I've wondered the same thing. However, I think the only thing that might mess with the sound quality is using any type of cheap amplification that it might have built in. If you turn it down to the point where it is being powered by other sources and just routed through, it shouldn't be a problem. That's just my opinion.

Rob

I thought it was passive? That means no amp and minimal coloration if I'm correct. I was also wondering the same thing. Mackie also just announced the Big knob, same concept, and as far as I can tell, same functionality, except for the extra headphone feed. List is $385

mitz

You've gotta be kidding on the name of the Mackie "unit" - the "Big Knob"!! That is a really goofy name for sure.

Rob

if its just a volume control you need there's this [="http://www.nhtpro.com/2004/products/product_detail.asp?ProductLineID=1&ProductID=6"]NHT[/]="http://www.nhtpro.c…"]NHT[/]

Actually Mackie has come out with a few nice looking pieces at NAMM

[[url=http://="http://namm.harmony…"]Big Knob[/]="http://namm.harmony…"]Big Knob[/]

[[url=http://[/URL]="http://namm.harmony…"]Onyx 8000R 8 Channel Pre[/]="http://namm.harmony…"]Onyx 8000R 8 Channel Pre[/]