Top 10 Best Sound Mixers with High Capacity
Table of Contents
Top 10 Best Sound Mixers with High Capacity and Functionality
Sound mixers are essential tools for musicians, producers, DJs, and audio engineers, as they enable the manipulation of multiple audio sources for a wide variety of applications. Whether for recording, live performances, or post-production, a good sound mixer offers not only high capacity but also advanced features that enhance functionality.
Here, we’ll explore the top 10 best sound mixers with a lot of capacity and advanced functionalities, and where you can find them.
1. Behringer X32 Digital Mixer
Features:
- 32 Channels: Offers 32 channels with motorized faders, making it perfect for large-scale live performances or studio recordings.
- 16 Mix Buses: Provides 16 mix buses for flexibility in routing and monitoring.
- Built-In Effects: Includes 8 stereo effects processors and a range of EQ and dynamic processing options.
- Connectivity: USB audio interface, ethernet remote control, and MIDI integration.
- Touchscreen Interface: The user-friendly interface includes a 7-inch color touchscreen for easy control.
Where to Buy:
- Amazon: Available for around $2,500.
- eBay: Often found at discounted prices, typically between $2,200–$2,500.
- Sweetwater: Known for a range of pro audio equipment.
Why It’s Great:
The Behringer X32 stands out for its combination of high channel count, extensive routing options, and intuitive touchscreen interface, making it a great choice for both large events and studio environments.
2. Yamaha TF5 Digital Mixer
Features:
- 32 Channels: Offers 32 channels with recallable gain and high-quality preamps.
- Touchscreen Control: 7-inch touchscreen for easy operation with graphical EQ and effect control.
- Dante Connectivity: Supports Dante networking for multi-channel audio routing.
- Intelligent Auto-Mix: Automatically adjusts levels for consistent audio balance in live situations.
- Built-in Effects: Includes a wide range of studio-quality effects.
Where to Buy:
- Amazon: Priced around $2,500–$3,000.
- eBay: Prices typically range from $2,000 to $2,800.
- Sweetwater: Also offers package deals and customer support.
Why It’s Great:
The Yamaha TF5 is known for its high-quality preamps and ease of use, with features like the “TouchFlow” interface that make live sound mixing much more efficient.
3. Allen & Heath SQ-5 Digital Mixer
Features:
- 48 Channels: Offers 48 inputs (32 local + 16 via stagebox), ideal for large venues.
- 16 Mixes: Provides 16 assignable mix outputs.
- Advanced Effects: Built-in FX suite with multi-band compressors and reverb.
- Touchscreen: 7-inch LCD touchscreen for easy control and navigation.
- Audio Interface: 32×32 USB audio interface for recording and playback.
Where to Buy:
- Amazon: Priced around $2,000.
- eBay: Available from around $1,800–$2,000.
- B&H Photo: Offers this model with financing options.
Why It’s Great:
The Allen & Heath SQ-5 combines versatility with powerful digital features, making it an excellent choice for both live events and studio recording environments.
4. Midas M32 Digital Mixer
Features:
- 40 Inputs: Features 32 mic/line inputs and 8 line inputs.
- 32 Mix Buses: 16 main mix buses and 16 auxiliary buses for routing flexibility.
- Midas Pro Preamps: Famous for their clean, transparent sound.
- Integrated Effects: Includes industry-leading effects and processing.
- Connectivity: USB audio interface, AES50 networking, and remote control via iPad.
Where to Buy:
- Amazon: Typically found around $2,500–$3,000.
- eBay: Available from $2,000.
- Sweetwater: Offers extended warranties and customer support.
Why It’s Great:
The Midas M32 is revered for its stellar preamps, which deliver exceptional sound quality. It’s ideal for professionals who need both high input/output capacity and high-end processing.
5. Soundcraft Si Expression 3 Digital Mixer
Features:
- 32 Inputs: 32 analog inputs and 3 stereo inputs.
- Built-In Lexicon Effects: Includes high-quality effects from Lexicon, BSS, and dbx.
- FaderGlow: Illuminated faders for better control and visibility.
- USB Recording: Allows for multi-track recording via USB.
- High-Quality Preamps: The preamps are clean, providing clear audio.
Where to Buy:
- Amazon: Priced around $2,200.
- eBay: Can be found for about $2,000.
- Sweetwater: Offers both new and used models.
Why It’s Great:
Soundcraft’s Si Expression series combines professional-grade effects with a robust feature set that’s suitable for both live and studio applications.
6. PreSonus StudioLive 32SX Digital Mixer
Features:
- 32 Channels: 32 total channels with 16 XLR mic inputs and 16 line inputs.
- Integrated Fat Channel Processing: Offers EQ, dynamics, and effects per channel.
- Touchscreen Control: Full control via touchscreen or remote app for iOS and Android.
- USB Recording: Multi-track USB recording with up to 64 channels.
- Versatile Connectivity: Includes AVB networking, iPad control, and more.
Where to Buy:
- Amazon: Priced around $2,200.
- eBay: Generally available from $2,100.
- Sweetwater: A popular retailer with this mixer and extended support.
Why It’s Great:
The PreSonus StudioLive 32SX is designed with flexibility and ease of use in mind, making it an excellent choice for musicians and engineers looking for a powerful digital mixer at a reasonable price.
7. Tascam Model 24 Analog/Digital Hybrid Mixer
Features:
- 24 Channels: Features 24 channels of analog audio with built-in digital recording and processing.
- Built-in Effects: Includes a range of professional-grade effects and processing tools.
- USB Audio Interface: Offers 24-track USB recording and playback.
- Direct-to-Track Recording: Records directly to SD card for quick projects.
- Easy Interface: Classic analog interface with the convenience of digital technology.
Where to Buy:
- Amazon: Priced around $1,200.
- eBay: Available for $1,000–$1,200.
- B&H Photo: Often offers deals and promotions.
Why It’s Great:
This mixer strikes a balance between analog warmth and digital functionality, making it ideal for smaller setups or musicians who need both traditional and modern features.
8. Zoom LiveTrak L-20 Digital Mixer
Features:
- 20 Channels: 16 input channels plus 4 stereo inputs, ideal for medium-scale performances.
- Multitrack Recording: 20 individual tracks recorded simultaneously to an SD card.
- Built-In Effects: Includes a comprehensive suite of built-in effects and EQ options.
- USB Interface: Functions as a 22-in/4-out audio interface.
- App Control: Remote control with Zoom’s iOS and Android apps.
Where to Buy:
- Amazon: Priced around $850.
- eBay: Often listed between $800–$900.
- Sweetwater: Also offers extensive customer support.
Why It’s Great:
Zoom’s LiveTrak L-20 is perfect for podcasters, bands, or small venues looking for a cost-effective mixer that offers multitrack recording and built-in effects.
9. QSC TouchMix-30 Pro Digital Mixer
Features:
- 32 Channels: Offers 32 channels with 6 aux buses.
- User-Friendly Interface: 10-inch full-color touchscreen for intuitive control.
- Built-In Effects: Includes EQ, dynamics, reverb, and delay processing.
- Multitrack Recording: Records directly to USB for easy track playback.
- Wi-Fi Control: Remote control via iOS and Android devices.
Where to Buy:
- Amazon: Priced around $2,300.
- eBay: Available from $2,100–$2,300.
- B&H Photo: Offers this mixer with support and warranties.
Why It’s Great:
The QSC TouchMix-30 Pro provides professional-grade features with an easy-to-use interface, making it a great option for musicians and engineers.
10. Mackie DL32S Digital Mixer
Features:
- 32 Channels: Features 32 channels with a 32×32 USB interface.
- Wi-Fi Control: Full remote control via iPad or Mac, offering total flexibility in live environments.
- Built-In Effects: Includes a comprehensive range of effects and processing tools.
- Touchscreen Interface: Easy navigation through the user-friendly interface.
- Affordable: High-end features at a lower price point compared to some competitors.
Where to Buy:
- Amazon: Priced around $1,800.
- eBay: Can be found from $1,600–$1,800.
- Sweetwater: Available with extended warranties and expert support.
Why It’s Great:
The Mackie DL32S offers a powerful and flexible feature set with remote control capabilities, making it ideal for both small and large venues. Its affordability, combined with its comprehensive capabilities, makes it a standout choice for professionals on a budget.
Conclusion
Choosing the right sound mixer depends on your specific needs—whether you’re looking for extensive channel counts, built-in effects, USB recording capabilities, or easy remote control. The mixers listed here cover a wide range of functionalities and price points, ensuring there’s a high-quality option for every audio professional.
Where to Buy:
- Amazon and eBay are reliable platforms for purchasing sound mixers, often offering competitive prices and various options, including both new and used models.
- Sweetwater and B&H Photo are great sources for professional audio equipment with the added benefit of customer support, warranties, and expert advice.
For musicians, producers, engineers, and live sound professionals, investing in a high-quality sound mixer from the list above will provide the capacity, functionality, and reliability needed for both live performances and studio productions.
