AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Powered Mixers for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Yamaha EMX5 12 Channel 1200-Watt Powered Analog Mixer ($847). Behringer PMP 500MP3 gives you the most for the money at $190. Yamaha EMX7 12 Channel 1400-Watt Powered Analog Mixer leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 17 models across 6 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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Yamaha EMX5 12 Channel 1200-Watt Powered Analog Mixer
EMX 5 · Yamaha
30 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight9.5 kg
This is a powered mixer, so it mixes your sources and drives your speakers in one box. It has eight microphone inputs, four stereo channels, a digital effects processor, and a feedback locator to help you spot trouble. It suits you if you need one unit that handles many inputs, and it can mount in a 19-inch rack once you add the optional kit.
Pros
- Two power amp channels rated 630 W at 4Ω each and 460 W at 8Ω
- Eight microphone inputs with XLR and jack connections
- Four stereo channels plus a built-in SPX-class digital effects processor
Cons
- Rack mount kit RK-EMX7 is sold separately and not included
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$847 now$847€759 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Behringer Europower PMP6000 1600-Watt 20-Channel Powered Mixer with…
PMP 6000 · Behringer
6 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Weight13.1 kg
You get a lot of channels and a lot of power here, so this mixer suits you if you run a band or a small event with many mics and sources. It has 12 mic preamps with 48V phantom power, so condenser mics work without extra gear. Because it is a powered mixer, you can plug speakers straight in without buying a separate amplifier.
Pros
- Two 800 W power amplifiers, bridgeable to 1600 W, for serious output
- Twelve mic preamps with 48V phantom power for condenser microphones
- Twenty channels, 12 mono and 4 stereo, for mixing many sources
Cons
- Only 2 AUX-paths, which may limit complex monitor setups
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$490 now$490€439 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Behringer Europower PMP1680S 1600-Watt 10-Channel Powered Mixer
PMP 1680S · Behringer
5 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight9.9 kg
You get a powered mixer with 10 channels, two effects processors and built-in power for speakers. It has an FBQ feedback detection system and is 19-inch rackmount capable, so you can keep everything in one rack-ready box. At 9.9 kg it is better suited to a fixed rig than to carrying around casually.
Pros
- Two 600 W RMS channels at 4 Ohm, plus 300 W RMS at 8 Ohm for stage-level output
- 10 channels: 6 mono and 2 stereo, plus CD/Tape input and output
- Two 24-bit stereo effects processors with 100 presets including reverb, delay and pitch shifter
Cons
- Weighs 9.9 kg and measures 315 x 460 x 220 mm, so it is not very portable
63AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$356 now$356€319 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Behringer Europower PMP4000 1600-Watt 16-Channel Powered Mixer
PMP 4000 · Behringer
3 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight10.4 kg
If you want one box that mixes your inputs and also powers your speakers, this one is worth a look. You get sixteen channels, eight mic preamps with 48 V phantom power, and two 800 W amplifiers. It is compact for what it offers, but at about 10.40 kg you will want help moving it between gigs.
Pros
- Sixteen channels with eight mono and four stereo inputs for flexible mixing
- Two 800 W amplifiers, with 1600 W available in bridged mode
- Eight mic preamps with 48 V phantom power for condenser microphones
Cons
- Weighs approximately 10.40 kg, which is not light for carrying to gigs
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$408 now$408€365 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight9 kg
This is a powered mixer, so the mixing and the amplifying are built into one unit. It has nine mic inputs with +48 V phantom power, which you need for condenser mics, plus 25 effects presets and dual 9-band graphic EQs. It suits you if you want one box that covers a small stage setup with several mics and instruments.
Pros
- Two channels rated up to 1000 W maximum at 4 Ohm each
- Nine microphone inputs, each with +48 V phantom power
- Fourteen-channel mixer with 6 mono and 4 stereo channels
52AudioFu
Index↓ 10.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$329 · Aug 17$296 now$296€265 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
- Weight6.6 kg
This is a rack-mount mixer with a built-in amplifier, so you can run speakers from one box. It has eight mic inputs with 48 V phantom power, a 24-bit effects processor, and USB and Bluetooth playback. If you want something you can carry easily, look elsewhere, since it weighs 6.6 kg.
Pros
- Two 400-watt amplifier channels rated at 4 ohms for running speakers directly
- Twelve channels: eight mono, two stereo, and two aux for flexible mixing
- Eight mic preamps with 48 V phantom power for condenser microphones
Cons
- Weighs 6.6 kg and measures 135 x 485 x 340 mm, so it is not very portable
50AudioFu
Index↓ 5.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$401 · Aug 17$377 now$377€338 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Behringer PMP500 500W 12-Channel Mixer M-FX
PMP 500 · Behringer
3 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight6.3 kg
You get a 12-channel powered mixer with 125W of power, a built-in multi-effects processor, and feedback detection. It suits you if you want one box to handle microphones and a few instruments at a gig or rehearsal. At 6.3 kg, it is fairly heavy, so plan for that when you carry it.
Pros
- Six mic preamps with switchable 48V phantom power for condenser microphones
- Klark Teknik multi-effects processor with LCD display and tap function
- FBQ feedback detection system helps control feedback
Cons
- Stereo 7-band EQ is limited to the master and monitor outputs
51AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$289 now$289€259 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha EMX7 12 Channel 1400-Watt Powered Analog Mixer
EMX 7 · Yamaha
28 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight9.5 kg
If you need a powered mixer that can run a PA on its own, this one gives you a lot in one unit. You get eight mic inputs, four stereo channels, a 9-band graphic EQ, a Feedback Locator, and a digital effects processor. It suits you if you set up gigs or run a room and want everything built in.
Pros
- Two 710 W outputs into 4 ohms give strong power for a mixer
- Eight microphone inputs with XLR and jack connections
- Built-in 9-band graphic EQ and speaker processor with presets
Cons
- Weighs 9.5 kg and measures 465 x 308 x 325 mm, so it is not very portable
76AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,114 now$1,114€998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The SP108 is a solid, budget-friendly powered mixer perfect for small bands, DJs, or anyone needing a simple PA solution. It's got enough channels for a basic setup and the built-in power amp saves you a lot of hassle. Don't expect studio-grade performance, but it's a reliable workhorse for uncomplicated gigs.
Pros
- Surprisingly robust plastic construction for the price point
- Clean preamp section handles dynamic mics well
- Integrated power amp simplifies setup for small gigs
Cons
- Limited effects options – reverb is basic and somewhat muddy
- EQ isn't the most precise; lacks nuance for critical mixing
32AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$253 now$253€227 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size8"
The PMP 500MP3 is a surprisingly capable little mixer, perfect for solo performers, small bands, or anyone needing a portable PA system for spoken word or basic music reinforcement. It’s a great entry point into powered mixing, offering a good balance of features and affordability, although don’t expect high-end performance.
Pros
- Surprisingly clean preamp section for its price bracket.
- Built-in MP3 player adds convenient playback functionality.
- Compact size makes it highly portable for small gigs.
Cons
- Plastic enclosure feels less robust than more expensive mixers.
- EQ is basic; lacks nuance for detailed sound shaping.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$190 now$190€170 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 17 powered mixers
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Behringer Europower PMP550M 5-Channel 500-Watt Powered MixerPMP 550M · Behringer48Stable$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 12
Dynacord Powermate 600-3Dynacord52Stable$2,231€1,998$2,231€1,998Check ↗
- 13
Fun Generation PM-6Fun Generation40Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 14
Dynacord Powermate 1000-3Dynacord37↑ 22.1%$4,074€3,649$4,074€3,649Check ↗
- 15
Dynacord Powermate 1600-3Dynacord29↑ 32.6%$5,001€4,479$5,001€4,479Check ↗
- 16
Dynacord Powermate 1000-3 BundleDynacord22↑ 22.4%$4,275€3,829$4,275€3,829Check ↗
- 17
Dynacord Powermate 1600-3 BundleDynacord18↑ 32.9%$5,191€4,649$5,191€4,649Check ↗
Powered Mixers by the numbers
Measured across all 20 models we track, not a sample.
Median $624 — half of all powered mixers here cost less.
median of 14 models · 4.5 kg–13.1 kg
median of 8 models · 8"–19"
How to choose the best powered mixers
Clean Headroom
Crucial for avoiding that harsh, fizzy breakup when you push the levels. You want a mixer that stays relatively clean until you're genuinely needing to move into 'loud' territory - important for vocal clarity and avoiding muddy low-end.
EQ Capabilities
Beyond just bass, mid, and treble, look for a mixer with a usable mid-sweep or at least a decent amount of shelving EQ. Being able to carve out space for your bass guitar or add some warmth to a thin vocal can make or break a mix.
Input Flexibility
XLR, 1/4" TRS, Hi-Z inputs - you need options. A good intermediate mixer will handle both dynamic and condenser microphones, plus instrument direct inputs without needing a separate DI box.
Effects (Reverb/Delay)
While not essential, built-in effects can be a huge time-saver, especially for smaller gigs where you might not have a dedicated effects chain. The quality varies wildly, so listen carefully - cheap reverb sounds like a cavern, good reverb adds space.
Build Quality & Reliability
Gigs happen in less-than-ideal conditions. A mixer that feels solid and has robust connectors isn't just about aesthetics; it's about avoiding failures mid-set.
Buying guide
So, you're past the basic bedroom practice amp and starting to think about real PA. Awesome. As an intermediate player, you need more than just 'loud'; you need clean headroom, usable EQ, and enough inputs to handle a small band. This isn't about the cheapest option; it's about finding a powered mixer that won't bottleneck your creativity or embarrass you on a small stage.
Don't chase the highest wattage number; focus on clean headroom and the quality of the preamps. Often, a smaller wattage mixer with better components will sound better at a lower volume. Be wary of mixers with a ton of features you won't use - those are often corners cut elsewhere.
Paying a bit more for a reputable brand usually gets you better components and a more reliable power supply.
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 20 powered 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 'clean headroom' and just 'loudness'?
Loudness is about decibels; clean headroom is about how long that loudness stays clean. A mixer with low headroom will distort quickly, making everything sound muddy and harsh. Clean headroom lets you push the volume without unwanted breakup.
Do I really need phantom power?
If you plan on using condenser microphones (which are common for vocals and acoustic instruments), then yes, you absolutely need phantom power. Dynamic mics don't require it, but it's a standard feature now and doesn't hurt to have.
How important are the built-in effects?
They're a nice convenience, especially for smaller gigs, but don't expect studio-quality effects. Consider them a bonus, not a primary reason to buy a mixer.
What's the deal with Hi-Z inputs?
Hi-Z inputs are designed for instruments like guitars and basses. They have a higher impedance, which allows the instrument's signal to be transmitted more faithfully, resulting in a fuller, more accurate tone. Plugging a guitar into a standard mic input will sound thin and lifeless.
Can I use a powered mixer for recording?
Absolutely! The preamps in many powered mixers are surprisingly good. Just be mindful of noise floor and headroom when recording at lower volumes. It's a decent option for demoing or tracking basic parts.
