Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $775
Standard/Professional
$200
$1001+
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Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Mackie Onyx 1640". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 22, 2026.
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Description
Designed for the modern audio enthusiast, the Mackie Onyx 1640 is not just a mixer; it’s your ticket to studio-grade sound quality and unparalleled versatility. This 16-channel, 4-bus analog mixer stands out with its boutique-class Onyx mic preamps, delivering pure fidelity that rivals the standalone units on the market. Whether you’re capturing the subtle nuances of a vocal performance or the dynamic range of a live band, the Onyx 1640 ensures every detail is preserved with crystal clarity.
The mixer’s Perkins EQ system offers a "neo classic" approach with 4-band control and dual sweepable mids, letting you shape your sound with precision and warmth reminiscent of British EQ. For those looking to bridge the gap between analog warmth and digital efficiency, the optional 96kHz FireWire card transforms the Onyx 1640 into a seamless digital interface, streaming 18 channels of audio with zero latency.
Beyond its sonic capabilities, the Onyx 1640 is designed for flexibility and ease of use. With 6 aux sends, individual pre/post switches, and a built-in talkback section, it’s perfect for both studio and live settings. The mixer’s sturdy construction, balanced direct outs, and optional rotating I/O pod ensure it fits effortlessly into any professional setup, whether on a desktop or rack-mounted.
Key Features:
- 16 boutique-class Onyx mic preamps
- 4-band Perkins EQ with dual sweepable mids
- Optional 96kHz FireWire for 18-channel streaming
- 6 aux sends with pre/post switches
- Built-in talkback section
- Balanced direct outs via DB-25 connection
- Selectable instrument inputs on first two channels
- Optional rotating I/O pod for versatile setup options
Product specs
| Brand | Mackie |
| Model | Onyx 1640 16-Channel Analog Mixer |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2003 - 2009 |
| Categories | Audio Mixers, Consoles and Summing Boxes |
| Electronics | Analog, Solid State |
| Format | Desktop Standalone |
| Number of Analog Inputs | 43 |
| Number of Analog Outputs | 15 |
| 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
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What are the main features of the Mackie Onyx 1640 mixer?
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The Mackie Onyx 1640 features 16 premium Onyx mic preamps, a 4-band Perkins EQ with dual sweepable midrange controls, 6 aux sends, and 4-bus architecture. It also includes a built-in talkback section and balanced direct outs for every channel via DB-25 connections.
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Does the Mackie Onyx 1640 mixer support FireWire connectivity?
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Yes, the Mackie Onyx 1640 mixer supports FireWire connectivity through an optional card, allowing two channels of monitoring from a computer.
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How does the Perkins EQ on the Mackie Onyx 1640 enhance sound quality?
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The Perkins EQ on the Mackie Onyx 1640 provides a warm, musical sound with its 4-band design and dual sweepable midrange controls, allowing precise tonal shaping.
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Can the Mackie Onyx 1640 be used for live performances?
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Yes, the Mackie Onyx 1640 is suitable for live performances with its 16 channels, 4-bus architecture, and versatile aux sends, making it ideal for routing monitor mixes and outboard gear.
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Is the Mackie Onyx 1640 mixer compatible with international power standards?
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Yes, the Mackie Onyx 1640 features a "Planet-Earth" switching power supply, allowing it to operate worldwide without the need for a voltage converter.
Videos
Charlie Miller
Mackie Onyx 1640 Mixer
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Mackie Onyx 1640.
Software and compatibility
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Older Macs are preferred for smoother FireWire integration, often requiring multiple dongles worth around $100 for compatibility.
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Setup and maintenance
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Installing Windows 7 drivers on a Windows 10 system can achieve 128 samples and 5.33ms global latency in Ableton, beneficial for older mainboards with FireWire I/O.
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Features and functionality
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The mixer allows switching between line input and FireWire input via a physical button, facilitating seamless integration with DAWs like Ableton.
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The Mackie Onyx 1640 records only a stereo mix to the SD card, requiring pre-adjustment of levels and EQ before recording, as post-recording edits aren't possible.
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The Onyx 1640 includes 12 mic preamps and provides Hi-Z capability on two channels, a detail that contradicts common misconceptions about having only 4 preamps.
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The mixer features a basic recording function to SD card with automatic sequential numbering, lacking editing and custom naming capabilities.
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The Mackie Onyx 1640i's Subs 1-4 can be used to mix 12 channels into groups for external 4-track recording or DAW integration via channels 5-8.
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Submasters can be utilized for applying a single compressor across multiple vocal mics by routing them through Sub 1 or a stereo compressor via Subs 1 and 2.
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User experience
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Owners report that the mixer performs well for live recording and provides a tactile experience with physical knobs and faders, preferred over digital alternatives like the MR18.
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Users who initially required 10 channels often find they fill the 16 channels quickly, suggesting buying a larger mixer than initially planned.
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Comparisons
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The Tascam Model 16 offers full multitrack recording to SD but has fewer stereo channels compared to the Mackie Onyx 1640.
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The Behringer Xenyx QX2442USB offers more routing features than the Mackie Onyx 1640, according to users who prioritize versatile routing over other functionalities.
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Use cases and applications
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Subs are useful for routing sound to separate locations or external amps, and for sending mixes to mono or stereo headsets in vocal booths.
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Assigning instruments to subs allows separate volume control, ideal for grouping drums, vocals, guitars, and keys, enhancing live mixing flexibility.
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4.5 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 3 Ratings
178
Killer board for the studio or live!
Outstanding bang for the buck if you want a lot of quality preamps. The Onyx preamps are similar to the Focusrite ISA preamps. The EQ is nothing to sneeze at either. 2 d-subs for 16 analogue outputs to infect your A/D converter with all that Onyx flavor. (one of these paired with an UA Apollo 16 would be quite nice in the studio.) + Talk-back and plenty of sends. As always, the Mackie boards are built solid and the sound that the Onyx 1640 adds to the live setting is bounds beyond the standard Mackie boards. It's a clear difference. I'm glad to own it. The rubber feet on the bottom aren't to be trusted though. Scratched my desk. :P
40997
Great review. I have been curious about these Mackie "neve sound on a tight budget" boards for some time but no one ever gives them a comprehenssive review.
178
Good pres. Dan Licht uses them. (Dexter, Hellraiser 4)
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Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Mackie Onyx 1640, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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