The top 7 audio mixers for streaming in 2023

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 of audio mixers that streamers should consider when purchasing. It also lists our seven favorite audio mixers for live streaming.

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What is an audio mixer?

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.

Why do you need an audio mixer?

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:

• Controlling the volume of background music
• Reducing feedback on a lapel mic
• Mixing sound for multiple guests on your stream
• Running a two-PC setup
• Streaming with XLR mics and a gaming console
• Running a live-streamed event or conference with music and multiple speakers

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. As a streamer, you shouldn’t need to download separate Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software, as it’s more for podcasters and musicians.

How to choose an audio mixer

When you’re in the market for a new audio mixer, you have 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.

👀 Type: analog or digital

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.

🔗 Channels

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.

🎛 Tuning

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 their signature sound.

🎙 Microphone

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.

🪨 Size

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 on your desk along with your other equipment. You want the audio mixer to be well within reach so you can make adjustments during your live stream.

🤑 Price

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 will 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.

7 best audio mixers for streaming

1. Behringer Xenyx QX1002USB Mixer

The Behrigner Xenyx QX1002USB analog mixer offers plenty of features to meet more sophisticated needs. With a three-band EQ and six channels, the Xenyx QX1002USB model is suitable for streamers using two PCs. You can connect your XLR mic and control compression with just one knob.

👉 Features

• Two Xenyx preamps
• One-knob compressors
• Processor with 100 presets
• Three-band EQ

➕ Pros

• Built-in USB audio interface to connect directly to your computer
• Comes with free software
• 10 total inputs (two XLR)
• 48V phantom power

➖ Cons

• Tends to overheat near the power pack
• Have to unplug the unit to power it off

2. TC-Helicon GoXLR

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.

👉 Features

• Four channels
• USB audio mixing
• MIDAS preamp
• 48V phantom power for XLR mic
• 3.5 mm input for headphones
• Optical input for Xbox or Playstation

➕ Pros

• Tons of customization options
• Lightweight
• Pro vocal effects
• Customizable RGB lighting
• “Cough” mute button

➖ Cons

• One of the most expensive mixers on this list
• Does not work with macOS

3. Yamaha MG10XU

The ten-channel audio mixer from Yamaha, the MG10XU, comes with a USB interface and built-in special effects. This mixer provides studio-quality sound and is straightforward to use, making it a top choice among streamers who want professional-sounding audio. And with ten channels, it’s the ideal mixer for streamers using multiple mics.

👉 Features

• 10 channels
• 48V phantom power
• Three-band EQ
• D-PRE Class A preamp
• Two-channel recording and playback
• One-knob compressor

➕ Pros

• Up to 24 special effects
• Compatible with iOS and iPad

➖ Cons

• USB cable not included
• Tends to get hot to the touch

4. Alto Professional ZMX52 Mixer

For streamers on the go who need to be able to set up quickly, the ultra-compact 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.

👉 Features

• Phantom powered XLR jack
• Two stereo input channels
• Two-band EQ
• Main, tape, headphone, and aux outputs

➕ Pros

• Affordable
• Good entry-level mixer
• Decent sound control for the price

➖ Cons

• Lacks compression
• No USB-out; need line-in to connect to PC

5. RODECaster Pro

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.

👉 Features

• Four XLR inputs
• Smartphone, USB, Bluetooth channels for remote calls
• Nine language options
• Compressor, noise gate, high-pass filter

➕ Pros

• Store up to 64 sounds
• All-in-one recording studio
• Compact
• Power cable screws in so it doesn’t fall out

➖ Cons

• Expensive

6. Pyle PMXU83BT

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.

👉 Features

• Eight channels
• Built-in Bluetooth wireless receiver
• USB audio interface
• Four XLR inputs
• 48V phantom power

➕ Pros

• Affordable for the features it comes with
• Good beginner board for the price

➖ Cons

• No compression

7. Mackie ProFX8v2

If you want to stream live performances or events, try the Mackie ProFX8v2. It comes with four XLR inputs and seven-band graphic EQ for tuning mains and monitors, panning, compression control, and faders. With a built-in USB interface, you can also easily record your shows or streams. If you’re a musician, you’ll love that you can directly connect your instrument via a Hi-Z input.

👉 Features

• Eight channels
• Three-band EQ
• Vita preamps
• Effects engine with 16 sound effects
• Ships with recording software

➕ Pros

• FX mute footswitch
• High audio quality

➖ Cons

• Some background noise with USB in/out

Let’s wrap up

You want the audio quality of your stream to be perfect, and you 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 perfect one for your streams.