As far as table-top, mid-sized analogue mixing consoles go, Yamaha MG12XU is really the start of the full feature set for the MG series.
Sure, there are smaller models available (MG06X, MG10XUF), but MG12XU is very well appointed, and laid out in a completely logical manner – thanks in no small part to Yamaha’s long heritage in mixing consoles.
The first 4 channels have a Neutrik COMBI connector, to take either XLR or Jack input. There’s also a 1-knob compressor on each of the first 4 channels, as an easy way to bring a microphone or instrument to the fore, by applying as much (or as little) pre-set compression as you’d like.
Following the channel down, there’s 3-band eq, an Aux send (for stage monitor send, or in ears), an internal SPX effects send, pan knob, and a fader. You also get the choice of sending the signal to the Stereo (FOH) bus, or firstly to the Group 1-2 bus, which is handy if you’re grouping vocals (or drums) together for easy volume control of a group.
The next two channels can each be used for microphones, or as a stereo line channel. The only difference between these channels and the first 4, is the yellow ‘1-knob compressor’ missing from Ch 5/6 and 7/8.
There are two more stereo channels, where you can choose between Jack or RCA for Ch 9/10, and Jack/RCA or USB input for 11/12. There is no gain control or mid eq for these last two stereo channels – they are strictly for line level, program-style inputs.
