How do you create a single, unified audio signature when you need to magnify the sound of a wide range of instruments? Every musician needs good audio mixers in their arsenal to ensure their performances sound clear and balanced. An audio mixer is one of the essential equipment you can acquire, whether performing live or recording.
Do you know what sort of mixer to get? Depending on your budget and requirements, this is either the $100 or $1,000 question. Several pricing points are available for both enthusiasts and pros for sound mixers.
Even though they all include a variety of instruments and sound sources, you may find one or more of them more beneficial than the others, depending on your needs.
When deciding what you need, having a shopping list is helpful. That’s where we come in. This audio mixer buying guide and review culminate many hours of study to help you save both time and money on your next mixer.
If you’re on the market for a new audio mixer or want to replace an old one, our buyer’s guide will show you which functions are most vital and which ones you can do without. Continue reading to learn more about audio mixers and how they may help you create better-sounding audio projects.
Roundup of the Best Audio Mixers
| Overall Best | Yamaha MG20XU 20-Input 6-Bus USB Interface Mixer |
| Best for Home Studios | Behringer Xenyx X1204USB Mixer |
| Best for Small Gigs | Yamaha MG10XU 10-Input Stereo Mixer |
| Best for Versatility | Mackie ProFX12v3 12-channel Mixer |
| Best Compact Digital Mixer | Behringer FLOW 8 8-Input Digital Mixer |
| Best for Professional Use | Midas MR12 12-Input Digital Mixer |
| Best for Medium-Sized Venues | Mackie ProFX16v3 16-channel Mixer |
| Best for Sound Quality | Soundcraft FX16ii Professional Compact |
| Best for Creators | Mackie DLZ Creator 12-Channel Digital Mixer |
What Does an Audio Mixer Do?
When many instruments are connected and amplified, they often need a central source to manage volume levels and effects. Otherwise, specific instruments would be louder than others, throwing the whole ensemble off.
The primary purpose of an audio mixer is to receive, combine, process, and monitor sounds. An audio mixer connects all electrically powered instruments and microphones in a recording session and manages multiple inputs.
You may adjust the overall balance between distinct sounds using the various settings for changing volume and applying effects. For example, you can swap audio mixers on-the-fly, one of their best features.
What Are the Types of Audio Mixers?
Audio mixing is a vast and fascinating field. Musicians of the highest caliber continuously search for the latest and greatest audio mixers. When it comes to audio quality, a sound mixer should be able to handle anything from live concerts to television sets and recording studios.
Live sound mixers are available in various configurations on the market these days. But the three most common are analog, digital, and powered audio mixers. There are benefits and drawbacks to each. Here, you will learn to choose the best mixer for your application.
1. Analog Mixers
A traditional analog mixer is what most people envision when they think of a mixing desk. It has a conventional design and a very cohesive structure, so anybody who knows how to use a mixing desk can pick one up and get started.
Analog electronics control analog mixers. Each function has its control, all visible and accessible on the control panel.
You can observe what’s going on in the mixer fast and make changes as needed. These mixers are ideal for live and studio sound and have more inputs and routing options.
The sizes of these mixing consoles range from those that are nearly pocketable to those that are suitable for professional use.
Analog mixers are less expensive than digital mixers in general. Nonetheless, they lack the type of automation that complex settings may need. Furthermore, they lack wireless remote control, necessitating constant attendance at the board.
Also, analog mixers have fewer sound effects onboard than digital mixers. Therefore, you will need to purchase separate gear if you want powerful audio effects and sound processing systems.
2. Digital Mixers
Digital mixers provide a greater number of control options. For example, setup may be pre-programmed, saved, and recalled, which is helpful if you regularly perform with the same band. It is also beneficial if you need to make a last-minute setup modification during the event.
Wireless connection is standard on most digital mixers, allowing remote operation through an iPad or smartphone. It implies you don’t have to stay put the whole time. For example, you may roam about the room while mixing music or recording a stereo mix on your phone or tablet, guaranteeing that the audience hears music everywhere.
In many digital mixers, each channel has additional onboard sound effects. To gain richer sound effects and sophisticated signal processing functions, you don’t need to acquire additional audio equipment.
Making any modifications in a digital mixer, on the other hand, might be difficult if you are not familiar with it because you must first navigate through multiple menu choices on the touchscreen before making any adjustments to a single channel. If you wish to make any changes at once, you’ll need to pre-program them for quicker access.
3. Powered Mixers
Powered mixers are a different form of audio mixers. An analog mixer with power amplifiers built-in is a powered mixer. Most powered mixers have two amplifier channels, and you can connect them to two speakers at a time or with one speaker and one monitor.
They’re typically simple to set up and operate, and relatively portable.
Line-level outputs on powered mixers make adding extra powered speakers and monitor easy.
4. Summing and Line Mixers
As their name suggests, line mixers are responsible for mixing signals at the line level. However, they almost always have an analog design and are relatively straightforward, typically offering only a single volume control for each channel. ‘
When used in live situations, you can connect a line mixer can be connected to multiple players to supply music in between sets while simultaneously clearing channels on the main mixer.
Summing mixers are typically analog in design, and you can use them in studio settings to consolidate and tweak final mixes. They inject warmth into the output of final digital mixes, which some engineers regard as cold. ‘
For example, you can create the analog-like warmth using tube technology, typically associated with older recording technologies can be recreated using tube technology, which you can find in some high-end summing mixers.
Top 9 Audio Mixers on the Market
If you want to make music as good as possible, you need the most talented engineers and mixers at your disposal. You’ll need the right mixer in your control room, whether utilizing a mixer for digital mixing or live sound.
We’ve compiled a list of the top 9 audio mixers for 2024. You may use this guide to pick the right audio mixer for your purposes, whether you’re recording for a big or small performance or just for your music collection at home.
1. Yamaha MG20XU 20-Input 6-Bus USB Interface Mixer
Overall Best
What Impressed Us
- Excellent sound quality with high-resolution audio support
- Robust build quality with smooth controls
- Versatile input options and bus configuration
- Includes Yamaha’s SPX digital effects processor
- Suitable for both portable and permanent installations
What Disappointed Us
- No significant differences in sound quality compared to other models in the same range
- Some users may find the interface and controls complex
We chose the Yamaha MG20XU as the overall best audio mixer due to its comprehensive feature set and outstanding performance. This mixer is perfect for both live sound and studio applications, offering a range of inputs and advanced effects that cater to professional needs.
The MG20XU excels in overall use, providing 20 inputs and six buses, making it versatile enough for complex setups. The built-in SPX effects, including reverb and delay, enhance sound quality, while the one-knob compressors on select channels simplify dynamic control. Its high-quality preamps ensure clean and clear audio, making it a reliable choice for any audio setup.
In addition to its impressive functionality, the MG20XU is built to last with a robust metal chassis and intuitive interface. The USB interface allows for easy recording and playback, integrating seamlessly with DAWs for studio use. Whether you’re mixing live performances or recording in the studio, the MG20XU offers unparalleled versatility and sound quality.
In conclusion, the Yamaha MG20XU is the best choice for those seeking a powerful and flexible audio mixer. Its advanced features, durable build, and superior sound quality make it a top-tier option for professionals.
View on Amazon: Yamaha MG20XU 20-Input 6-Bus USB Interface Mixer
2. Behringer Xenyx X1204USB Mixer
Best for Home Studios
What Impressed Us
- Excellent noise-canceling capabilities
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Intuitive controls and smart technologies
- Good sound quality with a balanced signature
- Long battery life
What Disappointed Us
- Plastic-and-leatherette build may not be as durable as metal-enhanced alternatives
The Behringer Xenyx X1204USB is our top pick for home studios due to its affordability and solid performance. This mixer provides all the essential features needed for home recording and small live setups, making it an excellent choice for musicians and podcasters.
The Xenyx X1204USB excels in providing clear and detailed audio with its Xenyx mic preamps and “British” EQs, which add warmth and musicality to the sound. The built-in USB interface allows for easy integration with your computer, making recording straightforward. The mixer also includes built-in effects, such as reverb and delay, to enhance your recordings.
In addition to its great sound quality, the X1204USB is user-friendly and compact, making it easy to fit into any home studio setup. Its intuitive layout ensures quick and easy operation, even for beginners. The sturdy build quality ensures it can withstand regular use.
In summary, the Behringer Xenyx X1204USB is the best choice for home studios. Its combination of affordability, performance, and ease of use makes it an excellent option for those starting their recording journey.
View on Amazon: Behringer Xenyx X1204USB Mixer
3. Yamaha MG10XU 10-Input Stereo Mixer
Best for Small Gigs
What Impressed Us
- High-quality preamps with clean and crisp sound
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability
- Advanced features like USB connectivity, digital effects, and one-knob inline compressor
- Balanced XLR stereo outputs for professional-grade sound
- Custom mic stand adapter for convenient placement
What Disappointed Us
- Limited number of XLR inputs (four) compared to other mixers in its class
- No pre-fader AUX sends, which may limit its flexibility for certain applications
The Yamaha MG10XU is our choice for the best mixer for small gigs due to its compact size and reliable performance. This mixer is perfect for solo artists, small bands, and acoustic performances in intimate venues.
The MG10XU excels in providing high-quality audio with its D-PRE mic preamps, ensuring clear and natural sound reproduction. The built-in SPX effects add versatility, allowing performers to enhance their sound with reverb, chorus, and more. The mixer also includes a USB interface for easy recording and playback.
In addition to its excellent sound quality, the MG10XU is compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport and set up. Its robust construction ensures durability, while the intuitive layout allows for quick and easy operation. The one-knob compressors on select channels provide simple dynamic control, making it easy to achieve a polished sound.
In conclusion, the Yamaha MG10XU is the best choice for small gigs. Its combination of portability, sound quality, and user-friendly features makes it an ideal mixer for live performances in intimate settings.
View on Amazon: Yamaha MG10XU 10-Input Stereo Mixer
4. Mackie ProFX12v3 12-channel Mixer
Best for Versatility
What Impressed Us
- High-quality Onyx mic preamps for clear signal and low noise
- Comprehensive effects engine with 24 high-resolution effects
- Built-in channel compression and 3-band EQ for precise sound shaping
- 24-bit/192kHz A/D converter for high-quality audio
- Affordable price point for its features and quality
What Disappointed Us
- Limited to 7 microphone preamps, with channels 5-12 being stereo channels
- Some users may find the effects engine limited for extensive recording and mixing
The Mackie ProFX12v3 stands out as the best for versatility due to its wide range of features and high-quality sound. This mixer is suitable for various applications, from live performances to studio recording, making it a valuable tool for any audio professional.
The ProFX12v3 excels in delivering clear and detailed audio with its Onyx mic preamps and GigFX effects engine, which provides 24 built-in effects, including reverb, delay, and chorus. The mixer also features a 2×4 USB interface, allowing for easy recording and playback with your computer.
In addition to its versatile features, the ProFX12v3 is built for durability with a rugged design that can withstand the demands of live performances. The mixer’s intuitive layout and high-contrast controls make it easy to operate in any environment. The one-knob compressors on select channels provide simple yet effective dynamic control.
In summary, the Mackie ProFX12v3 is the best choice for those seeking a versatile mixer. Its wide range of features, durable build, and high-quality sound make it suitable for a variety of audio applications.
View on Amazon: Mackie ProFX12v3 12-channel Mixer
5. Behringer FLOW 8 8-Input Digital Mixer
Best Compact Digital Mixer
What Impressed Us
- ompact and lightweight design
- Affordable price
- Feature-rich with eight inputs, six faders, and multiple outputs
- USB connectivity and remote control via Bluetooth
- Suitable for small to medium-sized shows, live streaming, and podcasting
- EZ-GAIN feature simplifies gain adjustments
What Disappointed Us
- Micro USB power connection may be a weak point
- Limited parametric EQ capabilities
The Behringer FLOW 8 is our top pick for the best compact digital mixer due to its powerful features and portability. This mixer is perfect for musicians and audio engineers who need a compact solution without sacrificing functionality.
The FLOW 8 excels in providing high-quality audio with its MIDAS-designed preamps and 32-bit floating-point DSP. The mixer includes built-in Bluetooth for wireless audio streaming and control via the FLOW Mix app, offering convenience and flexibility. The FLOW 8 also features a USB interface for easy recording and playback.
In addition to its excellent audio quality, the FLOW 8 is compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport and set up. Its robust construction ensures durability, while the intuitive touch-sensitive controls and high-resolution color display provide a user-friendly experience.
In conclusion, the Behringer FLOW 8 is the best choice for those seeking a compact digital mixer. Its powerful features, portability, and ease of use make it an excellent option for both live performances and studio recording.
View on Amazon: Behringer FLOW 8 8-Input Digital Mixer
6. Midas MR12 12-Input Digital Mixer
Best for Professional Use
What Impressed Us
- High-quality sound with transparent preamps and advanced DSP capabilities
- Compact and portable design with flexible connectivity options
- Auto mixing and effects processing capabilities
- Supports wireless control via iOS and Android apps
- Includes a stereo digital recorder and multiple aux buses
What Disappointed Us
- May be more expensive than some other digital mixers
- Requires a tablet or computer for control
The Midas MR12 is our choice for the best mixer for professional use due to its advanced features and exceptional sound quality. This mixer is ideal for professional audio engineers and musicians who require top-tier performance and reliability.
The MR12 excels in providing pristine audio with its MIDAS-designed preamps and 40-bit floating-point DSP. The mixer offers advanced connectivity options, including 4 XLR outputs, AES50 network ports, and built-in Wi-Fi for wireless control. The mixer’s powerful processing capabilities include EQ, dynamics, and effects on every channel.
In addition to its superior sound quality, the MR12 is designed for durability with a rugged metal chassis. The mixer’s compact size makes it easy to transport and set up, while the intuitive interface and comprehensive control options ensure a seamless user experience.
In summary, the Midas MR12 is the best choice for professional use. Its advanced features, exceptional sound quality, and robust design make it a reliable and high-performing mixer for demanding audio applications.
View on Amazon: Midas MR12 12-Input Digital Mixer
7. Mackie ProFX16v3 16-channel Mixer
Best for Medium-Sized Venues
What Impressed Us
- High-quality Onyx preamps with Hi-Z
- Revamped GigFX section with improved effects
- Rugged and durable build
- Excellent sound quality
- Easy to use
- USB connectivity for computer recording
- Portable and versatile for live and studio applications
What Disappointed Us
- Limited Send/Returns
- Basic 3-Band EQ
- No master inserts
We selected the Mackie ProFX16v3 16-channel Mixer as the best for medium-sized venues due to its extensive features and reliable performance. This mixer is ideal for live performances in larger settings, providing high-quality sound and versatile connectivity.
The ProFX16v3 excels with its 16 channels, including 11 Onyx mic preamps that deliver clear and dynamic sound. The built-in GigFX effects engine offers 24 effects, allowing you to add depth and dimension to your mix. The USB interface enables easy recording and playback, making it a versatile tool for both live and studio use.
In addition to its robust performance, the ProFX16v3 is designed for durability with a rugged build and intuitive controls. The one-knob compressors and 3-band EQs provide precise control over your sound, ensuring professional-quality results. The mixer also features a graphic EQ for the main outputs, enhancing its flexibility for various audio applications.
In conclusion, the Mackie ProFX16v3 is the best choice for medium-sized venues. Its combination of extensive features, reliable performance, and durable design makes it an excellent tool for live sound reinforcement in larger settings.
View on Amazon: Mackie ProFX16v3 16-channel Mixer
8. Soundcraft FX16ii Professional Compact
Best for Sound Quality
What Impressed Us
- High-quality, warm mic preamps
- Powerful and intuitive EQ
- High-quality, editable effects with a wide range of settings
- Flexible signal routing and direct outputs for multi-track recording
- Compact and rugged design with optional rack-mounting
- Competitive pricing
What Disappointed Us
- May require some learning curve for beginners due to its extensive feature set
- No major drawbacks reported by users
The Soundcraft FX16ii Professional Compact stands out as the best for sound quality due to its exceptional audio performance and advanced features. We selected this mixer for its ability to deliver pristine sound with clarity and precision.
The FX16ii excels with its 16 mono inputs, each equipped with a GB30 mic preamp that provides clear and detailed audio. The built-in Lexicon effects engine offers 32 effects, enhancing your mix with high-quality reverb, delay, and modulation effects. The mixer’s robust EQ section allows for precise tonal shaping, ensuring a balanced and polished sound.
In addition to its superior sound quality, the FX16ii features a compact and durable design, making it suitable for both studio and live applications. The mixer’s flexible routing options and direct outputs provide versatility for various audio setups. Its intuitive layout ensures ease of use, allowing you to focus on achieving the best sound possible.
In summary, the Soundcraft FX16ii is the best choice for those seeking top-tier sound quality. Its exceptional audio performance, advanced features, and versatile design make it an outstanding tool for professional audio engineers and musicians.
View on Amazon: Soundcraft FX16ii Professional Compact
9. Mackie DLZ Creator 12-channel Digital Mixer
Best for Creators
What Impressed Us
- High-quality touch display with anti-glare coating
- Multiple input options for flexibility
- Onyx80 mic preamps with high gain
- Flexible recording and playback options
- Professional audio processing capabilities
What Disappointed Us
- Some users find the single multitrack file format limiting
- Audio quality can be affected by the need for additional gain boosters
The Mackie DLZ Creator 12-channel Digital Mixer stands out as the best for creators due to its innovative features and user-friendly design. We selected this mixer for its ability to meet the needs of content creators, podcasters, and musicians.
The DLZ Creator excels with its 12 channels, including high-quality Onyx mic preamps that deliver clear and dynamic sound. The mixer’s digital interface and touchscreen control make it easy to navigate and adjust settings. The built-in effects and processing options provide flexibility for various creative applications, allowing you to enhance your audio with professional-quality effects.
In addition to its innovative features, the DLZ Creator is designed for ease of use with an intuitive interface and customizable presets. The mixer’s compact and portable design makes it suitable for both studio and on-the-go use. The USB connectivity allows for seamless integration with digital recording and streaming setups, making it a versatile tool for modern creators.
In summary, the Mackie DLZ Creator is the best choice for content creators. Its innovative features, user-friendly design, and high-quality sound make it an essential tool for anyone involved in audio production and content creation.
View on Amazon: Mackie DLZ Creator 12-Channel Digital Mixer
Frequently Asked Questions About Audio Mixers
Live performances and other scenarios where many microphones and equipment are used concurrently need the use of mixers, which are particularly useful. Moreover, you can use the mixers to modify the audio coming from a single microphone or instrument. Because of the mixer’s high quality, there is no need to be concerned about anyone sound dominating the others.
Audio mixers, like every other kind of audio equipment, can alter the quality of the audio signals sent via them. You will find that the gain stages, A/D and D/A converters (digital mixers), and signal pathways, in general, affect the coloring of sound generated by audio mixers. Mixers also allow for adjusting levels, panning, effects, and more.
A mixer of high quality will provide you access to a wide variety of extra capabilities, many of which may enhance the performance of active speakers. However, it is likely to have numerous distinct channels, each of which you can mix to make the final mix. These channels will allow the user to tune the bass, mid-range, and treble.
Streamers use mixers for various reasons, the most important of which being that these pieces of equipment provide content producers complete command over their audio.
Streaming is quite similar to managing production. Having a high production value and quality will help you attract more viewers and maintain the ones you already have, and a significant aspect of production value is audio. So, for example, if a viewer clicks on your stream and quickly sees that your sound quality is subpar, there is a good chance that they will never revisit your channel.
A capable mixer may have a significant impact on the sound quality of your broadcast as a whole.
Yes, they do, but you can only mix it with the device you’re using to plug in the USB. The headphones have a built-in amplifier, limiting your ability to alter the sound. This is how it works: a USB port -a wireless transceiver -the air- your headphones- an audio amplifier, and then speakers or a microphone.
You can use the mixer as you desire if you purchase a wired headset.
No, all audio mixers do not count as audio interfaces. It all depends on the model you have. So, for example, if your mixer already has a USB port built-in, you do not need an interface. You’ll need an interface if you already have a standalone mixing console that has no USB output and wish to record on your computer. Lastly, if you wish to record more than two audio sources but only have an interface that supports two channels, one solution would be to invest in a compact mixing console so that you may expand your recording capabilities.
Compared to an audio interface, a USB interface mixer will often come equipped with a greater number of physical controllers. But, on the other hand, you will rarely record anything other than a stereo stream coming from a USB mixer. This stream will be a combination of all of your audio inputs.
Final Words
We hope our reviews help you find the best audio mixer for your needs. After analyzing the options, we highly recommend the Yamaha MG20XU and the Mackie ProFX16v3.
The Yamaha MG20XU stands out with its extensive input options, reliable performance, and exceptional sound quality, making it perfect for large venues and complex setups. Its durable design and comprehensive features ensure professional-quality results every time.
The Mackie ProFX16v3 excels in versatility and is ideal for medium-sized venues. It offers high-quality sound, robust build, and a range of effects that make it a reliable choice for both live performances and studio recordings.
Both mixers provide excellent performance and reliability, ensuring you get the best audio
Happy Mixing!
