The Mackie Onyx8 is a compact, professional multi-track recording and playback solution wrapped up inside a neat and solid metal chassis, fitted with Onyx preamps, and supported by two fat software bundles. Essentially an 8-channel analogue mixer with two mono channels and three stereo channels, the Onyx8 provides XLR and 6.3mm jack combo inputs for both balanced or unbalanced audio signals, while the first two channels are able to take Hi-Z signals and have both been fitted with high-grade Onyx microphone preamps able to push up to 60dBs of clean and clear gain. A complete stereo mix can be recorded directly to an SD card, or a computer can be hooked up for direct 8-channel multi-track recording or 4-channel playback. The Mackie Onyx8: Streamlined Power The tight control panel of this analogue mixer bears a classic Perkins equaliser-design that harks back to the British-built desks of the '60s and '70s and offers the unique perk of the same rich and warm, vintage sound. More current features include an improved filter control and minimal phase switching; a more effective semi-parametric mid-range frequency control, and a bank of built-in effects. An immediately coherent, clear-cut Studio Command section provides effect, preset, recording, and SD card or USB playback management alongside wireless Bluetooth streaming functionality.