The Analog Recording Mixers For 2025
By, Nicolas WardUpdated
Summary
Best Overall
Behringer Q1202USB 12-Channel Mixer, Black
With the Behringer Q1202USB, you can enjoy professional quality, superior sound and near-zero latency thanks to its one-knob compression and sublimely musical British EQ. These features make it easier than ever to record your performances or live performances.
Best For The Price
Alesis MultiMix 4 USB FX | Studio Mixer for Home Studio Recording
Alesis MultiMix 4 USB FX delivers the ultimate home studio recording experience with its affordable, compact design. Featuring four mono channels, two stereo channels and a built-in digital effects processor with 16 different effects and dual headphone outputs, it’s the perfect mixer for music production on the go.
Best Sound Quality
Bluetooth Studio Audio Mixer -Controller Interface w PC Recording
The Bluetooth Studio Audio Mixer is a great tool for musicians and singers to create high-quality studio recordings. This eight-channel mixer can be used in a variety of ways, with features such as a built-in microphone, PC recording function, and Bluetooth audio transmission.
In the recording world, mixers are devices that combine multiple audio signals into one. Mixers have become a critical part of any studio setup, especially with analog recording gaining popularity once again. They can be essential to help you keep track of all your recording tracks and monitor levels so that everything is balanced and not too loud or too low.
A mixer also helps you combine various instruments effectively so they blend well while ensuring they don’t peak above a certain level to avoid distortion from your input. There are many types of mixers, and each serves a different purpose in the recording process. In this article, we will discuss some of the more common types of analog recording mixers and their unique benefits.
After spending many hours researching and assessing, our specialists have identified the models that would best meet your needs, particularly Behringer Q1202USB 12-Channel Mixer, Black. We've put up a buying guide as well as additional good alternatives to help you find the perfect one.
Our Top Picks
TOP Choice #1
![Behringer Q1202USB 12-Channel Mixer, Black]()
- 4 state-of-the-art Xenyx Mic Preamps comparable to stand-alone boutique preamps
- Premium ultra-low noise, high headroom analog mixer
- Neo-classic 'British' 3-band EQs for warm and musical sound
- Studio-grade compressors with super-easy 'one-knob' functionality and control LED
- Home Studio Recording Essentials: XLR inputs with gain trim and switchable high pass filters; Dual band EQ on channels 1 4; Multicolour LED metering for real time, visual level feedback
- 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 Included: ProTools | First Alesis Edition, AIR Mini Grand, DB 33 and Eleven Lite
- Portable, Feature Packed Mixing Desk: 4 channel mixer with 1/4inches line level inputs, a high impedance input / switch for electric guitar and bass (DI), plus XLR inputs with 48V phantom power
- Connects to all Your Studio Equipment: Stereo (2) 1/4inches outputs connect to active monitors, amplifiers and recording devices; headphone output with independent level control
- 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
- 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
- fdescripRECORD 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
- BLUETOOTH: This portable 8-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
- 8-CHANNEL MIXER: The device caters multiple device connectivity because it has 8 channels. It has 2 1/4’’ (L/R) outputs, 4 XLR microphone inputs, 2 pairs RCA (L/R) inputs, 2 pairs 1/4’’ mono + stereo,1/4’’ Send + Return and 1/4’’ 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)
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![Depusheng DT12 Studio Audio Mixer Controller Interface w Recording]()
- 12-CHANNEL DJ Mixer: The mixer is great for multiple devices connectivity because it has 12 channels,and one XLR microphone and 1/4’’ input each channel. Plus 2 Pair XLR outputs，2 1/4’’ (L/R) outputs, Each pairs RCA (L/R) inputs and outputs, 2 pairs 1/4’’ mono + stereo,1/4’’ Send + Return and 1/4’’ headphone jack
- Ultra-thin and Rugged Chassis: With only 1.6 inches thin design, sealed rotary controls to resist dust, great experience of touching to use this mixer. This compact mixer provides total dynamic control, is great for high quality on stage performance,premium quality crystal clear studio level quality audio playback.【If there's any problem, please don't hesitate to contact us, we are very happy to help and strive for good customer service.】
- Multi Devices Compatibility：This portable 12-channel DJ mixer has Bluetooth for wireless streaming and use it as an input to mix signal with other input channels. It works with IOS, Android, Tablet and MP3 Player.
- High Accurate Led Lights and Power Supply:Delicate LED peak level indicator, and ultra musical 3 band EQ on all channels; 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 10-Segment (-24, -19, -14, -11, -8, -5, 0, +5, +8, +11)
- Wireless Bluetooth: The bluetooth wireless range is within 15 ft.Very easy to wirelessly stream all music tunes to the mixing board from Spotify or Pandora
5
![Soundcraft Notepad-8FX Small-format Analog Eight-Channel Mixing]()
- Designed for singer-songwriters and podcasters, the notepad Series provides a layout that’s familiar to audio professionals yet easy to learn for beginners
- Work seamlessly with your Mac or PC to record, edit, and play projects using your favorite audio software
- Get legendary Soundcraft quality from professional microphone preamps
- 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
- Multi Devices Compatibility：This portable 12-channel DJ mixer has Bluetooth for wireless streaming and use it as an input to mix signal with other input channels. It works with IOS, Android, Tablet and MP3 Player
- 12-CHANNEL DJ Mixer: The mixer is great for multiple devices connectivity because it has 12 channels, one XLR microphone and 1/4’’ input each channel. Plus 2 Pair XLR outputs，2 1/4’’ (L/R) outputs, Each pairs RCA (L/R) inputs and outputs, 2 pairs 1/4’’ mono + stereo,1/4’’ Send + Return and 1/4’’ headphone jack
- 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
- Ultra-thin and Rugged Chassis: With only 1.6 inches thin design, sealed rotary controls to resist dust, great experience of touching to use this mixer. This compact mixer provides total dynamic control, is great for high quality on stage performance,premium quality crystal clear studio level quality audio playback.【If there's any problem, please don't hesitate to contact us, we are very happy to help and strive for good customer service.】
- High Accurate Led Lights and Power Supply:Delicate LED peak level indicator, and ultra musical 3 band EQ on all channels; 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 10-Segment (-24, -19, -14, -11, -8, -5, 0, +5, +8, +11)
7
![Soundcraft Signature 12MTK Analog 12-Channel Multi-Track Mixer]()
- High-performance 12-Input small format analogue mixer with onboard effects and multi-track USB recording and playback
- Renowned Soundcraft sapphire British EQ with sweepable mid-bands per channel
- Lexicon effects engine featuring award-winning reverbs, delays, Choruses and Modulations
- 14-In/12-out ultra-low latency USB playback and recording interface
- Iconic Soundcraft Ghost mic preamps with ultra-low noise performance
8
![Soundcraft EPM8 High-Performance 8-channel Audio Mixer]()
- 2 configurable auxiliary buses
- RCA phono stereo playback inputs and record outputs
- XLR-type and ¼” metal jack connector sockets
- TRS insert sockets and inserts on all mono inputs and mix output
- 3-band EQ with a swept mid on mono inputs
9
![PreSonus StudioLive AR16c Hybrid Digital/Analog Performance Mixer]()
- Complete recording solution: Includes Capture live-recording software and Studio One Artist DAW for Mac and Windows
- 18-channel analog mixer with 12 balanced microphone inputs with XMAX mic preamps plus two instrument inputs, 16 balanced line level inputs, 2 insert points, Stereo Super Channel (Ch. 17/18) with Bluetooth 5. 0 wireless, RCA inputs, 1/8-inch stereo input, and switchable SD/USB stereo playback, Stereo effects processor with 16 presets, dedicated send and return, and bypass footswitch jack
- Global +48V phantom power
- 18x4 24-bit/96 kHz, USB 2. 0 (over USB-C connection) audio recording interface; record every channel plus the main mix
- 2x2 SD recorder (record main mix); supports SD and SDHC formats up to 32 GB
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![StudioLive 16.0.2 USB 16x2 Performance & Recording Digital Mixer]()
- MIDI I/O: control main and effects output levels, recall effects presets and Scenes, and serve as a MIDI interface
- Fat Channel signal processing on all channels and buses, with 3-band semi-parametric EQ, compressor, downward expander, and limiter
- 16 channel inputs (8 mono and 4 stereo channel inputs with 60 mm faders (12 faders)
- 2 stereo 32-bit digital effects processors
- 12 Class A XMAX solid-state mic preamplifiers (12 channels + talkback)
- 4 auxiliary buses (pre/post-fader send) and 2 internal FX buses
- 18-in/16-out USB 2.0 audio interface (24-bit/44.1 kHz and 48 kHz) records all channels and main L/R mix
- Software library includes PreSonus Studio One Artist DAW and Capture live-recording software for Mac and Windows and UC Surface mixer-control software for Mac, Windows, and iPad. QMix-UC touch wireless aux-control software for iPhone, iPod touch, and Android are also available free.
- Stereo, 31-band graphic EQ on the main bus
- Scene and individual settings store and recall
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What to Look For in a analog recording mixers?
The analog recording mixers is a product type that many customers feel hesitant to select because of the challenges in evaluating its features. It comes to trust! When studying a significant purchase, many factors must be considered. Our analog recording mixers knowledge will help you make an ideal decision.
Our article here will highlight some outstanding items and provide solutions to FAQs and guides to buying. You should keep in mind some main criteria of analog recording mixers below:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
FAQs
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.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.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.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.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.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.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.About Nicolas Ward
