Yamaha MG164 16-Channel Mixer

Feature:
It has most of the features one would need in a small project studio. The group out is perfect for 2x2 audio interfaces, and if you have an 8x8, the inserts can be used as direct outs. The only thing is that the AUX return isn't sent to the group outs, so if you want to route the return to the group outputs, you must use a channel as a return instead of the dedicated returns. Also, what's cool is that there are AUX send controls on the return section, so you can apply effects to the AUX return if you are using it as an extra stereo input. The side trim doubles as rack ears too, which is nice considering most mixers require you to shell out extra bucks for that. The VU meter also is accurate and is responsive. One more thing, there is only a single button to provide phantom power to the mic inputs, which may be a problem depending on the variety of mics you use. They say your dynamics should be okay with phantom power, but I would prefer not doing that. Don't even think of using a ribbon mic with it on either as I can't speak of the quality of power sent from the mixer.

Quality:
In terms of looks, this baby looks damn good. You'll be proud to display it in your studio, or stage if that's your thing. As usual, Yamaha comes through with some good looks. The faders feel wonderful, with a precise and smooth action that gives you confidence when moving them about. All the knobs feel good the same way. The buttons are firm, give reassuring, solid clicks. Some of the them even light up all fancy, in the same style as their bigger, expensive digital multitrack units. The only complaint that I could think of is that the underlying circuit board isn't as attached to the case as I would like. Pushing down on the upperleft matrix of knobs, the circuit board gives a slightly, but this doesn't affect sound quality or anything. Despite Yamaha's breadth of products it offers, I've found all of them to be very satisfying and of high quality. I own several Yamaha products, and I am extremely pleased with all of them. Yamaha is definitly a brand I would trust, and their attention to detail is usually evident in their products, this mixer being no exception.

Value:
As a project studio owner with a limited budget, it's very tempting to go for feature-for-the-money mixers like Behringer for example. Now, granted, their products aren't entirely crap, but sound quality is more important. I think for a budget mixer, this one provides the best compromise between features and quality than any other mixer in this price range. It's incredibly cheap too.

Desirability:
Good deal, although I wish it had sweepable mids. Good design, lots of connectivity, flexibilty, and good looks. Aluminum side trim is also nice.

Sound:
The sound is very clear and accurate. The highs are especially detailed compared with my old mixer. It seems to offer a good quality signal path, and I find the sound to be relatively uncolored. Definitely a leap in terms of sound quality when compared to Behringer budget mixers. The mixer itself is really quiet even when the gain is at maximum. The high and low shelving EQ's sound fine, but the fixed mids are more difficult to utilize compared to a parametric mid. It sounds fine if used sparingly. The AUX sends are impedance-balanced, which is nice, but the returns are unbalanced, but that shouldn't be a problem unless you got crazy cable runs. The ouputs have a lot of gain too. I don't really use the preamps, so I can't speak of their quality.

Support:
I have only had to deal with support once, and that was for a different product. I had bought a demo model of their AN200 synthesizer, and wanted to get the CD that comes with the boxed units. I emailed them, and they promptly mailed me the CD for free. Based on that experience, I do respect their support, but doubt I'll need it in the future with their products. The manual is nice, informative, and even includes a schematic.

Overall:
For me, I have a small setup, only a few hardware samplers, drum machines, and synthesizers. I have a 2x2 interface because I only need to record a few tracks at a time. I do most of my effects on the computer, so I don't need a lot of AUX sends. I think people with similar needs will find this mixer a valuable tool for gettin your tracks down with minimal fuss, flexibilty, and good sound quality. It doesn't have a ton of features like other mixers, but enough to easily accomplish most of what you could think of. Plus, I trust Yamaha more than most of the other budget mixer brands.

Feature:
Plenty of features, and a good amount of control.

Quality:
Very well built, sturdy, and feels like it could take a beating.

Value:
This is easily the best mixer in it's price range

Sound:
Overall the sound quality is great considering how low cost this mixer is. My only complaint is that is seems like the preamps are not all that powerfull, but aside from that, this mixer just takes a little bit of getting used to.

Overall:
This is a good unit. Need a cheap mixer, buy this, DO NOT buy one of those crappy Euroracks that everyone always complains about.