Mackie 1620i User Manual

16-Channel Premium Analog Mixer

48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V

with FireWire

QUICK START GUIDE

MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE

SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO

Important Safety Instructions

1. Read these instructions.

2. Keep these instructions.

3. Heed all warnings.

4. Follow all instructions.

5. Do not use this apparatus near water.

6. Clean only with a dry cloth.

7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the

manufacturer’s instructions.

8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,

stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifi ers) that produce heat.

9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type

plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other.
A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong.
The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the
provided plug does not fi t into your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.

10.

Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at

plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the
apparatus.

11.

Only use attachments/accessories specifi ed by the manufacturer.

12.

Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or

table specifi ed by the manufacturer, or sold with

PORTABLE CART

WARNING

the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution
when moving the cart/apparatus combination to
avoid injury from tip-over.

13.

Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or

when unused for long periods of time.

14.

Refer all servicing to qualifi ed service personnel. Servicing is required

when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power­supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have
fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or
moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

15.

This apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing, and no

object fi lled with liquids, such as vases or beer glasses, shall be placed
on the apparatus.

16.

Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords as this can result in a

risk of fi re or electric shock.

17.

This apparatus has been designed with Class-I construction and must

be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective earthing con­nection (the third grounding prong).

18.

This apparatus has been equipped with a rocker-style AC mains power

switch. This switch is located on the rear panel and should remain
readily accessible to the user.

19.

The MAINS plug or an appliance coupler is used as the disconnect
device, so the disconnect device shall remain readily operable.

CAUTION AVIS

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK. DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)

ATTENTION: POUR EVITER LES RISQUES DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE, NE PAS ENLEVER LE COUVERCLE.

AVIS: POUR EVITER LES RISQUES D'INCENDIE OU D'ELECTROCUTION, N'EXPOSEZ PAS CET ARTICLE

2 Onyx 1620i

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE. NE PAS OUVRIR

NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL

AUCUN ENTRETIEN DE PIECES INTERIEURES PAR L'USAGER.

CONFIER L'ENTRETIEN AU PERSONNEL QUALIFIE.

A LA PLUIE OU A L'HUMIDITE

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous
voltage" within the product's enclosure, that may be of sufficient magnitude
to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

Le symbole éclair avec point de flèche à l'intérieur d'un triangle équilatéral
est utilisé pour alerter l'utilisateur de la présence à l'intérieur du coffret de
"voltage dangereux" non isolé d'ampleur suffisante pour constituer un risque
d'éléctrocution.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the
user of the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing)
instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

Le point d'exclamation à l'intérieur d'un triangle équilatéral est employé
pour alerter les utilisateurs de la présence d'instructions importantes pour le
fonctionnement et l'entretien (service) dans le livret d'instruction
accompagnant l'appareil.

Correct disposal of this product. This symbol indicates that this product should not be disposed of with your household waste, according to the WEEE Directive (2002/96/EC) and your national law. This product
should be handed over to an authorized collection site for recycling waste electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). Improper handling of this type of waste could have a possible negative impact on the environment and
human health due to potentially hazardous substances that are generally associated with EEE. At the same time, your cooperation in the correct disposal of this product will contribute to the effective usage of natural
resources. For more information about where you can drop off your waste equipment for recycling, please contact your local city offi ce, waste authority, or your household waste disposal service.

20. NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with

the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC
Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equip­ment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and
on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and the
receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from
that to which the receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for
help.

CAUTION: Changes or modifi cations to this device not expressly

approved by LOUD Technologies Inc. could void the user's authority to
operate the equipment under FCC rules.

21. This apparatus does not exceed the Class A/Class B (whichever is

applicable)

limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as
set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian Department
of Com mu ni ca tions.

ATTENTION — Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits

radioélectriques dépassant las limites applicables aux appareils
numériques de class A/de class B (selon le cas) prescrites dans le
réglement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par les ministere des
com mu ni ca tions du Canada.

22.

Exposure to extremely high noise levels may cause permanent hearing

loss. Individuals vary considerably in susceptibility to noise-induced
hearing loss, but nearly everyone will lose some hearing if exposed to
suffi ciently intense noise for a period of time. The U.S. Government’s
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has specifi ed
the permissible noise level exposures shown in the following chart.

According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of these permissible limits

could result in some hearing loss. To ensure against potentially danger­ous exposure to high sound pressure levels, it is recommended that all
persons exposed to equipment capable of producing high sound pres­sure levels use hearing protectors while the equipment is in operation.
Ear plugs or protectors in the ear canals or over the ears must be worn
when operating the equipment in order to prevent permanent hearing
loss if exposure is in excess of the limits set forth here:

Duration,
per day in
hours
8 90 Duo in small club
692
4 95 Subway Train
397
2 100 Very loud classical music

1.5 102
1 105 Woody and Anita screaming at Troy

0.5 110

0.25 or less 115 Loudest parts at a rock concert

Sound Level
dBA, Slow
Response

Typical Example

about deadlines

WARNING — To reduce the risk of fi re or electric shock, do not

expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

Introduction

Thank you for choosing a lovely Mackie Onyx 1620i
professional compact mixer. It has built-in FireWire,
our premium precision-engineered studio-grade Onyx
mic preamps, 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.

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 quick start guide. A
full manual is available on www.mackie.com.

Setup

Use the mixer in a nice clean and dry environment,

free from dryer lint and dust bunnies.

Zero the controls

1. Fully turn down all the knobs and faders to
minimum, except for the channel EQ and pan
controls, which should be centered.

2. Make sure all buttons are in the out position.

Connections

1. Make sure the AC power switch is off before
making any connections.

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
AC voltage ranging from 100 VAC to 240 VAC.

3. Plug a balanced microphone into one of the mic
XLR (3-pin) connectors. Or connect any line­level signal (keyboard, or guitar preamp) to a
line input jack using a TS or TRS 1/4" plug.

4. If your microphone requires phantom power,
press in the 48V phantom power button.

5. You can connect a guitar directly to line inputs
1 or 2 without the need for a DI box. Press a
hi-z switch if you connect a guitar directly.

6. The insert jacks of channels 1 to 8 can be used
to connect an external effects or dynamics
processor into the channel signal chain.

7. Connect the main outputs of the mixer (either
XLR or TRS 1/4") to the line-level inputs of your
amplifi er (with speakers already attached) or
to the line-level inputs of powered speakers.

8. Engage the main mix switch in the control
room/phones source selection, so the meters
will show the main mix levels in the next steps.

Part No. SW0803 Rev. B00
©2010 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved.

any

Set the levels

It’s not even necessary to hear what you’re doing to set
optimal levels. But if you’d like to: Plug in headphones
and turn up the phones knob just a little.

1. Turn on the mixer's power switch.

2. Set the solo mode switch to PFL.

3. For one channel, press the solo switch in, and
the rude solo light will turn on.

4. Play something into that input at real-world
levels.

5. Adjust that channel's gain control until the
right main meter stays around the 0 dB LED
(marked "level set").

6. Disengage the channel's solo switch.

7. Repeat steps 3 to 6 for the remaining channels.

8. Turn up a channel fader to the "U" mark.

9. Slowly turn up the main mix fader until you
hear the signals in your speakers or
headphones.

10. If needed, apply some channel EQ wisely.

11. Adjust the channel faders to get the best mix.
Keep the gain controls and faders fully down on
unused channels.

12. 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.

FireWire

• See page 15 for details of getting started with
FireWire. PC drivers are on the supplied
CD-ROM. Mac OS X contains built-in drivers.

CONTENTS

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ........................ 2

INTRODUCTION ...................................................... 3

FEATURES ............................................................... 4

SETTING UP A SYSTEM ............................................ 6

MICROPHONES ....................................................... 8

LINE-LEVEL SOURCES AND GUITARS ......................... 9

AUX 1-4 ............................................................... 10

CONTROL ROOM/PHONES/METERS ...................... 11

MAIN MIX ............................................................ 12

ALT 3-4 ............................................................... 13

TALKBACK ............................................................ 14

FIREWIRE ............................................................. 15

TECHNICAL INFORMATION .................................... 18

TRACK SHEET ........................................................ 20

BLOCK DIAGRAM .................................................. 22

MACKIE LIMITED WARRANTY ................................ 23

Quick Start Guide 3

Features

REAR PANEL

1. AC POWER CONNECTION

2. POWER SWITCH

3. FIREWIRE CONNECTIONS

4. MAIN MIX XLR OUTPUTS

5. MAIN OUTPUT LEVEL (+4 dB/MIC)

6. AUX SEND 1-4

7. AUX RETURN 1-4

8. INSERT (CH. 1-8)

CONNECTION SECTION

9. MIC INPUTS (CH. 1-8)

10. MONO LINE INPUTS (CH. 1-8)

11. STEREO LINE INPUTS (CH. 9-16)

12. CONTROL-ROOM OUTPUTS

13. MAIN MIX 1/4" OUTPUTS

14. ALT 3-4 OUTPUTS

15. TAPE INPUTS

16. TAPE OUTPUTS

17. HEADPHONE OUTPUT

CHANNEL CONTROLS

18. HI-Z SWITCH (CH. 1 AND 2 ONLY)

19. LOW CUT (CH. 1-8 ONLY)

20. 48V PHANTOM POWER (MIC ONLY)

21. GAIN CONTROL

22. SEND FIREWIRE PRE/POST EQ

23. CH. 15-16 INPUT (LINE OR FW 1-2)

24. HIGH EQ LEVEL

25. HIGH MID EQ FREQUENCY (CH. 1-8)

26. HIGH MID EQ LEVEL (CH. 1-8)

27. LOW MID EQ FREQUENCY (CH. 1-8)

28. LOW MID EQ LEVEL (CH. 1-8)

29. MID EQ LEVEL (CH. 9-16)

30. LOW EQ LEVEL

31. AUX SEND 1-4 LEVEL

32. PAN

33. MUTE/ALT 3-4 SWITCH

34. –20 AND OL LEDS

35. CHANNEL FADER

36. SOLO SWITCH

MASTER SECTION

37. CONTROL ROOM SOURCE: MAIN MIX

38. CONTROL ROOM SOURCE: TAPE, FW 1-2, ALT 3-4

39. ASSIGN CONTROL ROOM SOURCE TO MAIN MIX

40. CONTROL ROOM LEVEL

41. PHONES LEVEL

42. LEFT/RIGHT LEVEL METERS

43. RUDE SOLO LIGHT

44. SOLO MODE SWITCH: PFL/AFL

45. AUX MASTER SEND 1-4 LEVELS

46. AUX SEND 1-4 PRE/POST SWITCHES

47. AUX MASTER RETURN 1-4 LEVELS

48. AUX RETURN 3 TO AUX 1 SWITCH

49. POWER LED

50. AUX SEND 1-2 TO FW 13-14 SWITCH

51. TALKBACK MICROPHONE

52. TALKBACK LEVEL

53. TALKBACK DESTINATION: PHONES, AUX 1-4

54. TALKBACK ON SWITCH

55. MAIN MIX FADER

56. ASSIGN MAIN MIX TO FW 15-16

AC POWER NOTES

1. AC POWER CONNECTION

This is a standard 3-prong IEC power connector.
Connect the supplied detachable linecord to the power
receptacle, and plug the other end of the linecord into
an AC outlet. The mixer can accept

any AC voltage

ranging from 100 VAC to 240 VAC.

2. POWER SWITCH

Press the top of this rocker switch inwards to turn on
the mixer. The front panel power LED will glow with
happiness and the mixer will become fully operational.

4 Onyx 1620i

4

8

9

10
18
19
21
22

24
25
26

27
28
30

31

1

2

3

48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V

5

20

7

6

15 16

12 13 14

17

11

37

29

23

38

39

42

43

40

41

45

44

47

46

31
31

31
32

MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE

33

35

34

SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO

36

Quick Start Guide 5

50

51

52

53

54

48

49

56

55

Setting up a system

Microphones

Electric

Guitar

Bass

Guitar

iPod
Docking Station

Headphones

Amplifier

Modeler

HD1531
Powered Speaker
Main Right

HD1801
Po w e r e d

Subwoofer

Laptop Computer

with audio production

software

Drum

Machine

Mackie SRM450v2

Powered Speakers
(Stage Monitors)

press HI-Z

button

Aux Send 1

48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V

MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE

SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO

press FW button ( ) to send
FW 1-2 computer output into
mixer channels 15-16

Keyboard

Set Aux 1, 2 PRE for monitors
Set Aux 3, 4 POST for external processors

press FW button ( )
to send main mix to computer
via FireWire channels 15 and 16

Send

Return

Compressor (Vocals)

Send

Return

Compressor (Vocals)

Send

Return

Dynamics Processor (Bass)

Reverb (Aux Send 3)

Powered Speaker

Subwoofer

Delay (Aux Send 4)

Main Left

HD1801
Po w e r e d

HD1531

SRM150

Powered Monitor

for keyboard player

(Aux Send 2)

This diagram shows an electric guitar connected to the channel 1 line input via an amp modeler, a bass
guitar connected directly to channel 2 (hi-z switch in), microphones connected to channel 3-8 mic inputs,
a drum machine connected to channel 9-10 stereo line inputs, and a keyboard connected to channel
11-12 stereo line inputs. An iPod dock connects to the tape input. Headphones are used to monitor
levels.

A dynamics processor is connected to the insert jack of channel 2 to work its magic on your bass.
Vocal compressors are connected to the channel 3 and 4 inserts.

A delay processor receives a mono input from aux 4 send (in post-fader mode), and its stereo outputs
connect to the stereo aux 4 return inputs. A reverb processor receives a mono input from aux 3 send (in
post-fader mode), and its stereo outputs connect to the stereo aux 3 return inputs.

An SRM150 powered speaker receives a mono input from aux 2 send (in pre-fader mode), and is used
as a monitor for your keyboard player. SRM450v2 powered speakers are used as stage monitors for the
band; they are connected to the aux 1 send jack (in pre-fader mode). The club is driven by connecting a
pair of HD1801 powered subwoofers and a pair of HD1531 powered speakers to the main left and right
outputs.

A laptop computer connects to a FireWire port, allowing the 2-channel main mix, and individual
channels to be recorded. Two channels can be played back from your audio production software. These
can enter as either a source for the control room and phones, or channels 15-16.

Typical Club System

6 Onyx 1620i

Electric

Guitar

Bass

Guitar

press HI-Z

buttons

Studio

Acoustic

Guitar

mic’d up

48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V

Microphones

Mackie

HR824mk2

Powered Reference

Monitors for
Control Room

CD Player

Engineer’s
Headphones

press FW button ( ) to
send FW 1-2 computer output
into mixer channels 15-16

Electronic

Drum Kit

Keyboard

Computer with
audio production
software

MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE

SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO

Digital Reverb
(Aux Send 4)

press FW button ( ) to send Aux 1
and Aux 2 to computer via FireWire
channels 13 and 14

press FW button ( )
to send main mix to computer
via FireWire channels 15 and 16

Compressor (Vocals)

Headphone Amp
(AUX Send 3)

Keyboard

Effects Processor (Acoustic)

Dynamics Processor (Bass)

Multi FX Processor (Guitar)

Headphones

This diagram shows an electric guitar connected directly to the channel 1 input (hi-z switch in), a bass
guitar connected directly to channel 2 (hi-z switch in), an acoustic guitar mic connected to channel 3 mic
input, studio mics connected to channel 4-8 mic inputs, an electronic drum set connected to channel 9-10
stereo line inputs, a keyboard connected to channel 11-12 stereo line inputs, a keyboard mono output
connected to channel 13 (left/mono) input. A CD player connects to the tape input.

A multi-FX processor is connected to the insert jack of channel 1 to work its magic on your guitar. A
dynamics processor is connected to insert 2 for your bass, and an effects processor connects to insert 3
for your acoustic guitar. Compressors are connected to inserts 4-6 for your vocals.

Mackie HR824mk2 powered reference monitors are used for your control room listening. The
engineer's headphones are used to monitor levels.

In this example, aux 3 is set up to provide the feed to a headphone amplifi er and your band's
headphones. Aux 4 feeds the input of a digital reverb, whose processed stereo outputs enter aux 4
returns, to be added to the main mix by adjusting the master return knob for aux 4.

A desktop computer connects to a FireWire port, allowing the 2-channel main mix, individual channels,
and the aux sends to be recorded, and two channels to be played back using audio production software.

Mixer channels 15-16 can play the 2-channel signals from your computer if the FW 1-2 switch at the
top of the 15-16 channel strip is engaged. Aux 1 and 2 (in post mode) can be sent via FireWire to
software effects plugins if the Aux Send 1-2 to FW 13-14 switch is engaged in the aux master section.

Typical Recording System

Quick Start Guide 7

Microphones

Connect your microphones to the female XLR
connectors on mono channels 1-8. The microphone
preamps feature our Onyx design, with super high
fi delity and headroom. Professional ribbon, dynamic,
and condenser mics all sound excellent through these
inputs. Microphone-level signals are passed through
these splendid microphone preamplifi ers to become
line-level signals.

48V PHANTOM POWER

Press the 48V phantom power switch if your microphones
need it.

Most modern professional condenser mics
require 48 V phantom power, which lets the mixer send
low-current DC voltage to the mic’s electronics through
the same wires that carry audio.

Never plug single-ended (unbalanced) micro phones,
or ribbon mics into the mic input jacks if phantom
power is on. Do not plug instrument outputs into the
mic XLR input jacks with phantom power on, unless you
are certain it is safe to do so.

LOW CUT

Mono channels 1-8 each have a low-cut switch that
cuts bass frequencies below 75 Hz of the mic and line
inputs. This will reduce any thumps and bangs due to
stage noise and rumble, and mic handling.

We recommend that you use low-cut on every
microphone application except kick drum, bass guitar,
or bassy synth patches.

SETTING THE MICROPHONE GAIN

The gain controls allow you to set your input signals
to an optimum level: not so hot that the mixer is
overloaded, and not so low that the signal is lost in
noise. For a signal entering the XLR mic inputs, the
adjustment range is from 0 to 60 dB. Use the following
procedure for setting the gain just right:

1. Press the solo switch at the bottom of the
channel your microphone is connected to.
The fl ashing rude solo light is a reminder that
what you are listening to in the control room
and headphones, and shown on the main right
meter is the soloed channel.

2. Make sure the solo mode switch is in the PFL
(pre-fader listen) position (out). This is just
below the rude solo light.

3. Sing/talk/shout/scream into the microphone at
typical loudness levels.

4. Adjust the channel gain control until the right
main meter level is hovering around the 0 dB
mark (labeled "level set").

5. Now that the gain is set correctly, disengage the
solo switch.

6. During a performance, if you notice that the OL
(overload) LED comes on next to the channel
fader, carefully decrease the gain until OL no
longer comes on.

Using the low cut switch also allows you to add some
bass EQ to your vocals without boosting the really-low
lows.

EQUALIZATION

Mono channels 1-8 have a 4-band EQ, with shelving­low, shelving-high, and peaking-high-mid and low-mid.
The frequency of the low-mid can be adjusted from 100
Hz to 2 kHz, and the high-mid from 400 Hz to 8 kHz.

This loving attention to detail in the mid EQ section is
ideal for vocal equalization, so you might consider using
channels 1-8 for your main vocal microphones.

INSERTS

Channels 1-8 have insert jacks on the rear panel.
These allow you to send the mic and line signals out
to an external device, and back in again on the same
connector. For example, vocals benefi t from having
an external vocal compressor. Use standard 1/4" TRS
"insert" connectors, where tip=send, ring=return, and
sleeve=ground.

8 Onyx 1620i

Gain

XLR Mic

Inputs

Low Cut

48V

EQ

OL Led

Solo

Solo

48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V

MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE

SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO

Inserts

Level
Set

Solo
Mode

Line-level Sources and Guitars

Connect your line-level sources to the 1/4" TRS line
input connectors. Channels 1-8 have mono line inputs,
and channels 9-16 are stereo. Each line input can
accept TRS (tip-ring-sleeve) balanced or TS (tip­sleeve) unbalanced sources.

Line-level sources include keyboards, drum machines,
electronic drum kits, CD players, iPod

®

docks, guitar

preamp outputs and so on.

If you have a mono source and the mono channels are
already in use, plug it into the left input (labeled left/
mono) of a stereo channel, and the signal will appear
equally on the left and right of the main mix.

If you have a stereo source and want to use channels
1 and 2 for example, plug the left side into channel 1,
and set the pan control fully-left. Plug the right side into
channel 2 and set the pan control fully-right.

LINE/HI-Z

Engage this switch if you want to connect guitars
directly to the 1/4" line inputs of channels 1 or 2. For
line-level sources, disengage this switch.

To connect guitars to other channels, you will need a
DI box, or they will not sound good, particularly the high
frequency response. This applies to most mixers and
channels in general, unless they have a hi-z switch.

LOW CUT

Channels 1-8 have a low-cut switch that cuts the bass
frequencies below 75 Hz of the line and mic inputs. See
the previous page for more details of low-cut.

EQUALIZATION

Mono channels 1-8 have a 4-band EQ, with shelving­low, shelving-high, and peaking-high-mid and low-mid.
The frequency of the low-mid can be adjusted from 100
Hz to 2 kHz, and the high-mid from 400 Hz to 8 kHz.

Stereo channels 9-16 have a stereo 3-band EQ with
shelving-low, peaking-mid, and shelving-high.

These EQ options allow a lot of adjustment to your
line-level sources and guitars. Apply EQ wisely and
carefully, like makeup. (Too much and things can turn
ugly.)

TAPE IN and TAPE OUT

Use these RCA unbalanced stereo inputs to connect
the line-level outputs from sources such as tape decks,
CD/DVD players and iPod
switch to listen in your control room or phones. Engage
"assign to main mix" to add the sounds to the main mix.
For example, you can play intermission music, or listen
to rare reference material of your band getting it right.

®

docks. Engage the tape

The tape output is a copy of the main mix (post
fader), suitable for analog recording, sending to the
inputs of an external amplifi er, or sound card etc.

INSERTS

Channels 1-8 have insert jacks on the rear panel.
These allow you to send the mic and line signals out
to an external device, and back in again on the same
connector. For example, you could connect a dynamics
processor for your bass guitar.

SETTING THE LINE INPUT GAIN

The gain controls allow you to set your input signals
to an optimum level: not so hot that the mixer is
overloaded, and not so low that the signal is lost in
noise. For a signal entering the TRS 1/4" line inputs,
the adjustment range is -20 dB to +40 dB for channels
1-8, and -20 dB to +20 dB for channels 9-16. Use the
following procedure for setting the gain just right:

1. Press the solo switch at the bottom of the
channel your source is connected to. The rude
solo light will fl ash to remind you that the
source playing in the control room,
headphones, and the right main meter is the
soloed channel. Set the solo mode switch to the
PFL position (out).

2. Play your source at typical loudness levels.

3. Adjust the channel gain control until the right
main meter level is hovering around the 0 dB
mark (labeled "level set").

4. Now the gain is set correctly, disengage solo.

5. During a performance, if you notice that the
OL (overload) LED next to the channel fader
turns on, carefully decrease the gain until OL
no longer comes on.

Mono

Line

Inputs

Hi-z

Low Cut

Gain

EQ

OL Led

Solo

Stereo Line Inputs

48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V

MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE

SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO

Tape In/Out

Quick Start Guide 9

Tape

Level
Set

Solo
Mode

Aux 1-4

AUX SEND 1-4

The four mono 1/4" TRS aux sends on the rear panel
allow you to send balanced or unbalanced line-level
outputs to external effects devices or stage monitors,
independent of the main mix.

Aux sends 1-4 are independent of each other, so you
can set up four separate aux mixes. The aux 1 send
output signal is the sum of all the channels whose aux
1 send control is set to more than minimum. Similarly,
aux 4 send is the sum of all the channels whose aux 4
send control is set to more than minimum. The overall
aux output level can be adjusted with the aux send
master controls.

AUX SEND 1-2 TO FW 13-14

When this button is engaged, aux send 1 and 2 are
available as FireWire signals 13 and 14 to send to a
computer. For example, you can use a computer with
audio production software and effects plugins, as an
effects host. This substitutes wonderfully for an
outboard hardware effects processor. (Mixer channels
13-14 have no direct FW output when this button is
engaged.)

See page 16 for an example of setting up a software
effects processor using the aux sends and FireWire.
Performance will vary based on system hardware.

PRE or POST

The aux sends can either be pre-channel-fader or
post-channel-fader, depending on the position of the
pre/post switches in the aux master section.

For stage monitor work, use PRE, so the stage
monitors do not increase in volume when the channel
fader is adjusted. This allows you to set up the
monitor mix and levels just right, and not have it change
every time a channel fader is adjusted. Stage monitors
can either be passive speakers powered by an external
amplifi er, or powered speakers with their own amplifi er.

For external processors, use POST. In this way, the
feed to external processors will vary in level if the
channel fader is adjusted. For example, the level of any
returned effect (like an echo) will also change if the
channel fader is changed, keeping them in the same
ratio (wet/dry).

Modifi cation: Pre-EQ Aux Sends

The pre-fader aux sends are post-EQ, so they are
affected by the channel EQ controls. The circuit boards
can be modifi ed so the pre-fader aux sends are pre-EQ
instead of post-EQ. For example, your stage monitors

10 Onyx 1620i

will not be affected by any channel EQ adjustments.
This modifi cation can be done by an authorized service
center. Contact our technical support chaps for details.

AUX RETURN 1-4

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. Adjust the
level of the incoming signals with the aux return master
controls.

Alternatively, you can 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.

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.

RETURN to AUX 1

The signals going into aux return 3 can also be added
to aux send 1 by engaging the return to aux 1 switch.
When engaged, the aux return 3 signal to the main mix
will be interrupted.

For example, you could add the effects returned from
an external effects processor fed by aux send 3, to your
stage monitors fed by aux 1.

Aux Sends

Aux
Returns

48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V

Aux 1
Aux 2
Aux 3
Aux 4

MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE

Aux Rtn 3
to Aux 1

SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO

Aux Return
Masters

Aux Send Pre/Post

Aux Send 1-2 to FW 13-14

Aux Send Masters

Control Room/Phones/Meters

CONTROL ROOM OUTPUTS

The 1/4" TRS stereo control room outputs
to run a separate sound system in a control room or a
different zone.

Connect these outputs to the line-level
inputs of an amplifi er running passive studio monitors,
or to the inputs of powered studio monitors.

The headphones play the same program material as
the control room. The meters show the levels prior to
the control room and phones level controls.

can be used

CONTROL ROOM/PHONES SOURCE

The source that plays in the control room,
headphones, and meters is selected using the switches
in the control room/phones source matrix:

• Main mix

• Tape

• Alt 3-4

• FW 1-2: The stereo FireWire 1-2 output from
your computer

• A combination of all four above

Select one or more of these, or there will be no sound
in the control room or phones, and no indication on the
meters (unless a solo button is engaged).

Main Mix

Select main mix to listen to the main mix in the
control room or headphones. The meters show the levels
after the main mix fader.

Tape

Select tape to listen to the RCA tape input in the
control room or headphones. The meters show the level
coming in from your tape or CD player. Press "assign to
main mix" to play intermission music in your main mix.

Assign to Main Mix

Except for the main mix, whatever is selected as a
source for your control room and phones can also be
routed to the main mix by pressing this switch. The
main mix does not play in the control room or phones if
this switch is engaged.

SOLO

Whenever solo is engaged, all control
room/headphone source selections (main mix, alt 3-4,
tape, and FireWire) are defeated, and 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. The main mix continues to play, so the show
can still go on during solo. The solo mode switch allows
solo to be AFL (after-fader listen) or PFL (pre-fader
listen):

SOLO MODE PFL/AFL

When the solo mode switch is out (PFL), soloed
channels will be pre-fader, allowing you to set the
channel gain without regard to fader level. (PFL is
also post-EQ.) When a channel is soled in PFL, you can
adjust the channel gain until your input source reaches
the 0 dB LED in the right meter.

When solo mode is in (AFL), soloed channels will be
post-fader, EQ, and pan, allowing you to hear fader, EQ,
and pan adjustments on soloed channels.

Solo signals reaching the headphones and control
room may be loud, therefore turn down the phones level
and control room level before channels are soloed.

Control Room Outputs

48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V

Headphones

Alt 3-4

Select alt 3-4 to listen to the alt 3-4 mix in the control
room or headphones. This is a stereo mix of any
channels that have their mute/alt 3-4 switch engaged.
This can be used for cueing up sources prior to "going
live," and for other useful reasons. The meters show the
level of the alt 3-4 output.

FW 1-2

Select FW 1-2 to listen in the control room or
headphones to the FireWire 1 and 2 audio streams
coming from your computer. The meters will show the
levels of the signals coming in from your computer.

MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE

SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO

Solo

Control Room

Quick Start Guide 11

Level

Solo Mode

Control Room/
Phones Source

Assign to Main Mix

Phones Level

Main Mix

XLR MAIN OUTPUTS

The male XLR output connectors provide a balanced
line-level signal that represents the end of the mixer
chain, where your fully mixed stereo main mix signals
enter the real world. Connect these outputs to the
inputs of your main power amplifi ers, powered speakers,
serial effects processor, graphic equalizer, or
compressor/limiter. The output provides a fully balanced
signal playing the same program material as the 1/4"
TRS main outs.

MAIN OUTPUT LEVEL (+4 dB/MIC)

When this recessed switch is out (+4 dB), the XLR
main outputs provide a "+4 dBu" line-level signal. You
can then connect these outputs to the line-level inputs
of power amplifi ers, powered loudspeakers, or serial
processors. In a studio setting, you could connect the
main mix to the inputs of a professional stereo recorder.

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
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.

ASSIGN to FW 15-16

Engage this button (just above the main mix fader)
and the main mix can be sent to your computer via
FireWire. The FireWire output is not affected by the
main mix fader, allowing you to record the main mix
of live performances. The left main mix will appear on
FireWire output signal 15, and the right on signal 16.
(When this button is engaged, mixer channels 15-16 are
not available to send via FireWire.)

In addition to recording the main mix using FireWire,
you can record individual mixer channels 1-14 using
FireWire, for studio mixing at a later date. See page 15.

TAPE OUT

This RCA unbalanced output is a copy of the main mix
(post fader). You can use it to record the main mix on
an analog tape deck for example.

When mic is engaged, you can safely plug the XLR
main output into another mixer's microphone input,
even if it provides 48 V phantom power.

The switch is recessed to reduce the chance of
accidently turning it on or off when plugging things in.

1/4" TRS MAIN OUTPUTS

These 1/4" TRS output connectors provide the
balanced or unbalanced line-level output of the main
mix. This is the same signal that appears at the XLR
main outputs, except it is not affected by the main
output level switch.

MAIN MIX FADER

This is the main stereo fader that adjusts the level of
the XLR and 1/4" main outputs, and the tape output. It
does not affect the FireWire output of the main mix.

If the gain of each channel has been set up correctly
for all your microphones, line-level sources, guitars, and
so on, then these channels can be added to the main
mix by careful adjustment of the channel faders. The
main mix fader is then used to turn the complete main
mix level up and down.

XLR Main Outputs

Main Output Level +4dB/Mic

1/4" TRS Main Outputs Tape Out

48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V

MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE

SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO

Assign to
FW 15-16

Main Mix
Fader

12 Onyx 1620i

Alt 3-4

MUTE/ALT 3-4 SWITCHES

Every time a bell rings, an Angel gets its wings. In
a similar way, every time a mute switch is pressed,
that channel is muted in the main mix and
appears in the alt 3-4 outputs instead. Aux
sends 1-4 in post-mode (for external
processors) are also muted, but aux sends
1-4 in pre-mode (for stage monitors) are not
muted.

If you just want to mute the channels, then
don't connect the alt 3-4 outputs to anything.

Muted channels can still be soloed to
audition them in the headphones and control
room, and to adjust and check the channel
gain levels.

ALT 3-4 OUTPUTS

These 1/4" TRS jacks provide a balanced
line-level signal that can provide an alternate
stereo mix for recording or subgrouping.

Mute/Alt 3-4

switches

Alt 3-4 outputs

48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V

MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE

SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO

Control Room/
Phones Source
Alt 3-4

Assign to Main
Mix

Connect these outputs to the inputs of an amplifi er,
powered speaker, or recording device. If you want to
think up some good uses for the alt 3-4 outputs then go
ahead.

For example, these outputs could be used to send
particular channels to another zone, or you could create
a sub-mix of several drum microphones. The alt 3-4
submix can then be routed to the control room and
phones, by pressing the control room alt 3-4 switch, and
then added to the main mix with the control room
"assign to main mix" switch.

The alt 3-4 output doesn’t have a master level control.
All the channels assigned to the alt 3-4 bus are summed
together (post-fader and pan) and sent directly to the
alt 3-4 out.

Quick Start Guide 13

Talkback

The mixer's built-in microphone allows you to talk to
the band through the phones outputs or stage monitors.
This can often be charming and enlightening.

TALKBACK MIC

The omni-directional dynamic microphone will pick
up your voice from anywhere in front of the mixer. Any
hint of exasperation and despair in your voice will be
faithfully picked up.

TALKBACK Switch

Press this switch in to talk. This is a momentary
switch, and as long as you hold it in, talkback is
activated.

If phones is chosen as your talkback destination, the
control room outputs are attenuated (ducked) to allow
your voice to come through clearly.

TALKBACK LEVEL

Use the talkback level knob to control the level of the
signal from the internal microphone.

DESTINATION: PHONES, AUX 1-4

Push in the phones talkback destination switch to
communicate with the talent in the studio through the
headphones during a recording session.

The aux 1-4 talkback destination switch routes the
talkback signal to the aux send 1-4 outputs. Use this to
communicate with the musicians through their stage
monitors when you are setting up a live performance.

In a studio, an aux out could be fed to the input of a
headphone amplifi er feeding several sets of headphones.

It is fi ne to have both talkback destination switches
pushed in at the same time. If you don’t have either
switch pushed in, the talkback signal won’t go
anywhere.

Aux Sends

1. Start with this level turned down.

2. Select the destination: headphones and/or aux
1-4, and make sure the phones level or aux send
master levels are set up nicely.

3. Press the talkback switch as you talk.

4. Slowly turn the talkback level knob up until
they can hear you in phones or monitors.

5. Release the talkback switch when you are
fi nished talking.

Once you have set the level, you can leave it there for

the duration of the session or gig.

48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V

MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE

SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO

Built-in Microphone

Destination

Talkback Switch

Headphones

Talkback
Level

14 Onyx 1620i

FireWire

The mixer comes with a CD containing the PC driver
software needed to use your mixer's internal FireWire
interface. Macintosh OS X contains built-in drivers, and
no software installation is required.

Please check our website (www.mackie.com) for
any updated PC drivers that may exist. If one does,
download this installer and follow the instructions that
accompany the download. Otherwise, continue on with
the CD installation instructions listed below.

INSTALLATION ON A PC:

1. Connect a FireWire cable from your mixer to a
FireWire port on your computer.

2. Turn on your mixer.

3. The Windows application (XP or Vista) will
start its "Found New Hardware" wizard.

4. In the details that follow, ignore any attempt
to connect to Windows Update to fi nd the
software. Also ignore any warnings about the
software not having passed Windows testing.
Trust software from LOUD Technologies, Inc.

5. Select "Locate and install driver software that
came with your device."

6. You will be prompted to insert the CD that
came with your mixer. Do so.

7. Select "Install," and the driver software should
be installed.

8. For Windows XP users, depending upon your
confi guration, repeat steps 1-7 if prompted to
install a second driver.

9. In your audio software application, select and
activate all the inputs from the mixer and the
outputs to the mixer.

INSTALLATION ON A MAC:

1. Connect a FireWire cable from your mixer to a
FireWire port on your Mac.

2. Turn on your mixer.

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.

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.

6. You’re ready to go with any Mac OS X Core
Audio host application (i.e., Tracktion, Logic,
Cubase, Nuendo, Live, Digital Performer, etc.).

FireWire Connections

FW Pre
or Post

48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V

MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE

SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO

Line/FW 1-2

FW 1-2
Assign to

main mix
Aux

Master
controls

Aux Send 1-2
to FW 13-14

Assign to
FW 15-16

7. In your audio software applications, select and
activate the inputs from the mixer and outputs
to the mixer.

FIREWIRE CONNECTIONS

Two FireWire connectors allow the transfer of
digital audio to and from your computer or digital audio
workstation (DAW). There are two identical connectors,
but you only need one. The other is used for connecting
additional devices if your mixer is using up your
computer's only FireWire connector. For example, you
could daisy-chain multiple Onyx 1620i mixers or add an
external hard drive since the FireWire connectors are
run in serial. Performance will vary based on system
hardware.

The FireWire interface provides the following outputs
to your computer:

• Individual channels, tapped pre-fader, and
either pre-EQ, or post-EQ (your choice).

• Aux send 1 and 2 for effects plug-in routing.

• Left/right main mix. The left/right main mix at
the FireWire output is not affected by the main
mix fader (important for recording live).

Use FireWire to record a live performance directly to

your

computer, then mixdown to a stereo mix later. Or
you can use it to turn your Onyx mixer into a
high-quality

computer audio interface for your DAW.

Quick Start Guide 15

FireWire also provides a return for two channels from

your computer to your mixer:

• These can be routed through the control
room/phones via
the computer audio

the FW 1-2 button, to monitor

through your control room
speakers or headphones (or through the main
speakers if assign to main mix is selected).

• Alternatively, these same two channels can
be routed through channels 15 and 16, and
treated just like any other channel, with
adjustment for gain, EQ, level, and pan, as
well as to solo, and add to the main mix and
aux sends 1-4. In this way, your stereo
computer source can be used alongside the
other channels as "just another source" in the
band, such as a virtual instrument, or the
output of a guitar going through
amp-modelling software. This routing is done
using the FW/line input selector switch on
channels 15-16.

• Note: Route the two channels from your
computer through the control room/
headphones or through channels 15-16.
Do not use both.

CONTROL ROOM FW 1-2

If this is engaged, you can listen to FireWire 1 and 2
playback from your computer in the control room and
headphones. This can also be added to the main mix if
control room assign to main mix is engaged. See below.

ASSIGN TO MAIN MIX

Engage the control room FW 1-2 switch and this
"assign to main mix" switch to play two tracks directly
from your computer through the control room/phones
source matrix and into the main mix. This is great for
listening to iTunes
your computer.

FireWire Connections

®

or other pre-recorded material from

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 pre-fader.)

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 benefi cial effect of our
Perkins EQ).

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.

INPUT (LINE or FW 1-2)

Mixer channel 15 and 16 can either be fed from the
1/4" stereo line-level inputs, or by FireWire outputs 1
and 2 from your computer. This switch lets you choose
which to use. Either way, channels 15 and 16 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.

FW Pre
or Post

48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V

MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE

SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO

Line/FW 1-2

FW 1-2
Assign to

main mix
Aux

Master
controls

Aux Send 1-2
to FW 13-14

Assign to
FW 15-16

16 Onyx 1620i

AUX SEND 1-2 to FW 13-14

Engage this button in the aux master section, and
a copy of aux send 1 and 2 outputs can be sent via
FireWire to your computer. This makes it possible to set
up a software effects processor thus-wisely:

• Set aux send 1 and/or 2 in post mode, by
pressing the post switch in the aux master
section.

• With "aux send 1-2 to FW 13-14" engaged, aux
send 1-2 are available for your computer via
FireWire signals 13 and 14. (Mixer channels
13-14 are no longer available to send via
FireWire.)

• Pass aux 1 or 2 through your audio production
software running effects plugins.

• Return the processed output to mixer channels
15 and 16 (input switch set to FW 1-2).

• Alternatively bring the processed sounds into
the control room (engage FW 1-2) and add it to
the main mix (engage assign to main mix).

• You can even use the computer as two separate
independent mono in, stereo out processors.
Have aux 1 go into one plugin, 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. Again,
performance will vary based on system
hardware.

Modifi cations:

The following FireWire modifi cations can be done by
an authorized service center. Authorized service centers
may be found online at:
www.mackie.com/scripts/service_centers/search.asp
Please contact our technical support department if you
are having trouble fi nding an authorized service center
in your area.

Post-Insert FireWire Sends

The pre-EQ channel FireWire sends are pre-insert,
but the circuit boards can be modifi ed so that they are
post-insert instead. This allows for the use of an
external processor on the mic or line signal, sending the
result to FireWire, while still pre-EQ.

Post-Fader FireWire Sends

The post-EQ channel FireWire sends are pre-fader,
but the circuit boards can be modifi ed so that they are
post-fader instead. This allows the channel fader to
control the level of the FireWire sends from each
channel.

ASSIGN to FW 15-16

Engage this button near the main fader, and the main
mix can be sent to your computer via Firewire. The
FireWire output is not affected by the main mix fader,
allowing you to record the main mix of live
performances. The left main mix will appear on
FireWire output signal 15, and the right on signal 16.
(When this button is engaged, mixer channels 15-16 are
not available to send via FireWire.)

Quick Start Guide 17

Technical Information

Specifi cations

Noise Characteristics:

Equivalent Input Noise (EIN), mic input at insert, 150 Ω source
impedance, 20 to 20 kHz:

60 dB (max) gain: -127 dBu
40 dB gain: -126.5 dBu

Equivalent Input Noise (EIN), mic input at insert, 50 Ω source
impedance, A-weighted:

60 dB (max) gain: -130.5 dBu

40 dB gain: -130 dBu

Output Noise Figure (1/4" Main out, all channels assigned to
main, Gain knobs at unity, 20 Hz to 20 kHz):

Main Mix knob down, channel Level knobs down:

-102 dBu (-106 dB SNR,
ref +4 dBu)

Main Mix knob unity, channel Level knobs down:

-92 dBu (-96 dB SNR,
ref +4 dBu)

Main Mix knob unity, channel Level knobs unity:

-88 dBu (-92 dB SNR,
ref +4 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:

44.1 kHz sample rate: -104 dB
96 kHz sample rate: -106.5 dB

Frequency Response:

Mic input to any output (all gain stages at unity):
+0/-0.5 dB, 20 Hz to 20k

Stereo channel line input to any output (all gain stages unity):
+0/-0.5 dB, 20 Hz to 20k

FireWire in and out (mic input to FireWire send, returned to
Control Room, all gain stages at unity):

44.1 kHz sample rate: +/-0.5 dB, 20 Hz to 20k

-3 dB at 21 kHz

96 kHz sample rate: +/-0.5 dB, 20 Hz to 20k

-3 dB at 45 kHz

Distortion (THD+N):

20 Hz to 20 kHz, 20 Hz to 80 kHz bandwidth

Mic input at insert
(+4 dBu in, 0 dB gain, +4 dBu out): 0.0057%

Mic input at insert
(-36 dBu in, +40 dB gain, +4 dBu out): 0.017%

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

Attenuation and Crosstalk:

@1 kHz relative to 0 dBu

Main Mix knob down: -85 dBu

Channel Alt/Mute switch engaged: -88 dBu

Channel Level knob down: -87 dBu

Common Mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR):

Mic input to insert, max gain, 1 kHz, 150 ohm termination:

-60 dB

Maximum Input Levels:

Mic input, gain at min (0 dB): +22 dBu

Mic input, gain at max (60 dB): –38 dBu

Line input, gain at -20 dB: +22 dBu

Instrument input, gain at -20 dB: +22 dBu

Tape input: +12 dBu

Aux return: +22 dBu

Maximum Output Levels:

All outputs: +22 dBu

Equalization

Mono Channels

Low: ±15 dB at 80 Hz

Lo-Mid frequency: 100 Hz to 2 kHz

Lo-Mid gain: ±15 dB

Hi-Mid frequency: 400 Hz to 8 kHz

Hi-Mid gain: ±15 dB

High: ±15 dB at 12 kHz

Stereo Channels:

Low: ±15 dB at 80 Hz

Mid: ±15 dB at 2.5 kHz

High: ±15 dB at 12 k

FireWire

Sample Rates Available: 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz,

88.2 kHz, 96 kHz

Buffer Size: 32 (44.1 kHz and 48 kHz
only), 64, 128, 256, 512,
1024, 2048 samples

Resolution: 24-bit

Meters

2-segment pre-fader channel meters:
OL (+18 dBu), -20 dBu

12-segment pre-fader Control Room meters:
OL (+20 dBu), +15, +10,
+6, +3, 0, -2, -4, -7, -10,

-20, -30 (0 dB = 0 dBu)

18 Onyx 1620i

Input Impedance:

Mic input: 2.8 kΩ balanced

Hi-Z input: 1 MΩ unbalanced

Mono channel line input: 30 kΩ balanced
15 kΩ unbalanced

Stereo Channel line input: 20 kΩ balanced
10 kΩ unbalanced

Output Impedance:

Main XLR output: 100 Ω balanced

Phones output: 25 Ω

Channel Inserts: 150 Ω

Tape Output: 2 kΩ

All other outputs: 300 Ω (balanced)

AC Power Requirements:

Power Consumption: 40 Watts

Universal AC Power Supply: 100 VAC – 240 VAC,
50-60 Hz

Dimensions

WEIGHT

20 lb

9.1 kg

Physical Dimensions and Weight

Height: 19.1 in/485 mm

Width 16.6 in/422 mm

Depth: 4.3 in/110.2 mm

Weight: 20 lb./9.1 kg

Options:

Rack Mount Kit

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 specifi cations at any time without notice.

“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.

The technical writer responsible for this manual tends to fade in and
out of various different realities, depending on how many cups of tea
he has had. Please check our website for any updates to this manual,
or updates to the PC drivers: www.mackie.com.

©2010 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved.

4.3 in / 110.2 mm

19.1 in / 485.0 mm

16.6 in / 422.0 mm

4.3 in /

110.2 mm

1.9 in / 47.7 mm

18.6 in / 471.5 mm

19.0 in/ 482.6 mm

Need help with your new mixer?

• Visit www.mackie.com and click Support to fi nd: FAQs, manuals, addendums, and other useful
information.

• Email us at: [e-mail].

• Telephone [phone] to speak with one of our splendid technical support chaps (Monday
through Friday, normal business hours, PST).

Quick Start Guide 19

Track Sheet

48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V 48V

MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE

SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO SOLO

20 Onyx 1620i

Track Sheet

• Session:

• Date:

• Notes:

Quick Start Guide 21

Block Diagram

Left

Line

Tape

Bal

Right

Bal

Main out

+4dBu

Mic level

Line

Alt out

Left/3

Phones

Right/4

Tape

level

Room

Control

Phones level

Meter

Left

Right

Control Room out

dim

C/R

FW1 to Ch 15

FW2 to Ch 16

Firewire to C/R

off

I/O

Firewire

L-R mix to FW inputs 15-16

Channels 15-16 to FW inputs 15-16

outputs

Firewire

16

Main Mix

Aux 1 level

Aux 2 out

Aux 1 out

FW 13

FW 14

Aux 3 level

Aux 2 level

Aux 4 out

Aux 3 out

Aux Masters 1-2 to FW 13-14

Aux 4 level

Channels 13-14 to FW inputs 13-14

logic
pfl
afl

afl L
aux 4 (po
aux 4 (pre)
aux 3 (post)
aux 3 (p

re)

aux 2 (po

re)

aux 2 (p
aux 1 (po
aux 1 (p

re)

A

lt

M

ain

LED

RUDE

SOLO

L

C/R

solo logic

R

C/R

C/R Source

off

Main

Alt 3/4

CD/Tape

afl

pfl

C/R to Main

Main level

(+10dB)

post

post

post

pre

Lsum

Rsum

Alt L/3 sum

Alt R/4 sum

L

CD/Tape in

R

pfl sum

afl L sum

afl R sum

Aux 1

pre

Aux 3

Aux 2

R

st)

st)

st)

R

/4

L/3

R
L

to Aux 1

Main L/R

Main L/R

Alt 3/4

mod3

Aux

sends

Pan

PK

-20

Level

mod2

HI

PK

-20

Alt 3/4

solo

Aux

sends

solo

Level

Pan

mod3

Level

to Main L/R

Level

to C-R

to Aux1-4

Talkback Assign

post

pre

pre

Aux 4

logic
pfl
afl

R

afl L
aux 4 (po

st)
aux 4 (pre)
aux 3 (post)
aux 3 (p

re)

st)

aux 2 (po

re)

aux 2 (p

st)

aux 1 (po

aux 1 (p

re)

R

/4

A

lt

L/3
R

M

ain

L

to FW out

4-Band EQ

80 100~2K 400~8K12K

LO MID MID

Insert

Post EQ, Post Insert

Pre EQ, Pr e Insert

FW Tap

mod1

3-Band EQ

75 Hz

bypass

Low Cut

HPF

HIMID

HIMID

80 2.5K 12K

LO

LO

mod2

mod2

80 2.5K 12K

To FW

To FW

Pre EQ, Pre Insert

Post EQ, Post Insert

FW Tap

Talkback

Level

Mic: 0 ~ +60dB

Line: -20 ~ +40dB

-

+

48V

Mic

Mono Channels

-

+

Gain

Line

Hi-Z

Line

Line

Hi-Z

Ch 1-2

22 Onyx 1620i

Aux Returns 2 and 4 are identical

Gain

-20 ~ +20dB

only)

(Ch.15-16

FW

Line

L

L

R

From FW ch. 1

Stereo

Channels

9-16

From FW ch. 2

Aux Return 1

L

R

R

Mic

Internal

Talkback

NOTE: Switches are shown in the default (out) position.

NOTE: Modifications (marked MOD above) must be undertaken by authorized LOUD service centers only

Aux Return 3

Mackie 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 fi nd
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 (toll­free in the U.S. and Canada) during normal business hours Pacifi c 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 specifi c 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,
modifi cation 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.

Quick Start Guide 23

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
Fax: [phone] • www.mackie.com
E-mail: [e-mail]