I guess my first question to you would be why change? Both units offer 24-bit 96kHz capabilities. Both units are good for 16 tracks worth of tracking (actually, the Mackie allows for 18 but you need to utilize 2 of those for monitor playback I believe). In its stock configuration, the Mackie equalizer's are not wired for tracking but only for mix down. So only in the situation of doing live sound and on location would there be an advantage to the Mackie where you can utilize the mixer for live PA feed during simultaneous 16 track tracking into/through your laptop, to an external hard disk drive. Plus, it's a lot more fun playing with all those knobs and dials instead of chasing a mouse all over your tabletop.

Eeeek! A mouse!
Ms. Remy Ann David

the reason i think i more or less would like it is
i am running my studio like this 16 channels into a berhinger mx 3242 board in xlr then out 1/4 inch into my berhingers ada 8000 witch have what i would think are pretty crapy preamps
so i would like to use the onyx premaps if there any good also not have to go to 1/4 inch just xlr to my computer i relize that its not that much better then my system but i like the hands on straght to the computer
i just want to know how much i may lose or gain if changing over

I actually like the idea, concept, of all of these new FireWire enabled mixers such as the 1640. I'm an old-fashioned engineer and I like all of the knobs and dials along with its versatility in signal routing and mixing.

So I would say, yeah, go for the 1640. You'll get superior microphone preamps and if you should so desire equalization to FireWire to your computer. There is information out there on how this can be accomplished without voiding the Mackie warranty, if you should so desire to add equalization while tracking. Something I personally like to do because I'm not afraid of what I can't undo. Particularly because I don't do anything to make anything sound horrible.

I'm having a horrendously good time.
Ms. Remy Ann David

thanx so much for all your input
so the eq is pree fader so i wont get my eq mix with the 1640 in my computer
is there anyway u can set me in the right direction to be able to use the perkins eq in my tracking
like web site or what ever u know

Try searching the Recording.org database as I believe that modification to the 1640 was mentioned here? But yes, currently the 1640 only offers pre-fader microphone preamp tracking. You may also want to contact Mackie about that modification.

Sorry I can't be of more help regarding the modification.
Ms. Remy Ann David

Mackies have always been pretty good at offering a solder point to change things pre / post...

When my vacation is over on Friday I'll take a look at one of the Onyx's I've got and see what it can do for you.

Bump the post then, lest I forget...

damon_drunk, I could tell you to get bent. Come to think of it, I will tell you to get bent.

In fact, if he wasn't married with children, I'd like to get bent.
Ms. Remy Ann David

Remy, you are too kind.

:oops:

I found a link for you that shows the pre/post eq modification step by step.
This is for the 1620, but I'd assume that it is similar to the other models:

(Dead Link Removed)

Here's some other info about it:

(Dead Link Removed)

bump