Soundcraft M series

[88fingers]

I've been doing some shopping lately for a new mixer. Currently, I own a VLZ 1202 (not a VLZ Pro). I've been wanting to upgrade to a VLZ Pro 1604. However, I've been hearing a lot that says the Soundcraft M series is better for the most part, and that they have more actual inputs. Of course, they're also much more expensive. Just an M12 for Soundcraft is in the neighborhood of $700, while a Mackie VLZ Pro 1604 is $850. That's 4 more channels for $150 more. So my question is, what are you guys' personal opinions on the 2 mixers, and is one of them actually better than the other. Can you even get 16 channels in the M series, and if not, what does Soundcraft offer that's good?

[chris-from-ky]

I don't own one but, I've used the 1604 before. I like Mackie for the most part and if quality is a concern, I heard that Alanis Morrisette's "Jagged Little pill" and Superchick's "One Girl Revolution" were recorded using the mackie 1604. That's what I heard anyway.

The difference would have to be pretty significant before I'd go with the M12 over the 1604. Just my own opinion. Take it or leave it.

[jwag]

I seriously doubt those albums were mixed on that board, but ya never know. I own an M8, and the mic pres seem more "musical" sounding to me that the Mackies, which sounded more sterile. Also, the eq section of the M series boards are a lot more flexible sonically with your input sources than most Mackie counterparts. My 2c's.

-Jake

[Chris Fallen]

I've read a bunch of discussions, and the Soundcraft and Allen/Heaths are always recommended over the Mackies.

Their pres are supposed to be just a bit better, but the EQs are supposed to smash the hell out of Mackies'.

[87PRS]

I use a Soundcraft FX16, look around and you can find one for less than 800, the FX are Lexicon, but limited, the mic pres are very good and the eq's are great, plus you can 4 buss it if you need it, has all direct record outs on each channel, I researched them all and came down to the A&H and this one. Good luck

[chessrock]

Good stuff can be made on either board, but for someone who's less experienced, I'd go with the Soundcraft. It's just a little easier to get good sounds out of it. You have to understand the Mackie's limitations and learn to work around them before you can really maximize it's potential. People like the Soundcraft boards because they're more idiot proof.

[ChristopherDawn]

Originally posted by chessrock
Good stuff can be made on either board, but for someone who's less experienced, I'd go with the Soundcraft. It's just a little easier to get good sounds out of it. You have to understand the Mackie's limitations and learn to work around them before you can really maximize it's potential. People like the Soundcraft boards because they're more idiot proof.

And colorful! Preeeeety!

[chessrock]

What's up with those flimsy faders, though?

[Tonio]

The faders do seem flimsy! But no failure yet on my SX, the channel in and buss buttons seem to stick at times though.

[ChristopherDawn]

Originally posted by 88fingers
Just an M12 for Soundcraft is in the neighborhood of $700,

I just noticed this. WRONG. I got my M12 from Full Compass (Joel Pare represent!) for $599.

[88fingers]

Originally posted by ChristopherDawn
I just noticed this. WRONG. I got my M12 from Full Compass (Joel Pare represent!) for $599.

I was just quoting the price I saw...

What's the web site for where you got yours?

[ChristopherDawn]

Originally posted by 88fingers
I was just quoting the price I saw...

What's the web site for where you got yours?

Call into Full Compass and talk to Joel Pare. I don't have his number on me, however.

[88fingers]

I went to fullcompass.com, but they didn't have the M12 (or any of the M series) listed.

[ChristopherDawn]

Originally posted by 88fingers
I went to fullcompass.com, but they didn't have the M12 (or any of the M series) listed.

You have to call in. They have them, believe me.