The 3 Best Audio Mixers for Streaming

When investing in streaming, you must have great audio to help you stand apart from other streamers. While most people only consider their microphones, your audio mixer plays a vital role in your sound quality. From fine-tuning the effects on your voice to bringing compression and gain into the mix, having an audio mixer can be the difference between good and great audio. In this post, I’ll discuss audio mixers for streaming and compare the five best audio mixers for streaming. But first, let’s look at my top 3 personal choices.

My Top 3 Choices of Audio Mixers for Streaming

I’ve rated my top 3 choices below based on my personal experience being a live streamer for several years now. Here is my personal choice, the runner up and the budget friendly option!

The Yamaha MG10XU is my personal choice and it is what I use on my streams. I’ll explain a bit more in detail below. First, I want to briefly explain what does an audio mixer do.

What Exactly Does an Audio Mixer Do?

An audio mixer is an interactive device that combines audio signals from numerous sources, such as instruments and microphones. While allowing the user to adjust and add settings such as compression, an audio mixer serves as the central interface to input and output audio signals.

If you’re wondering the difference between an audio mixer and audio interface, check out this above video by Music Repo.

The 3 Best Audio Mixers for Streaming

These audio mixers and my choices are based on my personal experience while streaming on Twitch and Kick. Within each listing below, I’ve outlined the pro and cons of each.

1. Yamaha MG10XU (Ashleigh’s Choice)

The Yamaha MG10XU mixer is a ten-channel mixer with four XLR inputs and high-quality preamps. There’s a reason this mixer can be found in local coffee shops & bars and is the choice for many musicians.

This Yamaha mixer is a versatile audio mixing console that offers professional-level sound control for live performances, recording studios, and sound reinforcement. With its intuitive interface and advanced features, the Yamaha mixer ensures superior sound quality and seamless operation, making it a top choice for audio professionals worldwide.

With built-in effects such as reverb and compression, fine-tuning EQ controls is quick and easy. While you will need an external power supply, the Yamaha MG10XU is durable and reliable.

While you can connect the Yamaha MG10XU to your streaming computer, you may run into low audio levels due to USB interface compatibility issues. All things aside, I love this mixer and running numerous microphones and instruments into this mixer; it works like a champ.

Pros:

• High-quality sound:
  The mixer is designed to deliver clear and powerful sound quality, making it perfect for live performances, recording, or broadcasting.
• Versatility:
  The product comes with a range of features, including built-in effects, compression, and EQ, allowing you to customize your sound to your liking.
• User-friendly:
  The mixer is easy to operate, making it ideal for both beginners and professionals.
• Durable:
  The product is built to last, with a rugged construction that can withstand regular use.
• Compact:
  The mixer is small and lightweight, making it easy to transport and set up.

Cons:

• No USB recording:
  The mixer does not come with USB recording capabilities, which may be a drawback for some users.

I highly recommend the Yamaha MG10XU mixer, especially for musicians looking to stream.

2. RODE RODECaster Pro II (My Runner Up)

RODE is no stranger to the streaming and audio space. Known for high-quality and professional sound, the RODE RODECaster Pro II is no exception.

With four microphone inputs, preamps, programmable sound pads for sound effects, excellent touchscreen UI, and multitrack recording, the RODE RODECaster Pro II is a fantastic audio mixer for streaming.

While being a bit pricey, limited to four microphone inputs, and larger than most mixers, you won’t be disappointed with this powerful audio mixer for streaming.

Pros:

• High-quality sound:
  The RODE RODECaster Pro II is designed to deliver clear and powerful sound quality, making it perfect for podcasting, live streaming, or recording.
• Versatility:
  The product comes with a range of features, including six inputs (four XLR/instrument and two assignable to USB/Bluetooth/USB chat/smart pads), built-in effects, compression, and EQ, allowing you to customize your sound to your liking.
• User-friendly:
  The RODE RODECaster Pro II is easy to operate, making it ideal for both beginners and professionals.
• Durable:
  The product is built to last, with a rugged construction that can withstand regular use.
• Smart Pads:
  The smart pads can be used to play sound clips, voice effects, fade in/out, and can be assigned a physical or virtual fader as well.
• Multiple outputs:
  The product comes with four physical XLR and 1/4 inch inputs, Right and Left monitor speaker output, and four headphone outputs, providing multiple options for monitoring and recording.

Cons:

• Expensive:
  The product is relatively expensive compared to other similar products on the market.
• Limited channels:
  The RODE RODECaster Pro II only has six inputs, which may not be enough for larger performances or recordings.

Overall, the RODE RODECaster Pro II has many pros that make it a great option for podcasters, content creators, and musicians. The high-quality sound, versatility, user-friendliness, durability, smart pads, and multiple outputs make it a powerful tool for recording and broadcasting. However, the limited channels, high price, and potential USB compatibility issues may be a drawback for some users.

Before purchasing, make sure you’ll be able to get the RODE RODECaster Pro II enough power through USB ports. Otherwise, you could have connectivity and functionality issues.

3. Alto TruMix 500 Mixer (My Budget Choice)

While helping out a musician friend looking to get into streaming, I came across the Alto TruMix 500 Mixer. Small but mighty, it comes equipped with one XLR and four analog channels of line inputs with dedicated EQ and volume controls for each channel.

With a simple design, it doesn’t have many features or effects as most other audio mixers but is compact and available for streamers on a budget.

Pros:

• Portable:
  The Alto Professional TrueMix 500 is a compact and portable mixer, making it easy to take with you on the go.
• Plug-and-play USB connectivity:
  It can be connected to a computer via USB for fast and easy recording and broadcasting.
• Tailor your sound:
  The TrueMix 500 features a warm, natural two-band EQ on all channels for adding studio-grade processing to all inputs, including your dynamic microphone and line inputs.
• Multiple input options:
  Comes with five analog inputs, including a Mic Input Channel with XLR in for connecting your dynamic mic, two Stereo Input Channels with dual balanced ¼” TRS inputs, and a balanced ¼” line input for connecting instruments and other line-level signals.

Cons:

• No built-in effects or sounds:
  The product does not come with built-in effects, such as reverb or delay, which may be a drawback for some users.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, minimal audio mixer for your stream, look no further than the Alto TruMix 500 Mixer.

Honorable Mentions

Here are a few others worth looking at.

TC-Helicon GoXLR

If you’ve watched a gaming stream on Twitch, you’ve likely seen your favorite streamer rocking a TC-Helicon GoXLR.

Built specifically for streamers, this audio mixer is aesthetically beautiful, with the ability to change the colors of your lights onboard the TC-Helicon GoXLR. Boasting a four-channel mixer with motorized faders, built-in and customizable sound effects, a built-in headphone amp, and easy integration with most streaming software, it’s no wonder the TC-Helicon GoXLR is a popular choice.

On the flip side, be wary of a higher price point, complicated UI, no power button, no headphone volume control, one microphone port, and problems with functionality due to TC-Helicon’s software.

Behringer XENYX QX1002USB

Like the Yamaha mixer, the Behringer XENYX QX1002USB features ten channels onboard the audio mixer. With built-in compression and EQ, this audio mixer is compact and easy to use.

The Behringer mixer is a versatile audio mixing console used in live sound and recording applications. Known for their affordability and quality, Behringer mixers offer various features such as multiple inputs, built-in effects, and intuitive controls. Ideal for both beginners and professionals, these mixers provide excellent sound mixing capabilities at an affordable price point.

There are also no driver requirements to use the Behringer XENYX QX1002USB with your streaming setup.

A few cons for the Behringer XENYX QX1002USB, there are no effects or advanced features on the audio mixer, there are only two XLR inputs and no XLR outputs, and some users have reported a fragile power adaptor connectivity issue and overheating.

For more about the Behringer XENYX QX1002USB, check out a forum on one of my favorite audio forums, Sound on Sound.

What to Look for in An Audio Mixer for Live Streaming

Having the best audio mixer goes a long way in achieving the best audio for your stream. To help you stand apart, these are the top ten factors to consider when looking for an audio mixer for streaming.

1. USB Connectivity

Mixers with USB connectivity make setting up and customizing your audio mixer to your streaming software easier. You don’t have to deal with external programs by connecting the mixer straight to your computer unless you want more advanced sounds.

2. Phantom Power 

Specific microphones require phantom power. Make sure if you are using a condenser or certain types of dynamic microphone, your mixer has phantom power.

3. Preamps

You need to have a preamp for many microphones, including the ever-popular Shure SM7B. An excellent audio mixer improves your microphone sound quality, helping you sound more professional. Sweetwater goes more in-depth about preamps here. 

4. Built-In Effects 

As a musician or constant chatter, effects such as EQ, reverb, and compression may be vital to you. Additionally, you can control those effects through an analog board, depending on the audio mixer you choose.

5. Number of Channels

In my setup on Twitch, my partner and I each have a microphone, and each has an instrument input (for guitar and piano, respectfully) into our audio mixer. We additionally have three computers in our setups, requiring three different audio feeds. For your setup, think about your current setup and audio needs, but also be sure to think about what ideal number of inputs you’ll need. Note that most mixers only have compression on two channels for vocals. 

6. User Interface 

While an audio mixer may have many effects and capabilities, ensure it’s easy to use. Especially while you are streaming, you’ll need to adjust on the fly. Ensure the mixer’s design and interface are easy to understand and use.

7. Compatibility 

Ensure that the mixer you want to get works with your current setup. Some audio mixers are only compatible with some streaming software or computers. Ensure that any software or drivers you’ll need to run with your stream setup are consistent with the mixer you want to purchase. 

8. Size / Portability 

While large audio mixers may be great, you must consider how much space you have for an audio mixer in your setup. If you are planning on traveling with your mixer, be sure you can transport your mixer easily by considering the weight of your mixer.

9. Durability / Build Quality 

Investing in a well-built mixer can be the difference between investing in numerous mixers and buying one great mixer. From experience, our Yamaha MG10XU has stood the test of time, traveling with us to countless live shows, film sets, and now, in our Twitch stream setup. We’ve dropped it, stepped on it, and had drinks spilled on it, and it still works like the first day we got it. 

10. Budget 

Finally, consider how much you want to invest in your audio mixer. Remember, you’ll need a solid microphone, headphones to make your audio work, and all the cables you’ll need.

FAQs About Audio Mixers for Live Streaming

While navigating the world of audio mixers can be overwhelming, I’ve developed a list of commonly asked questions about audio mixers for streaming.

And The Best Audio Mixer for Streaming Is..

Choosing the right mixer for your streaming setup can help you stand apart from other streamers by creating high-quality audio. When looking for an audio mixer for your stream, consider your budget, compatibility, durability, and inputs/outputs you’ll need.

Here’s a quick recap of the 5 best audio mixers for streaming

1. Yamaha MG10XU (my personal choice)
   • offers reliability and sound quality best for musicians
2. RODE RODECaster Pro II
   • provides an all-in-one solution with advanced capabilities
3. Alto TruMix 500 Mixer
   • a budget-friendly choice for smaller setups
4. TC-Helicon GoXLR
   • dedicated hardware interface with customizable features
5. Behringer XENYX QX1002USB
   • an affordable option with decent features

Thanks for reading, enjoy your new audio mixer and happy streaming!

More awesome gear reviews

Now that you know about the best audio mixers for streaming, do you want more gear? Of course you do.. lol Here are a few more items you can read about for your filmmaking or steaming set-up:

• The Best Headphones Under $500 for Streaming
• Zoom H6 Handy Recorder Review
• The Best Field Recorders For Film