Affordable and high-quality audio mixers for recording
Professional musicians, producers, and audio recording experts can’t do without a high-quality audio mixer. This is a special device that receives several sound signals and mixes them for an original output. There are lots of audio mixing boards for different activities, music recording included. Those seriously involved in music production can’t imagine their work without such a unit. We have studied the modern market trying to find the best audio mixer for recording that can satisfy both beginners and experts.
The list contains 12 decent options with some of them suitable for recording at home and those with more powerful functionality. Read till the end and choose smartly.
Number of Channels: 6 | Inputs: 4x XLR-1/4" combo jacks, 2x 1/4" jacks (one stereo pair) | EQ: High: 12kHz, Mid: 2.5kHz, Low: 80Hz
The Pyle PMXU63BT audio mixer has all the features and functions you would expect in a professional audio mixer at an affordable price. It is great for both professional and home audio mixing. You can bring it to the office, school, recording studio, anywhere to mix and control your music.
With the PMXU63BT, you have the freedom to take your mixing skills to the next level. You can do more than just run your mixes through a computer, connect your iPod, and let your clients headphones play through your mixing console.
Number of Channels: 10 | Inputs: Mic Input, Mono Line Input, Stereo Line Input, 1/8" Input | EQ: High: 12kHz, Mid: 2.5kHz, Low: 80Hz
The main feature of the Mackie ProFX10v3 audio mixer is the use of proprietary Onyx mic preamps, new GigFX processing algorithms, and an advanced USB interface. In addition, the mixer is well-equipped with music software. It includes ProToolsFirst and WaveformOEM software, as well as a collection of 23 Avid Mackie Musician Collection plugins.
The model ProFX10v3 is equipped with four microphone inputs, two of which have a high-impedance HI-Z mode for connecting a guitar and combo jacks. In addition, only the first two channels have a built-in compressor. Onyx preamps have a pleasant neutral sound, inherent in high-quality professional devices.
Number of Channels: 8 | Inputs: 2x RCA (L/R) Inputs, 2x 1/4" / 6.3 mm Stereo Inputs, 1/4" / 6.3mm Send + Return Input, 4x 3-Pin XLR/1/4" TRS Combo | EQ: High: 12kHz, Mid: 2.5kHz, Low: 80Hz
The Pyle PMXU88BT audio mixer is designed specifically for those in the music industry. The device is perfect for mixing professionals. It also contains an interface for connecting to the Bluetooth wireless network for streaming and downloading of audio files.
The Pyle PMXU88BT is offered with user-friendly controls and innovative features that are highly useful for a complete musician. The LED indicator provides maximum facility in monitoring the performance of the instrument. The audio interface has a direct monitor and send option for controlling any monitoring input or output. This instrument can be used to record, play and mix all kinds of audio and MIDI data. The latest technology in its making is the ideal solution for professional musicians who need to work on their instruments at their own pace.
Number of Channels: 2 | Inputs: XLR and ¼” TRS combo inputs | EQ: Bass: 80Hz, High: 12kHz
Rockville RockMix 2 audio mixer is a powerful multi-effects processor that offers you all the great elements of an audio mixing console. It also provides the best out-of-the-box sound quality, and you can get rid of signal noises that may cause damage to your audio interface. This system comes with a user manual as well as audio interface cables to connect the input and output jacks of your computer.
The interfaces provide you with a host of features that will allow you to do diverse types of jobs. You can send audio to up to 2 input channels, and you can send the processed audio to these 2 channels. It has a high quality audio interface with an onboard compressor. It is an all-in-one solution for the creative professional. You can make use of this audio interface for recording, mixing, and mastering your audio material.
Number of Channels: 8 | Inputs: 4x XLR-1/4" combo jacks, 4x 1/4" jacks, 4x RCA coaxial jacks | EQ: High: 12kHz, Mid: 2.5kHz, Low: 80Hz
The Pyle PMXU83BT is an affordable high-quality audio mixer for the home studio or for professional recording in a performance situation. The Pyle PMXU83BT provides you with the high-end effects and functionality of a compressor, a multi-effects processor and an equalizer with three-bands compressor and a built-in virtual vocalizer.
The Pyle PMXU83BT is particularly useful for both recording and mixing jobs because it offers such high-quality sound and extremely flexible applications. You can run this audio mixer with just one input, use it as a direct drive unit, run it as an analog audio interface or connect it to a USB audio interface device. This easy-to-use audio mixing and mastering machine is perfect for both professional and novice musicians and engineers because of its diverse functions and easy installation and operation.
Number of Channels: 12 | Inputs: 4x stereo inputs, 4x balanced MIC inputs | EQ: High: 12kHz, Low: 80Hz
Sound Town TRITON-A12BD audio mixer is the latest addition to the ever-growing list of popular sound and music gear. This mixer has all the essential features that one might need to create a live performance that will keep audiences spellbound and tuning their feet to the music.
You can add more effects through the knobs and if you want some added punch, then you can use the compressor. It comes with twelve channels. With its three-band equalizer, it lets you customize exactly the sound for each band member for a perfect sound match. This sound and audio mixer are truly the best there is and the best choice you could ever make for your live performance.
Number of Channels: 8 | Inputs: 8x Line In/Mic Combo | EQ: N/A
The Phenyx Pro PTX-30 audio mixer is a solid and well-built machine that provides you with the basic facilities that you need for mixing and recording. It has all the standard features that are found in many mixers but also offers some special features which allow it to be used on the stage. This machine is ideal for studio use, as it will not require a separate sound card and is fairly inexpensive. The fact that it is an all-in-one mixer means that you can benefit from the features of all three bands.
The feature-set offered by the Phenyx Pro PTX-30 is very good and includes such extras as the ability to crossfade between input channels. Also, the mixer has a unique "waveform chopper" function which allows you to create different effects, for example classic overdrive or some other classic tone. If you are into recording live shows, this function is ideal for you.
Number of Channels: 12 | Inputs: 8x Combo XLR-1/4" / 6.35 mm, 2x 1/4" / 6.35 mm TRS, 4x RCA (2x stereo pairs) | EQ: High: 10kHz, Mid: 100Hz to 8kHz, Low: 100Hz
The LiveTrak L-12 gives you a great-sounding preamp with 12 channels of onboard audio mixing and effects, along with the convenience of a built-in 14-track SD recorder. With the LiveTrak L-12, professional podcasters can record without worrying about compatibility problems with any computer system or operating system (iOS compatible). With the Zoom LiveTrak L-12 audio mixer, you get all the standard on-board functions such as tone controls, gain control, recording delay and echo.
In addition, there is a low-cut filter with manual volume adjustment, a compressor with a high-frequency booster. The Zoom LiveTrak L-12 also features an incredibly tight and clear reproduction of sound, along with the exceptional noise reduction feature.
Number of Channels: 8 | Inputs: 2x XLR-1/4" TRS Combo Balanced/Unbalanced Mic/Line/Hi-Z, 4x XLR-1/4" TRS Combo Balanced Mic/Line, 2x 1/4" TS Unbalanced Line, 1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRRS Unbalanced Smartphone I/O | EQ: High: 10kHz, Mid: 2.5kHz, Low: 100Hz
The Zoom LiveTrak L-8 audio mixer is built around a high-power DC motor with all the same features as other LiveTrak mixers such as true stereo mixes, programmable patch change options, 2-track recording, direct signal input with level and pan control, and audio interface function for connecting to PCs and computer software. The mixer has 6 programmable pads that can be used for making and modifying individual tracks.
This is a small mixer, yet packs a great punch in recording live shows and other professional events. The L-8 can be used for recording electric guitar, bass, vocals, and more. The built-in 8-channel audio mixer provides ample headroom when recording and is powered via a standard battery or USB.
Number of Channels: 4 | Inputs: 1x Mic/Line In Combo, 1x 1/4" Impedance, 2x Mono (Pair) | EQ: N/A
The echo effects feature on the Phenyx Pro PTX-10 audio mixer for recording is great for adding extra sound effects. You can connect the mixer to your computer via USB cable and then use software to create your own customized sounds using the supplied sounds library.
The echo effects feature on the Pro PTX-10 makes it easy to experiment with different types of sounds. There is also an option for locking the gain at a certain level. There is an option for reducing any background noise that could be affecting your recording.
Number of Channels: 12 | Inputs: 12x Mic Inputs; 12x Line Inputs | EQ: High: 12kHz, Mid: 2.5kHz, Low: 80Hz
For professionals and beginners alike, the Fineshine 12 Channel audio mixer offers the standard features needed to complete a professional sound recording. With six modes of operation, and a large audio input capability of up to twelve channels, this mixer is perfect for live performance or for studio recording. The built-in equalizer allows you to blend sounds from different sources, so you can create complex sound scenarios.
The Fineshine audio mixer does not become overly susceptible to high levels of unwanted noise. This mixer is equipped with a unique feature that allows you to instantly control the level of the signal during recording. If you are looking for a true all in one electronic recording and mixing solution, then the Fineshine 12 Channel audio mixer is the one to consider. Its convenience, durability, and value add together to make it an excellent choice for professional DJs, musicians, and other professionals.
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Pyle PMXU63BT
Our choice
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Mackie ProFX10v3
For home
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Pyle PMXU88BT
Universal
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If you are shopping for the best audio mixer for recording at home, you should opt for a device with a space-saving design and a reasonable price tag. You don’t really need a multitude of extras aimed at larger venues and mind-blowing input and output capabilities. For spacious gathering halls of churches and similar locations, you can choose a bigger mixer considering that most of the time you’ll need to cover a whole band.
Talking about inputs, we actually mean any port that is used for connecting an instrument or a mic so that a signal will travel through a mixer. Sometimes, inputs are referred to as channels. To play it safe, get a mixer with at least 1-2 XLR inputs. This kind of port is specifically aimed at connecting microphones, so if you plan to run a vocal line through your mixer, make sure there is an XLR input.
All modern audio mixers have an equalizer. A 3-band EQ system is a good option for most activities. However, if you need to record a large band and there are many nuances to handle, you should purchase a mixing board with more EQ features. Such a system is usually called a Graphic EQ and it has a broader range of frequencies that you can tweak to get the desired sound.
Top-tier mixers are supplied with diverse effects to spruce up sound. Of course, the larger the library of effects, the higher the price you have to pay. Anyway, if you want to surpass your competitors and please listeners with unique beats, it seems like a good idea to splurge on an effect-rich audio mixer.
For some people, the best audio mixer for recording, is the one with portable dimensions. Actually, the size of a unit plays a big role if you tend to frequently relocate your audio equipment. However, larger mixers are also designed with portability in mind, so many of them are fitted with handles and other features for easy transportation. Just decide how portable a mixer you want, and select accordingly.