Mixer for my TSR-8...

[Rickson Gracie]

Hi guys,
I have upgraded my setup to the TSR-8

I have access to a mid-90s Mackie 1604 VLZ. Its not a -Pro or the latest -VLZ3 its the first version from the 90s. Im getting it for $495 in decent condition.

For under $1000 is this a good way to go? I will be using my own nice mic pres for almost everything but I am afraid that the fact that it is an older model and not the newest versions will stop me from getting the most fidelity in my mixdowns. Or do i neeed not worry because I am bypassing the internal pres?

Any other sub $1000 mixers you recomend? How is the Allen Heath Mixwizard?

thanks.

 

[Beck]

I can think of several older mixers I like a lot, including the original Mackie’s, but if you can get a 1604 VLZ in good condition for 95 bucks I'd say your search is over.

 

[Rickson Gracie]

I can think of several older mixers I like a lot, including the original Mackie’s, but if you can get a 1604 VLZ in good condition for 95 bucks I'd say your search is over.

OOPS, i typed too fast and put $95 but its really $495 with a snake and the rotopod adapter.

I would rather not go vintage. i would like something i can pick up locally as well.

 

[Rickson Gracie]

Question about the older TASCAM mixers...

Is it true that when I connect mixer such as the M-308 to the TSR-8 that I wouldnt have to switch out plugs when I need to bounce, ping pong or mixdown...etc?

Would it almost be like the 388 but two seperate pieces? thanks.

 

[Beck]

Yep, it's all done with switches.

I didn't realize you had added a post here. I didn't mean to ignore you're previous question... I was deliberately making room for others to chime in about newer mixers since the only cost effective mixers I can really recommend in good conscious are "vintage."

But since you're asking about the M-308 (1984 - ?) perhaps I misunderstood what you meant.

The M-300 series are great mixers, as are the M-200 (1985 -1989). I would go with more channels than you have tracks though. The M-312 might be more like it. There is also an M-320. In my studio there’s no such thing as too many channels. I have the M-216 and M-208 and love them. Admittedly I’ve moded them (as I mod and hack about everything), but they are good mixers right out of the box. There are also great Studiomaster consoles from the same era, and the original Mackie CR-1604 (1990) is another fav.

IMO, manufacturers really started cutting corners in the 90’s and after the outsource-to-China approach caught on it was all over. YMMV.

Almost forgot... yes $495.00 is ok for a 1604 VLZ in great condition, but is closer to the high side of what I see them go for. Worth it though if it's mint.