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Mackie Onyx Blackjack 2x2 USB Recording Interface
Brand | Mackie |
Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
Connectivity Technology | USB |
Number of Channels | 2 |
Item Weight | 2.3 Pounds |
About this item
- Two boutique-quality Onyx mic preamps with class-leading fidelity and dynamic range
- High-headroom design with ultra-low noise and distortion
- Includes Tracktion 3 Music Production Software
- High-end Cirrus Logic AD/DA converters with 114dB dynamic range (A-weighted)
- True analog hardware monitoring of inputs, in mono or stereo, for easy zero-latency recording
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This Item Mackie Onyx Blackjack 2x2 USB Recording Interface | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
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Price | — | $279.00$279.00 | $189.00$189.00 | -10% $178.36$178.36 List: $199.00 | $1,599.00$1,599.00 | -33% $59.95$59.95 List: $89.99 |
Delivery | — | Get it as soon as Monday, Mar 18 | Get it as soon as Monday, Mar 18 | Get it as soon as Monday, Mar 18 | Get it as soon as Tomorrow, Mar 14 | Get it as soon as Monday, Mar 18 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Value for money | — | 5.0 | 4.4 | 4.2 | — | 4.3 |
Sound quality | — | 4.3 | 4.5 | 4.5 | — | 4.3 |
Quality of material | — | 4.8 | — | 4.5 | — | 4.7 |
Easy to use | — | 3.6 | 4.0 | — | — | 4.6 |
Sold By | — | Kellards | Amazon.com | Instrumentpro | Kellards | Amazon.com |
number of channels | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 40 | 2 |
hardware interface | usb | usb | usb2.0 | headphone | — | usb2.0 |
connectivity tech | USB | USB | USB | USB | USB | USB |
model year | — | — | 2021 | 2021 | 2021 | — |
style | Recording Interface | Portable | 2-in/2-out | Single | Recorder | Artist 1-2 |
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Product information
Item Weight | 2.3 pounds |
---|---|
Product Dimensions | 6.4 x 9.5 x 5 inches |
ASIN | B003VZG550 |
Item model number | Onyx Blackjack |
Customer Reviews |
3.8 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #122,561 in Musical Instruments (See Top 100 in Musical Instruments) #991 in Computer Recording Audio Interfaces |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | June 12, 2007 |
Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
Hardware Interface | USB |
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Product Description
Let's face it. If you could fit one of our flagship Onyx 1640i consoles into your workspace and budget, you probably would do it. But that shouldn't mean you have to settle for the cheapest, plastic 2x2 interface available. We've spent serious time and research creating the Onyx Blackjack Premium USB Recording Interface. It delivers the same proven Onyx preamps as our other flagship Onyx products in an ultra-compact, ergonomic desktop design perfect for your home studio. Other professional features include high-end AD/DA converters, built-in DIs, phantom power and true analog hardware monitoring of inputs for hassle-free zero-latency tracking, in either mono or stereo. The USB connection provides bus-power to the Blackjack, eliminating the need for another cable run. Plus, it's Mac/PC friendly and ready for most major DAWs right out of the box. So, don't settle. Be smart and check out the Onyx Blackjack - the utmost in sonic quality and simplicity.
Boutique-Quality Onyx PreAmps
Great recordings start with high-quality preamps and you will simply not find preamps at this price range better than Blackjack’s Onyx preamps. We invested significant R&D efforts into developing our flagship Onyx mic preamps. Found on our most expensive studio consoles, Onyx pres are designed to meet or surpass expensive, esoteric standalone mic pres in terms of fidelity, headroom and transparency – as well as improved radio frequency (RFI) rejection and ultra-wide dynamic range. And with a full 60dB of available gain, would-be competitors are left in the dust.High-Quality AD/DA Conversion
Quality doesn’t stop at the boutique Onyx preamps. The Onyx Blackjack uses Cirrus Logic® converters offering 114dB dynamic range (A-weighted) – a specification other companies sometimes charge thousands of dollars to achieve. Our preamp circuitry is aligned precisely with the onboard analog-to-digital conversion to always provide you with the most headroom and the lowest noise and distortion possible, a real sonic benefit that is often ignored on smaller interfaces.Zero-Latency Recording
Latency is evil and must be punished. If you have recorded with digital gear, chances are you feel the same way. It’s a pesky computer-induced delay that can quickly kill the vibe of any recording session. Blackjack puts this issue to rest once and for all, featuring a true analog monitoring path directly from the preamps to your studio monitors and headphones. This means you can track while listening to the direct analog source with zero routing. Not only that, it also means you can adjust your buffer settings to maximize your computers processing ability. Oh yeah, Blackjack also allows you to track with zero latency in either mono or stereo, so you can get the right vibe when recording stereo signals like acoustic guitars and keyboards.Professional Tools
No other ultra-compact desktop interface delivers as many professional features as the Onyx Blackjack. Both channels double as built-in DIs for direct connection of guitars, basses, keyboards, drum machines, etc. Both channels also deliver 48V phantom power, so you can use studio-quality condenser mics with no problem. The studio monitor and headphone outputs have independent level controls for maximum flexibility. Plus, the Onyx Blackjack is bus-powered via USB, so there’s no power supply to lose or another cable cluttering your workspace. It also comes with Mackie’s Tracktion 3 Music Production software, so you can get started recording right away.Ergonimacally Inclined
Most desktop interfaces have a serious flaw: their construction. First off, most are made of cheap, breakable plastic. Onyx Blackjack features a sleek, powder-coated all-metal chassis that is truly “Built-Like-A-Tank”. You could literally use it as a hammer to smash the competition (not recommended at your local store). Second, when they are sitting on your desk, the competition lies flat, with no way to read the markings on the front panel. Have you ever accidently turned the wrong knob during your session? Not fun. The Onyx Blackjack sits with a 25-degree inclination, allowing for full view of all controls at all times, meaning more recording time and less hassle. A good idea – right?So there you have it. An extremely simple, but very powerful desktop interface that delivers all the features you want in a design that could fit in your man purse. Small studio. Big solution. Onyx Blackjack.
Features
- Two boutique-quality Onyx mic preamps with class-leading fidelity and dynamic range
- High-headroom design with ultra-low noise and distortion
- Professional 24-bit recording/playback via 2x2 USB
- High-end Cirrus Logic® AD/DA converters with 114dB dynamic range (A-weighted)
- True analog hardware monitoring of inputs, in mono or stereo, for easy zero-latency recording
- Compatible with most major DAWs
- Logic®
- SONAR™
- Cubase®
- Ableton® Live
- Final Cut Pro®
- ...and more
- Built-in DI on each input for direct connection of guitars, basses, etc.
- 48V phantom power for use with studio-quality condenser microphones
- USB bus-powered, eliminating need for separate power cable
- Separate studio monitor and headphone outs with independent level control
- Sleek, ergonomic “Built-Like-A-Tank” desktop design
- Includes Tracktion 3™ Music Production Software for Mac or PC
Software Requirements
For PC
- Microsoft Windows 7 32 / 64, Vista 32 / 64 RTM or XP SP 2
- Pentium 4, Celeron or Athlon XP processor
- 512 MB RAM
For Mac
- Mac OS X 10.4.11 – 10.6.4
- G4 processor
- 512 MB RAM
Top Brand: Mackie
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Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the performance, sound quality, quality, ease of use, and value of the audio midi interface. They mention that it works well enough for voice-over, has a much lower noise floor, and is well built. That said, some appreciate the intuitive layout and the fact that it's powered through USB and has phantom power. Overall, most are happy with the value of this product.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the performance of the audio midi interface. For example, they mention it works well with their system, has no issues, and produces good quality sound. Some say that it works fine in Windows 7 x64 and that it is good enough for voice-overs and over dubbing. They also say that the phantom power and preamp work exactly as they should, and that they have not had a single problem with the drivers.
"...No issues at all. Good quality sound. No Clicks, No Latency. Simple and Perfect for what I want it for...." Read more
"...that this audio interface does everything it says it does and it does it properly. I have absolutely zero complaints as far as something not working...." Read more
"...This overall good performance is allowing me to get as low as 3ms output latency in Reason 8--great for tracking and virtual instruments...." Read more
"...The OEM driver works nicely, but with one caveat, ensure that you download the 3.0 driver directly from the manufacturer website." Read more
Customers like the sound quality of the audio midi interface. They mention that it sounds great, inspires confidence, and has a much lower noise floor. It gives their voice a clean boost, works well with their system, and is small enough to fit in their pocket.
"...It has a much lower noise floor. I also want to mention that the sample rate of Onyx is 44.1 and 48kHz. This is fine for most uses...." Read more
"...Line noise eliminated, even with high voltage equipment in close proximity...." Read more
"...with a Tascam US-2x2 and was quite surprised by how much better and less noisy it is over the Mackie...." Read more
"...4. I do get a bit of background noise and a slight decrease in quality...." Read more
Customers like the quality of the audio midi interface. They say it's well-built, reliable, and has a great feel to the knobs. Overall, customers are satisfied with the quality and functionality of the product.
"...These preamps were the main reason I purchased this unit and their quality and overall rugged construction of this unit is quite welcome." Read more
"I really wanted this to work out. The thing is built like a tank, and it has a great configuration for a desktop USB audio interface...." Read more
"...Third, it's sturdy as a rock and quite intuitive with regard to layout. While MIDI would be nice, there isn't much room...." Read more
"...I can easily get a really strong and natural sounding signal. This box is definitely built like a tank! My AudioBox feels very cheap in comparison...." Read more
Customers find the audio midi interface easy to use. They mention it works flawlessly with their iMac, Pro running Mac OS 10.7, and it's just integrated seamlessly. They appreciate that it is powered through USB and has phantom power, and have no problems installing the drivers. They also say that it'a sturdy as a rock and quite intuitive with regard to layout. Overall, customers are happy with the ease of use and recommend the product to others.
"...No issues at all. Good quality sound. No Clicks, No Latency. Simple and Perfect for what I want it for...." Read more
"...The build quality is nice, and setup on a computer is flawless...." Read more
"...Third, it's sturdy as a rock and quite intuitive with regard to layout. While MIDI would be nice, there isn't much room...." Read more
"...If anyone wants a very simple, very easy to useinterface but don't mind if its not super loaded with features,..." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the value of the audio midi interface. They mention that it is a great product, with absurd quality and price. Some say that it's a rugged and affordable audio interface and that they would highly recommend it.
"Based on low cost and surprisingly good performance I feel Mackie's Onyx Blackjack deserves a five star rating...." Read more
"...So why 4 stars? A few reasons: First, the price point is pretty choice...." Read more
"...The interface itself is an easy five stars. This thing is awesome for the price, but these type of products extend past hardware alone and because..." Read more
"...AND I CHANGE MY RATE FROM 1 TO 5 BECAUSE IT'S VERY GOOD QUALITY AND PRICE." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the audio midi interface. They mention that it's a beautiful setup, built great, and is definitely the highlight of the product. Some customers also say that it is simplicity in its finest.
"...This thing is simplicity in its finest!..." Read more
"...The hardware is built great and is definitely the highlight of the product...." Read more
"...Very solid, looks great, sound great, inspires confidence, and if you care about looking like a pro, it does that too." Read more
"...The acual pre-amp itself is gorgeous. Amazing sound quality, I barely had to make any adujtments to the sound to make it studio quality...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the latency of the audio midi interface. Some mention that it has very low latency, while others say that it sometimes lags and causes stutter with their Windows 7 computer. However, they use WASAPI (Windows 7/Vista) driver, and the signal becomes choppy with the OEM driver.
"...No issues at all. Good quality sound. No Clicks, No Latency. Simple and Perfect for what I want it for...." Read more
"...achieve around ~15ms at 512 sample size before the signal becomes choppy with the OEM driver...." Read more
"...The Blackjack also has an input monitor with zero latency allowing the dry signal to be conveniently previewed...." Read more
"...The major negatives are that it has some pretty bad latency issues that pop up every once in awhile. It works great if I only do one thing at a time...." Read more
Customers are dissatisfied with the drivers for the audio midi interface. They mention that the drivers are useless, plagued with issues, and cannot run on anything newer than Windows 7. Some say that the company has failed to create Windows 8 compatible drivers, and has no plans to do so. Some say the drivers randomly crashes into a loud noise.
"...If you do any research you will see that this device was plagued with driver issues which were completely ignored by Mackie for almost a year...." Read more
"...So, in short, great hardware quality, great sonic quality, poor software and drivers...." Read more
"...for Signal/Overload LED's on the inputs, but very sensitive, no needed drivers (at least for the Mac environment), all-metal and built like a frickin..." Read more
"...Terrible driver.In OSX is the exact opposite, is perfect!The Preamps are very good, can drive a SM7B with no pain...." Read more
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After doing a lot of research I realized that it was probably the right fit for what I want.
I have a MAC Power Book - OS 10.6.6
I had been using only the 1/8th inch jack on the side for input and that, obviously, wasn't cutting it.
I wanted to use an electric guitar and a near field mic for vocals - specifically a Sure SM57
- because I'm recording in a place where I can't control the outside sounds and if I want to get a clean sound without a lot of background noise
and a low noise floor, I knew I would need the less sensitive and more directional mic.
The Sure SM57 needs a pre-amp that generates at least 54db to 60db, because it's a dynamic mic.
The Mackie Onyx Blackjack 2x2 USB was the only USB box I found who's pre-amp was that strong.
Since I have a MAC there was no "driver" problems talked about in other reviews.
I plugged the box in, went to the System Preferences >Sound > switched the "Audio In" to Onyx Blackjack, started up "Logic" and it worked instantly.
No issues at all. Good quality sound. No Clicks, No Latency. Simple and Perfect for what I want it for.
I tested it on Electric Guitar and then vocals with the SM57, and with some larger diaphragm mics.
It does the job I want it to do, and I give it 5 stars.
UPDATE: I am no longer using the SM57 mic. The Onyx is a great unit for that mic. However, I've upgraded my studio since then.
Now I'm using the Focusrite Scarlett 2i/2 2nd Generation. It has a much lower noise floor. I also want to mention that the sample rate of Onyx is 44.1 and 48kHz. This is fine for most uses. However, most mastering these days is preferred to be done in 96kHz. If you intend to have your music professionally mastered you should record it in 96kHz, and the Onyx is NOT the right USB interface for that.
With all that being said, I want to start off by saying that this audio interface does everything it says it does and it does it properly. I have absolutely zero complaints as far as something not working. The build quality is nice, and setup on a computer is flawless. Honestly on some computers you dont even have to predownload drivers, as your computer will do it automatically as soon as you plug in the interface.
Anyways, on to the reasoning behind 3 stars. As I just mentioned, the interface does its job. But thats it. It doesnt go above and beyond. It comes with small little nuances, and this interface is basically a living definition of "average".
Ill start off will all the little nuances Ive had with it.
1. Condenser mics absolutely work well, but I found that on some of my high quality condensor mics I have to turn the gain up all the way up. All my low quality and low power condenser mics do not have this problem, but it does result in lower quality recording.
2. This interface is obviously tailored and geared at home pc desk setups. What i mean by that is that the only input in the front is the headphone input. This allows the rest of the cables to be routed behind a desk and concealed well so the desk can look nice and cable free. Except the problem is that the interface is at an angle. So even though all the cables plug in at the back, you can still see them jutting out since they are angled upwards. A bit counter intuitive.
3. Ive only run into this problem 1 or 2 times before, but in my case ive had the recording issues just because the usb wasnt sitting in a perfect position in the PC. All it took was a little jiggle and it worked again. I can see this being pretty annoying for anyone with a pc with a hard to reach usb connection input.
4. I do get a bit of background noise and a slight decrease in quality. Obviously its considerably less than something like a usb mic, but ive used other interfaces like tascams and presonus usb interfaces that gave me slightly higher quality.
In conclusion, this interface is good. Its decent. But there is nothing about it that would convince me to absolutely pick it over other high quality usb interfaces.
I previously had USB 3.0 disabled on my motherboard (in the BIOS) before installing the Blackjack. Sadly, I was unable to get the driver below 256 samples without odd noise. Simply re-enabling the USB 3.0 AHCI function allowed me to get this unit working all the way down to its lowest latency setting: 64 samples. I'm not exactly sure why this helps, but it does on my system (ASUS MAXIMUS HERO VII). Bumping up to 128 from time to time is needed depending on the circumstances.
This overall good performance is allowing me to get as low as 3ms output latency in Reason 8--great for tracking and virtual instruments. The Blackjack also has an input monitor with zero latency allowing the dry signal to be conveniently previewed. This signal can then be sent to the headphone or 1/4" monitor jacks. Be sure to not mistakenly monitor both your DAW and the dry signal simultaneously--you might hear some phasing. The preamps are switchable providing a Hi-Z mode for direct connection to instruments, and in Line mode the unit will accommodate mics with or without phantom power. These preamps were the main reason I purchased this unit and their quality and overall rugged construction of this unit is quite welcome.
I have just tried the Tascam US 2x2, and it is so quiet!
Thank you Amazon for an excellent service.