Last Updated on February 4, 2024 by Muisc Pro Editorial Team
A good mixer can be the difference between a great stream and a mediocre one. If you’re just starting out with streaming, or if you’re looking to upgrade your current setup, then this is the right place for you. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best mixers on the market today so that you can quickly get started off on the right foot.
What is a sound mixer?
A sound mixer is a piece of machinery that allows you to control the volume levels and inputs of multiple audio sources at once. It’s an essential tool for anyone who needs to record sounds or music, as well as for people who have more than one microphone hooked up to their computer. Choosing from among the many types of mixers can be confusing, especially if you’re a beginner. This article will help you understand the basics behind choosing and using a sound mixer.
If you want to invest in professional equipment, there are two main types to choose from: analog and digital mixers. Analog mixers use cables with XLR connectors—these cables are common in film production because they provide higher quality audio than standard RCA connections do. Digital mixers store all of their settings as software programs on computer chips; this makes them much easier for beginners because they don’t require any additional peripherals like microphones or XLR-to-RCA adapters (which would convert an analog signal into digital).
1. Mackie ProFX6v3 6-channel Mixer with USB and Effects and 2 Onyx Mic Preamps
The Mackie ProFX6v3 is a six-channel mixer with two mic/line inputs, two stereo line inputs and a stereo return. It also includes a USB audio interface for recording and playback. This mixer also has 2 Onyx mic preamps that are built to deliver the highest quality sound possible when you’re recording or streaming. The four studio-quality effects with dedicated footswitches include: 3-band EQs on all channels (with sweepable mids), compressor and limiter on channels 1&2; delay, flanger, chorus and reverb effects on channel 3&4
2. Mackie ProFX8v2 8-channel Mixer with USB and Effects, plus 32 Built-in Effects
The Mackie ProFX8v2 is an 8-channel mixer. It also has a built-in audio interface with 32 built-in effects and USB connectivity to send your output directly to your computer. The mixer’s two Onyx mic preamps feature linear frequency response and 65dB of gain, which lets you record vocals or instruments at a high volume without clipping or distortion.
The Mackie ProFX8v2 also comes with XLR inputs for eight channels of external microphone or instrument signals. You can use these inputs to connect microphones, guitars, keyboard synthesizers and more. Each channel has its own trim control on the front panel so you can adjust the volume level before moving on to other parameters like EQ settings or reverb effects later on in postproduction editing sessions after recording takes place at locations around town!
3. StudioLive AR8c Mixer and Audio Interface with Effects, Bluetooth, and Fat Channel Digital Processing
The StudioLive AR8c is a mixer and audio interface with effects, Bluetooth, and Fat Channel Digital Processing. Mix with your fingers or use the dedicated knobs and faders. The Fat Channel provides up to 24 channels of professional digital processing including EQ, dynamics, reverb, delay, chorus and more. With built-in effects you don’t have to worry about latency when switching between sources including an onboard 16×16 USB interface that supports PC/Mac recording and playback at 24-bit resolution at sample rates up to 96kHz. The StudioLive AR8c is designed for live mixing: its rugged construction stands up to the demands of real-world use without missing a beat.
The included UC Surface software lets you customize how any input or output works with a simple drag-and-drop approach that anyone can learn in minutes. You can easily rename channels for personal preference or indicate what kind of signal is being sent (iPad audio source? Guitar amp input?). You can also choose from hundreds of presets for every type of application from DJing through broadcasting live events—all without leaving the software environment!
4. PreSonus StudioLive AR12c 14-Channel USB-C Hybrid Digital/Analog Rack Mount Mixer
The StudioLive AR12c 14-Channel USB-C Hybrid Digital/Analog Rack Mount Mixer is a rack mountable mixer with 12 channels that has been designed to deliver professional sound quality. The mixer offers 4 subgroups for flexible routing of signals, 8 mono channels with 3-band EQ and aux sends, 6 stereo channels with 3-band EQ and aux sends. It also features 2 mic/line channels with high-headroom, low-noise mic preamps.
5. Zoom LiveTrak L-8 8-channel Digital Mixer, Sampler, and USB Audio Interface
The Zoom LiveTrak L-8 8-channel Digital Mixer, Sampler, and USB Audio Interface is a great option for those who want a mixer with a wide range of features.
It features 8 channels with 2 stereo inputs and 2 stereo outputs. It also has 8 mono inputs and 2 mono outputs. You can connect your guitar or microphone to one of the many inputs on this mixer. There is also an output for plugging into a PA system if you need to play live at some point in your career as a streamer/musician/podcaster/etc…
In addition to having all these input options, the Zoom LiveTrak L-8 8-channel Digital Mixer includes built in effects such as reverb, chorus, flange and delay that allow you to add different sounds to each individual audio track during recording or live streaming sessions. The unit comes with 80 different effects so there should be something interesting for everyone!
6. Zoom LiveTrak L-12 Digital Mixer and USB Audio Interface
The Zoom LiveTrak L-12 Digital Mixer is a 12-channel mixer with a sampler and USB audio interface. It has two mic preamps, two stereo channels, eight line inputs, two line outputs and two instrument inputs. The Zoom Livetrak L-12 Digital Mixer also has 2 headphone outputs that are compatible with both iPhone and Android devices as well as AUX outs for connecting other devices.
7. TC-Helicon GO XLR Broadcast Production Studio Mixer With Phone Connector For Filmmaking Gaming Music & Podcasting
The TC-Helicon GO XLR Broadcast Production Studio Mixer With Phone Connector For Filmmaking Gaming Music & Podcasting is a professional audio mixer that can be used for all kinds of projects, including gaming and filmmaking. This rack mountable unit features four channels with XLR microphone inputs, a USB audio interface, Bluetooth connectivity and even includes the Fat Channel digital processing system which allows you to make use of effects presets.
The TC-Helicon GO XLR Broadcast Production Studio Mixer With Phone Connector For Filmmaking Gaming Music & Podcasting is perfect for those who need an easy solution for mixing multiple sources such as music or podcast recordings as well as voiceover tracks or movie dialogue into one cohesive mixdown thanks to its built-in reverb effects presets while still providing plenty of options if you want more control over your final product by offering individual level meters per channel so you can monitor levels at all times without having to adjust anything manually after recording something new onto each track during filming sessions
8. YAMAHA MG10XU 10-Input Stereo Mixer with Effects
The Yamaha MG10XU 10-input stereo mixer is a great option for streamers who are looking for something with a lot of inputs and effects. It has two stereo channels, two stereo returns, one microphone input with phantom power, one channel insert, one aux send and return on each channel. The Yamaha MG10XUs interface is easy to use and looks great as well. In this review I’ll go over some of its pros and cons so that you can decide if it’s right for your needs!
9. Rode Rodecaster Pro II Podcast Production Console – 8 XLR Inputs for Mics, 8 Programmable Pads. Includes LCD Screen, Headphone Amp and Cables
The RØDECaster Pro II is the perfect companion for any creator who wants to produce high quality audio content. With an intuitive interface and simple controls, the RØDECast Pro II puts professional recording tools right into your hands. Whether you’re producing podcasts, streaming live events or creating music videos, the RØDE Caster Pro II gives you everything you need to create amazing content. The Rode Rodecaster Pro II Podcast Production Console has 8 XLR inputs for mics, 8 programmable pads and an LCD screen. It also comes with a headphone amp and cables.
10. Alto Professional ZMX52 Compact 5 Channel Stereo Line Mixer W/ MIC Preamp And Phantom Power
The ZMX52 is a compact 5-channel mixer with two microphone inputs, two stereo inputs and 3-band EQ. It features XLR and 1/4″ outputs on the back panel. The built in DI allows you to connect your instrument directly into the mixer without needing an external preamp. The stereo effects loop lets you add reverb or any other effects that require it without taking up additional channels on your mixing board setup. A switchable tuner output is also included for those musicians who need to tune their instruments between songs during live performances or sound recording sessions at home studios where space may be limited when setting up equipment for recording music sessions together as bands or soloists alike!
How to choose an audio mixer?
When you’re looking for a sound mixer, it’s important to consider what type of mixer will best suit your needs. There are two general types of mixers: analog and digital. Analog mixers have knobs, sliders, and faders that allow you to manipulate the sound manually. Digital mixers use buttons and pads to adjust the sound in real time while recording or playing back audio.
Analog mixing is great if you want to add effects like reverb or echo on live performances; however, digital mixing is preferred when working with complex audio files such as music mixes because it allows for seamless transitions between songs and other changes in volume levels throughout the track. In addition, many professional musicians prefer analog over digital because it gives them more control over their instruments’ sounds during live performances; however both are useful depending on your preference as well as any special needs associated with your equipment setup like space limitations or budget constraints.”
Conclusion
Sound mixers are an important part of any home recording studio or professional sound studio. They are used to combine many audio signals into one, and they often have effects built in as well. There are many different types of mixers on the market, we hope we were able to help you in finding the best sound mixer for streaming. Check out the all in one recording studio bundle for a hassle free setup.