Yamaha MG12 Mixer

D-PRE (Discrete Class-A Microphone Preamps)

Preamps are the starting point for great sound. If they lack quality, you won't achieve a truly great mix no matter how hard the engineer works. In other words: the foundation for the mix is set right here, and a preliminary decision is made about how good the final sound can be. The MG consoles feature Yamaha's studio-grade, discrete Class-A preamps. They use an inverted Darlington circuit which, thanks to a dual-transistor cascade, delivers more drive at lower impedance. D-PRE amps produce a rich, natural low end and silky highs with an extremely low tendency to distort.

Thanks to their wide and very balanced frequency response, the preamps handle all conceivable signal sources without overemphasizing any single frequency range. This clean sonic foundation saves you a lot of time and effort because large EQ moves or other corrective processing to fix the mix become unnecessary.

Operational Amplifiers for Highest-Quality Sound

The preamp determines sound quality, and the op-amp ICs are among the most important components in a preamp. The MG Series features new, high-quality, custom-designed MG01 operational amplifiers developed in close collaboration with the semiconductor manufacturer. While many op-amps optimize circuit design and efficiency—both positive traits—Yamaha prioritizes sound quality, so an off-the-shelf chip was not acceptable.

The MG01 op-amps incorporate redesigned circuits where internal components and wiring are perfectly matched. Of course, high-quality materials in their purest form—such as wafers of ultra-pure silicon and copper wiring—were used, so every single component of the chip contributes to outstanding resolution.

Switchable Phantom Power and PAD Switches

With switchable phantom power, MG consoles allow the use of condenser microphones with all their advantages over dynamics, including extended frequency response, much higher dynamic range and improved sound quality. The input channels with PAD switches accept both mic and line-level sources. The PAD button attenuates high-level inputs—such as miked instruments during a concert—that might otherwise cause clipping and seriously damage the mix.

One-Button Compressors

Compression plays a central role in almost every studio production or live sound setup. By smartly controlling the dynamics, compressors can give basslines more punch, tighten snares, bring vocals forward, or thicken live guitar walls. But mastering the complexity of even simple hardware compressors can take countless hours. Yamaha's innovative One-Button compressors let you dial in the compressor optimally with a single knob.

EQ and High-Pass Filter

There's nothing better than a reliable equalizer when you need to make nuanced tonal adjustments. The MG Series benefits from Yamaha's unrivaled experience in audio equipment here as well. All mono channels feature excellent 3-band equalizers for precise sonic control. Additional high-pass filters let you remove unwanted stage rumble and other low-frequency disturbances, making the mix noticeably clearer and cleaner.

AUX / Effect Sends / Groups

The MG mixers provide AUX sends to expand a PA or studio setup. These can be used to add external effects, route outputs to external recorders, or feed a monitoring system. The mix sum also has its own send controls. The MG06 / 06X and MG10 / 10XU models feature only a single stereo mix bus. Other models include one or two stereo group buses and corresponding outputs for convenient channel grouping. Next to each channel fader you'll find switches for clear group assignment.

Extensive Input and Output Connections

All models feature high-quality, balanced Neutrik XLR connectors on the mono channels. The stereo channels are also equipped with XLR sockets. The mono inputs are implemented as combo jacks and accept both mic and line levels. Two of the stereo inputs feature an XLR connector and two TRS jacks. 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 behavior of the other two stereo channels varies by model: on the 20-channel model the XLR accepts mic-level signals while two phono connectors are provided for mono or stereo line signals.

On the 16- and 12-channel models two jack inputs accept stereo line signals. Each stereo channel also includes 2TR phono jacks that act as independent inputs for external sources like CD players. The 10-channel model has an additional stereo channel with a pair of jacks for line signals. On the XU models, any signal entering via USB can be assigned to one of the stereo channels. In addition to the main stereo outputs (XLR L/R, TRS jack L/R), the MG Series offers numerous output connectors for groups (jack), 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 is built to last and therefore features a solid, powder-coated metal enclosure of outstanding build quality. The design supports effective internal convection cooling, while the power supply is cleanly separated from the analog circuits inside the unit, which not only prevents unwanted noise but also positively affects the lifespan of the components. In addition, forces such as pressure or tension on the control elements are absorbed by the sturdy chassis rather than being transmitted directly to the PCB or electronic components, which greatly benefits the reliability and longevity of the MG Series.

Internal Universal Power Supply

Thanks to the highly efficient internal universal power supply, you can use the MG Series anywhere in the world without worry—even in locations with wide mains voltage fluctuations. The internal supply also simplifies rack mounting for installations because no bulky power adapter or additional peripherals are required. (* MG12 / 16 / 20 / 12XU / 16XU / 20XU)