The 10 Best Small Digital Mixer, Tested by Experts

Top Picks

•  Best Overall: StudioLive 16.0.2 USB 16x2 Performance & Recording Digital Mixer 

This digital mixer from PreSonus is the culmination of the company's extensive experience in the field, and it has a wide variety of professional-grade XLR and 1/4" inputs and outputs. The "Fat Channel" function is probably the most eye-catching aspect of this device. With the press of a single button, you can choose any input channel, and immediately all of that channel's most important settings will be displayed prominently in a large, user-friendly interface that includes physical knobs.

•  Best for Remote Interviews: Zoom PodTrak P4 Podcast Recorder 

The P4 might be a godsend if you want to start a podcast but don't have a lot of money or expertise with audio production. This little mixer has four XLR mic inputs with gain knobs and selectable phantom power in a lightweight and compact plastic case. Mic preamps provide an astounding 70dB of amplification, allowing you to record audible content from even the faintest sources.

•  Best Design: Soundcraft Signature 12MTK Analog 12-Channel Multi-track Mixer  

Some of the best analog mixers available can be found in the Soundcraft Signature series, and they cost less than you might expect. It is possible to get started on smaller projects with just the Ghost preamps and built-in audio interface of the Soundcraft, along with the Lexicon effects that come standard. There are eight mono inputs, and three aux sends on each channel of the Signature 12MTK. The MTK is unique because it allows you to assign channels to a subgroup in addition to the dbx limiters on channels one and two. It's one of the best choices at this price, despite having less-than-ideal knobs.

•  Best Studio-Quality: Behringer Xenyx X2222USB Mixer 

When compared to similar products, the Xenyx X2222 USB offers superb value. Twenty-two input channels, including eight mic preamps with individual inserts, three-band EQs, and compressors. Channels 9 through 16 are dedicated to handling stereo signals, including three auxiliary sends and four stereo returns. It seems like there are enough inputs to support a modest band. The X2222 USB also has a multi-effects processor and USB audio interface. At the same time, the rack kit that comes with it makes the mixer ready for the road since it can be installed in any standard 19-inch rack case.

•  Best Hybrid Digital Mixer: PreSonus StudioLive AR12c 14-Channel USB-C Hybrid Digital 

In terms of functionality, style, and overall quality of construction, the PreSonus StudioLive AR12c mixer strikes an excellent balance. There are eight mic/line inputs in total, with four of them being stereo-capable. The first four channels have a parametric mid and high-pass filter in addition to the three-band EQ found on the other channels. You can record at 24-bits and 96-kilohertz thanks to the handy built-in effects and USB 2.0 audio interface. A Bluetooth 5.0 receiver and an SD card recorder are also included.