AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Digital Mixers for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Yamaha MGX12 18-Channel Digital Mixing Console ($984). Behringer WING 48-Channel Digital Mixer leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 80 models across 16 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 26, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Yamaha MGX12 18-Channel Digital Mixing Console
MGX12V WH · Yamaha
30 for sale on Reverb8 finishes at Thomann
- Size4.3"
- Weight4.66 kg
This mixer is great for small live gigs because it handles video and audio recording without extra gear. The built-in DSP makes monitoring feel natural, and the touchscreen is easy to use. However, the faders aren't motorized, so adjusting levels takes some effort. It's perfect for musicians who need a solid all-in-one solution on a budget.
Pros
- Built-in DSP ensures zero-latency monitoring for live players.
- HDMI pass-through lets you feed video to screens instantly.
- Four assignable function keys offer quick access to essential tools.
Cons
- Non-motorized faders require physical effort for precise adjustments.
- No built-in speakers mean you need external monitors for sound.
89AudioFu
Index↓ 15.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,163 · Aug 17$984 now$984€879 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size9"
- Weight6.5 kg
The DM3S is a seriously impressive piece of kit for the streamer, podcaster, or small band needing a flexible, recallable digital mixer. Its compact size and motorized faders make it surprisingly easy to use, especially for those transitioning from analog, and the included software is a nice bonus for getting started. It’s a premium-priced but highly capable solution for a focused workflow.
Pros
- Excellent touchscreen interface provides intuitive workflow and visual feedback.
- Motorized faders offer recall and precise level adjustments for complex mixes.
- Compact size and lightweight design (for a digital mixer) enhance portability.
Cons
- Limited physical connectivity compared to larger format mixers; might require external stage boxes.
- The 9” touchscreen, while good, could benefit from higher resolution for finer detail.
84AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,734 now$1,734€1,549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Soundcraft Ui24R 24-Channel Digital Mixer / USB Recorder w/ Wireless…
Ui24R Hands On Bundle · Soundcraft
29 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight5.1 kg
The Ui24R is a seriously clever little mixer – a great option for bands, small venues, or anyone needing a portable, powerful, and flexible PA system with built-in recording. The tablet control is surprisingly intuitive and the sound quality is solid, making it a real workhorse for gigging musicians and sound engineers.
Pros
- Excellent routing flexibility with integrated stage box.
- Impressive DSP suite including Lexicon reverbs and compressors.
- Dual-band Wi-Fi offers robust and reliable wireless control.
Cons
- Limited physical control surface compared to traditional mixers.
- USB-B port for interface limits connectivity options.
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$984 now$984€879 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Allen & Heath CQ-18T 16-Channel Digital Mixer
CQ18T Case Bundle · Allen & Heath
36 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Size7"
- Weight3 kg
The CQ18T is a seriously impressive little mixer. It’s perfect for smaller bands, touring musicians needing a portable solution, or anyone wanting a powerful digital workflow in a compact package. The touchscreen is a game changer, and the built-in recording options are a huge bonus.
Pros
- Compact size belies powerful processing and routing capabilities.
- Intuitive touchscreen interface drastically simplifies complex mixing tasks.
- Built-in SD card player/recorder offers convenient live performance recording.
Cons
- Limited physical controls can feel less tactile for seasoned engineers.
- Rackmount and case are separate purchases, adding to the overall investment.
74AudioFu
Index↑ 8.0%since Aug 17$1,264 · Aug 17$1,364 now$1,364€1,219 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Allen & Heath CQ-12T 12-Channel Digital Mixer
CQ12T Inlay Case Bundle · Allen & Heath
26 for sale on Reverb4 finishes at Thomann
- Size7"
- Weight2.4 kg
The CQ12T is a seriously clever little mixer, perfect for solo artists, duos, or smaller bands needing a powerful, portable solution. The touchscreen interface and integrated Bluetooth make setup a breeze, and the sound quality is surprisingly robust for its size. It’s a great balance of features and portability for the modern gigging musician.
Pros
- Compact design maximizes portability for gigging musicians and small venues.
- Integrated Bluetooth simplifies playback for backing tracks and announcements.
- 96kHz processing ensures clean, professional-grade audio quality.
Cons
- Limited channel count might restrict larger band setups or complex routing needs.
- Touchscreen interface could be less tactile than traditional physical controls.
73AudioFu
Index↑ 10.9%since Aug 17$938 · Aug 17$1,040 now$1,040€929 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size10"
- Weight24 kg
The WING-Bk is a beast – seriously powerful and flexible. It’s designed for larger touring rigs, corporate events, or venues needing serious routing and processing capabilities. If you're a seasoned sound engineer looking for a feature-rich, cost-effective console with Midas preamps, this is a compelling option.
Pros
- Midas preamps deliver clean, transparent gain for demanding live performances.
- Source-focused routing offers unparalleled flexibility for complex setups.
- Multi-touch display simplifies navigation, even during hectic shows.
Cons
- The sheer number of features can be overwhelming for novice users.
- Its considerable weight makes transportation and setup a two-person job.
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,864 now$2,864€2,559 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Mackie DL32SE 32 Channel Rackmount Mixer
DL32SE Router Bundle · Mackie
33 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight4 kg
This mixer packs serious power with thirty-two inputs and full recording features. It feels solid on stage and saves all your show setups instantly. It's a great choice for bands needing flexibility without buying extra gear.
Pros
- Thirty-two channels with selectable mic preamps for every input type
- Built-Like-A-Tank design handles stage movement and rough handling
- Full DSP allows multi-track recording via built-in USB I/O
Cons
- Heavy unit may be tough to move around large venues alone
- Price point is high for standard mixer features compared to rivals
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,341 now$1,341€1,198 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Allen & Heath QU-SB Portable Rack-Mountable Wireless Digital Mixer
SQ Rack · Allen & Heath
19 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size7"
- Weight5.8 kg
The SQ Rack is a seriously powerful, compact digital mixer. It's a fantastic solution for bands, touring acts, or venues needing a flexible, networked system with superb monitoring capabilities and rock-solid performance – especially if you’re already invested in the Allen & Heath ecosystem.
Pros
- Ultra-low latency (0.7ms) crucial for stage monitoring and live performance.
- SLink networking offers incredible flexibility for expanding I/O.
- The 7” touchscreen is responsive and intuitive, speeding workflow.
Cons
- The 4U rack height might be limiting for some setups.
- Learning curve exists for mastering the full feature set.
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,473 now$2,473€2,209 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Allen & Heath QU-SB Portable Rack-Mountable Wireless Digital Mixer
SQ Rack Case Bundle · Allen & Heath
19 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size7"
- Weight5.8 kg
This console brings pro-grade mixing power to the rack with its 48 channels and instant response. The large touch screen and many effects engines make setting up sound simple. It is a solid choice for venues needing flexible monitoring and quick recording.
Pros
- 96 kHz FPGA core ensures ultra-low latency for live performance
- 12 stereo mixes enable dedicated in-ear monitoring setups
- 7 inch multi-touch screen offers intuitive visual control
Cons
- 17 mono inputs is fewer than typical modern consoles
- No built-in monitor speakers mentioned in the bundle
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,540 now$2,540€2,269 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
- Weight6.5 kg
This mixer handles thirty-two channels with plenty of bus routing for complex shows. It brings a USB interface and recorder right into the case, saving space. While the fader type isn't listed, the solid build and many connection options make it a practical choice for mid-sized gigs.
Pros
- Fifty-two bus and matrix groups let you route signals flexibly.
- Fourteen-band EQ per channel handles complex frequency needs.
- Integrated USB interface and recorder simplify setup instantly.
Cons
- No specific power supply or rack kit included in bundle.
- Optional RCA outputs are not standard on all units.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$984 now$984€879 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 80 digital mixers
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Allen & Heath CQ-20B 16-Channel Rackmount Digital MixerCQ20B Case Bundle · Allen & Heath · 3 finishes63↑ 7.8%$1,141€1,019$1,141€1,019Check ↗
- 12
Yamaha MGX16V BKYamaha · 6 finishes62↓ 13.3%$1,096€979$1,096€979Check ↗
- 13
Soundcraft Ui-16 Rackmount 16-Channel Digital Mixer w/ WiFi RouterUi16 Bag Bundle · Soundcraft · 4 finishes84↓ 9.8%$554€495$554€495Check ↗
- 14
Allen & Heath QU-5Allen & Heath · 7 finishes58Stable$2,170€1,939$2,170€1,939Check ↗
- 15
Midas M32CMidas · 9 finishes56Stable$994€888$994€888Check ↗
- 16
Allen & Heath QU-6Allen & Heath · 6 finishes56↑ 3.1%$2,908€2,598$2,908€2,598Check ↗
- 17
PreSonus StudioLive Series III SE 16 Digital MixerStudioLive Series III SE 16 · Presonus54Stable$2,159€1,929$2,159€1,929Check ↗
- 18
Midas MR18 18-Input Digital iOS/Android Tablet MixerMR 18 Thon Case Bundle · Midas · 4 finishes60Stable$861€769$861€769Check ↗
- 19
Mackie DL16SE 16 Channel Rackmount MixerDL16SE · Mackie60Stable$838€749$838€749Check ↗
- 20
Behringer WING Compact Flyht Pro BundleBehringer52↓ 6.5%$2,614€2,335$2,614€2,335Check ↗
- 21
PreSonus StudioLive Series III SE 24 Digital MixerStudioLive Series III SE 24 · Presonus50Stable$2,797€2,499$2,797€2,499Check ↗
- 22
Behringer WING Rack Live 40 BundleBehringer49Stable$1,677€1,498$1,677€1,498Check ↗
- 23
Behringer WING Rack Router BundleBehringer49Stable$1,789€1,598$1,789€1,598Check ↗
- 24
Behringer WING Rack Stagebox BundleBehringer49Stable$1,980€1,769$1,980€1,769Check ↗
- 25
Allen & Heath SQ Rack Router BundleAllen & Heath49Stable$2,708€2,419$2,708€2,419Check ↗
- 26
Behringer WING Compact Stagebox BundleBehringer49Stable$2,875€2,569$2,875€2,569Check ↗
- 27
Behringer WING-Bk Hands On BundleBehringer49Stable$2,893€2,585$2,893€2,585Check ↗
- 28
Bose T8S ToneMatch MixerT8S Mixer · Bose49Stable$928€829$928€829Check ↗
- 29
Soundcraft Ui12 12-Channel Remote Controlled Digital MixerUi12 Case Bundle · Soundcraft · 5 finishes68Stable$532€475$532€475Check ↗
- 30
Behringer WING Rack 48-Channel Digital MixerWING Rack · Behringer44Stable$1,550€1,385$1,550€1,385Check ↗
- 31
Presonus StudioLive S III SE 32R BundlePresonus44Stable$2,236€1,998$2,236€1,998Check ↗
- 32
Behringer WING Compact 24-Channel Digital MixerWING Compact · Behringer44Stable$2,439€2,179$2,439€2,179Check ↗
- 33
Behringer WING Compact 24-Channel Digital MixerWING Compact Case Bundle · Behringer44Stable$2,745€2,452$2,745€2,452Check ↗
- 34
Behringer X18 18-Channel 12-Bus Digital Mixer for TabletsX18 Case Bundle · Behringer · 3 finishes64Stable$592€529$592€529Check ↗
- 35
Allen & Heath SQ-5 48-Channel Digital Mixer/USB InterfaceSQ5 · Allen & Heath · 9 finishes87↓ 4.8%$2,909€2,599$2,909€2,599Check ↗
- 36
Presonus StudioLive Series III SE 16RPresonus · 3 finishes41Stable$1,062€949$1,062€949Check ↗
- 37
Behringer X Air XR18 Tablet-Controlled Digital MixerX Air XR18 Thon Case Bundle · Behringer · 5 finishes65Stable$525€469$525€469Check ↗
- 38
Alto TMD 16 BundleAlto · 2 finishes45↓ 2.6%$850€759$850€759Check ↗
- 39
Allen & Heath SQ-6 48-Channel Digital Mixing ConsoleSQ6+ · Allen & Heath · 6 finishes79Stable$5,036€4,499$5,036€4,499Check ↗
- 40
Bose T4S ToneMatch MixerT4S Mixer · Bose50Stable$670€599$670€599Check ↗
- 41
Allen & Heath SQ-7 48-channel Digital MixerSQ7 · Allen & Heath · 6 finishes78↓ 2.6%$5,372€4,799$5,372€4,799Check ↗
- 42
Behringer X Air XR12 12-Input Tablet-Controlled Digital MixerX AIR XR12 WiFi Bundle · Behringer · 3 finishes63Stable$334€298$334€298Check ↗
- 43
Yamaha TF-RACK 40 Channel Rackmount Digital MixerTF-Rack · Yamaha72Stable$3,132€2,798$3,132€2,798Check ↗
- 44
Behringer WING 48-Channel Digital MixerWING-Bk Case Bundle · Behringer71Stable$3,274€2,925$3,274€2,925Check ↗
- 45
Yamaha TF1 40 Input Digital Mixing ConsoleTF-1 · Yamaha · 2 finishes69Stable$3,580€3,198$3,580€3,198Check ↗
- 46
Yamaha TF3 48 Input Digital Mixing ConsoleTF-3 · Yamaha · 2 finishes69Stable$4,476€3,999$4,476€3,999Check ↗
- 47
Behringer X Air XR16 16-Input Tablet-Controlled Digital MixerX Air XR16 Hands On Bundle · Behringer · 3 finishes54Stable$373€333$373€333Check ↗
- 48
Allen & Heath Avantis 64 Channel Digital Mixing ConsoleAvantis · Allen & Heath66Stable$13,319€11,899$13,319€11,899Check ↗
- 49
1010music bluebox Eurorack Edition1010music26Stable$837€748$837€748Check ↗
- 50
Midas MR12 12-Input Digital iOS/Android Tablet MixerMR 12 · Midas47Stable$424€379$424€379Check ↗
Digital Mixers by the numbers
Measured across all 269 models we track, not a sample.
Median $2,311 — half of all digital mixers here cost less.
median of 174 models · 4.3"–19"
median of 242 models · 2.1 kg–21.8 kg
How to choose the best digital mixers
Playability
A complex feature set is useless if you can't actually use it. We're looking for intuitive layouts, responsive encoders, and a workflow that doesn't slow you down when you're trying to nail a take or adjust levels on the fly.
Feature Set
Intermediate players need more than just basic EQ and compression. Things like aux sends for monitor mixes, onboard effects (reverb, delay - the essentials), and scene recall are vital for gigging and recording.
Learning Curve
Digital mixers have a steeper learning curve than analog, but it shouldn't feel like climbing Everest. We're assessing how quickly you can become proficient with the interface and menu structure.
Routing Flexibility
Can you easily create submixes for drums or vocals? Can you send signals to external effects processors? This is where digital mixers really shine, and intermediate players will appreciate the extra control.
Headroom & Noise Floor
A mixer's headroom is critical, especially for recording. You don't want to clip your tracks or be plagued by unwanted hiss. We're listening for clean gain and enough headroom to handle dynamic peaks without distortion.
Buying guide
So, you're past the basic analog mixer and ready to step into the digital world? Smart move. Digital mixers offer a ton of flexibility, but they can also be overwhelming. This isn't a list for the absolute beginner - we're targeting players who understand gain staging, EQ basics, and want a mixer that can grow with their skills without feeling like you need a PhD to operate it.
Don't get seduced by features you won't use. Many entry-level digital mixers load you up with a ton of stuff, but the routing can be a nightmare. Spend a little more for a mixer with a logical layout and a workflow that makes sense to you - your time is valuable.
Be wary of mixers that skimp on the preamps; those cheap solid-state preamps will muddy your low-end and lack that crucial harmonic richness.
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 220 digital mixers from the Thomann catalogue (of 269 in the category). 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 digital mixer and a digital console?
A mixer is generally smaller, more portable, and more focused on live sound and basic recording. A console is a much larger, more complex system often found in professional studios - think hundreds of channels and advanced routing capabilities.
How important are the onboard effects?
They're a nice bonus, but don't rely on them. The effects on most digital mixers are decent for a quick reverb or delay, but if you're serious about recording, invest in dedicated plugins or external effects.
What's scene recall, and why do I need it?
Scene recall lets you save and instantly recall entire mixer configurations - levels, EQ, effects. It's a lifesaver for gigs where you need to quickly switch between different band setups or soundchecks.
Can I connect my computer to record directly?
Most digital mixers have USB interfaces for multitrack recording. Check the specs to make sure it supports the number of channels you need to record simultaneously.
I'm overwhelmed by the menu system. Any tips?
Start with the basics - learn how to navigate the main menu, adjust levels, and use the EQ. Don't try to master everything at once. Watch some YouTube tutorials specific to your mixer model - there's usually a ton of helpful content out there.
