My task were to play small band (e-drums, e-guitar, bass, keyboard) and solution was to get a Mixer. Getting 4 parallel (independent) inputs are not easy, as it is not exact number that you get on tag (8-channel = 4, 6 channel = 3, etc.) In the beginning I was looking on Yamaha, MG06, MG10 and other many options available. And to my surprise there are ZED series from Allen & Heath for very competitive price.
Winning points towards ZED are following:
- 2 Hi-Z inputs - no DI box required for guitar connection
- EQ on 4! channels (4 independent channels)
- PFL on all channels
Those just a few to mention.
Initially I have ordered ZED6FX mainly lead by positive comments. But during first test I understood that FX engine didn't that usable with guitar and my set overall, it fit more towards mic use (vocals), which is not my use case.
If you use PG Spark amps and controls (like me) there are endless effects options and more creative possibilities. So I decided to switch to ZEDi8 which doesn't have built in FX engine but have one big key difference - build in 2x2 USB Audio Interface - and this is a game changer!
It is important to highlight that in ZEDi8 USB interface is an independent (!) channel not combined with other channels (like for example in ZEDi10 it's combined with ST2 - pay attention if you looking on it)
I am know happy owner of all-in-one ZEDi8 - mixer and audio interface.
Great build quality and feel of knobs. Some comment mentions about odor - not at all, and plastic external frame, which to me is more pro than con, considering that it will play a role of bumper.
Regarding built in Audio Interface - all work fine with Garage Band, Cubase. But there is a trick if you are using with your iPhone or iPad - do not connect directly to the phone/pad port but trough USB hub, otherwise you will get only sound out but not in.
As said previously USB interface it is independent channel (no EQ) so you can also mix in audio from your iphone or iPad with connected MIDI controller - that is huge advantage. So you get total 5 independent channels in this Mixer which is amazing for it's price.
Absolutely recommend it!
