Mackie unveiled a new set of great-looking firewire Mixers that integrate multi-channel 96k/24 bit recording into their popular Onyx mixers. We had a bit of hands-on time at AES and we were duly impressed.

If you’re familiar with the current Mackie line, then let me just hit some of he major feature upgrades.

1) Discrete Firewire Sends on every input channel. You can also switch the send pre or post the EQ – allowing you to record your EQ or use it just on monitors or headphones.

2) The ability to send the Master Mix as a Stereo Send over Firewire.

3) Phantom Power Switches are on individual channels instead of as an all-on or off switch.

4)Aux Sends that can be routed to firewire – allowing you to add DAW FX to channels while you mix!

5) And the BIG one – Compatible with Pro Tools M-powered!!!! Actually compatible with just about any DAW!

Needless to say – these mixers will be a GREAT addition to any project or home studio that’s looking for great pres, EQ’s, and even analog summing on a tighter budget.  Plus the ability to use these interfaces with practically any DAW is a great plus.

Keep an eye on these mixers, because they’re set to take “pro-sumer” gear to a whole different level.

Check out more about the mixers here.