AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 19'' Rack Mixers for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is ART MX821s 8-Channel Line Mixer with Stereo Outputs ($297). DAP-Audio Compact 8.1 gives you the most for the money at $217. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 27 models across 10 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 8, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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ART MX821s 8-Channel Line Mixer with Stereo Outputs
MX821S · ART
21 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
If you need to mix several mics or line sources at once, this mixer gives you eight channels, each with its own level and panning control. Every channel takes both XLR and jack plugs, and each XLR input can get 48 V phantom power for condenser mics. It fits in a 1 U rack space with an internal power supply, so it suits a rack-based setup where space matters.
Pros
- Eight mono input channels, each with its own level and panning controls
- Balanced XLR and unbalanced jack inputs on every channel
- 48 V phantom power on each XLR input, selectable via DIP switch
Cons
- Phantom power is set by a DIP switch on the rear side, not from the front
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$297 now$297€266 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
- Weight3.4 kg
You get a 5-channel rack mixer with 3 zones, which suits a small installation where you need to feed a few separate areas. It has one mic input, seven line inputs, and two phono inputs, so you can connect a range of common sources. If you need a simple mixer to run a few speakers in a fixed spot, this one is worth a look.
Pros
- Five input channels, with one mic input that accepts XLR or jack
- Three zones, so it can feed separate areas of a venue
- Master EQ lets you shape the overall output
Cons
- Only one microphone input, so it suits light setups with a single mic
70AudioFu
Index↓ 11.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$278 · Aug 17$247 now$247€221 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Rolls RM69 MixMate 3 6-Channel Mic / Line Mixer with Phantom Power
RM-69 · Rolls
7 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight2.3 kg
You get a compact 1U rack mixer with two XLR mic inputs, each with phantom power, plus four RCA line inputs. It fits a 19-inch rack, so it suits you if you want a mixer that takes up little space. Plan on an external 12 V power supply, since the mixer needs one to run.
Pros
- Two XLR microphone inputs, each with 12 V phantom power
- Four line inputs with RCA L/R connections for other gear
- Two-band EQ on line inputs and tone control on XLR inputs
Cons
- Needs an external 12 V power supply to run
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$323 now$323€289 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
- Weight2.95 kg
You get eight stereo inputs, and each channel has its own controls for level, panorama and effect send. There is also an external effects loop for outboard gear. It fits a 19 inch rack in a single space, so it suits you if you run a rack-based setup and want one mixer that handles several sources and effects at once.
Pros
- 8 stereo input channels for mixing many sources at once
- Each channel has its own level, panorama and effect send controls
- External effects loop with send and return control for outboard effects
Cons
- Compact 1U format with only a stereo headphone output for monitoring
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$328 now$328€294 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
- Weight2.8 kg
You get a 7-channel mixer built for installs, with 3 zones and a 19-inch, 2U rack format. It has two microphone inputs, eleven line inputs, and three balanced master outputs, so it suits background music, announcements, or a small venue setup. If you need a lot of microphone inputs for a full band, this one is likely too small for you.
Pros
- Seven input channels, including two microphone inputs with combined XLR and jack connections
- Three balanced XLR master outputs for connecting to powered speakers or amplifiers
- Master EQ lets you shape the overall sound of the mix
Cons
- Only two microphone inputs, so it suits small setups rather than large bands
- Most inputs are RCA line-level, so you may need adapters for other gear
67AudioFu
Index↓ 6.3%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$318 · Aug 17$298 now$298€267 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
- Weight2.2 kg
The DAP-Audio Compact 9.2 is a surprisingly capable little mixer, perfect for small venues, background music systems, or simple sound reinforcement where space is at a premium. Its zone functionality adds a nice touch for flexibility, and the rear-panel gain controls are a thoughtful design. It’s a solid, affordable option for basic PA needs.
Pros
- Compact 1U rack format maximizes space efficiency for install work
- Gain controls on rear panel simplify complex level adjustments
- Combi XLR/jack inputs offer flexibility for diverse microphone setups
Cons
- Limited EQ options restrict detailed sonic sculpting possibilities
- Plastic construction feels somewhat budget-oriented for demanding applications
66AudioFu
Index↓ 2.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$305 · Aug 17$297 now$297€266 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
- Weight2.2 kg
This DAP-Audio Compact 6.2 is a solid, affordable option for DJs, small bars, or anyone needing a basic, rack-mountable mixer with USB playback. The dual-zone functionality is a neat touch for controlling different areas, and the combined mic inputs are handy for quick setups – it’s a workhorse, not a studio centerpiece.
Pros
- Compact 1U rack format suits tight mobile setups.
- Combined XLR/jack mic inputs offer flexibility for various sources.
- Built-in USB player with ID3 display simplifies background music needs.
Cons
- EQ is likely a basic fixed-frequency design, limiting tonal shaping.
- Construction feels budget-focused; expect plastic components.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$365 now$365€327 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
- Weight2.8 kg
The ART MX622BT is a surprisingly capable little mixer, perfect for small bands, podcasters, or anyone needing a simple, rack-mountable solution with Bluetooth. It's a workhorse for basic live sound or recording, offering a good balance of features and affordability. Don't expect miracles, but it'll handle the job reliably.
Pros
- Solid metal chassis provides surprising road-worthiness for the price.
- Bluetooth 5.0 offers stable connectivity and decent audio quality.
- Flexible EQ allows for shaping tones beyond basic adjustments.
Cons
- EQ is basic; lacks the finesse of more expensive mixer options.
- Front panel 3.5mm input feels a little cheap and plasticky.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$344 now$344€308 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
- Weight2.2 kg
You get an eight-channel mixer that fits a standard 19-inch rack in one unit of space. It takes both XLR and RCA inputs, has phantom power for condenser mics, and a master EQ with a Mid Sweep control. It suits you if you are setting up a small installed system or a compact rack setup and want a simple, rack-ready mixer.
Pros
- Eight combined mic and line inputs accept XLR and RCA connections
- Phantom power is built in for condenser microphones
- Master EQ with Mid Sweep gives you control over the whole mix
Cons
- Only a 6.3 mm headphone jack is provided, so you may need an adapter for other headphones
66AudioFu
Index↓ 2.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$222 · Aug 17$217 now$217€194 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight2.8 kg
The IMIX-7.1 is a surprisingly compact and versatile mixer, perfect for small bars, DJ setups, or basic background music installations where space is at a premium. Don't expect pristine audio quality or a ton of features, but it gets the job done reliably for straightforward applications.
Pros
- Compact 2U rack format ideal for space-constrained installations
- Combined XLR/jack mic inputs offer flexibility for varied sources
- Multiple RCA line and phono inputs cater to diverse audio inputs
Cons
- Limited EQ control; only a master EQ is present, lacking channel-specific adjustments
- Build quality likely reflects the budget price point; expect plastic components
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$345 now$345€309 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 27 19'' rack mixers
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
LAB Gruppen CM41LAB Gruppen51Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 12
Swissonic ZM 4Swissonic51Stable$218€195$218€195Check ↗
- 13
Behringer RX1202FX V2Behringer55Stable$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 14
TASCAM MZ-123BT 3-Channel Rackmount Mixer with BluetoothMZ-123 BT · Tascam73Stable$557€499$557€499Check ↗
- 15
Behringer ZMX8210 V2 UltrazoneBehringer63Stable$122€109$122€109Check ↗
- 16
Rolls RM82 8-Channel Microphone / Line MixerRM-82 · Rolls70Stable$524€469$524€469Check ↗
- 17
TASCAM LM-8ST Line MixerLM-8ST Line Mixer · Tascam66Stable$556€498$556€498Check ↗
- 18
TASCAM MZ-372 7-Channel Rackmount MixerMZ-372 Mixer · Tascam66Stable$635€569$635€569Check ↗
- 19
Alesis MultiMix 10 Wireless Rackmount 10-Channel Mixer with BluetoothMultimix 10 Wireless · Alesis64Stable$412€369$412€369Check ↗
- 20
Tascam MX-8ATascam64Stable$1,227€1,099$1,227€1,099Check ↗
- 21
Behringer MX882 V2Behringer63Stable$95€85$95€85Check ↗
- 22
TASCAM MZ-223 Zone MixerMZ-223 · Tascam60Stable$512€459$512€459Check ↗
- 23
Sonifex Redbox RB-SS10Sonifex58Stable$1,450€1,299$1,450€1,299Check ↗
- 24
Tascam MA-BT240Tascam57Stable$592€530$592€530Check ↗
- 25
Behringer RX1602 V2Behringer55Stable$97€87$97€87Check ↗
- 26
Yamaha MG16XU 16 Channel Analog MixerMG16XU Case Bundle · Yamaha48Stable$758€679$758€679Check ↗
- 27
Yamaha MG20XU 20 Channel Analog MixerMG20 XU Case Bundle · Yamaha45Stable$1,048€939$1,048€939Check ↗
19'' Rack Mixers by the numbers
Measured across all 27 models we track, not a sample.
Median $344 — half of all 19'' rack mixers here cost less.
median of 19 models · 19"–19"
median of 24 models · 1.7 kg–3.4 kg
How to choose the best 19'' rack mixers
EQ Flexibility
Beyond just bass, mids, and treble, you'll want some decent sweepable mids for dialing in that fat midrange honk, and enough bands to address problem frequencies without making things worse. A parametric EQ on at least a couple of channels is a real plus.
Aux Sends & Returns
This is where the serious mixing starts. You need at least 4 aux sends for monitor mixes, effects sends, or creating submixes for drums or vocals. Post-fader sends are critical for maintaining consistent levels.
Routing Options
Being able to route signals to subgroups, internal effects, or external processors opens up a world of possibilities. Look for a mixer with flexible routing matrix - it'll save you headaches down the road.
Preamp Quality
Rack mixers often have better preamps than smaller consoles. Listen for clean gain, low noise floor, and a preamp voicing that complements your instruments. A muddy preamp will bury your low-end thump, while a harsh one will suck the life out of acoustic guitars.
Build Quality & Reliability
Gigs happen. Rehearsals get loud. You need a mixer that can take a beating. Check for solid construction, robust faders, and a power supply that can handle voltage fluctuations - you don't want it dying mid-set.
Buying guide
So, you're leveling up from a small mixer and thinking about a 19-inch rack unit? Smart move. It's a big step up in headroom and routing options, but it also brings a new layer of complexity. This isn't a simple plug-and-play deal - you're entering a world of aux sends, subgroups, and potentially, a whole lot more menu diving. Let's break down which rack mixers are actually gonna serve an intermediate player, not just look impressive in a photo.
Don't get seduced by channel count alone. More isn't always better - a complex mixer you don't understand is useless. Look for a mixer with a clear, logical layout and a manageable feature set.
Solid-state preamps are generally cleaner than tube preamps, but tube preamps can add a nice warmth if that's your thing (be prepared to pay extra). Be wary of mixers that skimp on the EQ - a muddy or overly bright EQ will ruin your mix.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 27 19'' rack mixers from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between a 'line' and 'mic' input?
Mic inputs have a preamp that boosts the signal, and typically provide phantom power for condenser mics. Line inputs are for signals that are already at a suitable level, like from a keyboard or another mixer.
I've heard about 'post-fader' aux sends - why are they important?
Post-fader sends take their signal after the channel fader. This means monitor mixes stay consistent even as you adjust the main mix levels. Crucial for keeping a drummer happy.
What does 'headroom' mean, and why should I care?
Headroom is the amount of signal you can push a mixer before it starts to distort. More headroom means cleaner sound at higher volumes - essential for gigs and recording.
Are rack mixers really worth the money compared to a good desktop mixer?
Rack mixers offer significantly better routing, preamps, and often, more reliable build quality. If you're serious about recording or gigging regularly, the investment is worth it, but it's a bigger learning curve.
What's the deal with subgroups? Do I need them?
Subgroups let you process multiple channels as a single unit - great for drums, backing vocals, or anything you want to treat as a cohesive group. Not strictly needed, but they'll simplify your workflow and give you more control.
