Pyle Professional
Audio Mixer- Overall Rating
- USB Compatibility
Digital Mixer
Eight channels
Inbuilt digital effects
Rotary adjustment knobs
Behringer 12 XENYX
3-Pin XLR Sound Mixer- Overall Rating
- Analog Mixer
4 Mic Preamps
3-Band EQs
FX processor with 100 presets
Ultra-low noise
Behringer Xenyx Premium
16-Input Audio Mixer- Overall Rating
- Analog Mixer
One-Knob function
LED controls
Includes 16 editable presets
3-Band EQs
Introduction
The world of sound mixing is one of the fascinating tasks carried out by professionals or even beginners in the music industry. It is an essential part of live music, especially in studios. The typical studio situations require you to take inputs from microphones or other sources and further direct them to the recording rig’s input.
You are at the right place if you are also looking for the best sound mixers to use in 2021. It’s a new beginning with those charismatic and powerful DJ-like sounds that everyone would love to hear.
The guide will introduce you to what a sound mixer is, related typical applications, the detailed reviews, and what should you look for in an audio mixer. So, let’s start with the standard definition of an audio mixer!
What is a sound mixer?
A sound mixer is a portable device that works with the primary task to combine, accept, process, and monitor audio in different music environments such as recording studio, live concert, film/television shows, and broadcast audios.
Types of Audio Mixers
Generally, you are going to find two builds of sound mixers as follows.
- In-Line Sound Mixer
The two paths per channel are provided in In-Line sound mixers. It means the same channel is used to receive and send sound to and from DAW (Digital Audio Workstation).
- Split Monitor
The single part per channel is provided in the split monitor console. Each channel can either be used to receive or send sound to or from DAW.
So, these are two common forms of audio mixers available worth considering. Let’s now move on to the typical applications of sound mixers.
What are the typical applications of an audio mixer?
The primary application of any sound mixer is to make the output of sound better in different music environments, as discussed above. It may contain either a single or multiple input channels to process various audio sources, adjust their sound levels, and attributes to combine with less number of outputs. So, the audios are taken from live concert performers to add and tweak sound effects. These will then be combined with a mono or stereo output with a PA system.
- It can be used as a portable PA (Powered MixerMixer) in church, school, and business events.
- It’s another excellent application that comes with acoustic musicians.
- Rock Bands can use the MixerMixer to process their input channels.
- The Recording Studios use both Digital and Analog Mixers to get their audio workstation going.
- The voice-over, radio, podcast, and narration are other ideal users of audio mixers.
Digital V/S Analog Sound Mixers
The sound mixers are designed in either digital or analog forms with respective advantages. The very first difference between the analog and digital MixerMixer is the instant recall feature. It is easy to recall sound setup to exact parameters from the last saved memory in digital consoles. Every button, knob, switch, and fader will snap to the held position in the digital sound mixer. On the other hand, analog consoles are required to recall manually.
However, the analog sound mixer comes with its benefits of summing. Summing is done pretty quickly in these mixers’ analog circulatory, whereas the digital mixers sum it in terms of binary code.
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Overview Comparison Table of the 10 Best Sound Mixers
| SN. | Best Sound Mixer | Key Features | Ratings | Product URL |
| 1. | Behringer 12 XENYX 3-Pin XLR Sound Mixer | • Analog Mixer • 4 Mic Preamps • 3-Band EQs • FX processor with 100 presets • Ultra-low noise |  |  |
| 2. | Behringer Xenyx Premium 16-Input Audio Mixer | • Analog Mixer • One-Knob function • LED controls • Includes 16 editable presets • 3-Band EQs |  | |
| 3. | Pyle Professional Audio Mixer | • MP3/ Flash Reader/USB Compatibility • Digital Mixer • Eight channels • Inbuilt digital effects • Rotary adjustment knobs |  | |
| 4. | Behringer Xenyx Premium 22-Input Audio Mixer | • Analog Mixer • 8 Mic Preamps • One-knob function • LED controls • 3-Band EQs • 16 editable presets | | |
| 5. | Mackie Mix Series 8-Channel Sound Mixer | • Analog Mixer • Three Mix Sizes • 8-Channels • 3-Band EQs • 2 Mic/Line Inputs |  | |
| 6. | Alto Professional ZMX122FX 8-Channel Sound Mixer | • Three Channel Sizes • High headroom circuitry • Studio-Like inbuilt effects • 8-Channel Mixer • Ultra-Low noise • Inbuilt FX | | |
| 7. | Mackie 402VLZ4 Compact Sound Mixer | • 8 Channel Size Variants • 2 Mic Preamps • Enhanced RF rejection • Low noise with high headroom • Comprehensive Lineup |  | |
| 8. | Alesis MultiMix 4-Channel Sound Mixer | • Two-channel sizes • Multicolor LED Metering • 4 USB FX processors • Inbuilt Studio Effects • Ideal for computer recording setups | | |
| 9. | Depusheng 12-Channel Bluetooth Digital Sound Mixer | • Two-Channel Size Variants • Inbuilt Digital Effects Processor • Includes air cooling system • Mono/Stereo Channel Inputs |  | |
| 10. | Behringer Xenyx 502 2-Bus Sound Mixer | • Analog Mixer • Low Noise with High Headroom • Includes CD/Tape inputs | | |
Editor’s Review of Top 10 Best Sound Mixer Reviews
Let us now study how beneficial a sound mixer can be in your music career with its brief intro, critical specifications, and pros and cons according to your requirements.
[Ranking 10:] Behringer Xenyx 502 2-Bus Sound Mixer
The brand Behringer is the most famous among sound mixers to start with the top selection. Stay tuned to this pick if you are a passionate DJ Mixer. The device comes with a pretty humble design with light headroom. The MixerMixer is excellent if you lack features such as line inputs, channels, headroom, instrument inputs, and microphone inputs in your current device. It comes with the ability to give you plenty of space around the setup.
It is built with a comprehensive frequency response of 10Hz to 200 kHz. Most of the professional DJs are using this device to make their voices better using FX and EQs. The Xenyx powered mixers are further manufactured with incredible mic preamp technology. The power consumption at 13W is also ideal as well as cost-effective. All in all, it has five channels and proved to be highly beneficial for musicians of all trades.
Key Specifications
- Item Weight: 3.25 pounds
- Type of Mixer: Analog
- Input Sections: 5
- EQ: 2-Band
- Phantom Power: NA
Pros
- Useful for all musicians and DJ
- Wide frequency response
- Affordable
- With the dedicated microphone input
- Portable
Cons
- Only one microphone channel
- A bit confusing for a novice user
[Ranking 9:] Depusheng 12-Channel Bluetooth Digital Sound Mixer
It is another Bluetooth powered mixer by Depusheng. This portable audio MixerMixer is available in two size variants of 8 Channels and 12 Channels with different color options. The best part is the Bluetooth connectivity with a USB Plug and Play feature. You can experiment with six types of music modes with a 2-track return and 2-track transmission feature.
This audio MixerMixer is the perfect option if you are looking for ambient sound effects in a single device. It has an inbuilt digital effects processor to provide you with one-button switching and various live sound effects. Also, this MixerMixer has got two faders for right and left speakers, respectively. Overall, you get the required contents within the package, including the MixerMixer, adaptor, and a user manual for safety instructions.
Key Specifications
- Item Weight: 12.97 pounds
- Type of Mixer: Digital
- Input Sections: 12 Channels
- EQ: 3-Segments
- Phantom Power: 48V
Pros
- Highly compatible
- Wide frequency response
- Lightweight
- Highly portable
- Multiple input sections
Cons
- A bit pricey
- Not for direct channel recording
[Ranking 8:] Alesis MultiMix 4-Channel Sound Mixer
Here’s another powerful digital sound mixer by Alesis Instruments with 15 sound effects and dual-band EQ. The MixerMixer comes with two XLR inputs presenting the guitar indicator on channel two and a low-cut button for controls on track one. The 15 impressive sound effects are one of the worth noting features of this sound mixer. And, it is pretty easy to control these effects with a simple blue-colored knob.
You are then provided with a power indicator, LED indicators, and a phantom power indicator for facilitative purposes. Besides the main panel, the back panel is also easy with a power on/off button. In general, it is the latest version by Alesis Instruments with improved features. At the same time, we’d like to rank it the most durable audio MixerMixer on our list. The quality of effects saturation on each channel is entirely exclusive to such a beginner-friendly mixer.
Key Specifications
- Item Weight: 2.42 pounds
- Type of Mixer: Digital
- Input Sections: 4 Channels
- EQ: Dual Band
- Phantom Power: 48V
Pros
- Availability of two size variants
- With inbuilt studio effects
- Ideal for home studio recording purposes
- With professional software suite
- Recording via USB
Cons
- Requires a bit of learning
- Bit loud noise
- Maybe ineffective with software
[Ranking 7:] Mackie 402VLZ4 Compact Sound Mixer
Let’s now review the sound MixerMixer by the leader brand of Analog Mixers, i.e., Mackie. It is built with two high-quality preamps for transparent and natural sound and one stereo channel. These line/mic channels are further equipped with 2-Band EQs. The next considerable benefit is a simple and flexible signal routing. Overall, it is made in such a way to cope up with the most harrowing music environments.
This Mackie mixer will also shrug off any drops, bumps, and outright abuse. Even though it is not a fully waterproof mixer board, it comes with extra protection, specifically when running the live sounds. Then, it has got an incredible 60Db gain range in the Onyx mic preamps. You can even connect high-output sound sources as it has +22 dBu signal levels.
Key Specifications
- Item Weight: 2.5 pounds
- Type of Mixer: Analog
- Input Sections: With Channel Variants
- EQ: Dual-Band
- Phantom Power: NA
Pros
- With improved RF rejection
- Low noise design
- Sealed rotary controls
- Extended frequency response
- Great input handling
Cons
- No grip on knobs
- No physical user manual
- Loose power cable connection
[Ranking 6:] Alto Professional ZMX122FX 8-Channel Sound Mixer
This is Alto Professional’s 8-Channel Sound Mixer with impeccable features worth considers. Well, it has three size variants, including 6-Channels, 5-Channels, and 8-Channels. This phantom-powered MixerMixer has a further 16 total inputs, and thus it’s a perfect portable device for musicians and DJ lovers. Then, the onboard digital sound effects with 256 variations are notable for such a compact audio mixer. It has high headroom circuitry with a premium low noise feature.
The inbuilt FX lets you select from space and room delays, small and large hall acoustics; spring reverbs, chorus effects, flangers, and so on. Then, the natural 3-band EQ on all channels is excellent for studio-like performance. All its line/mic channels have switchable features of faders, pan controls, and mute buttons. It is built with two-track input or output features for recorders and external media players for added connectivity.
Overall, this is an ideal audio mixer if you are looking for a hassle-free and quick setup. You are also provided with two stereo channel inputs for various instruments such as drum machines and keyboards within your live arsenal.
Key Specifications
- Item Weight: 4.84 pounds
- Type of Mixer: Analog
- Input Sections: With Channel Variants
- EQ: Dual-Band
- Phantom Power: NA
Pros
- Premium sound quality
- Professional-grade audio mixing features
- Inbuilt FX
- With four mic input channels
- Hassle-free setup
Cons
- Not compatible with USB
- A bit inefficient at high volumes
[Ranking 5:] Mackie Mix Series 8-Channel Sound Mixer
How can we forget mentioning the best products by Mackie Mix Series? It is another excellent sound mixer with three size variants. This is the latest live range of the Mackie Mix Series with undoubtedly fantastic performance. It’s all channels include 3-band EQ with a pretty straightforward design. It is further built with 2 line/mic inputs with excellent studio-like quality. Even though it doesn’t come with Onyx mic preamp as usual in the case of Mackie Mix Series, it still sounds great.
Its material quality feels like aluminum that is also one of the main reasons for it being affordable. Overall, the MixerMixer feels sturdy when picked up in hand. However, it doesn’t have any power switch. So, you will need to plug in and plug out the cord to operate the sound MixerMixer. Also, it doesn’t have the microphone stand mount, which is another limitation of having it.
The people using this audio MixerMixer have rated it fantastic in terms of clean sound, preamp quality, input sections, and so on.
Key Specifications
- Item Weight: 3.5 pounds
- Type of Mixer: Analog
- Input Sections: 8 Channels
- EQ: 3-Band
- Phantom Power: 48V
Pros
- Sturdy
- Easy to use
- Ideal for a home studio setup
- Professional quality
- Affordable
Cons
- No power button
[Ranking 4:] Behringer Xenyx Premium 22-Input Audio Mixer
Welcome to the Behringer studio mixer board with incredible quality features. The most exciting trait for this audio MixerMixer is the availability of 22 Input sections. It has eight studio-quality compressors with LED controls and one-knob functionality. All in all, this microphone mixer is experienced to sound great in both live and studio. The new FX processor further comes with 16 editable presets, including flanger, reverb, pitch shifter, chorus, multi-effects, etc.
The overall build quality is super-premium with high headroom and low noise effects. It has three aux send per channel, including one post-fader, one pre/post fader switched for FX applications or monitoring, and one pre-fader for monitoring purposes. Also, the faders are long-wearing 60-mm with sealed rotary controls. Its compressors offer full dynamic management for the perfect clarity and punch in your sounds while also considering the emotions you have already packed in the note.
Another considerable benefit is the presence of Xenyx mic preamps with superior performance and the latest technology. You will get the crystal-clear sound with the required professionalism with this Behringer Xenyx Audio Mixer.
Key Specifications
- Item Weight: 12.13 pounds
- Type of Mixer: Analog
- Input Sections: 22 Inputs
- EQ: 3-Band
- Phantom Power: NA
Pros
- Professional Build Quality
- Superior sound performance
- High-quality mic preamps
- Inbuilt stereo USB/Audio interface
- Studio-quality FX processor
Cons
- Needs a high learning curve
- Lack of info in the user manual
[Ranking 3:] Pyle Professional Audio Mixer
Here’s another high-quality digital sound mixer by Pyle Professional in Bluetooth compatibility. This audio MixerMixer is the perfect fit for sound lovers, especially podcasters. It also incorporates all the effects built-in with a 16 Bit DSP Processor. It is an 8-channel mixer featuring four mic inputs and 4 line inputs. Also, there are two gain controls for both the send as well as return signals.
All in all, it is a preamp mixer that needs to be plugged into the amplifier or a power mixer. On the other hand, its cables go straight from this audio MixerMixer to the computer if you plan to use it for podcasting purposes. The unit will also get changed into a digital volume control leveler via the buttons provided above. So, go and record 10-15 minutes sample, playback, and see from the controls if you need any adjustment. In the end, the computer unit and the USB cable are the best ways to record over this sound mixer.
Key Specifications
- Item Weight: 3.97 pounds
- Type of Mixer: Digital
- Input Sections: 8 Channels
- EQ: 3-Band
- Phantom Power: 48V
Pros
- MP3/Flash Reader/USB Compatible
- Rugged Steel Construction
- With LED indicators
- Rotary adjustment knobs
- Inbuilt Digital Effects
Cons
- Limited speaker connections
- No useful documentation
[Ranking 2:] Behringer Xenyx Premium 16-Input Audio Mixer
The brand Behringer comes up with one of the famous sound mixers and the 2/2 Bus Mixer and USB audio interface. It has four studio-quality compressors with one-knob functionality. It has four high-quality Xenyx mic preamps to standalone those boutique preamps. The build quality is super strong, with multiple input sections worth consider. Moreover, its 16 editable presets are pretty helpful for a home studio and professional podcasting purposes.
It’s 2 of the four stereo channels compatible with XLR inputs and Line-Level sources, which is a great feature to consider among studio mixers. It has a studio-quality and fully transparent musical compressor to offer you a dynamic range of music. The exciting thing about Behringer’s music mixers is the availability of FBQ Feedback Elimination processors. The LED indicators on the EQ fader will illuminate after sensing the feedback in the particular frequency range.
Key Specifications
- Item Weight: 9.3 pounds
- Type of Mixer: Analog
- Input Sections: 16-Inputs
- EQ: 3-Band
- Phantom Power: 48V
Pros
- Sturdy
- Professional compressor quality
- With LED indicators
- 16 editable presets
- Simple one-knob functionality
Cons
- A bit unbalanced XLR input
- Little noisy headphone output
[Ranking 1:] Behringer 12 XENYX 3-Pin XLR Sound Mixer
This is another Behringer Xenyx sound mixer with the availability of two sound configurations. The mixing board is quite sturdy, along with the FX send control panel. It is high headroom and premium low noise analog mixer with Xenyx quality mic preamps. These are superior mic preamps praised all over the world. On the other hand, its digital inbuilt Multi-FX processor allows for better sound mix integration.
It comes with 100 incredible presets to choose from, including flanger, reverb, chorus, pitch shifter, delay, and other multi-effects. After the generous application, its 3-band Equalizers exhibit excellent audio quality and sweet forgiveness. Moreover, there is the availability of FX send jack to connect with your favorite external effects. All in all, the brand Behringer makes the ideal fit for every kind of sound lover, whether it’s professional or your home studio tasks.
Key Specifications
- Item Weight: 4.59 pounds
- Type of Mixer: Analog
- Input Sections: 12-Inputs
- EQ: 3-Band
- Phantom Power: 48V
Pros
- Premium mixing board quality
- Musical, warm sound
- Transparent and high-frequency performance
- With multiple external effects
- Superior mic preamps
- Inbuilt digital effects processor
Cons
- No power switch
- Lack of useful info in the user manual
Comprehensive Buying Guide for the Best Sound Mixers
Things to consider before buying a Sound Mixer
The best sound mixer selection is not an easy task unless you know the right application and individual technical specifications of a product. Mixing audio signals need the right combination of factors we are going to discuss below.
Let’s understand how each factor plays a significant role in making the sound MixerMixer best of all!
- Input Sections or Channel Count
It is the most crucial factor to know the number of sources you will connect with the mixer board. Our best sound mixers’ selection comes with various kinds of channel counts or input sections such as 16, 12, 8, 22, etc. At most, it will go up to 24 channel counts. Some of the sound mixers also consist of additional inputs such as Talkback and Tape inputs.
- Type of audio MixerMixer
Then, you have to choose between various kinds of audio-video mixers. However, our main concern here is to choose among the best audio mixers only. Generally, there are analog mixers, digital audio mixers, and powered mixers. Most of our picks are analog mixers with excellent sound recording ability. Analog mixers are cost-effective but lack specific programming and automation.
On the other hand, digital sound mixers are made with a range of control capabilities. You can recall and save these setups for time-saving purposes. You can apply more audio effects with these mixers. Then, you have powered mixers with inbuilt amplification. They usually feature line-level inputs so that you can quickly expand the system with monitors and powered speakers.
- Onboard signal processing
Most of the sound mixers have onboard processing either on single or both the buses. It means you have to consider less investment in purchasing the onboard gear. Comparatively, the digital audio mixers come with more onboard signal processing features than the analog ones. It doesn’t mean that analog mixers are not considerable. Each comes with its benefits and applications, and you have to select the best according to your requirements.
Analog mixers are the best choice if you are comfortable with a bit of manual operation.
- Options of Recording
What are the different options for recording on your mixer board? Most of the digital sound mixers come with a certain level of integrated recording options. You are required to check the bus type for computer recording options. This bus type could be AVB, USB, and FireWire, etc. Also, check for the recording frequency range as most of them offer 24-bit recording at more than 44 kHz.
- Aux buses
Most of the sound mixers can send at least one monitor mix over the stage. And, it is generally done with aux buses or auxiliary buses for short. Each of its channels comes with level control for every aux send. Building the monitor mixes requires setting the individual aux-send levels for different media to be heard in the mix.
- I/O
I/O stands for inputs/outputs on a sound mixer. Your procedure determines the types and number of inputs and outputs to use it. On the other hand, you are also required to determine the number of instruments and performers to capture simultaneously. Therefore, the I/O calculation of sound mixers must also consist of other devices, including the recording and signal chains. It includes microphone preamps, effects processors, monitor speakers, headphones, and instruments connecting directly with MixerMixer using DI (Direct Injection) boxes.
- Groups
Most of the sound mixers come with a group feature to process and control various channels collectively. A group generally works as a sub-mixer sharing the routing and signal processing. It would be comfortable to manage the drum kit by assigning it to a single group. Also, the mute function would become handy to silence the group of inputs and open mics.
So, these are certain buying factors you need to consider before purchasing the sound mixers. Now, we are heading towards the frequently asked question regarding these audio mixers in the following section.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
So, these were our insights on the ten best sound mixers with their respective comparison chart and an informative buying guide. Sound mixers are more than essential when you’re into a sound industry such as podcasting, live concert, live recording, or home studio purposes.
Let us know what you consider about these devices in the comments section below! You can freely ask for any queries related to our selection of the best sound mixers and also tell us about your favorite audio MixerMixer from the list. It would further help us rank the products according to your requirements.
Thank you!
