Why do I need a mixer?

A mixer, also known as a mixing console or audio mixer, is a device that allows you to combine and adjust multiple audio signals. It enables you to control and blend the volume, tone, and other characteristics of multiple sources such as microphones, musical instruments, audio recordings, and even digital audio signals to create a single optimized audio signal.

Mixers can be used in many different applications such as recording studios, on stages and at live events, in radio studios, and in television productions. They can also be used to process and control audio signals in real-time, such as adjusting the volume of individual voices or instruments during a recording or live performance.

Mixers come in various sizes and with different functionalities, from simple portable devices to advanced digital mixers with many channels and complex controls. Depending on the requirements, you can choose from a wide range of options.

Which mixer is right for me?

The choice of the right mixer depends on the requirements of the application. Here are some examples of different applications and the suitable types of mixers:

• Live Events: For live events such as concerts, theatrical performances, and other events, mixers with many channels and robust controls are ideal. It is also important that the mixer provides good sound quality and low latency to allow real-time signal manipulation.
• Recording Studios: Digital mixers that offer many functions like recording, playback, effects, and virtual routing are often used in recording studios. These mixers are generally connected to computers or other digital devices and allow you to process and store audio signals.
• Radio and Television Productions: Mixers for radio and television productions usually require multiple channels to control audio from various sources such as microphones, musical instruments, and audio tracks. It is important that they sound good and are reliable as they are often used in live broadcasts.
• Music Production: Music producers often need mixers with many features such as effects, virtual routing, automation, to record, edit, and mix audio signals. It is also important that the mixers have high-quality microphone preamplifiers and digital interfaces to connect to other devices.

It is also important to be clear about the number of channels needed and which features you actually require. In any case, there are many different types of mixers on the market, so research carefully to find the right device for your needs.

How much does a good mixer cost?

The costs for a good mixer can vary widely and depend on various factors such as the number of channels, the included features, and the quality of the device.

Simple, portable mixers can be purchased for under 100 euros, while advanced digital mixers with many features and channels can cost thousands of euros.

For example, if you opt for a simple 4-channel mixer, you could spend around 200-300 euros for a high-quality device. However, if you need a mixer with more channels, digital processing, and integrated effects, you will need to be prepared to allocate a significantly higher budget.

It is important to pay attention to which features you need and which you do not, and to decide based on your requirements. If you are unsure which mixer is best suited for you, feel free to ask us for advice!

Analog vs. Digital - 1 Mixer, 2 Worlds

Mixers are generally divided into 2 categories: Analog and Digital. Analog mixers use voltage variations to represent changes in sound pressure.

Pros and Cons of Analog Mixers

The main advantages of analog mixers are ease of use and sound quality. Once you've learned the basics of an analog mixer, you can easily and quickly adapt to any other mixer. Not to mention, countless legendary hits have been recorded with the help of analog mixers. The warm, analog sound can still captivate and is still found in countless top studios around the world.

One disadvantage of analog mixers is that they require occasional maintenance. You can find appropriate accessories and spare parts at Recordcase.de.

Many mixers have integrated interfaces for recording or can be connected to the computer in this way. In our wide assortment, you'll find USB, Firewire, and digital mixers that record your live performances or studio productions.

Pros and Cons of Digital Mixers

A digital mixer utilizes - you guessed it - Digital Signal Processing to combine and process audio signals. Digital mixers are electronic devices and can, depending on the manufacturer and type, become complex to operate. However, you'll have the ability to save and restore your settings and presets as needed. Many digital mixers also feature EQs, compressors, reverbs, and a plethora of other effects directly built-in.

Many sound engineers today adopt a hybrid approach, combining analog and digital mixers to get the best of both worlds.

Compact Mixers - Big Sound in Small Space

A mini mixer is extremely compact yet still allows for versatile applications. Beginners, seasoned audio technicians, and professionals often resort to these small wonders.

In studio routines or at home, a compact mixer serves as a central interface for various audio sources. Various playback devices can be connected and played back neatly.

Diverse Applications for Every Purpose

A digital interface in the form of a USB interface is often included to make the device suitable for recording sessions. However, if you're specifically interested in multitrack recordings, it's better to take a look at the „Audio Interfaces“ category. These devices are specially designed for recording and playback and offer more options in this area.

In live operation, smaller mixers enable FOH and monitor mixing, especially in smaller band projects. Depending on the project, you should carefully check the number of aux sends required. If the band grows later on, a second mixer can be connected in parallel without immediately having to consider a system change.

Great sound quality despite compact design

The sound of these little helpers no longer needs to hide behind the higher-priced models. Manufacturers often integrate similar or identical converters to the flagships. This promotes clean and low-noise sound even with lower input signals. However, you should always adjust your levels optimally.

So you no longer need to set your budget for a compact mixer as high as you did a few years ago.

Choosing the right model

Your demands on the situation determine the requirements for the mixer.

To narrow down your selection, you should list the required channels, outputs, equalizers, and more. Typically, each input source should be assigned its own channel.

You should also consider mono and stereo channels, balanced connections for microphones, or separate phantom power per channel.

The sound adjustment, namely the equalizer, often offers only fixed frequencies, which leads to fewer adjustment options. However, semi-parametrics are often used in the mid-frequency bands to make more precise adjustments to vocals.

Working with subgroups

A mixer consists of individual channels,subgroups, and a master section.

For medium-sized productions, it makes sense to use subgroups to increase speed and flexibility in routing. This way, you could potentially control the levels of your three singers with just one fader.

Consequently, depending on the purpose, it's advantageous to include subgroups in your list of requirements.

Additional features with plenty of room

In addition to the usual, some manufacturers include digital effects units like delay, reverb, flanger, or chorus directly into the console. This eliminates the need for additional hardware and cabling.

However, the internal effects are often designed only for studio use and can usually only be mixed in after recording. If you're unsure about the routing and signal flow of various functions, it's best to inquire further.

For live use, additional insert or output paths are offered, and a compressor per channel is often included in the equipment.

To respond to the acoustic environment of an event, frequency adjustments to the overall mix are necessary. This is preferably done through a master EQ, which is provided with various devices.

Can it be a little bigger? Mixers with 20 channels and more

Do you have a band and the number of channels on the compact mixer just isn't enough? Do you want a solid model that won't be too small even in one or two years? Or are you already a professional and simply need the many channels and adjustment options of a high-quality mixer? Then you're in the right place in this category!

Because here you'll find a variety of high-quality mixers that are both easy to transport and impressive for their number of channels and settings, as well as for their unique quality. The latest technology and the best workmanship ensure that you can hear this quality. And I'll tell you exactly how to find the mixer that's right for you.

Which studio mixer is right for me?

First of all, you need to know what you need the mixer for and what requirements you have for the device. How many instruments or singers do you have in your band? Do you want a mixer for rehearsals and gigs or one for the studio? Or a true all-rounder? No problem, because we definitely have the right mixer for you.

Important for the decision - The requirements

To find the right mixer, you should ask yourself the following questions before buying:

• How many channels do I need? (Microphones and instruments)
• What do I want to adjust on these channels? (e.g., equalizer for sound modification)
• How many outputs do I need? (Speakers, Monitors, and headphones)
• What else should the mixer be able to do? (more on this in the next paragraph)

Helpful accessories for perfect sound

Many devices have a USB port that allows you to record the mixer's sound directly onto the PC's recording software.

This way you can also use the mixer in the studio for recording purposes or easily make a first-class recording during a concert or rehearsal without much effort.

Some mixers have built-in effects such as delay or reverb. These effects create a unique sound and can help to separate individual voices or instruments. Thanks to the effects integrated into the mixer, you save yourself the hassle of carrying and connecting separate devices and still have the same options as with classic effect devices.

By now, the effects in such studio mixers have become really good and can even be used in the studio.

If you follow these tips, you can definitely find the right mixer for you on this page. And whether you choose a Behringer mixer, a Yamaha mixer, or another device, you can order it securely thanks to our SSL encryption.