Mackie 1642-VLZ4

This is the second 1642 I've owned. Been a Mackie owner and user of their fine products since the early 90's. This new model offers a better class of Onyx preamp - clean quiet and loads of headroom. Otherwise it's mostly a direct clone of the previous models with some cosmetic changes. The overall footprint is a teensy bit smaller than before. They removed the scribble strip area at the bottom of the fader channels which I already miss. I'm not a huge fan of the new redesigned plastic fader knobs (they are smaller than before) but that's a subjective call. It sounds great and has the same Mackie tank-like feel. Should provide years of excellent service. I recommend it! Have also say Sweetwater continues to impress. I had the board in my hands 24 hours after placing the order. The sales staff (hi Jeff!) is the best in the world. Best wishes to everyone at Sweetwater and much success to you in 2016!

From the first Mackies to the now, the sound has really warmed up. These preamps are great, VLZ really means VLZ. This mixer is a keeper. Wish they made a 1242.

there is no denying it, Mackie is the perfect middle of the road board. Affordable, durable, and flexible. I'm glad I went with the VLZ4 instead of the proFX or the DL series. For a little extra money I got nice, clean preamps, 4 aux sends end for subgroup abilities, as well as direct out, stereo returns, send smooth pod and fader movement. Makes this great board for mixing live or recording. The one thing I am missing from profx it's the onboard effects, but using separate rack or digital in-the-box effects is a breeze with all of these sends and returns.