The 10 Best Budget Mixer Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
TC Helicon GoXLR MINI Online Broadcast Mixer
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: TC Helicon GoXLR MINI Online Broadcast Mixer

TC Helicon's GoXLR MINI Online Broadcast Mixer is designed to be flexible and intuitive, with USB-based audio mixing for all of your audio needs. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Yamaha MG06 6-Input Compact Stereo Mixer

The Yamaha MG06 6-Input Compact Stereo Mixer is a 6-channel, standalone mixer that offers powerful mixing for small spaces. With the 1 Knob compressors and their livelier sound, it's easier to get a punchier bass line, a tighter snare and cleaner vocal sound. Read Review

3. Best Connectivity: Behringer XENYX 302USB Premium 5-Input Mixer

The XENYX302USB is equipped with these exceptional mic preamps. It provides transparent, crystal-clear performance that you might not have noticed. Read Review

4. Best Powerful: Audio Interface with DJ Mixer and Sound Card

The device is easy to use and provides superb sound quality while providing intuitive full control to optimize vocal and sound effects. Read Review

A mixer is a device that allows you to control the volume levels of different sounds at the same time. These can be separate audio tracks or channels so that you can mix and balance their volumes as needed. A mixing board is a mixer with inputs, outputs and controls in one unit. It’s perfect for small home studios or if you don’t have room for additional equipment. During choosing the mixer, you are usually concerned about the budget. This is why we have compiled this list of the best budget mixer.

Our team, including qualified experts in this area, conducted a survey and carried out it for a great amount of time on finding the right products for best budget mixer, nearly 18 hours. And after lots of effort, we have done it well. 

As the result, we found some top trending models on the market that many customers tend to search for. In addition, we believe that the TC Helicon GoXLR MINI Online Broadcast Mixer is one of the best options available to you. In addition, this product is designed with studio-quality MIDAS preamp with EQ and compression. We have provided you with a detailed buyer's guide and many other good choices so that you can decide which one is the best for your requirements.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 TC Helicon GoXLR MINI Online Broadcast Mixer
Our Score:
9.7
TC-Helicon
  • Flexible and intuitive USB-based mixing for all of your audio - simple, easy-to-use controls get you up and running quickly
  • “Go live” desktop rig for online broadcasters gives you instant control over your audio
  • Studio quality MIDAS preamp with EQ, compression, and gating to help your voice sound its best
  • Officially supported on Windows 7, 8, 10, 11. No official Linux support. No macOS support.
  • GoXLR Windows app: PC app lets you control and recall all of your favorite settings. App required for functionality.
TOP Choice #2 Yamaha MG06 6-Input Compact Stereo Mixer
Our Score:
9.5
Yamaha
  • 1 Knob compressors allow easy control: Resulting in livelier guitars, punchier bass lines, a tighter snare and a cleaner vocal sound.
  • 6 channel standalone mixer (No USB)
  • 3 band EQ and high pass filters give you maximum control and eliminate unwanted noise, resulting in a cleaner mix
  • MG Series mixers feature a rugged, impact resistant, powder coated metal chassis
  • Featuring studio grade discrete class A D PRE preamps with inverted Darlington circuit: Providing fat, natural sounding bass and smooth, soaring highs
TOP Choice #3 Behringer XENYX 302USB Premium 5-Input Mixer
Our Score:
9.3
Behringer
  • Neo-classic "British" 2-band graphic EQ for warm and musical sound
  • Built-in stereo USB/Audio interface to connect directly to your computer
  • Ultra-compact and ultra-low noise analog mixer with USB/Audio interface
  • Powered through USB or external power adaptor (included)
  • State-of-the-art, phantom powered XENYX Mic Preamp comparable to stand-alone boutique preamps
  • ALL IN ONE and EASY TO USE: Works as a USB sound card plus mixing station. Integrating audio mixing equipment into 1 comprehensive solution. It delivers superb sound quality and offers intuitive and full control to optimize vocal and sound effects. The S1 Bundle comes with a condenser microphone that lets you start podcasting or live to stream easily in no time. Start recording when you plug into the smartphone or PC.
  • SPECIAL EFFECTS: Four user recordable, eight Built-in special audio effects, and various adjustments available for your creation. Fixed audio effects like APPLAUSE, LAUGHTER, CHEERING...Note please record your own audio effects you like to audio interface according to the instructions.
  • START YOUR OWN CONCERT: 10-step reverb & 12-step electronic music & 3 modifiable tones (Treble, mid-range, bass) make this audio interface more entertaining and meet more live recording needs.
  • PACKAGE LIST: 1* MIC, 1* Mic Cable, 1* Mic tripod, 1* windscreen muff, 1* Audio interface mixer, 1* Charging cable, 2* 3.5mm TRRS Audio Cable, 1* User manual. We provide a 12-Month warranty. For a better user experience, please download more instructions below and read user manual before setting up. Maonocaster Lite AM200 only supports 3.5mm microphone input and does not support phantom power. The included microphone is forbidden to be used with phantom power.
  • BORN FOR LIVE STREAMING: MAONO DJ mixer controller supports up to 2 person, 4 devices and 4 platforms to stream simultaneously. Highlights of this set, you can change your voice to the male, female, girlish, robot. Two mic inputs, One Accompaniment input, and real-time monitoring, good noise reduction effect after pressing DENOISE button. It is compatible with IOS and Android systems.
  • Rugged Steel Chassis: With sealed rotary controls to resist dust and grime, this compact DJ mixer will provide total dynamic control for the ultimate in punch and clarity; This incredibly versatile mixer is great for high quality on stage performance, live gigs, and Karaoke; Effortlessly achieve premium quality crystal clear studio level quality musical playback
  • New Multi Voltage Power Supply : 100V 240V (plus/ 15V DC Power adapter) ideal for worldwide usage; Enjoy a value packed mixing solution today with performances that sound great each time
  • MIC plus Sterero Line Inputs : Supporting XLR and unbalanced 1/4" plug with plus 48V phantom buttons, highly accurate LED peak level indicator and ultra musical 3 band EQ on all channels; Ultra low noise, high headroom mixer with super easy functionality for professional vocal and instrumental sound
  • USB/Flash Reader /MP3 Compatibility : Connect your external USB, computer PC, flash drive or Bluetooth device to Mix & record; Use the built in controls to play/pause, skip tracks and switch between modes
  • Bluetooth Wireless Music Streaming : Hassle and cable free audio streaming ability directly to the console unit; Mix your iPad, iPhone, Android smart phone to your DJ session; This audio mixer makes it a breeze to wirelessly stream all your favorite music tunes to the mixing board easily from Pandora or Spotify
  • 12 Channel Compact Effects Mixer with Proven High-Headroom, Low-Noise Performance
  • 12 great sounding integrated effects including reverbs, choruses and delays
  • Dedicated Stereo RCA inputs/outputs for playback or recording
  • 4 mic/line inputs with studio-level quality, 3-band EQ with clean, precise tone shaping, low cut filter (75 Hz), pan, level and overload indication, phantom power for studio condenser mics
  • 4 Stereo 1/4 line inputs
7 Behringer Q1202USB 12-Channel Mixer
Our Score:
8.6
Behringer
  • 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
  • 4 state-of-the-art Xenyx Mic Preamps comparable to stand-alone boutique preamps
8 Pyle Professional Audio Mixer
Our Score:
8.4
Pyle
  • RUGGED STEEL CHASSIS - With sealed rotary controls to resist dust and grime, this compact DJ Mixer will provide total dynamic control. This incredibly versatile mixer is great for high quality on stage performance, live gigs and Karaoke.
  • BLUETOOTH WIRELESS STREAMING - Hassle and cable-free audio streaming ability directly to the console unit. This audio mixer can wirelessly stream music tunes from iPad, iPhone and Android Smart Phone with mixing board from Pandora or Spotify.
  • USB/FLASH READER/MP3 COMPATIBILITY - Connect your external USB, computer PC, flash drive or Bluetooth device to mix & record. Use the built-in controls to play/pause, skip tracks and switch between modes.
  • NEW MULTI-VOLTAGE POWER SUPPLY - 100V-240V (+/-15V DC power adapter) ideal for worldwide usage. Enjoy a value packed mixing solution today with performances that sound great each time.
  • Included components: Power Cable
  • MIC AND STEREO LINE INPUTS - Supporting XLR and unbalanced 1/4" Plug with plus 48V Phantom button, highly accurate LED Peak Level Indicator and Ultra-musical 3-band EQ on all channels. Ultra-low noise, high headroom mixer with super easy functionality.
  • 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)
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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.】
  • TOUGH YET PORTABLE - Portable yet durable build with a smooth, intuitive design
  • STEREO & MONO - 5 x 1/8" (3.5mm) stereo jacks with Mono to Stereo DM2S adapter included
  • MIXER WITH VERSATILITY - Mix audio/music from computers, smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, Amazon Echo/Dot, mics and instruments
  • AMPLIFY SIGNAL - Powered by AC adapter, increase signals from MIC to LINE level to a max gain of 50 dB for each input
  • 3 OUTPUTS - 1/8" (3.5mm) Headphones, Output to speakers, and REC OUT stereo jacks for 3 simultaneous outputs
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What Methods And Things For You To Consider When Purchasing On best budget mixer?

best budget mixer 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 best budget mixer 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. Firstly, you should look at some questions that are common concerns of buyers:

  • Does this product value?
  • How could you pick the best one among the various products?
  • What is the best model of this product on the market now?
  • Where is it available for you to get assistance with product-related problems?
  • What is the upside of this product?

Currently, the keyword has become one of the most kinds of products searched the most by customers. It tends to be more straightforward thanks to the availability of information sources on the Internet such as sale websites, consulting forums, or valuable sources like your relative’s experience. 

With the significant support from the sources above, you need to keep in mind some main criteria of best budget mixer below:

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.

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.

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.

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!

Functionality

Sometimes the most complicated mixers aren't necessarily the best. If you don't know what you want, it is best to choose something simple to use.
An easy-to-use user interface is essential for a sound mixer. If you don't want to be a professional engineer and use the mixer only for audio purposes, a simple interface is crucial. The ease of operation will allow you to understand what's happening and how you can manipulate it. If you want to be the next Dr. Dre then learn from others and dive into more complex interfaces.

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.

Recording Options

Modern mixers offer integrated recording. You can record the main mix on two tracks or a multitrack track. This is possible with either an onboard or computer recorder. Look for the type of bus (USB/AVB/FireWire) when evaluating different computer recording options. Included software and the recording bit depth as well as sample rate and sampling rate. Modern mixers that have recording capabilities offer 24-bit recording at 44.1 KHz or more.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

Can I Hear My Voice In Real Time? And Will It Record Directly On My Android Phone?

Any sound can be heard entering the mixer. You can also hear your voice through a microphone from the outputs. We recommend that you use the headphones output to hear your voice. Speakers will most likely cause feedback.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Is It Possible To Send The Recorded Audio From One Mic To Two Devices At Once And Listen To Both Of Those Devices At The Same Time?

Mixers are usually one-way, even this mixer. You can either record audio and send it to two devices or receive audio via one pair of headphones. However, it is not possible to simultaneously do them both. You would have to split the signals from both the microphone and devices into separate signal paths.

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.

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.

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.

In short, the descriptions of best budget mixer would be updated when the data is upgraded and available. Please visit our website frequently to get the latest updates.

Our staff team is always available and ready to support you with your complex problems. Try to contact us as soon as possible whenever your product obstacles come up. Feel free for that!


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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.