Sound for Video Session - Mackie DLZ demo & Q&A

In this week's session, we demonstrate the Mackie DLZ Creator mixer for livestream and podcast. Then we'll answer your sound for video related questions.
If you’d like to learn how to make great dialogue audio for your film and video projects, please have a look at my courses at school.learnlightandsound.com including processing dialogue audio in Adobe Audition and DaVinci Resolve/Fairlight, recording sound, how to use the Zoom F4, F6, F8, and F8n, and how to get the most from the Sound Devices MixPre series of recorders. We have a course on sound for live-streaming with the ATEM Mini and just added Introduction to Izotope RX for Dialogue Audio.
Gear I often use or that we mentioned in this episode. The links below are Amazon.com, B&H Photo, Sweetwater, DVE Store, Waves, or other affiliate links. As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases:
- Mackie DLZ Creator - B&H, Amazon geni.us/42KrX0
- Earthworks ETHOS microphone - B&H, Sweetwater, Amazon geni.us/8G8UdBB
- Sound Devies 888 field recorder/mixer - Trew, B&H, Sweetwater geni.us/zAryW4J
- Sound Devices MixPre II Series Recorders - B&H, Sweetwater, Amazon geni.us/O8e0
- Panasonic GH5 camera - B&H, Amazon geni.us/InspOl
- Canon C200 Camera - B&H geni.us/9Zi4m4a
- Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 lens - B&H, Amazon geni.us/kZyU7e
- ATEM Mini Extreme & Extreme ISO - B&H, DVE Store, Amazon geni.us/b8my
- Allen & Heath SQ5 Digital Mixer - B&H, Sweetwater, Amazon geni.us/sRxFU90
- Rupert Neve Designs Shelford Channel, pre-amp, EQ, compressor - Sweetwater, B&H geni.us/9ZfE77
- Universal Audio 6176 channel strip pre-amp, EQ, compressor - B&H, Sweetwater, Amazon geni.us/505L55n
The intro and outro music for this episode is from Musicbed. Take your films to the next level with music from Musicbed. Sign up for a free account to listen for yourself: geni.us/G7by
Copyright 2023, Curtis Judd
00:00 Start
02:44 Beginning of stream
03:05 Agenda
03:35 About the Mackie DLZ Creator
05:50 UI and feature overview
07:59 Preamp cleanliness
12:45 Analog input dBU vs digital dBFS input
13:59 Outputting stereo vs 4 iso channels
14:57 Channel screen layout
16:15 Processing/routing overview
24:23 Settings
29:40 Sound pad banks
30:08 Simultaneous SD/USB recording?
30:28 DSP for self-noise?
30:57 SD recording format
32:15 Mix out vs poly WAV
33:06 Arming tracks mid-recording
33:34 Installing firmware
34:45 USB sample rate/bit depth
35:14 Control dial minutiae
36:03 DLZ vs Allen & Heath SQ5
36:56 Custom headphone mixes
43:36 Physical vs digital fader synchronization
44:30 Mackie software connectivity
45:10 Power input
45:55 Sound pad capabilities (in detail)
48:07 Losing power while recording
49:14 DLZ vs RODECaster Pro II
54:44 Processing chain order of operations
55:36 DLZ vs other RODEs, DBX
1:10:44 The Rude Solo Light
1:14:24 End of stream

[@EricLikness]

Thanks for the hands-on realtime, show and tell, and learning along the way. Love that sense of surprise, discovery and "Live" qualities one only gets with a live stream. This mixer looks very attractive if you need a digital mixer. And I also agree, 32bit float is a bit of feature creep, over fundamentals of learning how to record generally.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@averageguyyoga5638]

super helpful thank you for doing this

[@averageguyyoga5638]

Just finished setting up the DLZ and even with copying your exact settings the sound quality is already much better than I was getting on my rodecaster pro 1. I think you're being polite saying that the rodecaster and dlz are similar and I would say that the DLZ is significantly better sounding than the RCP1

[@KeithElphick]

Definitely in the Top three specialist presenters. Measured and balanced, and easy to consume and understand. Great.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Keith.

[@hienvu1714]

​@@curtisjuddHi Curtis. I was going to buy the Boss but bought the Mackie instead based on your video. I have a kinda dumb question and haven't been able to find the answer anywhere. I will have my mic, my digital piano, my guitar and my Mac Studio hooked up to the DLZ. I would like to play music from my Mac Studio. The Studio has headphones out but I can't imagine that would be the best way. Would I be able to play music from the Studio via USB A or USB C without needing to buy a DAC? Thank you!

[@curtisjudd]

@@hienvu1714 Yes, you'll set up one of the channels as USB from the computer. See page 90 in the manual.

[@andrewp1513]

Thanks for the explanation of low eq’s and filters on mixers…very helpful. Who else can I turn to for info like this?!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@theundergroundcitizen]

Also do all the channels have a mix minus feature, so you can ilmenite echo back on zoom platforms etc 😉

[@theundergroundcitizen]

Fantastic comparison. Just a thought, could I contact my Rocket 8s, to the head phones out put, and disable the mic, in the headphones mix would that then inturn turn of the volume to the mic into my rockets, so I can still here my music and still use the the mic with no feed back, like the rcp2 cheers 👍

[@xray111xxx]

My GAP-73 is around 80db. Wow that is allot of gain. Hope you're doing well Curtis. I am working to change careers on the creators side.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks and best wishes on the change!

[@WilliamKitchens]

No 32 bit Float? Wait for for the second release!

[@michaelj.4187]

sending love and peace to everyone...

[@curtisjudd]

And to you, Michael.

[@SuperSkyline2000]

Hello...can I program a button on the DLZ Creator to switch off the reverb and echo, for example? Thanks for your answer.

[@theundergroundcitizen]

Is there any way to prefade listen to the channel to make sure we are getting a live feed into that channel 🍻

[@xray111xxx]

Hmmm, I thought you have a C70 Curtis. You have a C200 too. Wow, I just got a C100 recently. Amazing camera these C series Canons.

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, the C200 was our corporate video camera we added in early 2020 and then added the C70 in late 2020.

[@xray111xxx]

Backup power can be done with a UPS. Not a great solution but better than nothing. Not sure if having that annoying alarm from the UPS being an issue.

[@curtisjudd]

A small solar generator is another option.

[@LighthouseFactsFiguresMy-qd6qh]

Hi Curtis. The gripe I have with my DLZ after purchasing one after your excellent overview is this. In the recorder section I cannot chop and cut out unwanted segments like I can on my DAW timeline (Adobe Audition). On most Audio mixer recorders you can edit onboard. This is not possible on the device itself right? So do I have to double record to my DAW to edit properly. This kind of negates all the production effects on board when I can do this all in my DAW, which seems like s double up to me, and isn't clearly explained in any review I've found. Or, am I completely missing something here ? Also what type of multitrack files am I playing with here, and will my DAW automatically recognise these files as independent tracks. Thanks

[@ChroniclesofGhoul]

Hi Curtis, hopefully not a stupid question, but without fb increments on the channel meters, I assumed that unity was 0db, but was curious how I know what each other incremental line on the screen means, e.g. if I want to record at -12 to 18fb, where does the level need to be peaking? Thank you

[@mvekbatan6329]

Hello. Thank you for this video tutorial.🙏🙏 In this device, the effect is created on each line separately and can it be changed? I remember that in Zoom H8, the effect was created only on one line.

[@curtisjudd]

On the DLZ, you use sends from each channel to the reverb or delay. All of the other effects are in the setup for the individual channels.

[@mvekbatan6329]

@@curtisjudd @Curtis Judd Thank you very much for your reply🙏. Another question is: One of the features of the Dynacord mixer is that we can simultaneously record the sound in raw form (using Line Aux or monitor) and with effects (using Line Master) on the computer. Does DLZ have such a capability?🤔

[@curtisjudd]

@@mvekbatan6329 You can record the isolated channels pre-faders and the mix - if that's similar to the Dynacord?

[@scottslinker1211]

How to you recommend recording time sync using the MackieDLZ? I am using the LR stereo out into my Panasonic Lumix G. But am also recording in the field with my iPhone and Lumix G with a shotgun mic. I need to be able to edit all these separate video and audio files in Davinci Resolve 18.5. Do you use a Tentaclesync or Deity TC-1 with your Mackie DLZ?

[@curtisjudd]

I usually just clap at the start of the take.

[@AdamTroup]

Just got the mackie dlz creator after having watcjed what feels like every video on youtube! I tried taking it into my GH6 via XLR adaptor and the audio actually seems to be out of sync - behind the video by 2 frames. Im guessing this is due to its latency. Does this mean these mixers with greater latency arent actually as good for outputting straight into a camera? Bringing it in via usb means it arrived first and I can add extra delay to the audio

[@curtisjudd]

The 5ms latency of the DLZ should not create a 2 frame synce issue. If you film at 30 frames per second, each frame is 33ms. So there’s a bigger latency contributor somewhere else as well if the recordings are off by 2 frames.

[@freeway3261]

Hi Cutis, i purchased the DLZ and i though i had everything figured out as a newbie...i recorded and my Sss are horrible. How do you suggest i fix it in post if i can and what can i do with the DLZ to eliminate that as much as possible..its a newbie question for sure and im sure ill have more challenging questions if i ever figure the DLZ creator out

[@DonClair-D2thaC]

So my question is about the output sound. I've got levels recording into Adobe Audition but playback is a no go. I can also see playback levels on 1/2 or if I switch to 3/4 I can see levels. How do I control the listening levels for the monitors?

[@curtisjudd]

You're using it as an audio interface to play back audio from your computer?

[@DonClair-D2thaC]

@@curtisjudd Yes I figured it out....7/8 had to be changed around, but this they never said in the instructions...smh I am on my way

[@eldiehabak8032]

Las vegas

[@paweplinta1565]

Thanks. Can I increase the number of mic inputs by connecting the Mackie DLZ to a computer and another audio interface? Option two. Can I connect a microphone preamplifier to the line inputs of the Mackie DLZ?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, or another mixer to the inputs on the DLZ.

[@paweplinta1565]

@@curtisjudd Thank you very much. Greetings from a fan from Poland

[@charlieodegaard7081]

Does this thing have direct monitoring for audio tracking?

[@robertpdavenportii2908]

Wha is a good auto mixer you can recommend?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Robert, MixAssist for the Sound Devices MixPre recorders is very good.

[@zandtussenjetenen]

Hi.thanks for the vid. But is the problem with switching banks solved? Because that sucked..Hate that kinda things..

[@curtisjudd]

Not in the first firmware update that I saw.

[@94GUNDAM]

Thanks for the stream. I'm trying to decide DLZ and Yamaha DM3. Do you think the 5ms latency is noticable enough to justify paying twice as much for clost to 0 latency? Also how good is DLZ for Karaoke purpose?

[@curtisjudd]

It depends. If you're doing karaoke, I don't think the 5ms is a problem at all. You could probably make the DLZ work for karaoke, though I've not done it so I can't really speak from experience.

[@94GUNDAM]

@@curtisjudd Appreciate the honest opinion! By the way, does DLZ have ability to do preFX or preEQ send for each input to independent channels? Also can the auto ducking parameters be adjusted?

[@curtisjudd]

@@94GUNDAM If I understand your question correctly, no, the routing is not that sophisticated on the DLZ.Also, no, no parameters for auto ducking, just on/off. Sounds like the Yamaha may be a better option for what you're looking to achieve.

[@xray111xxx]

Upload speed is critical and so is latency and data loss or packet loss events.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@EtherGamerNetwork]

I have a question. When I record on this unit and press media to play what I recorded, I don’t hear anything. Do I have to have the monitor speakers hooked up to hear my recording on the actual unit?

[@curtisjudd]

See page 52 in the owner's manual. Short version - go into channel 9/10, set the channel source to disk, move the channel 9/10 fader up to unity, then play back from the media tab.

[@EtherGamerNetwork]

@@curtisjudd awesome thank you very much for your time.

[@kaithefilmgeek]

Hi there...just discovered this mixer and was wondering if it uses the Mackie protocol...so I could use it in the Resolve Fairlight page as well?

[@curtisjudd]

If it does, it is not documented.

[@kaithefilmgeek]

@@curtisjudd Thanks...

[@easthertsradio]

The auto duck seems very slow to respond and release. ver 1.2. Can'e see any adjustments

[@joseluisruiz3789]

Do you know if this unit can be used for Music making without using a DAW on a computer? I asked mackie this but unfortunately its been Crickets...... what im looking for is a unit where i can do livestreams which my RCP2 does paired with a Yolobox Pro but i also wanted to use it to make music like record a piano tune on channel 1 and then replay channel 1 and accompany a new recording with a Bass or Guitar on track 2 etc as a standalone unit. I bought my RCP2 because rode had mentioned that they made the RCP2 with musicians in mind but never mentioned their device required a DAW in their presentation which i probably wouldn't have bought it and waited for the Duo if all i can do with it is have good audio for livestreaming with my YoloboxPro. Unfortunately i havent been able to find any answers about that for this unit.

[@curtisjudd]

No, it is NOT a stand-alone overdub recorder. That only works with a DAW.

[@creativegreatsvisuals]

@@curtisjuddwhat is daw ? How can I record in daw with Mac Studio ultra ? How would you record music with this ? Because it’s said a producer could send u over a beat or melody and you can record vocals in this

[@curtisjudd]

@@creativegreatsvisuals DAW is a digital audio workstation app like Pro Tools, Studio One, Cubase, Garage Band, etc.

[@creativegreatsvisuals]

@@curtisjudd I have logic so how do I hook this mackie up to record to logic ?

[@curtisjudd]

@@creativegreatsvisuals You connect the Mackie to your Mac via USB and then set up channels in logic just like with any other audio interface..

[@andreia_6666]

Can i add plugins on? For exemple can i use autotune with this mackie?

[@curtisjudd]

No, this doesn't run VST, AU, or AAX plugins if that's what you mean? However, you can use this as an audio interface with a computer where you run a DAW app and the DAW app can run the plugins.

[@77netwar]

How do I connect a second computer or gaming console to the Mackie DLZ Creator? The RCP2 has two usb inputs, but the DLZ does not. Any recommendations?

[@clemradio]

You could connect the computer via the stereo 1/8” inputs. Same for gaming console. You might night an adapter but it’s doable

[@curtisjudd]

Or Bluetooth.

[@timmanning9]

Does it come with any apps or software that extends the functionality of the device? Like the Rode Unity/Connect or Mixcast 4?

[@LearnLightAndSoundSessions]

No, it is completely self-contained so you don't even need a computer if that works better for your workflow. But if you want to stream or record to your computer, you can.

[@timmanning9]

@@LearnLightAndSoundSessions Thanks. For clarification... You mentioned the Pearl Nano in your video streaming workflow with the device. Would you recommend just adding a video camera assuming it had built-in live streaming support without getting a Atem/Pearl nano?

[@curtisjudd]

@@timmanning9 If that works for you, that would certainly be a simpler setup! I haven't tried any of the streaming cameras, so I can't speak from experience. You'll definitely want to get input from others on their experience with the cameras you're considering.

[@markusrytilahti]

Hi! How many input channels can be set to NDI out at the same time?

[@curtisjudd]

Not sure I understand the question, but the NDI feed is the stereo mix. So all of the channels that are included in the mix are sent out via NDI as a stereo mix.

[@markusrytilahti]

@@curtisjudd Thanks! Then i know. Would have liked to be able to convert every single input channel to a separate NDI feed not "just" a stereomix. But anyway seems lika a nice product!

[@patrickdonegan9559]

does a stylus work to select the bank?

[@curtisjudd]

One for capacitive touch screens would, yes.

[@EtherGamerNetwork]

One more question, how do you get the audio off of the Mackie without popping out the USB or SD card?

[@curtisjudd]

I don't believe there is an option for this with the current firmware. 1 August 2023.

[@EtherGamerNetwork]

@@curtisjudd they really have some work today on the software, when you have duck on, it ducks everything, even your caller! Lol.

[@curtisjudd]

@@EtherGamerNetwork I assume you’re looking for it to only duck a music track. That’s good feedback for Mackie.

[@rafalonso13]

Hi i was wondering if you can help me with a doubt I have , I’m currently using a maonocaster e2 connected via live output to my mixamp pro (Xbox) so I can use my microphone in chat, it works great, but I want to upgrade to the mackie , I was wondering if it also have a live output option like the maonocaster , Hope you can help

[@curtisjudd]

I'm not familiar with the live output feature of the Maonocaster e2. What is it, what does it do, how does it work?

[@rafalonso13]

@@curtisjudd I think is analog output, I’m not shure how it works or how I should deceive it , but it makes it so I can hear the games and chat on the Xbox and I can use the my xlr microphone

[@curtisjudd]

@@rafalonso13 if it is balanced analog outputs, you can use two cable from that to 1/4” balanced inputs on the DLZ. If it is an unbalanced output, there’s a stereo 3.5mm unbalanced input on the DLZ you can use. If you’re not sure, the documentation should say.

[@EtherGamerNetwork]

Can you switch to record in MP3 opposed to wave?

[@curtisjudd]

No, I believe it just records wav. If you connect to a computer and use it as an interface, you can use a DAW that can probably save to mp3 format.

[@EtherGamerNetwork]

@@curtisjudd Thank you very much. They really need an app, so you don’t have to keep pulling out the SD card, if you record your podcast on the DLZ.

[@kevinfeeley8406]

Is there no remote control app for say an iPad?

[@curtisjudd]

No, at least not yet. The faders and touch screen sort of eliminate the need for an iPad app.

[@kevinfeeley8406]

@@curtisjudd I think the ability to remote control is a great option. I use a QSC TM 18 and Behringer X32 consoles for live events. Having the ability to remote control is a big help. The New Yamaha DM3 also offers it.

[@curtisjudd]

@@kevinfeeley8406 understood. Maybe they’ll add it, I don’t know. With only 4 inputs, this seems to be aimed at a different audience than the other mixers.

[@airwarorg]

Yeah, but what about a new DLZ for $800 versus a mew Rodecaster Pro 2 for $400 That's my choice... and the pro for the Mackie is a Dark Theme this visual impaired person can read. The pro for the Rodecaster is 4 years of matured development and at least 2 usb ports to connect to 2 different computers. And it's half the price.

[@curtisjudd]

If it’s feature set is a better fit for you, then RODECaster Pro all the way for you!

[@zandtussenjetenen]

Beware of that very tiny screen of the RCP2..10 INCH should be minimum..after an hour my eyes hurt..So I ordered the Mackie. Price difference in EU is not that much €675 vs €800 for Mackie..

[@airwarorg]

@@zandtussenjetenen Believe it or not, I think OBS Sudio can do a lot of what I want... I've already got it set up to play several VLC tracks and audio inputs... why mix on an external device when you can mix it all right inside your comptuer... on a huge 1080p monitor :)

[@michaelj.4187]

hmmm...gourmet tacos...hold that fish sandwich forever...yikes

[@curtisjudd]

I could not agree more!