Compact Audio Mixer Review: Mackie 1402-VLZ3 (page 2)

We did some side-by-side tests with a Behringer UB1622fx-Pro, a similarly-designed compact mixer, to get an idea of how each processed an identical signal. We first wanted to know how the relative quality of the mic preamps differed, something that arguably separates the good from great boards. So we sent a pure sine wave signal that swept from 20 to 20,000Hz over 20 seconds, directly to a single-powered reference monitor (a Mackie HR824). We placed an AKG C414B large-diaphragm studio microphone two feet from the speaker and ran that signal into the XLR inputs of both mixers. All of the EQ sections were normalized, and we captured the output using Adobe's Audition at 48kHz. We then did a frequency analysis of each, comparing where and how often the signal departed from a smooth response. There were large excursions in both samples, but that was due to other variables like the speakers, mic, room, etc. But when we looked closely, we saw that the Mackie had far fewer and less pronounced variations in loudness across the entire frequency range. This means the 1402 influenced our original signal less than our comparison mixer..

We then recorded a voiceover, using the same mic on both the 1402 and the Behringer. To our ears, the Mackie had far more overall warmth, clarity and richness. We heard more of the vocal nuances, distinguishing between fricatives, sibilants and plosives (F, S and P), among others. These can create stridence or muddiness in the signal that poorer-quality processing gear doesn't handle well. Our comparison system emphasized the mid-range frequencies, lacking the warmth and clarity we heard in the 1402.

The 1402-VLZ3 is an excellent-sounding mixer that comes packed with plenty of Mackie ingenuity, flexibility, robustness and even humor. The well-written manuals have become practically a feature in themselves. Check out Mackie's online description of its Rude Solo light, for an example. While we did find some tactile shortcomings, none impacted the quality of signal processing. If you are looking for a solid performing mixer, the 1402 is a good value and a good investment.

Main Mix Noise (fader down): -101dBu
Signal to Noise: - 95dBu
Total Harmonic Distortion (mic pre @ insert): .0007%
Crosstalk (main mix fader down): -100dBu
Frequency Response (mic input to any output): 20Hz - 60kHz = +0db/-1dB
Phantom Power: for premium condenser mics
Weight: 9.5 lbs
Dimensions: 12.9" x 14" x 3.2"
Power Consumption: 120VAC, 50/60Hz, 25 watts

• All-metal case
• Excellent signal processing
• Great manual

• Quality issues with some knobs and faders
• No test tone

One of the best-sounding and most solidly-built mixers on the market today.

Contributing editor Brian Peterson is a video production consultant, trainer and lecturer.

Mackie
16220 Wood-Red Road NE
Woodinville, WA 98072
www.mackie.com

$520

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