ASHLY MX-206 7x2 Mixer, 6 Mic Inputs, 1 Stereo RCA line input, Stereo Ouput. 48V

Product Overview

The Ashly MX-206 is a six-channel stereo microphone mixer providing up to 84dB of gain for distant mic placements and low-level signal sources, suited for live sound reinforcement, broadcast, recording, and fixed installation applications. Ultra low-noise, studio-grade discrete mic preamps on all six channels deliver exceptional dynamic range with a transformer-isolated XLR mono output rated for +24dBu into 600 ohms. Made in the USA and backed by a 5-year warranty, the MX-206 is a reliable rack-mount mic mixing solution for demanding commercial audio environments.

Product Description

The MX-206 accepts microphone or line-level signals on all six input channels via rear-panel XLR connectors. Each channel features an ultra low-noise discrete microphone preamp with up to 84dB of gain, covering distant microphone placements and extremely low-level signal sources that would exceed the headroom of typical mic preamps in the other direction. A switchable 20dB pad on each input handles high-level sources without overloading the preamp. A three-position gain switch on each channel selects between gain ranges for precise level setting, and per-channel level and pan controls place signals in the stereo mix. Channel clip LED indicators illuminate before distortion occurs at the input stage.

The +48V phantom power switch on the rear panel activates condenser microphone power for all channels simultaneously. A separate stereo line-in volume control adjusts the contribution of a source connected to the rear-panel RCA stereo inputs or the front-panel 3.5mm auxiliary jack, providing a dedicated program level independent of the mic channels. The transformer-isolated XLR mono output is capable of driving +24dBu into 600 ohms, providing high headroom for long cable runs and broadcast-level output applications. Balanced stereo TRS 1/4-inch outputs are also provided. Stereo Line Out on RCA jacks serves recording devices and consumer equipment. Two 5-segment multi-colored LED meters display left and right output levels, with separate peak clip indicators monitoring all signal points and illuminating before audible distortion. Maximum power consumption is 30W. Certifications include cTUVus, CE, FCC, and RoHS.

Key Features

• 6 Mic/Line Input Channels — All six inputs include studio-grade discrete mic preamps with up to 84dB of gain for demanding low-level source applications.
• Transformer-Isolated XLR Mono Output (+24dBu / 600Ω) — High-headroom transformer-coupled mono output for long cable runs and broadcast-level connections.
• 20dB Pad Per Channel — Switchable input pad handles high-level line sources on mic-configured inputs.
• 3-Position Gain Switch Per Channel — Front-panel gain range selection for accurate level-setting across a wide range of source levels.
• Per-Channel Level, Pan, and Clip LED — Full front-panel control and monitoring per input channel.
• +48V Phantom Power — Rear-panel switch for condenser microphone operation on all channels.
• Separate Stereo Line Input with Independent Level Control — Rear RCA and front 3.5mm inputs for program sources, adjustable independently from mic channels.
• Balanced Stereo TRS Outputs — 1/4-inch TRS balanced stereo outputs for connection to power amplifiers or distribution equipment.
• Stereo RCA Line In/Out — Consumer-level connections for recording and external source integration.
• Stereo Headphone Output — Front-panel headphone output with level control for monitoring.
• 5-Segment Stereo LED Metering — Multi-colored L/R output meters with clip indicators at all signal points.
• Made in the USA, 5-Year Warranty — Manufactured in Webster, New York with full Ashly Audio warranty.

Typical Applications

• Live sound reinforcement microphone submixing
• Broadcast studio and mobile broadcast unit mic mixing
• Recording studio session mic preamp and mixing
• Film and video production sound mixing
• House of worship lectern, choir, and ambient mic mixing
• Conference room and boardroom microphone mixing
• Supplemental mic inputs for existing fixed installation audio systems

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

How much gain does the MX-206 provide for microphones?

The MX-206 provides up to 84dB of microphone preamp gain, which is exceptional for handling distant microphone placements, ribbon microphones, and very low-output dynamic microphones. The 3-position gain switch per channel controls the gain range, and a 20dB pad accommodates high-level line sources.

What is the transformer-isolated mono XLR output used for?

The transformer-isolated XLR mono output is rated at +24dBu into 600 ohms, making it suitable for driving long cable runs to broadcast equipment, power amplifiers in separate rooms, or high-headroom recording interfaces. The transformer isolation eliminates ground loops and provides common-mode noise rejection.

Does the MX-206 support condenser microphones?

Yes. A rear-panel switch enables +48V phantom power for condenser microphones connected to any of the six XLR inputs. The 20dB pad on each channel accommodates high-output condenser microphones that might otherwise clip the input stage.

Can the MX-206 be used as a supplemental mic input expander for an existing mixer?

Yes. The MX-206's stereo TRS or mono XLR outputs can feed into the line inputs of any larger mixing console, making it an effective mic input expansion for systems that have run out of microphone channels. The independent stereo line input level control allows program sources to be mixed in separately.

Is the MX-206 made in the USA?

Yes. The MX-206 is designed and manufactured at Ashly Audio's facility in Webster, New York, and carries a 5-year limited warranty.