Mackie Onyx Blackbird FireWire Recording Interface

No longer available at zZounds
Use this interface's 8 Onyx preamps for pristine sound in the studio, or add it to your stage setup as an 8-channel preamp rack.

Mackie's Onyx Blackbird Premium 16x16 FireWire Recording Interface delivers industry-leading recording quality via eight boutique-quality Onyx preamps and high-end 24-bit/96kHz conversion in a sleek rackmount design. True analog hardware monitoring, in both mono and stereo, provide simple zero-latency recording, while onboard word clock and 8x8 ADAT I/O allow for ultimate expandability. Two front panel Super Channels provide quick access to crucial recording tools and the powerful Blackbird Control DSP Matrix Mixer allows for quick mix creation and routing of any input to any output. Plus, since it works as a standalone 8-channel preamp rack, Blackbird offers a single box solution ready for integration into your studio or digital live setup.

See the Blackbird in action with this video from Mackie:


Features

- Eight boutique-quality Onyx mic preamps with class-leading fidelity and dynamic range
- High-headroom design with ultra-low noise and distortion
- Ideal eight input standalone preamp unit with up to 96kHz ADAT (S/MUX II) outputs
- 48V phantom power on all inputs for use with condenser microphones
- Studio monitor, main and alternative outputs with independent level control and source selection
- Two headphone outputs with independent level control and source selection
- Easily aggregate up to four units on Mac or PC
- Built-Like-A-Tank sleek and ergonomic chassis design
- High-end Cirrus Logic AD/DA converters with 114dB dynamic range (A-weighted)
- Includes free read more download of Tracktion software

Professional 16x16 24-bit/96kHz recording/playback:
- Flexible FireWire routing
- 8x8 ADAT I/O for ultimate expandability
- Onboard word clock I/O for studio and live integration
- Acclaimed JetPLL jitter elimination technology

Compatible with most major DAWs:
- Logic
- Sonar
- Cubase
- Ableton Live
- Final Cut Pro
- ...and more

Powerful and flexible Super Channels:
- Front panel connectivity for easy access
- True analog hardware monitoring of inputs, in mono or stereo, for easy zero-latency recording
- 80Hz low-cut switches
- Dedicated 48V phantom power
- Built-in DI for direct connection of guitars, bass, etc.
- Inserts for outboard processing gear

Includes powerful Blackbird Control DSP Matrix Mixer:
- Route any input to any output
- Zero-latency tracking of all inputs
- Quickly set up independent mixes for headphones and more
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For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Phone: 800-898-3211
Email: support@mackie.com
Web: https://mackie.com/en/support/contact

Reviewers gave this product an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars. (9 ratings)
Submitted December 21, 2010 by a customer from hotmail.com

Mackie Onyx Blackbird FW Customer Review

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
Sound
The blackbird works very well in seamlessly recording elements of a blues-based rock and roll outfit as well as serving as a simple interface for getting ideas down into Logic Pro 9.
Features
Very much appreciate "super channels" 1 & 2 at front of unit with attendant Hi Z and low cut features. I don't use the Blackbird controller/mixer software as I run directly into Logic but I suppose it might be useful to somebody doing something other than what I use it for.
Ease of Use
Simple as plug and play to make multitrack recordings, read close-mic'd live drums, in Logic Pro 9. It is nice to be able to simultaneous recording 8 tracks into 8 separate strips in Logic for later manipulation.
Quality
Excellent sound. I don't have experience with the raved about preamps, eg, Neve, classic Telefunken, etc, but I have experience building/modifying tube amps and I know what sounds good. The Onyx preamps thru firewire definitely are a step above generic mixer/USB interfaces. There is warmth and detail I didn't hear using other means.
Value
Excellent value for the buck. This will especially be useful to those doing DAW recording and interested in high quality, simultaneous multichannel recording into multichannel DAW provided your DAW is compatible- works great with Logic. Read the online manual and you will get a sense of the versatility.
Manufacturer Support
No experience yet.

Musical Background:

Active Musician

Musical Style:

Rock
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No longer available at zZounds

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