Mackie 1642VLZ4 16-Channel 4-Bus Audio Mixer

The Mackie 1642VLZ4 is a 16-channel analog mixer designed around Mackie's high-headroom, low-noise VLZ4 architecture. At its core are 10 Onyx mic preamps — the same preamp design found in Mackie's higher-end products — delivering clean gain with a wide dynamic range that handles everything from delicate condenser microphones to high-output dynamic mics. The 4-bus design allows operators to manage a main stereo mix alongside separate monitor or recording feeds, while four aux sends provide flexible routing to external effects or additional monitor mixes.

Built into a rugged steel chassis, the 1642VLZ4 is designed for reliability in both live and studio environments. Each channel features a 3-band EQ at musically useful fixed frequencies, and the mic channels include an 18 dB/octave low-cut filter at 75Hz to tame low-end rumble. Four stereo returns, the ALT 3/4 bus, and 60mm log-taper faders round out a feature set that gives operators practical, hands-on control without unnecessary complexity. For bands, houses of worship, small venues, and project studios that value clean analog sound and dependable performance, the 1642VLZ4 delivers professional results in a manageable format.