MACKIE 1604VLZ4 – Ultra-compact 16-channel analog mixer
The Mackie 1604VLZ4 features sixteen boutique-quality Onyx™ preamps, each with 60 dB of gain and 128.5 dB of dynamic range, capable of handling line signals up to +22 dBu with distortion less than 0.0007% (20 Hz–50 kHz). Its “Built-Like-A-Tank™” steel chassis construction and sealed controls ensure durability and improved RF rejection, ideal for broadcast and touring. It offers +48 V phantom power, sixteen line inputs with +4/–10 dB switching, sixteen balanced inserts, three-band EQ and an 18 dB/oct low-cut filter at 75 Hz, four AUX sends, two stereo returns, an ALT 3/4 bus, 60 mm faders, and 12-segment stereo meters for precise visual monitoring.
Main features
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16 Onyx™ preamps: XLR/TRS combo, +48 V phantom, 60 dB gain, 128.5 dB dynamic range, +22 dBu line input handling.
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Line inputs: 16 × TRS 1/4″ high-headroom with +4/–10 dB switch.
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Balanced Inserts: 16 send/return TRS for outboard gear integration.
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3-band EQ: Bass 80 Hz shelving; mids 2.5 kHz peaking; treble 12 kHz shelving ±15 dB.
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Low-Cut Filter: 18 dB/oct at 75 Hz on microphone channels.
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Aux Sends: 4 post-EQ with TRS stereo return for external processing.
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ALT 3/4 Bus: Alternate stereo output for submixing or independent recording.
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Faders: 16 × 60 mm with wear-resistant and high-contrast caps.
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Stereo Returns: 2 × TRS for connecting effects or other stereo sources.
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Meters: Stereo 12-segment for Master output.
User benefits
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Professional quality: Onyx™ preamps and low noise in a compact format.
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Flexible integration: Inserts and Aux Sends for effects and outboard without latency.
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Precise tonal control: 3-band EQ and Low-Cut filter on each channel.
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Routing Versatility: ALT 3/4 bus and stereo returns cover any workflow.
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Touring Durability: Steel chassis, sealed controls and improved RF rejection.
Use cases
- Broadcast and post-production where clarity and RF rejection are critical.
- Live performances and tours in small venues with multiple microphones and instruments.
- Home studio and multitrack recording with external effects integration.
- Conference and streaming rooms requiring independent submixes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use condenser microphones? Yes; all Onyx™ channels have +48 V phantom power.
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How do I insert compressors? Use the balanced TRS insert on each channel to send/return to your processor.
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What does the ALT 3/4 bus do? It routes an independent stereo submix for recording or monitoring.
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Is it rackable? Yes; it includes optional lugs for 19″ rack mounting.
Description for projects
Mackie 1604VLZ4 Mixer: 16 channels with Onyx™ preamps, phantom power, 16 line inputs +4/–10, 16 inserts, 3-band EQ, 75 Hz low-cut, 4 AUX, ALT 3/4 bus, 2 returns, 60 mm faders, 12-segment meters, steel chassis, universal power supply.
