Pricing and availability

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Sweetwater
3.0 (30)
$349.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (5)
$349.99
Amazon
4.0 (82)
$349.99 New
$269.99 Used (Like New)
Reverb
4.0 (6)
$261.75 New
$95.32 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (10)
$349.99
zZounds
0.5 (3)
$349.99
Thomann
4.4 (5)
$269.00

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Mackie Big Knob Studio+ 4x3 Studio Monitor Controller". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Perfect for professional studios, the Mackie Big Knob Studio+ 4x3 Studio Monitor Controller offers a smart and modernized monitoring control solution. It delivers high-quality sound, whether you are recording or mixing, with its integrated USB recording and playback functionality.

The Mackie Big Knob Studio+ features professional routing and switching, allowing you to select from four sources, including USB playback. You can also switch between three pairs of monitors, each with independent gain trim to ensure balanced listening levels. With the addition of the Onyx mic preamps, this controller provides a high-quality desktop recording source.

This controller truly serves as a nerve center for any professional studio, boasting dual headphone outs, a dedicated amp-driven studio output, and flexible I/O options. All these features make it a comprehensive monitoring and recording solution that delivers big value for project studios.

Key Features:

  • Studio monitor controller and USB audio interface
  • Dual Onyx preamps for recording high-fidelity, low-noise audio
  • Ability to switch between four input sources and three monitor pairs
  • Independent trim on all sources and monitor outs for balanced listening levels
  • Built-in talkback functionality for easy communication with artists
  • Headphone outputs for artist monitoring
  • Stereo aux input for connecting music player for reference tracks
  • Large volume knob for easy level adjustments
  • Dedicated amp-driven Studio Out for headphone distribution systems
  • High-resolution 192kHz / 24-bit recording and playback
  • Compatible with all major DAWs on both Mac and Windows
  • Includes Tracktion(R) recording software.

Product specs

Input Channels 4 x sources
Output Channels 3 x stereo monitors
Analog Inputs 4 x 1/4" TRS (line), 2 x XLR-1/4" combo (mic), 2 x 1/4" (cue), 1 x 1/8" (aux in), 1 x XLR (external talkback)
Analog Outputs 6 x 1/4" (monitors A/B/C), 2 x 1/4" (2-track), 2 x 1/4" (studio/phones)
Headphones 2 x 1/4"
USB 1 x Type B
Computer Connectivity USB
Talkback Built-in
A/D Resolution 24-bit/192kHz
Software Traktion
Compatibility Mac, Windows
Form Factor Desktop
Power Supply 18V DC power supply (included)
Height 3.2"
Width 11.9"
Depth 6.8"
Weight 4.6 lbs.

FAQs

What are the connectivity options on the Mackie Big Knob Studio+ Monitor Controller?

The Mackie Big Knob Studio+ offers 4 input sources and 3 stereo monitor outputs. It includes 1/4" TRS, XLR-1/4" combo, and 1/8" aux inputs, as well as 1/4" monitor and headphones outputs, providing flexible connectivity for various studio setups.

Is the Mackie Big Knob Studio+ compatible with both Mac and Windows systems?

Yes, the Mackie Big Knob Studio+ is compatible with both Mac and Windows systems, allowing seamless integration with your preferred operating system for recording and monitoring.

Does the Mackie Big Knob Studio+ have built-in talkback functionality?

Yes, the Mackie Big Knob Studio+ features a built-in talkback microphone, enabling easy communication with artists during recording sessions without needing additional equipment.

What is the audio resolution capability of the Mackie Big Knob Studio+?

The Mackie Big Knob Studio+ supports a high-quality audio resolution of 24-bit/192kHz, ensuring precise and clear sound for professional studio monitoring and recording.

Can the Mackie Big Knob Studio+ be used as an audio interface?

Yes, the Mackie Big Knob Studio+ functions as both a monitor controller and a USB audio interface, allowing you to connect directly to your computer for recording and playback.

Hollywood DJ

Hollywood DJ

Big Knob Studio Plus Review - How I Use It, hooking up a studio monitor subwoofer correctly

Video thumbnail for Big Knob Studio Plus Review - How I Use It, hooking up a studio monitor subwoofer correctly by Hollywood DJ

Big Knob Studio Plus Review - How I Use It, hooking up a studio monitor subwoofer correctly

Hollywood DJ

Hollywood DJ

Video thumbnail for Mackie Big Knob Studio+ Review - Making Music by Geekanoids

Mackie Big Knob Studio+ Review - Making Music

Geekanoids

Geekanoids

Reviews

PROS

  • Flexible signal routing for complex setups, easily handling multiple sources and monitors

  • USB audio interface integration, enhancing versatility on Windows and Mac

  • External mic input and foot pedal option for talkback, offering more control

  • Clean, warm DAC providing high-quality sound with substantial low end

  • Sturdy construction and industrial design, ideal for frequent and heavy use

  • Minimal sound coloration, maintaining audio integrity across different setups

  • Convenient front-panel 1/8" analog input for easy AUX connections

  • Large physical controls for quick and precise adjustments

  • Excellent volume range, capable of very loud outputs

  • Cool lighting and solid button feel, enhancing user experience

CONS

  • Some units experience premature failure or issues within two years

  • High USB noise floor when used with certain PC setups

  • Inconsistent headphone output with uneven channel volume at lower levels

  • Knob may get warm during use, causing discomfort for some users

  • Issues with DAW connectivity, though sometimes resolved with updates

  • Limited inputs compared to other studio interfaces in its price range

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Mackie Big Knob Studio+ 4x3 Studio Monitor Controller.

Features and functionality

  • The Behringer Studio XL allows individual control of JBL 305P and 310S speakers, offering a tailored monitoring experience.

    Source
  • The talkback feature on the Behringer Studio XL is highlighted as particularly useful for communication in smaller studio setups.

    Source
  • The Mackie Big Knob Studio+ seems to have routing issues where Source A won't output to Monitor B, limiting flexibility in speaker switching.

    Source
  • One user discovered that the Fostex 6301B monitors used with the Big Knob required troubleshooting, as they have a stereo mini-jack input, potentially requiring a Y lead.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users experienced USB input/output issues with the Studio XL when using mismatched audio quality settings for inputs and outputs on Windows.

    Source
  • Users have experienced difficulties setting up the Big Knob Studio+ with balanced outputs, particularly when trying to route audio from different sources to multiple monitors.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The Studio XL may face stability issues with Hackintosh setups, especially when running Mac OS Sonoma with Logic Pro.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users reported a weak headphone amp on the Studio XL, suitable for low ohm headphones but less effective for open-backed models.

    Source
  • Owners report issues with the Big Knob Studio+ not functioning as expected, specifically when trying to switch audio output between different monitor pairs.

    Source
  • Despite being brand new, some Big Knob Studio+ units may have faults, as experienced by users who couldn't switch outputs correctly, leading to returns or exchanges.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Mackie Big Knob Studio+ review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Mackie Big Knob Studio+ breathes new life into an industry favorite with the addition of Onyx mic pres and USB audio interfacing, making it a more versatile tool for modern studios. It boasts solid construction, backlit buttons, and a familiar layout that enhances usability. However, the metering options could be improved, leaving some users wanting more in terms of output visual feedback. Overall, this monitor controller offers a powerful combo of monitoring, talkback, and interfacing capabilities, perfect for those looking to upgrade their studio setup.

positive

Mackie Big Knob Studio+ Review | Performer Mag

performermag.com

The Mackie Big Knob Studio+ is a powerhouse in a compact design, delivering flexibility and ease of use for any recording setup. With impressive ONYX preamps that capture sound without hiss or distortion, it excels in both recording and monitoring tasks. The built-in talkback mic feature is a game-changer, streamlining communication during sessions. However, there are no noted drawbacks, making this unit a must-have for those focused on efficiency in the studio. Overall, its robust connectivity options and user-friendly interface offer great value, especially for home studios or smaller setups.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Avicii uses Mackie Big Knob Studio+ 4x3 Studio Monitor Controller

Avicii

Music Producer

Jovicii

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Verified via Photo

Avicii is seen using the Mackie Big Knob Studio+ 4x3 Studio Monitor Controller in a photo shared on his Instagram, suggesting it was part of his mobile studio setup.

See how Richie Hawtin uses Mackie Big Knob Studio+ 4x3 Studio Monitor Controller

Richie Hawtin

Music Producer

Sven Väth & Richie Hawtin

...
Verified via YouTube

can be seen at 1:42 in the video

See how Virtual Riot uses Mackie Big Knob Studio+ 4x3 Studio Monitor Controller

Virtual Riot

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram Video, you can see the Mackie Big Knob Studio+

See how Futuristic Polar Bears uses Mackie Big Knob Studio+ 4x3 Studio Monitor Controller

Futuristic Polar Bears

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In this instagram video you can see him use the Mackie Big knob by his right monitor

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Mackie Big Knob Studio+ 4x3 Studio Monitor Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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