Yamaha MG10 Mixer

D-PRE (Discrete Class-A Microphone Preamps)

Preamps are the starting point for a good sound. If their quality is lacking, no truly great mix can be achieved no matter how hard the engineer works. In other words: this is where the course for the mix is set, or at least a preliminary decision is made about how good it can sound. The MG-series consoles feature Yamaha's studio-grade, discrete Class-A preamps. They use an inverted Darlington configuration that, thanks to a dual-transistor cascade, delivers more drive at lower impedance. D-PRE amps provide fat, natural-sounding bass and silky highs with very low tendency to distort.

Thanks to their wide, very balanced frequency response, the preamps handle all conceivable signal sources without overemphasizing any frequency bands. This clean sonic foundation can save you significant time and effort because heavy EQ moves or further corrective processing to fix the mix are often unnecessary.

Operational Amplifiers for Highest-Quality Sound

The preamp determines sound quality, while the operational amplifier ICs are among the most important components of the preamp. The MG series features new, high-quality, custom-made MG01 operational amplifiers developed in close collaboration with the semiconductor manufacturer. Although many op amps are optimized for circuit design and efficiency, Yamaha prioritized sound quality — so an off-the-shelf chip was not an option.

The MG01 operational amplifiers feature redesigned circuits where internal components and wiring are perfectly matched. And of course very good materials in their purest form, such as wafers of high-purity silicon and copper wiring, were used so that every single component of the chip contributes to outstanding resolution.

Switchable Phantom Power and PAD Switches

Thanks to switchable phantom power, the MG consoles allow the use of condenser microphones with all their advantages over dynamic mics, including extended frequency response, much higher dynamics and improved sound quality. Input channels with PAD switches accept mic- and line-level sources. The PAD button attenuates high-level input signals — for example mic'd instruments during a concert that might otherwise cause overloads and seriously harm the mix.

One-Button Compressors

Compression plays a central role in almost every studio production or live sound setup. By cleverly limiting an audio signal's dynamics with a compressor, you can give basslines more punch, tighten snares, make vocals more present or create fatter live guitar walls. But it can take countless hours to master the complexity of even simply designed hardware compressors and use them to their full potential. Yamaha's innovative "One-Button" compressors let you optimally set the compressor with a single control.

EQ and High-Pass Filter

There is nothing better than a reliable equalizer when you need to make nuanced tonal adjustments. The MG series benefits from Yamaha's unparalleled experience in building audio gear. Every mono channel features excellent 3-band equalizers for precise control over the sound. Additional high-pass filters remove unwanted footfall and other low-frequency rumble, making the mix noticeably clearer and cleaner.

AUX / Effect Sends / Groups

To expand a sound-reinforcement or studio setup, the MG mixers provide AUX sends. These can be used to add external effects, route outputs to recording devices or feed a monitoring system. The mix sum has its own send controls. The MG06 / 06X and MG10 / 10XU models have only a single stereo mix bus. Other models feature one or two stereo group buses and corresponding outputs for convenient channel grouping. Next to the channel faders you will find switches for clear group assignment.

Numerous Input and Output Connectors

All models feature high-quality, balanced Neutrik XLR connectors on the mono channels. Stereo channels are also equipped with XLR jacks. The mono inputs are implemented as combo jacks and accept both MIC and LINE levels. Two of the stereo inputs have an XLR connector plus two jack connectors. The XLR accepts mic-level signals while the two jacks are designed for line level. Either mono or stereo line signals can be connected (except on the 10-channel model). The function of the other two stereo channels varies by model: on the 20-channel model the XLR accepts mic level while two phono connectors are designed for mono or stereo line signals.

On the 16- and 12-channel models, two jack connectors accept stereo line signals. Additionally, each stereo channel there has 2TR phono jacks that act as independent inputs for external sources such as CD players. The 10-channel model has an extra stereo channel with a pair of jack sockets for line signals. On the XU models, any signal arriving via the USB connection can be assigned to one of the stereo channels. In addition to the main stereo outputs (XLR L/R, jack L/R), the MG consoles include numerous output connectors for groups (jack format), AUX/FX (jack), monitor (jack L/R) and headphones (stereo jack). The main outputs can be used for tasks such as monitoring or mastering.

Metal Enclosure

The MG series was built to last and therefore features a solid, powder-coated metal enclosure of outstanding build quality. The shape optimally supports the internal convection-cooling system, while the power supply is cleanly separated from the analog circuits inside the device, which not only prevents unwanted noise but also positively affects component longevity. In addition, forces such as pressure or pull on the console controls are absorbed by the sturdy chassis rather than acting directly on the PCB or electronic components as is the case with many other consoles, which further enhances the MG series' reliability and lifespan.