This mixer does not have a tube stage per channel as one might expect. The main reasons are that it would be inappropriate sonically, it would be incredibly bulky and expensive, and it might be too hot to touch. This mixer, however, not only has the “Manley Sound” but is quiet, reliable and practical. This circuit 24 volt rails and proven solid state circuits in the channels that are the same ones used in their custom Mastering Consoles. The 16/2 has 16 plus 2 inputs, balanced/unbalanced, XLRs that double as mic and line inputs. Phantom power is switchable. The unit is stereo and has both transformer balanced and transformerless unbalanced outputs. Channel gain is stepped from unity (line level) to +15 and in 5 dB steps to +60 dB. It uses Bourns conductive plastic rotary pots for Fader and Pan. A post “fader” output is available for a number of reasons, but mostly to send to a “budget mixer” for aux send capabilities or “direct-to tape” outputs. The mix busses are tube based circuits that are reasonably similar to our mic preamps.

External inputs are provided to link mixers for 32 or 48 input needs. Two large Sifam VU meters are part of the deal. There are two “external” inputs for linking mixers and the solo logic is brought out to a back panel terminal for linking. Both Mix levels and Monitor levels are on the front panel. A Monitor “select” switch allows the user to hear the mix, mono compatibility and returns from two tape decks as well as the “Ext” input.

Mutes and Solos use relays. The Solo is of the “mute everything else” type. The buttons are EAO and are lit to indicate Mute and Solo. Size is 5U with external power supply.

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