Mackie Music Mixer ONYX 4Bus User Manual

PREMIUM LIVE ANALOG MIXERS  
w/PERKINS EQ & ONYX MIC PREAMPS  
O W N E R ’ S M A N U A L  
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Table of Contents  
information about this and other Mackie products.  
Part No. SW0600 Rev. D 05/09  
©2006-2009 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved.  
Owner’s Manual  
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Introduction  
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL  
We know that many of you can’t wait to get your new  
mixing console hooked up, and you’re probably not going  
to read the manual first (sigh!). So the next section is a  
Quick-Start Guide to help you get the mixer set up fast  
so you can start using it right away. Right after that are  
the ever popular hook-up diagrams that show typical  
mixer setups for live sound, recording and mixdown.  
Thank you for choosing a Mackie Onyx 4•Bus profes-  
sional live mixing console. The Onyx 4•Bus mixers fea-  
ture all-new analog circuitry and the latest technologies  
for live sound reinforcement in a durable, road-worthy  
package.  
The Onyx 4•Bus mixing consoles replace the legend-  
ary SR24•4 and SR32•4 VLZ PRO mixers. The new Onyx  
versions of these mixers maintain the same physical  
size, channel count and features of the originals, while  
adding a variety of new and improved features.  
Then, when you have time, read the Features Descrip-  
tion section. This describes every knob, button, and  
connection point on the Onyx 4•Bus, roughly following  
the signal flow through the mixer.  
The Onyx 4•Bus consoles are equipped with our new  
premium precision-engineered, studio-grade Onyx mic  
preamps. Mackie is renowned for the high-quality mic  
preamps used in our mixers, and the Onyx mic pre’s are  
better than ever, with specifications rivaling expensive  
stand-alone boutique mic preamplifiers.  
Throughout this section you’ll find illustrations with  
each feature numbered. If you want to know more about  
a feature, simply locate it on the appropriate illustra-  
tion, notice the number attached to it, and find that  
number in the nearby paragraphs.  
This icon marks information that is  
critically important or unique to the  
Onyx 4•Bus. For your own good, read  
them and remember them. They will  
be on the final test.  
Each mono channel strip features an individual phan-  
tom power switch, low-cut filter, mic input pad, pre-EQ  
channel insert, and an all new four-band EQ design with  
sweepable mids and EQ bypass switch.  
All mono channels have six Aux sends, Pan, Mute, PFL  
Solo, 100 mm Fader, Group and Main Mix assign, and  
four signal-level indicators. In addition, balanced direct  
outputs are provided on DB-25 connectors (eight chan-  
nels per connector) for multitrack recording.  
This icon leads you to in-depth  
explanations of features and practi-  
cal tips. While not mandatory, they  
usually have some valuable nugget of  
information.  
The master section features two Stereo Returns, six  
Master Aux sends, four Group Masters, a 6x2 Matrix, a  
Phones/Monitor section, and a Talkback section with  
routing switches that allow you to communicate through  
the Aux Sends and the L/R mix.  
A PLUG FOR THE CONNECTOR SECTION  
Appendix B is a section on connectors: XLR connec-  
tors, balanced connectors, unbalanced connectors, and  
special hybrid connectors.  
A new feature with the Onyx 4•Bus mixers is an analog  
stereo compressor/limiter that can be inserted at the out-  
put of the L/R main mix, or the Group 1/2 or 3/4 outputs.  
More resources on our website at www.mackie.com.  
Click on Support to find answers to many of your ques-  
tions. The FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) section is  
filled with answers to many of the questions our Techni-  
cal Support staff has fielded over the years.  
Please write your serial number here for future  
reference (i.e., insurance claims, tech support,  
return authorization, etc.)  
Check out the glossary for explanations of many of the  
pro-audio terms used in our manuals.  
Purchased at:  
Date of purchase:  
4
ONYX 4•Bus  
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output. Be sure that the volume of the input source  
is the same as it would be during normal use. If it  
isn’t, you might have to readjust these levels during  
the middle of the set.  
Getting Started  
READ THIS PAGE!!  
3. Adjust the channel’s GAIN [4] control so that the  
LEDs on the Left MAIN MIX meter stay around “0”  
and never go higher than “+10.”  
Even if you’re one of those people  
who never read manuals, all we ask  
is that you read this page now before  
you begin using the Onyx 4•Bus.  
You’ll be glad you did!  
4. If you’d like to apply some EQ, do so now and return  
to step 3. Remember to push in the EQ IN/OUT  
[11] switch or the EQ controls won’t do anything.  
5. Disengage that channel’s PFL solo switch.  
6. Repeat for each channel.  
Zero the Controls  
1. Turn down the channel GAIN, AUX, and Fader con-  
trols, and center the channel EQ and PAN controls.  
Instant Mixing  
2. Set all push button switches to their “out” positions.  
1. Leave the microphone plugged into channel 1 and  
connect a keyboard, guitar or other instrument to  
channel 2. Be sure to “Set the Levels” for channel 2  
as described above.  
3. In the Master section, turn all the rotary knobs  
“down,” the switches “out,” and the faders down.  
4. Turn the POWER switch off.  
2. To get sound out of the speakers, push in the MAIN  
MIX assign switch [17] next to the faders on chan-  
nels 1 and 2, turn up channel 1 and 2 faders [15] to  
the “U” mark and slowly turn up the MAIN MIX [72]  
fader to a comfortable listening level.  
Connections  
If you already know how you want to connect the Onyx  
4•Bus mixing console, go ahead and connect the inputs  
and outputs the way you want them. If you just want to  
get sound through the mixer, follow these steps:  
3. Sing and play. You’re a star! Adjust the faders for  
channels 1 and 2 to bring your voice and your  
instrument up and down to create your own mix.  
1. Plug a microphone or other signal source into chan-  
nel 1’s MIC or LINE input [73/74].  
Other Nuggets of Wisdom  
2. Plug in the detachable linecord, connect it to an AC  
outlet, and turn on the Onyx 4•Bus’ POWER switch  
[90].  
For optimum sonic performance, the channel and  
MAIN MIX faders should be set near the “U” (unity  
gain) markings.  
3. Connect cables from the Onyx 4•Bus’ MAIN OUTS  
[82] (XLR connectors or 1/4" TRS connectors on  
the rear panel) to your amplifier or active speakers.  
Always turn the MAIN MIX faders, GROUP faders,  
and MONITOR knob down before making connec-  
tions to and from your Onyx 4•Bus.  
4. Hook up speakers to the amp and turn it on. If the  
amplifier has level controls, set them however the  
manufacturer recommends (usually all the way up).  
When you shut down your equipment, turn off the  
amplifiers first. When powering up, turn on the  
amplifiers last.  
Never listen to loud music for prolonged periods.  
Please see the Safety Instructions on page 2 for  
information on hearing protection.  
Set the Levels  
To set the channel GAIN controls, it’s not even neces-  
sary to hear what you’re doing at the outputs of the  
mixer. If you want to listen while you work, plug head-  
phones into the PHONES jack [46] on the front panel,  
then set the PHONES knob [47] about one-quarter of  
the way up and the SOLO LEVEL [49] about halfway up.  
Save the shipping box! You may need it someday,  
and you don’t want to have to pay for another one.  
That’s it for the “Getting Started” section. Next comes  
the “Hookup” section that shows you some typical ways  
that you might use the Onyx 4•Bus in real applications.  
After that, take the grand tour of the mixer, with de-  
scriptions of every knob, button, input, and output. We  
encourage you to take the time to read all of the feature  
descriptions, but at least you know it’s there if you have  
any questions.  
The following steps must be performed one channel at  
a time.  
1. Push in the channel’s PFL [18] solo switch.  
2. Play something into the selected input. This could  
be an instrument, a singing or speaking voice, or  
a line input such as a CD player or tape recorder  
5
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This hookup diagram demonstrates how you can  
make a live multitrack recording using the DIRECT  
OUTs. The DIRECT OUTs provide an analog balanced  
direct output for each channel, pre-EQ. The Matrix  
outputs are used to create a stereo recording for  
backup.  
Hookup Diagrams  
Aux Send 4 is used for stage monitors, and a graphic  
EQ is connected to the Aux 4 Insert jack, serving as  
a dedicated in-line EQ for the monitors. Aux Sends  
5 and 6 are used to drive a stereo IEM system. Aux  
Send 3 drives a stereo effects processor, whose stereo  
signal is returned via the Stereo Returns jacks.  
Bass Guitar  
Mono Compressor  
In  
Out  
1
1
2
3
4
11  
12  
13  
14  
2
3
4
Electric Guitar  
In  
Out  
In  
5
5
6
15  
16  
Stereo Compressor  
6
7
8
Out  
7
8
9
17  
18  
19  
Electric Guitar  
Line Out  
Line Out  
DI Box  
DI Box  
9
9
10  
11  
12  
Bass Amp  
10  
10 20  
Stage Monitors  
14  
Mono Power  
Amplifier  
Mono EQ  
In  
1
2
4
5
Out  
13  
Vocal Mics  
Guitar Amp  
14  
15  
16  
DI Box  
3
1
2
3
6
4
5
6
Keyboard or Synth  
Stereo Guitar Effects  
15  
16  
17  
18  
DI Box  
17  
Stereo In-Ear Monitor  
System (IEM)  
Multi Effect  
Processor  
18  
19  
20  
2
3
4
19  
20  
1
2
3
4
21 22  
23 24  
In  
Stereo EQ  
L
Out  
In  
R
Out  
L
1
R
L
2
R
L
R
L
L
R
R
MP3 Player  
Stereo Crossover  
L
R
Stereo Power  
Amplifier  
Stereo Power  
Amplifier  
Headphones  
Stereo Recorder  
A
B
In (record)  
PA Speaker  
Subwoofers  
SELECT  
SELECT  
SELECT  
SELECT  
Digital Multitrack  
Hard Disk Recorder  
Onyx 24•4 Live Club Mix and Multitrack Recording  
6
ONYX 4•Bus  
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Bass Guitar  
Mono Compressor  
In  
Out  
1
1
2
3
4
11  
12  
13  
14  
2
3
4
Electric Guitar  
In  
Out  
In  
5
5
6
15  
16  
Stereo Compressor  
6
7
8
Out  
7
8
9
17  
18  
19  
Electric Guitar  
Line Out  
Line Out  
DI Box  
DI Box  
Mono Power  
Amplifier  
Stage Monitor  
Stage Monitor  
9
9
10  
11  
12  
Bass Amp  
10  
10 20  
Mono Power  
Amplifier  
1
Mono EQ  
In  
Out  
1
2
4
5
13  
Vocal Mics  
Guitar Amp  
DI Box  
14  
15  
16  
DI Box  
3
1
2
3
6
4
5
6
Keyboard or Synth  
Stereo Guitar Effects  
15  
16  
17  
18  
17  
Stereo In-Ear Monitor  
System (IEM)  
18  
19  
20  
1
2
3
4
19  
Mono Power  
Stage Monitor  
Amplifier  
1
2
3
4
21 22  
23 24  
Mono Power  
Amplifier  
Stage Monitor  
L
R
L
1
R
L
2
R
L
R
L
L
R
R
Talkback Mic  
Listen Wedge  
Mono Power  
Amplifier  
L
R
A
B
This drawing shows the flexibility of the Onyx 4•Bus for creating different monitor  
mixes. Auxes 1-4 provide separate monitor mixes for four floor wedges. Auxes 5-6  
provide a stereo monitor mix for an in-ear monitor (IEM). The Aux Inserts can be  
used for in-line graphic EQ for each monitor send. A listen wedge is connected to  
the Monitor Out, allowing you to solo and listen to each monitor mix. The Talkback  
Mic lets you talk to the talent through the monitors (Aux Sends).  
Onyx 24•4 Stage Monitor Mix  
7
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Bass Guitar  
Mono Compressor  
In  
Out  
1
1
2
3
4
11  
12  
13  
14  
2
3
4
Electric Guitar  
In  
Out  
In  
5
5
6
15  
16  
Stereo Compressor  
6
7
8
Out  
7
8
7
8
9
17  
18  
19  
Electric Guitar  
Line Out  
Line Out  
DI Box  
DI Box  
9
10  
11  
12  
10 20  
Bass Amp  
Headphones  
for Studio  
1
2
4
5
13  
In  
Stereo EQ  
Vocal Mics  
Out  
In  
Guitar Amp  
DI Box  
14  
15  
16  
DI Box  
3
1
2
3
6
4
5
6
Keyboard or Synth  
Out  
Stereo Guitar Effects  
15  
16  
17  
18  
Headphone Distribution  
Amp  
17  
18  
19  
20  
2
3
4
19  
1
2
3
4
21 22  
23 24  
L
R
L
1
R
L
2
R
L
Powered  
R
Studio Monitors  
for Studio  
L
L
R
R
L
R
A
B
In this hookup diagram, the Direct Outs for channels 9-24  
are connected to the analog audio interface for your DAW or  
laptop for tracking. The drum microphones are subgrouped  
to Groups 1-4 and routed to the analog audio interface for  
recording.  
Audio I/O for Workstation  
To Desktop  
or  
A 2-track return is provided by the DAW (or laptop) to the  
Stereo Returns on the Onyx 24•4 for playback of the master  
mix.  
Laptop Computer  
Auxes 5-6 provide a stereo monitor mix for a headphone  
distribution amplifier (Aux 5-6 Inserts are connected  
to a stereo graphic EQ to provide equalization for the  
headphone mixes).  
Onyx 24•4 Computer Recording  
8
ONYX 4•Bus  
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Bass Guitar  
Mono Compressor  
In  
Out  
1
1
2
3
4
11  
12  
13  
14  
2
3
4
Electric Guitar  
In  
Out  
In  
5
5
6
15  
16  
Stereo Compressor  
6
7
8
Out  
7
8
9
17  
18  
19  
Electric Guitar  
Line Out  
Line Out  
DI Box  
DI Box  
9
9
10  
11  
12  
Bass Amp  
10  
10 20  
Stage Monitors  
Mono Power  
Amplifier  
Mono EQ  
In  
1
2
4
5
Out  
13  
Vocal Mics  
Guitar Amp  
DI Box  
14  
15  
16  
DI Box  
3
1
2
3
6
4
5
6
Keyboard or Synth  
Stereo Guitar Effects  
15  
16  
17  
18  
Stereo In-Ear Monitor  
System (IEM)  
17  
18  
19  
20  
2
3
4
19  
1
2
3
4
21 22  
23 24  
In  
Assistive Listening  
System  
Stereo EQ  
L
Out  
In  
R
Out  
L
1
R
L
2
R
L
R
L
L
R
Stereo Recorder  
R
Mono EQ  
L
R
Headphones  
A
B
Power Amp  
Mono Mode  
Power Amp  
Mono Mode  
Power Amp  
Mono Mode  
Power Amp  
Mono Mode  
Mono EQ  
Mono EQ  
Power Amp  
Mono Mode  
Power Amp  
Mono Mode  
Right PA Speaker  
Front Fill PA Speaker  
Left PA Speaker  
Subwoofer  
SELECT  
SELECT  
SELECT  
SELECT  
Balcony Seating Speaker  
Nursery Zone Speaker  
Digital Multitrack  
Hard Disk Recorder  
In a House of Worship application, the Onyx 4•Bus provides plenty of Aux Sends  
for stage monitors, stereo in-ear monitoring, and assistive listening systems. The  
MONO output is used to provide front-fill for the first few rows not covered by the  
main PA speakers. A stereo graphic EQ is connected to the Main Inserts (the built-  
in compressor/limiter provides system limiting for the Main Mix). Aux 6 is used  
as a subwoofer feed (a low-pass filter is built in to either the power amplifier or  
subwoofer). The Matrix A and B outputs provide additional custom mixes for the  
balcony and the nursery.  
Onyx 24•4 House of Worship  
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Onyx 4•Bus Features  
Mono Channel Strips  
ꢁ. 48V Phantom Power Switch  
The Onyx 24•4 has 20 mono channel strips and two  
stereo channels, and the Onyx 32•4 has 28 mono channel  
strips and two stereo channels. Each mono channel has a  
mic and line input connector and an insert jack for con-  
necting an external signal processor.  
Most professional condenser mi-  
crophones require phantom power,  
which is a low-current DC voltage  
delivered to the microphone on  
pins 2 and 3 of the XLR microphone  
connector. Push in the 48V switch  
if your microphone needs phantom  
power. An LED lights just above the  
switch to indicate that phantom  
power is active on that channel.  
1
PAD  
48V  
30  
U
20  
U
40  
60  
1. PAD Switch  
-20dB +40dB  
GAIN  
In most cases, you will leave the PAD switch out. How-  
ever, you may have a microphone that produces a higher  
output signal than usual, which may require you to turn  
the GAIN control way down. If that is the case, push in  
the PAD switch to insert a 20 dB pad at the input to the  
mic preamp, to prevent overloading the microphone pre-  
amp and provide better gain control.  
U
EQ  
Dynamic microphones, like  
Shure’s SM57 and SM58, do not  
require phantom power. However,  
phantom power will not harm most  
dynamic microphones should you  
accidentally plug one in while the  
phantom power is turned on. Be  
careful with older ribbon micro-  
phones. Check the manual for your  
microphone to find out for sure  
whether or not phantom power can  
damage it.  
HIGH  
12kHz  
-
15 +15  
2k  
FREQ  
400  
8k  
U
HIGH  
MID  
ꢀ. Low-Cut Switch  
-
15 +15  
400  
The Low-Cut switch, often referred to as a high-pass  
filter, cuts bass frequencies below 100 Hz at a rate of 18 dB  
per octave.  
FREQ  
100  
2k  
U
LOW  
MID  
We recommend that you use the Low-Cut switch on  
every microphone application except kick drum, bass  
guitar, bassy synth patches, or recordings of earth-  
quakes. These aside, there isn’t much down there that  
you want to hear, and filtering it out makes the low stuff  
you do want much more crisp and tasty. Not only that,  
but the Low-Cut switch can help reduce the possibility  
of feedback in live situations and it helps to conserve  
amplifier power.  
-
15 +15  
Note: Be sure the MAIN MIX fader  
[72] is turned down when connect-  
ing microphones to the MIC Inputs,  
especially when phantom power is  
turned on, to prevent pops from get-  
ting through to the speakers.  
U
LOW  
80Hz  
-
15 +15  
OUT  
IN  
EQ  
AUX  
1
2
3
4
5
6
4. GAIN Control  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
Another way to use the Low-Cut switch  
is in combination with the LOW EQ on  
vocals during live performances. Many  
If you haven’t already, please read  
“Set the Levels” on page 5.  
times, bass shelving EQ can really ben-  
efit voices. Trouble is, adding LOW EQ  
also boosts stage rumble, mic handling  
The GAIN control adjusts the input  
sensitivity of the mic and line inputs.  
This allows the signal from the out-  
side world to be adjusted to optimal  
internal operating levels.  
clunks, and breath pops. Low Cut removes all those prob-  
lems so you can add LOW EQ without losing a woofer.  
Here’s what the combination of LOW EQ and Low Cut  
looks like in terms of frequency curves.  
If the signal is plugged into the  
XLR jack, there is 0 dB of gain  
(unity gain) with the knob turned  
all the way down, ramping up to 60  
dB of gain fully up (–20 dB to +40  
dB with the PAD switch pushed in).  
+15  
+10  
+5  
0
–5  
When connected to the 1/4" jack, there is 20 dB of  
attenuation all the way down, and 40 dB of gain fully up,  
with a “U” (unity gain) mark at about 10:00.  
–10  
–15  
20Hz  
100Hz  
1kHz  
10kHz 20kHz  
Low Cut with Low EQ Boosted  
10  
ONYX 4•Bus  
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5. HIGH EQ  
ꢂ. LOW MID FREQ  
+15  
ꢄꢂꢃ  
This control gives you  
up to 15 dB boost or cut at  
12 kHz, and is flat at the  
center detent. Use it to  
add sizzle to cymbals, and  
an overall sense of trans-  
parency or edge to the  
keyboards, vocals, guitar,  
and bacon frying. Turn it  
This knob ranges from  
100 Hz to 2 kHz and  
determines the center  
frequency for the LOW  
MID EQ filter. This allows  
you to zero in on the  
precise narrow band of  
frequencies you want to  
have affected by the LOW  
MID EQ.  
ꢄꢂꢁ  
+10  
ꢄꢃ  
+5  
0
nꢃ  
–5  
nꢂꢁ  
nꢂꢃ  
–10  
–15  
ꢀꢁ(Z  
ꢂꢁꢁ(Z  
ꢂK(Z  
ꢂꢁK(Z ꢀꢁK(Z  
20Hz  
100Hz  
1kHz  
10kHz 20kHz  
Low Mid EQ Freq Sweep  
High EQ  
down a little to reduce sibilance, or to hide tape hiss.  
6. HIGH MID EQ  
10. LOW EQ  
+15  
+15  
Short for “midrange,”  
this knob provides 15 dB  
of boost or cut centered  
at the frequency deter-  
mined by its FREQ knob  
(see HIGH MID FREQ  
next). Midrange EQ is  
often thought of as the  
most dynamic because  
This control gives you  
up to 15 dB of boost or cut  
at 80 Hz. The circuit is flat  
(no boost or cut) at the  
center detent position.  
This frequency represents  
the punch in bass drums,  
bass guitar, fat synth  
+10  
+10  
+5  
+5  
0
0
–5  
–5  
–10  
–10  
–15  
–15  
20Hz  
100Hz  
1kHz  
10kHz 20kHz  
20Hz  
100Hz  
1kHz  
10kHz 20kHz  
High Mid EQ  
Low EQ  
patches, and some really  
serious male singers.  
the frequencies that define any particular sound are  
almost always found in this range. The HIGH MID EQ  
range (400 Hz to 8 kHz) includes the female vocal range  
as well as the fundamentals and harmonics for many  
instruments.  
Note: Used in conjunction with the Low Cut switch,  
you can boost the LOW EQ without injecting tons of  
infrasonic debris into the mix.  
11. EQ IN/OUT Switch  
7. HIGH MID FREQ  
This is a true hardware bypass of the Perkins EQ cir-  
cuitry to insure that there is no coloration of the signal  
if the EQ is not needed. When this button is out, the EQ  
controls have no effect on the signal. You can use this  
switch to make an A/B comparison between the EQ’d  
signal and the signal without EQ.  
ꢄꢂꢃ  
This knob ranges from  
400 Hz to 8 kHz and  
determines the center  
frequency for the HIGH  
MID EQ filter. This allows  
you to zero in on the  
precise narrow band of  
frequencies you want  
to have affected by the  
HIGH MID EQ.  
ꢄꢂꢁ  
ꢄꢃ  
nꢃ  
nꢂꢁ  
nꢂꢃ  
We have completely redesigned the  
EQ circuits in the Onyx Series of  
mixers, based on the designs of Cal  
ꢀꢁ(Z  
ꢂꢁꢁ(Z  
ꢂK(Z  
ꢂꢁK(Z ꢀꢁK(Z  
High Mid EQ Freq Sweep  
Perkins, an industry-leader in audio  
engineering for over three decades  
and long-time Mackie collaborator.  
8. LOW MID EQ  
This “neo-classic” design provides the sweet musicality  
of the British EQ sound, while still maintaining 15 dB of  
boost and cut with optimum Q and minimum phase shift  
(in other words, it gives you plenty of control and is  
pleasing to the ear!).  
+15  
This is a second mid-  
range EQ control that  
provides 15 dB of boost  
or cut centered at the  
frequency determined by  
its FREQ knob. It extends  
down to 100 Hz, which  
includes the male vocal  
range and the fundamen-  
+10  
+5  
0
–5  
The 4-band equalization has LOW shelving at 80 Hz,  
LOW MID peaking, sweepable from 100 Hz to 2 kHz on  
the mono channels, HIGH MID peaking, sweepable from  
400 Hz to 8 kHz on the mono channels, and HIGH shelv-  
ing at 12 kHz. “Shelving” means that the circuitry boosts  
or cuts all frequencies past the specified frequency. For  
example, rotating the LOW EQ knob 15 dB to the right  
boosts bass frequencies below 80 Hz and continuing on  
–10  
–15  
20Hz  
100Hz  
1kHz  
10kHz 20kHz  
Low Mid EQ  
tals of some lower instruments (guitar, lower brass).  
11  
Owner’s Manual  
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down to the lowest note you ever heard. “Peaking” means  
that the frequencies around the center frequency are  
less affected by the EQ the further away they are.  
AUX  
15. Channel Fader  
The fader controls the channel’s  
level…from off to unity gain at the  
“U” marking, on up to 10 dB of ad-  
ditional gain.  
1
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
1ꢀ. AUX Sends  
2
3
4
5
These tap a portion of each channel’s signal (pre or  
post-fader) out to either an effects processor (post-fader)  
or for stage monitoring (pre-fader). The AUX Send lev-  
els are controlled by the channel’s AUX 1-6 knobs, and  
by the AUX SEND MASTERS knobs [55].  
“U” Like Unity Gain  
Mackie mixers  
have a “U” symbol  
on many of the  
level controls.  
This “U” stands  
These are more than just effects and monitor sends.  
They can be used to create stereo in-ear monitor mixes,  
generate separate mixes for recording, for another zone,  
or “mix-minuses” for broadcast.  
for “unity gain,”  
meaning no change in signal level.  
Once you have adjusted the input  
signal to line-level, you can set the  
controls at “U” and your signals will  
travel through the mixer at opti-  
mal levels. What’s more, many of  
the labels on our level controls are  
measured in decibels (dB), so you’ll  
know what you’re doing level-wise  
if you choose to change a control’s  
settings.  
6
1ꢁ. PAN  
PAN  
PAN adjusts the amount of channel signal sent to the left  
versus the right outputs  
.
L
R
With the PAN knob hard left, the signal feeds the  
MAIN LEFT (and GROUP 1 and 3, depending on the  
setting of the GROUP ASSIGN switches). With the knob  
hard right, the signal feeds the MAIN RIGHT (and  
GROUP 2 and 4).  
MUTE  
1
dB  
10  
16. Signal Level LEDs  
Constant Loudness  
5
These LEDs indicate the channel’s  
signal level after the GAIN and  
EQ controls, but just prior to the  
channel’s fader. So even if the fader  
is turned down, you can see if a  
signal is present.  
The Onyx 4•Bus PAN control em-  
ploys a design called “Constant Loud-  
ness.” If you have a channel panned  
hard left (or right) and then pan to  
the center, the signal is attenuated  
OL  
+
10  
U
0
-
20  
5
3 dB to maintain the same apparent  
10  
ASSIGN  
loudness. Otherwise, it would make the sound appear  
much louder when panned center.  
If you’ve followed the “Set the Lev-  
els” procedure, the –20 and 0 LEDs  
should light frequently, the +10  
LED should light occasionally, and  
the OL (Overload) LED should not  
light at all. If the OL LED is blink-  
ing frequently, the signal is probably  
distorted from overdriving the input.  
Either turn down the GAIN control  
or turn down the signal at its source.  
-
1 2  
20  
30  
14. MUTE  
-
3 4  
40  
50  
60  
Press this switch to mute the individual channel. This  
disconnects the channel’s signal from all the Groups,  
the Main Mix, and Aux Send buses (pre* and post-  
fader). You can still solo the channel (PFL) when the  
MUTE switch is pushed in.  
MAIN  
MIX  
O
* If the pre-fader Aux Send’s internal jumper is wired for pre-Mute  
[56], the MUTE switch will not affect the PRE Aux Send.  
PFL  
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ONYX 4•Bus  
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VERY IMPORTANT: Remember, PFL  
mode taps the channel signal before  
17. GROUP and MAIN MIX ASSIGN Switches  
the fader. If you have a channel’s fad-  
er set way below “U” (unity gain), PFL  
solo won’t know that and will send a  
Alongside each channel fader are three buttons  
referred to as channel assignment switches. Used in  
conjunction with the channel’s PAN knob, they are used  
to determine the destination of the channel’s signal.  
unity gain signal to the MONITOR OUT and PHONES  
output. That may result in a startling level boost at  
these outputs when switching to PFL solo mode.  
With the PAN knob [13] at the center detent, the left  
and right sides receive equal signal levels (GROUPS 1-2,  
3-4, and MAIN MIX L-R). To feed only one side or the  
other, turn the PAN knob accordingly.  
Stereo Channel Strips  
If you’re doing a mixdown to a 2-track, for example,  
simply engage the MAIN MIX switch on each channel  
that you want to hear, and they’ll be sent to the MAIN  
MIX bus. If you want to create a subgroup of certain  
channels, engage either the 1-2 or 3-4 switches instead  
of the MAIN MIX, and they’ll be sent to the appropriate  
Group faders. From there, the groups can be sent back  
to the MAIN MIX (using the MAIN MIX assign switches  
[70] next to the Group faders), allowing you to use the  
Group faders as a master control for those channels.  
The Onyx 4•Bus mixers each have  
two stereo channels. The stereo  
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channels have a pair of 1/4  
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line input connectors.  
The stereo channels can be used  
as mono or stereo line-input chan-  
nel strips, or to return the signal  
from an external effects processor  
connected to an Aux Send (if you  
want to apply EQ or more flex-  
ible auxiliary routing to the signal  
than is available with the Stereo  
Returns). These versatile channel  
strips are nearly as full-featured as  
the mono channel strips.  
1
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If you’re creating new tracks or bouncing existing ones,  
you’ll also use the GROUP ASSIGN switches, but not the  
MAIN MIX switch. Here, you don’t want the subgroups  
sent back into the MAIN MIX bus, but sent out, via the  
GROUP OUTS jacks [85], to your multitrack inputs. How-  
ever, if you’re printing tracks via the DIRECT OUTS [76],  
the channel assignment switches don’t matter because  
the DIRECT OUTS come before the ASSIGN switches.  
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1ꢂ. GAIN Control  
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If you haven’t already, please  
read “Set the Levels” on page 5.  
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18. PFL SOLO Switch  
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The GAIN control adjusts the  
input sensitivity of the stereo line  
inputs. This allows the signal from  
the outside world to be adjusted to  
optimal internal operating levels.  
This handy switch allows you to hear signals through  
your headphones or monitor outputs without having to  
route them to the MAIN or GROUP mixes. Folks use solo  
in live work to preview channels before they are let into  
the mix, or just to check out what a particular channel  
is up to anytime during a session. You can solo as many  
channels at a time as you like. It won’t affect what is  
coming out the MAIN OUT or GROUP OUT jacks.  
1
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There is 20 dB of attenuation with  
the knob turned all the way down,  
ramping up to 20 dB of gain fully up, with a “U” (unity  
gain) mark at 12:00.  
ꢂ18  
The Onyx 4•Bus has two solo modes. PFL (Pre-Fader  
Listen) is the default solo mode, and the mode used for  
inputs, including soloing individual channels and the  
Stereo Returns. AFL (After-Fader Listen) is activated  
whenever an AFL switch is pressed on an output, includ-  
ing an Aux Send, Matrix, or Group.  
ꢀ0. HIGH EQ  
This control gives you up to 15 dB boost or cut above  
12 kHz, and it is also flat at the center detent. Use it to  
add sizzle to cymbals, and an overall sense of transpar-  
ency or edge to the keyboards, vocals, guitar, and bacon  
frying. Turn it down a little to reduce sibilance, or to  
hide tape hiss.  
PFL solo mode always overrides any AFL solo mode.  
The Rude Solo LEDS [43] below the SOLO meters indi-  
cate which solo mode is active.  
Soloed channels are sent to the PHONES output and  
MONITOR outputs, and also to the MAIN MIX meters.  
PFL mode (Pre-Fader Listen) sends the channel’s signal  
after the GAIN and EQ controls, but before the channel  
fader, to the PFL solo bus (and appears on the LEFT  
meter). AFL mode (After-Fader Listen), sends the  
signal post-fader (and appears on the LEFT and RIGHT  
meters), making it ideal for mixdown soloing.  
ꢀ1. HIGH MID EQ  
Short for “midrange,” this knob provides 15 dB of  
boost or cut at 2.5 kHz. Midrange EQ is often thought of  
as the most dynamic because the frequencies that de-  
fine any particular sound are almost always found in this  
Owner’s Manual  
1ꢁ  
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range. The HIGH MID EQ frequen-  
cies include the female vocal range  
as well as the fundamentals and  
harmonics for many instruments.  
1
ꢀ7. MUTE  
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Press this switch to mute the channel. This discon-  
nects the channel’s signal from all the Groups, the Main  
Mix, and Aux Send buses (pre* and post-fader). You  
can still solo the channel in PFL mode when the MUTE  
switch is pushed in.  
1
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ꢀꢀ. LOW MID EQ  
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This is a second midrange EQ  
control that provides 15 dB of boost  
or cut centered at 400 Hz. This  
includes the male vocal range and  
the fundamentals of some lower  
instruments (guitar, lower brass).  
ꢀ+  
* If the pre-fader Aux Send’s internal jumper is wired for pre-Mute  
[56], the MUTE switch will not affect the PRE Aux Send.  
ꢂ18  
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ꢀ8. Stereo Fader  
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The fader controls the stereo channel’s level, from  
off to unity gain at the “U” marking, on up to 10 dB of  
additional gain.  
ꢀꢁ. LOW EQ  
This control gives you up to 15  
dB of boost or cut below 80 Hz. The  
circuit is flat (no boost or cut) at  
the center detent position. This  
frequency represents the punch in  
bass drums, bass guitar, fat synth  
patches, and some really serious  
male singers.  
ꢀꢂ. Signal Level LEDs  
These LEDs indicate the sum of the channel’s left and  
right signal levels after the GAIN and EQ controls, but  
just prior to the channel’s fader. So even if the fader is  
turned down, you can see if a signal is present.  
If you’ve followed the “Set the Levels” procedure, the  
–20 and 0 LEDs should light frequently, the +10 LED  
should light occasionally, and the OL (Overload) LED  
should not light at all. If the OL LED is blinking fre-  
quently, the signal is probably distorted from overdriving  
the input. Either turn down the GAIN control or turn  
down the signal at its source.  
,
ꢀ4. EQ IN/OUT Switch  
*ꢂ  
This is a true hardware bypass of  
the Perkins EQ circuitry to insure  
that there is no coloration of the  
signal if the EQ is not needed.  
When this button is out, the EQ  
controls have no effect on the  
signal. You can use this switch to  
make an A/B comparison between  
the EQ’d signal and the signal  
without EQ.  
,
ꢅ1/ꢀ  
ꢁ0. GROUP and MAIN MIX ASSIGN Switches  
Σ  
Z8  
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ÎÓ  
Alongside each channel fader are three buttons  
referred to as channel assignment switches. Used in  
conjunction with the channel’s PAN knob, they are used  
to determine the destination of the channel’s signal.  
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The stereo channels are assignable to GROUPS 1-2,  
3-4, and the MAIN MIX. With the PAN knob [26] at the  
center detent, the left and right stereo signal is equally  
balanced. To feed only one side or the other, turn the  
PAN knob accordingly.  
ꢀ5. AUX Sends  
Óä  
+
These tap a portion of each  
channel’s signal out to an effects  
processor or for stage monitoring.  
The AUX Send levels are controlled  
by the channel’s AUX 1-6 knobs,  
and by the AUX SEND MASTERS  
knobs [55].  
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ꢁ1. PFL Solo Switch  
Π{  
Like the PFL switch on the mono channels, this switch  
allows you to hear signals through your headphones or  
monitor outputs without having to route them to the  
MAIN or GROUP mixes. Since this is Pre-Fader Listen,  
you can listen to the stereo signal even when the chan-  
nel fader is turned down. Unlike the mono channel PFL,  
the stereo channel PFL is a stereo signal (post-pan  
control), and therefore retains its left and right stereo  
image in the headphones and monitors, and appears on  
both LEFT and RIGHT meters.  
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,&  
ꢄꢁꢂ  
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ꢀ6. PAN  
PAN adjusts the amount of chan-  
nel signal sent to the left versus  
the right outputs. On the stereo  
channels, the PAN knob works like  
*ꢆꢄ  
the balance control on your home stereo (panning left  
turns down the right channel, and panning right turns  
down the left channel).  
The Rude Solo LEDS [43] below the meters indicate  
which solo mode is active.  
14  
ONYX 4•Bus  
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Matrix, Compressor, and Metering Section  
tantly, auto-gain compensation that provides the ap-  
propriate amount of makeup gain based on the amount  
of compression taking place.  
ꢁꢀ. MATRIX A and B Input Controls  
The Matrix A and B controls allow you to create sepa-  
rate mixes, or a stereo mix, from Groups 1 through 4 and  
the Left and Right Mix outputs. Simply adjust the six  
matrix input controls to create the mix you want at the  
MATRIX A or B outputs.  
The following knobs and switches are used to control  
the compressor.  
ꢁ6. THRESHOLD  
ꢁꢁ. MATRIX A and B MASTER Controls  
Determines the level at which the compressor begins  
to act on the incoming signal. It is calibrated in deci-  
bels, ranging from –30 to +10 dB.  
Use these controls to adjust the overall signal level at  
the MATRIX A and B outputs.  
ꢁ7. RATIO  
ꢁ4. AFL Solo Switch  
Determines the change in output level as a function of  
the change in input level, once the threshold has been  
exceeded. The Ratio control ranges from OFF (1:1) to  
LIMIT (:1). Thus, if the ratio is 2:1, an increase in  
input level of 10 dB (assuming the input is above the  
threshold level) results in a 5 dB increase in output level.  
The AFL switch allows you to hear the Matrix signal  
through your headphones or monitor outputs. This  
comes after the MATRIX MASTER, so you can hear the  
relative signal level of each Matrix output.  
When you engage the AFL switch on both MATRIX A  
and B, the soloed signal appears in stereo in the head-  
phones and monitor outputs. This is useful when you  
want to use both Matrix outputs to create a stereo mix.  
When set to LIMIT, the compressor acts as a peak  
limiter. After the initial attack time, the output changes  
very little once the input crosses the threshold.  
Remember, PFL solo mode always overrides AFL solo  
mode. If you engage a PFL solo switch on a mono or  
stereo channel, the AFL solo is disconnected from the  
headphones and monitor outputs and replaced with the  
PFL signal. The Rude Solo LEDS below the SOLO meters  
indicate which solo mode is active.  
PREMIUM ANALOG MIXER w / P E R K I N S E Q  
MATRIX  
COMPRESSOR  
A
B
-10  
INPUT  
G.R.  
0dB=0dBu  
GRP  
-20  
0
ꢁ5. COMPRESSOR/LIMITER  
CLIP  
20  
15  
10  
6
1
2
1
-30  
+10  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
THRESHOLD  
3
A compressor is used to reduce or limit transient  
peaks in a signal. As the input level to the compressor  
increases, the output level from the compressor increas-  
es linearly until the threshold point is reached. After  
that point, the output level no longer increases linearly.  
Instead, it increases at a reduced rate determined by  
the ratio setting. In other words, the greater the ratio  
setting, the less the output level changes as a function  
of the input level.  
GRP  
4
2:1  
2
5:1  
3
5
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
O O +15  
0
6
GRP  
OFF  
LIMIT  
2
7
RATIO  
3
4
8
O O MAX  
MAIN GRP  
MIX  
1-2  
7
9
GRP  
3-4  
GRP  
10  
20  
30  
10  
12  
15  
4
O O MAX  
COMP  
ASSIGN  
A compressor is often used on an individual signal  
(voice) or group of signals (drums) to smooth out tran-  
sients and allow signals to sit in the mix without harshly  
cutting through. A limiter, on the other hand, is often  
used between the mixer and the amplifier(s) to avoid  
power amplifier clipping or overdriving the speakers,  
known as system limiting.  
O O MAX  
LEFT  
FAST  
ATTACK  
BYPASS  
COMP  
O O MAX  
RIGHT  
A  
O O +15  
E  
MASTER  
STEREO  
The Onyx 4•Bus design team decided the compres-  
sor/limiter functions could be carried out onboard using  
a new integrated analog stereo compressor/limiter chip  
designed by THAT Corporation. It provides threshold,  
ratio, fast/slow attack control and, perhaps most impor-  
AFL  
AFL  
15  
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ꢁ8. COMP ASSIGN  
41. COMPRESSOR Meters  
Use this switch to assign the compressor to either the  
MAIN MIX, GROUP 1-2, GROUP 3-4, or OFF (not assigned).  
The INPUT meter indicates the signal level at the  
input of the compressor. Use this to help determine the  
setting of the THRESHOLD control. Once the input level  
crosses the threshold setting, the G.R. (Gain Reduction)  
meters begin to light (top to bottom), as they indicate  
how much gain reduction is being applied to the signal.  
When the compressor is assigned to the MAIN MIX, it  
is inserted in the signal flow after the MAIN MIX fader,  
so it works as an external dynamics processor. Once the  
signal crosses the THRESHOLD, boosting the MAIN MIX  
fader results in little change in the output level (de-  
pending on the RATIO setting).  
Note: If the COMP ASSIGN switch [38] is OFF, the  
COMPRESSOR meters will not indicate any signal.  
When the compressor is assigned to one of the GROUP  
pairs, it is inserted in the signal flow before the GROUP  
faders. In this way, the compressor can act on a group of  
channels assigned to the subgroup (for example, drum  
microphones), and the overall level of the compressed  
group can be mixed into the main mix.  
4ꢀ. LEFT/RIGHT Level Meters  
The Onyx 4•Bus Left and Right Level meters are  
made up of two columns of twelve LEDs, with three  
colors to indicate different ranges of signal level, traffic  
light style. They range from –30 at the bottom, to 0 in  
the middle, to +20 (CLIP) at the top.  
ꢁꢂ. FAST ATTACK  
The 0 LED in the middle is labeled 0 dB = 0 dBu.  
The ATTACK setting determines how fast the com-  
pressor reacts once the threshold has been exceeded. It  
also affects the release time, which determines how fast  
the compressor turns off once the signal falls below the  
threshold.  
You may already be an expert at the  
world of “+4” (+4 dBu=1.23 V) and  
“–10” (–10 dBV=0.32 V) operating  
levels. What makes a mixer one or  
the other is the relative 0 dB VU (or  
With the switch up, the attack and release times are  
calibrated to respond to the overall signal level without  
the audible “pumping” and “breathing” artifacts that are  
sometimes associated with compressors. In  
0 VU) chosen for the meters. A “+4”  
mixer, with +4 dBu pouring out the back will actually  
read 0 VU on its meters. A “–10” mixer, with a –10 dBV  
most cases, this is the setting you would use  
for live sound and recording applications.  
There may be some situtations that  
require a faster acting attack and release.  
POWER  
LAMP  
PREMIUM ANALOG MIXER w / P E R K I N S E Q  
12V, 0.5A  
PHONES  
For example, mic’ing a snare drum produces  
some fast transient peaks that may get  
through the compressor before it can act  
on the signal. Pushing in the FAST ATTACK  
switch allows the compressor to react much  
faster on quick transient peaks and release  
the compression quickly between the peaks.  
You can experiment with both settings to  
determine which one works best in your  
application.  
MATRIX  
COMPRESSOR  
MAIN MIX  
A
B
-10  
LEFT  
RIGHT  
INPUT  
G.R.  
0dB=0dBu  
GRP  
0dB=0dBu  
-20  
0
CLIP  
20  
15  
10  
6
20  
15  
10  
6
1
2
CLIP  
1
-30  
+10  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
THRESHOLD  
3
GRP  
4
2:1  
2
5:1  
3
3
5
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
O O MAX  
O O +15  
LEVEL  
SET  
0
6
GRP  
OFF  
LIMIT  
2
2
7
RATIO  
3
4
4
8
O O MAX  
MAIN GRP  
MIX  
1-2  
7
7
9
GRP  
3-4  
GRP  
10  
20  
30  
10  
20  
30  
10  
12  
15  
4
O O MAX  
40. BYPASS COMP Switch  
COMP  
ASSIGN  
When the BYPASS COMP switch is pushed  
in, the signal bypasses the compressor, but  
still allows you to see the input signal level  
to the compressor and the amount of gain  
reduction applied to the signal on the me-  
ters. This is useful when setting up the com-  
pressor settings prior to actually engaging  
the compressor in a live sound application,  
and for making A/B comparisons between  
the compressed and uncompressed sound.  
PFL  
AFL  
O O MAX  
LEFT  
RUDE  
SOLO  
FAST  
ATTACK  
BYPASS  
COMP  
O O MAX  
RIGHT  
O O +15  
MASTER  
STEREO  
AFL  
AFL  
16  
ONYX 4•Bus  
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signal trickling out will read, you guessed it, 0 VU on its  
meters. So when is 0 VU actually 0 dBu? Right now!  
PHONES level turned all the way down before connect-  
ing headphones to the PHONES jack. Keep it down until  
you’ve put on the headphones. Then turn it up slowly.  
Why? Always remember: “Engineers who fry their  
ears, find themselves with short careers.”  
Mackie mixers show things as they really are. When 0  
dBu (0.775 V) is at the outputs, it shows as 0 dB VU on  
the meters. What could be easier? By the way, the most  
wonderful thing about standards is that there are so  
many to choose from.  
Phones/Monitor, Solo, Mono,  
and Talkback Section  
Thanks to the Onyx 4•Bus’ wide dynamic range,  
you can get a good mix with peaks flashing anywhere  
between –20 and +10 dB on the meters. Most amplifiers  
clip at about +10 dBu, and some recorders aren’t so  
forgiving either. For best real-world results, try to keep  
your peaks between “0” and “+10.”  
47. PHONES Level Control  
This controls the signal level at the stereo headphone  
output [46].  
Remember, audio meters are just tools to help assure  
you that your levels are “in the ballpark.” You don’t have  
to stare at them (unless you want to).  
48. MONITOR Level Control  
Note: The L/R meters indicate solo levels whenever  
an AFL or PFL solo switch is pushed in.  
This controls the signal level at the MONITOR output  
[78].  
4ꢁ. RUDE SOLO Lights  
4ꢂ. SOLO LEVEL Control  
These LEDs flash on and off when a channel’s solo is  
active, as an additional reminder beyond the indicating  
LEDs next to each PFL or AFL button. The green LED  
indicates PFL solo mode, and the amber LED indicates  
AFL solo mode. If you work on a mixer that has a solo  
function with no indicator lights and you happen to  
forget you’re in solo mode, you can easily be tricked  
into thinking that something is wrong with your mixer.  
Hence, the RUDE SOLO lights. It’s especially handy at  
about 3 am when no sound is coming out of your moni-  
tors but your multitrack is playing back like mad.  
The SOLO LEVEL control is used to adjust the volume of  
the solo’ed signal as it is routed to the MONITOR [78] and  
PHONES [46] outputs. This control is independent of, and  
prior to, the MONITOR and PHONES level controls.  
This controls the solo signal level for both PFL and  
AFL solo modes. You can use the SOLO LEVEL control  
to balance the solo levels with the main or tape levels at  
the MONITOR or PHONES out.  
50. MONO Level Control  
In addition to the Left and Right Main Mix outputs,  
the Onyx 4•Bus provides an independent monophonic  
output. The Left and Right Main Mix signals are  
summed and sent to the MONO OUT [84]. This controls  
the signal level at the MONO output.  
44. POWER Indicator  
This LED indicates when power is applied to the Onyx  
mixer and the POWER switch is on.  
45. LAMP Connector  
51. MAIN TO MON Switch  
This female BNC connector provides +12 volts DC for  
gooseneck lamps. See your Mackie dealer for gooseneck  
lamp recommendations (12 V lamp with BNC connector).  
This switch routes the stereo L/R Main Mix signal  
(post-fader) to both the Monitor and Phones outputs  
when there are no solo switches engaged. The L/R Main  
Mix signal is overridden in the Monitor and Phones  
outputs by any PFL or AFL solo.  
46. PHONES Jack  
Note: If a PFL solo switch is engaged, it overrides the  
AFL solo mode, including MAIN TO MON/PHONES.  
This is where you plug in your stereo headphones. It is  
1/4" TRS stereo jack and provides the same signal that  
is routed to the MONITOR outputs [78]. The volume is  
controlled with the PHONES knob [47].  
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WARNING: The headphone amp is designed to drive  
any standard headphones to a very loud level. We’re  
not kidding! It can cause permanent hearing damage.  
Even intermediate levels may be painfully loud with  
some headphones. BE CAREFUL! Always start with the  
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Owner’s Manual  
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TALKBACK Section  
Auxiliary Section  
The talkback feature allows the engineer to com-  
municate with the talent either through the AUX 1-6  
[87] Sends, or the MAIN L/R [82] outputs. Connect an  
external microphone to the TALKBACK MIC XLR [81]  
connector on the rear panel to use the talkback feature.  
This section includes the AUX SEND MASTERS and  
the STEREO RETURNS. These can be a bit confusing  
to the uninitiated, so here’s the whole idea behind aux  
sends and returns: sends are outputs and returns are  
inputs. AUX SENDs tap signals off the channels, via the  
AUX knobs [12/25], mix these signals together, then  
send them out the AUX SEND jacks [87].  
5ꢀ. TALKBACK ASSIGN Switches  
These outputs are fed to the inputs of an external  
processor like a reverb or digital delay. From there, the  
mono or stereo outputs of the external device are fed  
back to the mixer’s STEREO RETURN jacks [80]. These  
signals are sent through the STEREO RETURN LEVEL  
controls [64], and finally delivered to the MAIN MIX  
bus.  
These switches route the talkback signal to vari-  
ous outputs, including AUX 1-2, AUX 3-4, AUX 5-6, and  
MAIN MIX outputs. You might use a pair of Aux Sends  
to communicate with musicians on-stage through their  
monitors during a live performance. These could be  
floor wedges or in-ear monitors.  
By the way, it is okay to have more than one TB ASSIGN  
switch pushed in at the same time. The talkback signal  
will be routed to all the destinations you have selected.  
But if you don’t have any of the assign switches pushed  
in, the talkback signal won’t go anywhere, and you will  
wonder why everyone seems to be ignoring you.  
So, the original “dry” signals go from the channels to  
the MAIN MIX and the affected “wet” signals go from the  
STEREO RETURNS to the MAIN MIX, and once mixed  
together, the dry and wet signals combine to create a  
glorious sound!  
The AUX SENDS can also be used to provide an-  
other mix for stage monitors. In this case, the STEREO  
RETURNS aren’t used to return the signal. Instead, they  
can be used as additional stereo inputs.  
5ꢁ. TALKBACK Level Control  
Use this knob to control the level of the talkback  
signal being routed to the AUX or MAIN L/R outputs.  
Aux Send Masters Section  
55. AUX SEND MASTERS  
54. TALKBACK Switch  
This is a latching switch, meaning it’s always active  
when the switch is pushed in. As long as the switch is  
engaged, the talkback signal is routed to the outputs  
determined by the talkback assign switches [52]. Push  
the switch again to release it, and the talkback circuit is  
turned off. An LED above the switch indicates when the  
TALKBACK switch is active.  
The AUX SEND MASTERS provide overall control  
over the AUX SEND levels, just before they are delivered  
to the AUX SEND outputs [87]. These knobs go from off  
() to +15 dB when turned all the way up.  
When using the Aux Send for monitors, this is usu-  
ally the knob you turn up when the lead singer glares at  
you, points at his stage monitor, and sticks his thumb up  
in the air. (It would follow that if the singer stuck his  
thumb down, you’d turn the knob down, but that never  
happens.)  
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This switch is used to select whether the Aux send  
signal is pre-fader or post-fader.  
When the PRE/POST switch is up, the Aux send  
signal is pre-fader, which is usually used for sending to  
monitors (stage monitor wedges or IEM, in-ear monitor  
systems). This way, when changes are made to fader  
levels in the front-of-house mix, it doesn’t affect the  
monitor mix.  
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When the PRE/POST switch is pushed in, the Aux  
send signal is post-fader, which is usually used when  
18  
ONYX 4•Bus  
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you are using the Aux send to go to an effects processor.  
This way, when fader changes are made, the “wet” signal  
going to the effects processor moves up and down along  
with the “dry” signal, maintaining a balance between  
them.  
60. TO MON/PHONES Switch  
Press this switch to route the CD/TAPE signal to the  
Monitor and Phones outputs when there are no solo  
switches engaged. The Main Mix and CD/TAPE signal  
is overridden in the Monitor and Phones outputs by any  
PFL or AFL solo.  
The pre-fader Aux Sends are post-EQ by default. How-  
ever, an internal jumper is provided on each channel to  
change the pre-fader Aux Sends to pre-EQ, if desired.  
This requires some soldering skills, so contact Tech Sup-  
port for information on how to access the pre/post-EQ  
jumpers for the Aux Sends.  
61. BREAK (TAPE TO MAIN)  
Press this switch to route the CD/TAPE signal to  
the Main outputs. This actually disconnects the Main  
Mix signal from the Main outputs and replaces it with  
the CD/TAPE signal. This allows you to easily start up  
recorded music during a break without having to mute  
or turn down the faders on all the channels.  
57. AFL Solo Switch  
The AFL switch allows you to hear the Aux Send sig-  
nal through your headphones or monitor outputs. This  
comes after the Aux Send GAIN control, so you can hear  
the relative signal level on each Aux Send.  
The patch point for the BREAK switch is prior to the  
MAIN INSERTS, the COMPRESSOR (if selected), and  
the MAIN MIX fader.  
Remember, PFL solo mode always overrides AFL solo  
mode. If you engage a PFL solo switch on a mono or  
stereo channel, the AFL solo is disconnected from the  
headphones and monitor outputs and replaced with the  
PFL signal. The Rude Solo LEDS below the SOLO meters  
indicate which solo mode is active.  
6ꢀ. STEREO RETURNS AUX Sends  
These tap a portion of the STEREO RETURNS signal  
out to AUX 1-4. This allows you to send a processed  
signal out to another processor if you want, or to add a  
processed signal to a monitor mix, or to use the Stereo  
Return as a stereo input and still be able to send the  
signal to an external processor or stage monitor.  
58. MUTE  
Press this switch to mute the Aux Send output. When  
the MUTE switch is pushed in on an Aux Send, you can  
still solo the Aux Send.  
FEEDBACK LOOP WARNING: It is  
common to use an Aux Send to route  
signals to an external processor, and  
then return the signal from the pro-  
cessor via the Stereo Returns. Since  
5ꢂ. CD/TAPE Level Control  
the Stereo Returns on the Onyx 4•Bus have Aux Sends  
of their own, you could accidentally route the Stereo  
Return signal to an Aux Send that is being returned via  
that same Stereo Return. This will cause a feedback loop,  
This knob controls the level of the signals connected  
to the left and right TAPE IN jacks. The signal is then  
sent to the MONITOR/PHONES output (when the TO  
MON/PHONES switch [60] is pushed in) and the MAIN  
characterized by  
OUT (when the  
BREAK switch  
[61] is pushed  
in). The CD/TAPE  
level control pro-  
vides 10 dB of ad-  
ditional gain when  
turned fully up.  
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the audience. Be  
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Aux Sends on the  
Stereo Returns!  
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6ꢁ. SHIFT Switch  
68. GROUP Fader  
The Stereo Returns have two Aux Send controls.  
When the SHIFT switch is up, they route the signal to  
Aux 1 and Aux 2, and when the switch is down, they  
route the signal to Aux 3 and Aux 4.  
This fader controls the Group’s signal level, from off to  
unity gain at the “U” marking, on up to 10 dB of addi-  
tional gain.  
6ꢂ. Signal Level LEDs  
64. STEREO RETURNS LEVEL Control  
These LEDs indicate the Group’s signal level after  
the Fader, but before the MUTE switch. So if the Group  
Fader is down, the Signal Level LEDs won’t light.  
This controls the level of the Stereo Return signal  
being sent to the Main Mix bus. It ranges from off to  
+10 dB of additional gain when turn fully clockwise.  
70. MAIN MIX Assign Switch  
65. PFL Solo Switch  
Push in this switch to send the Group signal to the left  
and right MAIN OUTS. When the PAN control is centered,  
the signal is sent equally to the left and right outputs.  
Like the PFL switch on the stereo channels, this  
switch allows you to hear signals through your head-  
phones or monitor outputs without having to route them  
to the Main Mix. Since this is Pre-Fader Listen, you can  
listen to the Stereo Return signal even  
when the Stereo Returns Level control is  
turned down. The Stereo Returns PFL is a  
stereo signal, and therefore retains its left  
and right stereo image in the headphones  
and monitors, and appears on both LEFT  
The signal sent to the MAIN OUTS is after the Group  
Insert, Fader, and MUTE switch.  
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There are four group masters (or sub-  
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masters, if you prefer) that feed the four  
group outs [85].  
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only when the MAIN MIX switch is en-  
gaged [70].  
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PAN adjusts the amount of signal sent  
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With the PAN knob hard left, the signal  
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the knob hard right, the signal feeds the  
MAIN RIGHT output.  
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67. MUTE Switch  
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Press this switch to mute the Group  
output. When the MUTE switch is pushed  
in on a Group, you can still solo the Group  
signal (see AFL Solo Switch [71] ahead),  
but it is muted at the Group output [85],  
the Main output [82](when the MAIN  
MIX assign switch is pushed in), and the  
Matrix output [77].  
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71. AFL Solo Switch  
Rear Panel  
The AFL switch allows you to hear the Group signal  
through your headphones or monitor outputs. This  
comes after the Group Fader and before the MUTE  
switch, so you can hear the relative signal level on each  
Group even when they are muted.  
This is where all the connections are made to the  
Onyx 4•Bus (except the headphones and lamps).  
7ꢁ. MIC Input  
This is a female XLR connector, which accepts a bal-  
anced microphone input from almost any type of micro-  
phone. The microphone preamps feature our new Onyx  
design, with higher fidelity and headroom rivaling any  
standalone mic preamp on the market today.  
When you engage the AFL switch on two consecu-  
tive odd/even Groups (i.e., 1 and 2, 3 and 4), the soloed  
signal appears in stereo in the headphones and monitor  
outputs. This is useful when you are using a pair of Group  
Sends in stereo to feed an in-ear monitoring system.  
The XLR inputs are wired as follows:  
Pin 1 = Shield or ground  
Remember, PFL solo mode always overrides AFL solo  
mode. If you engage a PFL solo switch on a mono or  
stereo channel, the AFL solo is disconnected from the  
headphones and monitor outputs and replaced with the  
PFL signal. The Rude Solo LEDS below the SOLO meters  
indicate which solo mode is active.  
Pin 2 = Positive (+ or hot)  
Pin 3 = Negative (– or cold)  
The MIC inputs can accept a balanced line-level input  
when the PAD [1] switch on the channel strip is pushed  
in (the input impedance is lower than the LINE input).  
7ꢀ. MAIN MIX Fader  
74. LINE Input  
This is the master fader that control the levels at the  
MAIN OUTS.  
This is a 1/4" TRS connector, which accepts a balanced or  
unbalanced line-level input signal from almost any source.  
When MAIN TO MON [51] is selected in the PHONES/  
MONITOR Section, the MAIN MIX fader also controls the  
main mix level in the PHONES and MONITOR outputs  
[46/78].  
When connecting a balanced signal to the LINE inputs,  
wire them as follows:  
Tip = Positive (+ or hot)  
Ring = Negative (– or cold)  
Sleeve = Shield or ground  
When the fader is fully down, the MAIN MIX is off.  
The “U” marking indicates unity gain, and fully up pro-  
vides 10 dB of additional gain. Typically, this fader is set  
near the “U” label and left alone, but it can be used for  
song fade-outs or quick system-wide mutes.  
When connecting an unbalanced signal, wire them as  
follows:  
Tip = Positive (+ or hot)  
Sleeve = Shield or ground  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
12  
11  
10  
9
8
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
CAUTION  
ꢀ1  
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Here are three ways you use the INSERT jacks:  
75. INSERT  
These 1/4 TRS jacks provide a send and return point  
"
for each channel. Use the INSERT jacks to connect  
serial effects devices such as compressors, equalizers,  
de-essers, or filters to each individual channel.  
MONOPLUG  
ChannelInsert jack  
Direct out with no signal interruption to master.  
Insert only to first “click.”  
The INSERT points are after the GAIN and Low Cut  
controls, but before the EQ and Fader controls. The  
send (tip) is low-impedance, capable of driving any  
device. The return (ring) is high-impedance and can be  
driven by almost any device.  
MONOPLUG  
ChannelInsert jack  
Direct out with signal interruption to master.  
Insert all the way in to the second “click.”  
Special insert cables are available, specially designed  
for this kind of insert jack. They are wired as follows:  
SEND to processor  
ring  
“from tip”  
STEREO  
PLUG  
(TRS plug)  
tip  
sleeve  
ChannelInsert jack  
this plug connects to one of the  
mixer’s Channel Insert jacks.  
Foruse asan effectsloop.  
“to ring”  
RETURN from processor  
(TIP= SEND toeffect, RING= RETURN fromeffect)  
Tip = Send (output to effects device)  
Ring = Return ( input from effects device)  
Sleeve = Common ground (connect shield to all  
three sleeves)  
76. DIRECT OUTS  
Besides being used for inserting external devices,  
these jacks can also be used as channel direct outputs;  
post-GAIN, post-LOW CUT, and pre-EQ. This is an unbal-  
anced direct out, in contrast to the DIRECT OUTS on  
the rear panel, which are balanced direct outputs, post-  
GAIN, post-INSERT, and pre-EQ.  
Each of these DB-25 connectors provides balanced  
direct outputs for eight channels. They are designed to  
be connected directly to a recorder’s analog inputs, and  
use the TASCAM standard pinout for analog signal con-  
nections (the same standard used on the analog cards  
for the Mackie D8B, DXB, and Hard Disk Recorder).  
The signal at the DIRECT OUTS comes after the input  
GAIN control, Low-Cut switch, and INSERT jack, but  
before the EQ. This way you can EQ a channel and ad-  
just the channel fader to suit your live mix, but it has no  
effect on the signal going to the recorder. This provides  
maximum flexibility for the mixdown stage.  
STEREO RETURNS  
MON OUT MTRX OUT  
TAPE  
OUT  
31 LINE IN 29  
LINE IN  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSE  
LIN  
28  
27  
26  
25  
24  
23  
22  
21  
32  
30  
IN  
LEFT  
L
A
L
L
(MONO)  
L
L
MONO  
MONO  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
1
2
R
R
RIGHT  
R
R
R
B
IN  
OUT  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/U  
RIGHT  
LEFT  
TALK BACK  
MIC  
MAIN BALANCED OUTS  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MI  
RIGHT  
LEFT  
MONO  
MAIN  
INSERTS  
MAIN  
OUTS  
BAL/UNBAL  
4
3
2
1
6
5
4
3
2
1
POWER  
ON  
GROUP  
AUX  
INSERTS  
INSERTS  
GROUP  
AUX  
OUTS  
SENDS  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
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Internal jumpers are provided to change the DIRECT  
OUTS to post-EQ on a channel-by-channel basis, if  
desired. This requires some soldering skills, so contact  
Tech Support for information on how to access the  
pre/post-EQ jumpers for the DIRECT OUTS.  
80. STEREO RETURNS  
These 1/4" TRS jacks accept balanced or unbalanced  
line-level stereo signals from an external processor or  
other line-level device. The STEREO RETURNS use a  
technique called jack normalling. If a signal is plugged  
into the LEFT (MONO) side and nothing is plugged into  
the RIGHT side, the signal is automatically routed to both  
LEFT and RIGHT sides. As soon as something is plugged  
into the RIGHT side, the normalled connection is broken  
and the LEFT and RIGHT inputs become stereo inputs  
(LEFT goes to the LEFT MAIN OUT and RIGHT goes to the  
RIGHT MAIN OUT).  
See Appendix B for a wiring diagram of the DIRECT OUT  
connectors.  
77. MATRIX OUT  
These 1/4 TRS jacks provide balanced line-level sig-  
"
nals for the MATRIX A and B mixes. These can be con-  
nected to the inputs of an amplifier, powered speaker,  
headphone distribution amplifier, or recording device.  
81. TALKBACK MIC  
78. MON(ITOR) OUT  
This is where you plug in your talkback microphone.  
This female XLR connector does not have phantom power,  
so use a dynamic microphone or a self-powered condenser  
microphone.  
These 1/4" TRS jacks provide a balanced line-level signal  
that can be used to provide another main mix output (with  
MAIN TO MON [51] selected in the PHONES/MONITOR  
Section), or to monitor soloed channels.  
8ꢀ. LEFT/RIGHT MAIN OUTS  
Connect these outputs to the inputs of an amplifier,  
powered speaker, headphone distribution amplifier, or  
recording device.  
There are two sets of outputs for the Left/Right Main  
Outputs: Male XLR connectors that provide balanced  
line-level signals and 1/4" TRS connectors that provide  
balanced or unbalanced line-level signals. Each XLR  
connector is in parallel with its corresponding 1/4" TRS  
connector, and carries exactly the same signal.  
7ꢂ. TAPE IN/OUT  
Use the TAPE OUT jacks to capture the entire perfor-  
mance to tape. The signal at these jacks is the main mix,  
after the MAIN INSERTS [83], the MAIN MIX FADER [72],  
and the COMPRESSOR [41].  
This represents the end of the mixer chain, where  
your fully mixed stereo signal enters the real world.  
Connect these to the inputs of your main power ampli-  
fiers, powered speakers, or serial effects processor (like  
a graphic equalizer, or compressor/limiter if you are not  
using the built-in stereo compressor on the main outs).  
Use the TAPE IN jacks to connect the outputs from any  
stereo line-level signal source, such as a tape player, CD  
player, MP3 player, television audio, etc., to provide inter-  
mission entertainment. Push in the BREAK switch [61] to  
route the TAPE IN signal to the mains (and disconnect the  
main mix signal from the MAIN OUT), and push in the TO  
MON/PHONES switch [60] to route the TAPE IN signal to  
the MONITOR and PHONES outputs.  
NSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
16  
15  
14  
13  
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
17  
12  
11  
10  
9
8
L/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
DIRECT OUTS  
POST GAIN / INSERT  
-
9-16  
1 8  
CAUTION  
(BALANCED)  
(BALANCED)  
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8ꢁ. MAIN INSERTS  
88. AUX SEND INSERTS  
These 1/4" TRS jacks are for connecting serial effects  
such as compressors, equalizers, deessers, or filters.  
The insert point is after the mix amps and BREAK [61]  
switch, but before the MAIN MIX faders and the built-in  
These 1/4" TRS jacks are for connecting serial effects  
such as compressors, equalizers, deessers, or filters.  
The insert point is after the mix amps, but before the  
Aux Send Masters and the AFL Solo switch (so you can  
compressor. Refer to the description of the channel insert hear the external processor when soloing the aux send).  
on the previous page to see how to make this connection. Refer to the description of the channel insert on page 22  
to see how to make this connection.  
84. MONO OUT  
8ꢂ. Power Receptacle  
This male XLR output connector provides a balanced  
line-level signal that is a combination of the left and right  
This is a standard 3-prong IEC power connector. Con-  
MAIN OUT signals (L+R). You can use this for a separate nect the detachable linecord (included in the box with  
mix that doesn’t require a stereo feed, or to simply test  
the monaural compatibility of your stereo mix.  
your Onyx 4•Bus) to the power receptacle, and plug the  
other end of the linecord into an AC outlet. The Onyx  
4•Bus has a universal power supply that can accept  
any AC voltage ranging from 100 VAC to 240 VAC. No  
need for voltage select switches. It will work virtually  
anywhere in the world. That’s why we call it a “Planet-  
Earth” power supply! This also means that it is less  
susceptible to voltage sags or spikes, providing greater  
electromagnetic isolation and better protection against  
AC line noise.  
85. GROUP OUTS 1-4  
These 1/4 TRS output connectors provide balanced  
"
or unbalanced line-level signals for connecting to the  
inputs of any line-level device.  
86. GROUP SEND INSERTS  
ꢂ0. POWER Switch  
These 1/4 TRS jacks are for connecting serial effects  
"
such as compressors, equalizers, deessers, or filters. The  
insert point is after the mix amps, but before the Group  
Send Masters (and before the built-in stereo compres-  
sor). Refer to the description of the channel insert on  
the previous page to see how to make this connection.  
This one is self-explanatory. When the POWER switch  
is turned ON, power is supplied to the Onyx 4•Bus and  
the POWER LED on the front panel lights up.  
Press the bottom of this switch to put the mixer into  
standby mode. It will not function, but the circuits are still  
live. To remove AC power, either turn off the AC mains sup-  
ply, or unplug the power cord from the mixer and the AC  
mains supply.  
87. AUX SENDS 1-6  
These 1/4 TRS output connectors provide balanced  
"
or unbalanced line-level signals for connecting to the  
inputs of effects devices or stage monitor amplifiers.  
STEREO RETURNS  
MON OUT MTRX OUT  
TAPE  
OUT  
31 LINE IN 29  
LINE IN  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSERT  
LINE  
INSE  
LIN  
28  
27  
26  
25  
24  
23  
22  
21  
32  
30  
IN  
LEFT  
L
A
L
L
(MONO)  
L
L
MONO  
MONO  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
1
2
R
R
RIGHT  
R
R
R
B
IN  
OUT  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/U  
RIGHT  
LEFT  
TALK BACK  
MIC  
MAIN BALANCED OUTS  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MI  
RIGHT  
LEFT  
MONO  
MAIN  
INSERTS  
MAIN  
OUTS  
BAL/UNBAL  
4
3
2
1
6
5
4
3
2
1
POWER  
ON  
GROUP  
AUX  
INSERTS  
INSERTS  
GROUP  
AUX  
OUTS  
SENDS  
BAL/UNBAL  
BAL/UNBAL  
ꢀ4  
ONYX 4•Bus  
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Appendix A: Service Information  
If you think your Mackie product has a problem, please  
check out the following troubleshooting tips and do  
your best to confirm the problem. Visit the Support sec-  
you will find lots of useful information such as FAQs and  
other documentation. You may find the answer to the  
problem without having to send your Mackie product  
away.  
Is there something plugged into the CHANNEL  
INSERT jack [75]? Try unplugging any INSERT  
devices.  
Try the same source signal in another channel, set  
up exactly like the suspect channel.  
Bad Output  
Is the associated level control (if any) turned up?  
If it’s one of the MAIN OUTPUTS, try unplugging all  
Troubleshooting  
the others. For example, if it’s the 1/4 LEFT MAIN  
"
OUT, unplug the XLR LEFT OUTPUT. If the problem  
goes away, it’s not the mixer.  
No Power  
Our favorite question: Is it plugged in?  
If it’s a stereo pair, try switching them around. For  
example, if a left output is presumed dead, switch  
the left and right cords at the mixer end. If the  
problem stays on the left side, it’s not the mixer.  
Make sure the power cord is securely seated in the  
IEC socket [89] and plugged all the way into the  
AC outlet.  
Bad Sound  
Make sure the AC outlet is live (check with a tester  
or lamp).  
Is the input connector plugged completely into the  
jack?  
Is the POWER [90] switch on? Make sure the  
POWER switch on the rear panel is in the ON posi-  
tion (up).  
Is it loud and distorted? Make sure the input GAIN  
control for the input is set correctly. Reduce the  
signal level on the input source if possible.  
Is the POWER LED [44] on the front panel illumi-  
nated? If not, make sure the AC outlet is live.  
If possible, listen to the signal with headphones  
plugged into the input source device. If it sounds  
bad there, it’s not the Onyx 4•Bus causing the prob-  
lem.  
Are all the lights out in your building? If so, contact  
your local power company to get power restored.  
If the POWER LED is not illuminated, and you are  
certain that the AC outlet is live, it will be necessary  
to have your Onyx 4•Bus serviced. There are no user  
serviceable parts inside. Refer to “Repair” at the end  
of this section to find out how to proceed.  
Noise/Hum  
Turn down the STEREO RETURN LEVEL controls  
[64]. If the noise disappears, it’s coming from what-  
ever is plugged into the STEREO RETURNS [80].  
Bad Channel  
Turn down each channel, one by one. If the noise  
disappears, it’s coming from whatever is plugged  
into that channel.  
Is the MUTE button [14/27] pushed in?  
Is the input GAIN control [4/19] for the channel  
turned up?  
Check the signal cables between the input sources  
and the Onyx. Disconnect them one by one. When  
the noise goes away, you’ll know which input source  
is causing the problem.  
Is the fader [15/28] turned up?  
Is the signal source turned up? Make sure the  
signal level from the selected input source is  
high enough to light up some of the INPUT meter  
[16/29] LEDs next to the channel’s fader.  
Sometimes it helps to plug all the audio equipment  
into the same AC circuit so they share a common  
ground.  
Is the channel assigned to a bus (GROUP ASSIGN  
or MAIN MIX button pushed in)?  
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Repair  
For warranty service, refer to the warranty informa-  
tion on page 35.  
Non-warranty service for Mackie products is avail-  
able at a factory-authorized service center. To locate  
“Support” and select “Locate a Service Center.” Service  
for Mackie products living outside the United States can  
be obtained through local dealers or distributors.  
If you do not have access to our website, you can call  
our Tech Support department at 1-800-898-3211, Mon-  
day-Friday, during normal business hours, Pacific Time,  
to explain the problem. Tech Support will tell you where  
the nearest factory-authorized service center is located  
in your area.  
Need Help?  
You can reach a technical support representative  
Monday through Friday  
during normal business hours, PST at:  
1-800-8ꢂ8-ꢁꢀ11  
After hours, visit www.mackie.com and click Support,  
or email us at: [email protected]  
ꢀ6  
ONYX 4•Bus  
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Appendix B: Connections  
XLR Connectors  
1/4" TS Phone Plugs and Jacks  
The mono channels use 3-pin female XLR connectors  
on the MIC inputs. They are wired as follows, according  
to standards specified by the AES (Audio Engineering  
Society).  
“TS” stands for Tip-Sleeve, the two connection points  
available on a mono 1/4 phone jack or plug. They are  
used for unbalanced signals.  
"
SLEEVE  
SLEEVE  
TIP  
2
SHIELD  
HOT  
TIP  
TIP  
1
3
COLD  
SLEEVE  
SHIELD  
1
1/4 TS Unbalanced Wiring:  
Sleeve = Shield  
Tip = Hot (+)  
"
3
COLD  
2
HOT  
SHIELD  
COLD  
HOT  
1
3
2
XLR Balanced Wiring:  
Pin 1 = Shield  
Pin 2 = Hot (+)  
Pin 3 = Cold (–)  
RCA Plugs and Jacks  
RCA-type plugs (also known as phono plugs) and jacks  
are often used in home stereo and video equipment and  
in many other applications. They are unbalanced and  
electrically equivalent to a 1/4 TS phone plug.  
"
1/4" TRS Phone Plugs and Jacks  
TIP  
SLEEVE TIP SLEEVE  
“TRS” stands for Tip-Ring-Sleeve, the three connection  
points available on a stereo 1/4 or balanced phone  
"
jack or plug. TRS jacks and plugs are used for balanced  
signals and stereo headphones:  
RCA Unbalanced Wiring:  
Sleeve = Shield  
Tip = Hot (+)  
Balanced Mono  
RING SLEEVE  
TIP  
SLEEVE RING TIP  
Unbalancing a Line  
RING  
TIP  
In most studio, stage, and sound reinforcement situ-  
ations, there is a combination of balanced and unbal-  
anced inputs and outputs on the various pieces of  
equipment. This usually will not be a problem in making  
connections.  
SLEEVE  
1/4 TRS Balanced Mono Wiring:  
"
Sleeve = Shield  
Tip = Hot (+)  
Ring = Cold (–)  
When connecting a balanced output to an unbal-  
anced input, be sure the signal high (hot) connec-  
tions are wired to each other, and that the balanced  
signal low (cold) goes to the ground (earth)  
Stereo Headphones  
RING SLEEVE  
TIP  
SLEEVE RING TIP  
connection at the unbalanced input. In most cases,  
the balanced ground (earth) will also be connected  
to the ground (earth) at the unbalanced input. If  
there are ground-loop problems, this connection  
may be left disconnected at the balanced end.  
RING  
TIP  
SLEEVE  
1/4 TRS Stereo Unbalanced Wiring:  
"
Sleeve = Shield  
Tip = Left  
Ring = Right  
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When connecting an unbalanced output to a bal-  
anced input, be sure that the signal high (hot)  
connections are wired to each other. The unbal-  
anced ground (earth) connection should be wired  
to the low (cold) and the ground (earth) connec-  
tions of the balanced input. If there are ground-loop  
problems, try disconnecting the unbalanced ground  
(earth) connection from the balanced input ground  
(earth) connection, leaving the unbalanced ground  
connected to the balanced input low (cold) con-  
nection only.  
This allows you to tap out the channel’s signal at that  
point in the circuit without interrupting normal operation.  
Note: Do not overload or short-circuit  
the signal you are tapping from the  
mixer. That will affect the internal  
signal.  
If you push the 1/4 TS plug in to the second click,  
"
you will open the jack switch and create a direct out,  
which does interrupt the signal in that channel.  
In some cases, you may have to make up special  
adapters to interconnect your equipment. For example,  
you may need a balanced XLR female connected to an  
MONOPLUG  
unbalanced 1/4  
"
TS phone plug. Many common adapters  
ChannelInsert jack  
can be found at your local electronics supply store.  
Direct out with no signal interruption to master.  
Insert only to first “click.”  
The balanced-to-unbalanced connection has been  
anticipated in the wiring of Mackie jacks. A 1/4  
inserted into a 1/4 TRS balanced input, for example,  
will automatically unbalance the input and make all the  
right connections. Conversely, a 1/4 TRS plug inserted  
into a 1/4 unbalanced input will not necessarily tie the  
"
TS plug  
"
MONOPLUG  
ChannelInsert jack  
"
"
Direct out with signal interruption to master.  
Insert all the way in to the second “click.”  
ring (low or cold) to ground (earth).  
TRS Send/Receive Insert Jacks  
STEREO  
PLUG  
ChannelInsert jack  
Mackie’s single-jack inserts are three-conductor 1/4  
TRS phone jacks. They are unbalanced, but have both  
the mixer output (send) and mixer input (return)  
signals in one connector.  
"
Foruse asan effectsloop.  
(TIP= SEND toeffect, RING= RETURN fromeffect)  
The sleeve is the common ground (earth) for both  
Mults and “Y”s  
signals. The send from the mixer to the external unit is  
carried on the tip, and the return from the unit to the  
mixer is on the ring.  
A mult or “Y” connector allows you to route one output  
to two or more inputs by simply providing parallel wir-  
ing connections. You can make “Y”s and mults for the  
outputs of both unbalanced and balanced circuits.  
SEND to processor  
ring  
“from tip”  
(TRS plug)  
tip  
sleeve  
Remember: Only mult or “Y” an out-  
put into several inputs. If you need  
to combine several outputs into one  
input, you must use a mixer, not a  
mult or a “Y.”  
this plug connects to one of the  
mixer’s Channel Insert jacks.  
“to ring”  
RETURN from processor  
Using the Send Only on an Insert Jack  
If you insert a 1/4 TS (mono) plug only partially (to  
"
the first click) into a Mackie insert jack, the plug will  
not activate the jack switch and will not open the insert  
loop in the circuit (thereby allowing the channel signal  
to continue on its merry way through the mixer).  
Y-Cord Splitter  
ꢀ8  
ONYX 4•Bus  
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DB25 Connectors  
The DIRECT OUTS on the back of the Onyx 4•Bus  
provide balanced direct outputs for all the mono chan-  
nels on female DB25 connectors. These connectors are  
pin-for-pin compatible with the analog (not TDIF) DB25  
connectors found on TASCAM DTRS recorders, which has  
become an industry standard for many professional audio  
manufacturers. They are also the same pinout as the ana-  
log cards for the Mackie D8B and hard disk recorders.  
0IN ꢀ  
0IN ꢃ  
0IN ꢄ  
0IN ꢆ  
0IN ꢈ  
0IN ꢇ  
0IN ꢅ  
0IN ꢂ  
0IN ꢉ  
0IN ꢀꢊ  
#H ꢂ  
#H ꢂ  
#H ꢅ  
#H ꢇ  
#H ꢇ  
#H ꢈ  
#H ꢆ  
#H ꢆ  
#H ꢄ  
#H ꢃ  
#H ꢃ  
#H ꢀ  
0IN ꢀꢆ  
0IN ꢀꢈ  
0IN ꢀꢇ SHIELD  
0IN ꢀꢅ  
0IN ꢀꢂ  
0IN ꢀꢉ SHIELD  
0IN ꢃꢊ  
0IN ꢃꢀ  
0IN ꢃꢃ SHIELD  
0IN ꢃꢄ  
0IN ꢃꢆ  
0IN ꢃꢈ SHIELD  
n
#H ꢂ  
#H ꢅ  
#H ꢅ  
#H ꢇ  
#H ꢈ  
#H ꢈ  
#H ꢆ  
#H ꢄ  
#H ꢄ  
#H ꢃ  
#H ꢀ  
#H ꢀ  
SHIELD  
n
SHIELD  
n
SHIELD  
n
n
n
n
0IN ꢀꢀ SHIELD  
0IN ꢀꢃ  
0IN ꢀꢄ .ꢋ#  
n
#( ꢀ #( ꢃ #( ꢄ #( ꢆ #( ꢈ #( ꢇ #( ꢅ #( ꢂ  
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#( ꢀꢅ #( ꢀꢂ #( ꢀꢉ #( ꢃꢊ #( ꢃꢀ #( ꢃꢃ #( ꢃꢄ #( ꢃꢆ  
#( ꢃꢈ #( ꢃꢇ #( ꢃꢅ #( ꢃꢂ #( ꢃꢉ #( ꢄꢊ #( ꢄꢀ #( ꢄꢃ  
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Several companies make DB25-to-DB25 cables specifi-  
cally for audio, with proper shielding to reduce crosstalk  
and noise.  
DB25 cables that break out to XLR, 1/4" TRS, or TT  
connectors for connecting to other mixers or audio gear  
are also readily available. See your Mackie dealer for  
details.  
Correct disposal of this product. This symbol indicates that this product should not be disposed of with your household waste, according to the WEEE Directive (2002/96/EC) and your national law. This product  
should be handed over to an authorized collection site for recycling waste electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). Improper handling of this type of waste could have a possible negative impact on the environment and  
human health due to potentially hazardous substances that are generally associated with EEE. At the same time, your cooperation in the correct disposal of this product will contribute to the effective usage of natural  
resources. For more information about where you can drop off your waste equipment for recycling, please contact your local city office, waste authority, or your household waste disposal service.  
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Appendix C: Technical Info  
Onyx 4•Bus Specifications  
Frequency Response  
Mixer Rated Output  
Mic Input to Main Output (Gain @ Unity)  
+0, –1 dB, <10 Hz to 80 kHz  
Main Outs:  
Aux Send:  
Group Send:  
Monitor Out:  
Matrix Out:  
+4 dBu  
+4 dBu  
+4 dBu  
+4 dBu  
+4 dBu  
+0, –3 dB, <10 Hz to 120 kHz  
Distortion (THD & IMD)  
Maximum Rated Output:  
+21 dBu @ Main XLR and TRS outputs  
Mic Input to Main Output (@ +4 dBu)  
THD: < 0.007% 20 Hz to 20 kHz  
0.003% @ 1kHz typical  
Maximum Input Levels  
SMPTE IMD: < 0.005% (7 kHz/60 Hz, 4:1)  
Mic Input:  
Mic Input:  
Line Input:  
Tape Input:  
Stereo Return:  
+21 dBu, Gain @ unity, pad out  
Dynamic Range  
+30 dBu, Gain @ unity, pad in  
+21 dBu, Gain @ –20 dB  
+30 dBu  
>115 dB, Mic In to Main Out  
+21 dBu  
Noise Floor  
Signal-to-Noise Ratio:  
Maximum Voltage Gain  
Mic Input to:  
Main Out:  
–87 dBu (ref. +4 dBu, Mic In to Main Out,  
32 channels and Main Mix levels at unity)  
90 dB  
80 dB  
86 dB  
103 dB  
105 dB  
103 dB  
–89 dBu, (ref. +4 dBu, Mic In to Main Out,  
24 channels and Main Mix levels at unity)  
Group Out:  
Aux Sends:  
Monitor Out:  
Matrix Out:  
Phones Out:  
Equivalent Input Noise (E.I.N.), 20 Hz to 20 kHz Bandwidth,  
150Ω source impedance  
–129.5 dBu @ +60 dB gain  
Mic Output Noise:  
Line Input to:  
Main Out:  
Direct Output: –100 dBu (minimum gain)  
70 dB  
60 dB  
66 dB  
83 dB  
85 dB  
83 dB  
Group Out:  
Aux Sends:  
Monitor Out:  
Matrix Out:  
Phones Out:  
Residual Output Noise:  
Main Out: –100 dBu (Channel and Main Mix levels off)  
Main Out:  
32•4: –83 dBu (32 channels and Main Mix  
levels at unity)  
24•4: –85 dBu (24 channels and Main Mix  
levels at unity)  
Stereo Return to:  
Main Out:  
53 dB  
43 dB  
49 dB  
66 dB  
68 dB  
66 dB  
Group Out:  
Common Mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR)  
Mic In: >70 dB @ 1 kHz, Gain @ maximum  
Aux Sends:  
Monitor Out:  
Matrix Out:  
Phones Out:  
Crosstalk  
Adjacent Inputs: < –95 dB @ 1 kHz  
Input to Output: < –85 dB @ 1 kHz  
Input Impedance  
Mic Input:  
3 kΩ, balanced  
Input Gain Control Range  
Mic In: 0 dB to +60 dB  
Line In: –20 dB to + 40 dB, mono channels  
Mono Channel Line Input: 34 kΩ balanced  
Stereo Returns:  
Talkback Mic:  
20 kΩ balanced  
1 kΩ balanced  
Output Impedance  
Main Out:  
Phantom Power  
100 Ω balanced, XLR outputs;  
+48 VDC  
300 Ω TRS outputs  
300 Ω  
300 Ω  
300 Ω  
300 Ω  
Direct Out:  
Group Out:  
Monitor Out:  
Matrix Out:  
Aux Sends:  
Phones Out:  
Equalization  
Mono Channel EQ:  
High:  
15 dB @ 12 kHz  
High Mid: 15 dB, sweepable from 400 Hz to 8 kHz  
Low Mid: 15 dB, sweepable from 100 Hz to 2 kHz  
Low:  
300 Ω  
25 Ω  
15 dB @ 80 Hz  
Stereo Channel (Aux Input) EQ:  
High:  
15 dB @ 12 kHz  
High Mid: 15 dB @ 2.5 kHz  
Low Mid: 15 dB @ 400 Hz  
Low:  
15 dB @ 80 Hz  
ꢁ0  
ONYX 4•Bus  
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Channel Level LED (Sensitivity)  
Physical Dimensions and Weight  
0 LED = 0 dBu (normal operating level)  
Onyx 24•4  
Height:  
Width:  
Depth:  
Weight:  
7.3 in/185 mm  
31.2 in/792 mm  
21.9 in/555 mm  
39.5 lb/17.9 kg  
VU Meters  
Main Left and Right, Compressor Input, 12 segments:  
Clip (+20), +15, +10, +6, +3, 0, –2, –4, –7, –10, –20, –30  
0 LED = 0 dBu  
Compressor Gain Reduction, 12 segments:  
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15 dB  
Onyx 32•4  
Height:  
Width:  
Depth:  
Weight:  
7.3 in/185 mm  
39.8 in/1011 mm  
21.9 in/555 mm  
48.0 lb/21.8 kg  
AC Power Requirements  
Power Consumption:  
Onyx 24•4  
Onyx 32•4  
100 watts  
120 watts  
LOUD Technologies Inc. is always striving to improve our prod-  
ucts by incorporating new and improved materials, components,  
and manufacturing methods. Therefore, we reserve the right to  
change these specifications at any time without notice.  
Universal AC Power Supply:  
100 VAC – 240 VAC, 50-60 Hz  
“Mackie.”, “Onyx,” and the “Running Man” are registered  
trademarks of LOUD Technologies Inc. All other brand names  
mentioned are trademarks or registered trademarks of their  
respective holders, and are hereby acknowledged.  
©2006-2009 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved.  
Onyx 4•Bus Dimensions  
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ꢁ1  
Owner’s Manual  
)/$.ꢀ_d%'&''ꢀcc  
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Onyx 4•Bus Block Diagram  
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ꢁꢀ  
ONYX 4•Bus  
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-ONO ,EVEL  
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!SSIGN SWITCH  
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/UT  
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-UTE  
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ꢁꢁ  
Owner’s Manual  
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Onyx 4•Bus Gain Structure Diagram  
ꢁ4  
ONYX 4•Bus  
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Mackie Limited Warranty  
Please keep your sales receipt in a safe place.  
This Limited Product Warranty (“Product Warranty”) is provided by LOUD Technologies Inc. (“LOUD”)  
reseller or dealer. The Product Warranty will not extend to anyone other than the original purchaser of  
the product (hereinafter, “Customer,” “you” or “your”).  
For products purchased outside the U.S. or Canada, please visit www.mackie.com/warranty to find  
contact information for your local distributor, and information on any warranty coverage provided by the  
distributor in your local market.  
LOUD warrants to Customer that the product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship  
under normal use during the Warranty Period. If the product fails to conform to the warranty then LOUD  
or its authorized service representative will at its option, either repair or replace any such nonconforming  
product, provided that Customer gives notice of the noncompliance within the Warranty Period to the  
Company at: www.mackie.com/support or by calling LOUD technical support at 1.800.898.3211 (toll-  
free in the U.S. and Canada) during normal business hours Pacific Time, excluding weekends or LOUD  
holidays. Please retain the original dated sales receipt as evidence of the date of purchase. You will need it  
to obtain any warranty service.  
For full terms and conditions, as well as the specific duration of the Warranty for this product, please visit  
www.mackie.com/warranty.  
The Product Warranty, together with your invoice or receipt, and the terms and conditions located  
at www.mackie.com/warranty constitutes the entire agreement, and supersedes any and all prior  
agreements between LOUD and Customer related to the subject matter hereof. No amendment,  
modification or waiver of any of the provisions of this Product Warranty will be valid unless set forth in a  
written instrument signed by the party to be bound thereby.  
ꢁ5  
Owner’s Manual  
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16220 Wood-Red Road NE • Woodinville, WA 98072 • USA  
United States and Canada: 800.898.3211  
Europe, Asia, Central and South America: 425.487.4333  
Middle East and Africa: 31.20.654.4000  
Fax: 425.487.4337 • www.mackie.com  
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