Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Price History
Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Mackie Big Knob Passive". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Introducing the Mackie Big Knob Passive, a compact and rugged monitor controller that's perfect for studios of all sizes. This device provides professional level control, allowing you to seamlessly switch between two pairs of monitors, mute, mono, and dim functions, and offers precise volume control with a high-resolution stepped volume attenuator.
Whether it's for a home or project studio, or for integration in a large studio or group of editing suites, the Big Knob Passive is an affordable monitoring control solution that is 'built-like-a-tank' ensuring durability and longevity. The passive +4dB audio path ensures pristine sonic integrity is maintained throughout your signal chain, and the device's passive electronics provide ultra-low noise and maximum signal integrity.
The large volume knob allows for easy level adjustments, and the device's handy buttons for mono, mute, and dim put necessary monitoring functions at your fingertips. The controller's front-panel monitor select buttons ensure you can switch between monitor sets with no delay or 'popping', facilitating seamless A/B evaluation.
Key Features:
- Passive studio monitor controller
- Seamless switching between two pairs of monitors
- High-resolution stepped volume attenuator for precise volume control
- Mute, mono and dim buttons for full monitoring functionality
- Connect two sets of inputs and easily switch between them
- Supports two pairs of studio monitor speakers
- Large volume knob for easy level adjustments
- Passive +4dB audio path for pristine sonic integrity
- Ultra-low noise and maximum signal integrity
- Rugged and compact steel chassis for durability
Owner's manual
Mackie Big Knob Passive User ManualProduct specs
| Input Channels | 2 x stereo sources |
| Output Channels | 2 x stereo monitors |
| Analog Inputs | 4 x 1/4" TRS, 1 x 1/8" (line in) |
| Analog Outputs | 4 x 1/4" TRS |
| Form Factor | Desktop |
| Power Supply | Passive |
| Height | 3.1" |
| Width | 5.4" |
| Depth | 5.6" |
| Weight | 2.2 lbs. |
FAQs
-
What is the primary function of the Mackie Big Knob Passive?
-
The Mackie Big Knob Passive is a studio monitor controller designed to switch between two stereo input sources and two sets of stereo monitors, allowing for seamless control and comparison of audio signals in a studio environment.
-
Does the Mackie Big Knob Passive require an external power source?
-
No, the Mackie Big Knob Passive is a fully passive device, meaning it does not require any external power supply to operate.
-
How does the Mackie Big Knob Passive connect to audio equipment?
-
The Mackie Big Knob Passive connects through 4 x 1/4" TRS inputs and outputs, and it also includes a 1/8" line input for additional connectivity options.
-
Can the Mackie Big Knob Passive be used with both balanced and unbalanced cables?
-
Yes, the Mackie Big Knob Passive can accommodate both balanced and unbalanced cables, providing flexibility in various studio setups.
-
Is the Mackie Big Knob Passive suitable for small home studios?
-
Yes, with its compact desktop form factor and simple functionality, the Mackie Big Knob Passive is ideal for small home studios where space and ease of use are important.
Videos
BenoniStudio
MACKIE BIG KNOB PASSIVE - MONITOR/INTERFACE SWITCHER (REVIEWED) 🔥
Reviews
PROS
-
Convenient A/B switching for monitors and inputs, simplifying studio workflows
-
Heavy-duty metal build ensures durability and prevents accidental movement
-
Passive design avoids additional power consumption and maintains low noise
-
Smooth, weighted volume knob enhances user experience
-
Mono, Mute, and Dim buttons provide practical audio control features
-
Compact size fits easily into various studio setups
-
Offers ultra-low noise and high signal integrity
-
Perfect for home studios needing simple solutions for multi-monitor setups
-
Simple to set up and provides transparent sound control
CONS
-
Some units exhibit volume imbalance between left and right channels
-
Reports of inconsistent performance, with static and noise issues
-
Some buttons and jacks feel flimsy and unreliable
-
EQ curve alteration noted, affecting mix translation
-
Volume tracking issues at lower levels can affect critical listening
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Mackie Big Knob Passive.
Build quality
-
Some owners report the Big Knob's electronics degrade over time, with crackly knobs and input issues after a few years.
Source
Setup and maintenance
Features and functionality
-
The Big Knob Passive lacks a headphone output, which some users find limiting compared to other monitor controllers.
Source -
Users have noted that the Big Knob Passive can attenuate the signal by about 10dB even at maximum volume.
Source -
The Big Knob Passive lacks a "-10/+4" switch, which could impact volume if monitors have this setting.
Source -
Mackie Big Knob Passive isn't fully balanced, which may be a concern for users who have balanced setups elsewhere.
Source
Comparisons
-
The Heritage Baby RAM, though pricier, offers Stepped volume control, which is noted for being more reliable than the Big Knob's rotary knob.
Source -
Some professionals find Mackie Big Knob degrades sound compared to high-end controllers like Dangerous Monitor ST/SR, which use relays for volume control.
Source -
The Schiit SYS is a cheaper alternative for volume control and output switching, but lacks balanced connections which might be a downside for some users.
Source
User experience
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 16 Ratings
206
Monitor control
Best simple piece of gear that doesn't require power. I love the mono and dim buttons.
Artist usage
Add artist
In the video titled "BERNTH Studio Tour 2025! (New Los Angeles Setup)" by Bernth on YouTube, a Mackie Big Knob Passive Studio Monitor Controller is visible on his studio desk at the 0:07 mark, confirming its use in his setup.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Mackie Big Knob Passive, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
Show yoursMore Mackie Studio Monitor Management
Accessories & Related Items
Similar
Most Popular Studio Monitor Management
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
gl4thGear IQ 191
-