10 Best Audio Mixers 2025 in the United States

The Mackie ProFX10v3 is a 10-channel compact mixer that includes built-in effects and USB connectivity, making it quite versatile for various audio mixing needs. With ten channels, it offers ample input options for small to medium-sized setups, making it suitable for live performances, home studios, and small recording sessions.

The USB connectivity is a great feature, allowing for easy integration with computers and digital audio workstations, which is beneficial for recording and streaming purposes. Additionally, the built-in effects add value by providing creative options without needing external processors.

The mixer is relatively portable, weighing just 4.9 pounds and having compact dimensions, which is convenient for on-the-go musicians and presenters. While it is an analog mixer, and may not offer the same level of precision and flexibility as some digital mixers, it remains a reliable and user-friendly option. The preamp quality, while decent for most uses, might not meet the standards of high-end professional studios. Despite these minor limitations, the Mackie ProFX10v3 stands out as a versatile and portable mixer with USB connectivity and built-in effects.

The Allen & Heath CQ-12T Digital Mixer is a versatile and compact solution for audio mixing needs. With 12 channels, including 10 mic or line inputs and a stereo line input, this mixer offers ample connectivity options. The inclusion of a stereo Bluetooth input is a nice touch, allowing for wireless streaming directly into the mix. The 16x16 USB interface and SD record/playback capabilities provide extensive recording and playback options, making it suitable for both live performances and studio use.

The 7” touchscreen is user-friendly and intuitive, paired with a rotary control for precise adjustments. Customization is also a highlight with three custom SoftKeys, enabling quick access to preferred settings or effects. One of the standout features is the built-in preamp quality, which ensures clear and high-fidelity audio. Despite its digital nature, the mixer maintains a user-friendly interface that is not overwhelming for beginners.

On the downside, it weighs 8.58 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for those looking for ultimate portability. Additionally, while the mixer’s price point might be higher compared to some other options on the market, the Allen & Heath CQ-12T stands out for its robust features and reliable performance, making it a strong contender for both amateur and professional audio mixers.

The PreSonus StudioLive 32SC is a versatile 32-channel digital mixer that should meet the needs of both professional and semi-professional users. Its standout features include a powerful dual-core FLEX DSP Engine, allowing for 286 simultaneous processors, and its full recallability, making it easy to manage complex setups. The mixer also offers extensive connectivity options, including AVB networking and a 128-channel USB interface, which is quite generous compared to other mixers in its class. This makes it a great choice for those looking to create a complete audio ecosystem with compatible devices like stage boxes and personal monitor mixers.

The built-in multitrack SD Card recorder is another highlight, facilitating easy recording and Virtual Soundcheck capabilities. With 16 FlexMixes and a FLEX FX multi-effects processor, it offers significant flexibility for creating subgroups and applying effects. However, at 22 pounds, it is relatively heavy for a portable device, which might be a consideration for mobile setups. Additionally, while it is rack-mountable, its size and weight might make it less convenient for those with limited space.

The built-in effects and preamps are of high quality, but users looking for an analog experience might miss the tactile feel that digital mixers often lack. Given its comprehensive feature set, including the integrated software suite with Studio One Artist DAW, the StudioLive 32SC is an excellent choice for users who need a robust and flexible digital mixing console for both live sound and recording applications.