Complete your studio setup with Mackie Onyx Artist 1.2 Review
Mackie Onyx Artist 1.2: Studio-Quality Sound on a Budget
Mackie has long been a trusted name in the audio industry, known for producing reliable and affordable audio equipment. The Onyx Artist 1.2 is part of Mackie’s Onyx series, which has gained a reputation for delivering professional-quality sound in a compact and user-friendly design. This model is geared towards musicians, podcasters, and content creators who need a straightforward and high-quality audio interface for their home studios.
Build Quality and Design
The Mackie Onyx Artist 1.2 features a robust metal chassis that ensures durability and longevity. Its compact size and sleek design make it a perfect fit for any desktop setup. The interface has a simple and intuitive layout, with clearly labeled controls and a large volume knob for easy adjustments. The build quality feels solid, making it a reliable choice for both studio and mobile use.
Audio Quality
The audio quality of the Onyx Artist 1.2 is impressive for its price range. It supports 24-bit/192kHz resolution, providing clear and detailed sound reproduction. The high-quality converters ensure that recordings are accurate and true to the source, making it suitable for professional-grade audio production.
Preamps
The interface is equipped with one Onyx mic preamp, known for its high fidelity and low noise. This preamp delivers up to 48V of phantom power, allowing the use of condenser microphones. The sound is clean and transparent, capturing the nuances of vocals and instruments with precision.
Compatibility
The Onyx Artist 1.2 is compatible with both macOS and Windows operating systems and works seamlessly with all major DAWs, including Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Ableton Live, and Cubase. This broad compatibility ensures that users can integrate the interface into any recording setup with ease.
Latency Performance
Thanks to its optimized USB 2.0 connectivity and reliable drivers, the Onyx Artist 1.2 offers low-latency performance. This is crucial for real-time monitoring and recording, ensuring a smooth and responsive experience for musicians and content creators.
Bundled Software
Mackie includes a software bundle with the Onyx Artist 1.2, featuring Tracktion T7 DAW and the DAW Essentials Collection. These tools provide users with everything they need to start recording and producing music right away, offering a range of effects and instruments to enhance their projects.
Portability and Size
Weighing just under a pound and with a compact footprint, the Onyx Artist 1.2 is highly portable, making it ideal for mobile recording sessions. Its sturdy construction also ensures it can withstand the rigors of travel and on-the-go production.
Additional Features
The Onyx Artist 1.2 includes a zero-latency direct monitoring feature, allowing users to hear their input signal without delay. This is particularly useful for recording vocals and instruments, ensuring that performers can hear themselves clearly in real-time.
Input and Output Options
The interface offers a range of connectivity options, including one XLR/TRS combo input, one ¼” instrument input, and two ¼” TRS outputs. It is powered via USB, making it easy to connect to any computer without the need for an external power supply.
Price and Value for Money
Priced at around $99, the Onyx Artist 1.2 offers exceptional value for money. Its combination of high-quality preamps, superior audio conversion, and robust build make it a standout choice in its price range.
Pros:
- High-quality Onyx preamp
- Sturdy and compact design
- Excellent audio resolution
- Low-latency performance
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Limited to one mic preamp
- Basic input/output options
Conclusion
The Mackie Onyx Artist 1.2 is a fantastic audio interface for those looking for professional-quality sound on a budget. Its solid build, high-quality preamp, and user-friendly design make it an excellent choice for musicians, podcasters, and content creators. Despite its basic I/O options, it offers everything you need to get started with high-quality recording and production. Its blend of performance, portability, and value make it a top contender in the entry-level audio interface market.
Get The Mackie Onyx Artist 1.2 Here!
(Note: This review contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.)
Share this post!