Every decent studio, live sound, or broadcast system begins with the right hardware. In many instances, the mixer is the brain of the entire operation, collecting, amplifying, tone-shaping, volume balancing, and outputting various audio signals. The Yamaha MG series of analog mixers brings versatility and affordability to the forefront. Check out this review of the Yamaha MG10XU 10-channel mixer.
The Yamaha MG10XU Is a Compact Mixer Built for You
The whole range of Yamaha MG mixers has something for everyone. It starts with the standard MG boards, upgrades to the MGX line (where “X” stands for the inclusion of onboard effects), and finally reaches the MGXU series (effects and USB connectivity).
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All models and trims included, Yamaha MG mixers run anywhere from six to 20 channels, but they all have one thing in common: they’re extremely compact. The MG10XU is more than capable of handling a variety of audio signals (10 channels), and its largest dimension is still under 12″ — plus, it weighs under five pounds. It’s a perfect desktop mixer for live streamers, especially with the addition of USB, which also makes it suitable for home recording. The MG10XU can also support small live sound productions with its portable and powerful layout.
What’s Included (Mixer Specs)?
- 10 channels (four mono, three stereo)
- Four XLR inputs w/ D-PRE preamps
- Maximum four mic inputs or 10 line inputs
- One-knob compression (channels 1 & 2)
- Three-band EQ on mono channels
- 24 digital effects
- USB output
- Stereo XLR, stereo 1/4″ monitor, and headphone outputs
- 2.8″ H, 9.6″ W, 11.6″ D
- 4.63 pounds
Yamaha MG10XU Review
Construction & Interface
The Yamaha MG10XU mixer sports an all-metal chassis, so there’s virtually no risk of damage to the body of the device itself. As far as the layout goes, every single feature of the mixer is on the top panel, including all I/O with the exception of USB. You’ll notice right away that the MG10XU ditches faders for level knobs instead, which helps keep the form compact. Everything is clearly labeled and legible at a glance, so it’s very easy to get acquainted with this mixer after spending little time with it at all.
Choose Between 24 Digital Effects
One of the coolest features that this compact, super affordable mixer includes is 24 digital effects. These cater especially to live sound engineers and broadcasters/streamers who want to spice up signals for their audience. Effects include reverbs, delays, phaser, flanger, pitch-shifting, “radio voice,” chorus, distortion, and more.
The engine is based on Yamaha’s own SPX multi-effects processor, so the sound quality is definitely there.
Is It Portable & Durable?
100%. It’s actually kind of shocking just how small and lightweight this mixer is, which is impressive. With the right pair of portable speakers, the MG10XU could serve as the hub for a gigging PA system. For desktop installations it’s fantastic as well, providing ample I/O and effects in a footprint that doesn’t take up much space at all. There’s little question about durability, but it’s always a good idea to treat your equipment well barring any significant accidents.
Is the Yamaha MG10XU a Good Studio Mixer?
With a USB connection and bundled Cubase software, Yamaha touts the MG10XU’s flexibility as a studio mixer, in addition to its strengths as a broadcast or live sound board.
Users can take advantage of 24-bit/192 kHz recording quality, as well as four microphone preamps. It might also be fun to experiment with printing digital effects, compression, and EQ to see how much you can shape a sound on its way in before any post mixing.
Why You Should Consider Checking Out a Yamaha MG10XU Mixer
The Yamaha MG10XU mixer is a phenomenal entry-level value. There’s so much it can pull off for an unbeatable price and a footprint that doesn’t feel like you have to invest in new furniture just to house it. Should you have a need for a mixer, whether it’s for live sound reinforcement, streaming/broadcasting, or studio recording, the Yamaha MG line deserves a second look.
