Lacks expandability for larger venues and studios No built-in effects or USB connectivity Great combination of size and functionality Multiple outputs for headphone amps, PAs, monitors, and more Built-in one-knob compressor for fast sound shaping Outputs: 2 x XLR, 4 x TRS (main)1 x 1/4-inch headphones Channels: 12 inputs: 4 x XLR/TRS combo, 2 x XLR, 4 x TRS2 x RCA (stereo) Why It Made The Cut: This 12-input, 2-bus mixer from Yamaha is small enough to fit in most project studios and small venues, yet offers enough connectivity to be expandable should the need arise. The MG12 is small enough to be portable while offering generous I/O, three-band EQ, and rackmount compatibility. The Best Audio Mixers: Reviews and Recommendations Best Overall: Yamaha MG12 12-Input 4-Bus Mixer The one exception from this list is the Behringer XAIR X18, which consists of a stripped-down input panel and a tray for storing a remote-control tablet. This time-tested design allows for easy visibility and user access to all functions. This functionality can be incredibly helpful by allowing users to record performances as they happen and eliminating the need to acquire a separate dedicated interface for digital tweaking.įorm Factor: Most of the audio mixers on this list follow classic design principles and consist of box-shaped construction with physical knobs, switches, and faders. This list includes a handful of audio mixers that are capable of doing just that. USB Compatibility: Every audio interface on the market is technically a mixer, but not every audio mixer is capable of wiring to a computer and functioning as a digital audio interface. Many of the mixers on this list also include dedicated line-level inputs, which are required for adding keyboards, drum machines, samplers, and other high-volume audio sources to the mix. This is by far the most essential type of connectivity for audio mixers and encompasses live sound and recording environments alike. Podcasters, streamers, and traveling users will probably prefer the one or two-channel mixers on this list, which are much smaller and suited for quick setup and portability.Ĭonnectivity: All of the mixers on this list feature at least one XLR input, which is the industry-standard connector for microphones. Generally speaking, twelve to sixteen channels is a broad enough number for the fluctuating needs of most average operations. Number of Channels: The needs of a live venue or performance space are naturally different than those of a small content-creation studio, so it’s important to select an audio mixer with a channel count that can accommodate the range required by your creative projects. Here are a few of the key factors I assessed when compiling this list. Best Budget: Pyle PAD10MXU 2-Channel Audio Mixer How We Picked These ProductsĪudio mixers all perform the same basic duties, but there are many permutations within the product category that result in a wide range of user experiences and overall usefulness. Best Overall: Yamaha MG12 12-Input 4-Bus Mixer In this guide, we’ll go over the best audio mixers available for today’s most common creative needs, and break down exactly what to keep in mind when shopping for one of the best audio mixers for your next project. While most audio mixers typically consist of hands-on control components including knobs, faders, and a variety of switches, some contemporary models offer stripped-down digital controls.Īudio mixers come in a wide range of sizes and capacities, with the smallest and most basic models aimed at project studios or podcasters with minimal needs, and larger models suited for use in concert halls and venues. The audio mixer then sends the finished audio signal to speakers, recording media, and other audio gear. The best audio mixers excel at combining signals from a number of sources like microphones, keyboards, and guitars, and blending them into a cohesive mix that’s clear, balanced, and easy for listeners to enjoy. Audio mixers are an essential piece of sound equipment that comprise the control center of every professional sound system, from live performance venues to recording studios.
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