The Mackie CFX16 MKII is a professional 16-channel compact live sound mixer designed for small to medium venue applications including band performances, houses of worship, and corporate AV events. This analog console features twelve mono microphone/line input channels equipped with genuine Mackie high-headroom, low-noise mic preamps renowned for their pristine audio quality and RF rejection capabilities. The remaining four channels are configured as two stereo line inputs, perfect for keyboards, media players, and other stereo sources. Each mono channel includes a 60mm logarithmic-taper fader, a three-band EQ with a fully sweepable midrange control from 100Hz to 8kHz, and a 100Hz low-cut filter to eliminate microphone rumble and stage noise. The channel strip also provides two aux sends (switchable pre/post as a pair), an external effects send, an internal effects send feeding the onboard processor, plus pan, mute, PFL solo, and bus assign controls for subgroups 1/2 and 3/4.

The console's standout feature is its integrated 32-bit EMAC digital effects processor, which rivals dedicated outboard units in sound quality and eliminates the need for external effect processors and cabling. Offering 16 preset effect types including nine reverbs (plates, halls, rooms, and spring simulation), four delays, chorus, flange, and phaser, the processor provides two real-time adjustable parameter knobs for tailoring effect time, damping, feedback, or modulation depth. An EFX Wide control enhances stereo spatial expansion, while a footswitch jack enables hands-free effect bypass during performances. The effects section can be routed independently to aux sends 1 and 2 for foldback monitor mixes, allowing performers to hear reverb in their stage wedges without affecting the front-of-house mix. A master effects return level control with clip LED ensures proper gain staging.

For comprehensive output control, the CFX16 MKII features a true four-bus design with direct subgroup outputs and L/R assignment, plus a nine-band stereo graphic equalizer on the main stereo bus for precise tonal shaping and feedback suppression. The balanced XLR outputs include left, right, and a dedicated mono subwoofer output with an 18dB/octave crossover at 75Hz, making bi-amping with powered subwoofers exceptionally straightforward. Additional connectivity includes inserts on all twelve mic channels and the main stereo outputs, two aux returns, a utility output with independent level control (post-main fader), and RCA tape inputs and outputs. The ingenious Break Switch instantly mutes all input channels while allowing background music from the tape input to pass through—perfect for set breaks. Rugged steel monocoque construction with impact-resistant rubber side cheeks, Onyx-series knobs, and co-molded potentiometers ensures durability for regular transport and live use. An internal universal power supply (IEC cord included) and a 12V BNC lamp connector for dark stage environments complete this highly practical live sound package.