Mackie Onyx 400F or Firebox/RNP

[jam esp]

I am at a crossroads and your input would be appreciated.


Four pres seems sufficient at this point. Also, for my purposes, the Firebox pres seem, I guess, tolerable, espesicially if I could get two nicer ones to plug in the back. However, I have a chance to get a used Mackie Onyx for about the same money as the RNP.

Thanks again for your inputs and advicings.

[ibleedburgundy]

Not sure about the other stuff. I'll just say that I like my RNP. Sorry.

[oretez]

In terms of objective 'quality' I don't see significant difference between the pre amp part of Onyx 400f and FMR RNP. Have used both, still have several devices, including 800R, employing Onyx pre's.

So I think it comes down more to 'how' you work and which product seems to cover the most bases. If you didn't need the DI element on the RNP you might look at the Black Lion Audio 'Autuer' . . . two channel mic pre. For most studio environments I think it has a slight edge over either RNP or Onyx, in terms of 'quality'. I've found it to be better then average transparent with respectable detail at the bass end. It is better suited for 'quieter' environments (controlled studio rather then live) and condenser rather then dynamic mics. Used it with a Sennheiser 421 and horns the other day and was satisfied with BLA Autuer but after auditioning same mic with a metal bodied hand drum opted to use an onyx mic pre instead of BLA as part of same session.

don't really have an opinion about the firebox

good luck

[solaris1982]

I'm pretty sure (not totally though) that the 400f is DICE II, which makes my choice automatically the firebox.