Yamaha MG16X CV Mixer

Master of Its Class!

Yamaha has always aimed to offer its customers the purest, most uncolored sound possible when developing audio equipment, leaving the mixing engineer all the creative freedom they need. While some coloration might sometimes sound appealing, it imposes a clear direction on the mix that can severely limit the producer’s creativity. Naturally, the MG series was developed strictly according to this Yamaha philosophy. It follows the belief that sound should above all be pure and transparent like a mountain stream. That’s why these consoles deliver clarity in their sound that has never been seen before in this class.

D-PRE (Discrete Class-A Microphone Preamps)

Preamps are the starting point for great sound. If their quality isn’t up to par, no great mix can be achieved, no matter how hard the engineer tries. In other words: this is where the foundation for the mix is laid, or where a preliminary decision is made about how good it can ultimately sound. The MG series mixers feature Yamaha’s studio-grade, discretely designed Class-A preamps. They use an inverted Darlington circuit that, thanks to a so-called dual-transistor cascade, delivers more power at lower impedance. D-PRE amps provide fat, natural-sounding bass and silky highs with extremely low distortion. Thanks to their wide, very balanced frequency response, these preamps handle all kinds of signal sources without overemphasizing any frequency range. This clean sonic foundation saves you time and effort because extensive EQ adjustments or other sound treatments to fix the mix become unnecessary.

Operational Amplifiers for Top-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. While many other operational amplifiers optimize circuit design and efficiency—both positive traits—Yamaha prioritizes sound quality, so off-the-shelf chips were not an option. The MG01 operational amplifiers have redesigned circuits where internal components and wiring are perfectly matched. Of course, premium materials in their purest form, such as wafers made from ultra-pure silicon and copper wires, are used, so every single chip component contributes to outstanding resolution.

Switchable Phantom Power and PAD Switch

Thanks to switchable phantom power, MG series consoles allow the connection of condenser microphones with all their advantages over dynamic mics, including extended frequency response, much higher dynamics, and better sound quality. The input channels with PAD switches accept both mic and line level signals. The PAD button attenuates high-level input signals, for example, mic’d instruments during a concert that might otherwise cause distortion and seriously damage the mix.

Our Mixer. Your Sound.

Do you have a favorite song where the guitar sounds perfect without EQ or the vocals need no processing? Probably not. Yamaha mixers are known for their linear playback and sonic purity, but usually, besides perfectly recorded instruments or vocals, you need a little more to achieve a truly professional-sounding mix. Many tools originally from Yamaha’s high-end consoles are now found in the MG series. These consoles have everything you need to create a distinct, professional-quality sound.

1-Knob Compressors

Compression plays a key role in almost every studio production or live sound setup. By skillfully controlling the dynamics of audio signals with a compressor, you can create basslines with more punch, tighter snares, more present vocals, or thicker live guitar walls. However, it can take countless hours to master even simply designed hardware compressors and fully exploit their potential. Yamaha’s innovative "1 Knob" compressors allow you to optimally set the compressor with just one single control knob.

EQ and High-Pass Filter

There’s nothing better than a reliable equalizer when you want to finely shape your sound. The MG series also benefits here from Yamaha’s unparalleled experience in building audio devices. All mono channels feature excellent 3-band equalizers for precise sound control. Additional high-pass filters allow you to eliminate unwanted footstep noise and other low-frequency disturbances, making the mix noticeably clearer and cleaner.

AUX / Effects Sends / Groups

The MG series mixers offer AUX sends to expand your PA or studio setup. These can be used to add extra effects, route outputs to external recording devices, or feed a monitoring system. The main mix also has its own send controls. The MG06 / 06X and MG10 / 10X / 10XU models only have a single stereo mix bus. All other models additionally feature one or two stereo group buses with corresponding outputs for convenient channel grouping. Next to all channel faders, you’ll find switches for clear group assignment.

Numerous Input and Output Connections

All models feature high-quality, balanced Neutrik XLR connectors on the mono channels. The stereo channels also have XLR jacks. The mono inputs are combo jacks accepting both MIC and LINE level. Two of the stereo inputs have one XLR and two jack connectors. The XLR accepts MIC level signals, while the two jacks are designed for LINE level. You can feed either mono or stereo line signals (except on the 10-channel model). The other two stereo channels vary by model: the 20-channel model’s XLR accepts MIC level, while two RCA connectors handle mono or stereo LINE signals. The 16- and 12-channel models have two jack inputs for stereo LINE signals. Additionally, each stereo channel has 2TR RCA jacks acting as independent inputs for external sources like CD players. The 10-channel model has an extra stereo channel with a pair of jack connectors for LINE signals. On XU models, any signal coming through the USB port can be assigned to one of the stereo channels. Besides the main stereo outputs (XLR L/R, jack L/R), the MG series consoles have numerous output connectors for groups (jack format), AUX/FX (jack format), monitor (jack format L/R), and headphones (stereo jack). The main outputs can be used for various tasks like monitoring or mastering.

LED Level Meter

The MG series’ LED level meters allow quick and precise reading of output levels.

Internal SPX Digital Effects

Effects add polish and professionalism to any mix, with or without music. The MG-X/-XU models come equipped with Yamaha’s globally acclaimed digital SPX multi-effect processor, offering 24 editable, top-tier digital effects perfect for enhancing your mix. Whether adding just the right amount of depth to a speech or breathing fresh life into a live concert, the excellent reverb and delay effects can realistically and naturally improve the mix’s spatial impression.

Built to Last

At concerts, recording sessions, and even permanent installations, your console can face a variety of external influences and hazards. It might be very humid, the power supply unstable, and on the road, many stresses can lead to costly, time-consuming repairs and reduce the device’s lifespan. The newly developed MG series places special emphasis on durability, ensuring these consoles deliver peak performance for many years.

Metal Housing

The MG series is built to last, featuring a solid, powder-coated metal housing of outstanding build quality. Its shape optimally supports internal convection cooling, while the power supply is cleanly separated from the analog circuits inside, preventing noise and positively affecting component lifespan. Furthermore, forces like pressure or tension on the console controls don’t directly impact the circuit board or electronic components as in many other mixers, but are absorbed by the sturdy housing, greatly enhancing the MG series’ reliability and longevity.

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 places with unstable mains voltage. The internal power supply also simplifies rack mounting for permanent installations, as no bulky power adapter or additional peripherals are needed. (* MG12 / 16 / 20 / 12X / 16X / 12XU / 16XU / 20XU)

Rack Mount Kit Included

The 16- and 20-channel MG series models come with rack ears, allowing easy placement on a table or straightforward rack mounting. This makes the consoles ideal for mobile applications and permanent installations. The extremely robust yet handy design ensures smooth, stable positioning, minimizing setup time. *For the MG12 and MG12XU models, the optional "RK-MG12" rack mount kit is available.

XLR Connection

The main stereo mix outputs use XLR connectors. These professional plugs lock securely to prevent accidental disconnection and guarantee stable signal transmission even under the toughest conditions.

The MG16X – A Master of Its Class!