Introduction
The Mackie 1402-VLZ3 is a 14-channel compact mixer designed for live sound, project studios, and recording environments. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your mixer to ensure optimal performance.
Key features include XDR2 mic preamps, 3-band active EQs, and versatile input/output options.
Product Overview
Figure 1: Top view of the Mackie 1402-VLZ3 mixer, showing the overall layout of controls and inputs.
The 1402-VLZ3 features a robust design suitable for various applications. It includes 6 microphone/line channels, 4 stereo line channels, and a comprehensive master section.
Key Features:
- Ultra-low noise VLZ3 design with high headroom.
- 6 studio-grade XDR2 Extended Dynamic Range mic preamps.
- 12 high-headroom line inputs.
- Advanced DC pulse transformer RF rejection.
- 2 Aux sends, level, pan, and PFL solo on each channel.
- 2 stereo Aux returns plus EFX to Monitor.
- 3-Band Active EQ (80Hz, 2.5kHz, 12kHz).
- 18dB/oct. 75Hz Lo-Cut filter on Mic input channels.
- ALT 3/4 stereo bus for additional routing flexibility.
- Control Room/Phones source matrix.
- Rack-mountable design (optional rack ears required).
- Sealed rotary controls to resist dust and grime.
- Multi-Voltage power supply for worldwide use.
Setup
1. Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully remove the mixer from its packaging. Inspect the unit for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping. Retain the packaging for future transport or storage.
2. Power Connection
Connect the provided power adapter to the mixer's power input and then to a suitable electrical outlet. The mixer features a multi-voltage power supply for global compatibility. Ensure the power switch is in the OFF position before connecting.
Figure 2: Rear panel of the Mackie 1402-VLZ3, showing power input, main outputs, and channel inserts.
3. Audio Connections
Connect your microphones, instruments, and other audio sources to the appropriate input jacks on the mixer. The 1402-VLZ3 offers:
- Mic Inputs (Channels 1-6): XLR connectors for microphones. These channels feature XDR2 mic preamps and phantom power.
- Line Inputs (Channels 1-6): 1/4-inch TRS/TS connectors for line-level signals.
- Stereo Line Inputs (Channels 7/8, 9/10, 11/12, 13/14): 1/4-inch TRS/TS connectors for stereo line-level sources.
- Main Outputs: Balanced XLR and 1/4-inch TRS outputs for connecting to power amplifiers or recording devices.
- Control Room Outputs: 1/4-inch TRS outputs for monitoring.
- ALT 3-4 Outputs: 1/4-inch TRS outputs for submixes.
- Tape Inputs/Outputs: RCA connectors for connecting to recording devices.
- Channel Inserts (Channels 1-6): 1/4-inch TRS jacks for connecting external processors to individual channels.
Figure 3: Detailed top view of the Mackie 1402-VLZ3, highlighting input and output sections.
4. Rack Mounting (Optional)
The 1402-VLZ3 can be rack-mounted using an optional rack ear kit (sold separately). When installing the rack ears, it may be necessary to use longer screws than those originally provided with the mixer. Specifically, M3.5-0.6 x 8 metric zinc pan head Phillips machine screws are recommended for secure attachment.
Operating Instructions
1. Channel Controls
Each input channel (1-14) features controls for adjusting the audio signal:
- Gain: Adjusts the input sensitivity for microphones and line-level sources. The XDR2 mic preamps offer a 60dB gain range.
- Lo-Cut Filter (Mic Channels 1-6): Engages an 18dB/octave 75Hz high-pass filter to reduce unwanted low-frequency rumble.
- EQ (Equalization): 3-band active EQ with controls for High (12kHz), Mid (2.5kHz), and Low (80Hz) frequencies. Each band offers up to 15dB of boost or cut.
- Aux Sends (Aux 1 & Aux 2): Controls the amount of signal sent to the auxiliary outputs for effects or monitor mixes.
- Pan: Positions the channel's signal within the stereo field (left to right).
- Mute: Silences the channel's signal from the main mix. When muted, the signal is routed to the ALT 3-4 bus.
- Solo (PFL): Pre-Fader Listen. Routes the channel's signal to the headphones and control room outputs for monitoring without affecting the main mix.
- Level Fader: Adjusts the overall output level of the channel to the main mix.
2. Master Section Controls
The master section provides overall control for the mixer's outputs:
- Main Mix Faders (Left & Right): Control the overall output level of the main stereo mix.
- Control Room/Submix Fader: Adjusts the level of the Control Room/Phones output. Can also be used to control the level of the ALT 3-4 submix when assigned to the main output.
- Headphone Level: Adjusts the volume for the headphone output.
- Phantom Power (+48V): Activates +48V phantom power for condenser microphones connected to mic inputs 1-6.
- Level Set LED: Indicates optimal input gain settings.
- ALT 3-4 Bus: This feature allows signals muted from the main mix to be routed to a separate stereo bus (ALT 3-4 outputs). This can be used to create additional auxiliary sends or submixes. The ALT 3-4 mix can also be assigned back to the main output.
Maintenance
Cleaning
To maintain the performance and appearance of your Mackie 1402-VLZ3 mixer, regularly clean its surfaces. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away dust and grime. Avoid using liquid cleaners directly on the controls or openings. The mixer features sealed rotary controls designed to resist dust and grime ingress.
Durability
The 1402-VLZ3 is constructed with a solid-steel chassis and horizontally mounted fiberglass PC boards for enhanced durability and impact resistance. Control knobs are designed to 'ride' just above the chassis surface, transferring impact to the chassis rather than the potentiometers or circuit board.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your mixer, consider the following:
- No Power: Ensure the power adapter is securely connected to both the mixer and a working electrical outlet. Check the power switch.
- No Sound:
- Verify all input sources are connected correctly and are active.
- Check channel gain and level faders are set appropriately.
- Ensure channel Mute buttons are disengaged.
- Confirm Main Mix faders are raised.
- Check connections to your amplifier or recording device.
- Verify phantom power is enabled for condenser microphones.
- Distorted Sound:
- Reduce input gain if the Level Set LED indicates clipping.
- Check for proper impedance matching between sources and inputs.
- Ensure cables are in good condition.
- Hum or Noise:
- Check all cable connections for proper seating.
- Ensure proper grounding of all equipment.
- Engage the Lo-Cut filter on mic channels if low-frequency rumble is present.
For persistent issues, consult the full Mackie support resources or contact customer service.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 14 pounds |
| Item Model Number | 1402-VLZ3 |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Brand | Mackie |
| Number of Channels | 14 |
| Connectivity Technology | Auxiliary |
| Output Connector Type | XLR, TRS |
| Mic Preamp THD | Below 0.0007% |
| Overall Mixer THD | Less than 0.0025% |
| Mic Preamp Gain Range | 60dB |
| EQ Frequencies | Low: 80Hz, Mid: 2.5kHz, High: 12kHz |
| EQ Boost/Cut | Up to 15dB per band |
Warranty and Support
For information regarding the product warranty, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official Mackie website. Technical support and additional resources can also be found on the Mackie website.
