Whatever you’re doing, having the best tools for the job is essential, and the same applies to live streaming. As it becomes increasingly popular, high-quality sound is crucial to ensure outstanding success and distinguish you from the competition.
The USB mixer can enhance sound quality, and the top USB audio mixer for streaming is Mackie ProFX12v3 due to its impressive phantom power along with various sound effects and features.
I have compiled a list of the best USB audio mixers available on the market. Choose any of them and watch the popularity of your streams increase.
QUICK OVERVIEW: Best Mixer
 | Top Choice Mackie ProFX12v3
| |
 | GoXLR Mini
| |
 | Pyle PMXU83BT
|
The ideal USB mixer for streaming merges professional sound and editing capabilities with the ease of recording audio files directly onto your computer.
However, with numerous models available on the market, selecting the right USB audio mixer for streaming is not an easy task.
Fortunately, I have searched the internet and the top online audiophile stores for models to test that will provide you with the best value for your money. Here is what I’ve found.
Table of Contents
1. Mackie ProFX12v3
Best Overall
Stefan’s Take:
Mackie ProFX12v3 is the best USB mixer, in my opinion, for several reasons. Firstly, because of the versatility.
Moreover, it’s one of the most powerful mixers I have ever tried: amazing phantom power, multiple volume controls, and 60 dB of gain.
The sound quality was truly astonishing, and now it’s a standard part of my streaming setup.
| Number of Channels | 10 |
|---|---|
| Controls | 10 |
| Sound Quality | 10 |
| Construction Quality | 9 |
If you’re seeking the best all-around USB audio mixer for streaming, this may be your top choice.
Why do I believe the Mackie ProFX12v3 is the best among these?
This mid-range priced model offers versatility and uncompromising sound quality, making it comparable to higher-priced options available from competitors.
Mackie, a renowned American company, was founded in the late eighties in Seattle. Since then, it has dedicated itself to creating professional-quality yet ultimately affordable audio equipment. The Mackie ProFX12v3 stands as a true testament to this mission.
Who Is It Best For
For this particular model, versatility is essential. This means it can be easily utilized by both professionals and amateurs.
However, due to its affordability, robust design, and user-friendly interface, it is truly ideal for at-home use, especially for various types of content creators and live streaming.
Key Features
The Mackie ProFX12v3 offers a wide array of useful features.
The first item eagerly promoted by the Mackie company is the renowned Mackie Onyx mic preamps—seven in total, to be exact.
Their role is to ensure a clear and precise signal, free from unnecessary noise and other imperfections that can negatively impact the quality of your sound. They also provide up to 60dB of gain.
The GigFX effects engine is another impressive feature, as it instantly offers you no fewer than 24 different effects, including choruses, delays, distortion, auto-wah, and reverbs, among others. These effects are perfect for enhancing the audio quality of your live streams and ensuring that wow factor.
The overall design of this model is not only visually appealing, but it is also genuinely solid and durable.
Of course, this applies not only to the steel casing but also to the internal components. Whether you use it as a stationary device for your home streaming or take it to gigs, the Mackie ProFX12v3 can withstand any beating.
Finally, if all that isn’t enough, features like 48-volt phantom power for mic channels, independent volume control for headphone output, a 3-band EQ, a 100Hz low-cut filter, and Pro Tools software should entice you to consider purchasing this model.
Pros
- Includes effects processor
- Delivers clear and crisp sound
- Durable construction
- 1/8″ stereo jack for plugging mobile devices
Cons
- Pre-fader outputs
2. GoXLR Mini
Ideal for small spaces
Stefan’s Take:
I have pushed GoXLR Mini to its limits to see just how well such a small mixer would work. And a few features stood out.
The amplifier will make even the cheapest mics sound amazing! It is simplified but offers basic controls that are just enough to add some sound effects, improve quality, and instantly mute the streams.
My favorite feature was the sampler creator – I was able to record multiple audios and edit them as desired.
| Number of Channels | 9 |
|---|---|
| Controls | 10 |
| Sound Quality | 10 |
| Construction Quality | 9 |
Featuring an intuitive user interface and multiple input options, the GoXLR Mini offers a seamless workflow and complete control over all your activities.
Created by TC-Helicon, a leading company in the field, the GoXLR Mini is specifically designed to enhance your user experience without compromising the quality of your broadcasts.
In addition to everything else, its efficient, compact, and undeniably adorable design makes it one of the best USB mixers for all your streaming needs. A true powerhouse in a small package.
Who Is It Best For
With a mixer like this, there are no restrictions on who can use it. It is a thoughtfully designed, high-quality device created by a renowned company.
Simply put, if you’re one of those live streamers, broadcasters, or content creators who seek a straightforward, hassle-free user experience combined with excellent quality, then you should definitely check out the GoXLR Mini. It is an affordable, professional-grade device for everyone.
Key Features
First of all, don’t be deceived by its compact packaging – the GoXLR Mini integrates a mixer, voice changer, audio interface, and sampler, all in a single device.
As an audio interface, it supports various USB devices. It is also equipped with a renowned MIDAS preamp, which provides crystal-clear audio, ensuring that the tone of your voice sounds natural, crisp, and full.
The other useful feature is the manual censor, commonly referred to as the cough button, which allows you to instantly pause your stream.
For those who wish to maximize the capabilities of their mixers, the GoXLR Mini can create multiple audio devices on your computer, effectively functioning as if you have up to 12 sound cards simultaneously.
Unfortunately, the GoXLR Mini is not compatible with Mac, but this exclusivity makes it one of the best USB audio mixer solutions for PC.
Pros
- Easy 3-step setup
- 3-year warranty
- Easy connecting with PC and other equipment
- Simple interface
Cons
- Mac isn’t supported
3. Pyle PMXU83BT
Ideal for beginners
Stefan’s Take:
In my opinion, this is one of the most versatile mixers. I could connect it to almost any device, and multiple channels are a big advantage.
Even though the different controls might feel overwhelming, I was surprised by just how easy it was to use it – add a sound effect, mute, boost the bass, pause, skip, etc.
| Number of Channels | 9 |
|---|---|
| Controls | 9 |
| Sound Quality | 10 |
| Construction Quality | 9 |
For many, the name Pyle Electronics is associated with a diverse selection of affordable audio equipment and home electronics.
However, their perspective on the audio mixer is a pleasant surprise and, if I may add, a refreshing change amidst the multitude of more expensive models.
Despite being a low-end model in terms of price, the Professional Audio Mixer PMXU83BT offers a great deal and manages to stand out. This makes it a strong contender for the best budget USB mixer.
Who Is It Best For
Despite its modest price, the Pyle Professional Audio Mixer PMXU83BT offers a great deal to users of all levels, ranging from professional DJs and streamers to passionate amateurs.
However, given that its affordability is one of its key selling points, the PMXU83BT is particularly well-suited for entry-level users, especially those on a tight budget. They will certainly appreciate many of its features and will have the opportunity to experiment and create high-quality content without breaking the bank.
Key Features
PMXU83BT features a sturdy metal casing, with a variety of rotary adjustment knobs and inputs organized neatly on the surface of the board.
However, it remains very compact, making it an extremely portable device ideal for various gigs, events, and home use.
It is compatible with a wide range of external devices, including PCs, Bluetooth, mobile phones, and flash readers, which enhances its versatility.
In addition to several standard features like quality preamps and 1/4″ stereo main outputs, its 16-bit DSP effects engine, which includes 16 presets, is a valuable enhancement to an already highly functional device.
Pros
- Affordable price
- A nice array of features
- Solid construction
- Portability
- Easy connection with external devices
Cons
- For that price range, not much
4. Pyle PMXU43BT
Excellent budget choice
Stefan’s Take:
I did notice much difference between this model and the previous one, except that this one is smaller and therefore cheaper.
When it comes to features, it’s more or less the same – similar audio effects, navigation, options, and design. The difference is the number of channels, but from my experience, four channels should be more than enough.
The sound quality is superb and relatively easy to set up and use.
| Number of Channels | 9 |
|---|---|
| Controls | 9 |
| Sound Quality | 9 |
| Construction Quality | 9 |
Another budget audio mixer from Pyle, the PMXU43BT, essentially provides similar features to its larger counterpart, the PMXU83BT, which I reviewed in the previous section – but at a lower price.
Although this cost reduction comes with a few minor drawbacks, PMXU43BT manages to establish itself as one of the best USB mixers for entry-level users.
Who Is It Best For
Similar to the PMXU83BT, the Pyle Professional Audio Mixer PMXU43BT is a versatile mixer designed to satisfy the needs of various user categories.
In my experience, the PMXU43BT is suitable for professional DJs, musicians, and audio engineers, whether used as a supplementary device or as the primary one.
Certainly, entry-level users will gain the most from this ultimately affordable, yet solid and capable audio mixer.
Key Features
The Pyle Professional Audio Mixer PMXU43BT features a similar blue-gray design, with a rugged metal casing and an assortment of intuitively arranged rotary adjustment knobs and inputs.
Similar to the PMXU83BT, the Pyle PMXU43BT offers a variety of features, including excellent compatibility with various external devices, plug-and-play installation, and an intuitive interface.
This more affordable version of our previous model also includes, among other features, a powerful 16-bit DSP effects engine with 16 presets. This feature alone can enhance the quality of your live streams, gigs, or broadcasts.
However, it also has “only” 4 channels, which means you can mix up to 4 different instruments simultaneously.
Of course, aside from the most advanced users, most others will find that four channels are more than sufficient, especially since I recommend it as an entry-level device.
Pros
- Great value for the price
- Sturdy construction
- Plug and play
- Fuss-free integration with external devices
- Supports Bluetooth
Cons
- No manual censor
- Preset effects are known to be glitchy
5. Alesis MultiMix 8
Ideal for Professionals
Stefan’s Take:
I used Alesis MultiMix 8 as both an audio interface and a USB mixer. I liked that it features several channels, and I could connect my microphone and instruments to dedicated ports.
This USB mixer gives you plenty of options for controlling the sound level, adding effects, managing tracks, and muting the stream, and it has very low latency, which is ultimately one of its strongest suits.
| Number of Channels | 9 |
|---|---|
| Controls | 9 |
| Sound Quality | 9 |
| Construction Quality | 8 |
Alesis certainly holds a prominent position in the world of audio equipment, and for good reason.
After all, this pioneering American company is responsible for introducing numerous innovative technologies that have helped redefine the industry.
Alesis MultiMix 8 USB FX represents their effort to consolidate some of the best features that made them renowned, presenting them in a single, solid, reliable, versatile, and budget-friendly piece of equipment.
Who Is It Best For
Alesis MultiMix 8 USB FX is filled with impressive features, making it suitable for various purposes—from recording multiple vocals and instruments to mixing, post-processing, broadcasting, and streaming.
In practice, this means that nearly every class of users will find the MultiMix 8 USB to be extremely useful.
While the most demanding, professionally-oriented users may find its effects library and some other features somewhat lacking, most others are unlikely to encounter many flaws in the MultiMix 8 USB.
Key Features
Equipped with 8 channels and featuring microphone, line, and guitar-level inputs, the MultiMix 8 USB FX is an excellent device for multitasking. It can serve as an audio interface for streaming as well as a mixer, enabling you to record and mix either independently or simultaneously, depending on your needs.
The designers of the MultiMix 8 USB FX clearly aimed to accommodate various types of users. This is evident in features like XLR inputs with switchable phantom power for dynamic or condenser mics.
MultiMix 8 USB also features an internal effects engine that will enhance your performance with added impact.
Unlike many other mixers available, this device is instantly compatible with both PC and Mac, eliminating the hassle of drivers and complicated installations.
Pros
- Intuitive interface
- Solid construction and design
- First-rate EQ
- Great compatibility
- Low latency
Cons
- Low USB output
- Noisy headphone jack
6. Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX
Best Hybrid Mixer
Stefan’s Take:
I ordered ZEDi-10FX because I wanted to test a device that is simultaneously serving as an audio interface and mixer. And I was more than happy with its features.
Its built quality is superb, and editing the tracks is quite easy. I think it gives you the most versatility out of any hybrid mixer out there. I have tested mixers with a higher resolution before, but 96 kHz is more than enough to get solid audio quality.
| Number of Channels | 9 |
|---|---|
| Controls | 9 |
| Sound Quality | 8 |
| Construction Quality | 8 |
Most likely, the first thing that catches your attention when you see the title of this British-made mixer is the word hybrid.
Indeed, this stylish device effectively serves as both an analog mixer and a 4 x 4 USB audio interface, significantly enhancing its usability.
Originating from Allen & Heath, a renowned British company known for producing high-end mixers, the ZEDi-10FX enables you to create your own streaming history.
Given the reported issues with macOS, this is likely the best USB audio mixer available for PC owners in this category.
Who Is It Best For
Both professional users and enthusiastic amateurs will greatly benefit from this device. Its primary selling point—the ability to function as both an analog mixer and an audio interface—ensures that users of all levels and backgrounds will find it highly useful.
Key Features
Unlike many other popular streaming mixers, the Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX supports 24-bit/96kHz high-resolution audio quality. Whether you use the ZEDi-10FX for sound recording, podcasting, streaming, or other tasks, this essential feature will enhance the dynamic range of your recordings, delivering a true studio-quality sound.
Another excellent feature is that the ZEDi-10FX serves as both an analog mixer and a USB audio interface. This combination enables you to efficiently record, mix, and post-process audio in a single compact device.
Regarding recording quality, the ZEDi-10FX features exceptional GSPre preamplifiers. These will ensure that anything you record—whether it’s a musical score or vocals—will have warmth, depth, and clarity. With this capability, the ZEDi-10FX is potentially the best USB mixer for recording on our list.
All guitar and bass players will be pleased to know that the ZEDi-10FX removes the need for DI or direct injection boxes, which are used to convert high impedance signals. The simplicity of the ZEDi-10FX is its main advantage, allowing you to connect it directly to your analog mixer or audio interface.
Last but not least, the ZEDi-10FX features the signature rugged design of Allen & Heath, making it suitable for nearly all conditions and environments.
Pros
- Great sound quality
- Sturdy design
- Versatility
- Integrated FX Engine
- Multipurpose
Cons
- 4×4 feature works only without the effects
- Not compatible with the latest versions of macOS
7. Phenyx Pro USB Audio Interface Mixer
Excellent option for under $100
Stefan’s Take:
In my opinion, the biggest advantage of this mixer is its size and portability. The manufacturer even includes a carrying case, so if you’re on the go, it will be easy to take it with you.
When it comes to other features, it doesn’t stand out from the rest: multiple channels, +48V phantom power, clean sound, and compatibility with different devices. It works fine, but it isn’t superb.
| Number of Channels | 8 |
|---|---|
| Controls | 8 |
| Sound Quality | 8 |
| Construction Quality | 9 |
Phenyx Pro is a new contender in the competitive audio equipment industry.
This company, based in the San Francisco Bay Area, is committed to providing a diverse selection of cost-effective audio equipment while maintaining the quality of their products.
Phenyx Pro USB Audio Interface Mixer signifies a breakthrough in the budget-friendly audio mixer market and is among the most affordable items on our list.
Therefore, some of the more advanced features were understandably excluded from Phenyx Pro USB.
However, what it lacks in sheer “firepower,” this handy little mixer makes up for with a thoughtful interface and solid design.
Who Is It Best For
With its compact and somewhat minimalistic design, the Phenyx Pro USB Audio Interface Mixer embraces its identity as an entry-level mixer. This makes it particularly useful for novice streamers, podcasters, musicians, and others. However, even advanced users will undoubtedly benefit from having this compact, reliable, and sturdy device in their arsenal.
Key Features
The Phenyx Pro USB Audio Interface features 4 inputs, allowing for the connection of various external devices, microphones, or instruments. Notably, channel 1 includes combo inputs suitable for both microphones and instruments.
Thanks to its USB/Audio interface, this mixer can be easily connected to a variety of devices, including PC, Mac, and even PS4. It is also compatible with various software for audio recording and editing.
Due to its robust construction, the Phenyx Pro USB Audio Interface is very lightweight and portable, making it perfect for travel.
Finally, it also includes a fundamental set of built-in sound effects.
Pros
- Nice sound quality
- Solid construction
- Portability
- Budget-friendly
- Great customer support
- 12 months warranty
Cons
- For the price, not much
Factors to Consider When Purchasing the Best USB Mixer for Streaming
1. Type
Typically, there are two main types of mixers – analog and digital. Given that we are focusing on USB mixers that are ideal for streaming, digital mixers will undoubtedly be your preferred option.
They will give you additional control over channels and enable you to utilize various apps and other software.
2. Number of Channels
The more channels a mixer has, the more instruments, microphones, and other external devices it can support. However, having more channels does not always mean better quality.
Professional audio engineers and musicians greatly benefit from devices with multiple channels. However, for regular users like streamers or podcasters, a professional studio-grade mixer with up to 96 channels is likely excessive.
However, most streamers will discover that just a few channels are more than sufficient.
3. Controls
Controls are a crucial aspect of every audio mixer. Mixers with sophisticated controls enable you to fine-tune effects, gain, and other available features with ease and efficiency.
That’s why you should always take this aspect into account, along with the overall quality of the knobs and sliders.
4. Size and Construction Quality
Larger, professional-oriented mixers are typically built like tanks, with corresponding size. However, if you’re a streamer working from home in relatively limited space, you might want to economize and consider acquiring a compact model.
Conclusion
The list I’ve compiled provides an overview of the best USB audio mixers currently available on the market. While I have primarily targeted streamers as my audience, many of the featured models are also excellent for podcasters, amateur or professional musicians, and others.
Here is a summary of the top three picks:
As you can see, they are available in various price ranges and offer different features and technical specifications. However, one aspect they all share is their uncompromising quality and functionality.
Therefore, I am confident that whichever option you choose, you will not be disappointed. Happy streaming!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are preamplifiers and why are they important?
Simply put, preamplifiers serve to amplify signals from external analog devices such as XLR microphones or guitar pickups. However, their purpose isn’t merely to convert these signals into output signals, which then can be further emitted or additionally processed.
Can I use multiple microphones, instruments, and other external devices in one mixer?
That depends entirely on the number of inputs available on your mixer. The more inputs, the more different sound sources the mixer supports.
