  
(MONO)  
(MONO)  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
LINE  
HI Z  
LINE  
HI Z  
+
-10dB  
4dB  
LINE  
-
-
R
R
48V  
48V  
48V  
PREMIUM ANALOG MIXER w/ PERKINS EQ  
&
FIREWIRE  
CTRL ROOM/PHONES  
30  
30  
30  
U
U
U
U
0dB=0dBu  
SOURCE  
20  
U
40  
60  
20  
U
40  
60  
40  
60  
20  
U
MIC  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
L
R
GAIN  
CLIP  
20  
15  
10  
6
-20dB +40dB  
-20dB +40dB  
-20dB +20dB  
-20dB +20dB  
MAIN MIX  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
INPUT  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
LINE  
FW 1-2  
TAPE  
3
U
U
U
U
U
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
0
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
-
FW 1-2  
ALT 3 4  
2
LEVEL  
SET  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
4
1k  
1k  
U
7
HIGH  
MID  
FREQ  
FREQ  
U
U
U
U
10  
20  
30  
ASSIGN TO  
MAIN MIX  
2.5KHz  
100  
8k  
100  
8k  
-15  
+15  
+15  
+15  
MID  
MID  
U
U
U
2.5kHz  
2.5kHz  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
LOW  
MID  
MID  
MID  
400Hz  
O O  
O O  
MAX  
MAX  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
RUDE  
SOLO  
CONTROL  
ROOM  
PHONES  
U
U
U
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
AUX MASTER  
-15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
SEND  
RETURN  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
PRE  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
+15  
+10  
+10  
POST  
RTN TO  
AUX1  
2
2
2
2
2
PRE  
POST  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
+15  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
AUX SEND 1-2  
TO FW 5-6  
POWER  
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
ASSIGN TO  
FW 7-8  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
O O MAX  
LEVEL  
-
-
-
-
- 20  
20  
20  
20  
20  
MIC  
U
U
U
U
U
U
DESTINATION  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
LEVEL  
O O +10dB  
LEVEL  
O O +10dB  
LEVEL  
O O +10dB  
AUX 1-2  
PHONES  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
1
2
TALKBACK  
MAIN MIX  
3-4  
5-6  
7-8  
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Set the levels  
Quick Start  
It’s not even necessary to hear what you’re doing to  
set optimal levels. But if you’d like to: Plug headphones  
into the phones output jack, then turn up the phones  
knob just a little.  
We realize that you must be really keen  
to try out your new mixer. Please read  
the safety instructions on page 2 and this  
page, and then have a look through some  
of the features and details in this manual.  
1. Turn on the mixer by pressing the top edge of  
the power switch.  
2. For one channel, press the solo switch in, and  
the rude solo light will turn on.  
Setup  
Use the mixer in a nice clean and dry environment,  
free from dryer lint and dust bunnies.  
3. Play something into that input at real-world  
levels.  
4. Adjust that channel's gain control until the  
right main meter stays around the 0 dB LED  
(marked "level set").  
Zero the controls  
1. Fully turn down all the knobs to minimum,  
except for the channel EQ and pan controls,  
which should be centered.  
5. Disengage the channel's solo switch.  
6. Repeat steps 2 to 5 for the remaining channels.  
7. Turn up the channel level to the "U" mark.  
2. Make sure all buttons are in the out position.  
8. Slowly turn up the main mix level until you  
hear the signals in your speakers.  
Connections  
9. If needed, apply some channel EQ wisely.  
1. Make sure the AC power switch is off before  
making any connections.  
10. Adjust the channel levels to get the best mix.  
Keep the gain controls and levels fully down on  
unused channels.  
2. Push the linecord securely into the IEC  
connector on the rear panel, and plug it into a  
3-prong AC outlet. The mixer can accept any  
AC voltage ranging from 100 VAC to 240 VAC.  
11. During the performance, if you notice a channel  
OL LED turning on during peaks, carefully turn  
down that channel's gain control until OL does  
not turn on.  
3. Plug a balanced microphone into one of the mic  
XLR (3-pin) connectors. Or connect any line-  
level signal (keyboard, or guitar preamp) to a  
line input jack using a TS or a TRS 1/4" plug.  
FireWire  
4. If your microphone requires phantom power,  
press in the 48V phantom power button.  
• See page 35 for details of getting started with  
FireWire.  
5. You can connect a guitar directly to line inputs  
1 or 2 without needing a DI box, if you first  
engage the hi-z switch on these channels.  
• PC drivers are on the supplied CD-ROM.  
Mac OS X contains built-in drivers, so no  
software installation is required.  
6. The insert jacks of channels 1 and 2 can be  
used to connect an external effects or dynamics  
processor into the signal chain.  
Other Notes  
• When shutting down, turn off any power  
amplifiers or powered speakers first. When  
owering up, turn them on last. This will reduce  
the chance of turn-on or turn-off thumps.  
7. Connect the main outputs of the mixer (either  
XLR or TRS 1/4") to the line level inputs of your  
amplifier (with speakers already attached) or  
to the line level inputs of powered speakers.  
• Always turn down the phones level when  
making connections, pressing solo, or doing  
anything that may cause loudness in the  
headphones. This will help protect your  
hearing.  
• Always turn down the main mix level and  
control room level when making connections to  
the mixer. Better yet, turn off the power.  
Part No. SW0718 Rev. D 02/2010  
©2010 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved.  
Loosely based on a dream sequence in which the technical writer is given keys to a  
sports car of his choice, unlimited gas, and closed roads. The dream suddenly ends and  
reality kicks in. A mixer manual to write, a mixer manual to write!  
• Save the shipping box!  
Owner's Manual 3  
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Introduction  
Thank you for choosing a Mackie Onyx 820i  
professional compact mixer. The Onyx i series of mixers  
offer built-in FireWire, along with the newest features  
and latest technologies for live sound reinforcement  
and analog or digital studio recording, all in a durable,  
road-worthy package.  
Features  
• Premium 8-channel super-compact analog  
mixer with integrated Fire wire I/O  
• 2 mono channels (mono mic and mono line  
inputs)  
The Onyx 820i is equipped with three of our premium  
precision-engineered studio-grade Onyx mic preamps.  
Mackie is renowned for the high-quality mic preamps  
used in our mixers, and the Onyx mic pre’s are better  
than ever, with specifications rivaling expensive  
stand-alone mic preamplifiers.  
• 1 hybrid channel (mono mic and stereo line  
inputs)  
• 2 stereo channels (stereo line inputs)  
• 3 Onyx mic preamps with sound comparable to  
boutique preamps  
• 3-band Perkins EQ with sweepable mids on  
mono channels  
Channels 1 and 2 feature high-impedance  
instrument/line-level inputs so you can connect an  
acoustic, electric, or bass guitar directly into the mixer,  
eliminating the need for an external direct box.  
• 4-band Perkins EQ on hybrid channels  
• 3-band Perkins EQ on stereo line channels  
• Flexible FireWire routing with up to 8 channels  
pre/post EQ, aux sends and master L/R routable  
to computer  
Extremely adaptable DAW integration  
Recording and Mixing  
• 2 channels of FireWire monitoring routable to  
either the control room or channels 7 and 8  
Channels, aux sends or the master L/R can be sent  
straight to your computer via FireWire for recording.  
Pre/post EQ taps on every channel allow you to integrate  
our renowned Perkins EQ into the record path. Plus, a  
stereo return from your DAW, or iTunes® is assignable to  
the control room section or straight back into channels  
7 and 8 for mix integration.  
• 2 independent aux sends with separate pre/post  
switches  
• Selectable instrument inputs on first two  
channels – no DI box is needed  
• Individual 48v phantom power switches on all  
mic inputs  
Powerful Effects Engine  
• Talkback section with built in mic and flexible  
routing  
With both aux sends routable to your DAW, the 820i  
allows you to use your favorite plug-in as a realtime  
effect. Just route an aux send to your DAW, apply the  
plug-in and assign your DAW outputs to the control  
room or to a channel strip for instant integration into  
the mix.  
• "Planet-Earth" switching power supply for  
worldwide use  
• Optional rack kit available  
Live Recording  
Live sound recording could not be simpler with the  
820i. The ability to record individual channels either  
wet or dry allows for studio quality multi-track  
recordings for later editing and mixdown. Or simply  
record the main mix, allowing for immediate creation of  
CDs right at the gig.  
4 Onyx 820i  
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How To Use This Manual  
The first pages after the table of contents are the  
hookup diagrams. These show typical setups for fun  
times with your mixer.  
Next is a detailed tour of the entire mixer. The  
descriptions are divided into sections, just as your mixer  
is organized into distinct zones:  
• Back panel  
• Connection section  
• Channel controls  
• Master controls  
Throughout these sections you’ll find illustrations  
with each feature numbered and described in nearby  
paragraphs.  
This icon marks information that is critically  
important or unique to the mixer. For your own  
good, read them and remember them.  
This icon will lead you to some explanations of  
features and practical tips. Go ahead and skip  
these if you need to leave the room in a hurry.  
Appendix A: Service information.  
Appendix B: Connectors.  
Appendix C: Technical information.  
Appendix D: Rack ear installation.  
Appendix E: FireWire.  
Appendix F: Modifications.  
Need help with your new mixer?  
Support to find: FAQs, manuals,  
addendums, and other useful  
information.  
• Email us at: techmail@mackie.com.  
Telephone 1-800-898-3211 to speak with  
one of our splendid technical support  
chaps (Monday through Friday, normal  
business hours, PST).  
Owner's Manual 5  
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Contents  
CONTROL ROOM/PHONES AND METERS ............ 23  
38. MAIN MIX .............................................. 23  
39. TAPE, FW 1-2, ALT 3-4 ............................ 23  
40. ASSIGN TO MAIN MIX............................. 23  
41. CONTROL ROOM KNOB ........................... 23  
42. PHONES KNOB........................................ 24  
43. LEFT/RIGHT LEVEL METERS...................... 24  
44. RUDE SOLO LIGHT ................................... 24  
AUX MASTER..................................................... 25  
45. MASTER AUX SEND 1 AND 2.................... 25  
46. PRE/POST .............................................. 25  
47. MASTER AUX RETURN 1 AND 2 ............... 25  
48. RTN TO AUX 1 ........................................ 25  
49. AUX SEND 1-2 TO FW 5-6 ....................... 25  
50. POWER LED............................................. 26  
TALKBACK ......................................................... 26  
51. TALKBACK MIC........................................ 26  
52. TALKBACK LEVEL ..................................... 26  
53. DESTINATION: PHONES, AUX 1-2............. 26  
54. TALKBACK SWITCH.................................. 27  
MAIN MIX......................................................... 27  
55. MAIN MIX ............................................. 27  
56. ASSIGN TO FW 7–8 ............................... 27  
APPENDIX A: SERVICE INFORMATION.................... 28  
APPENDIX B: CONNECTIONS.................................. 29  
APPENDIX C: TECHNICAL INFORMATION................ 31  
APPENDIX D: RACK EAR INSTALLATION ................. 34  
APPENDIX E: FIREWIRE......................................... 35  
APPENDIX F: MODIFICATIONS ............................... 39  
LIMITED WARRANTY............................................. 41  
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ........................ 2  
QUICK START.......................................................... 3  
INTRODUCTION ...................................................... 4  
YOU ARE HERE ....................................................... 6  
HOOKUP DIAGRAMS............................................... 7  
FEATURES............................................................. 12  
REAR PANEL...................................................... 12  
1. POWER CONNECTION............................. 12  
2. POWER SWITCH..................................... 12  
3. FIREWIRE CONNECTIONS........................ 12  
4. LEFT/RIGHT XLR MAIN OUTPUTS ........... 13  
5. MAIN OUTPUT LEVEL.............................. 13  
6. CTRL-RM OUT........................................ 13  
7. ALT 3–4 OUT ......................................... 13  
CONNECTION SECTION....................................... 14  
8. MIC INPUTS........................................... 14  
9. INSERT (CH. 1 AND 2)............................ 14  
10. MONO LINE INPUTS (CH. 1 AND 2)......... 15  
11. STEREO LINE INPUTS (CH. 3-8) ............... 15  
12. AUX SEND 1 AND 2................................ 15  
13. AUX RETURN 1 AND 2 ........................... 15  
14. LEFT/RIGHT 1/4" MAIN OUTPUTS ......... 15  
15. TAPE INPUTS ......................................... 16  
16. TAPE OUTPUTS ...................................... 16  
17. HEADPHONE OUTPUT ............................ 16  
CHANNEL CONTROLS ......................................... 17  
18. HI-Z SWITCH (CH. 1 AND 2 ONLY).......... 18  
19. LOW CUT (CH.1–4 ONLY) ....................... 18  
20. 48V PHANTOM POWER (CH. 1-4 ONLY).. 18  
21. LINE +4 DB/-10 DB (CH. 3 AND 4 ONLY) 19  
22. INPUT (LINE OR FW 1-2)........................ 19  
23. GAIN CONTROL...................................... 19  
24. SEND FIREWIRE PRE/POST..................... 19  
25. HIGH EQ................................................ 20  
26. MID EQ FREQUENCY (CH. 1 AND 2)......... 20  
27. MID EQ LEVEL (CH. 1 AND 2).................. 20  
28. HIGH MID EQ LEVEL (CH. 3 AND 4)......... 20  
29. LOW MID EQ LEVEL (CH. 3 AND 4).......... 20  
30. MID EQ LEVEL (CH. 5/6 AND 7/8) ......... 20  
31. LOW EQ................................................. 20  
32. AUX SEND 1 AND 2................................ 21  
33. PAN....................................................... 21  
34. MUTE SWITCH AND ALT 3–4................... 21  
35. –20 AND OL LEDS .................................. 22  
36. LEVEL .................................................... 22  
37. SOLO..................................................... 22  
6 Onyx 820i  
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Hookup Diagrams  
Acoustic Guitar  
and Mic  
Microphone  
Aux 1  
Stereo Effects Processor  
Guitar Processor  
set to  
POST  
Return  
Send  
1
2
3-4  
AUSEND  
ARN  
MAIN OUT  
TAPE  
OUT  
BUNBAL  
BAL
BAL/UNBAL  
1
2
IN  
L
1
L
L
MONO)  
2
R
R
R
INSERT  
INSERT  
L
(MONO)  
LINE IN 5-6 LI
BAL/UNBAL  
1
BAL/UNBAL  
NBAL  
R
L
L
(MONO)  
(MONO)  
LINE  
E  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
LINE  
NE  
HI  
+
-10dB  
4dB  
LINE  
-
-
Z
HI  
Z
R
R
48V  
48V  
PREMIUM ANALOG MIXER w/ PERKINS EQ  
&
FIREWIRE  
CTRL ROOM/PHONES  
30  
30  
U
U
U
U
SOURCE  
0dB=0dBu  
20  
U
40  
60  
20  
60  
20  
U
40  
60  
MIC  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
L
R
CLIP  
20  
15  
10  
6
-20dB +40dB  
40dB  
-20dB +20dB  
SEND  
-20dB +20dB  
SEND  
MAIN MIX  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
INPUT  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
Aux 2  
set to  
PRE  
LINE  
FW 1-2  
TAPE  
Drum  
Machine  
3
U
U
U
U
U
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
0
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
-
4
FW 1-2  
ALT 3  
2
LEVEL  
SET  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
4
1k  
1k  
U
7
HIGH  
MID  
FREQ  
MID  
FREQ  
MID  
U
U
U
U
10  
20  
30  
ASSIGN TO  
MAIN MIX  
2.5KHz  
100  
8k  
100  
8k  
-15  
+15  
+15  
+15  
MID  
MID  
U
U
U
2.5kHz  
2.5kHz  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
LOW  
MID  
400Hz  
O
O
MAX  
O O  
MAX  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
RUDE  
SOLO  
CONTROL  
ROOM  
PHONES  
U
U
U
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
AUX MASTER  
-15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
SEND  
RETURN  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
PRE  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
O
O
+15  
+10  
+10  
POST  
RTN TO  
AUX1  
2
2
2
2
2
PRE  
POST  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
+15  
O O  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
AUX SEND 1-2  
TO FW 5-6  
POWER  
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
Laptop with  
audio production  
software  
ASSIGN TO  
FW 7-8  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
A LT 3-4  
A LT 3-4  
A LT 3-4  
A LT 3-4  
A LT 3-4  
O O  
MAX  
LEVEL  
MIC  
U
U
U
U
U
U
-
-
-
-
- 20  
20  
20  
20  
20  
DESTINATION  
O O  
+10dB  
O O  
+10dB  
O O  
+10dB  
O O  
+10dB  
O O  
+10dB  
O O  
+10dB  
AUX  
1-2  
PHONES  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SRM150  
Powered  
Monitor  
1
2
TALKBACK  
MAIN MIX  
3-4  
5-6  
7-8  
DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA  
MANUFACTURED IN CHINA FABRIQUE EN CHINE  
"MACKIE"  
&
"ONYX" ARE TRADEMARKS OF LOUD TECHNOLOGIES INC.  
COPYRIGHT ©2008  
Mackie  
FIREWIRE  
MAIN OUT  
CNTL RM OUT  
-
BAL/UNBAL  
BALANCED  
R
L
POWER  
ON  
Mackie  
R
L
SRM450v2  
Powered  
SRM450v2  
Powered  
ALT 3-4 OUT  
R/4 BAL/UNBAL L/3  
Speaker  
UT  
Speaker  
This diagram shows an acoustic guitar mic'd up directly to channel 1 and a microphone connected to  
channel 2 for vocals. A guitar processor is connected to the insert jack of channel 1.  
An effects processor receives a mono input from the aux 1 send, and its stereo outputs connect to the  
stereo return inputs. Aux 1 is set post-fader, using the Aux 1 pre/post switch in the Aux Master section.  
A Mackie SRM150 powered speaker is connected to aux send 2 as a monitor for the performer(s).  
Aux 2 is set to pre-fader, using the Aux 2 pre/post switch in the Aux Master section.  
Mackie SRM450v2 powered speakers are connected to the left and right main outputs.  
A laptop connects to the FireWire port, and allows the 2-channel main mix of the performance to be  
recorded using your audio production software. Two channels of audio can also play from the computer  
to the main mix. For example, you can play intermission music when the call for an egg-nog decaf latté  
or green tea gets too strong and you have to take a break.  
1-2 Man Coffeehouse Gig  
Owner's Manual 7  
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Bass  
Electric  
Guitar  
Guitar  
Condenser  
Microphone  
Headphones  
Stereo Effects Processor  
Digital Delay  
Headphone Amp  
1
2
4  
AUSEN
BNB
ARE
OUT  
TAPE  
L/
NBAL  
1
2
OUT  
L
1
2
L
Amplifier  
Modeler  
ONO)  
R
R
R
SERT  
INSERT  
L
(MONO)  
LINE IN 5-6 LINE IN 7-8  
BAL/UNBAL  
1
BAL/UNBAL  
2
BAL/UNBAL  
R
L
L
(MONO)  
)  
LINE  
LINE  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
LINE  
LINE  
HI  
+
-1
4d
LINE  
-
-
Z
HI  
Z
R
R
48V  
48V  
PREMIUM ANALOG MIXER w/ PERKINS EQ  
&
FIREWIRE  
press HI-Z  
button  
CTHONES  
30  
30  
U
U
U
U
0dB=0dBu  
20  
U
40  
60  
20  
U
40  
60  
20  
U
M
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
L
R
CLIP  
20  
15  
10  
6
-20dB +40dB  
-20dB +40dB  
-20dB +20dB  
SEND  
-20dB +20dB  
SEND  
MAIN MIX  
SEND  
SEND  
SE
INPUT  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
LINE  
FW 1-2  
TAPE  
3
U
U
U
U
U
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
0
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
-
FW 1-2  
ALT 3 4  
2
LEVEL  
SET  
Drum  
Machine  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
4
1k  
1k  
U
HIGH  
MID  
FREQ  
MID  
FREQ  
MID  
U
U
U
U
2.5KHz  
100  
8k  
100  
8k  
-15  
+15  
+15  
+15  
MID  
MID  
U
U
U
2.5kHz  
2.5kHz  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
LOW  
MID  
400Hz  
O
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
CO
R
U
U
U
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
-15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
SEND  
RETURN  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
Keyboard  
PRE  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
O
O
+15  
+10  
+10  
POST  
RTN TO  
AUX1  
2
2
2
2
2
PRE  
POST  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
+15  
O O  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
AUX SEND 1-2  
TO FW 5-6  
POWER  
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
ASSIGN TO  
FW 7-8  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
O O  
MAX  
LEVEL  
MIC  
U
U
U
U
U
U
-
-
-
-
- 20  
20  
20  
20  
20  
DESTINATION  
Laptop with  
audio production  
software  
O
O
+10dB  
O
O
+10dB  
O
O
+10dB  
O
O
+10dB  
O
O
+10dB  
O
O
+10dB  
AUX  
1-2  
PHONES  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
1
2
TALKBACK  
MAIN MIX  
3-4  
5-6  
7-8  
Mackie MR8  
Powered  
DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA  
MANUFACTURED IN CHINA FABRIQUE EN CHINE  
"MACKIE"  
&
"ONYX" ARE TRADEMARKS OF LOUD TECHNOLOGIES INC.  
COPYRIGHT ©2008  
FIREWIRE  
MAIN OUT  
CNTL - RM OUT  
BAL/UNBAL  
BALANCED  
Reference  
R
L
POWER  
ON  
R
L
Monitors for  
Control Room  
LT 3-4 OU
BAL/UNBAL
R
Recorder  
T  
This diagram shows an electric guitar connected to an amplifier modeler, whose balanced line-level  
output is connected to the channel 1 line input, a bass guitar connected directly to the channel 2 input  
(with the hi-z switch engaged), a condenser microphone on channel 3/4 with phantom power engaged,  
a drum machine connected to channel 5/6, and a keyboard connected to channel 7/8. A headphone  
amplifier allows for multiple headphone use.  
An effects processor and a digital delay unit each receive a mono input from an aux send (in post  
mode), and their stereo outputs connect to their respective stereo return inputs. As an alternative to  
hardware units, you can send aux 1 and 2 to your computer by engaging the Aux Send 1-2 to FW 5-6  
switch. Then use your DAW's effects plug-ins to add effects. Return them via FireWire to the main mix.  
Mackie MR8 powered reference monitors are connected to the left and right control room outputs.  
A nice 2 track recorder is connected to the main left and right outputs to record the main mix directly.  
A laptop connects to the FireWire port, allowing the 2-channel main mix to be recorded and two  
channels to be played back. Individual channels, and aux 1 and aux 2 can also be recorded via  
FireWire (a maximum of 8 FireWire outs).  
Home Studio System: Straight to stereo  
8 Onyx 820i  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Headphones  
Bass  
Electric  
Guitar  
Guitar  
Condenser  
Microphone  
Headphone Amp  
1
2
4  
AUX SEND  
BAL/UNBAL  
AUX RETURN  
MAIN OUT  
TAPE  
OUT  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
1
2
L
1
2
L
L
(MONO)  
R
R
R
SERT  
INSERT  
L
(MONO)  
LINE IN 5-6 LINE IN 7-8  
BAL/UNBAL  
1
BAL/UNBAL  
2
BAL/UNBAL  
R
L
L
(MONO)  
)  
LINE  
LINE  
press HI-Z  
buttons  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
LINE  
LINE  
HI  
+
-10
4d
LINE  
-
-
Z
HI  
Z
R
R
48V  
48V  
PREMIUM ANALOG MXER w/ PERKINS EQ  
&
FIREWIRE  
CTHONES  
30  
30  
U
U
U
U
0dB=0dBu  
20  
U
40  
60  
20  
U
40  
60  
20  
U
M
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
L
R
CLIP  
20  
15  
10  
6
-20dB +40dB  
-20dB +40dB  
-20dB +20dB  
SEND  
-20dB +20dB  
SEND  
MAIN MIX  
SEND  
SEND  
SE
INPUT  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
LINE  
FW 1-2  
TAPE  
3
U
U
U
U
U
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
0
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
-
4
FW 1-2  
ALT 3  
2
LEVEL  
SET  
Drum  
Machine  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
4
1k  
1k  
U
HIGH  
MID  
FREQ  
MID  
FREQ  
MID  
U
U
U
U
2.5KHz  
100  
8k  
100  
8k  
-15  
+15  
+15  
+15  
MID  
MID  
U
U
U
2.5kHz  
2.5kHz  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
LOW  
MID  
400Hz  
O O  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
CON
RO
U
U
U
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
AUX MASTER  
-15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
SEND  
RETURN  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
Keyboard  
PRE  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
O
O
+15  
+10  
+10  
POST  
RTN TO  
AUX1  
2
2
2
2
2
PRE  
POST  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
+15  
O O  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
AUX SEND 1-2  
TO FW 5-6  
POWER  
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
ASSIGN TO  
FW 7-8  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
O O  
MAX  
LEVEL  
MIC  
U
U
U
U
U
U
-
-
-
-
- 20  
20  
20  
20  
20  
DESTINATION  
Laptop Computer  
with audio production  
software  
O
O
+10dB  
O
O
+10dB  
O
O
+10dB  
O
O
+10dB  
O
O
+10dB  
O
O
+10dB  
AUX  
1-2  
PHONES  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
1
2
TALKBACK  
MAIN MIX  
3-4  
5-6  
7-8  
Mackie MR8  
DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA  
MANUFACTURED IN CHINA FABRIQUE EN CHINE  
Powered  
"MACKIE"  
&
"ONYX" ARE TRADEMARKS OF LOUD TECHNOLOGIES INC.  
COPYRIGHT ©2008  
FIREWIRE  
MAIN OUT  
CNTL RM OUT  
-
BAL/UNBAL  
BALANCED  
Reference  
R
L
POWER  
ON  
R
L
Monitors for  
Control Room  
LT 3-4 OU
RBAL/UNBAL
MAIN OUTPUT  
LEVEL  
+4dB  
MIC  
This diagram shows an electric guitar connected directly to channel 1 (with the hi-z switch engaged),  
a bass guitar connected directly to channel 2 (also with the hi-z engaged), a condenser microphone on  
channel 3/4 with the phantom power engaged, a drum machine connected to channel 5/6, and a  
keyboard connected to channel 7/8. A headphone amplifier allows for multiple headphone use during  
the recording process.  
A pair of Mackie MR8 powered reference monitors are connected to the left and right control room  
outputs, for careful and accurate monitoring of the performances in the control room.  
A laptop computer connects to a FireWire port, allowing each channel to be recorded and two  
channels from the laptop to be played back. Note: You can record a maximum of 8 channels via  
FireWire if you do not record the auxes or main mix.  
The DAW gets the 8 individual channel tracks. You can then mix down the project within the DAW at a  
later time. These individual tracks can be pre-EQ or post-EQ depending on the channel pre/post  
switches. Post-EQ allows you to use the mixer's high-quality Perkins EQ in your recordings. Software  
plug-ins can be used for the effects processing of different tracks, and software amplifier emulators can  
be used on the guitars to give the sound of mic'd amps.  
Your carefully mixed 2-channel mix can be sent back to the control room via FireWire, by engaging the  
FW 1-2 switch in the control room/phones matrix, and sent to the band with the headphone amp fed by  
the phones out.  
Home Studio System: Recording each channel  
Owner's Manual 9  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Microphone  
Stereo Effects Processor  
Dynamics  
Processor  
Aux 1  
iPod  
Acoustic  
Guitar with  
pickup  
set to  
POST  
Docking Station  
1
2
3-4  
AUSEND  
ARE
MAIN OUT  
TA
OU
BNBAL  
AL/
BAL/UNBAL  
1
2
IN  
1
L
ONO)  
Headphones  
2
R
R
R
INSERT  
INSERT  
L
(MONO)  
INE IN 5-6 LINE IN 7-8  
BAL/UNBAL  
1
BAL/UNBAL  
L  
L
L
(MONO)  
press HI-Z  
button  
LINE  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
LINE  
Z
NE  
-
Z
LINE  
-
HI  
HI  
B  
R
R
48V  
8V  
RM ANALOG MIXER w/ PERKINS EQ  
&
FIREWIRE  
CTNES  
SO
30  
3
30  
U
U
U
U
0dB=0dBu  
20  
U
40  
60  
20  
U
60  
20  
U
40  
60  
MIC  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
L
R
CLIP  
20  
15  
10  
6
-20dB +40dB  
-20dB +40dB  
-20dB +20dB  
SEND  
-20dB +20dB  
SEND  
MAIN MIX  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
INPUT  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
Drum  
Machine  
LINE  
FW 1-2  
TAPE  
3
U
U
U
U
U
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
0
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
-
FW 1-2  
ALT 3 4  
2
LEVEL  
SET  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
4
1k  
1k  
U
HIGH  
MID  
FREQ  
MID  
FREQ  
MID  
U
U
U
U
2.5KHz  
100  
8k  
100  
8k  
-15  
+15  
+15  
+15  
MID  
MID  
U
U
U
2.5kHz  
2.5kHz  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
LOW  
MID  
400Hz  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
C
U
U
U
Aux 2  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
set to  
PRE  
AUX MASTER  
-15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
SEND  
RETURN  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
Keyboard  
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
O
O
MA
O
O
+10  
+1
TO  
1  
2
Mackie SRM450v2  
Powered Speakers  
(Stage Monitors)  
O
O
O
O
AN  
POWE
L
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
ASSIGN TO  
FW 7-8  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
O O  
MAX  
LEVEL  
MIC  
U
U
U
U
U
U
-
-
-
-
- 20  
20  
20  
20  
20  
DESTINATION  
O
O
+10dB  
O
O
+10dB  
O
O
+10dB  
O
O
+10dB  
O
O
+10dB  
O O  
+10dB  
AUX  
1-2  
PHONES  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
1
2
TALKBACK  
MAIN MIX  
3-4  
5-6  
7-8  
HD1531  
Powered Speaker  
Main Right  
HD1531  
Powered Speaker  
Main Left  
DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA  
MANUFACTURED IN CHINA FABRIQUE EN CHINE  
"MACKIE"  
&
"ONYX" ARE TRADEMARKS OF LOUD TECHNOLOGIES INC.  
COPYRIGHT ©2008  
FIREWIRE  
MAIN OUT  
CNTL - RM OUT  
BAL/UNBAL  
BALANCED  
R
L
POWER  
ON  
R
L
HD1801  
Powered  
HD1801  
Powered  
A3-4 OUT  
R/4 L/UNBAL L/
Subwoofers  
Subwoofers  
UT  
Laptop Computer  
with audio  
production software  
SRM350v2  
Powered  
Speakers  
This diagram shows an acoustic-electric guitar connected to the channel 1 input (with the hi-z switch  
pressed down), a microphone connected to the channel 2 mic input, a drum machine connected to  
channel 3-4, and a keyboard connected to channel 7-8. Engage the +4dBu/–10dBV switch on  
channels 3-4 if your drum machine runs at –10 dBV. An iPod® can be used for intermission music.  
A dynamics processor is connected to the insert jack of channel 1 to work its magic on your guitar.  
An effects processor receives a mono input from aux 1 send, and its stereo outputs connect to the stereo  
aux 1 return inputs. Set Aux 1 to post-fader, using the pre/post switch in the Aux Master section.  
A plethora of SRM450v2 powered speakers are strewn across the stage as monitors for the band; they  
are connected to the aux 2 send jack (in pre-fader mode). Headphones are used to monitor all levels.  
The club is driven by four HD1801 powered subwoofers and a pair of HD1531 powered speakers  
connected to the main mix outputs. SRM350v2 powered speakers monitor the control room output.  
Individual channels 1 to 8 can be sent via the FireWire port to a laptop computer. Aux 1 and 2 can be  
sent instead of ch. 5 and 6, or the main L/R mix sent instead of ch. 7 and 8. Two channels can be played  
back from the laptop using the same FireWire port. For example, you can play iTunes® as intermission  
music in the main system, or send two channels from a virtual instrument into mixer channels 7 and 8.  
Club System  
10 Onyx 820i  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Headphones  
Effects Processor  
Voice-over  
Microphone  
Headphone Amp  
Voice-over booth  
record  
1
2
3-4  
ASEND  
BUNBAL  
X RN  
OUT  
E  
OUT  
BA
NBA
1
2
Video Deck  
L
1
2
L
L
MONO)  
R
R
R
play  
L
(MONO)  
LINE IN 5-6 IN 7-8  
Effects/ Sampler  
BAL/UNBAL  
2
R
L
(MONO)  
(MONO
LINE  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
/UNBAL  
LINE  
LINE  
HI  
+
-10dB  
4dB  
-
HI  
Z
Synthesizer  
R
48V  
48V  
PREMIUM ANALOG MIXER w/ PERKINS EQ  
&
FIREWIRE  
RL ROOM/PHONES  
SOURCE  
30  
30  
U
U
U
U
0dB=0dBu  
20  
U
40  
60  
20  
U
40  
U
40  
60  
MIC  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GA
L
R
CLIP  
20  
15  
10  
6
-20dB +40dB  
-20dB +4
-20dB +20dB  
SEND  
-20dB +20dB  
SEND  
MAIN MIX  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
INPUT  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
LINE  
FW 1-2  
TAPE  
3
Keyboard Controller  
U
U
U
U
U
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
0
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
HIGH  
12kHz  
-
FW 1-2  
ALT 3 4  
2
LEVEL  
SET  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
4
1k  
1k  
U
7
HIGH  
MID  
FREQ  
MID  
FREQ  
MID  
U
U
U
U
10  
20  
30  
ASSIGN TO  
MAIN MIX  
2.5KHz  
100  
8k  
100  
8k  
-15  
+15  
+15  
+15  
MID  
MID  
U
U
U
2.5kHz  
2.5kHz  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
LOW  
MID  
400Hz  
O O  
MAX  
O O  
MAX  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
RUDE  
SOLO  
CONTROL  
ROOM  
PHONES  
U
U
U
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
LOW  
80Hz  
AUX MASTER  
-15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
SEND  
RETURN  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
PRE  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
MAX  
MAX  
O
O
O
O
+15  
+10  
+10  
POST  
RTN TO  
AUX1  
2
2
2
2
2
PRE  
POST  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
+15  
O O  
Electronic  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
AUX SEND 1-2  
TO FW 5-6  
Drum Kit  
POWER  
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
ASSIGN TO  
FW 7-8  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
O O  
MAX  
LEVEL  
MIC  
U
U
U
U
U
U
-
-
-
-
- 20  
20  
20  
20  
20  
DESTINATION  
Recorder  
O
O
+10dB  
O
O
+10dB  
O
O
+10dB  
O
O
+10dB  
O
O
+10dB  
O O  
+10dB  
AUX  
1-2  
PHONES  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
1
2
TALKBACK  
MAIN MIX  
3-4  
5-6  
7-8  
Mackie  
HR824mkII  
Powered  
Mackie  
HR824mkII  
Powered  
DESIGNED BY WOODINVILLE,
NUFACTURED IN CHINA FABRIQUE EN CHINE  
"MACK
ARE TRADEMARHNOLOGIES INC.  
COPYRIGHT ©2008  
FIREWIRE  
AIN OUT  
CNTL RM OUT  
-
BAL/UNBAL  
BALANCED  
R
L
POWER  
ON  
LT 3-4 OU
RBAL/UNBAL
Reference  
Reference  
Monitor for  
Control Room  
Monitor for  
Control Room  
MAIN OUTPUT  
LEVEL  
+4dB  
MIC  
RAID rack  
Desktop  
Mac or PC  
Cinema Display for Audio  
Cinema Display for Video  
This diagram shows a voice-over microphone connected to channel 1 mic input, a video deck's audio  
output connected to channels 3/4, with its audio inputs receiving the main mix from the 1/4" outputs.  
A synthesizer is connected to channel 5/6, and an electronic drum kit connected to channel 7/8.  
An effects processor and a sampler each receive a mono input from an aux send (post-fader), and  
their stereo outputs connect to the respective stereo return inputs. A keyboard controller is attached to the  
sampler. Headphones are used to monitor all levels, using a headphone amp with multiple headphones,  
including one in the voice-over booth.  
A pair of Mackie HR824mkII powered reference monitors is connected to the left and right control room  
outputs for careful and accurate monitoring in the control room.  
A desktop Mac or PC is connected to a FireWire port, allowing the 2-channel main mix to be recorded  
and two channels to be played back. Two cinema screens are connected to the desktop, one displaying  
audio and the second for video. A RAID rack is attached to the computer for mass storage. A recorder is  
connected to the main outs, and utilized as the master recorder.  
Post-Production System  
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Onyx 820i Features  
CTRL - RM OUT  
FIREWIRE  
MAIN OUT  
BAL/UNBAL  
BALANCED  
R
L
POWER  
ON  
R
L
6
7
4
ALT 3-4 OUT  
BAL/UNBAL L/3  
1
R/4  
+4dB  
MIC  
MAIN OUTPUT  
LEVEL  
2
3
5
Rear Panel  
3. FIREWIRE CONNECTIONS  
1. POWER CONNECTION  
FireWire is a high-speed two-way interface for  
connecting digital devices. Two FireWire connectors  
allow the transfer of digital audio to and from your  
computer or digital audio workstation (DAW) with  
ultra-low latency. Usually, only one connector is used.  
This is a standard 3-prong IEC power connector.  
Connect the detachable linecord (included in the box  
with your mixer) to the power receptacle, and plug the  
other end of the linecord into an AC outlet. The Onyx  
820i has a universal power supply that can accept any  
AC voltage ranging from 100 VAC to 240 VAC. No need for  
voltage select switches. It will work virtually anywhere  
in the world. That’s why we call it a “Planet-Earth” power  
supply! It is less susceptible to voltage sags or spikes,  
compared to conventional power supplies, and provides  
greater electromagnetic isolation and better protection  
against AC line noise.  
The FireWire interface provides the following outputs  
to your computer:  
• Channels 1–8, tapped pre-fader, and either  
pre-EQ, or post EQ (your choice).  
• Aux send 1 and 2 (a copy of the final aux  
outputs to your stage monitors or processors).  
FireWire outputs 5 and 6 can either be from  
channels 5 and 6, or aux send 1 and 2.  
Disconnecting the plug’s ground pin is  
dangerous. Don’t do it.  
• Left/right main mix. The left/right main mix  
at the FireWire output is not affected by the  
main mix level control (important for recording  
live). FireWire outputs 7 and 8 can either be  
from channels 7 and 8, or main mix L and R.  
2. POWER SWITCH  
Press the top of this rocker switch inwards to turn on  
the mixer. The front panel power LED [50] will glow  
with happiness, or at least it will if you have the mixer  
plugged into a suitable live AC mains supply.  
Use FireWire to record a live performance directly to  
your computer, then you can mixdown to a stereo mix  
later. Or you can use FireWire to turn your Onyx mixer  
into a high-quality computer audio interface for your  
DAW.  
Press the bottom of this switch to put the mixer into  
standby mode. It will not function, but the circuits are  
still live. To remove AC power, either turn off the  
AC mains supply, or unplug the power cord from the  
mixer and the AC mains supply.  
FireWire also provides a return for two channels from  
a DAW or computer. This can be routed through the  
control room/phones via the FireWire button [39], to  
monitor the computer audio through your control room  
speakers or headphones (or through the main  
speakers if assign to main mix [40] is selected). In  
this way, you can listen to pre-recorded songs and  
iTunes® as intermission music, or examples of how the  
practice sessions should really sound.  
As a general guide, you should turn on your  
mixer first, before any external power  
amplifiers or powered speakers, and turn it off  
last. This will reduce the possibilities of any  
turn-on, or turn-off thumps in your speakers.  
12 Onyx 820i  
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These same two channels from the computer can  
also be chosen as inputs to channels 7 and 8,  
allowing you to adjust the gain, EQ, level, and pan,  
as well as to solo, and add to aux send 1 and 2. This  
is routed using the FW/line input selector [22] on  
channels 7 and 8. This is useful for live performances,  
where those 2 channels might have, for example, a  
software synthesizer you are triggering from a MIDI  
keyboard, and you want to treat the softsynth as "just  
another instrument," with equal processing and  
routing options as the hardware keyboards coming  
into the other channels.  
• The main mix, if main mix is selected as the  
control room/phones source  
• Tape outputs, if tape is selected  
• Alt 3-4 outputs if alt 3-4 is selected  
• A 2-track FireWire feed from your computer if  
FW 1-2 is selected  
• A combination of all four above  
Except for main mix, whatever is playing in these  
outputs can also be routed to the main mix if assign to  
main mix [40] is engaged. The main mix input to the  
control room is disconnected if assign to main mix is  
engaged.  
The FireWire interface works with both PC (using  
ASIO for Windows XP and Vista) and Mac (Core Audio  
for Mac OS 10.4.11 or higher).  
The headphones and meters play the same program  
as the control room. The meters show the levels prior to  
the control room and phones level controls.  
4. LEFT/RIGHT XLR MAIN OUTPUTS  
Control-room out is long for ctrl-rm out, which  
translated from the ancient language of the  
Pacific NorthWestern I-405 corridor people  
These male XLR connectors provide a balanced line-  
level signal that represents the end of the mixer chain,  
where your fully mixed stereo signal enters the real  
world. Connect these to the inputs of your main power  
amplifiers, powered speakers, or serial effects  
processor (like a graphic equalizer or compressor/  
limiter). It provides a fully balanced signal that is the  
same level as the 1/4" TRS main out jacks [14] on the  
top panel.  
means "I'll have a double latté with chocolate  
sprinkles, and a bagel with cream cheese, and I agree,  
it does look like it will start raining again, but it might  
stop in time for the Mariners game."  
7. ALT 3–4 OUT  
These 1/4" TRS jacks provide a balanced line-level  
signal that can provide an alternate stereo mix for  
recording or subgrouping. Connect these outputs to the  
inputs of an amplifier, powered speaker, or recording  
device.  
5. MAIN OUTPUT LEVEL  
When this switch is out (+4 dB), the XLR main  
outputs [4] provide a "+4 dBu" line-level signal. You  
can then connect these outputs to the line-level inputs  
of power amplifiers, powered loudspeakers, or serial  
processors.  
Any channel whose mute switch [34] is engaged, is  
added to the alt 3-4 outputs.  
The alt 3-4 output doesn’t have a master level  
control. All channels assigned to the alt 3-4  
bus are summed together (post-fader and  
pan) and sent directly to the alt 3-4 out.  
When the switch is pushed in (mic), the XLR main  
outputs are attenuated to microphone level. You can  
then connect these outputs safely to the microphone  
inputs of another mixer, providing a submix for  
CTRL ROOM/PHONES  
keyboards or drums, for example, in a live sound  
application. The main outputs can then be plugged  
directly into a stage snake, and appear back at the front  
of house console like any other microphone level source.  
SOURCE  
38  
MAIN MIX  
When mic is engaged, you can safely plug the  
XLR main output into a mixer's microphone  
input, even if it provides 48 V phantom power.  
TAPE  
39  
The switch is recessed, to reduce the chance of  
-
FW 1-2  
ALT 3 4  
accidently turning it on or off when plugging things in.  
40  
6. CTRL-RM OUT  
ASSIGN TO  
MAIN MIX  
These 1/4" TRS jacks provide balanced left and right-  
line-level outputs to run a studio monitors in the control  
room. Connect these outputs to the inputs of an  
amplifier, powered speakers, or recording device.  
O O  
O O  
MAX  
MAX  
CONTROL  
ROOM  
PHONES  
The source that plays in the control room,  
headphones, and meters can be selected using the  
switches [38, 39] in the control room/phones source  
matrix:  
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1
2
3-4  
AUX SEND  
AUX RETURN  
MAIN OUT  
TAPE  
OUT  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
1
2
IN  
L
L
L
1
(MONO)  
8
9
12  
16  
15  
13  
14  
2
R
R
R
INSERT  
INSERT  
L
(MONO)  
LINE IN 5-6  
LINE IN 7-8  
BAL/UNBAL  
11  
1
2
R
L
L
17  
10  
18  
19  
LINE  
LINE  
(MONO)  
(MONO)  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
AL/UNBAL  
AL/UNBAL  
11  
11  
LINE  
LINE  
+4dB  
LINE  
-
-
HI Z  
HI Z  
-10dB  
R
R
48V  
48V  
48V  
PREMIUM ANALOG MIXER w/ PERKINS EQ  
&
FIREWIRE  
20  
Connection Section  
This is where you plug in things such as: microphones,  
line-level instruments, guitars, effects, a recorder, PA  
system, powered monitors, powered subwoofer, etc.  
Check out the hookup diagrams for some connection  
ideas. See Appendix B (page 29) for further details and  
some rather lovely drawings of the connectors you can  
use with your mixer.  
PHANTOM POWER  
Most modern professional condenser mics require  
48V phantom power, which lets the mixer send  
low-current DC voltage to the mic’s electronics through  
the same wires that carry audio. (Semi-pro condenser  
mics often have batteries to accomplish the same  
thing.) “Phantom” owes its name to an ability to be  
“unseen” by dynamic mics (Shure SM57/SM58, for  
instance), which don’t need external power and aren’t  
affected by it anyway.  
8. MIC INPUTS  
This is a female XLR connector, that accepts a  
balanced microphone input from almost any type of  
microphone. The microphone preamps feature our Onyx  
design, with higher fidelity and headroom rivaling any  
standalone mic preamp on the market today.  
Phantom power for each channel can be selected  
using that channel's phantom [20] switch.  
Never plug single-ended (unbalanced)  
microphones, or ribbon mics into the mic  
input jacks if phantom power is on. Do not  
The XLR inputs are wired as follows:  
Pin 1 = Shield or ground  
plug instrument outputs into the mic XLR input jacks  
with phantom power on, unless you are certain it is safe.  
Pin 2 = Positive (+ or hot)  
Pin 3 = Negative (– or cold)  
We use phantom-powered, balanced microphone  
inputs just like the big studio mega-consoles, for exactly  
the same reason: This kind of circuit is excellent at  
rejecting hum and noise. You can plug in almost any  
kind of mic that has a standard XLR-type male mic  
connector.  
9. INSERT (Ch. 1 and 2)  
These unbalanced 1/4" jacks on channels 1 and 2,  
are for connecting serial effects processors such as  
compressors, equalizers, de-essers, or filters. The insert  
point is after the gain control [23] and low cut filter  
[19], but before the channel’s EQ and level [36]. The  
channel signal can go out of the insert jack to an  
external device, be processed and come back in on the  
same insert jack. To do this requires a standard insert  
cable that must be wired thusly:  
Professional ribbon, dynamic, and condenser mics all  
sound excellent through these inputs. The mic inputs  
will handle any kind of mic level you can toss at them,  
without overloading.  
Microphone-level signals are passed through the  
mixer's splendid microphone preamplifiers to become  
line-level signals. The mic input of hybrid channels 3-4  
is fed equally to channels 3 and 4.  
Tip = send (output to effects device)  
Ring = return (input from effects device)  
Sleeve = common ground  
SEND to processor  
ring  
“tip”  
(TRS plug)  
tip  
sleeve  
This plug connects to one of the  
mixers Channel Insert jacks.  
“ring”  
14 Onyx 820i  
RETURN from processor  
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Insert jacks can be used as channel direct outputs;  
post-gain, and pre-EQ. See the connector section on  
page 30 (figure G) showing three ways to use insert  
cables.  
The aux 1 send signal is the sum (mix) of all the  
channels whose aux 1 send control [32] is set to more  
than minimum. The aux 2 send is the sum of all the  
channels whose aux 2 send control is set to more than  
minimum. The overall aux output level can be adjusted  
with the aux send master controls [45].  
10. MONO LINE INPUTS (Ch. 1 and 2)  
These 1/4" jacks share circuitry (but not phantom  
power) with the mic preamps, and can be driven by  
balanced or unbalanced sources.  
The aux sends can either be pre or post fader,  
depending on the position of the pre/post switches [46].  
For stage monitor work, use pre, so the stage monitors  
do not increase in volume when the channel level is  
adjusted. Imagine how upsetting that can be to big hairy  
drummers. This allows you to set up the monitor mix  
and levels just right, and not have it change every time a  
channel level is adjusted.  
To connect balanced lines to these inputs, use a 1⁄4"  
Tip-Ring-Sleeve (TRS) plug, wired as follows:  
Tip = Positive (+ or hot)  
Ring = Negative (– or cold)  
Sleeve = Shield or ground  
For external processors, use post. In this way, the  
feed to external processors will vary with the channel  
level, so the level of any returned effect (like an echo)  
will also change if the channel level is changed, keeping  
them in the same ratio (wet/dry).  
To connect unbalanced lines to these inputs, use a  
1⁄4" mono (TS) phone plug, wired as follows:  
Tip = Positive (+ or hot)  
Sleeve = Shield or ground  
These line-level inputs can also accept instrument-  
level signals if the hi-z switches [18] are pressed in.  
This allows you to connect guitars directly to channels 1  
and 2, without the need for a DI box. The input  
impedance is optimized for direct connection, and  
high-frequency fidelity is assured.  
13. AUX RETURN 1 and 2  
These 1/4" TRS stereo input connectors allow you to  
add the stereo processed output from external effects  
processors or other devices to the main mix.  
Level adjustment of the incoming signals is made with  
the aux return controls [47].  
11. STEREO LINE INPUTS (Ch. 3-8)  
These 1/4" jacks can be driven by balanced or  
unbalanced sources.  
The signals going into aux return 2 can also be added  
to aux send 1 by engaging the return to aux 1 switch  
[48]. For example, you could add effects from an  
external effects processor to your stage monitors.  
To connect balanced lines to these inputs, use a 1⁄4"  
Tip-Ring-Sleeve (TRS) plug, wired as follows:  
Tip = Positive (+ or hot)  
You can also use these inputs to add any stereo line-  
level signals to your main mix, so it could be another  
line-level source, not just an effects processor.  
Ring = Negative (– or cold)  
Sleeve = Shield or ground  
To connect unbalanced lines to these inputs, use a  
1⁄4" mono (TS) phone plug, wired as follows:  
Tip = Positive (+ or hot)  
If you are connecting a mono source, use the left  
(mono) aux return input, and the mono signals will  
appear on both sides of the main mix.  
Sleeve = Shield or ground  
14. LEFT/RIGHT 1/4" MAIN OUTPUTS  
If you just have a mono source, plug it into the left  
input (labeled left/mono), and the signal will appear  
These 1/4" TRS output connectors provide the  
(as if by magic) equally on the left and right of the main balanced or unbalanced line-level output of the main  
mix.  
mix to an anxiously-waiting world. This is the same  
signal that appears at the XLR main outputs [4] on the  
rear panel, except it is not affected by the main output  
level switch [5].  
12. AUX SEND 1 and 2  
These 1/4" TRS connectors allow you to send balanced  
or unbalanced line-level outputs to external effects  
Connect these outputs to the next device in the signal  
devices, headphone amplifiers, or stage monitors. These chain, such as an external processor (graphic equalizer  
could either be passive stage monitors powered by an  
external amplifier, or powered stage monitors with  
built-in power amplifiers.  
or compressor/limiter), external power amplifiers  
running passive loudspeakers, or to the inputs of  
powered loudspeakers. They could also be connected to  
the inputs of a balanced 2-track recorder, when doing a  
"live to 2-track" type recording.  
Aux send 1 and aux send 2 are independent of each  
other, so you can set up two separate aux mixes.  
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WARNING: The headphone amp is loud, and  
can cause permanent hearing damage. Even  
intermediate levels may be painfully loud  
15. TAPE INPUTS  
These stereo unbalanced RCA inputs allow you to play  
a tape, CD player, iPod® dock, or other line-level source.  
The tape in jacks accept an unbalanced signal using  
standard hi-fi hookup cables.  
with some headphones. BE CAREFUL! Always turn the  
phones level control [42] all the way down before  
connecting headphones or pressing a solo switch, or  
doing anything new that may affect the headphone  
volume. Then turn it up slowly as you listen carefully.  
Push in the tape button [39] to route the tape input  
to the control room and phones outputs [6, 17]. This  
allows you to play back recordings of your mixes.  
Push in the assign to main mix button [40] to route the  
tape input to the main outs [4, 14]. This allows you to play  
back music between sets over the main PA speakers.  
Pushing tape in the source matrix and  
pushing assign to main mix can create a  
feedback path between tape in and tape out.  
Make sure your tape deck is not in record, record pause,  
or input monitor mode when you engage these switches,  
or make sure the control room level control is turned all  
the way down first.  
16. TAPE OUTPUTS  
These stereo unbalanced RCA outputs allow you to  
record the main stereo mix onto a tape deck, hard disk  
recorder, or automatic CD burner, for example. This  
lets you make a recording for posterity/archive/legal  
purposes whenever the band gets back together again.  
The tape output is the stereo main mix, and it is  
affected by the main mix level control [55]. The output  
could also be used as an extra set of main outputs for  
feeding another zone.  
17. HEADPHONE OUTPUT  
This 1/4" TRS connector supplies the output to your  
stereo headphones. It is the same signal that is routed  
to the control room outputs [6], as determined by the  
control room/phones source matrix [38, 39]. The  
volume is controlled with the phones knob [42], right  
next to the control room knob [41].  
Whenever a solo switch [37] is engaged, you will  
only hear the soloed channel(s) in the headphones.  
This gives you the opportunity to audition the channels  
before they are added to the main mix. (Solo signals  
reaching the headphones are not affected by the  
channel level or main level, therefore turn down the  
phones level first, as soloed channels may be loud.)  
The phones output follows standard conventions:  
Tip = Left channel  
Ring = Right channel  
Sleeve = Common ground  
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Channel Controls  
The vertical channel strips look very similar, and have  
only a few differences between them. Each  
1
2
3-4  
AUX SEND  
AUX RETU  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
1
channel works independently, and just controls the  
signals plugged into the inputs directly above it.  
L
1
2
(MONO)  
Here are a few features and differences:  
R
INSERT  
INSERT  
L
(MONO)  
LINE IN 5-6  
LINE IN 7-8  
Mono Channels 1 and 2  
BAL/UNBAL  
• These are mono channels, and their controls  
affect either the mono mic input or the mono  
line-level input.  
1
BAL/UNBAL  
2
BAL/UNBAL  
R
L
L
LINE  
LINE  
(MONO)  
(MONO)  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
LINE  
HI Z  
LINE  
+4dB  
LINE  
-
-
HI Z  
-10dB  
R
R
48V  
48V  
48V  
• Each channel has a hi-z switch, so you can  
connect guitars directly without the need for a  
DI box.  
30  
30  
30  
U
U
U
U
20  
U
40  
60  
20  
U
40  
60  
40  
60  
20  
U
MIC  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
-20dB +40dB  
-20dB +40dB  
-20dB +20dB  
-20dB +20dB  
• High pass filter affects both the mic and line  
inputs.  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
INPUT  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
LINE  
FW 1-2  
• Gain control adjusts the mic level and line  
level.  
U
U
U
U
U
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
HIGH  
HIGH  
HIGH  
HIGH  
HIGH  
12kHz  
12kHz  
12kHz  
12kHz  
12kHz  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
• The 3-band EQ has shelving high, shelving  
low, and peaking mid EQ with adjustable mid  
frequency.  
1k  
1k  
U
HIGH  
MID  
FREQ  
FREQ  
U
U
U
U
2.5KHz  
100  
8k  
100  
8k  
-15  
+15  
+15  
+15  
MID  
MID  
U
U
U
2.5kHz  
2.5kHz  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
LOW  
MID  
MID  
MID  
Hybrid Channels 3/4  
400Hz  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
U
U
U
• These hybrid channels have a mono mic input  
and stereo line-level inputs. The mono mic  
signal is sent in equal amounts to the left and  
right sides of the stereo channel.  
LOW  
LOW  
LOW  
LOW  
LOW  
80Hz  
80Hz  
80Hz  
80Hz  
80Hz  
-15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
1
1
1
1
1
• High pass filter affects the mic input only.  
• Line inputs are switchable +4 dB /–10 dB.  
• Gain control adjusts the mic level only.  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
2
2
2
2
2
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
• The 4-band EQ has shelving high, shelving low,  
with peaking lo-mid and peaking hi-mid.  
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
Stereo Channels 5-8  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
• These stereo channels have two line-level  
inputs.  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
-
-
-
-
- 20  
20  
20  
20  
20  
U
U
U
U
U
• Gain control adjusts the line level only.  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
• The 3-band EQ has shelving high, shelving low,  
and peaking mid EQ.  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
• Channel 7 and 8 have a switch to select  
FireWire inputs instead of the analog line  
inputs.  
1
2
3-4  
5-6  
7-8  
“U” like Unity gain  
Mackie mixers have a “U” symbol on almost every level  
control. It stands for “unity gain,” meaning no change in  
signal level. The labels on the controls are measured in  
decibels (dB), so you’ll know what you’re doing  
level-wise if you choose to change a control’s settings.  
Owner's Manual 17  
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Plugging a guitar into a lower-impedance  
line-level input can result in the loss of high  
1
2
3-4  
AUX SEND  
AUX RETU  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
1
frequencies, causing an unnatural and dull  
sound. Normally, you must use a direct box  
L
1
2
(MONO)  
8
9
between a guitar and a mixer’s input, which serves to  
convert the impedance of the guitar from high to low.  
The hi-z inputs on channels 1 and 2 make the need for  
a direct box unnecessary. However: The hi-z inputs are  
unbalanced (when the switch is in), so if you’re doing a  
live show and running a long cord between the  
instrument and the mixer (say over 25 or 30 feet), it is  
best to use a direct box with a balanced output to avoid  
picking up noise over the length of the cord.  
R
INSERT  
INSERT  
L
(MONO)  
LINE IN 5-6  
LINE IN 7-8  
BAL/UNBAL  
1
BAL/UNBAL  
2
BAL/UNBAL  
R
L
L
10  
18  
LINE  
LINE  
(MONO)  
(MONO)  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
LINE  
HI Z  
+4dB  
LINE  
-
-10dB  
21  
R
R
48V  
48V  
48V  
19  
30  
30  
30  
U
U
20  
U
U
20  
40  
60  
20  
U
40  
60  
40  
60  
20  
U
MIC  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
19. LOW CUT (Ch.1–4 only)  
23  
-20dB +40dB  
-20dB +20dB  
0dB +40dB  
-20dB +20dB  
22  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
INPUT  
The mono and hybrid channels each have a low-cut  
switch (often referred to as a high-pass filter) that cuts  
bass frequencies below 75 Hz at a rate of 18 dB per  
octave.  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
24  
LINE  
FW 1-2  
U
U
U
U
U
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
HIGH  
HIGH  
HIGH  
HIGH  
HIGH  
25  
26  
12kHz  
12kHz  
12kHz  
12kHz  
12kHz  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
1k  
1k  
U
For channels 1 and 2, the low cut switch affects the  
mic and line inputs. For channels 3 and 4, it affects the  
mic input only.  
HIGH  
MID  
FREQ  
FRE
U
U
U
U
28  
2.5KHz  
100  
8k  
100  
8k  
-15  
+15  
+15  
+15  
MID  
MID  
U
U
U
U
U
2.5kHz  
2.5kHz  
30  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
LOW  
MID  
MID  
MID  
27  
29  
400Hz  
We recommend that you use low-cut on every  
microphone application except kick drum, bass guitar,  
or bassy synth patches. These aside, there isn’t much  
down there that you want to hear, and filtering it out  
makes the low stuff you do want much more crisp and  
tasty. Not only that, but low-cut can help reduce the  
possibility of feedback in live situations, and it helps to  
conserve amplifier power.  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
U
LOW  
LOW  
LOW  
LOW  
LOW  
31  
80Hz  
80Hz  
80Hz  
80Hz  
80Hz  
-15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
1
1
1
1
1
32  
33  
34  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
2
2
2
2
2
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
Another way to consider low-cut’s function  
is that it actually adds flexibility during live  
performances. With the addition of low-cut,  
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
you can safely use low equalization on vocals.  
36  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
Many times, bass shelving EQ can really benefit voices.  
Trouble is, adding low EQ also boosts stage rumble, mic  
handling clunks and breath pops from way-down low.  
Applying low-cut removes all those problems, so you can  
add low EQ without blowing your subwoofers.  
35  
37  
38  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
-
-
-
-
- 20  
20  
20  
20  
20  
U
U
U
U
U
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
SOLO  
OLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
20. 48V PHANTOM POWER (Ch. 1-4 only)  
1
2
3-4  
5-6  
7-8  
Most modern professional condenser mics require  
48V phantom power, which lets the mixer send low-  
current DC voltage to the mic’s electronics through the  
same wires that carry audio. (Semi-pro condenser mics  
often have batteries to accomplish the same thing.)  
“Phantom” owes its name to an ability to be “unseen”  
by dynamic mics (Shure SM57/SM58, for instance),  
which don’t need external power and aren’t affected by  
it anyway.  
18. HI-Z SWITCH (Ch. 1 and 2 only)  
Engage this switch if you want to connect guitars  
directly to the 1/4" line inputs of channels 1 or 2.  
Without this switch, you need to use a DI box first,  
before connecting guitars. If these switches are not  
pressed in, guitars will not sound good, particularly the  
high frequency response.  
Press this switch in if your microphone requires  
phantom power. (Always check the position of this  
switch before connecting microphones.)  
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Never plug single-ended (unbalanced)  
microphones, or ribbon mics into the mic  
input jacks if phantom power is on. Do not  
This 20 dB of attenuation can be very handy when you  
are inserting a hot signal, or when you want to add EQ  
gain, or both. Without this “virtual pad,” there is more  
chance of channel clipping.  
plug instrument outputs into the mic XLR input jacks  
with phantom power on, unless you know for certain it  
is safe to do so. Be sure the main level [55] is turned  
down when connecting microphones to the mic inputs  
when phantom power is turned on, to prevent pops from  
getting through to the speakers.  
24. SEND FIREWIRE PRE/POST  
Each channel of the mixer can send a FireWire output  
to your computer or DAW. The FireWire output from  
each channel can be tapped before (pre) or after (post)  
the channel EQ. (The output is always pre-fader.)  
21. LINE +4 dB/-10 dB (Ch. 3 and 4 only)  
If you want the mixer EQ to affect the FireWire  
recording, then set this switch to post. This is useful  
in recording channels in a studio (where the recording  
includes the beneficial effect of our Perkins EQ).  
This switch affects channel 3 and 4 line inputs only  
(not the mic input), and allows them to be connected  
to professional sources (+4 dBu) or consumer sources  
(–10 dBV). This helps adjust the channels for the right  
operating range, so the input is not too hot, or too cold.  
If you would rather record the straight signals from a  
live performance, and EQ them later in your DAW, then  
set this switch to pre. This is good for live work, where  
you may have added EQ to adjust for the room, and yet  
not want this added to your recording.  
For example, leave this switch out if you connect a  
+4 dBu recorder source to channels 3 and 4. Press this  
switch in if you connect a –10 dBV source.  
If your line-level source seems a bit high, make sure  
this switch is out (+4dBu).  
CHANNEL EQUALIZATION (EQ)  
There are three different flavors of EQ:  
22. INPUT (LINE or FW 1-2)  
Mono Channels 1 and 2  
Channel 7 and 8 can either be fed from the 1/4" line  
level inputs, or by two outputs from a computer via  
FireWire. This switch lets you choose which to use.  
Either way, the channels receive line-level analog audio  
signals just prior to the gain control, so channel setup,  
gain adjustment and EQ adjustment are the same for  
line or FireWire. This is useful for virtual instruments  
that want to be "just another channel" among hardware  
instruments.  
3-band EQ with shelving high, shelving low, and  
peaking mid EQ with adjustable mid frequency.  
Hybrid Channels 3/4  
4-band EQ with shelving high, shelving low,  
with peaking lo-mid and peaking hi-mid.  
Stereo Channels 5/6 and 7/8  
3-band EQ with shelving high, shelving low, and  
peaking mid EQ.  
23. GAIN CONTROL  
If you haven’t already, please read the level-setting  
procedure on page 3.  
Shelving means that the circuitry boosts or cuts all  
frequencies past the specified frequency. For example,  
the low EQ boosts bass frequencies below 80 Hz and  
continuing down to the lowest note you never heard.  
Peaking means that certain frequencies form a “hill”  
around the center frequency.  
The gain knobs adjust the input sensitivity of the mic  
and line inputs. This allows signals from the outside  
world to be adjusted to run through each channel at  
optimal internal operating levels.  
With too much EQ, you can really upset  
things. We’ve designed a lot of boost and cut  
into each equalizer circuit because we know  
that everyone will occasionally need that. But if you max  
the EQ on every channel, you’ll get mix mush. Equalize  
subtly and use the left sides of the knobs (cut), as well  
as the right (boost). If you find yourself repeatedly using  
a lot of boost or cut, consider altering the sound source,  
such as placing a mic differently, trying a different kind  
of mic, a different vocalist, changing the strings, or  
gargling.  
If the signal originates through the mic XLR jack,  
there will be 0 dB of gain with the knob fully down,  
ramping to 60 dB of gain fully up. (Ch 3/4 gain affects  
the Mic input only.)  
Through the 1⁄4" line input of channels 1 and 2, there  
is 20 dB of attenuation fully down and 40 dB of gain fully  
up, with unity gain "U" at 11:00.  
Through the 1⁄4" line input of channels 5/6 and 7/8,  
there is 20 dB of attenuation fully down and 20 dB of  
gain fully up, with unity gain "U" at 11:00.  
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26. MID EQ FREQUENCY (Ch. 1 and 2)  
1
2
3-4  
AUX SEND  
AUX RETU  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
1
This knob sets the center frequency of the mid EQ  
level control [27]. This is sweepable from 100 Hz to  
8 kHz.  
L
1
(MONO)  
8
9
13  
12  
2
R
Once this is set, the mid EQ level can be adjusted with  
the mid EQ level control.  
INSERT  
INSERT  
L
(MONO)  
LINE IN 5-6  
LINE IN 7-8  
BAL/UNBAL  
Most of the root and lower harmonics that define  
a sound are located in the 100 Hz–8 kHz frequency  
range, and you can create drastic changes with these  
two knobs. Many engineers use mid EQ to cut midrange  
frequencies, not boost them. One popular trick is to  
set the mid fully up, turn the frequency knob until you  
find a point where it sounds just terrible, then back the  
mid down into the cut range, causing those terrible  
frequencies to disappear. Sounds silly, but it works.  
Sometimes.  
1
BAL/UNBAL  
2
BAL/UNBAL  
R
L
L
10  
18  
LINE  
LINE  
(MONO)  
(MONO)  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
LINE  
HI Z  
+4dB  
LINE  
-
-10dB  
21  
R
R
48V  
48V  
48V  
19  
30  
30  
30  
U
U
20  
U
U
20  
40  
60  
20  
U
40  
60  
40  
60  
20  
U
MIC  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
23  
0dB +40dB  
-20dB +40dB  
-20dB +20dB  
-20dB +20dB  
22  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
INPUT  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
24  
LINE  
FW 1-2  
U
U
U
U
U
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
HIGH  
HIGH  
HIGH  
HIGH  
HIGH  
25  
26  
12kHz  
12kHz  
12kHz  
12kHz  
12kHz  
27. MID EQ LEVEL (Ch. 1 and 2)  
The mid EQ provides up to  
15 dB of boost or cut, and it is  
also flat (no boost or cut) at the  
detent. The frequency at which  
the cut or boost occurs is set by  
the mid EQ frequency  
control [26].  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
1k  
1k  
U
+15  
HIGH  
MID  
FREQ  
FRE
U
U
U
U
+10  
28  
2.5KHz  
100  
8k  
100  
8k  
+5  
-15  
+15  
+15  
+15  
MID  
MID  
U
U
U
U
U
2.5kHz  
2.5kHz  
30  
0
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
LOW  
MID  
MID  
MID  
–5  
27  
29  
400Hz  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
–10  
U
–15  
20Hz  
100Hz  
1kHz  
10kHz 20kHz  
LOW  
LOW  
LOW  
LOW  
LOW  
31  
80Hz  
80Hz  
80Hz  
80Hz  
80Hz  
-15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
1
1
1
1
1
28. HIGH MID EQ LEVEL (Ch. 3 and 4)  
The high mid EQ provides up to 15 dB of boost or cut  
at 2.5 kHz, and it is flat at the detent.  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
32  
33  
2
2
2
2
2
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
29. LOW MID EQ LEVEL (Ch. 3 and 4)  
The low mid EQ provides up to 15 dB of boost or cut at  
400 Hz, and is flat at the detent.  
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
35  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
34  
36  
37  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
-
-
-
-
- 20  
20  
20  
20  
20  
30. MID EQ LEVEL (Ch. 5/6 and 7/8)  
The mid EQ provides up to 15 dB of boost or cut at  
2.5 kHz, and is flat at the detent.  
U
U
U
U
U
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
31. LOW EQ  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
OLO  
SOLO  
+15  
1
2
3-4  
5-6  
7-8  
The low EQ provides up to  
+10  
15 dB of boost or cut below  
+5  
80 Hz. The circuit is flat at the  
center detent position. This  
0
25. HIGH EQ  
–5  
–10  
+15  
The high EQ provides up to  
15 dB of boost or cut above  
12 kHz, and it is also flat (no  
boost or cut) at the detent. Use  
it to add sizzle to cymbals, an  
overall sense of transparency,  
frequency represents the punch  
in bass drums, bass guitar, fat  
synth patches, and some really serious male singers who  
eat raw beef for breakfast.  
–15  
+10  
+5  
0
20Hz  
100Hz  
1kHz  
10kHz 20kHz  
–5  
–10  
–15  
20Hz  
100Hz  
1kHz  
10kHz 20kHz  
or an edge to keyboards, vocals, guitar and bacon frying.  
Turn it down a little to reduce sibilance or to mask tape  
hiss.  
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32. AUX SEND 1 and 2  
34. MUTE switch and ALT 3–4  
These controls allow you to set up two independent  
mixes, typically for running stage monitors or external  
effects processors.  
The dual-purpose mute/alt 3-4 switch is a Mackie  
signature. When Greg was designing our first product,  
he had to include a mute switch for each channel. Mute  
switches do just what they sound like they do. They turn  
off the signal by “routing” it into oblivion. “Gee, what  
a waste,” he reasoned. “Why not have the mute button  
route the signal somewhere else useful, like a separate  
stereo bus?”  
The controls are off when turned fully down, deliver  
unity gain at the center, and can provide up to 15 dB  
of gain turned fully up. Chances are that you will never  
need this extra gain, but it’s nice to know it’s there if  
you do.  
So mute/alt 3-4 really serves two functions—muting  
(often used during mixdown or live shows), and signal  
routing (for multitrack and live work) where it acts as  
an extra stereo bus.  
Aux Send 1 and 2 [12] are line-level outputs, and  
are used if you want to connect external processors,  
powered stage monitors, or external power amps with  
passive stage monitors. Aux Return 1 and 2 [13] are  
line-level inputs, typically used to return the output  
from external processors back to the main mix.  
To use this as a mute switch, all you have to do is not  
use the alt 3-4 outputs [7]. Then, whenever you assign a  
channel to these unused outputs, you’ll also be  
disconnecting it from the main mix, effectively  
muting the channel. The mute switch also disconnects  
the channel from the post-fader aux send bus. The  
channel’s signal is still present on the pre-fader aux  
send bus, so muting a channel does not affect your stage  
monitors.  
Carefully adjust how much of each channel appears  
in your aux mixes. For example, if you are running stage  
monitors, and someone wants "more me, and less them,"  
adjust these carefully.  
The aux sends can either be pre or post fader,  
depending on the position of the aux pre/post switches  
[46]. For stage monitor work, use pre, so the stage  
monitors do not increase in volume when the channel  
level is adjusted. For external processors, use post. In  
this way, the feed to external processors will vary with  
the channel level, keeping them in the same ratio  
(wet/dry).  
To use this as an alt 3-4 switch, all you have to do is  
connect the alt 3-4 outputs to whatever destination you  
desire. Here are two popular examples:  
When doing multitrack recording, you can use the  
alt 3-4 outputs as a stereo or dual-mono feed to your  
multitrack.  
33. PAN  
When doing live sound or mixdown, it’s often handy  
to control the level of several channels with one knob.  
That’s called subgrouping. Simply assign these channels  
to the alt 3-4 mix, engage alt 3-4 in the control room/  
phones source matrix [39], and the signals will appear  
For mono channels 1 and 2, this control allows you to  
adjust how much of the channel signal goes to the left  
main mix, and how much goes to the right main mix.  
It has no effect on the aux, as these are mono. In the  
center position, the mono channel is split equally to the at the control room [6] and phones [17] outputs. If you  
left and right.  
want the alt 3-4 signals to go back into the main mix,  
engage the assign to main mix switch [40] and the  
control room knob [41] controls the levels of all the  
channels assigned to alt 3-4.  
Pan also affects the channel output to the Alt 3–4 mix  
if a channel mute switch is engaged.  
For channels 3 to 8, pan acts in a similar way to a  
home stereo balance control (panning left turns down  
the right channel, and panning right turns down the left  
channel).  
Another way to do the same thing is to assign the  
channels to the alt 3-4 mix, then patch out of the  
alt 3-4 out (left/3 and right/4) back into an unused  
stereo channel (5-6, or 7-8). If that’s your choice, don’t  
ever engage the mute/alt 3-4 switch on that stereo  
channel, or you’ll have every dog in the neighborhood  
howling at your feedback loop.  
If you have a stereo source and the mixer's stereo  
inputs are already taken, connect the source's left  
output into channel 1, and the right into channel 2. Pan  
the channel 1 fully left, and channel 2 fully right, then  
the source will appear in the main mix in full stereo.  
Another benefit of the alt 3-4 feature is that it can act  
as an “afl” (after fader listen). Just engage a channel’s  
mute/alt 3-4 switch and the alt 3-4 switch in the source  
matrix and you’ll get that channel, all by itself, in the  
control room and headphones.  
The pan control employs a design called “Constant  
Loudness.” If you have a channel panned hard left (or  
right) and then pan to the center, the signal is  
attenuated about 3 dB to maintain the same apparent  
loudness. Otherwise, it would make the sound appear  
much louder when panned center.  
Owner's Manual 21  
This is not to be confused with pan, the famous steel  
drums of the tropical island paradise of Woodinville.  
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correctly for your input device, and that the channel EQ  
is not set with too much boost.  
1
2
3-4  
AUX SEND  
AUX RETU  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
1
L
1
The –20 LED comes on when the channel signal  
strength has reached that level.  
(MONO)  
8
9
13  
12  
2
R
36. LEVEL  
INSERT  
INSERT  
L
(MONO)  
LINE IN 5-6  
LINE IN 7-8  
BAL/UNBAL  
This is the last control in a channel’s signal path, and  
it adjusts the level of each channel onto the main mix.  
The “U” mark indicates unity gain, meaning no increase  
or decrease of signal level. All the way up provides an  
additional 10 dB, should you need to boost a section of  
a song. If you find that the overall level is too quiet or  
too loud with the level near unity, check that the gain  
control [23] is set correctly.  
1
2
R
L
L
10  
18  
LINE  
LINE  
(MONO)  
(MONO)  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
LINE  
+4dB  
LINE  
-
HI Z  
-10dB  
21  
R
R
48V  
48V  
48V  
19  
30  
30  
30  
U
U
20  
U
U
20  
40  
60  
20  
U
40  
60  
40  
60  
20  
U
MIC  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
23  
0dB +40dB  
-20dB +40dB  
-20dB +20dB  
-20dB +20dB  
22  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
INPUT  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
37. SOLO  
24  
LINE  
FW 1-2  
U
U
U
U
U
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
Whenever a solo switch is engaged, you will only hear  
the soloed channel(s) in the headphones and control  
room. This gives you the opportunity to audition the  
channels before they are added to the main mix or alt  
3–4 mix. You can still hear, even when the level is down.  
HIGH  
HIGH  
HIGH  
HIGH  
HIGH  
25  
26  
12kHz  
12kHz  
12kHz  
12kHz  
12kHz  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
1k  
1k  
U
HIGH  
MID  
FREQ  
FRE
U
U
U
U
28  
2.5KHz  
100  
8k  
100  
8k  
-15  
+15  
+15  
+15  
MID  
MID  
U
U
U
U
U
2.5kHz  
2.5kHz  
30  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
LOW  
MID  
MID  
MID  
Solo is also used to set the gain of each channel  
correctly. When a channel is soloed, you can adjust the  
channel gain [23] until your input source reaches the  
level of the 0 dB LED of the right meter.  
27  
29  
400Hz  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
U
LOW  
LOW  
LOW  
LOW  
LOW  
31  
80Hz  
80Hz  
80Hz  
80Hz  
80Hz  
-15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
Solo signals reaching the headphones and  
control room are not affected by the channel  
level or main level; therefore, turn down the  
phones level [42] and control room level [41] first, as  
soloed channels may be loud.  
1
1
1
1
1
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
32  
33  
2
2
2
2
2
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
The rude solo light [44] will turn on as a reminder  
that what you are listening to in the headphones and  
control room is just the soloed channel(s).  
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
35  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
34  
36  
37  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
For stereo channels, the mono sum of the left and  
right is soloed.  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
-
-
-
-
- 20  
20  
20  
20  
20  
U
U
U
U
U
Soloed channels are sent to the source mix, which  
ultimately feeds your control room, phones, and meters.  
Whenever solo is engaged, all source selections (main  
mix, alt 3-4, tape, and FireWire) are defeated, to allow  
the soloed signal to do just that—solo!  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
OLO  
SOLO  
1
2
3-4  
5-6  
7-8  
Dear Betty,  
All this talk of solo reminded me of how happy we  
could be together. Let us be married this afternoon, in  
the bass amp section of the guitar store where we met!  
No longer will I be that guy at the company party who  
talks about EQ all evening. No longer will I spend my  
time in music stores telling everyone that "I wrote the  
manual for that!" Let me be your main mix!  
35. –20 and OL LEDs  
These LEDs indicate the channel’s signal level after  
the gain and EQ controls, but just before the channel’s  
level. So even if the level is turned down, you can see if  
a signal is present, or if the channel is being overloaded.  
The OL (overload) LED will come on when the  
channel’s input signal is too high. This should be  
avoided, as distortion will occur. If the OL LED comes  
on regularly, check that the gain control [23] is set  
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the FireWire connection from your computer. Alt 3-4 is  
the additional stereo mix bus formed when any channel  
is muted with the mute/alt 3-4 switch [34].  
CTRL ROOM/PHONES  
SOURCE  
0dB=0dBu  
L
R
CLIP  
20  
15  
10  
6
Selections made here deliver stereo signals to the  
control room, phones, and meters. With no switches or  
main mix [38] engaged, there will be no signal at these  
outputs and no meter indication.  
38  
MAIN MIX  
39  
43  
TAPE  
3
The exception is the solo function. Regardless of  
the source matrix selection, engaging a channel’s solo  
switch will replace that selection with the solo signal,  
sent to the control room, phones, and the right meter.  
0
-
FW 1-2  
ALT 3 4  
2
LEVEL  
SET  
4
7
40  
40. ASSIGN TO MAIN MIX  
10  
20  
30  
ASSIGN TO  
MAIN MIX  
Let’s say you’re doing a live show. "You're doing a live  
show." Intermission is nearing and you want to play a  
soothing CD for the crowd to prevent them from  
becoming antsy. Simply engage this switch and your  
source matrix selection, after going through the control  
room level control, will feed into the main mix, just as if  
it were another stereo channel.  
41  
42  
O O  
O O  
MAX  
MAX  
RUDE  
SOLO  
CONTROL  
ROOM  
PHONES  
44  
What if you have a playlist of MP3 files on your  
computer you want to play during the break? Engage  
the FireWire button to play your MP3s directly from your  
computer, through the source matrix, and into the main  
mix.  
Control Room/Phones and  
Meters  
Typically, the engineer sends the main mix to an  
audience (for a live show) or to a mixdown deck (if  
recording). But what if the engineer needs to hear  
something other than the main mix in the control room  
or headphones? With the Onyx 820i, the engineer has  
several choices of what to listen to. This is one of those  
tricky parts, so buckle up.  
Another handy use for this switch is to enable the  
alt 3-4 mix to become a submix of the main mix, using  
the control room level control.  
Side effects to engaging this switch:  
1. It will also feed any soloed channels into the  
main mix, which may be the last thing you  
want.  
38. MAIN MIX  
2. If you have main mix as your source matrix  
selection and then engage this switch, the main  
mix lines to the source matrix will be  
Press this switch in to listen to the main mix in your  
control room and headphones, and to check the main  
mix levels in the meters. In addition to the main mix,  
you can listen to any combination of tape, FW 1-2 and  
alt 3-4, depending on which of these switches [39] is  
engaged.  
disconnected from the control room and phones  
outputs, to prevent feedback.  
3. If you have tape as your source matrix  
selection, and then engage this switch, it can  
create a feedback path between tape in and  
tape out. Make sure your tape deck is not in  
record, record-pause, or input monitor mode  
when you engage these switches, or make sure  
the control room knob [41] is turned all the  
way down.  
If the assign to main mix switch [40] is  
engaged, you cannot hear the main mix in the  
control room or headphones, or see its level  
on the meters. This is to prevent feedback caused by  
sending the main mix to the main mix.  
39. TAPE, FW 1-2, ALT 3-4  
41. CONTROL ROOM Knob  
Using these source switches, you can choose to listen  
to any combination of alt 3-4, tape, and FireWire in the  
control room and headphones, in addition to the main  
mix if its switch [38] is engaged.  
This controls the volume at the control room outputs,  
from off to maximum gain (+10 dB). It also controls the  
level of the control room signal going to the main outs  
when assign to main mix [40] is selected.  
Tape is the stereo signal coming in from the tape in  
RCA jacks. FireWire is a 2-track feed coming in through  
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42. PHONES Knob  
This controls the volume at the phones output, from  
off to maximum gain.  
CTRL ROOM/PHONES  
SOURCE  
0dB=0dBu  
L
R
CLIP  
20  
15  
10  
6
38  
WARNING: The headphone amp is loud, and  
can cause permanent hearing damage. Even  
intermediate levels may be painfully loud  
MAIN MIX  
with some headphones. BE CAREFUL! Always turn this  
control all the way down before connecting headphones,  
or pressing a solo switch [37], or doing anything new  
that may affect the headphone volume. Then turn it up  
slowly as you listen carefully.  
39  
43  
TAPE  
3
0
-
FW 1-2  
ALT 3 4  
2
LEVEL  
SET  
4
7
40  
43. LEFT/RIGHT Level Meters  
10  
20  
30  
ASSIGN TO  
MAIN MIX  
These peak meters are made up of two columns of  
twelve LEDs, with three colors to indicate different  
ranges of signal level, traffic light style. They range from  
–30 at the bottom, to 0 in the middle, to +20 (CLIP) at  
the top.  
41  
42  
O O  
O O  
MAX  
MAX  
RUDE  
SOLO  
CONTROL  
ROOM  
PHONES  
44  
If no source [38, 39] is selected in the control room/  
phones, and no channels are in solo, the meters won’t do  
anything. To display signal levels, select one or more of  
the sources. For example, press main mix [38] to show  
the main mix level in the meters. While the listening  
levels are controlled by the control room and phones  
knobs, the meters indicate the source mix before these  
knobs, giving you the real facts at all times, even if  
you’re not listening at all.  
AUX MASTER  
SEND  
RETURN  
48  
1
2
1
2
PRE  
POST  
O
15  
0  
RTN TO  
AUX1  
45  
47  
46  
49  
51  
PRE  
O O  
O O  
+15  
+10  
POST  
When a channel is soloed, the left meter shows no  
reading, and the right meter shows the level of that  
channel’s signal level, pre-fader. The right meter's 0 dB  
LED is labeled "level set" to show where the level should  
be when adjusting a channel’s gain [23] in the solo  
mode (as described in “Set the Levels” on page 3).  
AUX SEND 1-2  
TO FW 5-6  
50  
POWER  
When 0 dBu (0.775 V) is at the main mix outputs, it  
shows as 0 dB on the meters.  
56  
55  
52  
ASSIGN TO  
FW 7-8  
O O  
MAX  
You can get a good mix with peaks flashing anywhere  
between –20 and +10 dB on the meters. Most amplifiers  
clip at about +10 dBu, and some recorders aren’t so  
forgiving either. For best real-world results, try to keep  
your peaks between “0” and “+6.” Remember, audio  
meters are just tools to help assure you that your levels  
are “in the ballpark.” You don’t have to stare at them  
(unless you want to).  
LEVEL  
MIC  
U
DESTINATION  
53  
54  
O O  
+10dB  
AUX 1-2  
PHONES  
44. RUDE SOLO Light  
TALKBACK  
MAIN MIX  
This large LED flashes when one or more channel solo  
switches are engaged [37]. This acts as a reminder that  
what you hear in the control room and headphones is  
the soloed channel(s). If you forget you’re in solo mode,  
you can easily be tricked into thinking that something  
is wrong with your mixer. Hence, the rude solo light.  
Please forgive its rudeness, it is only trying to help, and  
wants to be your friend.  
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For external processors, use post. In this way, the feed  
to external processors will vary with the channel level,  
keeping them in the same ratio, so that the “wet” signal  
level follows the “dry” signal level.  
Aux Master  
This section includes the aux sends and the aux  
returns. Aux sends tap signals off the channels, via the  
aux knobs [32], mix these signals from each channel  
together, then sends them out the aux send jacks [12]  
and FireWire outputs 7 and 8. The aux sends can be pre-  
fader or post-fader (both are post-EQ, but see page 39).  
47. MASTER AUX RETURN 1 and 2  
These two controls set the overall level of effects  
received from the stereo aux return 1 and 2 inputs [13].  
These controls range from off to +10 db of gain when  
fully clockwise, to compensate for low-level effects.  
Post-fader aux sends can be fed to the inputs of an  
external processor like a reverb or digital delay. From  
there, the outputs of this external processor are fed  
back to the mixer’s aux return jacks [13]. Then these  
signals are sent through the aux return level controls  
[47], and finally delivered to the main mix.  
Signals passing through these controls go directly to  
the main mix bus where they are combined with the  
other channels. Alternatively, the aux 2 return can be  
routed to aux 1 send instead, using the rtn to aux 1  
switch [48].  
So, the original unprocessed “dry” signals go from  
the channels to the main mix, and the processed “wet”  
signals go from the aux returns to the main mix, and  
once mixed together, the dry and wet signals combine to  
create a glorious sound!  
48. RTN TO AUX 1  
This switch routes the signal from aux return 2 to the  
aux 1 send mix instead of to the main mix bus.  
Pre-fader aux sends are typically used to provide  
another mix for stage monitors. In this case, the aux  
returns aren’t used to return the signal. Instead, they  
can be used as additional stereo inputs, or not used  
at all.  
For example, this allows you to use an external effects  
device, like a reverb or delay, exclusively for the  
monitors. When this switch is pushed in, the effects  
signals coming into the aux return 2 jacks are added to  
your aux 1 stage monitor mix. Adjust the effects level  
coming in with the aux 2 return controls [47], until it  
sounds just right in your monitors.  
45. MASTER AUX SEND 1 and 2  
These knobs provide overall control over the aux send  
levels, just before they are delivered to the aux send  
outputs [12]. These knobs go from off to +15 db when  
turned all the way up.  
49. AUX SEND 1-2 to FW 5-6  
This switch allows you to send a copy of the aux  
send 1 and 2 outputs via FireWire to a computer. The  
FireWire output is affected by the channel aux send and  
master aux send controls.  
The aux sends can either be pre or post fader,  
depending on the position of the aux pre/post  
switches [46].  
For example, you can set up a software effects  
processor as follows:  
This is usually the knob you turn up when the lead  
singer glares at you, points at his stage monitor, and  
sticks his thumb up in the air. (It would follow that if  
the singer stuck his thumb down, you’d turn the knob  
down, but that never happens.)  
• Set up an aux send in post mode.  
• Engage this switch to make aux send FireWire  
outputs 5 and 6 available to your computer.  
• Pass this through a software effects processor  
or plug-in of your choice.  
The aux sends can also be sent to FireWire output 7  
and 8 for recording. The levels to FireWire are affected  
by these send controls and the pre/post switch.  
• Return the processed output from the effects  
processor to mixer channels 7 and 8 (input  
switch set to FW 1-2).  
46. PRE/POST  
• Alternatively bring the processed sounds into  
the control room matrix (engage FW 1-2) and  
add it to the main mix (engage assign to main  
mix).  
The pre/post switches determine whether the aux  
send signal is tapped from the channels before the  
channel level controls (pre-fader) or after (post-fader).  
Having a separate pre/post switch for each aux is a  
super-useful feature as it allows the use of one effects  
processor and one stage monitor chain, at the same  
time.  
• You can even use the computer as two separate  
independent mono in, stereo out processors.  
Have aux 1 go into one plug-in, and aux 2 go  
into a different one. The stereo outputs of both  
plug-ins are combined back into the stereo  
stream coming back to the mixer.  
For stage monitor work, use pre, so the stage  
monitors do not increase in volume when the channel  
level is adjusted.  
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50. POWER LED  
CTRL ROOM/PHONES  
SOURCE  
0dB=0dBu  
This green LED will turn on when the mixer is turned  
on, as a reminder of how on it really is. If it is not on,  
then it is off, and the mixer becomes a rather nice  
weight for keeping your morning newspaper from  
blowing away in the wind.  
L
R
CLIP  
20  
15  
10  
6
38  
MAIN MIX  
If it does not turn on, make sure the power cord is  
correctly inserted at both ends, the local AC mains  
supply is active, and the power switch [2] is on.  
39  
43  
TAPE  
3
0
-
FW 1-2  
ALT 3 4  
2
LEVEL  
SET  
4
Talkback  
7
40  
10  
20  
30  
ASSIGN TO  
MAIN MIX  
The talkback feature allows the engineer to  
communicate with the talent either through the phones  
outputs [17] or the aux 1-2 send outputs [12] using  
the built-in talkback microphone. This saves a lot of  
shouting over the audience's heads as you set up the  
talented one's stage monitors to their peculiarly-picky  
satisfaction.  
41  
42  
O O  
O O  
MAX  
MAX  
RUDE  
SOLO  
CONTROL  
ROOM  
PHONES  
44  
AUX MASTER  
51. TALKBACK MIC  
SEND  
RETURN  
This is where the built-in talkback microphone is  
located. It is an omni-directional dynamic microphone,  
and it will pick up your voice from anywhere in front of  
the mixer.  
48  
1
2
1
2
PRE  
POST  
O
15  
0  
RTN TO  
AUX1  
45  
47  
46  
49  
51  
52. TALKBACK LEVEL  
PRE  
POST  
O O  
O O  
+15  
+10  
Use this knob to control the level of the talkback  
signal being routed to the phones or aux 1-2 outputs,  
from the internal microphone.  
AUX SEND 1-2  
TO FW 5-6  
50  
POWER  
1. Start with this control turned down.  
2. Select the destination, either headphones  
and/or aux 1-2, and make sure their levels are  
already set nicely, such as phones [42] or aux  
sends [45].  
56  
55  
52  
ASSIGN TO  
FW 7-8  
O O  
MAX  
3. Hold down the talkback switch [54] as you  
make your fruity-toned announcements.  
LEVEL  
MIC  
U
4. Slowly turn this control up until you get  
confirmation from whoever is listening to  
headphones or monitors that they can hear and  
obey your every command.  
DESTINATION  
53  
54  
O O  
+10dB  
AUX 1-2  
PHONES  
Once you have set the level, you can leave it there for  
the duration of the session or gig.  
TALKBACK  
MAIN MIX  
53. DESTINATION: PHONES, AUX 1-2  
Push in the phones switch to route the talkback signal  
to the headphones. Use this to communicate with the  
talent in the studio through the headphones during a  
recording session. When the talkback circuit is  
activated by pushing the talkback [54] switch, the  
control room outputs [6] are attenuated to allow your  
voice to come through clearly.  
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The aux 1-2 switch routes the talkback signal to the  
aux send 1 and 2 outputs [12]. Use this to communicate  
with the musicians through their stage monitors when  
you are setting up a live performance.  
56. ASSIGN TO FW 7–8  
This switch allows you to assign the left and right  
main mix to FireWire outputs 7 and 8. For example, you  
can record the live performance main mix onto your  
computer. This does not affect the analog main mix  
outputs.  
It is fine to have both destination switches pushed in  
at the same time, so the talkback signal will be routed  
to both destinations. But if you don’t have either of the  
destination switches pushed in, the talkback signal  
won’t go anywhere. You might as well be talking to a  
brick wall.  
The output level to your computer is not affected by  
the main mix level control [55].  
When this switch is disengaged, then mixer  
channels 7 and 8 are assigned to FireWire  
outputs 7 and 8 instead.  
54. TALKBACK Switch  
This is a momentary switch, and as long as you hold  
it down, talkback is activated. You can talk into the  
built-in microphone and be heard in the headphones  
and/or stage monitors.  
Congratulations! You’ve just read about all the  
features of your mixer. Time for a frosty beverage.  
Release the switch so you can talk about the band  
without them hearing you.  
Main Mix  
55. MAIN MIX  
This stereo control allows you to adjust the levels of  
the main mix signals sent to the XLR and 1/4" main line-  
level outputs [4, 14], and the tape outputs [16].  
This gives you the ultimate feeling of power and  
control over the sound levels sent to your audience. If  
you press the main mix switch [38], you can see the  
main mix levels in the meters [43]. Adjust this control  
carefully, with your good eye on the meters to check  
against overloading, and your good ear to the levels to  
make sure your audience (if any) is happy.  
This control does not affect the aux outputs [12],  
alt 3-4 outputs [7], or the main mix FireWire outputs  
7-8. It affects the control room or headphones if the  
main mix switch [38] is engaged.  
The main mix signals are off with the knob fully down,  
the “U” marking is unity gain, and fully up provides  
10 dB of additional gain. This additional gain will  
typically never be needed, but once again, it’s nice to  
know that it’s there. The fader is stereo, as it affects  
both the left and right of the main mix equally. This is  
the ideal control to slowly bring down at the end of a  
song (or quickly in the middle of a song if the need ever  
arises).  
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Power  
Appendix A: Service  
Information  
• The power LED should come on if the mixer is  
connected to a suitable live AC mains outlet,  
and the power switch is on. Check to make sure  
that the power cord is securely plugged in.  
If you think your mixer has a problem, please check  
out the following troubleshooting tips and do your best  
to confirm the problem. Visit the Support section of our  
useful information such as FAQs, documentation and  
any updated PC drivers etc. You may find the answer to  
the problem without having to send your mixer away.  
Repair  
For warranty service, refer to the warranty  
information on page 41.  
Non-warranty service for Mackie products is  
available at a factory-authorized service center. To  
locate your nearest service center, visit  
a Service Center.” Service for Mackie products living  
outside the United States can be obtained through local  
dealers or distributors.  
Troubleshooting  
Bad Channel  
• Is the channel EQ set up nicely?  
• Is the channel gain set correctly?  
• Is the channel level up enough?  
• Is the channel OL led on?  
If you do not have access to our website, you can  
call our Tech Support department at 1-800-898-3211,  
Monday-Friday, normal business hours, Pacific Time, to  
explain the problem. Tech Support will tell you where  
the nearest factory-authorized service center is located  
in your area.  
• Is the channel pan set in the middle?  
• Are the hi-z instrument switches set OK for any  
guitars connected to channels 1 or 2?  
• Try unplugging any insert devices from the  
insert jacks on channels 1 or 2.  
• Try the same source signal in another channel,  
set up exactly like the suspect channel.  
• Is phantom power required for your  
microphone?  
Bad Output  
• Is the main level turned up?  
• Are the EQs set to reasonable levels?  
• Are any aux returns maxed out?  
• Unplug anything from the other line-level  
outputs, such as alt 3-4, control room out,  
just in case one of your external pieces has a  
problem.  
• Make sure that you are not overdriving your  
amplifiers. Check the loudspeaker average load  
impedance is not less than the minimum your  
amplifier can handle. Check the speaker wiring.  
Noise  
• Turn the channel gains down, one by one. If the  
sound disappears, it’s either that channel or  
whatever is plugged into it, so unplug whatever  
that is. If the noise disappears, it’s from your  
whatever.  
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Appendix B: Connections  
“XLR” Connectors  
• Unbalanced Send/Return circuits. When wired  
as send/return “Y” connector, a 1⁄4" TRS jack  
or plug is connected tip to signal send (output  
from mixer), ring to signal return (input back  
into mixer), and sleeve to ground (earth).  
Mackie mixers use 3-pin female “XLR” connectors on  
all microphone inputs, with pin 1 wired to the grounded  
(earthed) shield, pin 2 wired to the “high” (”hot” or  
positive polarity) side of the audio signal and pin 3  
wired to the “low” (“cold” or negative polarity) side of  
the signal. See Figure A.  
14" TS Phone Plugs and Jacks  
Use a male “XLR”-type connector, usually found on the  
nether end of what is called a “mic cable,” to connect to  
a female XLR jack.  
“TS” stands for Tip-Sleeve, the two connections  
available on a “mono” 1⁄4" phone jack or plug.  
See Figure C.  
2
SHIELD  
HOT  
TS jacks and plugs are used in many different  
applications, always unbalanced. The tip is connected to  
the audio signal and the sleeve to ground (earth). Some  
examples:  
1
3
COLD  
SHIELD  
1
3
COLD  
2
HOT  
SLEEVE  
SLEEVE  
TIP  
SHIELD  
COLD  
HOT  
1
3
TIP  
2
TIP  
SLEEVE  
Figure A: XLR Connectors  
Figure C: TS Plug  
14" TRS Phone Plugs and Jacks  
• Unbalanced microphones  
• Electric guitars and electronic instruments  
• Unbalanced line-level connections  
• Speaker connections  
“TRS” stands for Tip-Ring-Sleeve, the three  
connections available on a “stereo” 14" or “balanced”  
phone jack or plug. See Figure B.  
Don’t use guitar cords for speaker cables!  
They’re not designed to handle speaker-level  
signals and could overheat.  
TRS jacks and plugs are used in several different  
applications:  
RING SLEEVE  
TIP  
SLEEVE RING TIP  
RCA Plugs and Jacks  
RING  
TIP  
RCA-type plugs (also known as phono plugs) and  
jacks are often used in home stereo and video  
equipment and in many other applications (Figure D).  
They are unbalanced and electrically identical to a  
1⁄4" TS phone plug or jack. See Figure C. Connect the  
signal to the center post and the ground (earth) or  
shield to the surrounding “basket.”  
SLEEVE  
Figure B: 14" TRS Plugs  
• Balanced mono circuits. When wired as a  
balanced connector, a 1⁄4" TRS jack or plug  
is connected tip to signal high (hot), ring to  
signal low (cold), and sleeve to ground (earth).  
SLEEVE TIP SLEEVE TIP  
• Stereo Headphones, and rarely, stereo  
microphones and stereo line connections.  
When wired for stereo, a 1⁄4" TRS jack or plug is  
connected tip to left, ring to right and sleeve to  
ground (earth). Mackie mixers do not directly  
accept 1-plug-type stereo microphones. They  
must be separated into a left cord and a right  
cord, which are plugged into two mic preamps.  
Figure D: RCA Plug  
Figure E: Does not appear in this owner's manual, due  
to a contractual obligation, but performs nightly at the  
downtown Woodinville Cocoa Rooms and Tea Bar  
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TRS Send/Receive Insert Jacks  
Mackie’s single-jack inserts are the three-conductor,  
TRS 1⁄4" phone type. They are unbalanced, but have  
both the mixer output (send) and the mixer input  
(return) signals in one connector. See Figure F.  
SEND to processor  
ring  
“tip”  
(TRS plug)  
tip  
sleeve  
This plug connects to one of the  
mixers Channel Insert jacks.  
“ring”  
RETURN from processor  
Figure F  
The sleeve is the common ground (earth) for both  
signals. The send from the mixer to the external unit is  
carried on the tip, and the return from the unit to the  
mixer is on the ring.  
Using the Send-only on an Insert Jack  
If you insert a TS (mono) 1⁄4" plug only partially (to  
the first click) into a Mackie insert jack, the plug will  
not activate the jack switch and will not open the insert  
loop in the circuit (thereby allowing the channel signal  
to continue on its merry way through the mixer).  
This allows you to tap out the channel signal without  
interrupting normal operation.  
If you push the 1⁄4" TS plug in to the second click, you  
will open the jack switch and create a direct out, which  
does interrupt the signal in that channel. See Figure G.  
NOTE: Do not overload or short-circuit the signal you  
are tapping from the mixer. That will affect the internal  
signal.  
MONO PLUG  
Channel Insert jack  
Direct out with no signal interruption to master.  
Insert only to first “click.”  
MONO PLUG  
Channel Insert jack  
Direct out with signal interruption to master.  
Insert all the way in to the second “click.”  
STEREO  
PLUG  
Channel Insert jack  
For use as an effects loop.  
(TIP = SEND to effect, RING = RETURN from effect.)  
Figure G  
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Appendix C: Technical Information  
Specifications  
Noise Characteristics:  
Attenuation and Crosstalk:  
Equivalent Input Noise (EIN), mic input at insert, 150 Ω source  
impedance, 20 to 20 kHz:  
1 kHz relative to 0 dBu, 20 Hz to 20 kHz  
Main Mix knob down:  
-80 dBu  
60 dB (max) gain:  
40 dB gain:  
-127 dBu  
-126.5 dBu  
Channel Alt/Mute switch engaged:  
Channel Level knob down:  
-90 dBu  
-80 dBu  
Equivalent Input Noise (EIN), mic input at insert, 50 Ω source  
impedance, A-weighted:  
Common Mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR):  
Mic input to insert, max gain, 1 kHz, 150 ohm termination:  
-70 dB  
60 dB (max) gain:  
40 dB gain:  
-130.5 dBu  
-130 dBu  
Output Noise Figure (1/4" Main out, all channels assigned to  
main, Gain knobs at unity, 20 Hz to 30 kHz):  
Maximum Input Levels:  
Mic input, gain at min (0 dB):  
Mic input, gain at max (60 dB):  
Line input, gain at -20 dB:  
Instrument input, gain at -20 dB:  
Tape input:  
+22 dBu  
–38 dBu  
+22 dBu  
+22 dBu  
+12 dBu  
+22 dBu  
Main Mix knob down, channel Level knobs down:  
-107 dBu (-111 dB SNR,  
ref +4 dBu)  
Main Mix knob unity, channel Level knobs down:  
-95.5 dBu (-99.5 dB  
SNR, ref +4 dBu)  
Aux return:  
Main Mix knob unity, channel Level knobs unity:  
-91.5 dBu (-95.5 dB  
Maximum Output Levels:  
SNR, ref +4 dBu)  
All outputs:  
+22 dBu  
FireWire Through (Record + Playback) Dynamic Range:  
0 dBu mic input, to DAW, routed back to mixer direct to Control  
Room, all gain stages unity, 20 Hz to 20 kHz:  
Equalization  
Mono Channels  
Low:  
44.1 kHz sample rate:  
96 kHz sample rate:  
-104 dB  
-106.5 dB  
15 dB at 80 Hz  
100 Hz to 8 kHz  
15 dB  
Mid frequency:  
Mid gain:  
High:  
Frequency Response:  
Mic input to any output (all gain stages at unity):  
+0/-0.5 dB,  
15 dB at 12 kHz  
Hybrid Channel:  
Low:  
20 Hz to 20 kHz  
15 dB at 80 Hz  
15 dB at 400 Hz  
15 dB at 2.5 kHz  
15 dB at 12 kHz  
Stereo channel line input to any output (all gain stages unity):  
+0/-0.5 dB,  
20 Hz to 20 kHz  
Low Mid:  
High Mid:  
High:  
FireWire in and out (mic input to FireWire send, returned to  
Control Room, all gain stages at unity):  
Stereo Channels:  
Low:  
44.1 kHz sample rate:  
+/-0.5 dB,  
20 Hz to 20 kHz  
-3 dB at 21 kHz  
15 dB at 80 Hz  
15 dB at 2.5 kHz  
15 dB at 12 kHz  
Mid:  
96 kHz sample rate:  
+/-0.5 dB,  
20 Hz to 20 kHz  
-3 dB at 45 kHz  
High:  
FireWire  
Sample Rates Available:  
44.1 kHz, 48 kHz,  
88.2 kHz, 96 kHz  
Distortion (THD+N):  
20 Hz to 20 kHz, 20 Hz to 80 kHz bandwidth  
Buffer Size:  
Resolution:  
32 (44.1 kHz and 48 kHz  
only), 64, 128, 256, 512,  
1024, 2048 samples  
Mic input at insert  
(+4 dBu in, 0 dB gain, +4 dBu out): 0.001%  
Mic input at insert  
(-36 dBu in, +40 dB gain, +4 dBu out):0.007%  
24-bit  
Stereo channel line input to any output  
(+4 dBu in, all gain stages at unity +4 dBu out): 0.005%  
FireWire in and out (+4 dBu in, mic input to FireWire send,  
returned to Control Room, all gain stages at unity):  
44.1 kHz sample rate:  
0.01%, 20 Hz to 2 kHz  
0.02%, 2 kHz to 20 kHz  
96 kHz sample rate:  
0.01%, 10 Hz to 1 kHz  
0.03%, 1 kHz to 47 kHz  
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VU Meters  
Options:  
2-segment pre-fader channel meters:  
Rack Mount Kit  
OL (+18 dBu), -20 dBu  
12-segment pre-fader Control Room meters:  
OL (+20 dBu), +15, +10,  
LOUD Technologies Inc. is always striving to improve our products  
by incorporating new and improved materials, components, and  
manufacturing methods. Therefore, we reserve the right to change  
these specifications at any time without notice.  
+6, +3, 0, -2, -4, -7, -10,  
-20, -30 (0 VU = 0 dBu)  
“Mackie,” and the “Running Man” are registered trademarks of LOUD  
Technologies Inc. All other brand names mentioned are trademarks  
or registered trademarks of their respective holders, and are hereby  
acknowledged.  
Input Impedance:  
Mic input:  
2.8 kΩ balanced  
Hi-Z input:  
1 MΩ unbalanced  
The technical writer responsible for this manual thinks that his  
editor has a fake British accent. Please check our website for any  
Mono channel line input:  
30 kΩ balanced  
15 kΩ unbalanced  
Stereo Channel line input:  
20 kΩ balanced  
10 kΩ unbalanced  
©2010 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved.  
Output Impedance:  
Main XLR output:  
Phones output:  
100 Ω balanced  
75 Ω  
All other outputs:  
300 Ω  
AC Power Requirements:  
Power Consumption:  
25 watts  
Universal AC Power Supply:  
100 VAC – 240 VAC,  
50-60 Hz  
Physical Dimensions and Weight  
Height:  
14.2 in/361 mm  
9.0 in/229 mm  
3.8 in/96 mm  
10.0 lb/4.4 kg  
Width  
Depth:  
Weight:  
Dimensions  
1W0E.0IGHlbT  
4.5 kg  
3.7 in/  
94 mm  
LINE  
LINE  
48V  
48V  
48V  
48V  
48V  
48V  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
9.0 in/ 229 mm  
19.0 in/ 482.6 mm  
(with optional rack ears)  
1.6 in / 40.6 mm  
32 Onyx 820i  
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BlockDiagram  
SoloLogic  
Solo(PFL)  
Aux 2 (post)  
Aux 2 (pre)  
Aux 1 (post)  
Aux 1 (pre)  
SoloLogic  
Solo(PFL)  
Aux 2 (post)  
Aux 2 (pre)  
Aux 1 (post)  
Aux 1 (pre)  
R/4  
R/4  
Alt  
Alt  
L/3  
L/3  
R
R
Main  
Main  
L
L
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Appendix D: Rack Ear installation instructions  
The optional Rack Ear Kit allows the Onyx 820i mixer  
to be mounted in a standard 19” rack. It will be out of  
harm’s way and the band may continue tearin’ it up  
without fearing any consequences. The mixer takes up  
nine rack spaces. Be sure to allow for an extra space or  
two above to make connections. The kit contains two  
rack ear brackets and eight black screws (M3.5 x 8mm).  
3. Remove the eight silver screws as shown below,  
wrap them up in an old sock, and keep them in  
a safe place for further use.  
4. Using only the new screws supplied, secure the  
rack ear brackets to each side of the mixer as  
shown. Hand-tighten the screws securely. The  
brackets are identical, so it does not matter  
which one goes on which side.  
Tools Required:  
5. Offer up the mixer to the rack and secure it  
in place with four rack screws (not supplied).  
Remember to leave enough room at the top to  
attach the AC power cord and any other con-  
nections needed.  
One phillips screwdriver, two bales of hay, cheese and  
crackers, and a box of wine (optional).  
Procedure:  
6. This might be a good time to sit on one of the  
bales of hay and enjoy the cheese, crackers, and  
boxed wine!  
1. Turn off the mixer and disconnect all cords.  
2. Place the mixer face up on a soft and dry flat  
surface.  
7. Cross this off the ‘to do’ list and move on to the  
next project.  
34 Onyx 820i  
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Appendix E: FireWire  
The mixer comes with a CD containing the PC driver  
software needed to use your mixer's internal FireWire  
interface with Windows XP or Windows Vista.  
3. The Windows application will start its "Found  
New Hardware" wizard. Select "Locate and  
install driver software."  
Mac OS X contains built-in drivers, so no software  
installation is required.  
Before installing the drivers from the CD,  
please check our website in case there are any  
updated drivers available. These will come with  
their own installation instructions which will  
supercede those shown here.  
The CD that contains the PC driver software  
is the same CD that this owner's manual PDF  
is on. So if you have not browsed the CD and  
looked at this owner's manual, you will not be  
reading this yet. Its a bit of a paradox really,  
because didn't you just read it? Like this bit of  
text right now? Hmm..  
4. In the details that follow, ignore any attempt to  
connect to Windows Update to find the  
software. You will be prompted to insert the CD  
that came with your mixer.  
Mackie Windows FireWire Audio Driver  
Installation Instructions  
System Requirements  
Windows XP SP 2 or greater (Home and Pro)  
Windows Vista 32 RTM or greater (Home, Business,  
and Ultimate)  
Installation for Windows Vista  
1. Connect the FireWire cable from your Onyx  
820i to the computer.  
5. Check the box: "Always trust software from  
LOUD Technologies Inc.  
2. Power on your Onyx 820i, or make sure it is  
powered on.  
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6. Select "Install," and the driver software will be  
installed.  
Installation for Windows XP  
1. Connect the FireWire cable from your Onyx  
820i to the computer.  
2. Power on your Onyx 820i .  
3. The Windows XP application will start its  
“Found New Hardware” wizard.  
7. The following message confirms that the driver  
software has been successfully installed.  
4. Ignore any attempt to connect to Windows  
Update to find the software, by checking the  
"No, not at this time" button. Select "Next."  
The audio interface is now ready to use with the  
Digital Audio Workstation software of choice, as well as  
with consumer audio applications such as iTunes® or  
Windows Media Player.  
5. Insert the CD that came with your Onyx 820i  
(if you haven't already).  
6. Select “Install the software automatically.”  
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7. Select the “Next” command and the driver  
software will begin installing.  
10. The following message confirms that the new  
software has been installed successfully and  
that the found new hardware wizard is  
complete.  
8. When Windows presents you with a warning  
about the software not having passed Windows  
testing, select “Continue Anyway.”  
11. Pack yourself a big lunch and go for a nice walk  
outside. Have a picnic and lie back and dream.  
Things are going to be so good now.  
The audio interface is now ready to use with the  
Digital Audio Workstation software of your dreams,  
as well as with consumer audio applications such as  
iTunes® or Windows Media Player.  
A Note on Available Buffer Sizes  
In general, you should always experiment with the  
available buffer sizes, to find the lowest buffer size that  
the machine and recording project can comfortably  
work with.  
9. Repeat steps 3-8 to allow a second driver to  
be installed. The found new hardware box will  
appear all over again, so follow these steps and  
you are almost done.  
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5. Here you can see the settings for the mixer.  
You can also choose it as your default input or  
output, as well as designate it to be used for  
system sound output. There are 8 channels of  
audio input from the Onyx 820i, and 2 channels  
of audio output to the Onyx 820i.  
USING THE ONYX 820i WITH A MAC  
The Onyx 820i works with Mac OS 10.4.11 and higher.  
This OS includes the Apple FireWire 2.0 driver. The  
Onyx 820i will only work with the 2.0 driver, so if you  
have an OS before 10.4.11, you will need to check your  
system for updates from the nice folks at Apple.  
1. Connect a FireWire cable from your Onyx 820i  
to a FireWire port on your Mac.  
2. Turn on your Onyx 820i.  
3. Go to the applications folder, open the utilities  
folder, and double-click “Audio MIDI Setup.”  
4. Click the Audio Devices tab, and select  
Onyx i in the “Properties For” drop-down box.  
6. The Sample Rate is also shown from 44.1 kHz,  
48 kHz, 88.2 kHz and 96 kHz.  
7. You’re ready to go with any Mac OS X Core  
Audio host application (i.e., Tracktion, Logic,  
Cubase, Nuendo, Live, Digital Performer, etc.).  
8. In your audio software applications, select and  
activate the inputs from the mixer and outputs  
to the mixer.  
38 Onyx 820i  
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Appendix F: Modifications  
The following modifications can be carried out on the  
Onyx 820i by an authorized service center. Authorized  
service centers may be found online at:  
Please contact our technical support department if you  
are having trouble finding an authorized service center  
in your area.  
The block diagram on page 33 shows these  
modifications as dotted lines in the channel signal flow.  
Modifications: Post-Insert FireWire Sends  
The pre-EQ channel FireWire sends are pre-insert,  
but the circuit board can be modified so that they are  
post-insert instead.  
For example, this allows for the use of an external  
processor on the mic signal, sending the result to the  
FireWire, while still being pre-EQ.  
Modifications: Post-Fader FireWire Sends  
The post-EQ channel FireWire sends are pre-fader,  
but the circuit board can be modified so that they are  
post-fader instead.  
This allows the channel level to control the level of  
the FireWire sends.  
Modification: Pre-EQ Aux Sends  
The pre-fader aux sends are post-EQ, so they are  
affected by the channel EQ controls. The circuit board  
can be modified so the pre-fader aux sends are pre-EQ  
instead of post-EQ.  
For example, your stage monitors will not be affected  
by any channel EQ adjustments.  
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Track Sheet  
1
2
3-4  
AUX SEND  
AUX RETURN  
MAIN OUT  
TAPE  
OUT  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
1
2
IN  
L
L
L
1
2
(MONO)  
R
R
R
INSERT  
INSERT  
L
(MONO)  
LINE IN 5-6  
LINE IN 7-8  
BAL/UNBAL  
1
BAL/UNBAL  
2
BAL/UNBAL  
R
L
L
LINE  
LINE  
(MONO)  
(MONO)  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
LINE  
HI Z  
LINE  
HI Z  
+
-10dB  
4dB  
LINE  
-
-
R
R
48V  
48V  
48V  
PREMIUM ANALOG MIXER w/ PERKINS EQ  
&
FIREWIRE  
CTRL ROOM/PHONES  
30  
30  
30  
U
U
U
U
0dB=0dBu  
SOURCE  
20  
U
40  
60  
20  
U
40  
60  
40  
60  
20  
U
MIC  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
GAIN  
L
R
GAIN  
CLIP  
20  
15  
10  
6
-20dB +40dB  
-20dB +20dB  
-20dB +40dB  
-20dB +20dB  
MAIN MIX  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
SEND  
INPUT  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
PRE  
POST  
LINE  
FW 1-2  
TAPE  
3
U
U
U
U
U
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
EQ  
0
HIGH  
HIGH  
HIGH  
HIGH  
HIGH  
-
FW 1-2  
ALT 3 4  
2
12kHz  
12kHz  
12kHz  
12kHz  
12kHz  
LEVEL  
SET  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
4
1k  
1k  
U
7
HIGH  
MID  
FREQ  
FREQ  
U
U
U
U
10  
20  
30  
ASSIGN TO  
MAIN MIX  
2.5KHz  
100  
8k  
100  
8k  
-15  
+15  
+15  
+15  
MID  
MID  
U
U
U
2.5kHz  
2.5kHz  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
LOW  
MID  
MID  
MID  
400Hz  
O O  
O O  
MAX  
MAX  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
-15  
+15  
+15  
-15  
RUDE  
SOLO  
CONTROL  
ROOM  
PHONES  
U
U
U
LOW  
LOW  
LOW  
LOW  
LOW  
80Hz  
80Hz  
80Hz  
80Hz  
80Hz  
AUX MASTER  
-15  
-15  
+15  
-15  
+15  
SEND  
RETURN  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
AUX  
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
PRE  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
MAX  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
+15  
+10  
+10  
POST  
RTN TO  
AUX1  
2
2
2
2
2
PRE  
POST  
O O  
O O  
O O  
O O  
+15  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
PAN  
AUX SEND 1-2  
TO FW 5-6  
POWER  
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
MUTE  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
OL  
ASSIGN TO  
FW 7-8  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
ALT 3-4  
O O  
MAX  
-
-
-
-
- 20  
20  
20  
20  
20  
LEVEL  
MIC  
U
U
U
U
U
U
DESTINATION  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
O O +10dB  
AUX 1-2  
PHONES  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
LEVEL  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
SOLO  
1
2
TALKBACK  
MAIN MIX  
3-4  
5-6  
7-8  
40 Onyx 820i  
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Onyx 820i Limited Warranty  
Please keep your sales receipt in a safe place.  
This Limited Product Warranty (“Product Warranty”) is provided by LOUD Technologies Inc. (“LOUD”)  
and is applicable to products purchased in the United States or Canada through a LOUD-authorized  
reseller or dealer. The Product Warranty will not extend to anyone other than the original purchaser of the  
product (hereinafter, “Customer,” “you” or “your”).  
For products purchased outside the U.S. or Canada, please visit www.mackie.com/warranty to find  
contact information for your local distributor, and information on any warranty coverage provided by the  
distributor in your local market.  
LOUD warrants to Customer that the product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship  
under normal use during the Warranty Period. If the product fails to conform to the warranty then LOUD  
or its authorized service representative will at its option, either repair or replace any such nonconforming  
product, provided that Customer gives notice of the noncompliance within the Warranty Period to the  
Company at: www.mackie.com/support or by calling LOUD technical support at 1.800.898.3211 (toll-  
free in the U.S. and Canada) during normal business hours Pacific Time, excluding weekends or LOUD  
holidays. Please retain the original dated sales receipt as evidence of the date of purchase. You will need it  
to obtain any warranty service.  
For full terms and conditions, as well as the specific duration of the Warranty for this product, please visit  
www.mackie.com/warranty.  
The Product Warranty, together with your invoice or receipt, and the terms and conditions located  
at www.mackie.com/warranty constitutes the entire agreement, and supersedes any and all prior  
agreements between LOUD and Customer related to the subject matter hereof. No amendment,  
modification or waiver of any of the provisions of this Product Warranty will be valid unless set forth in a  
written instrument signed by the party to be bound thereby.  
Owner's Manual 41  
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16220 Wood-Red Road NE • Woodinville, WA 98072 • USA  
United States and Canada: 800.898.3211  
Europe, Asia, Central and South America: 425.487.4333  
Middle East and Africa: 31.20.654.4000  
E-mail: sales@mackie.com  
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