AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Stage Boxes for Digital Mixers Under $1,000 2026
The top pick is Midas DL16 16-Input 8-Output Stage Box ($830). Behringer SC16-O gives you the most for the money at $233. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 15 models across 4 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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- Size19"
If you run a digital mixer and need more inputs and outputs away from the desk, this stage box can help. It takes sixteen inputs and eight outputs over a long CAT-5e cable, so you can place it closer to the performers and keep your cable runs shorter. It mounts in a standard 19 inch rack, which makes it easy to fit into a rack setup.
Pros
- Sixteen inputs and eight outputs in one 2U unit
- AES50 network connection links it with Klark Teknik gear
- Runs up to 100 m over standard CAT-5e cabling
Cons
- Installation depth of 21 cm needs enough space behind the rack
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$830 now$830€743 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Behringer S32 Digital Snake IO Box 32 Preamps 16 Outputs
S32 · Behringer
14 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
If you run a digital mixer and need more inputs and outputs on stage, this is worth a look. You get 32 inputs and 16 outputs in a 19 inch rack unit, and it connects back to the mixer over AES50 cabling up to 100m long. It suits sound engineers who want to move their stage connections away from the mixer without running a lot of extra cable.
Pros
- 32 inputs and 16 outputs in one compact 19 inch, 3 HE unit
- AES50 network connection (Klark Teknik) carries signals over long cable runs
- Supports up to 100m of CAT-5e cabling
Cons
- Needs a digital mixer with AES50 support to work
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$847 now$847€759 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
PreSonus NSB 16.8 16x8 AVB Network Stagebox
NSB 16.8 · Presonus
31 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
If you run a PreSonus StudioLive console and need more mic inputs on stage, this box can help you. You connect it to the console with one CAT5e or CAT6 cable, and you can control the preamps right from the mixer. It will not work on its own, so skip it if you do not already own a compatible StudioLive or AVB mixer.
Pros
- Sixteen XMAX Class A mic preamps, each remote-controllable from the console or software
- Sixteen combo jacks accept both XLR and jack connectors for mic or line sources
- Eight XLR line outputs give you plenty of routing for a stage setup
Cons
- Works only with PreSonus StudioLive consoles and AVB rack mixers, with no stand-alone use
- Needs 48 Volt phantom power from the console to run its mic preamps
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$908 now$908€813 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Behringer S16 Digital Snake 16 Input 8 Output IO Box
S16 · Behringer
10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
The Behringer S16 is a surprisingly capable stagebox, especially for smaller to mid-sized gigs. Its AES50 networking keeps latency tight, and the ADAT outputs are a real bonus. This is a great option for bands and sound engineers on a budget who need to extend their mixer's inputs and outputs.
Pros
- Klark Teknik AES50 networking offers remarkably low latency.
- Solid metal chassis feels surprisingly robust for the price point.
- Dual ADAT outputs expand flexibility for recording or effects sends.
Cons
- AES50 protocol requires compatible digital mixers or interfaces.
- Limited routing options compared to higher-end digital snakes.
63AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$468 now$468€419 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
- Weight2.2 kg
This box is great if you need to move audio between different digital mixers without losing timing. It sends sound and power over one cable, which saves space on your stage. However, you still need your own mixer to actually control the levels, so it is best used as a helper rather than a standalone unit.
Pros
- 16 XLR outputs handle many instruments at once easily
- Transmits audio and power over a single XLR cable
- Low latency ensures zero noticeable delay during live shows
Cons
- No built-in mixing controls for on-the-fly adjustments
- Relies on external power supply for remote operation
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Sep 30Sep 30$233 now$233€209 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The SD16 is a seriously useful tool for bands and sound engineers needing more stage inputs than their console offers. It’s a great way to expand your I/O without a massive investment, and the Klark Teknik integration is a big bonus. Perfect for smaller to mid-sized venues where you need flexible routing and monitor control.
Pros
- AES50 networking offers exceptional flexibility and low latency
- Klark Teknik DSP provides a familiar and powerful processing suite
- Robust metal chassis feels surprisingly solid for the price bracket
Cons
- Build quality, while improved, still feels somewhat plasticky in places
- AES50 cabling can be a potential point of failure with long runs
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$657 now$657€588 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
- Weight1 kg
The DT02 is a seriously handy little box for anyone already invested in a Dante ecosystem – think touring techs, recording studios, or houses of worship needing flexible stage connectivity. It’s a well-built, reliable way to get your analog signals into your digital mixer, and the PoE power is a real convenience. Just be aware you're locked into the Dante world.
Pros
- Incredibly compact form factor simplifies installation in tight spaces.
- Dante integration offers robust, low-latency audio transport.
- PoE power option reduces cabling clutter and complexity.
Cons
- Limited to two outputs restricts flexibility for larger setups.
- Dante infrastructure required, adding to overall system cost.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$334 now$334€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight2.2 kg
The DN4816-I is a serious workhorse for live sound engineers needing a reliable, high-channel-count stage box. It’s a fantastic solution for bands and touring acts already using StageCONNECT-enabled consoles, drastically simplifying your setup and reducing cable clutter. This is a no-nonsense piece of gear built to handle the rigors of professional use.
Pros
- Rock-solid Midas build quality; feels incredibly durable.
- StageCONNECT simplifies cabling dramatically, saving time and effort.
- Ultranet provides high-channel-count transmission with low latency.
Cons
- Limited input processing beyond basic gain and routing.
- The single USB port restricts functionality for advanced control.
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$333 now$333€298 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight2.2 kg
This Midas box sends a lot of signals through one cable with almost zero delay. It works well for musicians who need to move audio between stages without running too many wires. Great for tight setups where space is limited and timing matters.
Pros
- Transmits up to 32 signals over a single XLR cable
- Ultra-low latency ensures timing stays tight on stage
- Supports phantom power for easy equipment setup
Cons
- Only offers two specific StageCONNECT I/O ports
- No digital audio interfaces built into the unit
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$334 now$334€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
The DT20 is a seriously clever little box for anyone already in the Dante ecosystem. It's perfect for smaller venues, broadcast setups, or even just expanding a digital mixer's stage I/O. The build quality is solid as you'd expect from Allen & Heath, and the Dante integration makes life a whole lot easier.
Pros
- Compact size ideal for tight stage setups and discreet installations.
- Dante integration simplifies complex routing and signal management.
- PoE power option minimizes cabling clutter and installation complexity.
Cons
- Limited to two inputs restricts use for larger, more complex productions.
- Requires Dante infrastructure, adding to initial system investment.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$334 now$334€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 15 stage boxes for digital mixers
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Allen & Heath DT22Allen & Heath50Stable$445€399$445€399Check ↗
- 12
Behringer SD8 I O Box 8-Preamps 8-OutputsSD8 · Behringer49Stable$357€320$357€320Check ↗
- 13
Behringer SC-UBehringer48Stable$133€119$133€119Check ↗
- 14
Behringer SC88Behringer48Stable$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 15
Midas DL8Midas41Stable$546€489$546€489Check ↗
Stage Boxes for Digital Mixers by the numbers
Measured across all 17 models we track, not a sample.
Median $357 — half of all stage boxes for digital mixers here cost less.
median of 7 models · 19"–19"
median of 8 models · 0.37 kg–2.2 kg
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 stage boxes for digital 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 should I look for when buying stage boxes for digital mixers?
Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.
How much should I spend on stage boxes for digital mixers?
Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.
Are expensive stage boxes for digital mixers worth the investment?
Higher-priced stage boxes for digital mixers typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.
What are the best brands for stage boxes for digital mixers?
Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.
Should I buy stage boxes for digital mixers online or in-store?
Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.





