Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (121)
$69.99
Guitar Center
4.5 (12)
$69.99
Amazon
4.4 (1276)
$69.99 New
$63.56 Used (Like New)
Reverb
5.0 (18)
$52.43 New
$35.00 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (10)
$69.99
zZounds
5.0 (4)
$69.99
B&H
4.3 (38)
$69.99
Thomann
4.5 (482)
$66.00

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 Manual

Product 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.

BenoniStudio

BenoniStudio

MACKIE BIG KNOB PASSIVE - MONITOR/INTERFACE SWITCHER (REVIEWED) 🔥

Video thumbnail for MACKIE BIG KNOB PASSIVE - MONITOR/INTERFACE SWITCHER (REVIEWED) 🔥 by BenoniStudio

MACKIE BIG KNOB PASSIVE - MONITOR/INTERFACE SWITCHER (REVIEWED) 🔥

BenoniStudio

BenoniStudio

Video thumbnail for Mackie Big Knob Passive Review by All Things Gear

Mackie Big Knob Passive Review

All Things Gear

All Things Gear

Video thumbnail for Mackie Big Knob Passive Review (No longer recommended - Noisy after 1 year) by Creative Sound Lab

Mackie Big Knob Passive Review (No longer recommended - Noisy after 1 year)

Creative Sound Lab

Creative Sound Lab

Video thumbnail for Mackie BIG KNOB Passive Studio Monitor Controller Review! by TechReflex

Mackie BIG KNOB Passive Studio Monitor Controller Review!

TechReflex

TechReflex

Video thumbnail for STUDIO GEAR: Mackie Big Knob Passive setup and demo by Exile Mixes

STUDIO GEAR: Mackie Big Knob Passive setup and demo

Exile Mixes

Exile Mixes

Video thumbnail for Mackie Big Knob Passive Review - Monitor Controller by Audio Tech TV

Mackie Big Knob Passive Review - Monitor Controller

Audio Tech TV

Audio Tech TV

Video thumbnail for Mackie Big Knob Passive teardown & demo with audio samples by DcSoundOp

Mackie Big Knob Passive teardown & demo with audio samples

DcSoundOp

DcSoundOp

Video thumbnail for MACKIE Big Knob Passive - Review Revisited by Matt Ingram

MACKIE Big Knob Passive - Review Revisited

Matt Ingram

Matt Ingram

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

  • Regular maintenance like using fader cleaner can resolve crackling issues in the Big Knob's volume knob.

    Source
  • Switching from unbalanced TS to balanced TRS cables can slightly improve volume but may not restore full signal strength.

    Source

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

  • Users have experienced pan issues at low volumes with the Big Knob, where one side may cut out until adjusted.

    Source
  • Replacement parts for the Big Knob Passive can be costly in Canada, affecting repair decisions.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Bypassing the resistors responsible for passive summing may help recover some volume lost in stereo mode.

    Source
  • Users have considered replacing the potentiometer with higher quality attenuators for improved performance.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review : Mackie Big Knob Passive — That Guitar Lover

thatguitarlover.com

The Mackie Big Knob Passive is a cautionary tale of dashed expectations. Initially promising with its sleek design and smooth operation, it soon reveals itself to be plagued by crackling noise, rendering it nearly useless at higher volumes. Despite Mackie's polite support, multiple units failed, exposing broader quality control issues with the Big Knob line. The reviewer's past faith in Mackie's robust gear only deepens the disappointment, urging potential buyers to steer clear of this noisy, overpriced contraption. An unfortunate miss from a once-reliable brand.

negative

Mackie: Big Knob Studio & Big Knob Passive | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The Mackie Big Knob Passive is a budget-friendly, no-frills monitor controller praised for its simplicity and transparency in sound, making it a staple for most studios. While it lacks certain features like detent points and trimmers for precise level matching, its solid build and straightforward design provide excellent value for its price. On the other hand, the Big Knob Studio offers more flexibility with its USB interface and various input options but may slightly color the sound due to multiple op-amps in its signal path. Ideal for beginners or budget-conscious setups, the Studio model is versatile yet not mastering-grade. Overall, Mackie delivers strong contenders in their category, especially for those not yet in the high-end market.

positive

Gear Review: Mackie Big Knob Passive |

marcdevasconcelos.com

The Mackie Big Knob Passive shines with its robust build and versatile functionality, making it a must-have for studio setups. Its ability to switch between inputs and speakers effortlessly, along with a useful mono check feature, makes it invaluable for phase issues. While the Dim button might be underutilized, the intuitive design and smooth volume control compensate. With transparency in signal passage and solid construction, it's a top pick for those looking to upgrade their monitor controller. Jump off the fence—this is as good as passive switches get.

positive
Add

5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 16 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
lennyg

GOT IT FOR FREE, BUT I WISH I SPENT MONEY

I LOVE THIS SO MUCH I WANNA KISS MISTER BIG KNOB HIMSELF ON THE CHEEKS

junelopez215

Monitor control

Best simple piece of gear that doesn't require power. I love the mono and dim buttons.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how FINNEAS uses Mackie Big Knob Passive

FINNEAS

Singer, Guitarist

The Favors

...
Verified via YouTube

At 2:27 we see finneas using the mackie big knob passive monitor controller.

See how Bernth uses Mackie Big Knob Passive

Bernth

Singer, Guitarist

Belphegor

...
Verified via YouTube

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.

See how Cookin' Soul uses Mackie Big Knob Passive

Cookin' Soul

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

you can see it at minute 8:49 in this video

See how Mr. Belt & Wezol uses Mackie Big Knob Passive

Mr. Belt & Wezol

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

From the start of this video, this can be seen on his desk

See how WISEBOY uses Mackie Big Knob Passive

WISEBOY

Music Producer

...
Verified via Vidlan

WISEBOY showed a big knob passive during a tik tok video

See how Mike Tompkins uses Mackie Big Knob Passive

Mike Tompkins

Singer, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

Visible at 0:10 in this video.

See how Severman uses Mackie Big Knob Passive

Severman

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

In this picture you can See that severmans hand touches Are Monitor Controller which is the Mackie Big Knob

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.

Akai MPC 500
Akai MPC 500 Keyboards, Synthesizers & MIDI
2
Kali Audio LP-6 Studio Monitors
Kali Audio LP-6 Studio Monitors Active & Passive Monitors
2
Lewitt PURE TUBE Essential Set
Lewitt PURE TUBE Essential Set Condenser Microphones
1
Nektar Impact LX88+
Nektar Impact LX88+ MIDI Keyboard Controllers
1
M-Audio Firewire 410
M-Audio Firewire 410 Audio Interfaces
1
Vintech Audio X73
Vintech Audio X73 Preamps & Channel Strips
1
Focusrite Scarlett 6i6
Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 Audio Interfaces
1
Valhalla Room
Valhalla Room Music Software
1

Community setups

Show yours
vitali_harmash

vitali_harmash

Gear IQ 111

jeffersonweber

jeffersonweber

Gear IQ 820

kostis

kostis

Gear IQ 338

seancroneaudio

seancroneaudio

Gear IQ 91

fairylightfort

fairylightfort

Gear IQ 271

izzyizix

izzyizix

Gear IQ 253

G

ghost_ryder

Gear IQ 52

More Mackie Studio Monitor Management

Accessories & Related Items

Similar

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    gl4th
    gl4th

    Gear IQ 191