10 Best Small Audio Mixers 2026 in the United States

The Allen & Heath CQ-18T is a versatile small audio mixer with 16 channels, including 8 combo inputs that accept microphones or line-level sources, making it suitable for various setups like small live performances or studio work. It offers strong connectivity options with built-in Wi-Fi (both 2.4GHz and 5GHz) and Bluetooth, allowing easy wireless control and streaming, plus a robust USB interface for recording and playback. The 7-inch touchscreen is a big plus, providing intuitive and quick adjustments along with customizable controls to streamline your workflow.

It comes with four built-in effects engines, which add creative flexibility without needing extra gear. Weighing nearly 10 pounds and measuring around 17 x 12 inches, it’s portable enough for regular transport but not the lightest option if you need very compact gear.

This mixer suits musicians, podcasters, or small venues looking for a modern, feature-rich solution with easy wireless control and solid audio quality. Those prioritizing ultra-lightweight gear or a simpler interface might find it a bit more complex or bulky.

The Allen & Heath CQ-20B is a versatile small audio mixer well-suited for musicians, live performers, and small venue sound setups. It offers 16 channels, including 8 combo inputs that accept both microphones and line-level devices, plus two stereo line inputs, giving you good flexibility for connecting various audio sources. Its built-in 24x24 USB interface and SD card recording/playback make it easy to record your sessions or play backing tracks, which is handy for both live and studio use. The mixer also stands out with wireless features like Wi-Fi (supporting both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands) and Bluetooth input, allowing you to stream audio directly without extra cables. This can simplify setups and add convenience.

The CQ-20B’s stage box design and rack-mount compatibility make it fairly portable but it’s a bit heavier and larger than some ultra-compact mixers, weighing nearly 10 pounds and measuring about 18 x 10 x 10 inches. This means it’s great if you want a robust mixer with wireless capabilities and multiple connection options but less ideal if you need something extremely lightweight for frequent travel. The positive customer ratings reflect strong satisfaction with its sound quality and feature set.

If you want a powerful, flexible mixer with modern wireless options and solid USB recording features that fits small to medium setups, the CQ-20B is worth considering.

The Mackie ProFX6v3 is a 6-channel compact audio mixer that offers several key features tailored for various proficiency levels. One of its notable strengths is the built-in effects, which can be a great addition for live performances or recording sessions, giving users the flexibility to add reverb, delay, and other effects without needing extra equipment. The mixer also includes USB connectivity, making it easy to connect directly to a computer for recording or streaming, which is a significant advantage for podcasters and small studio setups.

Additionally, the mixer has phantom power, necessary for using high-quality condenser microphones, which are often preferred for studio recordings due to their sensitivity and sound quality. The input types are versatile, including 1/4-inch audio, USB, 3.5mm audio, and headphone jacks, allowing for a variety of audio sources to be connected. The small size and light weight (2.6 pounds) make it very portable, suitable for on-the-go use or small spaces.

However, one drawback could be that with only 6 channels, it might not be sufficient for more complex setups that require multiple instruments and microphones. Also, while the steel material ensures durability, some users may prefer a mixer with more tactile controls or a more intuitive interface. Given its features and user-friendly design, the Mackie ProFX6v3 is well-suited for small bands, solo musicians, podcasters, and small studio environments looking for a reliable and portable mixer.