They are cheaper and provide the convenience of accessible controlling, as well as provide that overall analog sound that most people like. It made things much more uncomplicated for us as an easy-to-use audio mixing device. Most buyers are impressed with the sound quality of the Behringer X AIR X18 USB mixer, calling its sound quality crystal clear. And while its chock full of features, some users found it intuitive and easy to setup. I do this with the realtech on board soundcard in the PC using the line in jack but, it has problems which keep showing up and the sound quality is not so great.Would a USB mixer work for me? The TC Helicon GoXLR Revolutionary Online Broadcaster Platform with 4-Channel Mixer is a dedicated audio mixer for streamers. You can expect the benefits of a digital mixer, like a plethora of features that youd normally find on large mixing consoles, but at a fraction of the price. You get gain, three EQ adjustments, and volume on channels 1-4. The channels consist of 4 preamps that connect via XLR, plus mic, line, and guitar-level inputs. Audio mixers with more channels cost more, so be certain of how many channels you need. With your mind armed with the knowledge of the best USB mixers for home studio, finding the right one should be a piece of cake. Digital mixers provide a greater number of control options. One quick thing to note about EQ and audio mixers is the British style EQ circuits. Its an excellent tool for bands and a live-sound mixer for small concerts, a multitrack recorder in the rehearsal room, and a USB audio interface in the studio. This guide was the result of several days and dozens of hours doing research on the best USB mixers out there. If you regularly use more than one microphone, play music, or broadcast video gameplay on your streams, an audio mixer is a must for fine-tuning your sound. This USB mixer produces some good results for what is needed from a USB mixer-audio interface combo, with DAW integration being one of its best features. Reverb is a great addition to the excellent addition of FX generator for the occasional stage-singing performer. The Mackie Mix8 8-Channel Compact Mixer has everything you need for superb sound at a price that most artists and bands can afford. Reverb, flanger, chorus, delay, and other effects are among the 16 changeable presets on the mixer. This is to allow your computer software to recognize your mixers audio signal. But as one buyer rightfully put it this would be irrelevant within the context of a home studio. Therefore, PMXU63BT is the audio mixer you must go for if you want to learn how to use XLR microphones for game streaming or school interviews. Just be careful not to over-pod the sound source. View on Amazon: Pyle Professional Audio Mixer Sound Board Console PMXU63BT. Audio mixers come with different channels and tuning functions, and youll need to ensure you choose one that meets your requirements. Pyle has crammed in many features that are appealing to professionals, but it has made them accessible to the average person. Powered mixers are a different form of audio mixers. Having a digital mixer such as the StudioLive 16.0.2 USB 162 Performance & Recording Digital Mixer with wireless iPad control, 16 built-in audio interfaces, and enough effects and processing to handle many a gig or studio session is exceptionally remarkable. The mixer also offers a microphone input and a stereo line-in. Pros: Top-quality audio and effects, High-end features, Class compliant USB connection, Great value overall, Cons: Lacking individual faders, No individual EQ. In that case, Yamaha MG10XU is the one you must pick. But there are a few limitations to be expected. A high-end mixer like this doesnt come cheap, however. At its very basic functioning, a mixer provides you with multiple inputs for more than one microphones and/or instruments. This mixer will surprise you with what it can do. For example, it may serve as your primary sound system or a supplementary mixing surface for recording music to your computer. The fact that its one of the most affordable models on this list makes it worth trying out. Copyright 2022 MusicProductionNerds.com, 5 Best Turntables for Sampling & Digitizing Vinyl [Buying Guide], Best DI Box for Acoustic Guitar [Ultimate Buying Guide]. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. If you do need more than five channels, theres an eight-channel model thats almost as compact but more expensive. The choice between analog or digital audio mixers comes down to your preference: convenience or customization. Its designed for both stage and small studio use, with great sounding preamps, and no need for driver installations. For example, setup may be pre-programmed, saved, and recalled, which is helpful if you regularly perform with the same band. DemonstrationAlesis MultiMix 8 USB FX Specifications. Yamaha MG10XU is a work of art that is both beautiful and functional. Tascam Mixcast 4 Podcast Studio Mixer Station with built-in Recorder / USB Audio Interface is a USB-connected SD-based multitrack recorder with various audio inputs and outputs. 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. Pros: Tons of features and effects, 16 high quality preamps, The ability to save settings, Intuitive and easy to use app, Cons: No phantom power included, Dependent on clear wireless signal. In our view, the Soundcraft EPM12 High-Performance 12-Channel Audio Mixer is the best audio mixer on the market right now. There are 16 mic preamps that are remote controllable and can be programmed. You can connect your XLR mic and control compression with just one knob. This is most useful and convenient for recording live sets, podcasts, etc., since your controls are right in-front of you. Each LiveTrak Project can save up to nine scenarios, which are saved and retrieved via a numbered button grid. These GS-R24 preamps are considered some of the best in the business, warm and deep with lots of headroom and no low-noise. If youre on a budget and looking for the best USB mixer for home studio at a convenient price, take a look at the Alesis MultiMix 8 USB FX. The benefits of a USB mixer is that it eliminates the need for an audio interface, since a typical non-USB mixer would require some form of analog-to-digital conversion (via audio interface) in order for your device to record your mix. Its too much for what you need it for, but its great to have it on hand if you need it for your home studio. You might see some audio mixers advertised with British EQ, which means they were designed to emulate EQ circuits that were popular in England in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s and gave British rock bands their signature sound. It can replace your other audio equipment, such as an audio interface, as well, helping you consolidate into one device that takes up less desk space. Despite its small size, the Mackie Mix8 packs a strong punch and is durable. On an audio mixer, a channel is a signal path; its what your audio travels on. The ability to sweep the mids is a considerable benefit. 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. It is also beneficial if you need to make a last-minute setup modification during the event. Each channel would be controlled by sliders or knobs to get the sounds blending right, so you can send it to your recording device (like a tape deck). There are tons of USB mixers on the market I should know, it took me a while to sort through them. Its geared toward podcasters, with a USB audio interface, four XLR inputs, phantom power, Bluetooth in and out, and an eight-pad soundboard. You can reach the different buttons and switch on the gadget more quickly because of the downward slope. We even experimented with microphone sound effects and had a great time. With four phantom-powered Xenyx mic preamps, the Behringer X1222USB is a quality analog mixer designed for pros. You can expect plenty of convenient features, and a sound that professionals say rival the larger console mixers on the market. However, despite the additional weight, you need not deal with the tinier connectors and the separate transformers on the mixer that other brands require. This four-channel mixer has four volume sliders and a mute button. Honest Gear Suggestions for Home Studio Owners and Music Producers. DemonstrationAllen & Heath ZEDi-10FX Specifications. Its one of the more popular items in this guide, and is usually reviewed from the perspective of a live gig mixer, but its also suitable for home studio as well. An audio mixer takes multiple sources of audio and mixes, balances, and combines them into one signal. You can balance and record your podcasts audio in either stereo or multitrack format and then transmit via USB to a variety of platforms (Mac, PC, and iOS, with Android coming shortly) and edit and export using Tascams Podcast Editor software (WAV, MP3, MP4). For some people this is just a matter of preference. Instead, a USB audio interface simply acts as device that routes your audio signals to the channels of your DAWs mixer (where you can do all the controlling via clicks). We noticed that 16.0.2 has a relatively tiny footprint of less than two square feet, yet it has a weighty sensation. Yamaha is known for its high-quality products, and the MG10XU contains several of them. Everything is controlled via an app on your device, and can be done either via USB, or wirelessly. The Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX USB mixer is highly recommended for the home studio user whos into recording, podcasting, or streaming. All of the features sounded and felt as we expected, if not better. In that regard, its pretty good. For the essential features, expect similar to what you should expect from a good USB mixer. Furthermore, they lack wireless remote control, necessitating constant attendance at the board. 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. Meaning they can route your channels to your DAWs mixer as well. In the previous version, the only complaint was that there can be low-noise over USB connection. It is an excellent option for those who want to use external FX. Soundcraft EPM12 is the overall best audio mixer on our list today. The built-in preamps provide it with the greatest quality alternatives for sparkling pure highs and unobstructed bass frequencies. If you want to be able to plug your mics directly into your mixer, its useful if it already has a few preamps. You can controller control and blend your Main Mix and Aux Mix independently, since the USB mixer allows you separate playback controls. Those new to audio mixing appreciate the simplicity and efficiency of analog mixers. And the built-in effects with tap tempo makes it very convenient for syncing up the delays and other effects that it comes with. The headphones have a built-in amplifier, limiting your ability to alter the sound. These mixers are ideal for live and studio sound and have more inputs and routing options. Restream is the
This buying guide covers the features and attributes of audio mixers that streamers should consider when purchasing. But with this new version we suggest taking the plunge on acquiring and testing it for yourself, as anything wrong with the previous version would certainly be improved. Having enough tuning options is essential, but dont let yourself get carried away and get an audio mixer with 20+ EQ knobs. Look for audio mixers that let you control the channels, compression, and equalization (EQ). If you buy something through our affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no expense to you. Many buyers tend compare this to the Mackie ProFX8v2, considering it the superior USB mixer. Like youd expect, the Behringer X AIR X18 USB mixer has features that go beyond the essentials of a basic home studio, some of which can be taken to the stage for live multi-track recording. USB mixers can be used as audio interfaces if you want to control the effects, levels, etc. An audio interface somewhat acts like a USB mixer, except an audio interface doesnt give you much control of the sound before it reaches your recording device (such as volume and EQ). Some of the features on the Yamaha MG10XU USB mixer are what youd expect on high-end models. It does lack some features for gaming streamers, though, like compression. In conclusion, the AMAHA MG10XU 10-Input Stereo Mixer with Effects is simple, portable, and equipped with all the necessary effects and inputs. If you are recording to a DAW, change the settings of your DAW so that it receives audio signals via USB, and not via any other source. But if your mixer lacks these features, youd need to get a microphone phantom power supply and microphone preamps. While these USB mixers wont break the bank, if youre on a lean budget, take a look at theAlesis MultiMix 8 USB FX as a super affordable alternative. The best option in this guide is theAllen & Heath ZEDi-10FX. The bright five-inch touch screen is the heart of the interface. Here, you will learn to choose the best mixer for your application. Here's a Quick Recommendation! Audio mixers work seamlessly with streaming software. You may create and edit savable mixes for up to 5 members of your band! The Mackie ProFX12v3 USB mixer is a great buy and generally excellent value for money. But how do you know which one to choose or if you even need one? Value-for-dollar its hard to deny this in terms of quality and features. The metal chassis is also something to appreciate, the build makes it feel sturdy and reliable, while small enough to take up minimal space on your desk. Its great! Read our guide on audio mixers for streaming and get our top 7 recommendations. But theAllen & Heath ZEDi-10FX offers pretty excellent value-for-money thanks to its integrated computer interface. Can a USB mixer be used as an audio interface. You can get an audio interface instead. We didnt notice any jitters or aliasing, and it seemed pretty speedy and responsive. TheBehringer X Air X18 is also a good option if you want a digital mixer with wireless controls. If you wish to make any changes at once, youll need to pre-program them for quicker access. An analog mixer with power amplifiers built-in is a powered mixer. Expect a clean sound with this choice. But, on the other hand, you will rarely record anything other than a stereo stream coming from a USB mixer. In conclusion, the Tascam Mixcast 4 Podcast Studio Mixer Station with built-in Recorder / USB Audio Interface is a capable gadget that will let you focus more on your podcasts substance rather than the technical parts. It is suitable for small venues and produces high-quality sound for your events. The only thing that is left is to connect your microphones and/or instruments to the inputs of your mixer. The Mackie ProFX12v3 is the top choice for the best USB mixer for home studio. An audio mixer is one of the essential equipment you can acquire, whether performing live or recording. Hi, I am blind and want to listen to my digital book player through my windows 10 PC with a microphone headset. The Yamaha MG10XU USB mixer comes with a total of 10 channels, with 4 combination XLR-TRS mic preamps and 4 phantom power. Pros: Affordable price, Easily connects to laptop or computer, Comes with Cubase LE, Compact design, Cons: Only supports 16-bit audio, Only one stereo out. Each function has its control, all visible and accessible on the control panel. However, they lack the customization options of a digital audio mixer, and they tend to have fewer external device connections. These channels will allow the user to tune the bass, mid-range, and treble. In conclusion, there just isnt enough room to discuss all of the fantastic features of the StudioLive 16.0.2 USB 162 Performance & Recording Digital Mixer. Prices vary considerably, with analog mixers tending to be less expensive than digital. Buyer opinions of the Mackie ProFX12v3 USB mixer are very positive overall. Weve compiled a list of the top 10 audio mixers for 2022. Music Production Nerds is supported by readers like you! Also, it comes with a built-in audio interface that sends out two left-right channels to your DAW from your mix. 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. If you want to make music as good as possible, you need the most talented engineers and mixers at your disposal. In conclusion, the FBQ Feedback Detection System is one of our favorite features in the Behringer XENYX X1222USB. Many buyers repeatedly say that they bought this because they simply needed the phantom power and pres. But elsewhere, you can find home studio users satisfied with the quality and sound that it produces at home for various home studio recording applications. The digital audio transfer process also prevents white noise and buzzing that analog mixers tend not to block out. This mixer also has four professional compressors and LED control, enabling you to mix and get the desired sound swiftly. In addition, you can quickly manipulate audio during streaming sessions using them. It has a downward slanted construction comparable to that of a keyboard. Since USB mixers connect to your computer or laptop via USB, simply plugging it into your computers USB port should do. In conclusion, aside from the fact that its an excellent audio mixer for music and podcasting, the PreSonus StudioLive AR12c 14-Channel USB-C Hybrid Digital/Analog Performance Mixer provides so much free software that its incredible. Some microphones need an additional power supply for them to work. And with ten channels, its the ideal mixer for streamers using multiple mics. The Soundcraft EPM12 High-Performance 12-Channel Audio Mixer is an excellent choice if youre looking for a straightforward mixer. With a built-in USB interface, you can also easily record your shows or streams. The GoXLR audio mixer from TC-Helicon was created with streamers and gamers in mind. However, certain features, such as inputting sound files to pads, do need the use of the software editor. This stream will be a combination of all of your audio inputs. Product research was done on Amazon as well as other online stores like Sweetwater. The only typical downside from buyers is the lack of faders, as well as no individual EQ controls, which is more an inconvenience for the gig user than the home studio owner. It is powerful and portable and is large enough to handle all of your mixer requirements. For the purposes of this guide, there are two main types of audio mixers: analog and digital. Additionally, if you still want the ability mix within your DAW, there are USB mixers that provide the functionality of an audio interface as well. After reading our recommendations, you should understand what you need in an audio mixer and how to find the perfect one for your streams. This mixer provides studio-quality sound and is straightforward to use, making it a top choice among streamers who want professional-sounding audio. Users also comment on the ease with which the USB mixer connects to their computer. The LiveTrak has a well-balanced design for its intended purposes. With 10 channels, theres even the ability to connect instruments directly without the need of DI boxes. The highs are crisp and delicate, while the lows are deep and defined, with no audible phase shift, unlike many analog mixers of this size. Find the Best Noise-Canceling Earbuds, Headphones and Headsets. Analog mixers are more common. Because of the mixers high quality, there is no need to be concerned about anyone sound dominating the others. When youre in the market for a new audio mixer, you have several factors to keep in mind. In terms of features, the Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX USB mixer offers one the best value for money, since its both a compact mixing console as well as an audio interface. The Mackie Mix8 has eight channels, two studio-quality mic/line inputs, phantom power for studio condenser mics, and three-band EQ on all channels. When it comes to audio quality, a sound mixer should be able to handle anything from live concerts to television sets and recording studios. ive performances and other scenarios where many microphones and equipment are used concurrently need the use of mixers, which are particularly useful. Required fields are marked *. It comes with four XLR inputs and seven-band graphic EQ for tuning mains and monitors, panning, compression control, and faders. Additionally, we didnt find any noise or issues with sound quality, and you get rails for mounting it. Recording and mixing a live performance or making demos is a snap with the Zoom LiveTrak L-12 digital mixer! Without having to worry about feedback, you can make a fantastic sound. Your email address will not be published. Forums such as Gearslutz and Reddit was a tremendous help in providing the correct user impressions, opinions, advice, and caveats from those who already know what they are talking about. Like effects, you can change change the sound of your recordings to add more bass, treble, or mids, or reduce them as you like. It is an excellent audio mixer for smaller shows. This is thanks to its 18 channel bi-directional USB connection, with a built in audio interface and processor that supports high-resolution audio, designed to lighten the load on your computer. Yamaha provides superb sound quality and fantastic effects, and it is our choice for the best analog audio mixer on our list. No, all audio mixers do not count as audio interfaces. You can plug in your mic, mobile phone, and laptop and control the sound and frequencies from each one. Being class compliant, the USB mixer can be connected to any computer or device like tablets. This gives you a two-in-one solution, and a fraction of the cost of most other gear. So many mixers these days will come with a USB connection that will allow you to record your mixes directly to your computer, or even a tablet. From the compact design and RGB lighting to the voice effects and instant mute button, the GoXLRs features will make controlling audio on your live broadcast a breeze. Furthermore, you can quickly learn and operate the interface setup, having 3-band EQ and LED metering. Our experts found the controls to be fluid and accurate. Perhaps the most impressive feature of the Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX USB mixer is the fact that it has the built-in audio interface. It all depends on the model you have. If you want to learn more about our affiliate partners, click here. With three-band EQ, XLR/TRS inputs, and a 16-setting special effects processor, it will get the job done easily. We like it, and were sure you will as well! But the three most common are analog, digital, and powered audio mixers. It has a USB port for output to Livestream devices for DAW throughput, which is an excellent feature, and we have included it as the best audio mixer for a home studio on our list. Behringer has also included an FBQ Feedback Detection System in this mixer, allowing you to achieve the correct sound without any feedback. without having to touch your DAW. Some mixers have them. This audio mixer is extremely simple to set up but allows for advanced options controlling lots of audio sources. Although its a different story with Podcast Editor, it is enjoyable to use. Effects like delays, reverbs, chorus, and flangers can help to spice up your recording in the moment. As a USB mixer, it has connections for directly recording to your laptop or computer, with no need for driver installation. Depending on your setup, either USB mixer or audio interface can work best for you. The built in audio interface makes it ideal for multritrack recording, and the DA conversion produces hi-res audio quality with a clean, rich sound, and easy DAW integration. So, we may conclude that the GoXLR is simple enough for everyone to use for streaming. In conclusion, Mackie Mix8 8-Channel Compact Mixer has everything you need to make great-sounding mixes with little trouble, whether youre a single performer or in a band. It might be small, but it has all the features a streamer could need, including two-band EQ and five channels. The Pyle PMXU83BT audio mixer works well for all types of settings, not just for streaming. On testing, we were able to hardwire two microphones, a keyboard, an Echo Dot, and our laptop in a matter of minutes and connect a tablet through Bluetooth. While not necessarily pro worthy, the Alesis MultiMix 8 USB FX mixer is a great solution if youre a musician starting a home studio on a budget, and you know you need a mixer and not just an audio interface to do live recordings. Wireless connection is standard on most digital mixers, allowing remote operation through an iPad or smartphone. I have seen many USB sound cards on Amazon and Ebay but it is hard to find one with both microphone and line in jacks.I only need a 3.5mm Microphone in, line in and speaker out jack.Any advice would be greatly appreciated.Thanks very much. View on Amazon: Tascam Mixcast 4 Podcast Studio Mixer Station with built-in Recorder / USB Audio Interface. Check your DAWs manual for how to change input settings. audio interface that sends out two left-right channels, Lacking a few features like individual faders, inserts, and mutes. Every musician needs good audio mixers in their arsenal to ensure their performances sound clear and balanced. When you start producing and recording music, sooner or later you may want to record and mix many different instruments or sound sources at the same time. After installing the recommended drivers from your USB mixers manufacturers website or CD, download Audacity and install it to your computer. Many of these systems make trade-offs between audio quality and money to accomplish a perfect balance between the remote control and automation with digital audio mixers. An audio mixer can take the quality of your live stream to the next level. This may be true considering the relative channels, more compact size, and at around the same price. Some USB mixers also come with their own recording software, or a free version of a DAW. Yes, they do, but you can only mix it with the device youre using to plug in the USB. Furthermore, we were impressed by MG10XUs fantastic audio quality and flexibility. The Behrigner Xenyx QX1002USB analog mixer offers plenty of features to meet more sophisticated needs. If youre already familiar with the analog mixers on this list, or you wanted to take the plunge and go high-tech without breaking the bank, the Behringer X AIR X18 USB mixer is a great buy for your home studio. The audio mixer makes it simple to change the settings. At this price, its a significant accomplishment, so we have chosen it to be the best digital audio mixer on our list. Looking into the details, the Mixcast 4 contains a lot of physical knobs and faders, a touchscreen with menus, and eight trigger pads for triggering audio and effects. Additionally, its a multitrack recorder and a live sound mixer making it the best audio mixer for live performances. If you were looking at the Mackie and were not certain, the Yamaha MG10XU USB mixer is a comparable option that could easily take the Top Choice spot, if werent only for the fact that it received few buyer reviews than the competitor.