Mackie ProFX16v3 Review and Overview

Tim takes a look at the Mackie ProFX v3 analog mixer features and options. Is this the best small analog mixer for small churches who need a seperate mix for live streaming? Maybe! 😉
Mic Used: EV RE-320
Interface: Mackie ProFX 16 v3
Camera Used: Canon SL2
Background Photo: Markus Spiske on Unsplash
Channel Music: • Video
0:00 - 0:36 - Introduction
0:37 - 1:14 - Main Outputs and USB Connection
1:15 - 1:47 - Hi-Z 1/4" instrument inputs
1:48 - 2:13 - Line Inputs, XLR Mic Inputs
2:14 - 2:53 - Stereo Inputs 1/4" and 1/8" (3.5mm) stereo aux cable input
2:54 - 3:35 - USB 3 4 Return channel
3:36 - 4:34 - Low Cut Filter 100Hz
4:35 - 4:55 - Level Set Light, Gain Set Light
4:56 - 5:34 - One Knob Compressor
5:35 - 7:24 - High EQ, Sweepable Mid EQ, Low EQ
7:25 - 7:48 - Tim's Two Rules of EQ
7:49 - 8:11 - Aux Mix Monitor 1, 2 Pre-fader
8:12 - 8:41 - Aux Mix Monitor 3 Pre-fader or Post-fader assignment
8:42 - 9:01 - FX Mix and Pan Control
9:02 - 9:29 - Mute Button
9:30 - 10:28 - Main Faders, Main and Subgroup Assignment, PFL and Solo
10:29 - 10:56 - Aux Outputs, Using FX Mix as Monitor 4
10:57 - 11:20 - Subgroup Outputs and Control Room Outputs
11:21 - 11:45 - Phantom Power
11:46 - 12:44 - Onboard FX (Effects)
12:45 - 13:30 - FX Mute and Footswitch connection
13:31 - 13:58 - "Rude" Solo Light
13:59 - 14:28 - Routing FX to Monitor Mixes
14:29 - 14:54 - Aux or Monitor Mix Masters
14:55 - 15:07 - Control Room and Headphone Volume Control
15:08 - 16:32 - Blend Knob
16:33 - 16:52 - Break Button
16:53 - 17:36 - Master Fader, Subgroup Faders, FX Fader
17:37 - 18:34 - Conclusion, Opinion

[@davidbachy5627]

Great job presenting a complex topic into simple bite size lessons.

[@proclaimav4197]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ericgagne930]

Just came across this Video, thank you, this cleared up a few questions that I had regarding this Mixer!

[@proclaimav4197]

Glad it was helpful!

[@dixiefallas7799]

Thanks for this we have one coming tomorrow. I just want simplicity for my live band with decent effects. I hope this a winner. Cheers.

[@proclaimav4197]

Good luck!

[@andyperrigo5000]

The "Rude Solo" hearkens back to the humorous way Mackie used to write its manuals.

[@proclaimav4197]

And they still do! According to the manual this model has a built in pencil sharpener and a Theremin. 😆

[@johnschmidt544]

This is EXCELLENT! Thank you for this!

[@proclaimav4197]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Vangelismusic1]

Thanks! for the review GREAT JOB!

[@proclaimav4197]

Thanks for watching!

[@vermonthillsumc]

VERY helpful. Thank you

[@proclaimav4197]

You're Welcome. 😃

[@Ozzy83666]

I have the 22 and I absolutely love it. It's my baby.

[@proclaimav4197]

Good little budget mixers!

[@Ozzy83666]

For sure 🔥

[@phillipfornett1802]

Great tutorial !

[@proclaimav4197]

Thank you!

[@malice96th66]

Great board ... I use that and the 12 .

[@proclaimav4197]

Nice 👍

[@traaaaan]

I am doing LEFT/RIGHT audio tests for MAIN and CONTROL ROOM outs. The MAIN out works fine to my desktop monitors. I have a headphone amp connected to the CR out but the for some reason I hear both the L and R on each side simultaneously. I am essentially getting a mono mix through the CR out to the headphone amp . I have tried both TRS and TS to RCA cables. I have verified the headphone amp I am trying to use is not the issue by bypassing the mixer and the sound test works fine going direct to the headphone amp.

[@proclaimav4197]

Here is the only thing I think could be the issue. From the user manual: "The signal leaving the CR outs may also accept a post-blend mix of the inputs and USB return if the “To Phones / Control Room” switch is engaged. More information about this switch (and the “Blend” knob) may be found on page 20."

[@channelgoera]

Hi...... I recently bought the ProFx16V3 mixer and I just wish I could adjust the parameters of the onboard Gig-effects. I wanted to know if there is any way to connect my external Lexicon FX Processor to the ProFx16 V3 mixer ? I could not find the FX return or any stereo return on the mixing board. I am just a beginner and I seek your advice and guidance. Thank you.

[@proclaimav4197]

Yes the Pro FX does not have a dedicated effects return. However you can patch the output back into a stereo channel on the board. For example, come out of Aux 4 and into the processor, out of the processor into Channel 15/16. Just make sure that on channel 15/16 your knob is turned down for aux 4 or you will get an interesting loop. 😛

[@sk060]

I have a question what is the difference between AUX out and Sub Out I'm little confused , also if i hook up an amp to the Aux 4 like a monitor how do you control the volume on it , thank you.

[@proclaimav4197]

For an explanation the difference between Aux and Subgroups check out my "Mixer Basics" video kzbin.info/www/bejne/imLcaZagnsx8ars The knobs in the "Aux Master" block control volume of each Aux mix.

[@sharanvipsy3473]

Hi Tim - really excellent video thank you! I have a question on the Mon out. I use an in ear monitor set up and wanted to get a stereo out. I think the Mon out is only mono - is that right and if so is it possible to get a stereo out (ideally with more vocal on one ear monitor and the rest of the bamd on the other) thank you for your time!

[@proclaimav4197]

Correct. It is mono out. You could probably use two aux mixes to create the mix you describe. One for left and one for right.

[@erickalseco8808]

Is it normal when i use the left and right option between channel 9to14 going to my laptop 3.5mm audio jack the gain knob can't control but when i insert the mic the gain working normal.

[@proclaimav4197]

According to the Manual, on "hybrid channels (mic input and stereo line input), the gain control just affects the microphone input." 👍

[@videoactive234]

Hi there Tim, thanks for the tutorial. My local jam space uses this make/model. I have been recording our jams with a Zoom H4N and have been getting ugly reverb FX on the recordings. Our lead vocalist DOES like to hear reverb in the room which is fine but I need a clean, dry signal from his mic line for recordings. I plug the Zoom into the AUX out. How do I send reverb FX to the room but not my recording? Regards, Paul.

[@proclaimav4197]

Hi Paul, Here are two options: 1. Route the mics you want to record into Subgroup 1-2 or 3-4 using the subgroup assignment buttons on each channel. Plug into the "Sub Out" 1&2 or 3&4 with the Zoom. Turn up the Sub 1-2 or 3-4 fader, just make sure that the Sub1-2 or Sub3-4 fader is not routed back into the L-R of the main mix (there's a button at top.) 2. Try using a Monitor mix, turning on the mics you want in the Monitor mix but Not turning up the FX in the Monitor mix. Then you should be able to record the output of the Monitor mix but it will be mono. Hope that helps.

[@proclaimav4197]

BTW Paul, this is just an overview. Check out this video for an analog mixer tutorial. 😀 kzbin.info/www/bejne/imLcaZagnsx8ars

[@Peternakkece]

When we adjust the hi mid low, are they effect the aux 1 and 2 in the monitor?

[@proclaimav4197]

Yes sir.

[@Ilitan004]

Hi! Watching this after the 2 "Analog Mixer Basics", first of all, thank you, this is very informative and useful. Second, my questions then : What are the options of the USB Output there? Does it route a L/R signal of the Main, or is it possible to get the full 16 lines independently. If so, is it before or after EQ, effects and compression? Actually, here is my situation : I love drumming, and I like to stream it on twitch. So as it's live, I guess a mixer is better than an audio interface. Buuut, I'm also in a band, and so being able to also use it to record properly and use post-treatment would be a great option to have. If you have other products you could advice me, or really just enlighten me about what you would buy in order to do this, I'd be very happy. As of now, I only have the mics (Audix i5, D6, and 2 SE Se8 overhead).

[@proclaimav4197]

Thanks! This mixer only has stereo out from the L/R mix so its not great for capturing more than two tracks. If you want to multitrack, plus mix a live band (with monitors) Mackie offers the Onyx Series Mixers with multitrack output. Just note that they don't have onboard compressors. I would check out the Tascam Model 16 Mixer. Other options include the Soundcraft Signature 22 MTK Mixer (Only the MTK has multitrack output.) and the PreSonus StudioLive AR16c. If you thinking about going to a tablet based mixer, the Behringer X Air XR18 has multitrack output as well. Happy hunting!

[@MichaelDaniels]

Thanks for the video. So with this system I can not have echo on my mic and and then have reverb on my bass, right? It is all or nothing for everything

[@proclaimav4197]

Correct. It only has one onboard reverb unit. You could add a reverb pedal for your bass? Thanks for watching!

[@pontianaksenibudaya2986]

The Best

[@proclaimav4197]

Thanks for watchin'!

[@calvindavis7591]

I watched your tutorial on mixers and amps and need a recommendation on a mixer. I need a mixer I can plug in instruments, some vocal microphones and maybe four drum mics and play them through some Peavey pa speakers. Something simple and not too expensive. Thanks

[@proclaimav4197]

Hi Calvin, consultation is available if you like, but I'm lacking too many details. Thanks!

[@kibret12345]

Thanks. Gained a subscriber!

[@proclaimav4197]

Welcome aboard!

[@sethnfrink]

Do you need a power amp for stage monitors?

[@proclaimav4197]

Hi Seth. Yes you will. This board is entirely passive. Thanks for watchin'!

[@bowiemartin3656]

Thanks!

[@proclaimav4197]

Thank you so much. You're my first Super Thanks!

[@moisinio11]

Thanks

[@proclaimav4197]

You're welcome!

[@JamesMThayer]

If I wanted to add a subwoofer to a live set up, would I just plug it into one of the monitor/Aux 1/4 outs?

[@proclaimav4197]

You got it. Then just use that Aux Mix to send the channels you want to your Sub.

[@davidecicero5034]

Hi Tim! Thanks for your videos, are useful and extremely well done. I've just watched your analog mixer tutorial and this review. Which mixer do you suggest for a church? The Mackie ProFX16v3 or the Behringer Xenyx QX2442? I was thinking the behringer (for the price too, honestly). Plus, I have a silly question: even if i don't buy the Behringer ULM202USB the first 2 channels of the QX2442 could be used as normale channels, right? Thanks in advance, you're great. I think I'll watch all your videos!

[@proclaimav4197]

Both are solid choices for small churches IMO. Yes, the first two can be used as regular channels.

[@ihzu123]

Hi! I have a question that no one has been able to answer, so im trying my luck here haha: I would like to take the sound from the console directly to a camcoder, by connecting it to the mic input on the camcoder. I already tried it using a tlr with one 6.3mm (to the console) and a 3.5mm (to the mic input on the camcoder) and it didnt work. Maybe I have to connect it at a specific output on the console? Maybe i need to raise the level of a knob and i dont know it? I hope you can help me 🙏

[@proclaimav4197]

First you will probably need a line to mic level attention cable or you will get a lot of distortion because your mixer puts out line level power and the camcorder is expecting mic level power. (Much weaker) check the signal coming out of the mixer before plugging in the camera (with a small powered speaker for example.) It's also useful to Google your camera model and see if others have successfully connected it. Hope that helps!

[@premiere3610]

What is the meaning of the BAL / UNBAL output in the AUX OUT and SUB OUT section. Is that stereo or mono?

[@proclaimav4197]

Balanced and unbalanced are both mono. Balanced is like an XLR but has three contacts on the 1/4 cable and Unbalanced is like a 1/4 with two contacts.

[@premiere3610]

@@proclaimav4197 wow thank you

[@george19990]

Hey, thanks for the video, cleared up some things for me. However, apparently only when I press the 48v button the mixer respond, connected to the computer. Otherwise whatever I do the microphone doesn’t work

[@proclaimav4197]

If you're using a condenser microphone it definitely needs phantom power. (48v)

[@george19990]

Which microphone do you recommend using?@@proclaimav4197

[@proclaimav4197]

I like the Senneheiser e835 personally.

[@Guitarist888]

Can that be used in FL studio for mixing and mastering?

[@proclaimav4197]

While you can, in my opinion, there are better options for recording, this is mostly a live mixer.

[@Guitarist888]

@@proclaimav4197 gotcha! Thanks for replying!

[@MaleficDowery]

@@proclaimav4197what are the better options?

[@andyperrigo5000]

Also, I noticed that you really had to gain-up that pro broadcast mic...that might be important to know for some folk.

[@proclaimav4197]

Yes, it took quite a bit to drive it but there was still gain left. 60db of gain overall.

[@jayveeamolato9429]

is the Sub out is for the Subwoofer?

[@proclaimav4197]

The Sub Outs are for subgroups. Check out this video for more info: kzbin.info/www/bejne/imLcaZagnsx8ars Thanks for watchin'!

[@jayveeamolato9429]

@@proclaimav4197 Thanks

[@eligayadan3805]

Can i multi track on this mixer?

[@proclaimav4197]

Unfortunately, it will only do two tracks at a time. You might check out the Tascam Model 12, 16, or 24.

[@pietromoko]

how it sound?

[@proclaimav4197]

it sounds good. You have been listening to it for the entire review. The review was recorded using the ProFX.

[@abramosekhawas2925]

Is it good for small church setup?

[@proclaimav4197]

Indeed. I've installed this exact mixer for several small churches.

[@puntmaster9896]

This or the Yamaha MG16XU?

[@proclaimav4197]

It's a tough decision but the Mackie has one extra mic pre-amp and it has inserts where the Yamaha does not. Just little extras.

[@Peternakkece]

@@proclaimav4197 agree

[@thecentralscrutinizerr]

There's no excuse for modern mixers not having a built in Bluetooth connection. None. I have a 16 channel mixer from Rockville that has a built in MP3 player through USB AND Bluetooth connectivity. So I can play music from files stored on a USB stick or stream the music wirelessly through a Bluetooth paired device, which could be a laptop, tablet, or smart phone.

[@proclaimav4197]

I agree, its great to have these built and not have to carry extra gear. 😀 However, many mixer companies have stopped adding features that may become obsolete. For example, Mackie got burned on their DL mixers when they committed to Apple's 30 pin dock, leaving a lot of people with an obsolete mixer when Apple changed the iPad port. 🤦‍♂️