AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 19'' Rack Mixers Under $500 2026
The top pick is ART MX821s 8-Channel Line Mixer with Stereo Outputs ($297). Behringer MX882 V2 gives you the most for the money at $95. Alesis MultiMix 10 Wireless Rackmount 10-Channel Mixer with Bluetooth leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 17 models across 7 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
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 ↗ -
- 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 ↗ -
Alesis MultiMix 10 Wireless Rackmount 10-Channel Mixer with Bluetooth
Multimix 10 Wireless · Alesis
14 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
This is a 19-inch rack mixer with Bluetooth, so it suits bars, mobile racks and studios. It has four mono inputs that take jack or XLR cables, with phantom power and TRS inserts, plus two stereo channels for jack inputs. Channels 9 and 10 pick up audio from any Bluetooth capable device, which makes it handy if you want to mix live sources and playback in one compact unit.
Pros
- Four mono channels accept 6.3 mm jack or XLR inputs with phantom power
- Channels 9 and 10 receive audio from any Bluetooth capable playback device
- Compact 3 RU, 19-inch rack format suits bars, mobile racks and studios
Cons
- Only two stereo channels, so mixing many playback sources at once is limited
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- Size19"
- Weight1.7 kg
The MX882 V2 is a seriously clever little rack unit if you need flexible signal routing – think live loops, sending signals to multiple amps, or acting as a basic submixer. It's a no-frills solution for gigging musicians and small venues who need a versatile splitter/mixer on a budget.
Pros
- Flexible routing options for complex signal chains.
- Solid, if basic, 19-inch rackmount chassis for portability.
- Provides a cost-effective DI box alternative for multiple sources.
Cons
- Plastic construction feels budget-oriented and potentially fragile.
- Limited EQ capabilities; no per-channel EQ controls.
All 17 19'' rack mixers
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Behringer ZMX8210 V2 UltrazoneBehringer63Stable$122€109$122€109Check ↗
- 12
ART MX622BTART62Stable$344€308$344€308Check ↗
- 13
DAP-Audio IMIX-7.1DAP-Audio57Stable$345€309$345€309Check ↗
- 14
Behringer RX1602 V2Behringer55Stable$97€87$97€87Check ↗
- 15
Behringer RX1202FX V2Behringer55Stable$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 16
Swissonic ZM 4Swissonic51Stable$218€195$218€195Check ↗
- 17
LAB Gruppen CM41LAB Gruppen51Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
19'' Rack Mixers by the numbers
Measured across all 17 models we track, not a sample.
Median $297 — half of all 19'' rack mixers here cost less.
median of 13 models · 19"–19"
median of 14 models · 1.7 kg–2.95 kg
How to choose the best 19'' rack mixers
EQ
At this price point, expect basic 3-band EQ on most channels. Don't expect surgical precision or a mid-sweep that'll give you that fat midrange honk. It'll be more about general tonal shaping, and the quality of those bands will vary - listen for harshness or muddiness.
Preamp Cleanliness
Low-cost preamps can be noisy or muddy. We're looking for something that doesn't introduce excessive hiss or coloration. A little bit of character can be cool, but transparency is generally preferred, especially for vocals and acoustic instruments.
Headroom/Dynamic Range
This is where budget mixers often fall short. You'll likely encounter breakup sooner than on a higher-end console, especially when pushing levels. It's a trade-off - you get more channels, but less clean headroom.
Build Quality
Plastic cases and flimsy faders are common. Look for something that feels reasonably solid, even if it's not built like a tank. It's going to take some abuse on the road.
Aux Sends/Returns
These are crucial for effects and monitor mixes. Limited aux sends are a real pain, especially for bands with multiple vocalists or instruments needing dedicated monitoring.
Buying guide
So, you need a rack mixer for gigs or tracking but you're staring down a tight budget - under $500. It's a tricky spot, because you're not going to get a full-featured flagship console, but there are some surprisingly capable units out there that won't leave you feeling like you're completely sacrificing sound or functionality. We're focusing on 19-inch rackmount mixers, the kind that fit into your rig and look professional - not a desktop unit. Let's find you something that works.
Realistically, you're making compromises here. Don't expect pristine sound or a ton of features. Focus on functionality - how many channels do you really need?
Prioritize clean preamps and decent EQ over fancy routing options you won't use. Spend a little more on a unit with reliable power supplies; a flaky power section can ruin a gig faster than anything.
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 17 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
Can I use this for recording professional vocals?
It's possible, but be realistic. You'll want to be very careful with gain staging to minimize noise and distortion. A dedicated preamp is often better for critical vocal tracks, but it can work in a pinch.
What about phantom power for condenser mics?
Most rack mixers in this range offer phantom power, but double-check the specs. Also, be aware that cheaper phantom power can sometimes introduce noise or instability.
How much noise can I expect?
Some noise is inevitable. Listen closely for hiss or hum. Anything above a noticeable hiss is a red flag, especially when gain staging.
Are these mixers reliable for live gigs?
They can be, but treat them with respect. Avoid pushing the levels too hard and protect them from physical damage. A good power conditioner is also a smart investment.
Can I connect this to my DAW?
Most will have main outputs for that, but some may lack dedicated insert sends/returns for routing individual channels to your interface. Check the I/O carefully.
