Mackie DLZ Creator XS Adaptive Digital Podcast Mixer

The Mackie DLZ Creator XS is a compact adaptive digital mixer for podcasting, livestreaming, YouTube production, and other desktop content-creation workflows. It brings microphone inputs, device audio, monitoring, processing, recording, and computer interfacing into one control surface. This helps creators consolidate functions that might otherwise require separate mixers, interfaces, and recorders.

It is intended for creators with different levels of audio experience, from first-time podcasters to users who want deeper channel control. Easy, Enhanced, and Pro control modes change the touchscreen workflow to suit the task and operator. Mix Agent assists with setup, including input-level configuration, to provide a practical starting point for a session.

Two Onyx80 microphone preamps supply up to 80 dB of gain, supporting a broad range of microphones including low-output dynamic models. The mixer also supports 48V phantom power for compatible condenser microphones. AutoMix manages levels for two voices, helping maintain a more consistent conversation mix.

The DLZ Creator XS supports analog, Bluetooth, and computer-based audio sources in a small desktop format. Its two XLR/TRS combo inputs are joined by dual 1/4-inch stereo inputs, a 1/8-inch stereo input, and a stereo bi-directional Bluetooth channel. A 14x4 USB-C audio interface provides computer connectivity for Mac or PC workflows.

For recording, the mixer can stream or record through a connected computer, or capture multitrack audio directly to compatible microSD media or a USB-A removable drive. Built-in processing includes a 3-band parametric EQ, noise gate, de-esser, compressor, reverb, delay, and voice-changing effects. Customizable pads provide quick access to samples, effects, and commands such as fade and duck.

Key Features

• Adaptive Control Modes: Easy, Enhanced, and Pro modes tailor the operating workflow to the user's experience level.
• Onyx80 Mic Preamps: Two preamps offer up to 80 dB of gain for dynamic and condenser microphone setups.
• AutoMix: Automatically manages levels for two voices to help maintain a balanced conversation.
• 14x4 USB-C Interface: Connects the mixer to a Mac or PC for multichannel recording and streaming workflows.
• Standalone Multitrack Recording: Records 12 channels plus the main mix to compatible microSD media or USB storage.
• Customizable Pads: Trigger samples, switch effects, or activate functions such as fade and duck from the control surface.

Design & Installation

The DLZ Creator XS is a compact desktop mixer with a 7-inch high-resolution full-color touchscreen and anti-glare coating. Its control surface combines four dynamically color-coded rotary encoders, five potentiometers with dynamic LED level indication, and backlit mute, solo, and navigation buttons. The enclosure measures 10.2 inches wide by 8.0 inches deep, making it suitable for a desk-based production setup or portable recording position.

Connect microphones through the two XLR/TRS combo inputs, then route the main 1/4-inch outputs to powered monitors, an amplifier, or another audio destination. Two independent headphone outputs support separate monitoring for a host and guest, while USB-C connects to a Mac or PC and Bluetooth can accommodate a compatible phone or other device. For computer-free recording, use compatible microSDHC or microSDXC media, or a FAT32-formatted USB-A removable drive meeting Mackie's stated speed requirement.