Best Podcast Mixer
If you're a podcaster, or if you just like to listen to podcasts, then you know that the quality of the podcast matters. Poor sound quality can be really distracting and can ruin an otherwise great show. That's why it's important to use a good podcast mixer.
In this blog post, we'll take a look at some of the best podcast mixers on the market right now. We'll discuss what makes each one special and how they could benefit your recordings. So whether you're just starting out or you're looking for an upgrade, read on for the best podcast mixers for any budget!
7 Best Podcast Mixers
- 4 Class A microphone preamps
- 4 headphone outputs
- 8 programmable pads (64 sounds)
- The kit includes a condenser microphone, a windproof muff, and two 3.5mm TRRS audio cables.
- Built-in audio effects, Bluetooth
- Supports simultaneous broadcasting of up to 2 people, 4 devices
- 4-channel USB Mixer/Audio Interface with Motorized Faders
- Dedicated FX and Sampler Sections
- LCD Scribble Strips
- USB audio interface with 2 inputs and 2 outputs
- Two HDDA mic preamps with balanced XLR/TRS inputs and switchable 48-volt phantom power
- Optional mini-jack microphone input
- 2 headphone jacks
- 2 microphone jacks
- 1 USB-C, 3.5mm AUX jack
- 4 Mic Inputs - TRS/XLR combo jacks
- 4 headphone outputs with independent volume control
- 8 sound pads x 8 Banks
- 6 high quality Microphone inputs with phantom power
- 6 Headphone outputs with individual volume control
- 9 Programmable Sound Pads
Detailed Overview
Let's take a closer look at each mixer and find out how they differ and which one is best for you.
Author's Choice
- 4 Class A microphone preamps
- 4 headphone outputs
- 8 programmable pads (64 sounds)
The RODE Rodecaster Pro is the perfect all-in-one podcasting solution for beginners and professionals alike. It has four studio-quality microphone inputs and four headphone outputs so you can easily communicate with your guests. It also delivers clear broadcast sound thanks to Class A microphone preamps, headphone monitoring, powerful built-in sound processing, compressor and noise reduction. The big touch screen makes it easy to navigate and use. Automatic settings and one-touch recording let you start creating professional podcasts without the hassle.
In addition, the RODE Rodecaster Pro has built-in sound effects, music, jingles and more, so you can easily add personality and flair to your podcasts. With 8 large pads located on the console, you have up to 64 sounds at your disposal. And with Bluetooth connectivity, you can easily connect it to your Mac or PC. If you're looking for a versatile podcasting solution that's easy to use and equipped with everything you need, the RODE Rodecaster Pro is the perfect choice for you.
You can also purchase a USA GEAR Audio case to carry the mixer and everything you need if you want to travel and broadcast.
Pros:
- 4 Class A microphone preamps
- 4 headphone outputs
- 8 programmable pads - a total of 64 sounds
- Bluetooth - Mac/PC
- USB to host
- 8 faders (slide controller)
- Easy-to-use
Cons:
- Some users think that the mixer lacks an independent USB channel to be used as an input and another one as an output. With them it would be perfect.
People's Choice
- The kit includes a condenser microphone, a windproof muff, and two 3.5mm TRRS audio cables.
- Built-in audio effects, Bluetooth
- Supports simultaneous broadcasting of up to 2 people, 4 devices
Podcast Equipment Bundle-MAONO is an audio interface that also functions as a mixing station. It has excellent sound quality and offers users full control to optimize vocals and sound effects. It includes a condenser microphone, a windproof muff, and two 3.5mm TRRS audio cables. It is compatible with most laptops, PCs, Windows, MAC OS, smartphones and tablets. The MAONOCASTER lite is ideal for podcasts, live streaming, YouTube, Twitch, studio music recording, and more. Four user-recordable, eight built-in special audio effects and various settings available for your creativity. Fixed audio effects such as Laughter, Applause and more. MAONO sound card for podcast equipment supports up to 2 people, 4 devices and 4 platforms broadcasting simultaneously. With two microphone inputs.10-step reverb, 12-step electronic music and 3 changeable tones (high, medium, low) make this audio interface more interesting and satisfy more live recording needs.
Pros:
- The kit includes a condenser microphone, a windproof muff, and two 3.5mm TRRS audio cables.
- Suitable for live podcasts
- Built-in audio effects
- Supports simultaneous broadcasting of up to 2 people, 4 devices
- Bluetooth
Cons:
- The included microphone may not be used with phantom power
Premium Choice
- 4-channel USB Mixer/Audio Interface with Motorized Faders
- Dedicated FX and Sampler Sections
- LCD Scribble Strips
Take your broadcasting to the next level with the TC-Helicon GO XLR Broadcast Production Studio Mixer. This all-in-one solution gives you complete control of your sound with a 4-channel mixer, real-time voice effects, and hardware and software. You can mix audio in real time, change your voice, and engage your audience like never before. With customizable motorized faders, you'll always come back to the sound you want.
The GoXLR soundboard and recorder can be used to slice samples on the fly, as well as to create bumpers for your podcast or just for fun. The easy-to-use GoXLR app is perfect for those who want to take their broadcasting to the next level. Make GoXLR your own with fully customizable lighting to match your gaming rig, your brand, or just you.
Also you can pay attention to the TC-Helicon GoXLR Mini Mixer, suitable for streaming.
Pros:
- 4-channel USB Mixer/Audio Interface with Motorized Faders
- Dedicated FX and Sampler Sections
- LCD Scribble Strips
- Studio quality vocal effects
- App Officially support Windows 7, 8, 10, 11
Cons:
- App does not have official Linux support, and no macOS support
Best Budget
- USB audio interface with 2 inputs and 2 outputs
- Two HDDA mic preamps with balanced XLR/TRS inputs and switchable 48-volt phantom power
- Optional mini-jack microphone input
The Tascam MiNiSTUDIO Creator US-42B is a lightweight, portable and desktop unit perfect for mobile use, with TRRS and TRS connectors for gaming headsets. It is compatible with Mac, Windows and iOS devices for both recording and streaming. Compatible with DAW software: Audacity, Cubase, Garageband, Live, Pro Tools, SONAR, and Studio One. Self-luminous and speed-sensitive trigger pads with on/off effect button and On Air live button. Light weight, portable and tabletop size perfect for mobile use. The Ministudio Creator has two Hi-z 1/4" inputs, ready to accept an electric guitar or bass. Speak or play. It's up to you.
Pros:
- Lightweight, portable and tabletop size
- Compatible interface with Mac, Windows, and iOS devices
- Self-lighting and velocity-sensitive trigger pads with an effect on/off button and live On Air button
- 24 bit/96 kHz
- USB audio interface with 2 inputs and 2 outputs
- Two HDDA mic preamps with balanced XLR/TRS inputs and switchable 48-volt phantom power
- Optional mini-jack microphone input
Cons:
- Some functions are limited when using the MAC
- Plastic materials
Best Portability
- 2 headphone jacks
- 2 microphone jacks
- 1 USB-C, 3.5mm AUX jack
The Maonocaster AM100 is a versatile and easy-to-use digital audio mixer ideal for podcasting, streaming and recording. It offers four audio mixing channels, making it easy to connect microphones, smartphones, computers and other sources. The Maonocaster also has six reverb modes, auto-tuning, and four pitch changers, allowing you to fine-tune your sound. Seven jingle pads are programmable using our PC/Mac app. We have preloaded four audio effects. You can load any audio effects you like into the MAONOCASTER. Plus, the built-in rechargeable battery makes it even more portable. Finally, the Maonocaster supports XLR microphones and provides 48V phantom power, making it ideal for recording high-quality sound.
Pros:
- It features a 5000 mah built-in battery, capable of supporting at least 8 hours non-stop podcasting
- 4 sound FX preset pads, and 3 programmable pads to upload your own sound FX or jingles using MAONOCASTER PC app
- 2 headphone jacks
- 2 microphone jacks
- 1 USB-C, 3.5mm AUX jack
Cons:
- The MAONOCASTER does not support the microphones with sensitivity lower than 48db
Best for 4 People
- 4 Mic Inputs - TRS/XLR combo jacks
- 4 headphone outputs with independent volume control
- 8 sound pads x 8 Banks
The Tascam Mixcast 4 is a studio podcast mixer that makes it easy and intuitive for up to 4 people to manage. It features a 5-inch touch panel, direct multitrack recording to SD card (up to 14 tracks), Bluetooth connectivity for mixing and recording phone calls wirelessly with minus, and the included TASCAM Podcast Editor to cover your entire system workflow.
It also has 4 microphone inputs, 4 headphone outputs with independent volume control, a stereo line input (selectable between TRS and 3.5mm TRRS), 8 sound pads x 8 banks, a main monitor output (TRS) and a stereo line output (3.5mm). It is powered by a silent DC adapter and has a lock to prevent accidental disconnection. Ideal for those who don't want to stop broadcasting to just one person and want to do interviews, podcasts or just talk to 2-3 people.
Pros:
- Easy and intuitive control using the 5-inch touch panel
- Direct multi-track recording to SD card (up to 14 tracks)
- Bluetooth connection allows mixing and recording phone calls wirelessly with mix minus
- 4 Mic Inputs - TRS/XLR combo jacks
- 4 headphone outputs with independent volume control
- 8 sound pads x 8 Banks
- 3.5mm TRRS headphone out
Cons:
- The sampling quality is low and only reaches 48 kHz and 24 bits
Best for Remote Interviews
- 6 high quality Microphone inputs with phantom power
- 6 Headphone outputs with individual volume control
- 9 Programmable Sound Pads
The Zoom PodTrak P8 is a podcast recorder that offers six high-quality microphone inputs with phantom power, six headphone outputs with individual volume control, and nine programmable sound pads. It also features multi-track recording for all inputs and sound pads, onboard editing functionality (trim, split, fade), and the ability to transfer your mix to a computer via USB-C. Additionally, the P8 offers an automatic mix-minus for call-in phone interviews, as well as a dedicated phone call channel for remote interviews.
Pros:
- 6 high quality Microphone inputs with phantom power
- 6 Headphone outputs with individual volume control
- 9 Programmable Sound Pads
- Onboard editing functionality (Trim, Split, Fade) or transfer mix to computer via USB-C
- Automatic Mix-Minus for call-in phone interviews and dedicated phone call channel for remote interviews
Cons:
- Made of plastic, legs are not weighted enough
Best Podcast Mixer - Buyer’s Guide
What to look for before buying?
Sound Output Method
The method of audio output is also important. Some mixers have stereo outputs using jack cables that can be routed to the audio interface of the computer, while others use USB for this purpose. There is no right or wrong answer here - your own workflow will determine the method that's right for you. In addition, some specialized mixers allow you to record directly to the device, usually via an SD card, which eliminates the computer from the process entirely. This can be especially useful if you're recording live music, as it reduces the likelihood of latency issues. Ultimately, it's important to choose a mixer that gives you the flexibility to work in a way that best suits your needs.
Record Phone Calls or Zoom Meetings
If you've ever had the unfortunate experience of trying to hold a conversation with someone on a video call who hasn't set up his mic properly, then you know just how annoying feedback can be. But what you may not know is that there's a simple solution to this problem - minus mixing. Minus mixing is a technique that allows you to control the audio output of a mixer so that it contains everything except for a specific channel. This is especially useful when you're trying to record phone calls or Zoom meetings, as it prevents the mic from picking up audio from the speakers and creating a feedback loop. So next time you're setting up for a recording, make sure to minus mix your audio and avoid those pesky feedback problems. For example, the Zoom PodTrak P8 Podcast Recorder is great for online calls.
Number of Microphones and Headphones
Mixers with the ability to connect more than one microphone and headphones are essential if you plan to work not only alone but also in a group or to conduct interviews. The number of microphones and headphones that can be connected varies from mixer to mixer, so it is important to choose a mixer that meets your needs. For example, if you plan to work with a large group, you will need a mixer with more inputs than if you are working with a smaller group.
USB or Bluetooth
USB or Bluetooth connectivity is a feature that is becoming increasingly popular in mixers. This type of connectivity allows you to connect the mixer to a computer or other devices for recording or playback.
XLR Microphones
XLR microphones are a great investment for those who want to improve the quality of their audio recordings. XLR microphones are known for their clear sound and ability to capture a wide range of frequencies. However, XLR microphones can be expensive, so it's important to get the most out of your investment. One way to do this is to use a mixer. Mixers allow you to fine tune the level of each individual XLR microphone as well as the overall balance of the mix. This gives you more control over the final sound of your recordings. Mixers also provide other benefits, such as phantom power, which is required for some XLR microphones. Ultimately, if you've invested in XLR microphones, a mixer is the best way to get the most out of your investment.
Mixer Controls
This is also something to consider when choosing a mixer. Entry-level mixers usually have knobs for adjusting the sound, while advanced consoles have sliders and faders. Knobs are great for adjusting things like volume or EQ, but sliders are easier to control if you want to fine-tune your recording. If you're aiming for precision, then sliders are fine for you. However, if you're just starting out, knobs may be more comfortable.
Best Podcast Mixer - FAQ
What is a podcast mixer and what is it for?
Podcast mixers are a critical piece of equipment for anyone looking to produce high-quality recordings. They offer the ability to adjust sound levels, apply effects, and reduce post-production editing time. Podcast mixers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with different features to suit different needs. For example, some podcast mixers have multiple inputs for connecting multiple microphones, while others include built-in effects that can be applied to the recording. No matter what your specific needs are, there is a podcast mixer out there that can help you take your recordings to the next level.
What kind of mixer do I need for my podcast?
This is a question that many podcasters struggle with. There are several factors to consider when choosing a mixer, but the most important one is the number of participants. This is where the choice starts. If your podcast has three or more participants, you need a mixer that has at least three XLR microphone inputs. If there are fewer or just you, choose a mixer with one or at least two, just in case you ever want to invite a guest to your podcast. And then you choose by the different features.
Are a mixer and an audio interface the same thing?
An audio mixer is a device with inputs and outputs used to process and route audio signals. Mixers are used to combine, route and change the level, timbre and/or dynamics of audio signals.
An audio interface converts analog audio signals into digital signals or digital signals into analog signals. It allows you to record and play audio on and off your computer. For example Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen. Although not necessary for everyone, an audio interface is an essential tool for those who want to record or playback audio on a computer.
Do you need an audio interface for podcasting?
If you are planning on recording a podcast or voice-over with more than one person, then an audio interface is recommended. This will allow you to connect pro dynamic microphones and capture each speaker on a separate track. If you are only planning on recording 1 or 2 people, then a USB microphone may be sufficient. However, this will only create a 1 track recording. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use an audio interface for podcasting comes down to your specific needs and objectives.
Conclusion
With so many different podcast mixers on the market, it can be hard to decide which one is best for you. However, we hope that this guide has helped make the process a little bit easier. Keep in mind your specific needs and budget when making your decision, and remember that there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The best mixer for you will depend on your individual circumstances. We wish you the best of luck as you start or continue your podcasting journey!