The 10 Best Mixer For Daw Of 2025, Researched By Us
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: Korg nanoKONTROL2 Slim-Line USB Control Surface
The Korg nanoKONTROL2 Slim-Line USB Control Surface offers a low-profile, multi-function control surface for easy access to a variety of parameters. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: BEHRINGER X32
The Behringer X32 is designed for demanding professional applications. The X32 provides 40 input channels, 25 buses and a total of 64 mix outputs. Read Review
3. Best Connectivity: StudioLive 16.0.2 USB 16x2 Performance & Recording Digital Mixer
The StudioLive 16.0.2 USB 16x2 Performance and Recording Digital Mixer is a 12-channel, all-inclusive, easy-to-use digital mixing system with integrated audio interface that provides the heart of the live sound system and control room mix. Read Review
4. Best Compact: Icon Pro Audio, ICOC-PLATFORMMM+, Icon Pro Audio Platform M+ MIDI
The Icon Pro Audio Platform M+ is the most versatile and powerful MIDI controller available, designed for professional musicians, producers and DJs. Read Review
In recent years, digital audio workstation (DAW) software has become increasingly popular in the home recording world. A DAW is a computer program that enables users to record, edit and mix audio files. Since most DAWs are designed to be user-friendly and straightforward, anyone interested in registering their music or collaborating on a project with other musicians can use one without any previous experience or knowledge of audio engineering. If you’re looking for the best mixer for a daw, keep reading to learn more about these robust programs and how they can benefit your next recording project.
Before making our recommendations, our specialists spend substantial time researching and analyzing your requirements. Then we found that our Korg nanoKONTROL2 Slim-Line USB Control Surface is the greatest choice for its high-quality performance thanks to two rows of eight knobs, plus one row of eight sliders. We added other mixers from various brands for you if you're looking for another one.
RELATED: We compiled a list of analog mixer with daw control of January 2025 that you can buy on the internet based on 6,718 reviews from former users.
Our Top Picks
TOP Choice #1
![Korg nanoKONTROL2 Slim-Line USB Control Surface]()
- Supports numerous software titles including major DAW programs
- Low-profile, multi-function control surface
- New track select and marker advance parameters
- 32 MIDAS-designed, fully programmable mic preamps for audiophile sound quality
- 40-input channel, 25-bus digital mixing console for Studio and Live application
- 16 XLR outputs plus 6 additional line in/outputs, 2 phones connectors and a talkback section with integrated or
- Individual and dynamic LCD Scribble Strips on all channels and buses creating easy assignment and intuitive
- 25 Fully automated motorized 100 mm faders allow for instant overview, powerful scene management and DAW
- Scene and individual settings store and recall
- 12 Class A XMAX solid-state mic preamplifiers (12 channels + talkback)
- 16 channel inputs (8 mono and 4 stereo channel inputs with 60 mm faders (12 faders)
- Fat Channel signal processing on all channels and buses, with 3-band semi-parametric EQ, compressor, downward expander, and limiter
- 2 stereo 32-bit digital effects processors
- 4 auxiliary buses (pre/post-fader send) and 2 internal FX buses
- Stereo, 31-band graphic EQ on the main bus
- 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.
- MIDI I/O: control main and effects output levels, recall effects presets and Scenes, and serve as a MIDI interface
- 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
4
![Icon Pro Audio, ICOC-PLATFORMMM+, Icon Pro Audio Platform M+ MIDI]()
- 8 dual-function encoder knobs (rotate and enter)
- Mackie control built-in for Cubase, Nuendo, Amplitude, Logic Pro, Able ton Live, Reaper, Reason, Studio One and Bit wig
- Includes free recording software, such as Harrison 32C Vocal Intensity Processor, a "greatest hits" collection of features from Harrison's analog console heritage, Harrison AVA plugins and Mixbus32C workstation; Tracktion DAW Essentials, a collection of 16 contemporary FX plugins for use with any DAW; Dotec Audio plugins for streaming, podcasting, recording and mixing; and Bitwig Studio 8-Track, the trim and effective digital audio workstation to start producing, performing, and designing sounds like a pro, all available via download upon purchase and registration
- Class-compliant with macOS Big Sur (M1 and Intel Compatible), Windows 10, and Windows 8/7 (32 & 64-bit)
- 1-year warranty (18-month with registration) valid if purchased from authorized US dealers
- Platform D2 optional LCD display available separately
- 8+1 touch-sensitive motorized faders with 10-bit resolution
5
![Mackie ProFX12v3 12-Channel Unpowered Mixer USB Bundle]()
- With a single knob, you can blend between monitoring your computers output and a direct feed from the mixer. Great for recording overdubs alongside a pre-recorded track.
- Equipped with 7 Onyx mic press offering up to 60dB of gain and ultra-low noise performance perfect for microphones popular with content creators that require high-gain preamps.
- Designed for maximum versatility making it perfect for live sound, home recording, content creation, and live streaming with included Waveform OEM DAW and DAW Essentials Collection of 16 contemporary FX plug-ins for use with any DAW.
- This Mackie ProFX12v3 12-Channel Unpowered Mixer comes with all the manufacturer accessories and a 1-year USA warranty along with a 21-piece bundle which includes 4x Mophead 10' TRS balanced male to male 1/4" cable, 4x 10' XLR male to XLR female cable, 2x TRS 1/4" stereo to 3.5mm TRS adapter, 10x cable ties and Circuit City microfiber cloth.
- Lay down your tracks in incredible 24-bit/ 192kHz quality for the cleanest recordings possible 2x4 USB I/O allows you to create two custom mixes on your computer to send back in to the mixer, great for situations when you need to monitor specific tracks during playback in addition to the full mix.
6
![Mackie ProFX10v3 10-Channel Unpowered Mixer USB]()
- Designed for maximum versatility making it perfect for live sound, home recording, content creation, and live streaming with included Waveform OEM DAW and DAW Essentials Collection of 16 contemporary FX plug-ins for use with any DAW.
- Equipped with 4 Onyx mic press offering up to 60dB of gain and ultra-low noise performance. Perfect for microphones popular with content creators that require high-gain preamps.
- With a single knob, you can blend between monitoring your computers output and a direct feed from the mixer. Great for recording overdubs alongside a pre-recorded track.
- Lay down your tracks in incredible 24-bit/ 192kHz quality for the cleanest recordings possible 2x4 USB I/O allows you to create two custom mixes on your computer to send back in to the mixer, great for situations when you need to monitor specific tracks during playback in addition to the full mix.
- This Mackie ProFX10v3 10-Channel Unpowered Mixer comes with all the manufacturer accessories and a 1-year USA warranty along with a 21-piece bundle which includes 4x Mophead 10' TRS balanced male to male 1/4" cable, 4x 10' XLR male to XLR female cable, 2x TRS 1/4" stereo to 3.5mm TRS adapter, 10x cable ties and Circuit City microfiber cloth.
- This Mackie ProFX16v3 16-Channel Unpowered Mixer comes with all the manufacturer accessories and a 1-year USA warranty along with a 21-piece bundle which includes 4x Mophead 10' TRS balanced male to male 1/4" cable, 4x 10' XLR male to XLR female cable, 2x TRS 1/4" stereo to 3.5mm TRS adapter, 10x cable ties and Circuit City microfiber cloth.
- Designed for maximum versatility making it perfect for live sound, home recording, content creation, and live streaming with included Waveform OEM DAW and DAW Essentials Collection of 16 contemporary FX plug-ins for use with any DAW.
- Equipped with 11 Onyx mic press offering up to 60dB of gain and ultra-low noise performance. Perfect for microphones popular with content creators that require high-gain preamps.
- With a single knob, you can blend between monitoring your computers output and a direct feed from the mixer. Great for recording overdubs alongside a pre-recorded track.
- Lay down your tracks in incredible 24-bit/ 192kHz quality for the cleanest recordings possible 2x4 USB I/O allows you to create two custom mixes on your computer to send back in to the mixer, great for situations when you need to monitor specific tracks during playback in addition to the full mix.
- All the tools you need to start recording right, now - We’ve partnered with our favourite industry partners to provide you with plenty of sound content and software so that you can create and record music right away. Create studio quality vocals, powerful guitars, luscious keys and huge drums.
- Studio quality recordings for your music and podcasts - You can achieve professional sounding recordings with Scarlett’s high-performance converters which enable you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz. Your recordings will retain all of their sonic qualities so that you can sound like the artists you admire.
- Get the perfect guitar take - There’s no need to sacrifice your tone with the high headroom instrument input when recording your guitar and basses. Capture your instruments in all their glory without any unwanted clipping or distortion thanks to our Gain Halos.
- Easy Start - It’s easier than ever to get up and running with your Scarlett with our online tool, Easy Start. Whether you’re looking to record or playback audio, we will help you get started.
- Pro performance with the finest pre-amps - Achieve a brighter and a more open recording thanks to the best performing mic pre-amps the Scarlett range has ever seen. A switchable Air mode will add extra clarity to your vocals when recording with your Scarlett Solo.
- Low-noise for crystal clear listening - Two low-noise balanced outputs provide clean audio playback. Hear all the details and nuances of your own track or music from Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music. Plug-in your own headphones via the output for private listening in high-fidelity.
- 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
- 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
- +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)
- 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 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
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![Depensheng DX12 DJ Sound Controller Interface w/ USB Drive]()
- 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.】
- 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)
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What to Look For in a best mixer for daw?
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
FAQs
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.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.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.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.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 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.It's time to start buying when you've determined the best types of best mixer for daw and the characteristics you want. It's important to remember that you needn't rush out to a certain store or browse internet discounts just soon. You may quickly discover your pal thanks technological advancements, particularly the proliferation of selling sites.
Try to keep an eye on our site's regular to guarantee the latest deals best mixer for daw passes our standards. As a result, you'll be able to close the gap with them. Could you kindly provide us with feedback so that we can satisfy you guys, our customers? Wish you a great shopping experience!
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