The 10 Best Small Mixers Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
YAMAHA MG06X 6-Input
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: YAMAHA MG06X 6-Input

Apply this philosophy of transparent sound; this mixing console delivers a level of sonic purity and quality unmatched in its class. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Behringer Xenyx 802 Premium 8-Input

Simple sound calls for the XENYX 802, the great BEHRINGER mixer with everything you need to create an excellent acoustic space. Read Review

3. Best Audio Quality: Mackie Mix Series, 5-Channel

The Mix series compact mixers have dependable ruggedness, with the proven quality you expect from Mackie, the world leader in compact mixer design. Read Review

4. Best Flexibility: Mackie Mix8 8-Channel

Mix8 has a simple design. The channel configuration is two microphone channel strips and two line-level stereo channel strips. Read Review

An audio mixer, sometimes called a recording console, is a piece of equipment that operates in several environments. It is used in recording studios and at live concerts. But also in broadcasting audio via TV and or movies. Whatever its place of work, its job is straightforward to receive an audio signal, process it, and then monitor the output.

However, finding a suitable mixer for your audio needs can be difficult. Of course, you want something movable, so size is often a deciding factor. Additionally, you'll want to consider what you're looking for in a mixer regarding quality, available connection types, functionality, and the number of channels.
Each of these factors will play an essential role in helping you arrive at a decision that can get overwhelmingly quickly. We have compiled a list of the Best small mixers available.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 YAMAHA MG06X 6-Input
Our Score:
9.8
Yamaha

The MG series mixing consoles feature Yamaha's discrete, studio-grade Class A discrete D-PRE preamplifiers, using an inverted Darlington circuit consisting of two cascaded transistors in a configuration that delivers more power with less impedance lower. This product provides rich bass, natural sound, and smooth, soaring highs with very low distortion,

TOP Choice #2 Behringer Xenyx 802 Premium 8-Input
Our Score:
9.7
Behringer

The ultra-compact XENYX 802 mixer's eight inputs (2 mics, two stereos + Aux Returns) let you quickly achieve high-quality sound, thanks to 2 virtual-assisted XENYX microphone amplifiers and ultrasonic EQ channels music "British."

XENYX preamps deliver an incredible 130 dB dynamic range, with bandwidth extending from less than 10 Hz to above 200 kHz.

TOP Choice #3 Mackie Mix Series, 5-Channel
Our Score:
9.5
Mackie

With Mackie preamps and proven low-noise, high-chamber design, Series Mix mixers sound great and maintain sound quality from any source. Plus, with their sturdy metal frames and high-quality components throughout, they're a solid investment in reliability. An incredible value, the Mix delivers the simple feature set, ease of use, and sound quality you need in durable designs built to last.

4 Mackie Mix8 8-Channel
Our Score:
9.3
Mackie

The eight-channel count is achieved through a mono-out stereo back-in, including a dedicated post transponder that sends on all four bands and a dedicated Auxiliary Main return.

All channels include a tri-band EQ, with the highest band in the middle. Input gain is only available on the two microphone inputs, but all four channel ranges have overload LEDs. 

5 Behringer Q1202USB 12-Channel Mixer
Our Score:
9.1
Behringer

The compact Q1202USB mixer lets you quickly achieve high-quality sound, thanks to 4 built-in studio-grade XENYX Mic preamps and a "British" super musical channel EQ. And our easy-to-use "one-knob" compressors provide total dynamic control for superb sound and clarity while respecting all the power and emotion you put into every note.

6 Pyle Professional Audio Mixer
Our Score:
9.0
Pyle

This device has Bluetooth wireless streaming. The hassle and cable-free audio streaming ability directly to the console unit. This audio mixer can wirelessly stream music tunes from iPhone,iPad, and Android Smart Phone with mixing board from Spotify or Pandora.

This compact DJ Mixer will provide total dynamic control with sealed rotary controls to resist dust and grime. 

7 Alesis MultiMix 4 USB FX
Our Score:
8.8
Alesis

The MultiMix 4 USB FX is a four-channel desktop audio mixer with a USB digital audio interface to mix audio life in your home studio and record directly to your computer. This compact mixer is perfect for computer recording setups, intimate live-sound environments, video editing and production studios, and mobile podcasting setups.

8 Yamaha AG06 Portable USB
Our Score:
8.7
Yamaha
  • High resolution (24-bit192kHz) 2-track audio recording and playback.
  • Easy control and pro sound with 1-TOUCH COMP/EQ, EFFECT and AMP SIM processing.
  • Product Code: 402VLZ4
  • 2 boutique-quality Onyx mic preamps
10 Mackie 802VLZ4, 8-channel Ultra
Our Score:
8.4
Mackie
  • Improved RF rejection perfect for Broadcast applications
  • 3 boutique-quality onyx mic preamps
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

How Can You Determine Which best small mixers Here Fulfills Your Requirement?

Often buyers are reluctant to buy best small mixers. When considering a large purchase, certain things should be examined. Our knowledge and experience of best small mixers will help in making the best options.

The top picks will cover several of the most noticeable things now available on the market and handle a few of the commonly asked questions:

  • What is the most effective method for clients to discover the ideal solution?
  • Do you think it's a good idea to spend your time and money on this purchase?
  • What are the most popular product lines these days?
  • What are the user benefits of the product?
  • What is the name of the place for everyone to ask for help?

Especially with the ubiquity of commerce websites, market forums, user ratings, and reviews, best small mixers have become one of the most important and valuable information sources available on the internet today.

In accordance with the quality that has been subjected to technical accreditation, they have been implemented. Keep in mind the following:

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

Quickly when new data becomes available, we routinely adjust the list of best small mixers. Please do regularly visit our website for the most up-to-date news.

If you have any questions or difficulties with best small mixers, please do not hesitate to contact us. We'll try our best to do everything we can to assist you if you ask!


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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.