The Best Mixer For Home Recording In 2024

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
Tascam DP-24SD 24-Track Digital Portastudio Multi-Track Audio Recorder
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Tascam DP-24SD 24-Track Digital Portastudio Multi-Track Audio Recorder

The Tascam DP-24SD 24-Track Digital Portastudio Multi-Track Audio Recorder is a digital audio recorder that is capable of storing up to 24 tracks of uncompressed audio in a single session making it perfect for musicians, songwriters, and performers. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: YAMAHA MG10XU 10-Input Stereo Mixer with Effects

The Yamaha MG10XU 10-Input Stereo Mixer with Effects provides you with the perfect solution for combining your instruments and vocals into a single, cohesive sound. It comes ready to plug in and play. The 1 knob compressors allow you to easily control the input levels, resulting in a livelier guitar, punchier bass line and a cleaner vocal sound. Read Review

3. Upgrade pick: Tascam DP-24SD 24-Track Digital PortaStudio Multi-Track Audio

The Tascam DP-24SD 24-Track Digital PortaStudio is a recording system in which musicians can perform essential professional band recording and audio production at the comfort of their own home. With a user interface based around this concept, the DP-24SD has no layered structure and features self-illuminated buttons and full color LCD screens. Read Review

4. Best Compatible: PreSonus AudioBox 96 Studio USB 2.0 Recording Bundle with Interface, Headphones

The AudioBox 96 Studio USB 2.0 Recording Bundle is an all-in-one studio package that includes the AudioBox USB interface and Studio One Artist, a powerful and easy-to-use software suite with 16 tracks, unlimited audio and MIDI tracks, and over 100 virtual instruments and effects. Read Review

If you want to record and produce your own music, you need a home studio setup that is capable of producing professional results.

The mixer is one of the most important elements of any recording setup because it plays a crucial role in how your final recording sounds. A good mixer will have a high dynamic range and provide noise-free operation while also enabling you to mix up to 10 different audio tracks simultaneously.

Read on to find out more about what makes a good home recording mixer and our top recommendations. With the help of a professional research team, we have found the best mixer for home recording. Check our review of various models like Tascam DP-24SD 24-Track Digital Portastudio Multi-Track Audio Recorder and YAMAHA MG10XU 10-Input Stereo Mixer with Effects and choose the suitable one for you.

Our Top Picks

  • Remote connector for optional RC-3F footswitch. OS :Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Mac OS X Snow Leopard(V10.6), OS X Lion(V10.7), OS X Mountain Lion(V10.8), OS X Mavericks(V10.9)
  • Eighteen track faders and one master fader allows instant access to any track without selecting pages or banks of faders.
  • Built-in multi effects processor and mastering tools make it easy to go from demo to finished product.
  • Records to SD/SDHC cards to provide fast, secure and reliable capture of every vocal line, guitar lick and drum hit.
  • 3.5" LCD screen and select, self-illuminated buttons - make it easy to keep an eye on your entire creative process.
TOP Choice #2 YAMAHA MG10XU 10-Input Stereo Mixer with Effects
Our Score:
9.8
Yamaha
  • 3 band EQ and high pass filters give you maximum control and eliminate unwanted noise, resulting in a cleaner mix
  • Note: Please refer to the user manual before use
  • Dimensions(W×H×D): 244 millimeter x 71 millimeter x 294 millimeter (9.6x2.8x11.6 inches)
  • 10 channel mixer with USB and SPX digital effects
  • MG Series mixers feature a rugged, impact resistant, powder coated metal chassis; Equivalent input noise 128 dBu, residual output noise 102 dBu
  • 1 knob compressors allow easy control resulting in livelier guitars, punchier bass lines, a tighter snare and a cleaner vocal sound
  • Featuring studio grade discrete class A D PRE amps with inverted Darlington circuit providing fat, natural sounding bass and smooth, soaring highs
  • POWERFUL AMPLIFIER: The DP-24SD Digital PortaStudio is a recording system in which musicians can perform essential professional band recording and audio production at the comfort of their own home. Even in loud environments, the high output powered amplifier makes headphone monitoring easy
  • HIGH-QUALITY MIXING: When it comes to mixing, users can perform a speedy mix-down with intuitive operation thanks to the full-color LCD, encoders, and faders of the DP-24SD. Available mixing effects include reverbs and spatial effects that you can use to enhance your music, resulting in audio with quality as high as that of professional studio productions
  • USER INTERFACE: The series’ biggest feature is its hassle-free user interface built upon this concept. Various full-color LCD screens and self-illuminated buttons offer superb visibility. Furthermore, the same number of faders as tracks have been included, eliminating layer structuring and making volume control more intuitive
  • BUNDLE INCLUDES: Tascam DP-24SD 24-Track Digital PortaStudio Multi-Track Audio Recorder, Knox Gear TX-100 Closed-Back Studio Monitor Headphones, 2 x Kirlin 1/4-Inch TRS Patch Cable (6-Feet), and 2 x Focus Camera by Kirlin 25-Feet XLR Male to XLR Female Microphone Cable
  • Rugged AudioBox USB 96 audio/MIDI interface for recording vocals and instruments.
  • Studio One Artist and Studio Magic included—that’s over $1000 USD of professional audio software.
  • M7 large-diaphragm studio condenser microphone is great for recording your vocals, acoustic guitar, and other general sources (Mic-stand adapter and cloth carry bag included).
  • HD7 headphones let you mix, monitor, and produce without bothering your roommates.
  • Everything you need to record and produce at home in a single purchase.
  • 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
  • 4-CHANNEL MIXER: The device caters multiple device connectivity because it has 4 channels. It has 2 1/4’’ (L/R) main outputs, 2 XLR/14’’ combo audio line or microphone inputs, 1/4’’ Mono + Stereo Inputs, 1/4’’ Send + Return Inputs and 1/4’’ headphone jack
  • 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
  • +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 4-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
  • 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)
  • 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
7 Phenyx Pro USB Audio Interface Mixer
Our Score:
9.1
Phenyx Pro
  • DEVOTED SERVICE: Genuine Phenyx Pro audio products come with 12-month manufacturer assurance and supportive customer service. Welcome to come to us for troubleshooting or replacement of discontinuous/defective parts.
  • USB AUDIO INTERFCE: Built-in audio interface can connect directly to your PC/Mac/PS4 and record/edit/monitor high quality audio with Pro Tools/Logic Pro X/GarageBand/Audacity and more software. It also works with Mac Catalina and can run off USB power without needing an adapter
  • STURDY BUILD, PORTABLE MIXER: This voice mixer has compact portable size, light-weight and easy to carry around for small gigs and travel. It can be adapter or USB powered. Sturdy built quality aims for long-term and heavy use
  • 4-INPUT AND 3-BAND EQ: This premium ultra-low noise audio preamp has 4 inputs. It features ultra-musical 3-band EQ control and +48V Phantom Power switch on Ch. 1, enabling easy and accurate adjustment of personal music mix. Ch.1 has combo mic/instrument inputs 
  • CLEAN SOUND QUALITY: It produces solid, clear, and clean sound with minimum hiss noise, good for home recording, live streaming, meeting rooms, and small venues. The built-in high quality digital echo effect adds personality to your mix from Ch. 1. It can be used as an input device to do webcasting, podcast, gaming video, voiceovers, or music production
  • ALL IN ONE and EASY TO USE: Works as a USB audio interface plus the audio mixer. 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 S4 podcast equipment bundle comes with a 25mm large-diaphragm premium-grade condenser microphone that lets you start podcasting or live to stream easily in no time.
  • 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.
  • 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 recording when you plug into the smartphone or PC.
  • THE PODCAST EQUIPMENT BUNDLE INCLUDE 1* mic, 1* mic cable, 1* shock mount,1*table stand, 1* windscreen muff, 1* podcast 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 the user manual before setting up.
  • START YOUR OWN CONCERT: 10-step reverb & 12-step electronic music & 3 modifiable tones (Treble, mid-range, bass) make this sound mixer more entertaining and meet more live recording needs.
  • BLUETOOTH MUSIC STREAMING: This sound mixer USB interface mixer is compatible w/ bluetooth and works w/ smartphone, tablet, laptop, pc w/ simple hassle-free pairing. Wirelessly stream music like Pandora / Spotify from your device directly to your mix
  • 6 INPUTS: Pyle DJ mixer USB audio interface mixer is equipped w/ 2 combo jack XLR+6.35mm for mic/line/guitar inputs, 2-TK, Stereo RCA in, AUX, and 3.5mm microphone input to CH2. Produce creative remix which is perfect for DJ party/music recording
  • 4 CHANNEL: This wireless 4 channel audio interface controller DJ mixer machine by Pyle is the perfect way to mix audio from MP3, mic, and bluetooth connected devices. Equipped with echo effect and each channel has its own pan, gain, and volume control
  • +48V PHANTOM POWER: For the reliable power source, the stage/studio sound mixing console features a +48V phantom power supply. has ultra-low noise design with high headroom and rugged metal chassis. Perfect for both beginners & professional
  • USB INTERFACE AND MIX MONITORING: This personal mixer has a USB port  to connect to a computer and use it as an audio output and input interface for playing & recording and 3.5mm jacks for microphone Input & mix monitoring via headphones
  • Fine-tune your audio: MAONOCASTER has 6 reverb modes, auto-tune, and 4 pitch changers. Each microphone input is independently controlled can be muted with one tap. Pro features like sidechain, mix-minus, noise-canceling, and loopback switch are also included.
  • Multi-channel Mixing/Streaming and Monitoring:It offers four channels of audio mixing and easy connections to microphones, smartphones, PC, Mac, and other sources; Advanced engineering that allows the user to control the sound levels and add live vocal and sound effects through a comprehensive set of tools to avoid difficult post-production and editing. Built-in rechargeable battery for even more portability.
  • XLR, Phantom Power and Supports Premium Microphones: MAONOCASTER features two separate premium-quality MIC amplifiers with XLR interfaces. This Single Mic Bundle also includes a PM320T XLR Cardioid Condenser Microphone: Built-in professional condenser capsule, Custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm provides extended frequency response and superior transient response. High-SPL handling and wide dynamic range make wide versatility.
  • MAONOCASTER has been named a CES Innovation Award 2021 in the streaming category. It is exactly what you need when you want to get your podcast, radio shows, or Twitch streams off the ground easily but are not sure what gear to buy. It is so easy and intuitive to use that you can jump headfirst into podcasting or streaming within minutes. It simplifies the content-creating process by integrating several digital audio mixing equipments into one comprehensive solution
  • Programmable jingles: All seven jingle pads are programmable with our PC/Mac APP. We have preloaded four audio effects. You can upload any audio effects you like to the MAONOCASTER. In addition, there is a cough button so you can let it all out while keeping your content clean!
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What To Know About The best mixer for home recording Before Purchasing It

There are numerous factors to consider buying a product. In the section below, we will give you some key points to pay attention to prior to buying a best mixer for home recording. Of course, It’s indispensable for buyers to do some research before making a purchase so that they won’t end up with something that can’t meet their expectations.

In this post, with our useful and available tips for shopping, we will make it easier for you to select and make the best decisions when tending to own the best mixer for home recording. Here is your area! Give it your attention and make it your assistant.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

FAQs

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

Conclusion

Hopefully, our sharing above will take you much closer with your best mixer for home recording. The model we suggested for you is equipped with all things you may need. Nevertheless, suppose you have a fancy for another one, we highly recommend Alesis MultiMix 4 USB FX | 4 Channel Compact Studio Mixer. To conclude, we wish you a pleasant shopping time. And if there is any problem related to this article that you wonder about, please contact us soon for timely answers. It's our pleasure to serve you!


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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.