Specifications
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 20 kHz (+0, -1 dB) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | <0.01% @ 1 kHz |
| Maximum Input Level | +4dBu (XLR input), +14dBu (1/4″ input) |
| Maximum Output Level | +14dBu (Main Mix Outputs), +13dBu (Monitor output) |
| Input Connections | XLR balanced / 1/4″ unbalanced “Combo” jack (ch1 input) 1/4″ balanced or unbalanced (Ch2-Ch3 inputs) |
| Output Connections | 1/4″ TRS balanced (Main Mix outputs) 1/4″ TRS stereo (Monitor output) |
| Input Impedance | 240k Ω (Inst-HiZ), 20k Ω (Line) (Ch 1, Ch2-Ch3 1/4″ inputs) > 4k Ω (Ch1 XLR input) |
| Output Impedance | <1k Ω (balanced 1/4″), <500 Ω (unbalanced 1/4″) 100 Ω (Monitor output) |
| CMRR | > 54 dB typical |
| Phase Response | All connections are phase coherent |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | > 90 dB typical (Ref 0 dBu) |
| Equivalent Input Noise | -120 dBu typical (XLR balanced, max gain), -100 dBu typical (1/4″) |
| Maximum Gain (In to Main Out) | +53dB (XLR), +32dB (1/4″) Ch1 input +10dB (1/4″) (Ch2-Ch3 inputs) |
| Maximum Gain (In to USB) | +44dB (XLR), +23dB (1/4″) (Ch1 input) +1dB (1/4″) (Ch2-Ch3 inputs) |
| Maximum Gain (USB to Out) | +14dB (Main Mix outputs), +13dB (Monitor output) |
| Phantom Power | Switch selectable, +48V DC, filtered, current limited |
| A/D-D/A | 16 Bit, 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz, USB selectable from computer 0.4 ms A/D latency @ 44.1 kHz |
| Computer Interface | USB 2.0 compliant, Windows 7, Vista, XP, 2000, ME, 98SE Mac OS 9.1 / OS X computers with native USB support, Linux |
| Chassis Type | All steel black finish |
| Power Requirements | 5.0V DC @ <500 mA (external) or USB bus powered @ 150 mA typical |
| Dimensions | 1.6″ x 4.0″ x 4.75″ (41mm x 101mm x 121mm) |
| Weight | 1.1 lbs (0.5 kg) |
| Notes | 0 dBu = 0.775Vrms Weight includes power supply and USB cable |
Check out our best podcasting mixer table below.
ContentsMackie ProFXv3 Series mixers are the ultimate affordable solution for live, home recording, and content creators. Everything you love about the series has been dialed up to 11. Best-in-class sound quality, versatility, and reliability that will have you hugging your mixer on a regular basis.
2 The Top Podcasting Mixers I Recommend+15dBu Main Mix Outputs: Maximum Gain 55dB (Mic), 37dB (Instrument), 5dB (CH3 & CH4) USB Computer Interface: USB Class Compliant plug-and-play Mac / PC Interface: Power: Via USB or 5VDC @ 500mA: Dimensions: 1.75″H x 5.1″W x 7.5″D (45mm x 130mm x 191mm). This story, 'Yamaha introduces Mac compatible USB mixers' was originally published by PCWorld Note: When you purchase something after clicking links in our articles, we may earn a small commission.
Make Offer - Numark M6 USB 4-Channel 12' Professional USB-Interface DJ Mixer - Black Pioneer DJ DJM-250MK2 Rekordbox DVS-Ready 2-Channel Mixer, Built-in Sound Card $349.00. Behringer 12 Mixer-Powered, Black $ With a low-noise operating system and tons of headroom to.
5 Podcast Mixer – Ready To Choose Your USB?Podcasting is a great way to do some great experimental stuff. There are a number of different podcasting tricks that can be done in order to enhance the listening experience, and thus increase the value of the best episode. It is just a matter of obtaining the top audio mixer for podcasting, and that usually means a USB option. When it comes to choosing the best podcast mixer there are some basics to keep in mind, but that extra concern can be well worth the extra effort. Given what it can mean for your podcast, it may be well worth the investment in a mixer for your production studio. There are many different mixers for podcasts on the market these days so hopefully this will give you the best idea on which of these podcast mixers to choose.
Are You Sure A Mixer Is Right For Your Setup?
When you are just starting out, there sometimes can be some confusion on whether or not to go with a one of these podcast mixers or an audio interface to buy from Amazon. If you are sure that this is best for you, continue on at your budget. If not, maybe take a look at our mixer vs audio interface article here first.
The Top Podcasting Mixers I Recommend
ImageNameMore InfoOur Top Choice!Samson MXP124FX12 Channels, USB interface, 99 digital effects, phantom power.#2 Choice (Under $100!)Behringer Q802USBXENYX Mic Preamps, professional sound on a budget, 3-band EQ's and more!
Runners Up:
PROFX8V2 8-Channel CompactAvailable in different channel numbers, 7 band EQ, ReadyFX effects, 100Hz low-cut filters.
Mackie 402VLZ44-channel mixing board, Onyx mic preamps, high-headroom/low-noise design.
Behringer X1832USBPremium analog, studio-grade FX processor, 6 studio-grade compressors, phantom-powered XENYX Mic Preamps.
Behringer X1204USBAnalog, 16 editable presets, 'one-knob' functionality, boutique preamps.
Samson MXP124FX – Podcast Mixer
These podcast mixers have high-quality effects and a built-in USB. You can record your podcast mixers by connecting the Samson MXP124FX to your computer with the USB. It has got a 3-band EQ on every channel, and it produces the best sound for studio and stage mixes. This high-quality mixer is affordable and easier to use. Functionality and design merge excellently on this high quality and suitable mixer.
Recording Mixes
With its in-built USB feature, you can record by connecting the Samson MXP124FX podcast mixer to your computer. Use the DAW software, such as Audacity, for easy and simple recording of a podcast guest.
Effects
This mixer has 100 inbuilt, high-quality podcast effects with a 24-bit solution to choose from. With these best studio-quality effects, you are covered for;
- Delays
- Reverbs
- Tremolo
- Chorus
Applications
These mixers have small format mixing applications like a podcast. It has four preamplifier microphones and phantom power. Each input has high pass filters. Other podcast applications include four stereo line inputs, four monoline inputs, one knob compressor, drum overheads and best podcast vocals.
Features
- USB connection
- 100 inbuilt effects
- One-knob compressors
- 3-band EQ
- 12 channels
- Four microphone preamplifiers
Pros
- Small sized and affordable
- Four clean microphone preamplifiers
- Two one-knob audio compressors
- Can do the mix-minus setup
Cons
- The USB out has 16 bit AD converter. 24 bit AD converter would be more superior and best.
Conclusion
These mixers are best for recording podcasts and video calls with a guest. With it, you get a mixer that perfectly combines size and features. It is easy to carry around and comfortable place on your desk.
Click here for more information On This Mixer.
Under $100 – Behringer Q802USB Mixer
Today, a lot of individuals show their best interest in music or podcasts. While some folks wish to pursue a career in podcasts, others love mixing multiple sounds to cherish something new in their past time. If you are one among these enthusiasts, you may want to invest in a good quality podcasting mixer such as the Behringer Q802USB mixer.
Specifications and features
Behringer’s Q802USB mixer is a premium low noise podcast mixer. This high headroom mixer comes with 2 state of the art XENYX mics preamps just like stand-alone best boutique preamps. You also get studio grade compressors that come with an easier one-knob functionality and control LED for best instrument and vocal sounds.
Pros
- One of the best things about Q802USB mixers is it is fairly easy and basic to use. No matter whether you want to use it with PC or Mac via USB, just plug the podcast mixer and you are all set to play the mixer.
- It can accommodate both condenser as well as dynamic microphones. These mixers work well with any streaming software for a podcast.
- Budget friendly.
Cons
If used for a long time, it gets heated. Also, the circuitry is a bit noisy. Despite these drawbacks, Q802USB delivers a great sound quality at a minimal price.
Final words
A top-notch best mixer such as the Behringer Q802USB podcast mixers can do wonders for you when mixing multiple sounds at your home or recording studio. Affordability, clean and best podcast sound, great add-ons, etc are some of the striking features and benefits of this fantastic choice. This is why many music and podcast lovers choose to buy Q802USB for enhanced sound mixing and better output quality.
Need more channels, consider the Behringer Xenyx Q1202USB.
Click here for more information.
PROFX8V2 8-Channel Compact with USB and Effects Mixer
Having the right equipment is key for producing the best mix of beats that can get your audience moving. Mackie is the premiere name in sound quality and mixing technology. We provide a full range of mixers, faders, loudspeakers, studio monitoring devices, portable PA systems, Bluetooth speakers, podcast headphones and other audio tools for podcasts.
The Mackie PROFX8V2 mixer is a comprehensive and cutting edge sound solution featuring brand new Vita preamplifiers for unparalleled podcast sound quality.
Vita preamps are designed exclusively for best live podcast sound. They are noiseless, and sport a low profile Class-A front end design. Other notable elements include dual feedback and bias current stabilization.
ReadFX Engine
The cutting edge ReadyFX engine utilizes floating-point DSP and is made for aggressive processing of top-notch audio. This produces rich and inspiring performance that any podcast audience will love.
Live Mixing Tool Kit
Every ProFX mixers model comes standard with an audio tool kit. Users get multi-band graphic equalization, channel inserts, and FX mute that is foot switchable.
USB Playback and Recording
The Mackie ProFX mixers feature a built-in USB interface for mixing or recording during live shows. Tracktion recording software that is easy to use and intuitive helps you make sick beats not matter where you’re performing. Great for podcasts!
If you’re looking to take your recording podcasts and mixing skills to the next level, the Mackie PROFX8V2 has all the power and versatility you need. With multiple features and cutting edge sound technology, it has everything you need to be a podcast mix master.
More mixer channels needed? Try the Mackie ProFX 16.
Click here for more informationr.
Mackie 402VLZ4 Mixer
If you are in the market to buy a top-rated analog podcast mixer, you may want to check out the Mackie 402VLZ4. Beyond sounding great, the 402VLZ4 is one piece of gear that you can depend on. With the , you get an amazingly dynamic range, 60DB gain range on Onyx microphone amplifiers and pretty low noise performance.
Specifications and features
It is a 4-channel podcast mixer that features a high-headroom/low noise design of Mackie. You also get 2 boutique quality Onyx mic preamps for some best enhanced mixing and recording. These mixers are built like a tank for maximum usability, it is capable of recording podcasts and mixing multiple sound variety.
Pros
The main benefit of 402VLZ4 is it produces the best wonderful sound. With smooth controls, you can adjust and change the levels and mix at any given time without any issue. Above all, the product is highly durable as it is made of steel to last for a long time.
Cons
Usb Mixer For Mac
To mount it on a mic stand, you need to have screws that are not provided with the package; users find this a bit annoying. Also, some users think that the price is a bit more. Aside from these simple flaws, there are no known drawbacks.
Closing words
Mackie 402VLZ4 is an ideal podcast mixer for blending a range of sounds to create unique music that you want. Durable built, modest price range, clean and crisp sound quality are some of the fantastic features of this analog mixer. This is why it is highly recommended by majority of music and best podcast professionals.
Click here for more information.
Behringer X1832USB Mixer
The Behringer X1832USB is a mixer that makes mixing 14 channels (maximum) of audio at an affordable price possible. The initial six channels offer Xenyx mic preamps, along with four stereo channels. The two-bus design facilitates routing signals to another source. The X1832USB also makes you sound ideal, thanks to the three-band EQs and one knob compression. The FBQ system for feedback detection helps with identifying the odd frequencies so that you could take control over them.
Sound Features
Live sound engineers understand a quality compressor’s significance. The Behringer X1832USB podcast mixer makes compressing easy, thanks to its six channels faders that come with one-knob compression. Adjust the compressor as per your best requirements after having set the best signal levels so that signal-level management becomes easy. The multi-effects, 24-bit processor lets you add professional touches, such as delay, reverb, chorus, and echo, to your mixes and vocals for a podcast.
Recording and Playback
Usb Mixer For Mac
The X1832USB’s mixers ability to connect and hook with your computer is a bonus feature, both on stage and within the studio. Inside the studio, you may record the X1832USB’s stereo output to pretty much any recording software. You could also do audio playback from your computer via the mixer. The X1832USB, for live use, makes mixing and recording the podcasts simultaneously easy.
Pros
- Excellent audio mixers performance
- A compact and versatile mixer
- Great connectivity options
- Small on budget.
Cons
- May not pack in all the power you need
Conclusion
If your acoustic requirements are fairly modest and you do not want to compromise on the best podcast sound quality and connectivity, the X1832USB mixer is what you should be looking at.
Click here for more information.
Behringer X1204USB Mixer
If you are searching for a feature-heavy option at an affordable price, take a look at the X1204USB. The product comes fully equipped with all that is needed to keep you rolling in the world of music. If you are still skeptic about this great mixer, read the below review.
Specifications and features
Behringer xenyx X1204 podcast mixer is a 12 input option with a computer (integrated) audio interface. It offers two stereo channels and four mono channels, making it best for smaller jobs like a podcast. You will find two aux sends on each of the mono channels for routing individual channels to stage monitors and/or external effects.
Pros
It is a high headroom analog mixer with a low noise. The built-in engine effects processor includes 16 presets that come with chorus, reverb, delay, pitch shifter, flanger and multi-effects. You can mix and shape multiple podcast audio signals’ sound together, and route the final audio to various outputs effortlessly.
Cons
Some users have reported that the driver support is not a dedicated one. Also, the mixer does not interact much with DAWS. Aside from these minor flaws, the product is a good choice for beginners looking for top notch mixers with a low price tag.
Bottom line
Whether you are a professional podcast studio recorder or an amateur, you need a good quality option such as the X1204USB that can blend everything you need to create a great music. By expending a minimal amount, you can own something best for small applications. Check out its features, pros and cons mentioned above in view of your requirements, and you will never repent on your purchase.
Click here for more information.
Allen & Heath Zed-12FX Mixer
Buying a good quality podcast sound mixer is pretty difficult due to the existence of so many mixer brands in the market. You ought to be very careful when choosing a mixer for sound mixing. If you are really interested in a best class that returns good value for your money, consider buying Allen & Heath Zed-12FX.
Specifications and features
The Zed-12FX comes with a lot of features including 6 mic/line inputs and 4 auxiliary sends. Other features include a USB I/O with the sonar software and 100MM professional faders. It also has 3 band equalizers with sweep mids for creating mind blowing mixes.
Pros
Zed-12FX delivers what it says – it mixes sound cleanly and produces good quality output to your fullest satisfaction. The settings are easy to get the presets. Also, the pre-amps are clean and easy to use. With a sturdy built and appealing look, it easily drives potential buyers to take a look at the product.
Cons
Some buyers have reported that it comes with a poor instruction manual. Also, users tend to lose channels on send/return occasionally. In spite of these minor drawbacks, it is highly recommended for its innovative features and varied benefits.
Closing thoughts
Picking the right mixer for a podcast need not be a chore if you are aware of top of the line mixers such as Allen & Heath Zed-12FX. Just go through the pros and cons in the light of your podcast requirements. Within no time, you will be able to recoup your investment in terms of best mixing and clearer podcast sound quality that you ever wished.
Here are some more podcast mixer options as well:
- Mackie Onyx 1220i podcast mixer
If you are looking for other options, keep reading…or check out this best podcasting mixer article.
What Does An Audio USB Mixer Do For A Podcast?
First off, it is important to realize what a podcast mixer does. In the simplest sense it is an electronic device that allows for the combining and modification of sounds. At the minimum it can be used to clean up audio tracks and make them sound clearer, as well as eliminating a number of minor audio problems. It can also be used to create special effects, combine and modify tracks, and any number of audio tricks. By using one, a podcaster can make any number of adjustments to his podcasts audio, and have a lot of fun when it comes to their sound.
With that in mind we can explore what it can do for a podcast. For those running an interview show, it means that the interviewer and interviewee can be assigned different tracks, which can actually add some additional clarity, especially if the recording is done as a stereo track and rigged so that one voice is heard in one ear and the other voice in the other. Any music and special effects can be set on its own track so that it be shared control between the two tracks when the audio is combined.
Greatest Options To Consider In A USB Mixer
Mixer channels – How many do you need?
This is actually a fairly easy question to answer. Basically, how many mics are you going to be using to record a live episode. Let’s say you use one podcast mic and headphone per person. You’ll need that many channels. However, I wold highly recommend that you buy something that has more than you need in case you need more later and don’t want to have to upgrade or buy a new one.
Do you want the ability to add special effects?
An important option to look at is the ability to create special effects. For most podcasts it may not be that important, but for others it can add some fun to the experience. For example, it can be used as simply as adding censor bleeps or even drum rolls. In the hands of someone who knows what they are really doing, a number of different effects ranging from storms to closing doors can be added to heighten the drama or for humorous effect. In short, sounds can be added to make the podcast more appealing to the listener, thus adding value to the best experience.
Do you need to include other audio devices for inputs?
A podcast mixer can also be used to tie in other audio devices to the computer so that they can be used to add additional sounds and other effects. For those that compose and play their own music, this means that electronic music can be added. While the obvious is an electronic keyboard, a drum machine or electric guitars are other options; the individual tracks can be recorded, modified as desired, and then added together with a mixer. This music can then be added to provide either filler, breaks, or even accompaniment to a podcast audio play.
Let’s look at an audio play for a moment. It can be used to modify the voices used in the play, as well as any foley work such as slamming doors and shattering glass. A lot of music can be added as well, such as dramatic piano music or even background music. A low frequency sound can even be added for a little extra fear. It is even possible to have different voices heard on different ears so as to allow a listener to really follow a conversation. While this is an extreme example, it is nonetheless worth considering what it can do and then best applying that to your podcast.
How much do you want to spend?
When looking at one, it is important to consider what you will be using it for and how much you are willing to pay. The price is less of a factor than you might suppose but it may be useful to help limit options. With that as the cap, it is also important to debate what it will be used for and what you have planned for it. Keep in mind that most people will never use every possible option provided by a podcast mixer, and thus it is very useful to consider exactly what you need the mixer for. Once you have a best idea what you will be using the mixers for you can begin looking in earnest.
Used or new?
There are some other considerations that need to be debated. The condition is one, as used mixers are cheaper but are more prone to breaking down. An older option will also be cheaper, but may not have the connections that you need. However, there may be some great mixer options when it comes to older used versions that may make them worth the issues that they carry with them. As such remember to look carefully at whatever mixer you end up looking at, and be very careful before you put down any money when choosing the best podcast mixers.
What types of input and output connections do you need?
Be very careful when it comes to the podcast mixer connections that it has. While it is a given that you will be looking for at least a USB connection, keep in mind what other devices will be connected to the mixer. For those attaching musical instruments make sure that those connections are there. Make sure that all of the connections work; there is nothing worse than finding a mixer to record that looks like it works best only to find out it does not.
Podcast Mixer – Ready To Choose Your USB?
It can be you best friend if you know how to use it. Just remember that when choosing the greatest podcast USB mixer for podcasting there are a wide range of options available to you, and that you need to know which best podcast options you are looking for when it comes to dealing with a podcasting mixer, as opposed to an interface for your podcasts. Once you know which options are important it is just a matter of applying those to the mixer you want and grabbing the most important features. Your audio will definitely be the better for it, so make sure that you have the audio podcast mixer for your podcast studio kit you want.
Click here to see our Podcast mixer recommendation.
Podcast Mixers
Mixers podcasting
Hope you liked these podcast mixers for podcasting suggestions!