Yamaha EMX5 12-input, 1260 watts Dual 630W Powered Mixer

The Yamaha EMX5 is a highly capable and versatile 12-input powered mixer designed for musicians, bands, public speakers, and mobile DJs who need a powerful, all-in-one solution for sound reinforcement. It combines a multi-channel mixer, a high-efficiency power amplifier, and a comprehensive digital effects processor in a robust, portable chassis.

Here's a detailed breakdown of its key features and capabilities:

Power and Amplifier:

• Dual 630W (1260W total) Class-D Amplifier: The EMX5 features a built-in, high-efficiency Class-D power amplifier.

  • It delivers 630W + 630W into 4 ohms (at 1kHz, THD+N < 10%, CEA2006 rating) for a total of 1260 watts of dynamic power.

  • It also provides 500W + 500W into 4 ohms (at 1kHz, THD+N < 1%, CEA2006 rating) for continuous, high-fidelity power.

  • For 8-ohm speakers, it delivers 460W + 460W (THD+N < 10%) or 370W + 370W (THD+N < 1%).

• High Efficiency & Lightweight: The Class-D design allows for significant power output while keeping the unit surprisingly lightweight (approx. 9.5 kg / 20.9 lbs) and efficient in terms of power consumption.

• Protection Circuitry: Equipped with overload protection functions (overheat, overcurrent, DC-fault) to ensure reliability and prolong component life.

Mixing Channels & Inputs:

• 12 Input Channels:

  • 8 Mono Mic/Line Channels: These are the primary input channels.

    • Channels 1-4 feature combo XLR/1/4" jacks with switchable 30dB PADs for high-output sources.

    • Channels 5-8 feature XLR inputs and separate 1/4" inputs.

  • 4 Stereo Line Channels:

    • Channels 5/6 and 7/8 also include 1/4" TRS inputs for stereo line-level devices.

    • Channels 9/10 include XLR, 1/4" TRS, and RCA stereo inputs.

    • Channels 11/12 include XLR, RCA, and a 3.5mm stereo mini-jack input for connecting portable music players.

• Hi-Z Input (Channel 4): A dedicated Hi-Z switch on channel 4 allows direct connection of instruments like electric guitars or basses without needing a separate DI box.

• 48V Phantom Power: Available on all 8 XLR microphone inputs to power condenser microphones.

• High-Pass Filters (Channels 1-3): 80 Hz, -12 dB/octave HPF to reduce unwanted low-frequency rumble or proximity effect from microphones.

EQ and Dynamics:

• 3-Band EQ per Channel: Each of the 12 input channels has independent High (10kHz shelving), Mid (2.5kHz peaking), and Low (100Hz shelving) EQ controls for precise tonal shaping.

• 1-Knob Compressor (Channels 1-4): Yamaha's popular 1-knob compressor feature on the first four channels simplifies dynamics control for vocals and instruments. A single knob adjusts multiple compression parameters simultaneously (threshold, ratio, and output gain), making it very user-friendly.

• 1-Knob Master EQ: A unique feature on the main output that allows you to quickly optimize the overall sound for different applications with a single control. Settings typically include "Speech," "Music," and sometimes "Bass Boost."

Effects and DSP:

• Yamaha SPX Digital Effects: Features a powerful DSP section with a total of 24 different high-quality SPX effects, including various reverbs (hall, plate, room), delays (echo, chorus), phaser, flanger, tremolo, pitch change, distortion, and more. Effects can be applied to individual channels via aux sends.

• Feedback Suppressor: Utilizes Yamaha's unique digital technology to automatically detect and eliminate unwanted feedback with the simple push of a button. It employs a 7-band notch filter for effective feedback control.

• Aux Sends: Two Aux sends are available:

  • Aux 1 Send: Can be used for a dedicated monitor mix or external effects.

  • Aux 2 Send: Primarily for internal effects processing, but can also be used for monitoring.

Outputs and Monitoring:

• Speaker Outputs: Two speakON/1/4" combo jacks for connecting passive loudspeakers (Channels A & B).

• Stereo Out (Line Level): Balanced 1/4" TRS outputs for connecting to external powered speakers, an additional power amplifier, or an external recorder.

• Rec Out (RCA): Unbalanced stereo RCA outputs for connecting to a recording device.

• Footswitch Input: Allows for remote control of the effects mute on/off.

Design & Portability:

• Robust & Portable Design: Features a rugged, impact-resistant, powder-coated metal chassis designed for extended operation and road use.

• Integrated Handles: Large handles on the front and back of the enclosure make it easy to transport and help protect knobs and terminals from impact.

• Versatile Placement: Can be used on a tabletop, on the floor as a wedge, or rack-mounted with an optional kit (RK-EMX7).

• Universal Power Supply: Operates on 100-240V AC, 50/60 Hz, ensuring worry-free operation worldwide.

Overall:The Yamaha EMX5 is an excellent choice for those seeking a highly reliable, powerful, and user-friendly all-in-one PA solution. Its comprehensive input section, high-quality effects, intelligent DSP features (like 1-knob compressors and feedback suppression), and robust power amplifier make it suitable for a wide array of live sound applications where ease of use and professional results are paramount.