The Top 5 Digital Mixers Of The Year At Every Budget
- Matt
- May 17
- 7 min read
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The Best Digital Mixers for Live Music: Product Comparison and Expert Insights
For my deep dive into the Behringer XAir XR18 & why it was my ultimate pick, click here
If you are ready to ditch the crappy mixers that are provided for you at venues and control
your own sound, this is the blog post for you.
I've put together some information and a list of my suggestions at different price points so you can find the best digital mixer for you.
Looking at value, quality and ease of use - there should be something here for you no matter if you perform solo or as a band, in big or small venues. My hope for this article is to give you, dear reader, clear and simple information to help you make your purchasing decision.
Please let me know in the comments if you found this article helpful or if you have any questions or feedback.
Lets dive right in!
Contents
What Is a Digital Mixer?
Lets start off at the beginning - what is a Mixer (Sound/Music Mixer - this is not a baking blog).
A sound mixer takes in audio signals from instruments, microphones and even the playback of other sounds then lets you control the balance of the levels, tone and can also allow you to add effects. It gives you the control of how each part of a performance will sound.
A digital sound mixer processes the sound using digital tech rather than through analogue circuitry (Im really stating the obvious here haha). It allows for more precise control of the things mentioned above and with less 'noise' interference compared to the analogue devices.
Digital mixes will allow for more complex routing meaning you can customise mixes a lot more and also have better control of monitors and in ear monitoring systems.
The History of Mixers: From Analog to Digital
Analog mixers were dominant from the 60's till the early 2000s (for the vast majority) used both in the studio and live.
Digital mixers started to be seen in the late 80s but werent really practical till the 2000s.
The early digital mixers were pretty expensive and also not easy to use - they would most often be only seen in broadcast mediums or large venues.
As computer processors improved, the digital mixers started to become smaller, cheaper (great for us at home) and more widely available.
When Software came along, it changed how mixers could be used (especially on Ipad and other tablets).
Getting to today - digital mixers have so many features and can be accessible to anyone how wants one.
How Digital Mixers Work
These devices can be pretty technical as most things in digital land are. I have broken down some key points to highlight in the easiest way that I can.
Inputs (mics, instruments) are converted to digital signals using AD (Audio - to - Digital) converters.
Internal DSP (Digital Signal Processing) works on the EQ, dynamics, FX, routing and mixing.
The output signals are switched back to analog via DA (you guessed it, Digital to Analogue) converters for speakers or headphones.
You can control settings using onboard touchscreen, physical knobs or software.
Presets (also can be known as scenes) can store complete mix settings so you can use them over and over.
Built-in Wi-Fi or Ethernet allows you to use multiple device controls — This is important when you have engineers and performers.
Most mixers now support multi track recording using USB, SD card or a DAW.
Some even offer auto-mixing which levels microphones dynamically.
Key Features to Look For in a Digital Mixer
Here is a list of features that I think (and looked for myself) when exploring all the options available in the digital mixing space.
Number of input channels
Look realistically at how many instruments and Mics that you need.
Quality of Preamps
All preamps are not equal - a Preamp helps to amplify the weaker signal coming from your mic & instruments.
Built-in effects like reverb, delay and compression.
These are great to have but, do you need them if you already have them in your setup?
Remote control functionality
Look for the best way to connect to other devices you own such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, tablet/PC.
Recording capability
Do you want or need to record from the digital mixer? Look at the connections such as usb or SD card.
Is It a touchscreen, connected app or both
Also worth considering if I already have a compatible device or I also need to purchese another phone or tablet.
Features that include stopping feedback and assist in setting the gain
Sometimes these can be set manually but some modes offer AI.
How many and what types of output options are there
Think about multiple aux sends, monitor outs, stereo/mono control.
Portability
Is it easy to move around or does it require to be mounted to a rack.
Support Systems
Does the mixer have Long-term support, provide regular firmware updates and does it have a community attached that you can ask questions to?
Comparison Table For the Top 5 Digital Mixers
Mixer | Price Range | Inputs | What Sets It Apart | Quick Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Soundcraft Ui12 | $ | 12 | Remote control via Wi-Fi, full channel processing, 4-band EQ, Lexicon FX | |
Behringer XAir XR18 | $$ | 18 | Midas preamps, Wi-Fi router built-in, auto-mixing, full multitrack USB interface | |
Allen & Heath CQ-18T | $$$ | 18 | 96kHz engine, touch screen, built-in Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, Gain/Feedback Assist | |
Yamaha DM3 Standard | $$$$ | 22 | 96kHz, 9” touchscreen, pro-level preamps, DAW control, ideal for top-tier users |
Top 5 Digital Mixers - Detailed Info
12-channel remote-controlled digital mixer.
Works with iOS Android, Windows & Mac.
Built-in Reverb, Delay & Chorus.
Individual EQ, compression, de-esser for each input.
You can control up to 10 devices at the same time.
Wi-Fi/Ethernet-based connection setup.
Why it's great:
It is wireless and can be used across different operating systems.
It has a really great feature set but at entry-level price.
This would be a great step up for your band or live music venue.
For my deep dive into the Behringer XAir XR18 & why it was my ultimate pick, click here
This is 18-channel mixer with 16 high quality Midas-designed preamps.
Comes with an Integrated Tri-Mode Wi-Fi router.
It has a crazy Bidirectional USB interface that is perfect for multitrack recording.
Auto-mixing with gain sharing! Game Changer.
Contains the X32 effects engine built-in that supplies you with studio-grade processing.
Why it's great:
For the price it gives you amazing features at great quality.
Versatile for live playing but also as part of your studio.
The tablet control is simple but also has really powerful routing options.
This is a18-channel mixer with 96kHz processing power.
The touchscreen is 7” and also has rotary controls for fast access.
Dual Wi-Fi bands and Bluetooth are built-in.
Has both USB and SD multitrack recording & playback.
Comes with Feedback/Gain Assist, FX Assist and quick presets.
Why it's great:
This is a "smart" mixer for musicians that want speed and power.
It really is packed with auto tools that can help you find the perfect sound.Packed with auto-tools that simplify sound engineering.
Versatile piece of equipment for those taking a step up.
This is a compact mixer with 22 channels and a 96kHz sample rate.
It has a 9” touchscreen and single-knob control.
A Huge 18x18 USB interface for live sound and studio recording.
Uses QuickPro presets from Yamaha’s.
Amazingly powerful effects and DAW control integration.
Why it's great:
This one is a professional level sound and control device.
Perfect for studios, taking away on tours and next level productions.
Comes from the highly reputable Yamaha that features are packed in one portable console.
Summary - The Best Digital Mixers
Digital mixers have helped to transform what is possible in live sound today - not just at the pro level but for everyone. The have the advantages of being compact, powerful and integrate into your current setup.
As you have seen from the above, they come in all different budgets and can be fit almost all experience levels (these are probably not needed for someone at the beginner stage but def. for those starting their live music journey).
If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave the message below.
Happy Musician-ing,
till next time
Matt
Key product summary:
Soundcraft Ui12 introduces the idea of remote mixing and has full feature flexibility at a beginner to mid price.
Behringer XAir XR18 is the most versatile pick (and mine as well) with profesh features but at great value. For my deep dive into the Behringer XAir XR18 & why it was my ultimate pick, click here.
Allen & Heath CQ-18T perfect for musicians and producers who want touchscreen control and smart audio tools.
Yamaha DM3 Standard This is the best-in-class (also the most expensive but you are getting premium features) for serious professionals and professional environments.
About the Author
Matt A, Founder and Head Writer @ Music Thought House
I have had a lifelong passion for music. I picked up my first guitar when I was 10 and it's been there, most of the time haha, ever since. I have played and studied music ever since that time, always trying to learn more and get better. There is not one aspect of music that I am still not in awe of.
I have gathered a lot of information over time and now, with Music Thought House, I have decided to release it on the world.
I know that music can be daunting and seemingly complex and I am not a complicated person. The blog posts I write am to keep things simple and straightforward so everyone can get a better understanding of music.
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