Mackie 1604-VLZ3

^# 89

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$174.52 Price Tier: Standard

4.5 (8)

1 Critic Review

2 Reviews

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

Newer option

Mackie 1642 VLZ4

$655.00 - $799.99

5.0 (2)

Find out who is using Mackie 1604-VLZ3

2 community setups

4 wishlisted

17 saved

Page last updated Jul 03, 2026

Pricing and availability

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Price

4.0 (6)

$174.52 6 available Used

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Average Price: $612

Standard/Professional

$200

$1001+

Price Tier

In the Mixers category, Mackie 1604-VLZ3 is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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Description

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Experience the perfect blend of legacy and innovation with the Mackie 1604-VLZ3. Building on the success of the 1604 series, this mixer maintains the top-notch quality that made its predecessors a hit, while embracing modern technology to cater to the ever-evolving needs of musicians. With its consumer-friendly nature and its ability to deliver exceptional sound, this device embodies Mackie's commitment to providing excellent value.

Key Features:

Continuation of the esteemed 1604 series
Combines traditional quality with modern advancements
Consumer-friendly, suitable for both beginners and professionals
Known for delivering exceptional sound
Represents Mackie's promise of outstanding value

Product specs

Brand	Mackie
Model	1604-VLZ3 16-Channel Mic / Line Mixer
Finish	Black
Year	2008 - 2014
Categories	Audio Mixers, Consoles and Summing Boxes
Electronics	Analog, Solid State
Format	Desktop Standalone
Number of Analog Inputs	28
Number of Analog Outputs	23
Number of Channels	16
Number of Digital Inputs	0
Number of Digital Outputs	0
Number of Headphone Outputs	1
Number of MIDI Inputs	0
Number of MIDI Outputs	0

FAQs

How many channels does the Mackie 1604-VLZ3 mixer have?: The Mackie 1604-VLZ3 mixer features 16 channels, providing ample input options for various audio sources.
Does the Mackie 1604-VLZ3 support phantom power for condenser microphones?: Yes, the Mackie 1604-VLZ3 provides phantom power, making it suitable for use with studio condenser microphones.
What type of EQ does the Mackie 1604-VLZ3 mixer offer?: The Mackie 1604-VLZ3 includes a 3-band Active EQ with a sweepable midrange, allowing for precise tonal adjustments on each channel.
Can the Mackie 1604-VLZ3 be rack-mounted?: Yes, the Mackie 1604-VLZ3 has a rack-mountable design with three physical configurations via a rotating I/O pod for flexible installation.
What is the dynamic range of the Mackie 1604-VLZ3 mixer?: The Mackie 1604-VLZ3 mixer features a dynamic range of 130dB, ensuring high-quality audio performance with minimal noise.
How many aux sends are available on the Mackie 1604-VLZ3?: The Mackie 1604-VLZ3 offers 4 aux sends per channel, providing versatile routing options for effects and monitoring setups.
What is the frequency response of the Mackie 1604-VLZ3 mixer?: The Mackie 1604-VLZ3 mixer offers an extended low frequency response, ensuring a full and rich sound across the audio spectrum.

Videos

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gearwire

Mackie 1604 VLZ3: Bob DiFazio Introduces A Very Popular Mixer

gearwire

MACKIE 1604 Mixer Old & New Comparison

MonsterMidi

Mackie 1604 VLZ3: What's New With The Latest Version Of The Mackie 1604's EQ

gearwire

Reviews

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PROS

Extensive routing options simplify complex studio and live setups
Parametric EQ and preamps enhance sound quality over digital alternatives
Intuitive layout with easily accessible controls for seamless operation
Robust construction ensures durability and reliability
Suitable for both studio and live performances with versatile application

CONS

Lack of direct outs for every channel limits some recording setups
Higher price point compared to competitors with more features

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Mackie 1604-VLZ3.

Comparisons

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The VLZ series is compared to older Behringer Eurorack mixers, with users finding it not as solid as the CR1604 but better than older Behringers.
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Features and functionality

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The VLZ lacks the desirable overdrive characteristics of the CR1604, which some users prefer for its colored sound.
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The Apollo Twin MK II's headphone output disables monitor outputs, complicating live routing with the Mackie 1604 VLZ3.
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Setup and maintenance

0 0

Potential buyers should thoroughly test all sliders and buttons for crackling, as it can become very annoying over time.
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Use cases and applications

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Users looking for overdrive effects might consider using external processors or digital solutions, as the VLZ series doesn't provide the desired overdrive effect.
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Users face challenges integrating Mackie 1604 VLZ3 with Apollo Twin MK II for live sound due to limited outputs and routing complexities.
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Value and pricing

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A price of 150 euros is considered suspiciously low, suggesting buyers should check everything before purchasing.
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Software and compatibility

0 0

Virtual channels in UA console can help route sound for live use, but integration with older mixers like the Mackie 1604 VLZ3 is tricky.
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Other

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Tech from different eras, like the 1991 Mackie and 2020 Apollo, often have compatibility issues, akin to plugging an iPhone into Windows XP.
Source

Critic Reviews

Mackie 1604-VLZ3 16-Channel/4-Bus Mixer Review

acousticfingerstyle.com

The Mackie 1604-VLZ3 elevates its predecessor's legacy with a stellar redesign that maintains its user-friendly layout, now paired with improved sound quality. The new XDR2 mic preamps shine with transparency and headroom, while the 3-band active EQ delivers more precise control. Perfect for live gigs, this mixer is both a visual and auditory upgrade, offering studio-quality sound in a club setting. Despite its nostalgic predecessor, the VLZ3 emerges as a robust, reliable choice for both veteran Mackie users and newcomers.

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 8 Ratings

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tape_ghost

101

about 9 years ago

Solid overall mixer, subgroups are great but on 8 Direct Out

Main issue with this mixer is that it doesn't have direct out for every channel. Otherwise, it's very flexible, with the subgroups offering some interesting routing possibilities, 6 sends, 4 stereo returns and chunky EQs that add a solid character to my basses, hi hats, and snares.

frottigheid

105

about 9 years ago

My mixer at live performances

A very trusty mixer, built like a tank and soundwise it not colors too much. I use this mixer for my live performances. I like the many routing options in the Mackie mixers. The sub channels is really handy for groups for example.