7 best generic audio mixers

Generic audio mixers are essential tools in the realm of audio production, particularly in the context of studio recording, computer recording, and musical instrument setups. Here are some general insights:

  1. Audio Mixers Overview:

    • An audio mixer, also known as a mixing console or mixing board, is a device that combines and manipulates audio signals. It allows for the control of various aspects of the audio, such as volume, tone, and effects.
  2. Components and Controls:

    • Mixers typically have channels, each representing an input source. Channels often include volume faders, EQ (equalization) controls, and auxiliary sends for adding effects.
    • Master controls include the overall volume, master EQ, and sometimes built-in effects.
  3. Audio Interfaces:

    • Some audio mixers serve as audio interfaces, allowing direct connection to a computer for recording and playback. This is especially useful in home studios where digital audio workstations (DAWs) are used.
  4. Computer Recording:

    • Audio mixers play a crucial role in computer-based recording setups.They enable musicians and producers to blend multiple audio sources before sending the mixed signal to a computer for recording.
  5. Studio Recording Equipment:

    • In professional studios, audio mixers are a central component of the recording chain. They facilitate the blending of multiple microphones, instruments, and other audio sources.
  6. Musical Instruments:

    • Audio mixers are commonly used in live sound setups for musical performances. They allow for the mixing of vocals, instruments, and other audio sources in real-time.
  7. Effects and Signal Processing:

    • Many mixers include built-in effects processors for adding reverb, delay, or other effects to the audio signal. Some also have insert points for connecting external effects units.
  8. Digital vs. Analog Mixers:

    • Mixers come in both digital and analog varieties. Digital mixers offer advanced features, programmability, and often come with built-in processing, while analog mixers may appeal to those who prefer a more hands-on, tactile experience.
  9. Budget Considerations:

    • There is a wide range of audio mixers available to suit different budgets and requirements. Entry-level mixers may have fewer features, while professional-grade mixers can be more complex and offer advanced functionalities.

When considering an audio mixer, it's important to assess the specific needs of your recording or performance setup and choose a mixer that aligns with those requirements. Whether for home studios, live performances, or professional recording environments, the right audio mixer can significantly impact the quality and flexibility of your audio production.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best generic audio mixers on the market
  

New Virtual 7.1 CH Channel USB 2.0 3D Audio Sound Card Adapter Mic Speaker Mixer

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

New Virtual 7.1 CH Channel USB 2.0 3D Audio Sound Card Adapter Mic Speaker Mixer

  • Virtual USB 7.1 channel sound adapter is a highly flexible audio connector,can be used with any desktop or laptop systems.
  • No need to install the driver,plug and play, USB bus-powered, no external power required.
  • USB Type-A,double Stereo output jack,double Mono microphone-input jack.
  • Supports System: Windows 98SE/ME/2000/XP/Server 2003/Vista,Linux/Mac OS.
  • Include: 1 x External USB 2.0 Sound Card Adapter

User questions & answers

Question: Does this adapter actually work with the mm-242? i read that some adapters are advertised as compatible with the 242 but aren't. thanks
Answer: I read the same thing, but in regard to the MM-141. I ordered one of these anyway, and it worked just fine. I don't know for sure that it would fit with your 242, but I'd say odds are pretty dang good that it would. They are advertised as working with the 242. If the majority of the reviews on it say that it works for them, then mostly likey it will work on a 242.
Question: Wondering is this regulated and what amp
Answer: I don't think so - and I don't know. I do know that there was a loud hum on the mixer I used it on. Ending up needing to get a different one.

Yamaha TF5 Pro Audio Digital Mixer Dust Cover and Console Protector [Antistatic, Water Resistant, Heavy Duty Premium Fabric, Black] by DigitalDeckCovers

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price
  • PROTECTS: Using a dust cover is an ideal way to protect your mixer against dust, spills, scratches, water, and other contaminants.
  • SIZED FOR YOUR EXACT MODEL. We double-check manufacturer dimensions, and this cover is made for only your printer model. You don’t have to measure and guess the size to buy, or settle for a generic size. And we guarantee the cover you receive will match this size we promised
  • DURABLE, LONG LASTING FABRIC. Our thick 600D nylon with PVC lining will never let dust reach your equipment, and is easy to wipe clean. Unlike other covers, we don’t use cotton twill fabrics which allow dust particles to fall in-between the woven fibers, and we dont use translucent vinyl that will discolor, dry out, and melt when exposed to heat or light.e common binded openings
  • EASY TO STORE & USE: Has an open bottom & slips over the top of your mixer, but easily folded and stored when not in use
  • HAND MADE IN THE U.S.A. DigitalDeckCovers Dust Covers have always been 100% designed and sewn in Denver, Colorado. We have sold over 90,000 dust covers (and counting)

Product features

What harm can a little dust do?



By the time you see that fine layer of dust on top of your mixer, you can be certain at least 3 times that amount of dust has been sucked in thru the vents and holes outside, settling into its internal components that are used for optimal performance. While you can wipe that dust on top away, the dust inside just keeps building up in a thickening layer and sticking to the electronics inside by static charge. As it builds, it will definitely become dangerous -- causing your mixer to run at high temperatures, and by then, the damage will be done. Overheating is the actual "cause of death" in most electronics.



What can I do to extend the life of my mixer and recording equipment?



Prevent dust buildup from becoming a problem. The easiest and best way to ensure the integrity of your valuable equipment is by using a high quality dust cover.







Why buy a dust cover from DigitalDeckCovers?

  • HIGH QUALITY & ATTRACTIVE. These days you don't have to settle for a generic, one-size-fits most, opaque plastic cover, or a thin nylon cover made overseas. Instead, you can spend a few dollars more for a DigitalDeckCovers dust cover that will last for many years to come.
 
  • SIZED FOR YOUR YAMAHA TF5.  We double-check manufacturer dimensions, and this cover is made for only the Yamaha TF5 mixer. You don’t have to measure and guess the size to buy, or settle for a generic size cover. The cover you receive will match this size we promised: WxDxH = 34.1"x 23.6" x 9" Back Height -  3" Front Height.
 
  • DURABLE, LONG LASTING FABRIC. Our thick 600D nylon with PVC lining will never let dust reach your equipment, and is easy to wipe clean. Unlike other covers, we don’t use cotton twill fabrics which allow dust particles to fall in-between the woven fibers, and we don’t use translucent vinyl that will discolor, dry out, and melt when exposed to heat or light. The color of this dust cover is black. Each cover has serged seams with heavy duty thread to ensure it will never fray at the seams or come apart like those other covers with binded, single-stitched seams, and we double hem around the bottom to ensure a good fit.


 

NiceTQ 10FT PC/Mac USB2.0 Transfer Sync Cable Cord For Pyle PAD20MXU Tripower Portable USB Compact Audio DJ Mixer Controller Interface

NiceTQ

Product description

USB PC COMPUTER CABLE CORD FOR Pyle PAD20MXU Tripower Portable USB Compact Audio DJ Mixer Controller Interface



1.New generic USB version 2.0

2.latest USB 2.0 peripheral devices! And it is also fully compatible with all earlier USB devices.

3.Foil and braid shielding reduces EMI/RFI interference and twisted-pair construction helps reduce cross talk thus ensuring high-speed, error-free data transfer.

4.Connector: USB Type A Male to Type B Male

5.Supports plug & play connections for devices such as external hard drives, modems, printers, scanners, VOIP devices & other USB peripherals.

6.PC and Mac compatible

7.Connect a USB peripheral to an USB Hub or USB port on PC

8.Color: Black

9.Cord Length: 10FT

10.Suggested Applications: USB specifications 1.0, 1.1, and 2.0



Package Include:

1x USB 2.0 Taye A-B Male Device Cable

  • Connector: USB Type A Male to Type B Male
  • LENGTH: 10FT
  • Compatible with Pyle PAD20MXU Tripower Portable USB Compact Audio DJ Mixer Controller Interface
  • Connect a USB peripheral to an USB Hub or USB port on PC

G-MARK Professional Audio Mixer Sound Board Console System Interface 16 Channel Digital USB Bluetooth MP3 Computer Input 48V Phantom Power Stereo DJ 24-Bit SPX effects

Based on 58 reviews Check latest price
  • 16-channel mixer, 8 mono and 4 stereo line inputs with phantom power (+ 48V) and microphone preamplifier
  • Phantom power switch and PAD switch, phantom power function, G-MARK MG16MP3 series can use the condenser microphone larger frequency response and higher sound quality. The input channels with PAD switch adapt to various input signals such as MIC to line level and the PAD switch attenuates the higher input signals commonly used by microphones picking up musical instruments to avoid clipping that can significantly affect mixing distortion.
  • BLUETOOTH WIRELESS STREAMING - Hassle and cable-free audio streaming ability directly to the console unit. This audio mixer can wirelessly stream music tunes from iPad, iPhone and Android Smart Phone with mixing board from Pandora or Spotify.
  • EQ and high-pass filter, precise tuning tone, the effective means is a reliable balance operation. The G-MARK MG16MP3 leverages the rich experience of audio equipment with a three-band equalizer on each mono channel, thus controlling the sound. The high-pass filter eliminates unneeded, low-frequency noise, resulting in a smooth, clear mix.
  • Mixers are rugged, impact-resistant powder coated metal chassis. Wavy rounded design facilitates rapid cooling, internal design, the power supply module independent of the analog circuit, which will help reduce the probability of noise, while increasing the life of internal components. Knob controller design all in the chassis surface, so from the chassis itself to the internal circuit board and the parts below, will not be any collision and extrusion.

User questions & answers

Question: Does this console has motorized faders
Answer: Dear customers, Thanks for your interest in the Sound Town 12-space rack case. Upon research, the Behringer Xenyx X2442USB will fit in the 12U rack case with the racking mounting kit. Per Behringer, the rack mounting kit should be included in the original package, please double check if the mounting kit is available to mount the mixer to the rack case. Feel free to let us know if you need anything else. Thank you,
Question: will this work with Studio one as a multi track recorder on PC
Answer: Dear customer, Thank you for your interest in the Sound Town 14U rack case. Based on the mixer's dimension, unfortunately it can't be mounted to the slant top section. If you would like to put it on the side table, the table has enough space. If you are looking for a rack case with slant top that the mixer can mount to, usually you have to look for an oversized rack case that can accommodate at least 29.4" width (width of the Mackie 2404vlz4 mixer ). We do not have selections that can meet this requirement at this moment and we apologize for the inconvenience. Feel free to let us know if you have any additional questions. Thank you,
Question: Can you record directly to a thumb drive without a computer
Answer: Width measures 181/2 depth is about 18 inches back. Depending on your your measurements when you put mount rails on mixer. Measurement are also on the last diagram in details in item.
Question: Is there a carrying case available to purchase for this
Answer: The upper part of the stand is 7/8"

Product features

ADJ Products VMS5 is 6 channel stand alone Midi Controller with 2 Phono, 4 Line, 4 USB, 2 Mic inputs

Based on 33 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The American Audio VMS5 is one of the most comprehensive DJ Controller ever designed for performance minded DJs looking for a solid, all-in-one Midi Controller to control their software and music from their laptop (4 Deck and 2 Deck DVS!), plus have option to use the stand alone mixer as a tradition analog mixer with 4 line inputs, 2 Phono inputs and 2 Microphone inputs. In addition, some general features include 4 USB / Analog selectable Midleg (Midi & Analog) channels, gain/treble/mid/bass EQ on all MIDILOG channels.

  • The lasted VMS Midi Controller from American Audio - the VMS5 is 6 channel stand alone Midi Controller with 2 Phono, 4 Line, 4 USB, 2 Microphone inputs
  • Midi Controller with 4 USB / Analog selectable MIDILOG (Midi & Analog) channels Master and Booth outputs with L/R balance Balanced Master outputs 12 position stereo master output VU meter
  • On/Off soft startup and turnoff Gain/treble/mid/bass EQ on all MIDILOG channels 2 phono/line selectable analog channels
  • Two microphone channels with illuminated on/off switches and gain/treble/mid/bass EQs On/off cueing on each MIDILOG channel Split cueing headphones with rotary mix control
  • Illuminated rubber knobs for ease of use in dark environments Full analog mixer operation if the computer crashes or with external power supply Crossfader curve control Crossfader assign and reverse
  • This is an aftermarket of generic part

User questions & answers

Question: What are the usb inputs used for
Answer: analog is for turntables, cd player and any other inputs . USB plugs into your computer for whatever program you are using, (virtual DJ, Serato DJ, TRAKTOR Pro) This is a very good MIDI for the money,
Question: does it work with djay pro
Answer: I do not know, but it does work with VDJ and MegaSeg.
Question: Can anyone suggest a replacement cross fader (innofaders are expensive). my unit arreived with a defective crossfader and adj is very unresponsive
Answer: I fortunately innofaders are your best bet.
Question: does it work with tracktor Pro software
Answer: Yes

Product features

VMS5

The American Audio VMS5 is one of the most comprehensive DJ Controller ever designed for performance minded DJs looking for a solid, all-in-one Midi Controller to control their software and music from their laptop (4 Deck and 2 Deck DVS!), plus have option to use the stand alone mixer as a tradition analog mixer with 4 line inputs, 2 Phono inputs and 2 Microphone inputs. In addition, some general features include 4 USB / Analog selectable Midilog (Midi & Analog) channels, gain/treble/mid/bass EQ on all MIDILOG channels.

Pro Features include: The Inno-fader compatibility (the VMS Series was the first controls to offer this) with curve control and assign and reverse, XLR master output with Balance & Booth output. DSP D-Core inside with studio quality audio engineerinp + pro stage microphone circuitry. It has 34 assignable rotary controllers, 4 assignable rotary encoders, 50 MIDI buttons with LED illuminations, including 18 with dual blue/red LEDs.

6 Channel Stand Alone Mixer with Full Midi Capability
2 Phono, 4 Line, 4 USB, 2 Microphone Inputs
Dual 2000 Point Resolution Touch Sensitive Turntable Scratch Controls,62 Assignable Midi Buttons and Switches
Virtual DJ 8 Le Included with New Software Features

Depusheng Professional 12 Channel Bluetooth DJ Mixing Console Karaoke Amplifier Digital KTV Sound Mixer with USB for Computer Recording, Bands

Based on 87 reviews Check latest price
  • 12 channels mixing console with XLR, LINE inputs and 48V phantom power.
  • Each channel has GAIN, 3-band EQ, AUX, EFFECT, PAN control knobs and volume control faders.
  • AUX send & return jacks for connecting all kinds of effects from outside.
  • With USB input interface and LCD display as well as control buttons.
  • EFFECT level and output MAIN Faders, REPEAT, EFF SEND, DELAY, SEND, RETURN knobs on the master section.

User questions & answers

Question: I have 4 powered speakers at 2000W a piece. Will it support that
Answer: Dear, does your powered speakers have audio input interface or left and right channel input? If so, you just need to match the cables.
Question: Does this mixer have a built-in usb soundcard to allow it to be connected to a pc through the usb port or is the mixer's usb port for input only
Answer: Can't use USB to connect computer recording, the USB interface on the mixer can only be used to play U disk music. Thanks~
Question: How many bluetooth speakers can i control from this conrtol board
Answer: It can only be connected to the mobile phone's Bluetooth, other Bluetooth can't be connected.
Question: Does this unit have built in amp
Answer: This is a pure mixer without amplifier.

Product features

Professional 12 Channel Stage Pure Mixer

  • Personalized function design, portable console design, accurate control of every sound quality.
  • Classic professional audio equipment provides high-quality sound for various mixing environments, and nice customized sound effects to create your own singing voice.

HUMANIZED DESIGN

  • 12-channel audio input
  • Bluetooth/USB playback
  • 48V phantom power supply
  • Real-time monitoring effect
  • Independent adjustment of high, mid and low
  • Perform sound processing on music and vocals at any time

USB Playback Function

Support audio devices with USB interface, lossless sound quality, read and play instantly.

Wireless Bluetooth Connection

Press the switch key to switch to Bluetooth mode, turn on the electronic device with Bluetooth function, and search for the link.

Mono + Stereo Input

Multi-channel balanced and unbalanced input interface, which can connect various microphones and musical instruments.

Professional 3-band Balance Adjustment

Each mono channel has a 3-band equalizer, and the high, mid and low are adjusted independently.

Powerful & Rich Compatibility

It is widely compatible with wireless microphones/wired microphones/electronic organs/guitars/pure post stage power amplifiers/card package power amplifiers/computers and other equipment.

Blu-ray LCD Screen

The blue backlit LCD screen can grasp all work dynamics in real time.

Powerful MP3 operation interface, you can control the playback/pause/selection of the audio source at will.

Wide range of applications

Used for stage performances, bands, conference rooms, sound engineers, bars and other occasions.

USB Audio Interface,MeloAudio TS MINI compact Instrument/Microphone Audio Interface for iPhone, iPad,Android Devices, Mac and PC

Based on 50 reviews Check latest price
  • Instrument input for guitar, bass, and other instruments, with adjustable input gain to let you dial in the right level for your pickups.
  • XLR Input for Condenser Microphone or Dynamic Microphone, Note: Condenser microphone needs to turn on phantom power, when use dynamic microphone, don't turn on the phantom power, or it may damage the condenser microphone.
  • USB MIDI function is also available on the device. External MIDI keyboards / controllers (Such as MIDI Commander, another product in Tone Shifter serials) can be connected and the MIDI signals can be delivered to up-level App/Software without any other convertors in between.
  • The line out of TS MINi is specially designed with ability to adapt for both balanced and unbalanced connections to speaker/monitor/Amplifier/Mixer. We can get the most benefit for a long distance (>30m) conduction with low noise, low signal drops and anti-interference through balanced outputs which is very useful in live shows or outdoors.
  • Compatible devices: iPhone 5 and later, iPad Pro, iPad Air 2, iPad mini 3, iPad Air, iPad mini 2/3/4, iPad (4th generation), iPod touch (5th generation), Windows, Macbook/iMac, Android( such as Sansung, Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 Edge, Galaxy Note Edge, Galaxy S5, Galaxy note 3, Galaxy Tab S2 etc), Note: On Windows system, proper ASIO driver must be installed to achieve low-latency recording and monitoring.

User questions & answers

Question: I play guitar and bass from the ts mini to my ipad with bias fx 2. can someone give me an example of a good speaker(s) i could connect the ts mini to
Answer: There are so many, really depends on what you want to spend. I use the Bose L1 tower system. Take your stuff to guitar center, they have so many speaker for you to try. Good luck.
Question: How do you connect a regular keyboard/piano using the midi
Answer: Midi in connectiion
Question: where would there be a comparison of what the tone sounds like before and after applying the ts mini? i want to hear an actual demo
Answer: I have the focusrite scarlett 214 and there no difference at all.
Question: can i use both inputs at the same time
Answer: Yes

Product features

TS MINI AUDIO INTERFACE

TS MINI is one of the hero products in Tone Shifter Serials. As a high resolution audio interface, it combines many useful functions for recording and live playing in its potable size and simple connection.

Easy to Use

Tone Shifter Mini(TS Mini) can connect with guitar, bass, keyboard, microphone for playing, performing and recording at studio quality while on the go or in the studio.

Made for iOS, Mac, Window, Android

with the Tone Shifter audio interface, players can connect their iPhone/iPad, computer to a powerful amp. Also they can change volume up/down by buttons. Simply connect, and have fun

Hi-Fi Experience

TS Mini quality to your ear, designed for deep lows&powerful bass. Up to 192kHz/24bit means compromising sound quality, and TS Mini optimizes tri-band balance for Hi-Fi compatibility.

Guitar Play or Practice at Home

Using TS MINi as a multi-effects processor with the connection of iPhone / iPad / PC. Use headphones / earphones or desk monitors for the playback. With the help of Apps or software, we can do recording and save to the mobile device or PC directly. Also we can import backing tracks and performing a real time JAM playing.

Live or Stage Show

The set up is almost the same as playing at home. What’s more is that we can connect the output through the balanced line out to mixer or guitar amplifier (compatible with the unbalanced guitar cable). Also, we can connect an external MIDI controller or MIDI keyboard through the MIDI Input connection. The MIDI control signals including both PC and CC commands can be transferred into USB-MIDI signal and feed into the Apps or software directly.

Recording Vocal / Singing with Condenser Microphone.

Connect the condenser microphone into the XLR input. Select R (IN2) channel as input in Apps or software. Goes to Direct mode level 1 by pressing once of the Bypass Mode Button. Turning on the phantom power. Wait for the 2.5s mute period. Put on the headphone monitor. Increasing the microphone gain of the internal PreAmp to its MAX level, than go down to the proper level as you want. You will get the very high quality sound with very low noise level. Then, you can do recording and real time monitoring of your vocal. With this high quality raw record, we can do any post editing or effect adding later without losing any detail of the sound.

Several Notes are Connection

Instruments input is on L channel;Microphone input is on R channel;Stereo earphone output can be used for monitors as well;Balanced output is on L channel, the output content changes with the Bypass Mode;A Lightning to USB camera adapter cable is needed to connect to iPhone/iPad;Condenser microphone can be used directly with the on-board phantom power.

Latest Reviews

View all