Mackie 1604VLZ4 16-Channel 4-Bus Analog Mixer

The Mackie 1604VLZ4 is a 16-channel, 4-bus compact analog mixer designed for live sound, recording, broadcast, utility mixing, and instrument-heavy setups. It gives engineers and performers a centralized way to combine microphones, line-level sources, effects processors, monitors, and recording devices. Its compact format helps bring substantial channel capacity to studios, rehearsal rooms, installed systems, and mobile production rigs.

Each of the 16 input channels includes an Onyx microphone preamp with a wide 60 dB gain range. The mixer supports balanced XLR microphone connections and balanced or unbalanced 1/4-inch line-level sources. This flexible input structure accommodates microphones, keyboards, playback devices, outboard preamps, and other line-level equipment.

The 1604VLZ4 uses a high-headroom, low-noise analog signal path with a specified microphone-input-to-main-output response extending from 20 Hz to 50 kHz within -1 dB. Its 3-band EQ provides low and high shelving controls plus a sweepable midrange band for practical tonal adjustment. A 75 Hz low-cut filter on each mic input channel helps reduce unwanted low-frequency rumble and handling noise.

Four subgroups, six auxiliary sends, four stereo returns, and eight direct outputs provide flexible routing for monitor mixes, effects loops, recording, and subgroup control. Channels 1 through 8 offer post-fader direct outputs for multitrack workflows. Individual channel insert points also allow serial processors such as compressors or equalizers to be connected into every channel path.

For system monitoring and delivery, the mixer provides balanced main, subgroup, auxiliary, control-room, and mono outputs alongside RCA tape input and output connections. A front-panel headphone output and 12-segment stereo metering support level checks during setup and operation. The 1604VLZ4 is suited to users who need hands-on analog mixing with broad I/O and routing options rather than an integrated USB recording interface.

Key Features

• 16 Onyx Mic Preamps: Provides microphone inputs with up to 60 dB of gain range.
• Four-Bus Routing: Groups channels for flexible live, recording, and submix control.
• 3-Band Sweepable EQ: Shapes lows, highs, and adjustable midrange frequencies per channel.
• 75 Hz Low-Cut Filter: Reduces low-frequency rumble on microphone input channels.
• Eight Direct Outputs: Supports multitrack recording from channels 1 through 8.
• Six Auxiliary Sends: Routes separate monitor, effects, or broadcast mixes.

Design & Installation

The 1604VLZ4 uses a rugged steel chassis with a powder-coat finish, high-contrast controls, 60 mm log-taper channel faders, and high-resolution 12-segment stereo meters. Its compact console layout places channel processing, routing, and output controls within reach for hands-on operation. The mixer measures 17.0 inches high, 17.3 inches wide, and 5.1 inches deep in its normal pod position.

Connect balanced microphones to the XLR inputs and line-level sources through the 1/4-inch line inputs, then connect the balanced main TRS outputs to powered speakers, amplifiers, or other line-level equipment. Use the auxiliary sends for monitor amps or external effects, stereo returns for effects returns or additional sources, and direct or subgroup outputs for recording systems. Rack mounting is supported with rack ears, and the input/output pod can be positioned for desktop or rack-based setups.