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Mackie Big Knob Passive 2x2 Studio Monitor Controller
Return this item for free
Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges
Learn more about free returns.- Go to your orders and start the return
- Select the return method
- Ship it!
Return this item for free
Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges
Learn more about free returns.- Go to your orders and start the return
- Select the return method
- Ship it!
Purchase options and add-ons
Brand | Mackie |
Model Name | Big Knob Passive |
Speaker Type | Monitor |
Connectivity Technology | USB |
Special Feature | Volume Control |
About this item
- Passive Monit Controller with 2 Selectable Stereo Inputs
- 2 Selectable Stereo Outputs
- Mono/Mute/Dim Buttons
Frequently bought together
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Product information
Item Weight | 2.86 pounds |
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Product Dimensions | 8.3 x 7.8 x 4.9 inches |
ASIN | B01NCUZ32O |
Item model number | BIG KNOB PASSIVE |
Customer Reviews |
4.4 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #4,601 in Musical Instruments (See Top 100 in Musical Instruments) #3 in Digital Audio Workstation Controllers |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | January 19, 2017 |
Color Name | Black |
Connector Type | USB |
Speaker Amplification Type | Passive |
Size | Passive 2x2 |
Power Source | Corded Electric |
Voltage | 240 Volts |
Input Voltage | 120 Volts |
Item Weight | 2.86 Pounds |
Number Of Items | 1 |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
Product guides and documents
What's in the box
Videos
Videos for this product
0:37
Click to play video
Customer Review: For a home audio studio the best
Luis Hernandez
Videos for this product
1:13
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It's a big knob... for volume, but also for so much more...
Nick Thacker
Videos for this product
5:41
Click to play video
Big Knob Passive teardown & features demo with audio samples
DcSoundOp
Product Description
Mackie BIG KNOB PASSIVE benefits from a proven, bestselling design to deliver professional level control, Plus source and monitor selection for studios of any size. The passive audio path ensures pristine sonic integrity is maintained throughout your signal chain. More than just a level control solution, BIG KNOB PASSIVE features the ability to choose between two sources and two monitor pairs. Ideal for simple LEVEL control at a home or project studio or for integration in a large studio or group of editing suites, BIG KNOB PASSIVE is the “Built-Like-A-Tank, ” affordable monitoring control solution.
From the manufacturer
ALWAYS IN TOUCH
With high-resolution goodness of an Onyx recording and playback solution, Big Knob truly becomes the nerve center for your studio.
More Than Meets The Eye
Studios of any size can benefit from the professional source/monitor selection and precise level control of the Big Knob Series. If you are looking for excruciatingly simple volume control/monitor switching, the Big Knob Passive delivers at an amazing cost. No matter what size studio, Big Knob is always at the top of the recording studio equipment shopping list.
With three models, each delivering flexible solutions, there is definitely a Big Knob right for your application.
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Premium Onyx Recording/PlaybackBoth the Big Knob Studio and Big Knob Studio+ offer high-resolution up to 192 kHz, featuring dual Onyx mic preamps, delivering an ultra-wide 60 dB of gain range and award winning sound quality. |
Flexible IntegrationThe expanded Big Knob lineup offers models with unique feature sets and I/O to suit a huge range of applications. Features like dual headphone outs, a dedicated amp-driven studio out, a true cue mix and more ensure Big Knob will fit right into your studio or workplace. |
Pro Source and Monitor SelectionThe Mackie Big Knob has been the go-to monitor controlling solution for home and professional studios. The all-new Big Knob family takes the best of this classic workflow, delivering the right solution for the modern studio. |
Customer Reviews |
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I/O Switching | 2x2 | 3x2 | 4x3 |
Mono, Mute, Dim | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Input Meteric | Dual 16-Segment LED | Dual 16-Segment LED | |
Mic Preamps | Yes, with built-in mic | Yes, with built-in and external mic options | |
Cue Section, Cue Outputs | ✓ | ✓ | |
USB I/O | 2x2, 24-Bit /192 kHz | 2x4, 24-Bit /192 kHz | |
Dedicated Recording Outputs | Direct to USB | Selectable - USB or Analog Outputs | |
Dimensions | 3.1 × 5.4 × 5.6 in | 3.2 × 9.9 × 6.4 in | 3.2 × 11.9 × 6.8 in |
Weight | 2.2 lb/1.0 kg | 3.5 lb/1.6 kg | 4.6 lb/2.1 kg |
Compare with similar items
This Item Mackie Big Knob Passive 2x2 Studio Monitor Controller | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | |
Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | |
Price | $69.99$69.99 | $70.49$70.49 | $49.00$49.00 | $99.99$99.99 |
Delivery | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Apr 3 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Apr 3 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Apr 3 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Apr 3 |
Customer Ratings | ||||
Value for money | 5.0 | 4.9 | 4.5 | 4.3 |
Volume control | 4.5 | 4.9 | 4.7 | 4.5 |
Sound quality | 4.3 | 4.9 | 4.4 | 4.5 |
Quality of material | 4.5 | — | 4.6 | 4.4 |
Sold By | Amazon.com | Kellards | Amazon.com | Amazon.com |
power source | Corded Electric | — | Corded Electric | Corded Electric |
connectivity tech | USB | Wired | XLR | 1/4" TRS, RCA, Auxiliary |
speaker type | Monitor | Monitor | Outdoor | Active Media Reference Monitors |
mounting type | — | Phone Mount | Tabletop | Desktop, Bookshelf |
weight | 2.86 pounds | — | 0.88 pounds | 8.5 pounds |
model name | Big Knob Passive | — | MONITOR1 | Eris 3.5 |
surround channels | 2 | 2 | 2 | — |
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Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the quality, performance, and ease of use of the audio midi interface. For example, they mention it's very well built, functional, and easy to set up in the studio. That said, opinions are mixed on sound quality, value, and volume.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the quality of the audio midi interface. They say it is very well built, the input and output connectors are well made, and the metal housing feels solid. Customers also mention that the volume knob feels solid, the buttons all feel solid, and that the product is built like a tank.
"...So I just bought one. The build quality is excellent, it is small enough that it fits nicely to the right/rear of my Tascam Model 12...." Read more
"...There is hardly anything to break. Volume knob feels solid." Read more
"...It works great, feels like it's a rugged build, and adds a layer against accidentally damaging your speakers...." Read more
"...back, that offers follow, mute, and solo for the subwoofer, handy for Room EQ Wizard or just hearing what your subs vs monitors are doing...." Read more
Customers like the performance of the audio midi interface. They say it's very functional, built to last, and runs great. Customers also love the functionality and features, saying it'll ensure that tasks are done. They mention that the A/B functions are great and the replacement seems to work fine. Overall, customers are satisfied with the performance and functionality of the product.
"...It works great, feels like it's a rugged build, and adds a layer against accidentally damaging your speakers...." Read more
"...Pic attached. Works fine, although this is a bit of an advanced mod...." Read more
"...Some reviewers say too sensitive. Whaaa? Good, stout build and a pleasing tactile response is what I paid the big bucks for...." Read more
"...Additionally, its powerful features and reliable performance ensure that tasks are completed efficiently and effectively...." Read more
Customers find the audio midi interface easy to use. They say it's uncomplicated, user-friendly, and does a wonderful simple job of making recordings. They also say it saves time and aggravation, and is easy to set up in the studio. Customers also mention that it has a convenient 1/8" analog in right on the front for AUX situations. Overall, customers say it is a great product for simple home studios.
"...Simple, Low cost Solution and based upon my using it I am sure it also makes for a perfect Monitor Controller if that is what you need!" Read more
"...With its user-friendly nature, both beginners and experienced individuals can easily reap the benefits of this product...." Read more
"...Basic and uncomplicated, sporting the right mix of features ... perfect for the job." Read more
"...IT was easy to connect and use and solved my problem of needing to connect my studio monitors to work back and forth between two different daws...." Read more
Customers like the volume control of the audio midi interface. They mention that it works great, has a very smooth travel, and does the magic. The knob itself has s silky smooth action, and is infinitely variable.
"...The Knob is silky smooth and infinitely variable. Some reviewers say too sensitive. Whaaa?..." Read more
"Great audio interface overall. I bought this as an audio interface alternative to the moto m4 (discontinued i think)...." Read more
"...it just sit on my desk by my keyboard for easy switching and quick volume adjustment. I can even plug my iPhone in to listen to tunes and podcasts...." Read more
"...The build is solid and feels premier. The big volume knob is so fun to spin and the buttons feel good to press. I LOVE the DIM button!..." Read more
Customers like the control of the audio midi interface. They mention that it's a great passive controller, and it needs no power supply. They also appreciate the ability to have total control with a quick flip of the wrist. Customers also mention that the A/B controls are great.
"...that I need to check on when monitoring or mixing and this passive control is perfect. There is hardly anything to break. Volume knob feels solid." Read more
"...The fact that it is passive, is a major plus for the outlet deprived...." Read more
"...As this item is passive and doesn’t need any kind of AC power, that’s very nice as well (I already have enough to plug in)." Read more
"...What I love is that it needs NO POWER. It’s passive so I plug in my speakers and my source inputs and that’s it!..." Read more
Customers are mixed about the sound quality of the audio midi interface. Some mention that the sound was good, does not alter the sound at all, and the few functions are useful and work well. However, others say that their play back speakers gained a buzzing noise, the monitors are typically too loud, and there was an insane amount of buzzing and audio interference.
"...Being passive, the minimal amount of electronics used makes it ultra-low noise and maximum signal integrity...." Read more
"...it's built like a tank, with grabby jacks and silent switches with a buttery precision feel to them...." Read more
"...Monitors are typically too loud anyway when driven at line level...." Read more
"...is not the best in the universe but have quality and performance good sound clearly and super acoustic..." Read more
Customers are mixed about the value of the audio midi interface. Some mention it has everything they need and is well worth the price, while others say it's not worth it and a complete waste of time.
"...Simple, Low cost Solution and based upon my using it I am sure it also makes for a perfect Monitor Controller if that is what you need!" Read more
"...It's more or less a disposable product. I bought it knowing full well this was likely the case, given other reviews and it's price...." Read more
"...Yes, it's pricey, but worth it. And the Mute button comes in handy for silencing those pop up video ads when you're net surfing...." Read more
"...That's not good for production... as it can cause static, or actually not function at the proper gain or volume...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the volume of the audio midi interface. Some mention that the mute button comes in handy for silencing those pop up video ads when they're on the phone. They also say that the control, easy access dim, mono, and muting buttons are really handy. However, others say that when they’re on input B, the volume drops like 20db, one of the channels is a little louder than the other, and that it reduces their system volume by more than half.
"...’s a noticeable attenuation of the high end, but also a major downgrade in overall volume, even when maxed...." Read more
"...Yes, it's pricey, but worth it. And the Mute button comes in handy for silencing those pop up video ads when you're net surfing...." Read more
"...use but it degraded the mids / high end response, not to mention a loss of volume." Read more
"...Unfortunately, when connected in this manner there is a significant drop in volume. I tried all kinds of cabling combinations to no avail...." Read more
Reviews with images
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Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
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Now that my set up has grown (with seemingly no end in sight) I wanted to free up those 2 Channels, as the Turntable is not used as frequently (we have a +Audio System in our living room for most of our Vinyl listening).
I decided to get a Passive Switcher. In the old days I would have just gone down to my local electronics shop and bought the components and built one but those days of those kind of shops are long gone.
I wanted something small. In my research I found a Mackie "Big Knob" Passive Monitor Controller. It is typically used to switch between 2 set of Monitors, like a main and reference pair. But you can also connect two sets of inputs and easily switch between them, which is what I needed.
So I just bought one. The build quality is excellent, it is small enough that it fits nicely to the right/rear of my Tascam Model 12. It's out of the way but with easy access.
Being passive, the minimal amount of electronics used makes it ultra-low noise and maximum signal integrity. In fact comparing it to the direct signals into the Tascam Model 10 and coming out of the Big Knob there is zero difference, no noise, coloration or volume loss. I don't understand some of the reviews that claim it was either Noisy or The Volume was low. Non of that was the case with mine. I can only suspect "USER Error" or connecting it improperly from those reviewers.
It also has some buttons for Mono, Mute, and Dim which might come in handy.
Simple, Low cost Solution and based upon my using it I am sure it also makes for a perfect Monitor Controller if that is what you need!
Reviewed in the United States on April 22, 2023
Now that my set up has grown (with seemingly no end in sight) I wanted to free up those 2 Channels, as the Turntable is not used as frequently (we have a +Audio System in our living room for most of our Vinyl listening).
I decided to get a Passive Switcher. In the old days I would have just gone down to my local electronics shop and bought the components and built one but those days of those kind of shops are long gone.
I wanted something small. In my research I found a Mackie "Big Knob" Passive Monitor Controller. It is typically used to switch between 2 set of Monitors, like a main and reference pair. But you can also connect two sets of inputs and easily switch between them, which is what I needed.
So I just bought one. The build quality is excellent, it is small enough that it fits nicely to the right/rear of my Tascam Model 12. It's out of the way but with easy access.
Being passive, the minimal amount of electronics used makes it ultra-low noise and maximum signal integrity. In fact comparing it to the direct signals into the Tascam Model 10 and coming out of the Big Knob there is zero difference, no noise, coloration or volume loss. I don't understand some of the reviews that claim it was either Noisy or The Volume was low. Non of that was the case with mine. I can only suspect "USER Error" or connecting it improperly from those reviewers.
It also has some buttons for Mono, Mute, and Dim which might come in handy.
Simple, Low cost Solution and based upon my using it I am sure it also makes for a perfect Monitor Controller if that is what you need!
Speaking of which, this unit runs only impedance balanced (it's passive, just using resistors, rather than active balancing or transformer balancing). Sure it accepts balanced connections, but pin 3 just runs 150ohms to ground both in and out, which will net fairly modest noise removal from the cable run. Otherwise they’d need a very fancy potentiometer double dual gang with very strict tolerances. Unbal to monitors with short cable runs not such a problem, but it is somewhat of a volume loss, beyond the loss this unit already has by design. Monitors are typically too loud anyway when driven at line level.
There are also a pair of 10uF electrolytics…polarized commodity ones…between input and output. I shunted those off but most people should probably leave them, they don’t hurt the sound much. And 100pf ceramic caps avoiding RF interference coming down the line, perhaps bleeding off a touch of high end in the process. I left those.
The next day (not shown in the photo) I also added an On-Off-On toggle under the logo on the back, that offers follow, mute, and solo for the subwoofer, handy for Room EQ Wizard or just hearing what your subs vs monitors are doing. The solo works in conjunction with the main mute button as a fast A/B.
Anyway this did solve my problem after modding and the unit is heavy and the knob feels smooth and heavy like a hifi receiver. I improved the signal path a touch and the functionality a ton. I just wanted to show this mod is possible and is good enough to avoid spending more if you can hack it and that’s all you need.
Reviewed in the United States on February 1, 2023
Speaking of which, this unit runs only impedance balanced (it's passive, just using resistors, rather than active balancing or transformer balancing). Sure it accepts balanced connections, but pin 3 just runs 150ohms to ground both in and out, which will net fairly modest noise removal from the cable run. Otherwise they’d need a very fancy potentiometer double dual gang with very strict tolerances. Unbal to monitors with short cable runs not such a problem, but it is somewhat of a volume loss, beyond the loss this unit already has by design. Monitors are typically too loud anyway when driven at line level.
There are also a pair of 10uF electrolytics…polarized commodity ones…between input and output. I shunted those off but most people should probably leave them, they don’t hurt the sound much. And 100pf ceramic caps avoiding RF interference coming down the line, perhaps bleeding off a touch of high end in the process. I left those.
The next day (not shown in the photo) I also added an On-Off-On toggle under the logo on the back, that offers follow, mute, and solo for the subwoofer, handy for Room EQ Wizard or just hearing what your subs vs monitors are doing. The solo works in conjunction with the main mute button as a fast A/B.
Anyway this did solve my problem after modding and the unit is heavy and the knob feels smooth and heavy like a hifi receiver. I improved the signal path a touch and the functionality a ton. I just wanted to show this mod is possible and is good enough to avoid spending more if you can hack it and that’s all you need.
Reviewed in the United States on January 2, 2024
Top reviews from other countries
Fácil de montar e resultado sonoro muito bom
Trabaja como se espera,
Excelente relacion calidad/precio
Nb.
I have no noise problems at my end.
Get one!!