Best Analogue mixers for Live Sound 2026
Alright, so you're looking for an analogue mixer for live sound? Forget the digital hype for a minute - sometimes you just need that raw, tactile feel and the reliable sonic character of a good ol' analogue board. We've all been there, wrestling with flaky software or chasing phantom latency. This isn't about bedroom recording; this is about getting your band to cut through the noise at a bar gig or a festival stage.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
⚡ The best analogue mixers in 2026 are Dynacord CMS600-3 (top pick), Allen & Heath WZ4 16:2 for tighter budgets, and Allen & Heath WZ4 14:4:2 for pros — selected from 15 options across 7 brands, priced $226–$2,502, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
PRICE RANGES:
Under $50
Under $100
Under $200
Under $300
Under $500
Under $800
Under $1,000
Under $2,000
GENRES & STYLES:
For Live Sound
#1
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
4/10
Dynacord CMS600-3
by
Dynacord
Size
19"
Weight
6 kg
Simple Setup
Rehearsal
Small Venues
Key Feature:
The CMS600-3 is a solid, no-frills mixer perfect for smaller bands, DJs, or venues needing a reliable core mixing solution. Dynacord's reputation for build quality shines through, and the built-in effects are a nice bonus for those wanting a little extra flavor without external gear. It's a workhorse mixer – simple, dependable, and ready for gigging.
PROS
- • Solid Dynacord build quality; feels robust and dependable
- • Versatile 6 mic/line channels handle diverse sound sources well
- • Integrated effects unit offers a surprising range of usable sounds
- • Compact size allows for rack mounting, saving valuable space
CONS
- • Limited channel count may restrict complex routing needs
- • Aux sends offer basic functionality, not advanced routing options
- • USB interface is functional but lacks advanced features like MIDI
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 297387
$2,352
#2
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Allen & Heath WZ4 16:2
Size
19"
Weight
13 kg
Budget Conscious
Rehearsal
Small Venues
Key Feature:
The WZ4 16:2 is a seriously capable analogue mixer, perfect for smaller bands, live sound reinforcement, or even a well-equipped home studio. It’s got that classic Allen & Heath sound – warm, reliable, and versatile – without the complexity of a digital board. A great choice if you want a hands-on mixing experience and don’t need a ton of bells and whistles.
PROS
- • Solid build quality with robust metal chassis and reliable Allen & Heath pots
- • Flexible aux sends offer versatile routing for monitors and effects
- • Parametric mids in the EQ provide precise tonal shaping capabilities
- • Direct outs per channel are a huge boon for recording and live multitracking
CONS
- • Limited headroom compared to more modern, higher-powered mixers
- • The internal effects processor is serviceable but lacks advanced editing options
- • Rackmount ears are an optional extra, adding to the overall investment
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 319409
$1,969
#3
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Allen & Heath WZ4 14:4:2
Size
19"
Weight
12.5 kg
Band
Small Venues
Simple Setup
Key Feature:
This mixer handles big rooms well with fourteen channels and solid EQ on each input. It switches between front of house and monitor modes so you can run two shows from one rack. It fits in any standard 19-inch rack space.
PROS
- • 14 mono inputs with built-in 4-band EQ on every channel
- • Flexible 2 operating modes for front of house and monitor use
- • 6 programmable AUX paths with selectable pre or post fader routing
- • Rotatable connection panel for easy cable management
CONS
- • No external effects processor built into the mixer body
- • Weight is not listed in the provided manufacturer description
- • Only 2 stereo inputs compared to 14 mono inputs for flexibility
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 319408
$1,876
Soundcraft FX 16 II
by
Soundcraft
Size
19"
Weight
8.5 kg
Small Venues
Rehearsal
Budget Conscious
Key Feature:
The FX 16 II is a workhorse mixer, perfect for smaller bands, DJs, or venues needing a reliable rackmount solution. It delivers decent Soundcraft sound and those Lexicon effects are a real bonus – a surprisingly capable unit for the price point. It's a great value for what you get.
PROS
- • Solid Soundcraft build quality; feels robust and reliable.
- • Lexicon effects provide surprisingly good reverb and delay.
- • Compact 19in rackmount saves valuable space in mobile setups.
- • Versatile aux sends handle monitor mixes and effects sends effectively.
CONS
- • EQ is basic; lacks the finesse of higher-end consoles.
- • Limited headroom at higher gain settings; can get noisy.
- • Mono inputs only; no XLR inputs on stereo channels.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 117908
$914
Allen & Heath ZED-14 Bundle
Size
19"
Weight
7.5 kg
Live Sound
Simple Setup
Small Venues
Key Feature:
The ZED-14 is a seriously capable little mixer – perfect for gigging musicians, small bands, or anyone needing a flexible and affordable front-of-house solution. Allen & Heath’s renowned preamps shine here, providing a surprisingly high-quality sound, and the compact design makes it easy to transport. It's a workhorse for a great price.
PROS
- • DuoPre preamps deliver genuinely clean, powerful gain for vocals/instruments
- • Compact 14-channel format offers surprising flexibility for small to medium gigs
- • Solid build quality – feels robust for a mixer in this class; rack mountable
- • Aux sends provide versatile routing options for monitors and effects loops
CONS
- • EQ is basic 3-band; lacks the finesse of more premium consoles
- • Limited headroom at higher gain settings; can get noisy pushing it hard
- • USB functionality is basic – primarily for stereo I/O, not advanced routing
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 257847
$578
Allen & Heath ZED-14
Size
19"
Weight
7.5 kg
Small Venues
Band
Rehearsal
Key Feature:
The ZED-14 is a seriously capable little mixer. It's perfect for smaller bands, solo artists, or anyone needing a reliable and affordable solution for live sound or basic recording. The preamps punch above their weight, and the layout is intuitive, making it a joy to use.
PROS
- • DuoPre preamps deliver a surprisingly clean and powerful sound.
- • Compact size makes it highly portable for gigs and rehearsals.
- • Solid build quality; feels robust despite its smaller footprint.
- • Flexible aux sends offer creative routing options for monitors and effects.
CONS
- • EQ is basic; lacks the precision of more expensive mixers.
- • Limited headroom at higher gain settings can introduce noise.
- • Lack of motorized faders hinders complex, recallable mixes.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 137330
$502
Behringer Xenyx X2442 USB Case Bundle
by
Behringer
Size
19"
Weight
5.9 kg
Band
Small Venues
Rehearsal
Key Feature:
This Xenyx X2442 is a great value for bands or small venues needing a compact, feature-rich mixer. It’s a workhorse for live sound and basic recording, especially if you’re on a budget and need a decent number of inputs. Just be aware of the preamps' noise floor – it's not a studio-grade solution.
PROS
- • 24 channels offer excellent routing flexibility for complex setups
- • Built-in effects unit provides usable reverb and delay options
- • Solid 60mm faders offer surprisingly precise control
- • Rack mountable design enhances portability and stability
CONS
- • Xenyx preamps are noisy; not ideal for critical recording
- • Plastic construction feels somewhat flimsy for frequent transport
- • USB interface lacks advanced routing or control options
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 257859
$370
DAP-Audio IMIX-6.2
by
DAP-Audio
Size
19"
Weight
2.6 kg
Budget Conscious
Live Sound
Small Venues
Key Feature:
The IMIX-6.2 is a surprisingly capable fixed-installation mixer. It’s a good budget-friendly option for small venues, bars, or restaurants needing basic mixing and Bluetooth connectivity—perfect if you need a simple, rack-mountable solution and aren’t chasing audiophile-grade sound.
PROS
- • Solid build quality for the price point; feels surprisingly robust.
- • Integrated Bluetooth is convenient for background music or announcements.
- • Dual-zone output provides flexible routing for different areas.
- • Microphone reverb adds a touch of polish to vocal performances.
CONS
- • EQ control is basic; lacks precision for critical mixing.
- • Limited aux sends restrict complex routing possibilities.
- • Rackmount format is restrictive; not ideal for portable setups.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 610209
$365
Behringer Xenyx X2222 USB Bundle
by
Behringer
Size
19"
Weight
4.78 kg
Small Venues
Budget Conscious
Band
Key Feature:
The Xenyx X2222 USB is a solid entry-level mixer, perfect for small bands, home recording setups, or podcasting. It’s packed with features like a built-in USB interface and effects, making it a great value for the price, although don’t expect studio-grade sonic performance.
PROS
- • Solid build for the price, feels surprisingly robust.
- • Comprehensive feature set for a budget-friendly mixer.
- • USB interface simplifies recording and playback directly.
- • Phantom power allows for condenser microphone use.
CONS
- • Xenyx preamps are noisy, especially at higher gain.
- • EQ is basic, lacks precision for nuanced tonal shaping.
- • Plastic faders feel cheap and may exhibit wear over time.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 310701
$347
Behringer Xenyx X1222 USB Case Bundle
by
Behringer
Size
19"
Weight
3.7 kg
Band
Simple Setup
Small Venues
Key Feature:
The Xenyx X1222 USB bundle is a surprisingly capable little mixer, perfect for solo performers, small bands, or anyone needing basic recording functionality. It’s a budget-friendly way to get a decent number of inputs and some essential features, though don’t expect premium sonic performance. It’s a solid workhorse for gigging and simple studio setups.
PROS
- • Solid build quality for the price; feels surprisingly robust.
- • The integrated USB interface is genuinely useful for basic recording.
- • 7-band master EQ offers more shaping than typical entry-level mixers.
- • Phantom power is a huge plus for condenser mics – expands input options.
CONS
- • EQ isn't the most transparent; can introduce some coloration.
- • Faders feel a bit plasticky and less precise than higher-end models.
- • The built-in effects are serviceable, but not studio-grade.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 257843
$284
Behringer Xenyx X1222USB
by
Behringer
Size
19"
Weight
3.7 kg
Budget Conscious
Live Sound
Small Venues
Key Feature:
The Xenyx X1222USB is a surprisingly capable little mixer, perfect for singer-songwriters, small bands, or anyone needing basic recording capabilities on a budget. The integrated USB interface and built-in effects make it an all-in-one solution for simple setups, though don't expect studio-grade performance.
PROS
- • Solid build for the price, feels surprisingly robust for a budget mixer
- • Xenyx preamps offer a usable, warm character for basic vocal and instrument recording
- • Built-in effects are a nice bonus, surprisingly decent for simple reverb/delay
- • USB interface simplifies recording and playback directly to a computer
CONS
- • EQ isn't exceptionally detailed; lacks the finesse of higher-end consoles
- • Plastic case feels a bit cheap; not as durable as metal-cased alternatives
- • Phantom power can be noisy with some microphones; requires careful gain staging
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 243146
$226
#12
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Allen & Heath ZED-428
Weight
21 kg
Live Sound
Small Venues
Simple Setup
Key Feature:
The ZED-428 is a serious analogue workhorse. Its clean preamps and flexible routing make it perfect for recording studios, live sound reinforcement for medium-sized venues, or even a complex home setup where you want tactile control and a warm, analogue sound. It's a premium-priced mixer that delivers professional results.
PROS
- • DuoPre preamps offer exceptional clarity and headroom for dynamic sources.
- • Robust, all-metal chassis inspires confidence and longevity.
- • Semi-parametric EQ provides precise tonal shaping capabilities.
- • Flexible routing options with sub-groups and matrix outputs enhance workflow.
CONS
- • Size and weight make it less ideal for mobile or smaller spaces.
- • Lacks built-in effects, requiring external processing for reverb/delay.
- • Limited USB functionality compared to more modern digital mixers.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 150866
$2,502
#13
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Tascam Model 2400
by
Tascam
Weight
14 kg
Band
Live Sound
Simple Setup
Key Feature:
The Model 2400 is a clever hybrid – a powerful analogue mixer with a built-in recorder and USB interface. It's an excellent choice for bands and songwriters who want a streamlined workflow, combining the feel of a classic console with modern digital connectivity. This is especially appealing for those wanting to capture a live band performance without a huge outboard rack.
PROS
- • Ultra HDDA preamps deliver a clean, transparent, and surprisingly warm sound.
- • Integrated 24-track recorder simplifies workflow, reducing external gear needs.
- • HUI/MCU DAW control offers precise, tactile integration with your digital setup.
- • Loop-in paths on channels provide flexible routing for effects and external processors.
CONS
- • The build quality, while solid, uses mostly metal but some plastic components feel a bit budget.
- • The 1-knob compressor is convenient but lacks the nuanced control of dedicated units.
- • The weight makes it less ideal for portable or mobile recording setups.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 596800
$2,317
#14
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
4/10
Dynacord CMS1000-3
by
Dynacord
Size
19"
Rehearsal
Small Venues
Live Sound
Key Feature:
The CMS1000-3 is a solid, no-nonsense mixer geared towards touring sound engineers and rental houses needing a reliable workhorse. It's got a great feature set for the price point and Dynacord’s reputation for build quality shines through. Perfect for bands needing flexible routing and a clean, professional sound without the complexity of a massive console.
PROS
- • Robust metal chassis ensures long-term reliability and road-worthiness
- • Parametric mid-band EQ offers precise tonal sculpting capabilities
- • Dynacord's effects are surprisingly clean and usable, a real bonus
- • Comprehensive aux sends simplify complex monitor and effects routing
CONS
- • The 19-inch rack format can be restrictive for smaller setups
- • Lacks dedicated USB audio monitoring controls on the mixer itself
- • Limited headroom compared to higher-end consoles in demanding scenarios
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 260699
$2,270
#15
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Boredbrain Music Xcelon SL
Weight
2.21 kg
Budget Conscious
Rehearsal
Live Sound
Key Feature:
This mixer feels like a real tool because its analogue path sounds natural and warm. The low-noise inputs handle microphones well, and the saturation feature gives vocals a nice punch. It fits bands needing reliable mixing without digital clutter, though you should check the weight before moving it around.
PROS
- • Fully analogue signal path keeps sound pure
- • Low-noise inputs handle mic signals cleanly
- • Switchable drive mode adds useful saturation
- • Tilt-EQ with optional MID mode shapes tone
CONS
- • No specified weight makes portability unknown
- • Phantom power capability is not mentioned
- • Price is high compared to basic mixers
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 644762
$2,259
Every analogue mixers that matches
141 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Tascam Model 24 | Weight 10.4 kg | $1,309 |
| 17 | Mackie 1604 VLZ4 | Weight 9.1 kg | $1,042 |
| 18 | Mackie 1642 VLZ4 Case Bundle | Weight 8.3 kg | $938 |
| 19 | Yamaha MG20 XU | Weight 7.1 kg | $914 |
| 20 | Allen & Heath ZED-22FX | Weight 11.5 kg | $868 |
| 21 | Intellijel Designs Jellymix | Weight 1.4 kg | $868 |
| 22 | Mackie ProFX16v3 Case Bundle | Weight 6.9 kg | $822 |
| 23 | Yamaha MG20 | Weight 6.9 kg | $810 |
| 24 | Mackie ProFX22v3 | Weight 9 kg | $809 |
| 25 | Mackie 1642 VLZ4 | Weight 8.3 kg | $782 |
| 26 | Heritage Audio Mix Buddy | Weight 1.92 kg | $752 |
| 27 | Allen & Heath ZED-16FX | Weight 8.5 kg | $737 |
| 28 | Mackie ProFX10 GO Case Bundle | Weight 2.7 kg | $666 |
| 29 | Allen & Heath ZED-12FX | Weight 7.4 kg | $643 |
| 30 | Yamaha MG16XU | Weight 6.8 kg | $608 |
| 31 | Yamaha MG12 XU Thon Case Bundle | Weight 4.2 kg | $602 |
| 32 | Yamaha MG16X | Weight 6.8 kg | $602 |
| 33 | Soundcraft EFX12 | Weight 4.6 kg | $578 |
| 34 | Mackie ProFX16v3 | Weight 6.9 kg | $567 |
| 35 | Yamaha MG16 | Weight 6.6 kg | $555 |
| 36 | Allen & Heath ZED60-14FX | Weight 4.4 kg | $539 |
| 37 | Allen & Heath ZED60-10FX | Weight 3.8 kg | $520 |
| 38 | Yamaha MG12 XU Case Bundle | Weight 4.2 kg | $497 |
| 39 | Mackie ProFX10 GO | Weight 2.7 kg | $486 |
| 40 | Yamaha MG12XUK | Weight 3 kg | $474 |
| 41 | Soundcraft EFX8 | Weight 4.6 kg | $473 |
| 42 | Mackie 1402 VLZ4 | Weight 4.5 kg | $439 |
| 43 | Yamaha MG12 XU | Weight 4.2 kg | $439 |
| 44 | Mackie ProFX12v3+ | Weight 3.6 kg | $435 |
| 45 | Soundcraft EPM12 | Weight 5.8 kg | $416 |
| 46 | Yamaha MG12X | Weight 4.2 kg | $416 |
| 47 | Behringer Xenyx QX1222USB Case Bundle | Weight 3.7 kg | $411 |
| 48 | Mackie ProFX10v3+ | Weight 2.2 kg | $404 |
| 49 | Soundcraft EPM8 | Weight 4.6 kg | $393 |
| 50 | Soundcraft EPM6 Case Bundle | Weight 4 kg | $393 |
| 51 | Yamaha MG10XUF Case Bundle | Weight 3.3 kg | $393 |
| 52 | Yamaha MG12 | Weight 4 kg | $393 |
| 53 | Mackie ProFX12v3 | Weight 3.6 kg | $377 |
| 54 | Allen & Heath ZED-10FX | Weight 3.3 kg | $370 |
| 55 | cre8audio Assembler | Weight 0.85 kg | $358 |
| 56 | Soundcraft EPM6 | Weight 4 kg | $335 |
| 57 | Yamaha MG10XUF | Weight 3.3 kg | $335 |
| 58 | Allen & Heath ZEDi-10 FX | Weight 2.3 kg | $330 |
| 59 | Behringer Xenyx QX2442USB | Weight 5.9 kg | $330 |
| 60 | Allen & Heath ZED-10 | Weight 3.3 kg | $300 |
| 61 | Behringer Xenyx QX1832USB | Weight 4.6 kg | $300 |
| 62 | Yamaha MG10 XU | Weight 2.1 kg | $300 |
| 63 | Mackie ProFX6v3+ | Weight 1.2 kg | $289 |
| 64 | Behringer Xenyx QX2222USB | Weight 4.78 kg | $271 |
| 65 | Allen & Heath ZEDi-10 | Weight 2.2 kg | $265 |
| 66 | Mackie 1202 VLZ4 | Weight 3 kg | $265 |
| 67 | Yamaha MG10X | Weight 2.1 kg | $265 |
| 68 | the t.mix xmix 1402 FXMP Case Bundle | Weight 4.7 kg | $265 |
| 69 | the t.mix xmix 1202 FXMP USB Case Bundle | Weight 4.7 kg | $265 |
| 70 | Mackie ProFX10v3 | Weight 2.2 kg | $263 |
| 71 | Yamaha MG06X Case Bundle | Weight 0.9 kg | $249 |
| 72 | Mackie MobileMix | Weight 0.8 kg | $247 |
| 73 | Mackie 802 VLZ4 | Weight 2.5 kg | $231 |
| 74 | Radial Engineering MIX2:1 | Weight 0.8 kg | $229 |
| 75 | the t.mix xmix 1402 FXMP USB | Weight 4.7 kg | $229 |
| 76 | Behringer Xenyx QX1222USB | Weight 3.7 kg | $226 |
| 77 | Yamaha MG10 | Weight 1.9 kg | $226 |
| 78 | Rolls MX 28 | Weight 490 kg | $216 |
| 79 | Behringer Xenyx QX1204USB | Weight 2.8 kg | $207 |
| 80 | Yamaha MG06X | Weight 0.9 kg | $207 |
| 81 | the t.mix xmix 802 USB Case Bundle | Weight 3.2 kg | $207 |
| 82 | the t.mix xmix 1202 FXMP USB | Weight 4.7 kg | $207 |
| 83 | Allen & Heath ZEDi-8 | Weight 1.5 kg | $196 |
| 84 | Allen & Heath ZED-6 FX | Weight 1.5 kg | $196 |
| 85 | Mackie ProFX6v3 | Weight 1.2 kg | $196 |
| 86 | Rolls MX44Pro | Weight 0.45 kg | $192 |
| 87 | Soundcraft Notepad-12FX | Weight 1.7 kg | $184 |
| 88 | the t.mix xmix 1202 FX USB | Weight 4.35 kg | $184 |
| 89 | Alto TrueMix 800FX | Weight 2.1 kg | $178 |
| 90 | the t.mix xmix 1002 FX USB | Weight 3.85 kg | $173 |
| 91 | the t.mix xmix 1202 USB | Weight 4.3 kg | $173 |
| 92 | Behringer Xenyx 1003B Case Bundle | Weight 2.1 kg | $168 |
| 93 | Behringer Xenyx 1202SFX Case Bundle | Weight 1.5 kg | $168 |
| 94 | Yamaha MG06 | Weight 0.9 kg | $155 |
| 95 | the t.mix xmix 802 USB | Weight 3.2 kg | $150 |
| 96 | Soundcraft Notepad-5 | Weight 0.62 kg | $133 |
| 97 | Allen & Heath ZED-6 | Weight 1.5 kg | $130 |
| 98 | Alto TrueMix 600 | Weight 1.4 kg | $125 |
| 99 | Behringer Xenyx 1202SFX | Weight 1.5 kg | $123 |
| 100 | Behringer Xenyx 1003B | Weight 2.1 kg | $114 |
| 101 | Behringer Xenyx 1002SFX | Weight 1.1 kg | $110 |
| 102 | Behringer Xenyx 802S | Weight 1.6 kg | $86 |
| 103 | Alto TrueMix 500 | Weight 0.9 kg | $80 |
| 104 | Behringer Xenyx 502S | Weight 1.2 kg | $63 |
| 105 | myVolts MickXer Black | Weight 0.07 kg | $23 |
| 106 | Rockboard LM 4 4-Channel Line Mixer | Size 4" | $22 |
| 107 | Dynacord CMS1600-3 | not published | $3,580 |
| 108 | Dynacord CMS2200-3 | not published | $3,243 |
| 109 | Allen & Heath WZ4 12:2 | not published | $1,563 |
| 110 | Mackie Onyx16 | not published | $717 |
| 111 | Radial Engineering Gold Digger | not published | $577 |
| 112 | Mackie Onyx8 | not published | $404 |
| 113 | Rolls MX 54s | not published | $284 |
| 114 | Midas DM12 | not published | $277 |
| 115 | Rolls MX 122 | not published | $277 |
| 116 | Bastl Instruments Bestie | not published | $272 |
| 117 | Korg Nu:Tekt NTS-4 | not published | $254 |
| 118 | Rolls MX 34C | not published | $254 |
| 119 | Rolls MX 310 | not published | $229 |
| 120 | LD Systems VIBZ 10 C | not published | $211 |
| 121 | ART Promix | not published | $180 |
| 122 | Soundcraft Notepad-8FX | not published | $168 |
| 123 | Mackie 402 VLZ4 | not published | $150 |
| 124 | Mackie Mix12FX | not published | $148 |
| 125 | Rolls MX 42 | not published | $145 |
| 126 | LD Systems VIBZ 6 | not published | $137 |
| 127 | Korg Volca Mix | not published | $133 |
| 128 | Rolls MX 51S | not published | $133 |
| 129 | Rolls MX 22s | not published | $133 |
| 130 | Rolls MX 41b | not published | $115 |
| 131 | Mackie Mix8 | not published | $114 |
| 132 | Behringer Xenyx QX602MP3 | not published | $100 |
| 133 | the t.mix mix 802 | not published | $87 |
| 134 | Mackie Mix5 | not published | $79 |
| 135 | the t.mix mix 502 | not published | $56 |
| 136 | the t.mix MicroMix 2 USB | not published | $45 |
| 137 | the t.mix MicroMix 1 USB | not published | $45 |
| 138 | Millenium Pocket Mix | not published | $34 |
| 139 | the t.mix MiniMix 22 | not published | $27 |
| 140 | IMG Stageline MMX-31 | not published | $27 |
| 141 | Behringer MX400 | not published | $18 |
Analogue mixers by the numbers
Measured across all 141 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $277
from $45 to $1,969
Weight
median 3.7 kg
from 0.85 kg to 10.4 kg · 104 models
Size
median 19"
from 4" to 19" · 13 models
How to Choose the Best Analogue mixers
1
EQ Response
Live sound demands clarity. We're looking for EQs with a predictable, musical response - not harsh boosts or scooped mids that leave your vocals buried. A good mixer should let you shape the tone without introducing unwanted artifacts or phase issues.
2
Preamp Cleanliness
The preamps are your front line. Dirty preamps introduce noise and compress the dynamic range, making your mix sound muddy and lifeless. We want clean headroom - the ability to push the gain without immediate distortion - so your instruments retain their articulation.
3
Routing Flexibility
Live sound is unpredictable. You need aux sends for monitors, subgroups for drum bussing, and plenty of ins and outs to handle whatever the gig throws at you. A mixer that locks you into a rigid routing scheme is a pain.
4
Build Quality & Reliability
Gigs aren't forgiving. A flimsy mixer with flaky knobs and unreliable power supplies is going to fail you onstage. Solid construction and robust components are non-negotiable - you need something that can take a beating.
5
Noise Floor
This is crucial. A high noise floor means you're fighting against unwanted hiss and hum, masking the subtleties of your performance. A low noise floor allows for more headroom and a cleaner, more professional sound.
Buying Guide
Don't fall for the 'more channels equals better mixer' trap. A bigger board isn't always better; it's about the quality of the components. Cheap mixers often cut corners on preamps and EQ, resulting in a muddy, compressed sound. Paying a bit more for a mixer with clean preamps and a musical EQ is an investment that'll pay off in a better-sounding mix and less frustration.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 141 analogue mixers from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
'Clean' preamps aim for transparency, reproducing the signal as accurately as possible. 'Colored' preamps introduce harmonic distortion and saturation - can be desirable for certain instruments like vocals or guitars, adding warmth or grit, but it's a stylistic choice, not always needed for live sound.
It depends on your sources, but aim for at least 20dB of headroom. This gives you plenty of space to handle dynamic peaks without clipping. Clipping sounds awful - harsh and distorted.
Pretty much. XLR mics are the standard for live sound, and phantom power makes setup a breeze. Avoid unbalanced connections like RCA - they're prone to noise and interference.
Subgroups are your secret weapon for drum bussing, creating stereo effects, or controlling the overall level of specific instrument groups. They give you much more control over your mix than individual channel faders alone.
Not really. It's more of a convenience for recording rehearsals or sending a monitor mix to an engineer. For live sound, the audio quality isn't the priority; reliability and routing are key.
