The Digital Mixer For Home Studio In 2024

Harlan Ellison By, Harlan Ellison
Updated
Tascam DP-24SD 24-Track Digital Portastudio Multi-Track Audio
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Of The Best: Tascam DP-24SD 24-Track Digital Portastudio Multi-Track Audio

The TASCAM DP-24SD is a powerful digital 24 track multi-track audio recorder, with 18 track faders, one master fader and an intuitive interface that makes it easy to use. It records to SD/SDHC cards and has a powerful software package, allowing you to quickly move between recording and editing without any hassle. Read Review

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

The MG10XU Mixer from Yamaha is a 10-input stereo mixer with a built-in effects unit for live sound and recording. Featuring three band EQ and high pass filters, this mixer gives you maximum control over your sound. The 1 knob compressors on the MG10XU give you easy control over your mix with the ability to add life to your vocals, bass, drums or guitars. Read Review

3. Budget Pick: Mackie Mix8 8-Channel

Mackie's Mix8 is an 8-channel compact mixer with low-noise, high headroom, and proven performance. The Mackie Mix8 mixer has two stereo 1/4" line inputs with a trim control for each. The FX send controls are post-fader and pre-fader with 3-band EQs available on all channels. The Mackie Mix8 mixer also features a limiter to avoid distortion when using the EQs heavily. Read Review

4. Best Performance: Zoom LiveTrak L-8 Podcast Recorder

The Zoom LiveTrak L-8 is the perfect tool for recording and mixing podcasts, reality TV and talk radio shows, live music performances, and more. This 8-channel mixer features six combo inputs (with balanced XLR/TRS inputs), plus two TRS inputs. Its built-in digital effects processor provides a variety of reverbs, EQs and delays to give you a professional sound. You can also mix minus audio from dial-in guests for on-air programming without the Read Review

Digital mixers are becoming more commonplace in home studios thanks to their cost, versatility, and ease of use.

With the right digital mixer, you can record vocals or instruments directly from your microphone into your computer with zero noise. They’re much more affordable than analog mixers, and there are also some fantastic bargains out there. Digital mixers won’t give you that vintage vibe or the same level of control as a dedicated analog mixer such as a tube preamp with multiple inputs and outputs, but they do offer a lot of benefits that make them worth considering if you’re on a budget.

This article covers the benefits of a Digital mixer for home studios, different types, standard connections, and uses in home recording studios. We trust that Tascam DP-24SD 24-Track Digital Portastudio Multi-Track Audio is the top of the strongest among some of the top models. Unless you were satisfied with the previous item, you can also choose YAMAHA MG10XU 10-Input Stereo Mixer with Effects as a replacement.

Our Top Picks

  • Records to SD/SDHC cards to provide fast, secure and reliable capture of every vocal line, guitar lick and drum hit.
  • Built-in multi effects processor and mastering tools make it easy to go from demo to finished product.
  • Eighteen track faders and one master fader allows instant access to any track without selecting pages or banks of faders.
  • 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)
  • 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:
9.7
Yamaha
  • 3 band EQ and high pass filters give you maximum control and eliminate unwanted noise, resulting in a cleaner mix
  • Dimensions(W×H×D): 244 millimeter x 71 millimeter x 294 millimeter (9.6x2.8x11.6 inches)
  • 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
  • Note: Please refer to the user manual before use
  • 10 channel mixer with USB and SPX digital effects
TOP Choice #3 Mackie Mix8 8-Channel
Our Score:
9.5
Mackie
  • 3-band EQ on all channels with clean, precise tone shaping
  • 8 Channel Compact Effects Mixer with Proven High-Headroom, Low-Noise Performance
  • 2 mic/line inputs with studio-level audio quality, pan, level and overload indication and phantom power for studio condenser mics
  • 2 stereo 1/4" line inputs
  • 1 aux send with stereo 1/4'' returns
4 Zoom LiveTrak L-8 Podcast Recorder
Our Score:
9.3
Zoom
  • 6 assignable sound pads, with 13 preset sounds
  • 12-Track simultaneous recording, 10-track playback
  • 8-Channel digital mixer ( 6 combo, plus 2 TS inputs )
  • Battery operated with four AA batteries or a USB power supply
  • Mix-minus function preventing audio feedback from dial-in guests
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • PUSH TYPE SPEAKER TERMINAL: The sound amplifying mixer device lets you easily connect speaker wires directly to the amplifier. The total speaker impedance must be at least 4 Ohm per channel at stereo mode
  • EQ CONTROLS: The improved professional compact bookshelf sound amplifier features crisp and responsive button for power switch and rotary knob controls for mic volume, balance, bass, treble, master volume, and input source
  • PAGER/MIXING MODE: The mini integrated indoor AV receiver features pager and mixing switch. In pager mode, the signal from the microphone will override to auto talkover, use for hosting and meetings. Switch to mixing mode for a fun karaoke session
  • 4 INPUTS: This personal digital amp box supports various external sources 3 pairs RCA audio input for tuner, CD player, tape deck, camcorder or VCR, 1/4" microphone IN, 1/4" headphone jack input. Also features a REC output for recording
  • 2X120 WATT POWER: The Pyle Dual Channel Stereo Amplifier is perfect for your PA and home theater acoustic sound system. Gives you 2x120W power which can be used for multi speakers w/ 4 ohm impedance, enjoy high quality amplified audio
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • Built in Studio Effects - 15 DSP effects with channel FX Sends and Master FX return level to adjust the volume of MultiMix 4 USB FX’s internal FX processor
  • Perfect Capture - Class compliant (Mac & PC) USB audio interface records at 16-bit, 44.1/48 kHz resolution and sends computer audio to powered loudspeakers and headphones
  • Connects to all Your Studio Equipment - Stereo (2) 1/4" outputs connect to active monitors, amplifiers and recording devices; headphone output with independent level control
  • Home Studio Recording Essentials - XLR inputs with gain trim and switchable high-pass filters; Dual-band EQ on channels 1-4; Multicolor LED metering for real-time, visual level feedback
  • Portable, Feature-Packed Mixing Desk - 4-channel mixer with 1/4" line level inputs, a high impedance input / switch for electric guitar and bass (DI), plus XLR inputs with 48V phantom power
  • Professional Software Suite - Includes AKAI Professional MPC Beats
  • 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.
  • 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!
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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)
  • This portable 6-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
  • The device caters multiple device connectivity because it has 8 channels. It has 1 1/4’’ (L/R) monitor outputs, 1 XLR(L/R) stereo output, 6 XLR & 1/4’’ microphone inputs, 1 pairs 1/4’’ mono + stereo,1/4’’ FX send and 1/4’’ headphone jack
  • 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. Suitable for various recordings of individuals, bands and professionals
  • 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. 99 DSP Effect, can meet most of the scene recording requirements
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a digital mixer for home studio?

The digital mixer for home studio is based upon a number of factors. Studying a product differs depending on the product type. So, we're on here to help, counsel, and provide solutions to these problems.

Please keep in mind the following points for selecting digital mixer for home studio:

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

As we are product consulting experts with a wide range of experience, we determine correct information. Apart from that, we keep the digital mixer for home studio current. You may rest confident that the data is accurate and up to date.

Besides digital mixer for home studio, we can advise you with anything. Please do not hesitate to contact us whenever you need guidance.


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About Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison is a writer and audio equipment enthusiast. He's particularly interested in home theater HiFi audio, and he has been the editor of The Audio Insights since its inception. Harlan is known for his sharp wit and scathing critiques, but he also has a great love of music and audio gear. When he's not writing or editing, Harlan can be found listening to music or watching movies with his wife.