The Small Studio Mixer For 2024

Harlan Ellison By, Harlan Ellison
Updated
Mackie Mix8 8-Channel Compact Mixer with Studio
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Mackie Mix8 8-Channel Compact Mixer with Studio

Mackie Mix8 8-Channel Compact Mixer with Studio. The Mackie Mix8 is the perfect compact mixer for singer-songwriters, home studios and more. Featuring Mackie preamps and proven high-headroom, low-noise design, the Mix delivers great sound from any source. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: BEHRINGER, 22, 8X XLR

The BEHRINGER XENYX 22-channel ULR mixer provides professional-level production quality and performance right out of the box. The XENYX mic preamps offer high headroom for clean and clear sound, with a frequency response that has been especially tailored to deliver punchy bass, sparkling highs, and smooth mid-range. What's more, the XENYX mixers have a reputation as being some of the most reliable in the industry. Read Review

3. Upgrade pick: Pyle 4-Channel Bluetooth Studio Audio Mixer

Whether you're a DJ or a studio engineer, the Pyle Bluetooth 4-Channel Audio Mixer is the perfect tool for your needs. This recording mixer has LED indicator lights and rotary adjustment knobs for user convenience, and is perfect for professional studio applications and on-stage performances. With this mixer you can record sound straight to your computer, and connect to virtually any music playing device. Read Review

4. Best Compatible: Fineshine 8/12/16 Channel Audio Mixer

A professional mixer for any occasion, the Fineshine Audio Mixer has a 3 stage equalize to regulate your audio and 6 music modes to suit your mood. With 6 channels and 8 outputs, this mixer is perfect for when you have more than one speaker. The recording mixer also has an input selection, master volume controls, independent channel balance and high, low frequency adjustment. Read Review

In the world of recording, mixing is what makes a track stand out. A good mix is what can make listeners hear and feel the music as opposed to just listening to it. To achieve this, mixing requires a different approach from recording or editing. Mixing requires experienced ears, attention to detail and finesse. While individual preferences are subjective, there are some general principles that most mixers follow when mixing a track. 

The most common tools used for mixing include monitoring headphones, software mixer and an audio interface with small mixer inserts or auxiliary sends. But you don’t need all that just to get started with mixing your own music; in fact, you don’t even need any! Just a small studio mixer is enough.

In this article, we will introduce to you the best small studio mixers!

You can count on our team of experts who have spent over 16 hours conducting surveys through 2,286 real customer reviews. Because of this, we came to the conclusion that the best-reviewed product is Mackie Mix8 8-Channel Compact Mixer with Studio. And BEHRINGER, 22, 8X XLR is another choice for you while keeping the product's quality and functionality.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Mackie Mix8 8-Channel Compact Mixer with Studio
Our Score:
9.7
Mackie
  • 8-channel compact mixer with proven high-headroom, low-noise performance
  • 1 aux send with stereo 1/4'' returns
  • 3-band EQ on all channels with clean, precise tone shaping
  • 2 stereo 1/4" line inputs
  • 2 mic/line inputs with studio-level audio quality, pan, level and overload indication and phantom power for studio condenser mics
TOP Choice #2 BEHRINGER, 22, 8X XLR
Our Score:
9.6
Behringer
  • Neo-classic "British" 3-band EQs for warm and musical sound
  • Premium ultra-low noise, high headroom analog mixer. Long-wearing 60-millimeter logarithmic-taper faders and sealed rotary controls
  • 4 state-of-the-art, phantom-powered Xenyx mic preamps comparable to stand-alone boutique preamps
  • New studio-grade FX processor with 16 editable presets including reverb, chorus, flanger, delay, pitch shifter, multi-effects, Tap function and storable user parameter settings
  • 4 studio-grade compressors with super-easy "one-knob" functionality and control LED for professional vocal and instrumental sound
TOP Choice #3 Pyle 4-Channel Bluetooth Studio Audio Mixer
Our Score:
9.4
Pyle
  • 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
  • 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)
  • 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
  • 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 Fineshine 8/12/16 Channel Audio Mixer
Our Score:
9.3
Fineshine
  • Mono/Stereo Channel Input:With +48V Phantom Power Supply, Support Wired/Wireless/Capacitive Microphone Input, High Quality Microphone Amplifier.
  • Intelligently Compatible Various Equipment: It has complete functions and can be connected with various electronic equipment with audio input interface, and can be used for more large, medium and small occasions.
  • 6 Music Modes: natural, P0P, rock, jazz, classical, country music,equivalent input noise -122dbu, residual output noise < -90dbu.
  • 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.
  • Audio Mixer: 3 stage equalization regulate,by adjusting knob to adjust the reverb depth and delay effect.
  • 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
  • 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)
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
7 Alesis MultiMix 4 USB FX
Our Score:
8.9
Alesis
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • Professional Software Suite - Includes AKAI Professional MPC Beats
  • 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)
  • 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.】
  • Wireless Bluetooth: The bluetooth wireless range is within 15 ft.Very easy to wirelessly stream all music tunes to the mixing board from Spotify or Pandora
  • 12-CHANNEL DJ Mixer: The mixer is great for multiple devices connectivity because it has 12 channels,and 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
  • 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.
9 PYLE Sound 6 Channel Bluetooth
Our Score:
8.6
Pyle
  • BLUETOOTH COMPATIBLE: Hassle-free audio streaming ability directly to the console unit. Mix your iPad, iPhone, Android smartphone music to your DJ session. This audio mixer allows you to wirelessly stream music tunes from Pandora/Spotify
  • +48V PHANTOM POWER: For a reliable power source, the portable audio mixer USB has a +48V phantom power and comes w/ a wall power adapter. The mixer is great for professional DJ studio use, audio recording, on-stage performance, live gigs, karaoke
  • 6 CHANNEL: 6 channel mixer digital studio DJ mixing system has the ability to mix microphone audio and instrument like guitar/keyboard into one output signal. It features BUS audio control sound routing, MP3 digital audio file compatibility
  • INDEPENDENT AUDIO CONFIGURATION: Equipped w/ rotary knobs and LED indicator lights to easily adjust the gain, high, low, fx/send, pan tone of each channel. Also has an LCD digital display w/ ID3 tag readout that displays song title/artist
  • 6 INPUTS: Aside from bluetooth connectivity it also has a USB audio Interface for pc/flash drive reader connection, (4) XLR/14" combo audio LINE/mic inputs, 1/4" (6. 35mm) mono/stereo input. Works w/ smartphone, tablet, laptop, computer
  • Special Effects: Six user recordable, Ten Built-in special audio effects, and various adjustments available for your creation. Fixed audio effects like Danger, Laughter, Heart-beat... Note please record your own audio effects you like to audio interface according to the instructions.
  • Plug and Play:Works as a USB sound card plus mixing station. It delivers superb sound quality and offers intuitive and full control to optimize vocal and sound effects. If you want to venture into podcast, broadcast or live streaming, This soundboard set can help you start a professional or funny podcast, or complete your online show humorously, or change your voice in gaming. Great Digital GIFT for family, children, friends and those who love to live stream.
  • Portable DJ mixer:2000 mAh rechargeable battery has a power reserve of 10 hours. you can making your music anywhere. perfect for YouTuBe, Twitter, Twitch, Toktik, Amazon live, etc. You Will Get: 1*L5 audio interface(Without Microphone), 1* type C to USB cable, 1* type C to type C OTG cable, 1* 3.5mm audio cable, 1* user manual. 30 days money back one year warranty, any question clicks in "YOUR ORDER" options click the “contact seller".
  • Enjoy Your Concert: Built-in high-performance 32-bit DSP noise reduction audio chip, 4 times the processing speed of ordinary sound cards, 2 large knobs (Mic, Monitor), 12 step auto tune, 6 stepless modifiable tones (Treble, Mid-range, Bass, Reverb, BGM, Record), as well as BT accompaniment, it will bring you the perfect sound quality enjoyment for your live broadcast and recording.
  • Born For Live Streaming: The L5 are professional live broadcast .it supports up to 2 person, 5 devices and 5 platforms to stream simultaneously. Highlights of this set, 6 live streaming modes for you, Chat, Sing, MC, Auto tune, warcaft, lolita. 4 inputs, 48V XLR mic, 3.5mm mic, 3.5mm Accompaniment, Bluetooth. And real-time monitoring, It is compatible with IOS, Android, PC and PS4.
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What Are the Most Critical Aspects of small studio mixer That You Should Concentrate on?

You must know the small studio mixer to make a substantial purchase. There's a slew of additional issues which have to be looked at and assessed. Each commodity has its own set of difficulties. As a result, you can rely on us to give you comprehensive counsel and support.

You might quickly become overwhelmed in your quest for the small studio mixer because there are so many models and features. Avoid being suffocated by an expensive item that only serves to take up room in your cupboard by following our advice.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

After all, it's time for you to pick up your buddy based on the things above. Don't waste your time at any unreliable site. As mentioned above, our website includes not only interesting information but authoritative one, so that you should come to us as regularly as possible.

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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.