Mackie BIG KNOB STUDIO+US Monitor Controller & USB Interface

The Mackie Big Knob Studio+ is a desktop monitor controller and USB audio interface for recording, mixing, and playback systems. It centralizes source switching, monitor selection, level control, and headphone monitoring in one workspace device. This helps reduce the need to repatch equipment when moving between computers, instruments, reference sources, and multiple monitor pairs.

It is suited to project studios, podcasting rooms, editing suites, broadcast workspaces, and production setups that use more than one playback source or monitor destination. The Studio+ can select among four sources and three stereo monitor pairs while providing a large central volume control. Two independently controlled headphone outputs also support separate monitoring needs during recording sessions.

The built-in 2x4 USB 2.0 interface supports recording and playback at up to 24-bit/192 kHz. Two Mackie Onyx microphone preamps accept microphone, line, and instrument signals, with 48V phantom power available for channels 1 and 2. A direct-monitoring cue blend lets performers hear input signals alongside playback without computer-induced monitoring latency.

Its monitor-control section includes input and output trim adjustment, mono summing, mute, and a 20 dB dim function. A 16-segment input meter provides visible level monitoring, while the controller's measured analog response is specified from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. The Studio+ also adds an internal talkback microphone, an external talkback mic input, and footswitch control for session communication.

For system integration, connect powered monitors directly to the three stereo monitor outputs, or connect those outputs to an amplifier for passive speakers. The dedicated studio/phones amplifier outputs can feed a headphone distribution system, while the two front-panel headphone jacks offer local monitoring. It can also work as a monitor controller without a computer connected, making it useful as a control center for both analog and computer-based studios.

Key Features

• 2x4 USB Interface: Records and plays back audio at up to 24-bit/192 kHz through USB 2.0.
• Four Source Inputs: Switch among USB, input channels, and connected stereo playback sources.
• Three Monitor Pairs: Select among monitor A, B, and C stereo output pairs from the desktop.
• Onyx Mic Preamps: Two mic/line/instrument inputs support recording microphones, instruments, and line-level gear.
• Flexible Talkback: Use the built-in mic, an external XLR talkback mic, or a momentary footswitch.
• Dual Headphone Monitoring: Two headphone outputs have separate level controls and selectable source paths.

Design & Installation

The Big Knob Studio+ uses a compact desktop layout with a large central monitor-level control, dedicated source and monitor-select buttons, front-panel headphone jacks, and a front 1/8-inch stereo input. Mackie specifies a 11.9-inch-wide by 6.8-inch-deep chassis weighing 4.6 lb. Its external power supply uses a locking barrel connection, and Mackie does not offer a rack-mount option for this model.

Place the unit within reach of the mixing position and connect monitor A, B, and C outputs to powered monitors or to amplifier inputs for passive speakers. Connect microphones, instruments, line sources, headphones, and a computer as needed; an external power supply and line cord are included. For accurate switching between sources and speakers, set the individual source and monitor trims during initial setup, then use the main Big Knob for day-to-day monitor level control.