Finding the best mixers music suitable for your needs isnt easy. With hundreds of choices can distract you. Knowing whats bad and whats good can be something of a minefield. In this article, weve done the hard work for you.
Reviews
1. Alto Professional ZMX52 | 5-Channel 2-Bus Mixer with 6 Inputs, 3-Band EQ per Channel & +18V Phantom Power
Feature
Compact mixer for live sound, mobile A/V, DJ and home studio use(6) total inputs including an XLR jack with phantom power and EQ on Channel 1
RCA inputs & outputs for connectors for seamless integration of A/V gear
1/4-Inch input for channels 2-5; use mono or stereo with dedicated balance control for stereo groupings
Ultra-low noise discrete mic pre with +18V Phantom power; compatible with condenser and dynamic mics
Switchable Aux input (to headphones or main mix)
Precision 4-segment LED metering for visual confirmation of signal clipping and overall level
Description
Alto Professional's ZEPHYR ZMX52 is a 5-channel mixer with all the essential inputs, outputs, and EQ for solo gigs and multimedia studios.
It features one mono channel with a microphone input (Phantom Power included), balanced TRS input, and a two-band EQ.
ZMX52 also delivers two stereo channels with two balanced TRS inputs each, and you have a dedicated stereo output to send to a recorder in addition to the main stereo outputs.
Choose the ZMX52 as the audio central command for your live performances, home studio, or video suite.
Technical Specifications
FREQUENCY RESPONSE
- All inputs: 20 Hz 22,000 Hz (1 dB)
THD+N
- All inputs: < 0.005% (@ 4 dBu, 1,000 Hz)
GAIN RANGE
- Mic inputs (Channel 1): 0 44 dB
- Line input (Channel 1): 12 30 dBu
- Line inputs (Channels 2-5): 0 dBu
MAX VOLTAGE GAIN
- 74 dB (MIC INPUT to MAIN MIX OUTPUT and AUX OUTPUT)
- 80 dB (MIC INPUT to PHONES OUTPUT)
- 30 dB (LINE INPUT to MAIN MIX OUTPUT)
SNR: All inputs: > 110 dBu
IMPEDANCE
- Mic inputs: 3.9 k
- All other inputs: > 10 k
- Aux output : 1 k
- All other outputs: 120
EQUALIZATION
- High: 15 dB @ 12,000 Hz
- Low: 15 dB @ 80 Hz
CROSSTALK
- Adjacent inputs: < -80 dB @ 1,000 Hz
- Inputs to outputs: < -75 dB @ 1,000 Hz (stereo L/R, Channel 1, panned hard left or right)
MAIN MIX
- AUX OUTPUT, PHONES OUTPUT: 0 dBu, unbalanced, 1/4 jacks
- Max output: +22 dBu, unbalanced, 1/4 jacks
- Bus noise: < -90 dB @ 20 Hz ~ 22,000 Hz (Channel and Main Mix levels at 0 dB, others at minimum)
- POWER SUPPLY: 18 V, 500mA
POWER CONSUMPTION: 9 W
DIMENSIONS (width x depth x height): 5.1 x 8 x 1.5
WEIGHT: 1.65 lbs
Box Contents
- ZEPHYR mixer
- Power adapter
- Quickstart Guide
- Safety Instructions & Warranty Information booklet
2. BEHRINGER XENYX X1222USB
Feature
Premium ultra-low noise, high headroom analog mixerDescription
BEHRINGER XENYX X1222USB
Premium 16-Input 2/2-Bus Mixer with XENYX Mic Preamps Compressors, British EQs, 24-Bit Multi-FX Processor and USB/Audio Interface
- Premium ultra-low noise, high headroom analog mixer
- 4 state-of-the-art, phantom-powered XENYX Mic Preamps comparable to stand-alone boutique preamps
- 4 studio-grade compressors with super-easy "one-knob" functionality and control LED for professional vocal and instrumental sound
- Neo-classic "British" 3-band EQs for warm and musical sound
- 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
- Built-in stereo USB/Audio Interface to connect directly to your computer. Free audio recording, editing and podcasting software plus 150 instrument/effect plug-ins and ultra-low latency driver downloadable at www.behringer.com
- 7-band stereo graphic EQ allows precise frequency correction of monitor or main mixes
- Revolutionary FBQ Feedback Detection System instantly reveals critical frequencies
- Breathtaking XPQ 3D stereo surround effect for more vitality and enhanced stereo image
- Voice Canceller function for easy-to-use sing-along applications
- 4 fully equipped stereo input channels featuring 2 additional mic inputs on channels 5/6 and 7/8, 3-band EQ and input trim control
- Channel inserts on each mono channel for flexible connection of outboard equipment
- 2 aux sends per channel: 1 pre fader for monitoring, 1 post fader (for internal FX and/or as external send); 2 multi-functional stereo aux returns
- Balanced main mix outputs with gold-plated XLR connectors, headphone/control room output and stereo rec outputs
- Long-wearing 60-mm logarithmic-taper faders and sealed rotary controls
- "Planet Earth" switching power supply for maximum flexibility (100 - 240 V~), noise-free audio, superior transient response plus low power consumption for energy saving
- Rack mount brackets included for ultimate flexibility
- High-quality components and exceptionally rugged construction ensure long life
- Conceived and designed by BEHRINGER Germany
The X1222USB is a step up from the X1204USB with six mono mic inputs. These two additional channels can also be used for stereo line-level devices, such as keyboards or sound modules. The X1222USB also comes equipped with channel Inserts for inputs 1-4, a stereo 7-band graphic EQ, which can be assigned to the main or monitor buses, and our proprietary FBQ Feedback Detection System. Other features include full-sized faders for MON and FX SENDs, our XPQ 3D stereo surround effect (creates a broader, enhanced stereo image), and a handy Voice Canceller function for removing vocals from pre-recorded tapes and CDs for "instant-karaoke" applications.
XENYX USB Series mixers are designed to handle your live gigs, and they provide the state-of-the-art tools you need to make stunning, professional-quality recordings. Along with their built-in USB/audio interfaces, XENYX USB mixers come with all the recording and editing software you'll need to turn your computer system into a complete, high-performance home recording studio.
Sonically Superior Mic Preamps
All XENYX mixers have one thing in common - great-sounding, high headroom XENYX mic preamps. These state-of-the-art mic pres represent a major step in the evolution of audio technology - and they can easily hold their own, even when compared to the most expensive stand-alone mic preamps. XENYX preamps offer a staggering 130 dB of dynamic range, with a bandwidth that extends from below 10 Hz to well above 200 kHz. Armed with these outstanding mic preamps, XENYX mixers provide such transparent, crystal-clear performance you just might think someone upgraded your mics while you weren't looking.
Sublimely Musical British EQ
The British consoles of the 1960s and '70s changed the sound of rock and roll - without them the British Invasion might not have happened. Those legendary mixing desks soon became the envy of engineers and producers all over the world. The channel EQ on our XENYX mixers is based on that very same circuitry, allowing you to imbue signals with incredible warmth and detailed musical character. Even when applied generously, these equalizers exhibit sweet forgiveness and superb audio quality.
One-Knob Compression
Ask professional sound engineers what their favorite piece of external processing gear is and the majority response will be virtually unanimous - dynamic compression. What is compression? We're glad you asked. Compression essentially limits the dynamic range of a signal, lowering the level of loud sounds and turning up softer sounds, to achieve sonic balance. But applying compression is a delicate art that many novice, and even intermediate, sound techs have great difficulty mastering. Our "one-knob" compression is available on all mono channels and is easy to operate, even for entry-level users. With this one knob, you can easily dial in the perfect amount of compression for instruments and vocals, creating powerful mixes with punch and clarity. This is indeed a rare feature for products in this class - but standard on all XENYX USB mixers.
Effective FX
All XENYX USB Series mixers (except the 1204USB) feature our new 24-bit dual engine FX processor, with 16 editable, studio-grade presets including reverb, chorus, flanger, delay, pitch shifter and multi-effects. Complete with a highly accurate input meter, these effects can be altered to your personal taste via the Parameter control. Time-based functions can be entered manually by pressing the Tap button in tempo with the music.
Recording Bliss
There was a time when the recording process called for lots and lots of expensive gear, which meant the average musician had to buy time at a recording studio - and that time was pricey indeed. But modern technology has put personal recording well within the reach of virtually anyone with access to a computer. How do you get all that music flying around your brain into your computer? That's where XENYX USB mixers come in. Thanks to the built-in, bi-directional stereo USB audio interface, you can connect any of these mixers directly to your PC or Mac computer via a single USB cable. Now any signal source you connect to the mixer can be recorded directly to your hard drive. Which brings us to software...
Free Would Be Nice!
Because you'll want to take full advantage of the XENYX USB Series mixers' recording and podcasting potential, we've thrown in a massive software package that includes Audacity (the most popular open source audio editor), Podifier, Juice, Podnova and Golden Ear (a great selection of podcasting software). You're ready to go live on your PC or Mac computer right out of the box! You also get more than 100 virtual instruments and 50 FX plug-ins, turning your computer into a complete home-based or mobile recording studio from input to output.
Value
No matter what your audio mixing needs are, BEHRINGER USB Series mixers provide the performance and features that can take your talent to the next level, at a price that is sure to amaze you. Try one on today - we have one available in your size!
3. Behringer Xenyx 1202 Premium 12-Input 2-Bus Mixer with XENYX Mic Preamps and British Eqs
Feature
Premium ultra-low noise, high headroom analog mixerDescription
If you need a capable mixer at a low price, check out the Behringer Xenyx 1202 mixer. You get four channels of Xenyx mic preamps, plus another four stereo channels for line-level inputs. You also get one aux send per channel, making it easy to set up a monitor mix with effects. Each channel on the Xenyx 1202 features a 3-band EQ to fine-tune your sound. You also get CD/Tape inputs for easy recording and playback. If you want a mixer that's suited equally for stage or studio, check out the Behringer Xenyx 1202.4. Mackie PROFX12V2 12-Channel Compact Mixer with USB and Effects
Feature
Be sure that the volume of the input is the same as it would be during normal use, or you may have to readjust the gain in the middle of a set. You can listen with headphones if you carefully turn up the channel fader and headphones level a little.6 low-noise Mackie Vita mic preamps add life to any input. ReadyFX effects engine with 16 effects including reverbs, delays, and choruses
7-band graphic EQ for tuning mains or monitors
Aux output for monitor mixes, venue 70-volt systems, and more
3-band EQ and 100Hz low-cut filter on all channels
Description
The Mackie ProFX12v2 12-channel USB mixer means you can stop sacrificing sound quality for portability at your smaller band and solo acoustic gigs. You get six of Mackie's Vita preamps for your mic, guitar, keyboard, or anything else you need for your show. After you've plugged in, tap into the powerful ReadyFX effects engine to add excitement to your mix. Show your audience you care by giving them the best sound you can with the Mackie ProFX12v2 USB mixer. Like the name says, the ProFX12v2 is a professional mixer, with convenient features and sound that rival some larger format mixers. Mackie designed the Vita preamps with live sound in mind to provide the quality of sound that is lacking in some compact mixers. Each channel features its own individual 3-band EQ and 100Hz low-cut filter for shaping the sound of your inputs. The ReadyFX digital effects engine gives you access to 16 different effects including reverbs and delays - Mackie even added chorus effects for your guitar. A 7-band graphic EQ can be assigned either to your main outputs so you can fine tune the PA, or to the aux output to easily get rid of feedback in your monitors. If you perform with backing tracks, there are inputs (including USB) for your laptop or MP3 player, a headphone output with individual level control, and even phantom power for your condenser mics. With the added convenience of a hi-Z input for direct instrument input, you have no reason NOT to own a ProFX12v2. The ProFX12v2 is exactly what you need for mixing when the gig calls for minimal inputs, but that's not where its usefulness ends. Since you'll be mixing from the stage, keep the ProFX12v2 right next to you, and you can use the headphone output with a set of in-ear monitors for your performance and just leave your floor monitors at home. Drummers can use it for monitoring, too - take the aux mix from the front of house board that would have gone to your wedges and plug it in to a channel on the ProFX12v2.5. ammoon CT80S-USB 8 Channel Digtal Mic Line Audio Mixing Mixer Console with 48V Phantom Power for Recording DJ Stage Karaoke Music Appreciation
Feature
8 channels with XLR and Line inputs.48V phantom power.
With USB MP3 input interface and LCD.
Headset monitoring, recording, and stereo equipments output jacks.
Each channel has Aux, Effect, Gain, Channel fader knobs and Peak indicator.
Description
Specifications:Color: Black
Material: Metal
Power adapter: US Input: 100-240V AC 50/60Hz 0.23A
Output: 15V DC
48V DC
Item size: Approx. 40 * 34 * 4cm / 15.7 * 13.4 * 1.6in
Item weight: 3.7kg / 8.2Lb
Package size: 45 * 42 * 10cm / 17.7 * 16.5 * 3.9in
Package weight: 4.2kg / 9.3Lb
Package List:
1 * Mixer Console
1 * Power Adapter (US)
1 * User Manual (English)
6. BEHRINGER XENYX 1202FX
Feature
Premium ultra-low noise, high headroom analog mixerDescription
BEHRINGER XENYX 1202FX7. Behringer Xenyx 502 Premium 5-Input 2-Bus Mixer with XENYX Mic Preamp and British EQ
Feature
Premium ultra-low noise, high headroom analog mixerDescription
BEHRINGER 5 IN MIXING BOARD W EQ8. Behringer Xenyx 802 Premium 8-Input 2-Bus Mixer with Xenyx Mic Preamps and British EQs
Feature
Premium ultra-low noise, high headroom analog mixerDescription
Behringer Xenyx 802 Premium 8-Input 2-Bus Mixer with Xenyx Mic Preamps and British EQs9. Pyle PMX7BU Bluetooth 3-Channel DJ MP3 Mixer, Mic-Talkover, USB Flash Reader, Dual RCA & Microphone Inputs, Headphone Jack
Feature
Built-in Bluetooth for Wireless Music Streaming, Works with All of Your Favorite DevicesWorks with iPhone, Android, Smartphones, iPad, Tablet, PC, etc. - Dual 1/4'' Mic Inputs
Phono RCA Audio Line Inputs for Connecting External Devices, 1/4'' Headphone Jack
1/4" Balanced TRS Microphone Input Jacks, Amp Master Output (L/R), Mix & Control
Level Gain and Mic Talk Over Controls, USB Flash Drive Reader, ULN Frequency Design
Aux Inputs Switchable Between Line Level and Phono Input, (2) Phono RCA Audio Line Inputs
(2) 1/4'' Balanced TRS Microphone Inputs, Independent Channel Controls and Cross Fader
Connect USB Removable Storage to Mix Digital Music Files (MP3s), Size: 5.31" x 9.25" x 2.36"
Description
The Pyle PMX7BU Bluetooth Compact DJ Mixer will help ensure that your performances sound great every time. Youll be able to professionally mix your entire Digital MP3 library with your turntables or other connected devices. Bluetooth technology will allow you to instantly add wireless streaming music to your DJ session. (Works with iPhone, Android, Smartphone, iPad, Tablet, PC, etc.) Wirelessly stream music like Pandora or Spotify from your Bluetooth device directly into your mix. Your microphones will sound crystal clear with talk over control and separate gain control. Enjoy a value-packed mixing solution with the Pyle PMX7BU Bluetooth Compact DJ Mixer.10. MAGIX Music Maker – 2018 Premium Edition – The audio software with more sounds, instruments and creative options
Feature
Music Maker Premium Edition: Even more sounds Even more instruments. All the features.Simply create music with loops and the easy modular design system.
Custom audio software: Select Soundpools, instruments and features from the Store
Produce music forever: Access a lifetime of free updates!
Recording: Instruments, vocals and rap recordings