Top 15+ Best Audio Mixers for Podcasting
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A good podcast mixer is a crucial part of any recording setup. Every podcaster should have one. From built-in effects and a variety of input options to ease of use and durability, there’s a lot to consider.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the best podcast mixers released this year, highlighting their standout features and explaining why they’re the perfect fit for your needs.
We’ll also discuss the key benefits of using a dedicated podcast mixer and what to look for when choosing one.
Top 15+ Best Audio Mixers for Podcasting
1. R?decaster Pro 2
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The R?decaster Pro 2 is one of the few mixing consoles designed specifically for podcasting.
It offers all the features of the original R?decaster, plus the touchscreen and analog controls, with some serious upgrades and a smaller footprint.
It offers four podcast mic inputs, nine individually assignable channels, six broadcast-quality faders, three virtual faders, a studio-quality compressor, a noise gate, a high-pass filter, a de-esser, and a three-band equalizer for each channel.
There are four high-power headphone outputs and a balanced ?-inch line output, each with its own level of control.
We love the SMART pads. These customizable tools offer bank switching (8 banks of 8 pads for 64 unique actions, and 512MB of internal memory for storing short effects, music, or pre-recorded show segments).
They also offer Bluetooth connectivity, backchanneling options and a mute button, memory card recording, dynamic and condenser mic presets, improved preamps, and multitrack recording.
We love that this device allows you to insert effects and pre-recorded segments into your recordings without having to edit them later.
Ultimately, this is a powerful tool that can replace multiple pieces of gear and customize your workflow but is still easy to use.
2. ZOOM PodTrak P8
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The ZOOM PodTrak P8 is uniquely designed for large or growing podcasts. It offers 6 mic inputs and 2 simultaneous call-ins, allowing you to invite a total of 8 separate guests to your show.
The PodTrak P8 also features a touchscreen, so you can do simple editing on the go. This includes splits. Trimming, or adjusting audio without a DAW.
The ZOOM PodTrak P8 has an audio interface mode, allowing you to live stream your podcast if you so choose. Keep in mind that this feature comes at a cost; this is one of the more expensive mixers on our list.
3. Rodecaster Duo
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Rode’s Rodecaster Duo often stands out in the portable podcast mixer market and is praised for its compact design that doesn’t skimp on features.
This mixer simplifies the technical requirements of podcast production with intuitive controls that are easy to navigate, making it ideal for podcasters of all skill levels.
It offers a variety of connectivity options, including inputs for microphones, instruments, and wireless devices via USB-C and Bluetooth for simple plug-and-play operation compatible with both Mac and PC.
It also seamlessly integrates sound effects and jingles that can be triggered via programmable pads, enhancing the dynamics and professionalism of any podcast.
Whether you’re conducting a solo session or conducting multiple guest interviews, the Rodecaster Duo provides all the tools you need to efficiently produce high-quality audio content.
4. TASCAM Mixcast 4
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The TASCAM Mixcast 4 is a great podcast mixer for beginners, as it’s flexible enough to be used in a variety of applications.
You can connect an XLR microphone to any of the four available inputs, and then use the Bluetooth connection to host a fifth call-in guest.
You can also mix internal audio using the LCD touchscreen. This allows you to find and adjust audio settings, menu controls, and more.
The Mixcast 4 comes with free editing software, so you can record, edit, and publish episodes relatively quickly. However, free software can feel limiting for experienced podcasters.
If you already have Adobe Audition (or similar podcast recording software), this won’t be an issue.
5. Zoom PodTrack P4
While having a dedicated studio space is the obvious and ideal solution for podcast production for many, there are times when you need to travel to another location to record.
Zoom is the reigning king of field recorders, and the Zoom PodTrack P4 is nearly perfect for this situation, as it can be powered by batteries, boasts four XLR inputs, and records to your laptop via a USB-C connection or directly to an SD card.
I say nearly perfect because it doesn’t offer the highest audio fidelity of 16-bit/44.1kHz, but for most users, it will be more than enough.
However, pro users shouldn’t rule this out. It’s not a core piece of Pro Studio gear, but it’s very handy for backup or other locations. It’s also a great price.
6. Allen & Heath ZED-12FX
The ZED-12FX is a high-end audio mixing device that offers a number of professional, high-quality features.
It’s a lightweight unit with six mono channels, three stereo channels, 100mm faders, L/R main mix faders, and plenty of inputs for additional sources, making it a great tool if you’re not sure how many people you’ll have on your show.
I also like the fact that it has configurable USB stereo audio inputs and outputs.
It also has built-in FX, great preamps, and is rack-mountable. At $500, it’s a bit of an investment, but it’s one of the best audio mixers that will grow with you over time.
7. Presonus StudioLive AR8C?
The Presonus StudioLive AR8C is more than just a podcast mixer. It’s an 8-channel analog mixer and high-quality audio interface.
The AR8C offers crystal-clear preamps, USB and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, digital effects, and other great features.
It integrates well with most digital audio workstations (DAWs). It has four XLR inputs, four ?” jacks, two XLR outputs, two x ?” jacks, and two ?” auxiliary jacks.
It’s important to note that this isn’t an entry-level device.
It’s best suited for podcasters who have some experience with mixers and audio interfaces and are looking to upgrade their existing system.
8. Yamaha MG10XU
The MG10xu is a traditional multi-in podcast mixer with a quiet noise floor (especially for such an inexpensive unit).
It offers USB and XLR mic connections, built-in compression, and auxiliary outputs so you can run mix-minus setups.
The unit is a reasonable size, so you can move it around without much trouble. It also comes with high-quality preamps and built-in sound effects, giving you plenty of mixing options.
The downside, however, is that it only has four input channels. That’s enough for most podcasts, but not enough for panel-style shows.
9. Maonocaster E2?
It’s hard to argue with the value of the Maonocaster E2. Each purchase includes a mixer, microphone, earphones, and a pop filter.
If you already have the right editing software, you can start publishing and promoting your podcast right away.
The mixer comes with two mic inputs and an auxiliary input port for music playback. It’s especially great for live streaming your podcast, thanks to its 11 customizable sound pads.
However, the E2 doesn’t come with an onboard SD card, so you’ll need to plug it directly into your computer, phone, or tablet. If you’re only planning on live-streaming your podcast, this might not be a big deal.
10. Zoom PodTrak P8
For years, Zoom has been a go-to company for professional recorders, especially portable, high-quality ones. Now, they’ve released their first podcast mixer!
If you’ve been browsing the internet, you’ve probably seen some sites recommending Zoom’s PodTrak 4 as a podcast mixer… after all, it has Pod in its name!
But the PodTrak 4 isn’t a mixer. It’s just a recorder. It has four great XLR inputs and you can adjust the volume for each input, but you can’t adjust the audio with a compressor, de-esser, etc.
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In other words, it’s just a recorder, not a mixer.
For example, everything related to the first channel is red: the XLR input, the fader, the row of touchscreen interfaces, the headphone jack, and the volume knob on the headphone jack.
This makes it much easier to keep everything in your head while you’re adjusting.
There’s also a handy feature called On Air Noise Reduction that automatically lowers the mic level on unused channels.
The PodTrak 8 has six XLR inputs. Like the Rodcaster, it also has a TRRS input for phone interviews, but it also has Bluetooth for the same purpose.
Another highlight is that the touchscreen offers simple editing options, including trim, split, and fade.
11. ART TubeMix
While some of the other contenders on this list are made up of just metal and knobs, as you’d expect from a mixer, the ART TubeMix at least tries to add a little visual flair. It shouldn’t be a big deal, but it is.
Beyond the wood paneling and VDU meters, the TubeMix has another advantage: a 12AX7 tube preamp that adds some real valve coloration to the signal.
While it's clearly aimed at musicians, with features like a dedicated hi-Z instrument input, we found that the ART TubeMix also has a lot to offer podcasters, especially considering its relatively low price point.
12. Alesis MultiMix 4
The Alesis MultiMix 4 is one of the best audio mixers for new podcasters.
It offers two XLR mic inputs (?” jacks are also available), a stereo pair of ?” mic inputs, and a standard 3.5mm input for external audio sources.
This USB audio interface lets you record directly to your computer. That means it only records the main stereo output, so there’s no separate recording.
Nevertheless, this is a simple and affordable mixer that will take your podcasting to the next level.
13. Mackie ProFX
Like the Behringer XENYX, we recommend two types of Mackie ProFX mixers. We’ll focus on the ProFX12v3 here, but you can read about the ProFX6v3 in our guide.
The Mackie ProFX6v3 comes with seven microphone inputs, along with call-in support for remote guests. It also comes with a software package that includes a DAW, Pro Tools, and 23 additional plug-ins.
Keep in mind that you’ll need an external device to record your podcast audio.
Also, this device only has one headphone output, so you’ll need a headphone splitter or separate headphone mixer to ensure that all your guests can hear their own audio.
14. Behringer Xenyx 1204USB
Behringer offers a specific podcast option on their website called PodcastStudioUSB. However, I don't really recommend it.
Yes, it's nice that the kit includes a microphone and headset, but the mixer in the kit is the Xenyx 502. The Xenyx 502 is not compatible with high-quality microphones, and it only has one input.
I recommend the Behringer Xenyx 1204USB. It has six channels, four of which provide enough phantom power for high-quality microphones.
The channels have faders, but the rest of the board is controlled by knobs. There's no touchscreen and no sound pads.
The only downside is that there are no fun or helpful color adjustments.
The machine itself doesn't record anything, so you'll need to connect it to your computer via USB and record from there or connect it to a standalone recorder.
15. Soundcraft Signature 12MTK
The next podcast mixer on our list of the best audio mixers for podcasting is the Soundcraft Signature 12MTK.
Admittedly, this is the most expensive mixer on our list, but the features make it worth the high price tag.
The 12MTK offers multitrack recording, 14-in/12-out ultra-low latency USB playback, and a sophisticated podcast recording interface.
It also features eight 3-pin XLR mic inputs with Soundcraft’s Ghost mic preamps (for ultra-low noise performance), a high-quality fader, and a range of options for onboard sound effects.
When you purchase this mixer, you’ll also get access to the Soundcraft website, which features special training videos and support resources, which are invaluable for new podcasters.
16. TC Helicon Go XLR
?The TC Helicon Go XLR is clearly intended as a streaming or gaming audio mixer, but it could easily work in certain podcasting situations.
For example, solo podcasters can use TC's high-quality mic preamps via the XLR inputs, while the additional effects and sample launching mean there's plenty of room for creativity.
It's solidly built and portable. We like the motorized faders, which provide smooth, nice operation. It's not ideal for every podcasting application, but it does it very well.
FAQs
What is a Podcast Mixer?
Regardless of size, all audio mixers serve one very simple purpose: taking audio from multiple input sources and mixing them together to form a single, unified output.
Different mixers offer all sorts of extra features, like the ability to add effects or equalization, or different ways to connect to devices, but fundamentally, the job of a mixer is to... well, mix.
In the context of podcasting, this means combining multiple microphones and music players or mobile devices and giving the user the ability to individually control the volume levels of each.
What should I look for in a podcast mixer?
When choosing a podcast mixer, there are a few key features and considerations to keep in mind to make the right choice for your specific needs. First, consider how many channels you need.
If you plan on using multiple microphones and other audio sources simultaneously, a mixer with multiple channels is essential.
This is especially useful for interviews and panel discussions, where managing multiple inputs is important. Also, look for a mixer that has built-in effects and processing, like compression, EQ, and reverb.
These features will allow you to fine-tune your audio and improve its sound quality without the need for additional equipment.
USB connectivity is another important feature, as it allows you to easily connect to your computer for recording and streaming. A mixer that integrates seamlessly with your recording software can greatly simplify your workflow.
No more inserting and removing SD cards. The quality of the preamplifier is also important.
A high-quality preamplifier will ensure that your microphone delivers clear, noise-free audio, effectively capturing the nuances of your speech without noticeable distortion or noise in your recording.
Ease of use is also an important consideration. User-friendly controls and an intuitive layout make a big difference, especially for first-time mixers.
A mixer with clear labels and simple functions can enhance your recording experience.
If you plan on recording in a variety of locations, portability is also a consideration. A portable mixer is convenient for podcasting on the go, ensuring that you can maintain high-quality recordings no matter where you are.
Do I need a dedicated podcast mixer?
There are several advantages to choosing a dedicated podcast mixer over a standard studio mixer.
Podcast mixers often come with features specifically designed for podcasting, such as sound pads for triggering music and effects, and phone connections for live call-ins.
These custom features simplify the recording process and often include built-in recording capabilities, saving you time and reducing the need for additional equipment.
Additionally, special features like noise gates and de-essers on podcast mixers can help you achieve broadcast-quality audio, making your podcast sound professional and polished.
What are the best podcast mixer brands?
Several brands have established themselves as leaders in the podcast mixer market.
Rode, known for their innovative and high-quality audio products, offers mixers like the Rodecaster Pro, which are popular with podcasters for their comprehensive feature set and ease of use.
Zoom is another reputable brand known for its reliable mixers and recorders. The Zoom PodTrak series, in particular, is popular for its podcast-friendly features and portability.
Behringer offers a variety of affordable yet capable mixers, making them a great choice for budget-conscious podcasters who don’t want to compromise on quality.
Tascam mixers are well-respected for their durability and high-quality audio, and they offer a variety of models that are suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
Investing in a dedicated podcast mixer can greatly enhance your podcasting experience by offering professional features, superior audio quality, and a more streamlined workflow.
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