Yamaha MG20XU Non Powered Mixer - 20 Imput - Effects -Occupies 12RU - Rack Kit Included

The Yamaha MG20XU is the largest and most feature-rich model in Yamaha's popular MG-series of analog mixing consoles. As indicated by the "XU" suffix, it integrates both high-quality built-in SPX digital effects and a multi-channel USB audio interface. This combination makes it an extremely versatile and powerful tool for a wide array of demanding applications, including large live bands, extensive studio recording, complex streaming setups, and large fixed installations.

It's designed to offer professional-grade audio performance, extensive input/output capabilities, and convenient digital integration, all within a robust and intuitive analog framework.

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

Channels and Inputs:

• Total Channels: 20 input channels.

• Mono Mic/Line Inputs (XLR/TRS Combo Jacks): 12 channels (Channels 1-12).

  • Equipped with Yamaha's highly acclaimed "D-PRE" studio-grade discrete Class-A microphone preamps. These preamps are renowned for their transparent, natural, and low-noise characteristics, utilizing an inverted Darlington circuit for superior performance.

  • +48V Phantom Power: Switchable, typically in groups (e.g., Channels 1-8 and 9-12), to power condenser microphones.

  • PAD Switch: 26 dB attenuation, essential for handling high-level input signals (e.g., from drums, loud guitar amps, or active DI boxes) to prevent input clipping.

  • High-Pass Filter (HPF): 80 Hz, 12 dB/octave, to eliminate unwanted low-frequency rumble and improve clarity in the mix.

  • 1-Knob Compressors: On channels 1-12, providing simple yet effective dynamics control with a single rotary knob. This is a very user-friendly feature for quickly optimizing vocal or instrument dynamics, even for less experienced operators.

• Mono/Stereo Line Inputs (TRS/RCA Jacks): 4 channels (Channels 13/14, 15/16, 17/18, and 19/20). These versatile channels can accept either a single mono XLR microphone input (with D-PRE preamp, HPF, PAD, but no 1-knob compressor) or stereo TRS line inputs.

• USB Return Channel: Channel 19/20 can also function as the stereo USB audio return channel from a computer.

• Note on Mic Inputs: While it has 20 total inputs, Yamaha specifies it has "Max. 16 Mic / 20 Line Inputs (12 mono + 4 stereo mic/line inputs)". This means 12 dedicated mono mic inputs and 4 stereo inputs that can also accept mic inputs via XLR, bringing the total potential mic inputs to 16.

Outputs:

• Stereo Out: 2 x XLR balanced outputs and 2 x TRS balanced outputs for connecting to main PA speakers or recording devices.

• Monitor Out: 2 x TRS outputs for connecting to stage monitors or control room monitors.

• Phones Out: 1 x 1/4" stereo headphone jack with level control.

• AUX Sends: 4 x TRS outputs (AUX 1-4). These are highly versatile for creating separate monitor mixes for musicians, or for sending signals to external effects processors (one of these is typically hardwired as the FX send for the internal effects).

• GROUP Out: 4 x TRS outputs (GROUP 1-4). This is a crucial feature for larger mixes, allowing for efficient sub-mixing of multiple channels (e.g., all drums, all vocals, or all guitars) to a single stereo or mono group, providing more comprehensive control over the overall mix.

Buses:

• 1 Stereo Bus

• 4 GROUP Buses (for flexible sub-mixing)

• 4 AUX Buses (for monitor mixes or external effects, one dedicated to internal FX)

Processing & Control:

• Channel EQ:

  • 3-band EQ (High, Mid, Low) with sweepable mid-frequency on mono channels (1-12): This offers precise tonal control for instruments and vocals, allowing you to cut or boost specific frequencies.

  • 2-band EQ (High, Low) on stereo channels (13-20).

• Faders: All input channels, group masters, and the stereo master feature smooth-action 60mm faders for tactile and accurate level control.

• High-Grade SPX Digital Effects: Built-in effects processor with 24 programs, including a wide variety of reverbs, delays, chorus, flanger, phaser, auto-wah, distortion, and more. These can be assigned to channels and controlled directly from the mixer.

• Peak LEDs & Level Meters: For visual monitoring of signal levels, helping to prevent clipping and ensure optimal gain staging.

USB Audio Interface:

• 2-in/2-out USB Audio Functions: This allows for direct connection to a computer (PC/Mac) for 2-channel recording and playback. This is ideal for capturing stereo mixes of live performances or for playing backing tracks from a computer through the mixer.

• High Resolution: Supports up to 24-bit / 192 kHz audio quality, making it suitable for quality home studio recording or streaming.

• iPad Compatibility: Works with iPad (2 or later) via the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit / Lightning to USB Camera Adapter.

• Bundled Software: Typically includes a download code for Steinberg Cubase AI DAW software for Mac and PC, offering a basic but capable recording environment.

Construction & Design:

• Metal Chassis: Rugged, durable, and impact-resistant all-metal chassis designed to withstand the rigors of frequent use and transport.

• Internal Universal Power Supply: Simplifies setup and reduces cable clutter by eliminating the need for an external power adapter.

• Rack-Mountable: An included rack-mount kit allows for convenient installation into a standard equipment rack.

• Color-Coded Controls: For easy visual identification and intuitive operation.

The Yamaha MG20XU is a top-tier analog mixer in its class, providing an excellent blend of extensive analog inputs, high-quality D-PRE preamps, versatile routing with group and aux buses, convenient built-in SPX effects, and a seamless 2x2 USB audio interface. This makes it a highly capable and reliable workhorse for a wide range of professional audio applications.