The Analog Mixer With Direct Outs For 2024

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
Yamaha MG16XU 16-Input 6-Bus Mixer
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Yamaha MG16XU 16-Input 6-Bus Mixer

This mixer is a rugged, impact-resistant, powder-coated metal chassis that features an inverted Darlington circuit design for fat-sounding bass and smooth soaring highs. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Mackie ProFXv2 PROFX8V2 Mixer

This one is designed to be an easy-to-use mixer with high-headroom mic preamps that deliver clean and natural-sounding results. Read Review

3. Best For Beginners: Pyle PMXU128BT 12-Channel Studio Audio Mixer

The mixer is perfect for beginners or studio professionals, and it comes with a +48V Phantom power supply for a reliable power source. Read Review

4. Best Compact: Alesis MultiMix 4 USB FX Mixer

The sleek, compact design is easy to pack and features integrated studio effects with 15 DSP effects with channel FX sends and Master FX return level. Read Review

In the world of recording, mixers are an indispensable piece of equipment. Mixers can be used to combine multiple audio signals into one output or vice versa, depending on the type of mixer you own.

And while there are many different types of mixers, they all perform the same fundamental functions. A mixer is an audio device that accepts one or more inputs and combines them into a single output signal. By doing this, you’ll have clearer sound when listening back to your recorded tracks and also have more control over your final product.

In this article, we will introduce our favorite models for the best analog mixers with direct outs. When it comes to live shows, this type of output is ideal to keep clean recordings of every input signal for later mixing, and our Yamaha MG16XU 16-Input 6-Bus Mixer is a brilliant choice for that.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Yamaha MG16XU 16-Input 6-Bus Mixer
Our Score:
9.8
Yamaha
  • MG Series mixers feature a rugged, impact-resistant, powder-coated metal chassis
  • 3-band EQ and high-pass filters give you maximum control and eliminate unwanted noise, resulting in a cleaner mix
  • Featuring studio-grade discrete class-A D-PRE preamps with inverted Darlington circuit - providing fat, natural sounding bass and smooth, soaring highs
  • 1-Knob compressors allow easy control - resulting in livelier guitars, punchier bass lines, a tighter snare and a cleaner vocal sound.
  • 16-Channel mixer with USB and SPX digital effects
TOP Choice #2 Mackie ProFXv2 PROFX8V2 Mixer
Our Score:
9.6
Mackie
  • 3-band EQ and 100Hz low-cut filter on all channels.Power Consumption:20 watts
  • Aux output for monitor mixes, venue 70-volt systems, and more
  • 4 low-noise Mackie Vita mic preamps add life to any input
  • ReadyFX effects engine with 16 effects including reverbs, delays, and choruses
  • 7-band graphic EQ for tuning mains or monitors. Operating Temperature: 0 ̊ – 40 ̊C
TOP Choice #3 Pyle PMXU128BT 12-Channel Studio Audio Mixer
Our Score:
9.4
Pyle
  • 12-CHANNEL MIXER: The device caters multiple device connectivity because it has 12 channels. It has 2 ¼” (L/R) main outputs, 4 XLR 14” combo audio line/MIC IN, 2 pair RCA inputs, 2 pair ¼” mono+stereo inputs, ¼” send+return inputs, ¼” headphone jack
  • +48V PHANTOM POWER: For reliable power source, this DJ mixer comes with a +48V Phantom power supply. Includes a 3-pin power adapter cable and the stereo output level meter is 12-Segment (-30, -20, -10, -7, -4, -2, 0, +2, +4, +7, +10, CLIP)
  • BLUETOOTH: This portable multi channel DJ sound controller has Bluetooth for wireless streaming and use it as an input to mix signal with other input channels. It works with iPhone, Android, iPad, Tablet and MP3 Player. The wireless range is 15 ft
  • RECORD AND CONNECT TO PC: This personal mixer has a USB soundcard and audio interface to record and connect to MAC or PC and it has universal digital audio file compatibility. Can be used by beginners or studio professional applications
  • LED INDICATOR LIGHTS: The recording mixer has LED indicator lights and rotary adjustment knobs for user convenience. It has input selection, master volume controls, independent channel balance and high, plus, low frequency adjustment
4 Alesis MultiMix 4 USB FX Mixer
Our Score:
9.2
Alesis
  • Portable, Feature-Packed Mixing Desk - 4-channel mixer with 1/4" line level inputs, a high impedance input / switch for electric guitar and bass (DI), plus XLR inputs with 48V phantom power
  • Built in Studio Effects - 15 DSP effects with channel FX Sends and Master FX return level to adjust the volume of MultiMix 4 USB FX’s internal FX processor
  • Professional Software Suite - Includes AKAI Professional MPC Beats
  • Perfect Capture - Class compliant (Mac & PC) USB audio interface records at 16-bit, 44.1/48 kHz resolution and sends computer audio to powered loudspeakers and headphones
  • Home Studio Recording Essentials - XLR inputs with gain trim and switchable high-pass filters; Dual-band EQ on channels 1-4; Multicolor LED metering for real-time, visual level feedback
  • Connects to all Your Studio Equipment - Stereo (2) 1/4" outputs connect to active monitors, amplifiers and recording devices; headphone output with independent level control
  • Get legendary Soundcraft quality from professional microphone preamps
  • Designed for singer-songwriters and podcasters, the notepad Series provides a layout that’s familiar to audio professionals yet easy to learn for beginners
  • Getting a great mix is easy with a familiar channel strip layout that Includes EQ, aux send, master fader level and rotary headphone volume control
  • Sweeten your mix with HARMAN digital signal Processing, including iconic Lexicon reverb, echo, and delay
  • Work seamlessly with your Mac or PC to record, edit, and play projects using your favorite audio software
  • 8 studio-grade compressors with super-easy "one-knob" functionality and control LED for professional vocal and instrumental sound
  • Neo-classic "British" 3-band EQs with semi-parametric mid band for warm and musical sound
  • Premium ultra-low noise, high headroom analog mixer
  • 10 state-of-the-art, phantom-powered XENYX Mic Preamps comparable to stand-alone boutique preamps
  • Studio-grade FX processor with 16 editable presets including reverb, chorus, flanger, delay, pitch shifter, multi-effects, Tap function and storable user parameter settings
  • Renowned Soundcraft sapphire British EQ with sweepable mid-bands per channel
  • Dual-engine Lexicon effects for studio grade reverbs, delays, Choruses and Modulations
  • Iconic Soundcraft Ghost mic preamps with ultra-low noise performance
  • Dbx Limiters (High-ratio Compressors) on input channels
  • Robust metal construction for tour-grade build quality and reliability
8 Yamaha MGP32X Mixing Console
Our Score:
8.6
Yamaha
  • 4 GROUP Buses + ST Bus
  • 6 AUX Sends + 2 FX Sends
  • 24 Mic Inputs with 48V Phantom Power and HPF per Channel
  • 32 Line Inputs (24 mono and 4 stereo)
  • 2 Matrix out - 1 Mono out
9 Allen & Heath ZED-6 Compact 6-Input Analog Mixer
Our Score:
8.4
Allen & Heath
  • 2 mic/line Inputs with separate XLR and TRS jack sockets; 2 stereo inputs with TRS jack sockets
  • Lo-cut filter for cleaning up unwanted low frequency noise
  • 2 Guitar DI high impedance inputs, eliminating the need for DI boxes
  • Exceptionally low noise and massive headroom, with a signature analog warmth and depth
  • 2 band EQ for easy creative and corrective tonal shaping
  • High-precision 9-band stereo graphic EQ allows precise frequency correction of monitor or main mixes
  • 2 independent studio-grade 24-bit stereo FX processors with 99 awesome presets including reverb, chorus, flanger, delay, pitch shifter and various multi-effects
  • Neo-classic "British" 3-band EQs with semi-parametric mid band for warm and musical sound
  • Premium ultra-low noise, high-headroom analog mixer
  • 24 state-of-the-art XENYX Mic Preamps comparable to stand-alone boutique preamps
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look Through Prior to Selecting the analog mixer with direct outs?

You may be aware that purchasing something is not actually an easy action. Your everyday life will be affected if you choose the most fantastic product. What variables, though, will make this acquisition successful? Whether you're seeking for analog mixer with direct outs to meet your needs, you'll be wasting your own time.

Nevertheless, it would be preferable if you weren't so worried. We've enlisted the help of a team of professionals to investigate analog mixer with direct outs, and we've provided accurate data.

There seem to be several important considerations to make. But only a few of them are really concentrated. Here are some crucial reviews while purchasing analog mixer with direct outs:

Portability

If you are looking to bring your mixers with you, portable mixers will be the best choice. Mixers that are too small may not be the most efficient. Larger mixers are also more portable. Mixers are often required to transport large shows between venues. You probably know exactly what mixer you require if you are looking for large and portable mixers.
A smaller mixer is more convenient and portable in most situations. A mixer that has less than 16 channels is best if you are concerned about portability. While 16 channels are not an exact rule, they represent the compromise between small and large mixers. Make sure your mixer is protected and has a strong chassis. Mixers can even come with knobs or faders that have very delicate settings. This is important!

EQ

A great audio mixer should have an equalizer section. A simple, three-band equalizer is fine. However, there are times when it is helpful to have more precise EQ options, e.g. when working with live music and nuances. A Graphic EQ, however, will help you achieve the best tone possible because it covers a wider range of frequencies.

Analog Or Digital

There are generally two types of mixers: digital and analog. Analog mixers use electrical circuits and filters. Digital mixers convert the analog signal to digital audio data which is then sent to an onboard processing unit. The signal is then converted back into the analog domain and sent to personal monitor systems or speakers. Both mixers will offer basic levels and pan control. However, there are advantages and disadvantages to each type. An analog mixer is more cost-effective and easier to use, while digital mixers are more complicated but provide more functionality. This will be discussed in greater detail below.

Channel Count

Frame size, also known as channel count, is the number of sources that can be attached to a mixer's input channels simultaneously. A 24-channel mixer, for example, will let you connect 24 sources simultaneously, but there might be other inputs such as Talkback and Tape. A few smaller consoles can provide stereo channels as well as mono channels. Even though they are part of the same channel, stereo channels count as two inputs. It is crucial to remember this when making your choice.

Compatibility

The mixer must be compatible with your software. You will have problems recording or running a live performance if the software is not compatible. To ensure that the mixer is compatible with DAWs, it's important to verify compatibility during the search. It must be connected to a USB port on your computer. Without a USB interface, your DAW might not function. Although it is unlikely, it is better to be safe that sorry.

Connection Types

It's not enough to be able to identify the sources that you will connect to your mixer. A mixer that has enough preamps for microphones is a good choice if you intend to connect them primarily. To reduce the number of direct boxes, ensure that your mixer includes at least one line input if you intend to connect line-level sources.

Buses

Mixers can transmit at most one mix to the stage. Auxiliary buses, also known as "aux buses", are used to do this. Every channel has a level controller for each aux send. By setting individual aux-send levels on any channel you wish to hear in your mix, you can build your own monitor mix. An aux bus output can be used to connect an in-ear or stage monitor. You can make a number of different monitor mixes if you only use aux busses for monitoring. Aux buses can be mono so two aux buses will be required to create a stereo mix of monitors for your in-ear system. Consider your requirements.

Inserts And Direct Outputs

Channel inserts can be used to add outboard processors, such as equalizers or compressors, to channels. The channel insert point can be found right after the preamplifier in its signal flow. It may use individual send or return jacks, but only one 1/4" insert jack. This requires an insert cable. Direct outputs, on the other hand, send only a portion of the preamplifier signal from the board. This makes them ideal for individual feeds to external recorders or audio interfaces.

FAQs

Do I Need A Mixer If I Have An Audio Interface?

A mixer is a great addition to your purchase if you find that you need more audio inputs than your existing interface allows.

How Long Do Audio Mixers Last?

Audio mixers are expected to last between 3-5 years. They are able to return the money they invested. Audio mixers with a life expectancy of 5+ years are not considered obsolete. These mixers can last for a very long time, and they are easily scaleable to accommodate technological changes.

Can A Mixer Replace An Audio Interface?

You can, to a certain extent... however, a stereo mixer will not work the same as a multichannel interfacing which allows you to simultaneously record different audio sources from multiple tracks.

Can You Get A Mixer With A USB Mic Input?

Professional mixers don't have either a USB input or interface. This is because USB mics don't have as strong a connection as 1/4" or XLR jacks. USB microphones are great options for those on a budget who need to connect directly to the computer. However, audio mixers have a greater capability. Some mixers include a USB interface.

What Softwares Work Best With Audio Mixers?

It takes careful planning and consideration to find software that is reliable. The best softwares can be free or they can cost you money. Wondershare Filmore and Adobe Audition are our top picks.

Why Are Audio Mixers So Expensive?

They are worth every penny for their quality, functionality, and reliability. Mixers for audio require much effort, labor and are time-consuming. A well-balanced transformer is a costly and time-consuming task. Audio mixers can be a good investment.

What Is The Difference Between An Analog And USB Mixer?

A standalone analog mixer can mix audio from multiple sources. You can then output the audio to a PA system or speaker system. An USB mixer can do this same thing but also has an interface. You can also connect the USB mixer to your computer so you can record it in software.

Does A Mixer Improve Sound Quality?

An audio mixer's primary purpose is to mix and match sounds, as well as alter the bass, middles, and treble. The sum of all the input channels can be merged to produce better sound. A mixer can optimize sound but also filter it. The mixer improves sound quality at the input.

The figures we've presented here aren't all of them. Alternatively, we continuously update it as new information becomes available. It's advisable to keep in mind the points we discussed related to buying guide.

We always appreciate your feedback and handle it with the utmost importance. As a result, the most up-to-date data will come to your mind as soon as possible. You are supposed to contact us and give us your reviews as well as problems so that we will try to support you. Hope you have a pleasant shopping experience!


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About Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward is an elite author with many years of experience in the music field and the owner of many engaging articles at TheAudioInsights. He studies music production and has many years of passionate research into sound systems. Appearing in many popular newspapers, Nicolas Ward provides useful knowledge and the latest information on music and sound.