The Best Small Audio Mixer For 2024

Tim Powers By, Tim Powers
Updated
YAMAHA MG10XU 10-Input Stereo Mixer with Effects
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Of The Best: YAMAHA MG10XU 10-Input Stereo Mixer with Effects

The YAMAHA MG10XU 10-Input Stereo Mixer is a professional quality mixer that offers a plethora of features for your home or project studio. Its onboard effects include 6-band EQ and high-pass filters, 1 knob compressors, and 12 on-board SPX digital effects. The MG10XU also includes 16 high quality sound op-amps for high fidelity audio playback. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Mackie Mix8 8-Channel Compact Mixer with Studio-Level Audio Quality

The Mackie Mix8 is an 8-channel mixer with pro-level audio performance and studio-level sound quality. This highly versatile mixer gives you eight premium inputs for your sources, including a high pass filter on all channels, lavaliere mic input with a dedicated level control, and more. Low on noise and high on headroom, the Mix8 is single rack space discreetly powered of the USB bus so it's easy to plug in. Read Review

3. Best Easy To Use: Pyle Professional Audio Mixer Sound Board Console System Interface

This Pyle Professional Audio Mixer Sound Board Console System Interface is a multi-functional device, capable of playing and recording audio files in MP3 format, playing music from USB flash drives and SD cards, and streaming Bluetooth wireless devices. Let the new Pyle Professional Audio Mixer Sound Board Console System Interface take your sound to the next level. Read Review

4. Best Sound Quality: YAMAHA MG06X 6-Input Compact Stereo Mixer with Effects

Yamaha's MG06X 6-Input Compact Stereo Mixer is a great introduction to electronic music production. This easy-to-use, portable mixer is packed with the tools you need to get started. With EQ and High-pass Filters, compressors, 1-Knob Compressors and high quality sound op-amp, this mixer has everything you need to begin your journey into the world of mixing audio. Read Review

If you’re looking for the best small audio mixer that can handle your home recordings or DJ gigs, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you play music at home or perform as a professional DJ, having a good-quality setup is imperative if you want to get the most out of your sound. Even so, most people don’t have the space or money to invest in an expensive and spacious setup.

That’s where small audio mixers come into play. They’re designed specifically for users who need a simple, cost-effective audio solution that can handle their basic recording needs without emptying their bank account. In this article, we'll highlight some of the highest-rated and best small audio mixers on the market today. Keep reading to learn more!

You are strongly encouraged to pay close attention to the YAMAHA MG10XU 10-Input Stereo Mixer with Effects as our top product. Or you can check the Mackie Mix8 8-Channel Compact Mixer with Studio-Level Audio Quality as the other great option, even if the first option didn't meet all of your requirements.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 YAMAHA MG10XU 10-Input Stereo Mixer with Effects
Our Score:
9.8
Yamaha
  • 10 channel mixer with USB and SPX digital effects
  • Featuring studio grade discrete class A D PRE amps with inverted Darlington circuit providing fat, natural sounding bass and smooth, soaring highs
  • MG Series mixers feature a rugged, impact resistant, powder coated metal chassis; Equivalent input noise 128 dBu, residual output noise 102 dBu
  • 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)
  • 3 band EQ and high pass filters give you maximum control and eliminate unwanted noise, resulting in a cleaner mix
  • 1 knob compressors allow easy control resulting in livelier guitars, punchier bass lines, a tighter snare and a cleaner vocal sound
  • 1 aux send with stereo 1/4'' returns
  • 2 mic/line inputs with studio-level audio quality, pan, level and overload indication and phantom power for studio condenser mics
  • 8 Channel Compact Effects Mixer with Proven High-Headroom, Low-Noise Performance
  • 2 stereo 1/4" line inputs
  • 3-band EQ on all channels with clean, precise tone shaping
  • 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
  • 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
  • MIC AND STEREO LINE INPUTS - Supporting XLR and unbalanced 1/4" Plug with +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
  • 3 band EQ and high pass filters give you maximum control and eliminate unwanted noise, resulting in a cleaner mix
  • Featuring studio grade discrete class A D PRE amps with inverted Darlington circuit providing fat, natural sounding bass and smooth, soaring highs
  • 6 channel stand-alone mixer with onboard SPX digital effects (no USB); 48V phantom power
  • MG Series mixers feature a rugged, impact resistant, powder coated metal chassis; LED level metering
  • 1 Knob compressors allow easy control resulting in livelier guitars, punchier bass lines, a tighter snare and a cleaner vocal sound
  • Studio-grade compressors with super-easy 'one-knob' functionality and control LED
  • Neo-classic 'British' 3-band EQs for warm and musical sound
  • Premium ultra-low noise, high headroom analog mixer
  • 4 state-of-the-art Xenyx Mic Preamps comparable to stand-alone boutique preamps
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Included components: Power Cable
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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 Audio Streaming : Cable free music streaming ability directly to the consoles; Mix all kinds of devices as smart phone to this audio mixer. Very easy to wirelessly stream all music tunes to the mixing board from Spotify or Pandora
  • Multi Devices Compatibility : USB/Flash Reader /MP3 or Bluetooth device are very easy to connect this mixer to Mix & record; Built in built in controls provide friendly experience to play/pause, skip tracks and switch between modes
  • Ultra-thin and Rugged Chassis: With only 1.4 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
  • New Multi Voltage Power Supply : 100V 240V (+/ 15V DC Power adapter) ideal for worldwide usage; offering optional power supplies that give an amazing friendly user experience【If there's any problem, please don't hesitate to contact us, we are very happy to help and strive for good customer service.】
  • MIC + Line Inputs : Supporting XLR and unbalanced 1/4" plug with +48V phantom buttons, highly accurate LED peak level indicator,10-Segment Stereo Output Level METER 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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 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
  • 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.
  • 4-INPUT, 3 BAND EQ, +48V Phantom Power: This professional ultra-low noise discrete mic preamp has 4 mono input channels with gold plated XLRs and balanced line inputs. Ultra-musical 3-band EQ on all channels to imbue signals with incredible warmth and detailed musical character. +48V phantom power switches on all channels enable use with condenser microphones with ease
  • USB AUDIO INTERFACE /BT FUNCTION: Bluetooth function enables users to wirelessly stream music from iPad/smartphone . USB audio interface with USB-A jack can play audio from USB drive or record to PC/iPad/Phone/USB stick with compatible adapters. Built-in controls to play/pause/switch between modes. ***CANNOT use USB and Bluetooth at the same time
  • HIGH QUALITY SOUND, VERSATILE USE: Extremely high headroom to offer more dynamic range. This audio mixer provides accurate, crisp and clear sound quality. The extra clean sounding effect makes it ideal for live mix in occasions like live gigs, shows, stage performance, DJ events, and karaoke. Besides, users can press ‘SOLO” button to monitor pre-fader unprocessed signal before output.
  • STEREO GRAPHIC EQUALIZER, 16 DSP EFFECTS: Sturdy metal builds for durability and white color design for an elegant look. Built-in sound effects processor provides 16 DSP effects, with detailed documentation to provide a better personal mix. This 4-input audio mixer also equipped with a stereographic equalizer provides tone control and precise high-quality sound over different frequencies.
  • +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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
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What to Look For in a best small audio mixer?

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

Conclusion

Choosing the best small audio mixer for your purposes might be a difficult challenge. It is critical to remember what you want to achieve with the purchase as well as any factors that may influence your selection. 
Whether it's as basic as reading reviews before purchasing or inspecting images of best small audio mixer on the market from numerous perspectives. When you wish to locate another one, you may also look at the 8-Ch. Bluetooth Stage Powered Mixer - 800W Pro Audio Sound Mixer. Now, let’s pick one for you!


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About Tim Powers

Tim Powers

Tim Powers is an audio equipment & home theater gadget reviewer and the editor of TheAudioInsights.com. He has been involved in the home theater hobby since the late 1990s when he purchased his first AV receiver. Tim is also a writer, with articles appearing in various online and print publications.