The 26 Best USB Mixers (for Podcasts and Home Studios)
An oft forgotten piece of equipment for audio recording, especially podcasts, is a quality audio mixer. For many podcasters without the luxury of studio equipment, this typically means an audio USB mixer to edit and record your podcast. A good USB mixer will help balance the sound levels, EQ, gain, and overall give you a better grasp of your audio output so you can continue creating a great podcast.
So while many new and experience podcasters focus their investment on a good podcast mic, a USB mixer can arguably be just as important in perfecting the sound on your podcast. You want your voice and your guests’ voices to sound level and blend seamlessly in the conversation. Your podcast listeners shouldn’t be messing with their volume knob throughout your podcast. This is where your audio mixer comes in.
Table of Contents
Podcast Recording Things To Consider
Podcast Format
What kind of podcast are you recording? Are you the only speaker or will you have a co-host? Several co-hosts at a time? Will you all be in the same room recording or remote? What kind of microphones are you using?
Do you typically record in the same room or studio for your episodes, or is your podcast typically recorded on the road? Mobile podcasts add another wrinkle onto recording with the equipment you ultimately decide to go with.
Podcast Recording Equipment and Accessories
What’s your podcast microphone setup like? Do you have one studio mic and the other budget quality? Are your microphones USB or XLR? Do you have any capability issues and is your life a dongle-filled mess?
Do you have studio podcast headphones? Do you have any sound latency problems?
Features of USB Mixers
Many USB mixers offer similar features and it’s important to know which ones matter the most for your podcast. It won’t do anyone any good to spend extra for features you’re not going to use.
I should note here, the audio mixers I’m reviewing are for XLR microphones. If you’re using a USB mic, look into recording software to add some digital mixing features. It’s not perfect, but it’s better than nothing.
You’ll want a dedicated XLR port for each audio input on your podcast. So if your podcast is typically you and another guest, you need at least two ports. I’d recommend always having an extra port because things change and in the chance you land that dream guest or two, you want to make sure your equipment can handle it.
Related reading: essential podcast equipment, 25 of the best podcast headphones & 12 of the best podcast hosting services, How to Start a Podcast
The Best USB Mixers for Podcasts
1. Behringer 12 Mixer-Powered, Black
$
With a low-noise operating system and tons of headroom to work with, the Behringer 12 is the perfect USB mixer for at-home recording artists and podcasters. Don’t let the low price fool you, as this bad boy comes with four state-of-the-art XENYX mic preamps, similar to high-grade preamps you’d find in professional studios. Each input comes complete with classic British-style EQs for a more musical sound, as well as a few effects for added processing.
Pros
- High-fidelity preamps
- Studio-grade EQs and compressors
- Easy to record straight to computer
Cons
- Unit can get very hot
- No instrument-level inputs
2. Behringer Xenyx Q502USB
$
If you’re looking for a compact, on-the-go USB Mixer, look no further than the Behringer Xenyx Q502USB. This analog mixer comes with five inputs, a high-grade Xenyx Mic Preamp, Classic British-style EQ, and a one-knob compressor for easy use. It has the perfect amount of clarity and musicality for anything from smaller, 1-2 man gigs or at-home recording.
Pros
- Great value for the money
- Versatile, yet versatile setup
- High-quality preamps
Cons
- Only records at 16-bit, 44.1kHz
- No power button
3. Behringer Q1202USB 12-Channel
$$
The Q1202USB 12-Channel is perfect for mid-sized setups, yet still compact enough to take with you on the go! It comes complete with four studio-grade Xenyx preamps, classic British-style EQs on each channel, and one-knob compressors for simple, dynamic control. It’s an excellent choice for someone who is looking to both record and perform live with more than a few simultaneous, incoming signals.
Pros
- Studio-quality microphone preamps
- Easy-to-use EQ and compression
- Simple computer connection for recording
Cons
- LED meters are short and not great for reference
- AC adapter has been known to create low hum
4. Mackie PROFX8V2 8-Channel
$$$
The Mackie PROFXV2 8-Channel is a solid, portable mixer for those looking to venture into live sound! It comes packed with high-quality Mackie Vita Preamps, a powerful effects engine, a unique graphic EQ, and USB recording/playback. There are two mic inputs and four line inputs, making it excellent for smaller live setups.
Pros
- High-grade, class-A preamps
- Strong effects engine
- Easily record you live performance with included tracktion software
Cons
- Noticeable noise at lower levels
- Gain is not the strongest
5. Yamaha MG10XU 10-Input
$$
Yamaha has always been a reliable brand when it comes to music hardware, and their MG10XU is the perfect beginner USB mixer for home recordists. Onboard, you’ll find Class-A D-PRE preamps that provide natural sound, 3-band EQs on all mono channels, 1-knob compressors, and a high-quality, SPX Digital multi-effects processor. We absolutely love the sleek, contoured design as well, keeping things cool when recording for long periods of time.
Pros
- Durable and sleek design
- Warm, natural sounding preamps
- Strong digital effects engine
Cons
- Gain is pretty low
- Some complain of crackling sound when using headphones
6. Behringer Audio Interface 1-Channel UM2
$
For beginner home recordists, the Behringer 1-Channel UM2 offers solid recording for single microphones or instruments. This low-latency audio interface comes with studio-grade Xenyx preamps and a 48kHz resolution for high-fidelity recordings. Plus, it’s portable enough to take with you on the go thanks to the bus-powered design.
Pros
- Small footprint for solid portability
- Dual monitor output
- Solid XLR/TRS combo jacks
Cons
- Only one phantom power switch for all channels
- No internal effects to use during low latency monitoring
7. Behringer Xenyx 1204USB 12-Input
$$
The Behringer Xenyx 1204USB mixer is fantastic for those looking to get premium sound in a compact module. Onboard you’ll find four high-quality Xenyx preamps, musical-sounding British EQs, and one-knob compressors, each working in conjunction to give you punch and warmth. From live gigs to USB recording, it’s an incredibly versatile unit for small to mid-sized groups.
Pros
- High-quality xenyx preamps
- Easy-to-use EQ and compression
- Simple recording connection
Cons
- No built-in effects processing
- Some people have problems with the loose power cable
8. Behringer Xenyx X1222USB 16-Input
$$$
If you’re looking for something a little bigger to record your music or podcasts at home, as well as do live sound, the Behringer Xenyx X1222USB is the perfect compromise between compact and versatile. You get four Xenyx Mic preamps and four stereo inputs, two of which also accept XLR. You’ll love the mono channel British-style EQs and one-knob compressor for easy processing, as well as the dual-engine multi-effect processor for everything from reverb, to delay to pitch-shift and beyond!
Pros
- High-quality Xenyx preamps
- Tons of awesome onboard FX
- Professional feedback elimination process
Cons
- Headphone output is a bit noisy
- Low bit rate USB output
9. Pyle Professional 4-Channel USB Mixer
$
The Pyle Professional 4-Channel Mixer is the perfect choice for beginner or on-the-go recordists. Easily connect to your computer via USB or Bluetooth and take advantage of the XLR/TRS combo inputs and 3-band EQ for added processing. The rugged design makes it great for bringing on the go to lay down spur-of-the-moment ideas!
Pros
- Cordless Bluetooth connection
- Rugged and portable design
- 16-setting reverb FX option
Cons
- No mute button for mics
- Bluetooth doesn’t provide best audio quality
10. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2nd Gen
$$
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is probably one of the best beginner audio interfaces on the market thanks to the high-grade preamps and 24-bit/192kHz conversion and sample rates. The 2-in, 2-out USB design makes it incredibly portable, perfect for plugging in your guitar or microphone and getting started right away.
Pros
- Two High-quality Scarlett preamps with tons of gain
- Leading conversion and sample rates
- Pro Tools First included
Cons
- Some experience USB port failure after a while
- Headphone volume is very quiet
11. Numark M6 4-Channel USB Mixer
$$
The Numark M6 4-Channel USB Mixer is a no-frills mixer for someone who just needs to simply lay down some audio with all of the effects and processing. You get four input channels with tons of gain and a three-band EQ for easy tweaking. The faders make adjusting the volume incredibly easy, and the unit is built like an absolute tank for security while traveling. Overall, this is a great unit for DJs who need a simple setup for live!
Pros
- Simple and durable design
- Tons of gain in each output
- Versatile Arsenal of Audio Input Types
Cons
- Talk-over feature can be buggy
- Large unit for what it contains
12. Behringer Xenyx 502
$
The Behringer Xenyx 502 is excellent for that small gig at your local coffee shop or small speech in your college lecture hall. At an incredibly compact size, the Xenyx 502 gives you only what you need to get a professional sound. On the interface, you have 5 inputs in total (one mic and two stereo), as well as an easy-to-use British EQ.
Pros
- Lightweight 1.2 lb design
- High-quality Xenyx preamps
- Easy-to-use interface
Cons
- No 48-volt phantom power
- Gets warm when in use for a while
13. Phenyx Pro 4-Channel
$
The Phenyx Pro 4-Channel is another simple mixer that is perfect for recording your music in your room or playing gigs at your local coffee shop. It comes with both balanced line and XLR inputs, a natural 3-band EQ, a send section for built-in effects, and +48v phantom power! All of this and you can easily connect it to your computer via USB.
Pros
- Portable design
- Included +48v phantom power
- Easy-to-use interface
Cons
- Effects section is very limited
- Some say headphone jack has a hissing noise
14. Audio2000’s AMX7342 Six-Channel
$
If you’re looking for something mid-range with all the essentials, the AMX7342 is perfect! With six channel comprised of both line and mic inputs, a number of send effects included 3-band EQs on each of the channels, and extremely high-accuracy level indicators on the interface, you get both quality sound and quality control. All of that and you can easily connect to your computer to record high-fidelity audio thanks to the +48v phantom power.
Pros
- High-accuracy level indicators
- Included +48v phantom power
- Unique graphic equalizer
Cons
- Not very user-friendly
- No onboard compressor for price
15. Ammoon 2-Channel Mini Mixing Console
$
The Annmoon 2-Channel takes miniature recording to the next level. If you’re looking to get into from-home broadcasting or just set up for a little karaoke, it’s the perfect option. It comes with one mic input and one stereo TRS inputs, both of which can be controlled with the easy-to-use knob interface. Even with only 5v of power, you still get switchable +48v phantom power for condenser use.
Pros
- Insanely portable design
- 5v low voltage power
- Included +48v Phantom Power
Cons
- Does not actually record with USB
- Channel sliders feel a bit cheap
16. Behringer Xenyx X1204 12-Input
$$
The Behringer Xenyx X1204 is the last at the threshold of compact mixers before getting into the pro game. You get four onboard Xenyx Preamps with studio-quality sound, some high-quality British EQs on each channel, one-knob, easy-to-use compressors for punch, and a powerful multi-FX processor with a whopping 16 different presets from reverb to delay to flanger and beyond. From live gigs to home recordings, it’s a solid choice!
Pros
- High-quality xenyx preamps
- Powerful multi-FX processor
- Included recording software
Cons
- Threshold for distortion is quick
- Metering isn’t the most accurate
17. Alesis MultiMix 4-Channel
$
The Alesis MultiMix 4-Channel is perfect for plopping down on your desktop and getting straight to recording! Thanks to its compact design and accurate, real-time metering, you can record both instruments and microphones with ease. There are also a number of built-in effects for dialing in character to your sound without fuss! This all comes to you from a reliable company that has been in the hardware game for many years.
Pros
- Portable size
- Built-in Fx processor
- Accurate metering
Cons
- Some complain of hiss
- Phantom power can be a little noisy
18. Behringer Xenyx 302USB Premium
$
The Behringer Xenyx 302USB Premium is an excellent bedroom mixer or travel interface for laying ideas down on the go. You get a dedicated 2-track input with phantom-powered Xenyx preamps, a musical British EQ, and some free software to get you ready to record right out of the box!
Pros
- Portable size
- Powerful preamps
- Comes with free recording software
Cons
- No control for USB recording level
- Cannot solo tracks
19. Behringer Xenyx 1002B Premium
$
The Behringer Xenyx 1002B is both portable and powerful with two high-quality Xenyx mic preamps, British-style 3-band EQs, and a 4/3 ratio of balanced stereo inputs and mic inputs. Even with the small size, you still get an FX send for adding a bit of character to your sound. All of this can be powered with a 9v battery for those who are feeling inspired on the go.
Pros
- Powerful Xenyx preamps
- Can be powered by 9v
- Low noise recording
Cons
- XLR jacks can be finicky
- Unit can get warm fast
20. Yamaha AG-03 3-Channel
$$
The Yamaha AG-03 3-Channel is excellent for podcasting and simple home recording. Thanks to the compact design, it can either be operated via USB or mobile battery. It surprisingly provides 192 kHz/24-bit sound for high-fidelity recordings, as well as a 1-touch DSP for both EQ and compression at the press of a button. For those who are looking to record to Apple devices, you can also connect to 2nd generation iPads or later.
Pros
- Easy iPad connection
- 1-Touch DSP for pro sound
- Comes with Cubase
Cons
- Audio output is a bit low
- Knobs feel a little cheap
21. Behringer Xenyx X2222USB 22-Input
$$$
Moving into the realm of pro audio, the Behringer Xenyx X2222 provides eight studio-grade, phantom-powered Xenyx Preamps, eight one-knob compressors, and British-style EQs, and a solid FX processor with 16 different presets that can be manipulated to your liking! You even get a tap function onboard for easy parameter storage! For recording larger groups in the studio or dialing in high-quality live sound, the Behringer Xenyx X2222 is a great piece of hardware!
Pros
- High-quality multi-FX processor
- Easy-to-use compressors and EQs
- Professional preamps
Cons
- Heats up pretty fast
- Not the most user-friendly
22. LyxPro MRB3 3-Channel
$
For those recordists on a budget, the LyxPro MRB3 3-Channel provides high-quality sound and Bluetooth convenience for easy recording. With easy-to-use controls and a wildly portable size, you can take this thing with you just about anywhere for laying down ideas on the go!
- High-quality construction
- Bluetooth connection
- Portable size
Cons
- No instrument cable connection
- A bit of added noise
23. Steinberg UR22C 2×2 USB 3.0 Audio Interface
Steinberg took make of the features of their larger, professional quality interfaces and condensed them down into this compact package. While it only has two XLR inputs, the USB functionality make it a great option for solo podcasters or pairs looking for an easy recording set-up. All of Steinberg’s interfaces in the UR line (which includes models with up to 6 inputs) feature the same high-quality D-PRE mic preamps from Yamaha.
Pros:
- USB makes it easy to record to a computer or laptop
- Great build quality
Cons:
- May be more complicated than needed for a beginner interface
- Some users report issues with Windows 10
24. QSC TouchMix 8 Digital Mixer
The QSC TouchMix is one of the few options on the market working to take mixers into the next era, offering a touchscreen interface instead of the traditional switches and knobs, and leading to a workflow that some will find smoother and more versatile. The digital screen allows for a more compact build, while still offering four XLR inputs and four XLR outputs. While many of the capabilities would not be utilized by a podcaster, the small size packs a lot of punch and the TouchMix 8 is incredibly feature rich.
Pros:
- Small, compact size given all of the capabilities
- Touchscreen allows for “fast” mixing
Cons:
- Expensive
- Probably more than you would need to use for a podcast
25. Mackie Audio Interface, Onyx Producer 2X2 USB Audio Interface
Mackie’s Onyx interfaces feature great sound quality in ultra small packages, competitive with some devices priced two or three times as high. This model features two preamps with phantom power for use with condenser microphones, packaged within a sturdy, compact build. While it is a great option for podcasting, music producers will also appreciate the built-in MIDI I/O for controllers, synths, and more.
Pros:
- Premium quality preamps
- Easy interface and controls
Cons:
- Some users report software issues with Windows
26. Zoom H6 6-Track Portable Recorder
Zoom recorders are popular with journalists and filmmakers recording in the field, and the H6 has become one of the most popular options with its six-track continuous recording and four XLR inputs. While it is commonly used to record documentary or podcast interviews on-location, this device works great in a home studio as well, especially if you may be packing up your recording kit and bringing it to an interview subjects home or to a different recording space.
While you can use the H6 as a mixer and run a line out, it also accepts an SD card for direct recording. Furthermore, the recorder comes with two interchangeable input capsules and can be used as a recorder on its own. These two features allow it to be used as a handheld microphone with internal recording, which can be helpful in the field, or for “blog” style audio recording.
Pros:
- Compact and portable
- Internal recording
Cons:
- Less control and functionality than dedicated audio mixers
- Condensed size means that some controls are harder to use
Discover Pods may receive a commission for items purchased, however, neither the reviews nor the rankings have been influenced.
Previous Story
The 7 best podcasts for developing your personal brand
Next Story
The varied value of branded podcasts
){kind=link}
1 comment
Pingback 30 of the Best Podcast Headphones | Discover the Best Podcasts | Discover Pods
Comments are closed.