AudioFu Chart · November 2026

Best Analogue Mixing Desks for Intermediate 2026

The top pick is Behringer Xenyx X2222USB 22-Input Mixer with USB Interface ($261). SSL SiX leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 28 models across 10 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: November 1, 2026

28models in this chart
10brands
$669median price
4price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All Analogue Mixing Desks Showing: For Intermediate · clear

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

  1. Behringer Xenyx X2222USB 22-Input Mixer with USB Interface

    Xenyx X2222USB · Behringer

    10 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann

    • Size19"
    • Weight4.78 kg

    The Xenyx X2222USB is a surprisingly capable mixer, great for project studios, small bands, or anyone needing a lot of inputs on a budget. It’s a solid starting point for learning mixing techniques, though experienced engineers might find its limitations eventually.

    Pros

    • 22 channels offer surprising flexibility for smaller setups
    • Xenyx preamps are surprisingly clean for the price bracket
    • Comprehensive effects unit adds creative options without external gear

    Cons

    • Build quality feels plasticky; not as robust as higher-end consoles
    • USB interface lacks advanced routing capabilities
    78AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand65
    • Lineup100
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$261 now
    $261€234 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  2. PreSonus StudioLive AR12c 14-Input Mixer / Digital Recorder / Audio…

    StudioLive AR12c · Presonus

    36 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Weight5.4 kg

    The AR12c is a seriously useful little mixer, especially for singer-songwriters, podcasters, or small bands needing a simple, all-in-one solution. It's got a surprisingly capable USB interface and the SD card recorder is a real time-saver for capturing ideas on the fly – a great entry point into more complex recording setups.

    Pros

    • Excellent class-A mic preamps deliver clean, low-noise performance.
    • The integrated USB interface simplifies recording directly to your computer.
    • Super Channel offers flexible input routing for diverse sources.

    Cons

    • EQ is basic; lacks the finesse of more premium consoles.
    • Build quality is adequate, but the chassis feels somewhat plasticky.
    69AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand97
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs50
    • Maker56
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$524 now
    $524€469 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  3. PreSonus StudioLive AR8c 8-Input Mixer / Digital Recorder / Audio…

    StudioLive AR8c · Presonus

    23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Weight3.2 kg

    The AR8c is a seriously handy little mixer for songwriters, podcasters, and small bands. It’s got a built-in USB interface for easy recording and that SD card recorder is a game-changer for capturing ideas on the fly. It’s a great value proposition if you need a compact, feature-rich solution without needing a massive console.

    Pros

    • Excellent class-A preamps deliver clean, low-noise recordings.
    • The integrated SD card recorder provides reliable standalone recording.
    • Bluetooth 5.0 offers convenient wireless audio input options.

    Cons

    • EQ is basic; lacks the precision of more advanced consoles.
    • Limited headroom on the master bus can cause clipping at higher levels.
    65AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand86
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs50
    • Maker56
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$435 now
    $435€389 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  4. PreSonus StudioLive AR16c 18-Input Mixer / Digital Recorder / Audio…

    StudioLive AR16c · Presonus

    20 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Weight6.4 kg

    This mixer packs a lot into a single box. You get eighteen mic channels with good preamps and a USB interface for recording straight to your computer. It works on Mac and PC, plus it can read SD cards or play Bluetooth music. It suits anyone who wants to record vocals or instruments without needing extra gear.

    Pros

    • 18 microphone channels with class A preamps
    • 24-bit 96 kHz USB audio interface built in
    • 12 analog microphone inputs with phantom power

    Cons

    • Only two instrument inputs on the deck
    • No digital output or external digital I/O
    63AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand82
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs50
    • Maker56
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$669 now
    $669€599 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  5. SSL SiX

    SSL

    30 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    The SSL SiX is a seriously cool piece for anyone wanting that classic SSL sound on a smaller scale. It’s fantastic for singer-songwriters, podcasters, and smaller studios needing a professional summing and mixing solution without the massive footprint. That G-series compressor alone is worth the price of admission.

    Pros

    • SuperAnalogue preamps deliver SSL's signature warmth and clarity
    • G Series bus compressor adds punch and glue to mixes
    • Compact size makes it ideal for smaller studios and mobile setups

    Cons

    • Limited channel count restricts larger recording projects
    • EQ is a 2-band design, lacking the flexibility of more complex consoles
    63AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand92
    • Lineup50
    • Price63
    • Specs0
    • Maker65
    ↓ 4.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $1,272 · Aug 17$1,216 now
    $1,216€1,088 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  6. Mackie Onyx12 12-Channel Analog Mixer with Multitrack USB

    Onyx12 · Mackie

    40 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    The Onyx12 is a solid, feature-packed mixer perfect for singer-songwriters, small bands, or podcasters who need a versatile all-in-one solution. It’s got a good clean sound, surprisingly useful effects, and the SD card recording is a huge time-saver for quick demos and live tracking. It’s a great value for the feature set.

    Pros

    • Mackie’s Onyx mic preamps deliver surprisingly clean, low-noise performance.
    • Parametric mids on the first four channels offer excellent tonal sculpting.
    • The built-in effects processor is surprisingly versatile and usable, a real bonus.

    Cons

    • The plastic case feels a little budget-oriented compared to fully metal desks.
    • Limited aux sends restrict more complex routing scenarios for larger productions.
    62AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand100
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs0
    • Maker44
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$553 now
    $553€495 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  7. Mackie Onyx24 24-Channel Analog Mixer with Multitrack USB

    Onyx24 · Mackie

    33 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    The Onyx24 is a solid, all-in-one console for smaller studios and bands needing a good number of inputs and some basic recording options. It’s particularly well-suited for singer-songwriters or smaller ensembles looking for a compact, feature-rich mixing solution with decent preamps and a convenient SD card backup.

    Pros

    • Onyx mic preamps deliver a surprisingly clean, low-noise sound
    • Parametric mids on the first 14 channels offer precise tonal shaping
    • SD card recording provides a convenient backup and standalone option

    Cons

    • Build quality, while decent, feels a bit plasticky for the price point
    • The integrated effects processor is serviceable, but not a replacement for dedicated units
    60AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand95
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs0
    • Maker44
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$915 now
    $915€819 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  8. Behringer X1832USB 18-Input 3 2-Bus Mixer XENYX

    Xenyx X1832USB · Behringer

    6 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"
    • Weight4.64 kg

    The Xenyx X1832USB is a great entry point for home recording or small band setups. It packs a ton of features – compressors on every channel, built-in effects – for a surprisingly affordable price, making it ideal for beginners and budget-conscious musicians looking for a flexible mixer.

    Pros

    • Solid build for the price, surprisingly robust metal chassis
    • Mic preamps offer usable gain, decent clean headroom
    • Comprehensive feature set: compressors, FX, subgroups, USB

    Cons

    • EQ is basic; lacks precision for nuanced mixing
    • Plastic faders feel cheap, prone to wear with heavy use
    63AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand52
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$248 now
    $248€222 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  9. TASCAM Model 16 Multitrack Recorder / Mixer / Audio Interface

    Model 16 · Tascam

    7 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Weight7 kg

    The Tascam Model 16 is a clever all-in-one solution, blending a compact analog mixer with a multi-track recorder and audio interface. It's a fantastic option for singer-songwriters, podcasters, and smaller bands who want a streamlined, portable recording setup without sacrificing essential mixing features – it’s a real space saver without compromising functionality.

    Pros

    • Solid build quality with robust metal chassis for reliable use.
    • Integrated recorder eliminates need for separate multi-track setup.
    • Flexible EQ with tunable mids provides detailed tonal shaping.

    Cons

    • Limited aux sends restrict complex routing options.
    • Compact size may feel cramped for users accustomed to larger consoles.
    53AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand56
    • Lineup50
    • Price68
    • Specs50
    • Maker28
    ↓ 6.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $932 · Aug 17$876 now
    $876€784 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  10. Behringer Xenyx X2442 USB

    Behringer

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"
    • Weight5.9 kg

    The Xenyx X2442 USB is a surprisingly capable mixer for project studios and smaller bands. It's got a decent feature set for the price, and the built-in effects are a nice bonus. Perfect for singer-songwriters or bands needing a compact, all-in-one solution for recording and live use.

    Pros

    • 10 mic preamps with phantom power offer versatile recording options
    • Parametric mids on EQ provide precise tonal shaping
    • Built-in effects unit adds creative possibilities without extra hardware

    Cons

    • Plastic construction feels less robust than higher-end consoles
    • USB interface is basic, limiting advanced routing capabilities
    54AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$269 now
    $269€241 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

All 28 analogue mixing desks

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

  1. 11
    Midas DM16 16-Input Analog MixerDM16 · Midas
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$323€289
    $323€289Check ↗
  2. 12
    Behringer Xenyx X1622USB 16-Input MixerXenyx X1622USB · Behringer
    Index 60Stable
    60
    Stable$218€195
    $218€195Check ↗
  3. 13
    SSL SiX Decksaver BundleSSL
    Index 27↓ 3.8%
    27
    ↓ 3.8%$1,257€1,125
    $1,257€1,125Check ↗
  4. 14
    Behringer Xenyx X1204 USBBehringer · 2 finishes
    Index 60Stable
    60
    Stable$178€159
    $178€159Check ↗
  5. 15
    SSL Big SiXSSL
    Index 64Stable
    64
    Stable$2,155€1,929
    $2,155€1,929Check ↗
  6. 16
    Behringer Xenyx X1222 USB BundleBehringer
    Index 33Stable
    33
    Stable$230€206
    $230€206Check ↗
  7. 17
    Behringer Xenyx 1204USBBehringer
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$154€138
    $154€138Check ↗
  8. 18
    Behringer Xenyx 1204USB BundleBehringer
    Index 33Stable
    33
    Stable$207€185
    $207€185Check ↗
  9. 19
    D&R Airmate USB Radio ProductionD&R
    Index 50↑ 4.2%
    50
    ↑ 4.2%$2,792€2,499
    $2,792€2,499Check ↗
  10. 20
    Chandler Limited TG Serie Mini Rack MixerChandler Limited
    Index 44↑ 6.5%
    44
    ↑ 6.5%$11,897€10,649
    $11,897€10,649Check ↗
  11. 21
    Neve 8424 Manual FaderNeve
    Index 41Stable
    41
    Stable$32,398€28,999
    $32,398€28,999Check ↗
  12. 22
    Neve 8424 Motor FaderNeve
    Index 41Stable
    41
    Stable$37,984€33,999
    $37,984€33,999Check ↗
  13. 23
    API Audio The Box IIAPI Audio
    Index 40Stable
    40
    Stable$23,673€21,190
    $23,673€21,190Check ↗
  14. 24
    D&R WebstationD&R
    Index 38↓ 3.5%
    38
    ↓ 3.5%$1,563€1,399
    $1,563€1,399Check ↗
  15. 25
    D&R Airence Expansion Unit MKIID&R
    Index 33↑ 8.0%
    33
    ↑ 8.0%$2,109€1,888
    $2,109€1,888Check ↗
  16. 26
    D&R Airlite MKIID&R
    Index 33↑ 8.3%
    33
    ↑ 8.3%$2,904€2,599
    $2,904€2,599Check ↗
  17. 27
    D&R Airence USB Main Unit MKIID&R
    Index 32↑ 10.7%
    32
    ↑ 10.7%$3,462€3,099
    $3,462€3,099Check ↗
  18. 28
    SSL Big SiX Decksaver BundleSSL
    Index 26Stable
    26
    Stable$2,177€1,949
    $2,177€1,949Check ↗

Analogue Mixing Desks by the numbers

Measured across all 31 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $669 — half of all analogue mixing desks here cost less.

2
10
4
4
6
1
1
3
<$200$200–400$400–750$750–1.5k$1.5k–3k$3k–7.5k$7.5k–15k$15k+
Size19"

median of 13 models · 19"–19"

Weight4.78 kg

median of 24 models · 2.8 kg–40.8 kg

How to choose the best analogue mixing desks

EQ Flexibility

You're past basic tone shaping. You need a decent EQ section - not necessarily a full parametric, but something with enough bands to address muddiness, harshness, or lack of clarity without sounding brittle. Look for a musical mid-band boost; that 'fat midrange honk' is key for vocals and guitars.

Preamp Character

This is where the analogue mojo lives. Different desks have different sonic signatures - some are clean and transparent, others have a subtle warmth, and some just break up in a pleasing way. Think about what you're recording and whether you need that added color.

Routing & Aux Sends

More than just stereo out. Aux sends are crucial for creating reverb and delay sends, monitor mixes for tracking, and parallel processing. A decent number of aux sends (at least 4-8) opens up a lot of creative possibilities.

Channel Density & Playability

How many channels do you really need? More isn't always better. A desk that's too complex becomes a hindrance. Consider the layout - are the knobs logically placed? Is the fader throw comfortable? Does it feel intuitive to use under pressure?

Noise Floor & Headroom

A quiet desk is a good desk. Excessive noise is fatiguing and makes mixing harder. Headroom is about how much you can push the preamps before they distort unpleasantly - important for drums and anything needing some grit.

Buying guide

Alright, so you're past the basic interface and a USB audio thing, and you're craving the feel and sonic character of an analogue mixing desk. Smart move. But jumping straight to a massive SSL clone is overkill - and a budget-buster. This guide is for the intermediate player who wants that 'real' console vibe without getting lost in a sea of knobs and features they won't use, or blowing their recording fund.

Don't chase the biggest name. Many smaller manufacturers are building solid, characterful desks that offer excellent value. Be realistic about your needs; a 12-channel desk is plenty for most intermediate setups.

Watch out for desks with cheap pots - scratchy knobs are a pain. And remember, a decent power conditioner is a worthwhile investment to minimize noise and hum.

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 31 analogue mixing desks 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 'clean' and a 'colored' preamp?

A 'clean' preamp aims for transparency - it amplifies the signal without adding much of its own character. A 'colored' preamp introduces harmonic distortion and saturation, which can add warmth, grit, or a vintage vibe. It's about taste and the source material.

I'm recording mostly acoustic instruments. Do I need a desk with lots of EQ?

Not necessarily a ton of bells and whistles, but a good high-pass filter is essential for cleaning up low-end rumble. A decent mid-band EQ can help acoustic guitars cut through a mix without sounding harsh.

What's the deal with headroom? Is more always better?

More headroom means you can push the preamps harder before they distort. It's great for drums and guitars needing some saturation, but if you're recording clean vocals, you might prefer a little less headroom for a warmer sound.

Can I use a smaller analogue desk with my digital audio workstation (DAW)?

Absolutely! It's a common workflow. Use the desk for tracking and mixing, then transfer your audio to your DAW for editing and mastering. The analogue warmth really shines when combined with digital precision.

I'm on a tight budget. What corners are typically cut on cheaper desks?

Often, it's the quality of the pots (knobs), the preamps (less hand-selected components), and the power supply (leading to more noise). The build quality might also be lighter - less robust overall.

Related charts

#1 · AudioFu Index 78Behringer Xenyx X2222USB 22-Input Mixer with USB Interface · $261€234
Check price ↗
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