Check out our best podcasting mixer table below.
ContentsUsb Mixer For Mac
The XENYX X2222USB - 22-Input USB Audio Mixer with Effects from Behringer is a 22-input audio mixer with an integrated USB computer audio interface. It enables you to mix together and shape the sound of multiple audio signals, and route the audio to several outputs. Behringer Xenyx X2222USB. This story, 'Yamaha introduces Mac compatible USB mixers' was originally published by PCWorld Note: When you purchase something after clicking links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. Usb audio mixer free download - Acoustica MP3 Audio Mixer, Easy MP3 Audio Mixer, ConvexSoft DJ Audio Mixer, and many more programs. +15dBu Main Mix Outputs: Maximum Gain 55dB (Mic), 37dB (Instrument), 5dB (CH3 & CH4) USB Computer Interface: USB Class Compliant plug-and-play Mac / PC Interface: Power: Via USB or 5VDC @ 500mA: Dimensions: 1.75″H x 5.1″W x 7.5″D (45mm x 130mm x 191mm). TRANSFER: You may not rent, lease, lend, sell, redistribute, sublicense or provide commercial hosting services with the Software. You may, however, make a one-time permanent transfer of all of your license rights to the Software to another end user in connection with the transfer of ownership of your Product, provided that: (i) the transfer must include your Product and all of the Software.
2.1 Samson MXP124FX – Podcast Mixer 2.1.1 Click here for more information On This Mixer.
2.2 Under $100 – Behringer Q802USB Mixer 2.2.1 Click here for more information.
2.3 PROFX8V2 8-Channel Compact with USB and Effects Mixer 2.3.1 Click here for more informationr.
2.4 Mackie 402VLZ4 Mixer 2.4.1 Click here for more information.
2.5 Behringer X1832USB Mixer 2.5.1 Click here for more information.
2.6 Behringer X1204USB Mixer 2.6.1 Click here for more information.
2.7 Allen & Heath Zed-12FX Mixer
4.1 Mixer channels – How many do you need? 4.2 Do you want the ability to add special effects? 4.3 Do you need to include other audio devices for inputs? 4.4 How much do you want to spend? 4.5 Used or new? 4.6 What types of input and output connections do you need?
5.0.1 Click here to see our Podcast mixer recommendation. 5.0.1.1 Podcast Mixers 5.0.1.1.1 Mixers podcasting
Podcasting is a great way to do some great experimental stuff. There are a number of different podcasting tricks that can be done in order to enhance the listening experience, and thus increase the value of the best episode. It is just a matter of obtaining the top audio mixer for podcasting, and that usually means a USB option. When it comes to choosing the best podcast mixer there are some basics to keep in mind, but that extra concern can be well worth the extra effort. Given what it can mean for your podcast, it may be well worth the investment in a mixer for your production studio. There are many different mixers for podcasts on the market these days so hopefully this will give you the best idea on which of these podcast mixers to choose.
Are You Sure A Mixer Is Right For Your Setup?
When you are just starting out, there sometimes can be some confusion on whether or not to go with a one of these podcast mixers or an audio interface to buy from Amazon. If you are sure that this is best for you, continue on at your budget. If not, maybe take a look at our mixer vs audio interface article here first.
The Top Podcasting Mixers I Recommend
ImageNameMore InfoOur Top Choice!Samson MXP124FX12 Channels, USB interface, 99 digital effects, phantom power.#2 Choice (Under $100!)Behringer Q802USBXENYX Mic Preamps, professional sound on a budget, 3-band EQ's and more!
Runners Up:
PROFX8V2 8-Channel CompactAvailable in different channel numbers, 7 band EQ, ReadyFX effects, 100Hz low-cut filters.
Mackie 402VLZ44-channel mixing board, Onyx mic preamps, high-headroom/low-noise design.
Behringer X1832USBPremium analog, studio-grade FX processor, 6 studio-grade compressors, phantom-powered XENYX Mic Preamps.
Behringer X1204USBAnalog, 16 editable presets, 'one-knob' functionality, boutique preamps.
Samson MXP124FX – Podcast Mixer
These podcast mixers have high-quality effects and a built-in USB. You can record your podcast mixers by connecting the Samson MXP124FX to your computer with the USB. It has got a 3-band EQ on every channel, and it produces the best sound for studio and stage mixes. This high-quality mixer is affordable and easier to use. Functionality and design merge excellently on this high quality and suitable mixer.
Recording Mixes
With its in-built USB feature, you can record by connecting the Samson MXP124FX podcast mixer to your computer. Use the DAW software, such as Audacity, for easy and simple recording of a podcast guest.
Effects
This mixer has 100 inbuilt, high-quality podcast effects with a 24-bit solution to choose from. With these best studio-quality effects, you are covered for;
- Delays
- Reverbs
- Tremolo
- Chorus
Applications
These mixers have small format mixing applications like a podcast. It has four preamplifier microphones and phantom power. Each input has high pass filters. Other podcast applications include four stereo line inputs, four monoline inputs, one knob compressor, drum overheads and best podcast vocals.
Features
- USB connection
- 100 inbuilt effects
- One-knob compressors
- 3-band EQ
- 12 channels
- Four microphone preamplifiers
Pros
- Small sized and affordable
- Four clean microphone preamplifiers
- Two one-knob audio compressors
- Can do the mix-minus setup
Cons
- The USB out has 16 bit AD converter. 24 bit AD converter would be more superior and best.
Conclusion
These mixers are best for recording podcasts and video calls with a guest. With it, you get a mixer that perfectly combines size and features. It is easy to carry around and comfortable place on your desk.
Click here for more information On This Mixer.
Under $100 – Behringer Q802USB Mixer
Today, a lot of individuals show their best interest in music or podcasts. While some folks wish to pursue a career in podcasts, others love mixing multiple sounds to cherish something new in their past time. If you are one among these enthusiasts, you may want to invest in a good quality podcasting mixer such as the Behringer Q802USB mixer.
Specifications and features
Behringer’s Q802USB mixer is a premium low noise podcast mixer. This high headroom mixer comes with 2 state of the art XENYX mics preamps just like stand-alone best boutique preamps. You also get studio grade compressors that come with an easier one-knob functionality and control LED for best instrument and vocal sounds.
Pros
- One of the best things about Q802USB mixers is it is fairly easy and basic to use. No matter whether you want to use it with PC or Mac via USB, just plug the podcast mixer and you are all set to play the mixer.
- It can accommodate both condenser as well as dynamic microphones. These mixers work well with any streaming software for a podcast.
- Budget friendly.
Cons
If used for a long time, it gets heated. Also, the circuitry is a bit noisy. Despite these drawbacks, Q802USB delivers a great sound quality at a minimal price.
Final words
A top-notch best mixer such as the Behringer Q802USB podcast mixers can do wonders for you when mixing multiple sounds at your home or recording studio. Affordability, clean and best podcast sound, great add-ons, etc are some of the striking features and benefits of this fantastic choice. This is why many music and podcast lovers choose to buy Q802USB for enhanced sound mixing and better output quality.
Need more channels, consider the Behringer Xenyx Q1202USB.
Click here for more information.
PROFX8V2 8-Channel Compact with USB and Effects Mixer
Having the right equipment is key for producing the best mix of beats that can get your audience moving. Mackie is the premiere name in sound quality and mixing technology. We provide a full range of mixers, faders, loudspeakers, studio monitoring devices, portable PA systems, Bluetooth speakers, podcast headphones and other audio tools for podcasts.
The Mackie PROFX8V2 mixer is a comprehensive and cutting edge sound solution featuring brand new Vita preamplifiers for unparalleled podcast sound quality.
Vita preamps are designed exclusively for best live podcast sound. They are noiseless, and sport a low profile Class-A front end design. Other notable elements include dual feedback and bias current stabilization.
ReadFX Engine
The cutting edge ReadyFX engine utilizes floating-point DSP and is made for aggressive processing of top-notch audio. This produces rich and inspiring performance that any podcast audience will love.
Live Mixing Tool Kit
Every ProFX mixers model comes standard with an audio tool kit. Users get multi-band graphic equalization, channel inserts, and FX mute that is foot switchable.
USB Playback and Recording
The Mackie ProFX mixers feature a built-in USB interface for mixing or recording during live shows. Tracktion recording software that is easy to use and intuitive helps you make sick beats not matter where you’re performing. Great for podcasts!
If you’re looking to take your recording podcasts and mixing skills to the next level, the Mackie PROFX8V2 has all the power and versatility you need. With multiple features and cutting edge sound technology, it has everything you need to be a podcast mix master.
More mixer channels needed? Try the Mackie ProFX 16.
Click here for more informationr.
Mackie 402VLZ4 Mixer
If you are in the market to buy a top-rated analog podcast mixer, you may want to check out the Mackie 402VLZ4. Beyond sounding great, the 402VLZ4 is one piece of gear that you can depend on. With the , you get an amazingly dynamic range, 60DB gain range on Onyx microphone amplifiers and pretty low noise performance.
Specifications and features
It is a 4-channel podcast mixer that features a high-headroom/low noise design of Mackie. You also get 2 boutique quality Onyx mic preamps for some best enhanced mixing and recording. These mixers are built like a tank for maximum usability, it is capable of recording podcasts and mixing multiple sound variety.
Pros
The main benefit of 402VLZ4 is it produces the best wonderful sound. With smooth controls, you can adjust and change the levels and mix at any given time without any issue. Above all, the product is highly durable as it is made of steel to last for a long time.
Cons
To mount it on a mic stand, you need to have screws that are not provided with the package; users find this a bit annoying. Also, some users think that the price is a bit more. Aside from these simple flaws, there are no known drawbacks.
Closing words
Mackie 402VLZ4 is an ideal podcast mixer for blending a range of sounds to create unique music that you want. Durable built, modest price range, clean and crisp sound quality are some of the fantastic features of this analog mixer. This is why it is highly recommended by majority of music and best podcast professionals.
Click here for more information.
Behringer X1832USB Mixer
The Behringer X1832USB is a mixer that makes mixing 14 channels (maximum) of audio at an affordable price possible. The initial six channels offer Xenyx mic preamps, along with four stereo channels. The two-bus design facilitates routing signals to another source. The X1832USB also makes you sound ideal, thanks to the three-band EQs and one knob compression. The FBQ system for feedback detection helps with identifying the odd frequencies so that you could take control over them.
Sound Features
Live sound engineers understand a quality compressor’s significance. The Behringer X1832USB podcast mixer makes compressing easy, thanks to its six channels faders that come with one-knob compression. Adjust the compressor as per your best requirements after having set the best signal levels so that signal-level management becomes easy. The multi-effects, 24-bit processor lets you add professional touches, such as delay, reverb, chorus, and echo, to your mixes and vocals for a podcast.
Recording and Playback
The X1832USB’s mixers ability to connect and hook with your computer is a bonus feature, both on stage and within the studio. Inside the studio, you may record the X1832USB’s stereo output to pretty much any recording software. You could also do audio playback from your computer via the mixer. The X1832USB, for live use, makes mixing and recording the podcasts simultaneously easy.
Pros
- Excellent audio mixers performance
- A compact and versatile mixer
- Great connectivity options
- Small on budget.
Cons
- May not pack in all the power you need
Conclusion
If your acoustic requirements are fairly modest and you do not want to compromise on the best podcast sound quality and connectivity, the X1832USB mixer is what you should be looking at.
Click here for more information.
Behringer X1204USB Mixer
If you are searching for a feature-heavy option at an affordable price, take a look at the X1204USB. The product comes fully equipped with all that is needed to keep you rolling in the world of music. If you are still skeptic about this great mixer, read the below review.
Specifications and features
Behringer xenyx X1204 podcast mixer is a 12 input option with a computer (integrated) audio interface. It offers two stereo channels and four mono channels, making it best for smaller jobs like a podcast. You will find two aux sends on each of the mono channels for routing individual channels to stage monitors and/or external effects.
Pros
It is a high headroom analog mixer with a low noise. The built-in engine effects processor includes 16 presets that come with chorus, reverb, delay, pitch shifter, flanger and multi-effects. You can mix and shape multiple podcast audio signals’ sound together, and route the final audio to various outputs effortlessly.
Cons
Some users have reported that the driver support is not a dedicated one. Also, the mixer does not interact much with DAWS. Aside from these minor flaws, the product is a good choice for beginners looking for top notch mixers with a low price tag.
Bottom line
Whether you are a professional podcast studio recorder or an amateur, you need a good quality option such as the X1204USB that can blend everything you need to create a great music. By expending a minimal amount, you can own something best for small applications. Check out its features, pros and cons mentioned above in view of your requirements, and you will never repent on your purchase.
Click here for more information.
Allen & Heath Zed-12FX Mixer
Buying a good quality podcast sound mixer is pretty difficult due to the existence of so many mixer brands in the market. You ought to be very careful when choosing a mixer for sound mixing. If you are really interested in a best class that returns good value for your money, consider buying Allen & Heath Zed-12FX.
Specifications and features
The Zed-12FX comes with a lot of features including 6 mic/line inputs and 4 auxiliary sends. Other features include a USB I/O with the sonar software and 100MM professional faders. It also has 3 band equalizers with sweep mids for creating mind blowing mixes.
Pros
Zed-12FX delivers what it says – it mixes sound cleanly and produces good quality output to your fullest satisfaction. The settings are easy to get the presets. Also, the pre-amps are clean and easy to use. With a sturdy built and appealing look, it easily drives potential buyers to take a look at the product.
Cons
Some buyers have reported that it comes with a poor instruction manual. Also, users tend to lose channels on send/return occasionally. In spite of these minor drawbacks, it is highly recommended for its innovative features and varied benefits.
Closing thoughts
Picking the right mixer for a podcast need not be a chore if you are aware of top of the line mixers such as Allen & Heath Zed-12FX. Just go through the pros and cons in the light of your podcast requirements. Within no time, you will be able to recoup your investment in terms of best mixing and clearer podcast sound quality that you ever wished.
Here are some more podcast mixer options as well:
- Mackie Onyx 1220i podcast mixer
If you are looking for other options, keep reading…or check out this best podcasting mixer article.
What Does An Audio USB Mixer Do For A Podcast?
First off, it is important to realize what a podcast mixer does. In the simplest sense it is an electronic device that allows for the combining and modification of sounds. At the minimum it can be used to clean up audio tracks and make them sound clearer, as well as eliminating a number of minor audio problems. It can also be used to create special effects, combine and modify tracks, and any number of audio tricks. By using one, a podcaster can make any number of adjustments to his podcasts audio, and have a lot of fun when it comes to their sound.
![For For](/uploads/1/2/7/7/127769931/267265798.jpg)
With that in mind we can explore what it can do for a podcast. For those running an interview show, it means that the interviewer and interviewee can be assigned different tracks, which can actually add some additional clarity, especially if the recording is done as a stereo track and rigged so that one voice is heard in one ear and the other voice in the other. Any music and special effects can be set on its own track so that it be shared control between the two tracks when the audio is combined.
Greatest Options To Consider In A USB Mixer
Mixer channels – How many do you need?
This is actually a fairly easy question to answer. Basically, how many mics are you going to be using to record a live episode. Let’s say you use one podcast mic and headphone per person. You’ll need that many channels. However, I wold highly recommend that you buy something that has more than you need in case you need more later and don’t want to have to upgrade or buy a new one.
Do you want the ability to add special effects?
An important option to look at is the ability to create special effects. For most podcasts it may not be that important, but for others it can add some fun to the experience. For example, it can be used as simply as adding censor bleeps or even drum rolls. In the hands of someone who knows what they are really doing, a number of different effects ranging from storms to closing doors can be added to heighten the drama or for humorous effect. In short, sounds can be added to make the podcast more appealing to the listener, thus adding value to the best experience.
Do you need to include other audio devices for inputs?
A podcast mixer can also be used to tie in other audio devices to the computer so that they can be used to add additional sounds and other effects. For those that compose and play their own music, this means that electronic music can be added. While the obvious is an electronic keyboard, a drum machine or electric guitars are other options; the individual tracks can be recorded, modified as desired, and then added together with a mixer. This music can then be added to provide either filler, breaks, or even accompaniment to a podcast audio play.
Let’s look at an audio play for a moment. It can be used to modify the voices used in the play, as well as any foley work such as slamming doors and shattering glass. A lot of music can be added as well, such as dramatic piano music or even background music. A low frequency sound can even be added for a little extra fear. It is even possible to have different voices heard on different ears so as to allow a listener to really follow a conversation. While this is an extreme example, it is nonetheless worth considering what it can do and then best applying that to your podcast.
How much do you want to spend?
When looking at one, it is important to consider what you will be using it for and how much you are willing to pay. The price is less of a factor than you might suppose but it may be useful to help limit options. With that as the cap, it is also important to debate what it will be used for and what you have planned for it. Keep in mind that most people will never use every possible option provided by a podcast mixer, and thus it is very useful to consider exactly what you need the mixer for. Once you have a best idea what you will be using the mixers for you can begin looking in earnest.
Used or new?
There are some other considerations that need to be debated. The condition is one, as used mixers are cheaper but are more prone to breaking down. An older option will also be cheaper, but may not have the connections that you need. However, there may be some great mixer options when it comes to older used versions that may make them worth the issues that they carry with them. As such remember to look carefully at whatever mixer you end up looking at, and be very careful before you put down any money when choosing the best podcast mixers.
What types of input and output connections do you need?
Be very careful when it comes to the podcast mixer connections that it has. While it is a given that you will be looking for at least a USB connection, keep in mind what other devices will be connected to the mixer. For those attaching musical instruments make sure that those connections are there. Make sure that all of the connections work; there is nothing worse than finding a mixer to record that looks like it works best only to find out it does not.
Podcast Mixer – Ready To Choose Your USB?
It can be you best friend if you know how to use it. Just remember that when choosing the greatest podcast USB mixer for podcasting there are a wide range of options available to you, and that you need to know which best podcast options you are looking for when it comes to dealing with a podcasting mixer, as opposed to an interface for your podcasts. Once you know which options are important it is just a matter of applying those to the mixer you want and grabbing the most important features. Your audio will definitely be the better for it, so make sure that you have the audio podcast mixer for your podcast studio kit you want.
Click here to see our Podcast mixer recommendation.
Podcast Mixers
Mixers podcasting
Hope you liked these podcast mixers for podcasting suggestions!
An oft forgotten piece of equipment for audio recording, especially podcasts, is a quality audio mixer. For many podcasters without the luxury of studio equipment, this typically means an audio USB mixer to edit and record your podcast. A good USB mixer will help balance the sound levels, EQ, gain, and overall give you a better grasp of your audio output so you can continue creating a great podcast.
So while many new and experience podcasters focus their investment on a good podcast mic, a USB mixer can arguably be just as important in perfecting the sound on your podcast. You want your voice and your guests’ voices to sound level and blend seamlessly in the conversation. Your podcast listeners shouldn’t be messing with their volume knob throughout your podcast. This is where your audio mixer comes in.
Podcast Recording Things To Consider
Podcast Format
What kind of podcast are you recording? Are you the only speaker or will you have a co-host? Several co-hosts at a time? Will you all be in the same room recording or remote? What kind of microphones are you using?
Do you typically record in the same room or studio for your episodes, or is your podcast typically recorded on the road? Mobile podcasts add another wrinkle onto recording with the equipment you ultimately decide to go with.
Podcast Recording Equipment and Accessories
What’s your podcast microphone setup like? Do you have one studio mic and the other budget quality? Are your microphones USB or XLR? Do you have any capability issues and is your life a dongle-filled mess?
Usb Mixer For Mac
Do you have studio podcast headphones? Do you have any sound latency problems?
Features of USB Mixers
Many USB mixers offer similar features and it’s important to know which ones matter the most for your podcast. It won’t do anyone any good to spend extra for features you’re not going to use.
I should note here, the audio mixers I’m reviewing are for XLR microphones. If you’re using a USB mic, look into recording software to add some digital mixing features. It’s not perfect, but it’s better than nothing.
You’ll want a dedicated XLR port for each audio input on your podcast. So if your podcast is typically you and another guest, you need at least two ports. I’d recommend always having an extra port because things change and in the chance you land that dream guest or two, you want to make sure your equipment can handle it.
Related reading: essential podcast equipment, 25 of the best podcast headphones& 12 of the best podcast hosting services, How to Start a Podcast
The Best USB Mixers for Podcasts
1. Behringer 12 Mixer-Powered, Black
$
With a low-noise operating system and tons of headroom to work with, the Behringer 12 is the perfect USB mixer for at-home recording artists and podcasters. Don’t let the low price fool you, as this bad boy comes with four state-of-the-art XENYX mic preamps, similar to high-grade preamps you’d find in professional studios. Each input comes complete with classic British-style EQs for a more musical sound, as well as a few effects for added processing.
Pros
- High-fidelity preamps
- Studio-grade EQs and compressors
- Easy to record straight to computer
Cons
- Unit can get very hot
- No instrument-level inputs
2. Behringer Xenyx Q502USB
$
If you’re looking for a compact, on-the-go USB Mixer, look no further than the Behringer Xenyx Q502USB. This analog mixer comes with five inputs, a high-grade Xenyx Mic Preamp, Classic British-style EQ, and a one-knob compressor for easy use. It has the perfect amount of clarity and musicality for anything from smaller, 1-2 man gigs or at-home recording.
Pros
- Great value for the money
- Versatile, yet versatile setup
- High-quality preamps
Cons
- Only records at 16-bit, 44.1kHz
- No power button
3. Behringer Q1202USB 12-Channel
$$
The Q1202USB 12-Channel is perfect for mid-sized setups, yet still compact enough to take with you on the go! It comes complete with four studio-grade Xenyx preamps, classic British-style EQs on each channel, and one-knob compressors for simple, dynamic control. It’s an excellent choice for someone who is looking to both record and perform live with more than a few simultaneous, incoming signals.
Pros
- Studio-quality microphone preamps
- Easy-to-use EQ and compression
- Simple computer connection for recording
Cons
- LED meters are short and not great for reference
- AC adapter has been known to create low hum
4. Mackie PROFX8V2 8-Channel
$$$
The Mackie PROFXV2 8-Channel is a solid, portable mixer for those looking to venture into live sound! It comes packed with high-quality Mackie Vita Preamps, a powerful effects engine, a unique graphic EQ, and USB recording/playback. There are two mic inputs and four line inputs, making it excellent for smaller live setups.
Pros
- High-grade, class-A preamps
- Strong effects engine
- Easily record you live performance with included tracktion software
Cons
- Noticeable noise at lower levels
- Gain is not the strongest
Buy it on Amazon
5. Yamaha MG10XU 10-Input
$$
Yamaha has always been a reliable brand when it comes to music hardware, and their MG10XU is the perfect beginner USB mixer for home recordists. Onboard, you’ll find Class-A D-PRE preamps that provide natural sound, 3-band EQs on all mono channels, 1-knob compressors, and a high-quality, SPX Digital multi-effects processor. We absolutely love the sleek, contoured design as well, keeping things cool when recording for long periods of time.
Pros
- Durable and sleek design
- Warm, natural sounding preamps
- Strong digital effects engine
Cons
- Gain is pretty low
- Some complain of crackling sound when using headphones
6. Behringer Audio Interface 1-Channel UM2
$
For beginner home recordists, the Behringer 1-Channel UM2 offers solid recording for single microphones or instruments. This low-latency audio interface comes with studio-grade Xenyx preamps and a 48kHz resolution for high-fidelity recordings. Plus, it’s portable enough to take with you on the go thanks to the bus-powered design.
Pros
- Small footprint for solid portability
- Dual monitor output
- Solid XLR/TRS combo jacks
Cons
- Only one phantom power switch for all channels
- No internal effects to use during low latency monitoring
7. Behringer Xenyx 1204USB 12-Input
$$
The Behringer Xenyx 1204USB mixer is fantastic for those looking to get premium sound in a compact module. Onboard you’ll find four high-quality Xenyx preamps, musical-sounding British EQs, and one-knob compressors, each working in conjunction to give you punch and warmth. From live gigs to USB recording, it’s an incredibly versatile unit for small to mid-sized groups.
Pros
- High-quality xenyx preamps
- Easy-to-use EQ and compression
- Simple recording connection
Cons
- No built-in effects processing
- Some people have problems with the loose power cable
8. Behringer Xenyx X1222USB 16-Input
$$$
If you’re looking for something a little bigger to record your music or podcasts at home, as well as do live sound, the Behringer Xenyx X1222USB is the perfect compromise between compact and versatile. You get four Xenyx Mic preamps and four stereo inputs, two of which also accept XLR. You’ll love the mono channel British-style EQs and one-knob compressor for easy processing, as well as the dual-engine multi-effect processor for everything from reverb, to delay to pitch-shift and beyond!
Pros
- High-quality Xenyx preamps
- Tons of awesome onboard FX
- Professional feedback elimination process
Cons
- Headphone output is a bit noisy
- Low bit rate USB output
9. Pyle Professional 4-Channel USB Mixer
$
The Pyle Professional 4-Channel Mixer is the perfect choice for beginner or on-the-go recordists. Easily connect to your computer via USB or Bluetooth and take advantage of the XLR/TRS combo inputs and 3-band EQ for added processing. The rugged design makes it great for bringing on the go to lay down spur-of-the-moment ideas!
Pros
- Cordless Bluetooth connection
- Rugged and portable design
- 16-setting reverb FX option
Cons
- No mute button for mics
- Bluetooth doesn’t provide best audio quality
10. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2nd Gen
$$
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is probably one of the best beginner audio interfaces on the market thanks to the high-grade preamps and 24-bit/192kHz conversion and sample rates. The 2-in, 2-out USB design makes it incredibly portable, perfect for plugging in your guitar or microphone and getting started right away.
Pros
- Two High-quality Scarlett preamps with tons of gain
- Leading conversion and sample rates
- Pro Tools First included
Cons
- Some experience USB port failure after a while
- Headphone volume is very quiet
11. Numark M6 4-Channel USB Mixer
$$
The Numark M6 4-Channel USB Mixer is a no-frills mixer for someone who just needs to simply lay down some audio with all of the effects and processing. You get four input channels with tons of gain and a three-band EQ for easy tweaking. The faders make adjusting the volume incredibly easy, and the unit is built like an absolute tank for security while traveling. Overall, this is a great unit for DJs who need a simple setup for live!
Pros
- Simple and durable design
- Tons of gain in each output
- Versatile Arsenal of Audio Input Types
Cons
- Talk-over feature can be buggy
- Large unit for what it contains
12. Behringer Xenyx 502
$
![Mixers Mixers](/uploads/1/2/7/7/127769931/467166475.jpeg)
The Behringer Xenyx 502 is excellent for that small gig at your local coffee shop or small speech in your college lecture hall. At an incredibly compact size, the Xenyx 502 gives you only what you need to get a professional sound. On the interface, you have 5 inputs in total (one mic and two stereo), as well as an easy-to-use British EQ.
Pros
- Lightweight 1.2 lb design
- High-quality Xenyx preamps
- Easy-to-use interface
Cons
- No 48-volt phantom power
- Gets warm when in use for a while
13. Phenyx Pro 4-Channel
$
The Phenyx Pro 4-Channel is another simple mixer that is perfect for recording your music in your room or playing gigs at your local coffee shop. It comes with both balanced line and XLR inputs, a natural 3-band EQ, a send section for built-in effects, and +48v phantom power! All of this and you can easily connect it to your computer via USB.
Pros
- Portable design
- Included +48v phantom power
- Easy-to-use interface
Cons
- Effects section is very limited
- Some say headphone jack has a hissing noise
14. Audio2000’s AMX7342 Six-Channel
$
If you’re looking for something mid-range with all the essentials, the AMX7342 is perfect! With six channel comprised of both line and mic inputs, a number of send effects included 3-band EQs on each of the channels, and extremely high-accuracy level indicators on the interface, you get both quality sound and quality control. All of that and you can easily connect to your computer to record high-fidelity audio thanks to the +48v phantom power.
Pros
- High-accuracy level indicators
- Included +48v phantom power
- Unique graphic equalizer
Cons
- Not very user-friendly
- No onboard compressor for price
15. Ammoon 2-Channel Mini Mixing Console
$
The Annmoon 2-Channel takes miniature recording to the next level. If you’re looking to get into from-home broadcasting or just set up for a little karaoke, it’s the perfect option. It comes with one mic input and one stereo TRS inputs, both of which can be controlled with the easy-to-use knob interface. Even with only 5v of power, you still get switchable +48v phantom power for condenser use.
Pros
- Insanely portable design
- 5v low voltage power
- Included +48v Phantom Power
Cons
- Does not actually record with USB
- Channel sliders feel a bit cheap
16. Behringer Xenyx X1204 12-Input
$$
The Behringer Xenyx X1204 is the last at the threshold of compact mixers before getting into the pro game. You get four onboard Xenyx Preamps with studio-quality sound, some high-quality British EQs on each channel, one-knob, easy-to-use compressors for punch, and a powerful multi-FX processor with a whopping 16 different presets from reverb to delay to flanger and beyond. From live gigs to home recordings, it’s a solid choice!
Pros
- High-quality xenyx preamps
- Powerful multi-FX processor
- Included recording software
Cons
- Threshold for distortion is quick
- Metering isn’t the most accurate
17. Alesis MultiMix 4-Channel
$
The Alesis MultiMix 4-Channel is perfect for plopping down on your desktop and getting straight to recording! Thanks to its compact design and accurate, real-time metering, you can record both instruments and microphones with ease. There are also a number of built-in effects for dialing in character to your sound without fuss! This all comes to you from a reliable company that has been in the hardware game for many years.
Pros
- Portable size
- Built-in Fx processor
- Accurate metering
Cons
- Some complain of hiss
- Phantom power can be a little noisy
18. Behringer Xenyx 302USB Premium
$
The Behringer Xenyx 302USB Premium is an excellent bedroom mixer or travel interface for laying ideas down on the go. You get a dedicated 2-track input with phantom-powered Xenyx preamps, a musical British EQ, and some free software to get you ready to record right out of the box!
Pros
- Portable size
- Powerful preamps
- Comes with free recording software
Cons
- No control for USB recording level
- Cannot solo tracks
19. Behringer Xenyx 1002B Premium
$
The Behringer Xenyx 1002B is both portable and powerful with two high-quality Xenyx mic preamps, British-style 3-band EQs, and a 4/3 ratio of balanced stereo inputs and mic inputs. Even with the small size, you still get an FX send for adding a bit of character to your sound. All of this can be powered with a 9v battery for those who are feeling inspired on the go.
Pros
- Powerful Xenyx preamps
- Can be powered by 9v
- Low noise recording
Cons
- XLR jacks can be finicky
- Unit can get warm fast
20. Yamaha AG-03 3-Channel
$$
The Yamaha AG-03 3-Channel is excellent for podcasting and simple home recording. Thanks to the compact design, it can either be operated via USB or mobile battery. It surprisingly provides 192 kHz/24-bit sound for high-fidelity recordings, as well as a 1-touch DSP for both EQ and compression at the press of a button. For those who are looking to record to Apple devices, you can also connect to 2nd generation iPads or later.
Pros
- Easy iPad connection
- 1-Touch DSP for pro sound
- Comes with Cubase
Cons
- Audio output is a bit low
- Knobs feel a little cheap
21. Behringer Xenyx X2222USB 22-Input
$$$
Moving into the realm of pro audio, the Behringer Xenyx X2222 provides eight studio-grade, phantom-powered Xenyx Preamps, eight one-knob compressors, and British-style EQs, and a solid FX processor with 16 different presets that can be manipulated to your liking! You even get a tap function onboard for easy parameter storage! For recording larger groups in the studio or dialing in high-quality live sound, the Behringer Xenyx X2222 is a great piece of hardware!
Pros
- High-quality multi-FX processor
- Easy-to-use compressors and EQs
- Professional preamps
Cons
- Heats up pretty fast
- Not the most user-friendly
22. LyxPro MRB3 3-Channel
$
For those recordists on a budget, the LyxPro MRB3 3-Channel provides high-quality sound and Bluetooth convenience for easy recording. With easy-to-use controls and a wildly portable size, you can take this thing with you just about anywhere for laying down ideas on the go!
- High-quality construction
- Bluetooth connection
- Portable size
Cons
- No instrument cable connection
- A bit of added noise
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