Yamaha MG12XU vs Mackie ProFX12v3: A Detailed Comparison
In the realm of analog audio mixers, the Yamaha MG12XU and the Mackie ProFX12v3 stand out as top contenders for anyone looking to harness the power of 12 channels in a compact, durable package.
This comparison aims to dissect the nuances between these two models, providing insights into their features, functionalities, and overall performance.
Overview of the Competitors
The Yamaha MG12XU and Mackie ProFX12v3 are not just any mixers; they are the culmination of years of engineering and design, tailored to meet the needs of both live performances and studio recordings. Despite sharing a 12-channel configuration, several differences delineate their capabilities and appeal to different user preferences.
The Notable Differences
Among the many features, there are about twelve distinctions worth noting between these mixers. While some might seem minor, others could be the deciding factor for specific applications.
Build Quality and Usability
Both Yamaha and Mackie have a long-standing reputation for durability, and these mixers are no exception. Having personally tested these brands for over a decade, I can attest to their resilience, even when subjected to less-than-ideal treatment during gigs.
Back Panel Similarities
Examining the back panel, both mixers reveal an identical setup with IEC inputs for power, on/off switches, and a USB connector. This commonality extends to their ease of setup and integration into existing setups.
Diving into the Details
Microphone Inputs
The Yamaha mixer boasts four combination jack inputs, accommodating both XLR and ¼ inch connections, with additional options for stereo pairs.
In contrast, the Mackie mixer includes an extra XLR input, totaling seven, but offers only two combination jacks.
A notable feature on the Mackie is the High Z button on channels 1 and 2, enabling direct connection of instruments like electric guitars without the need for separate DI boxes.
Inserts and Pads
A significant difference lies in the availability of inserts on the Mackie for the first four channels, which Yamaha lacks. This feature is invaluable for integrating outboard gear like compressors or effects units directly into the signal path. The Yamaha counters with pads on its first four channels to manage high-input levels without distortion.
Filters and Preamps
Both mixers employ different strategies to manage low frequencies; Yamaha uses a high pass filter, while Mackie opts for a low cut button. Both perform the same function but the Yamaha rolls off the low frequencies at 80Hz and Mackie rolls them off at 100Hz.
Yamaha’s preamps outperform Mackie’s by offering an additional 4dB of gain, which can be particularly beneficial when using dynamic microphones in studio environments.
One-Knob Compressor and EQ
Yamaha and Mackie’s approaches to compression diverge significantly. Yamaha’s one-knob compressor adds makeup gain to compressed signals, whereas Mackie’s version focuses solely on peak reduction. Regarding EQ, both mixers feature a three-band setup, but with slightly different frequency adjustments.
Auxiliaries and Routing
A key difference in auxiliary outputs is Yamaha’s pre-fade option for Aux 1, offering more flexibility in level control independent of the main mix.
Additionally, both mixers enable stereo panning and intricate routing options, including sub mixes and live stream feeds.
Stereo Pairs and Connectivity
Yamaha provides more versatility in handling stereo pairs, especially with the inclusion of RCA inputs and USB connectivity on specific channels.
Mackie, while offering a robust set of inputs for stereo pairs, stands out with its full three-band EQ across all channels, enhancing mid-frequency control.
Outputs and Additional Features
The output sections of both mixers are nearly identical, with variations in naming conventions rather than functionality.
Phantom power is uniformly available, supporting a range of microphone types.
However, Yamaha includes a unique peak light indicator, whereas Mackie opts for a level set indicator, guiding users for optimal setup.
It’s also important to point out that Yamaha uses an “on” button for each channel while Mackie provides a “mute” button for each channel. The functionality is the same, only the default on/off position is different.
Personal Preferences
Five Reasons to Choose Yamaha
- Input Pads: Useful for managing hot signals without rerouting.
- Superior Preamps: Offers more gain, ideal for certain microphones.
- Pre-fade Aux Option: Essential for specific live and studio scenarios.
- Parameter Knob on Effect Engine: Allows quick adjustments to effects parameters.
- RCA Inputs: Handy for connecting legacy equipment.
Five Reasons to Choose Mackie
- Extra XLR Input: Offers more flexibility for microphone connections.
- Hi-Z Button: Streamlines connecting instruments directly.
- Inserts on Channels: For direct integration of outboard gear.
- Predictable Compressors: Simplifies dynamics management without added gain.
- 3 Band EQ On All Channels: Better EQ for the Stereo Inputs.
Yamaha MG12XU vs Mackie ProFX12v3 Pricing
- Yamaha MG12XU: https://currentprice.io/mg12xu
- Mackie ProFX12v3: https://currentprice.io/profx12v3
- Neat King Bee II: https://currentprice.io/king_bee_ii
- Rode NTH-100 Headphones: https://currentprice.io/nth-100
- XLR Cable: https://currentprice.io/xlr_cable
- Mic Stand: https://currentprice.io/desk_stand
- Rode PSA1+ Boom Arm: http://currentprice.io/psa1_plus
- Quality Acoustic Treatment Panels: http://currentprice.io/soundpanels
Yamaha MG12XU vs Mackie ProFX12v3 Topics
- 0:00 – Introduction
- 0:28 – Featured Equipment
- 0:53 – Pricing & Specs
- 1:06 – Build Quality
- 1:20 – Back Panel
- 1:37 – Microphone Inputs
- 2:30 – Hi-Z Inputs
- 2:52 – Inserts
- 3:27 – Pad
- 3:48 – High Pass Filter / Low Cut
- 4:07 – Microphone Preamps
- 4:40 – One-Knob Compressor
- 5:19 – 3-Band EQ
- 5:57 – Aux Outputs
- 6:45 – Panning Left/Right
- 6:56 – On / Mute Buttons
- 7:11 – Routing (1-2, ST, PFL, etc.)
- 7:40 – Stereo Inputs
- 10:13 – Effects Engine
- 11:09 – Outputs
- 12:19 – 48v Phantom Power
- 12:45 – Differences Between Yamaha / Mackie
- 13:41 – Yamaha MG12XU Benefits
- 15:10 – Mackie ProFX12v3 Benefits
- 16:45 – Recommendation
- 18:05 – Final Thoughts
