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Read our guide on audio mixers for streaming and get our top 8 recommendations.
An audio mixer can take the quality of your live stream to the next level. But how do you know which one to choose or if you even need one? Most audio mixers are built for audio professionals, such as musicians, live event producers and podcasters. As a live streamer, which features should you look for in an audio mixer?
This buying guide covers the features and attributes that streamers should consider when purchasing an audio mixer. It also lists our eight favorite audio mixers for live streaming.
An audio mixer is an extra accessory and not necessary to go live. To learn about required streaming equipment, read our guide to a basic live streaming setup.
An audio mixer takes multiple sources of audio and mixes, balances and combines them into one signal. If you regularly use more than one microphone, play music, or broadcast video gameplay on your streams, an audio mixer is a must for fine-tuning your sound. It lets you adjust the volumes of all your audio inputs, ensuring consistency.
With an audio mixer, you can manage multiple inputs at once. You can plug in your mic, mobile phone and laptop and control the sound and frequencies from each one. Here are some use cases for an audio mixer for streaming:
If you don’t have multiple audio inputs, you probably don’t need an audio mixer. You can get an audio interface instead. But if you do plan to host a stream or broadcast an event that requires more than two audio sources, an audio mixer will help you control your sound.
Audio mixers work seamlessly with streaming software. If you’re using it for your live videos, you shouldn’t need to download separate Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software to adjust your audio.
When you’re in the market for a new audio mixer, there are several factors to keep in mind. Audio mixers come with different channels and tuning functions, and you’ll need to ensure you choose one that meets your requirements. Here’s what you should look for when deciding on an audio mixer.
Audio mixers can be either analog or digital. Analog mixers are more affordable and easier to use than digital mixers because they have fewer buttons and dials. Those new to audio mixing appreciate the simplicity and efficiency of analog mixers. However, they lack the customization options of a digital audio mixer, and they tend to have fewer external device connections.
Digital mixers allow you to connect multiple devices and provide more options for tuning your audio. The digital audio transfer process also prevents white noise and buzzing that analog mixers tend not to block out. The downsides of digital audio mixers are that they’re much more expensive than analog mixers and the variety of customization options requires a bigger time investment.
The choice between analog or digital audio mixers comes down to your preference: convenience or customization. If you’re new to audio mixing, try analog first to learn the ropes.
On an audio mixer, a channel is a signal path; it’s what your audio travels on. You plug each of your sources into a channel, so the more channels you have, the more audio sources you can connect. Audio mixers with more channels cost more, so be certain of how many channels you need. For live streaming, three channels are usually adequate — but your specific channel needs will depend on your setup.
Controlling your sound is the reason you’re buying an audio mixer, so you want to be sure the tuning capabilities are in line with your goals. Look for audio mixers that let you control the channels, compression and equalization (EQ). EQ knobs are usually things like bass, treble, etc., and they help you make the sound that the audience hears the same as the sound that goes into the microphone. Having enough tuning options is essential, but don’t let yourself get carried away and get an audio mixer with 20+ EQ knobs.
One quick thing to note about EQ and audio mixers is the “British” style EQ circuits. You might see some audio mixers advertised with British EQ, which means they were designed to emulate EQ circuits that were popular in England in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s and gave British rock bands of these eras their signature sound.
You have to pair your audio mixer with the right type of microphone. If you use a USB mic that you normally plug directly into your computer, check that the mixer you purchase has a USB audio interface.
If you use an XLR mic for streaming, it needs phantom power to work. It’s called “phantom” power because it comes from the XLR cable rather than a power cord. Most XLR mics require 48V of phantom power, so make sure your audio mixer can supply at least that much.
Audio mixers come in a wide range of sizes, from tiny to massive. Check the dimensions of a mixer before purchasing and be sure it fits in your workspace along with your other equipment. You want the audio mixer to be well within reach so you can make adjustments during your live stream.
The cost will be a concern for most people purchasing an audio mixer. Prices vary considerably, with analog mixers tending to be less expensive than digital. Keep in mind that higher-quality audio mixers will cost more, and if you want extra functionalities, you’ll have to pay for them.
You can get a decent audio mixer for around $100. For higher-quality mixers with more capabilities, expect to pay closer to $300, or even up to $500 for the ultra high-end models.
Read later: Top 10 microphones for live streaming in 2023
The GoXLR audio mixer from TC-Helicon was created with streamers and gamers in mind. From the compact design and RGB lighting to the voice effects and instant mute button, the GoXLR’s features will make controlling audio on your live broadcast a breeze. It can replace your other audio equipment, such as an audio interface, as well, helping you consolidate into one device that takes up less desk space. A high-end mixer like this doesn’t come cheap, however.
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Enhance your audio setup with the Yamaha MG10XU, a ten-channel audio mixer equipped with a USB interface and integrated special effects. This mixer ensures studio-quality sound and is user-friendly, making it a preferred choice for streamers seeking professional audio. With 10 channels, it’s especially suitable for those utilizing multiple microphones.
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The Pyle PMXU83BT audio mixer works well for all types of settings, not just for streaming. The quality of the Pyle mixer is decent for the price, and it’s a good value for someone who wants to mix audio for podcasts, music, and live events as well as for streaming. With three-band EQ, XLR/TRS inputs, and a 16-setting special effects processor, it will get the job done easily. It does lack some features for gaming streamers, though, like compression.
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For streamers who host talk shows and interviews rather than gaming sessions, the RODECaster Pro might be best suited to your needs. It’s geared toward podcasters, with a USB audio interface, four XLR inputs, phantom power, Bluetooth in and out, and an eight-pad soundboard. It lets you save to an SD card and record phone calls — a feature not all audio mixers can boast.
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For streamers on the go who need to be able to set up quickly, the ultracompact Alto Professional ZMX52 audio mixer is the ideal choice. It might be small, but it has all the features a streamer could need, including two-band EQ and five channels. The fact that it’s one of the most affordable models on this list makes it worth trying out. If you do need more than five channels, there’s an eight-channel model that’s almost as compact but more expensive.
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The Behringer Xenyx 1204USB analog mixer offers plenty of features to meet more sophisticated needs. With “British” three-band EQ and four mic preamps, the Xenyx 1204USB is a versatile audio mixer suitable for streamers, musicians and talk show hosts. It’s also got a built-in USB/audio interface and an easy-to-use one-knob compression.
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Read later: Top streaming equipment based on your budget
The USB-powered Creative Sound Blaster K3+ is perfect for streamers, musicians and podcasters. It was designed specifically for streamers — it’s compact, works with your phone or mobile device and can run on a USB power bank. It’s also easy to set up and has decent recording capabilities. The Sound Blaster K3+ gives you high-quality audio for a fraction of the price.
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Any broadcaster in need of a compact, versatile audio mixer should look to the Mackie Mix5. It comes with five channels, mic preamp and two-band EQ. Its lightweight design makes it ideal for both home broadcasting and streaming small events. The Mix5 also has a durable metal chassis that ensures it lasts a long time.
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If you want the audio quality of your stream to be perfect, you’ll need the right audio mixer to make it happen. After reading our recommendations, you should understand what you need in an audio mixer and how to find the best one for your streams.
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