Best Audio Mixers for Streaming 2024

The best audio mixer for streaming can help you bring your streaming game to a more professional level.

There are definitely a lot of options out there, as is the case with all streaming tech such as the best camera for streaming, so it can be tough to make a decision if you're not really in the know. Fortunately, we're here to help get your head around it all.

The thing is, an audio mixer is the kind of thing that's invisible when it works well, but is really noticeable when the sound is muffled, crackles, or is simply too quiet to hear. Therefore, we've made a list of our favorite devices, no matter whether you're just starting and live streaming on a budget or an enthusiast looking to go to the next level, to kick off your search for the right one for you in the best way possible. Let's dive in...

Best streaming audio mixers

1. Razer Audio Mixer - a well-rounded choice for most people
2. GoXLR - best option with a sampler
3. Rode Rodecaster Pro 2 - a premium bit of kit for streaming
4. Yamaha MG10XU - a great option for multiple mics
5. Creative Sound Blaster K3+ - best portable pick
6. Behringer Xenyx 802S - an excellent budget mixer
7. Elgato Wave XLR - a compact contender to save space

1. Razer Audio Mixer

Best audio mixer for streaming overall

First up, we've got the Razer Audio Mixer, which is a rare normal name for the company that normally calls their devices "DeathAdder V3 Pro".It does what it says on the tin, does indeed mix audio, and is indeed all-in-one. It's also very good, hence being at the top of our list.

This thing has a four-channel design that allows you to comfortably tweak things as you need to make sure game volume, your volume, and any chatting you have coming through without drowning each other out. You can switch them up on the fly too.

Each channel has a mute button too, which is nice, and the device is really easy to set up. Plus, the gain on this is strong enough to support the Shure SM7B, which is an excellent microphone that can sometimes be drowned out by other sources.

2. GoXLR

Best audio mixer for streaming with a sampler

Next is the GoXLR, which unsurprisingly has XLR connections. This is also a four-channel mixer, but this one comes with a few neat features to make it a little more versatile, but also a fair amount more expensive. This also means it can take a little bit longer to learn to use as well, which is worth keeping in mind if you're not that tech-savvy.

This mixer has motorized faders, access to vocal effects, and a soundboard as well. Basically, it feels a bit more like you're a producer on an album when you're using it, and it allows for a more unique streaming environment as a result.

This one also has impressive gain and has some excellent gating controls too, which means you'll likely sound like you're in a studio when you've mastered it.

Credit: Rode

3. Rode Rodecaster Pro 2

Best premium audio mixer for streaming

If you're after a truly premium audio mixer, then this is it. The Rodecaster Pro 2 is a titan of audio mixing. It looks at other audio mixers, laughs, and then probably drops a bunch of sound samples before silencing them in one fell swoop. It's really good, okay?

This thing has six different audio channels, which is a hell of a lot, and is also covered in pretty colors that'll let you know when something is in use, muted, and what channel it is.

It also has a huge number of effects that'll allow you to create some beautiful moments on stream, and it works especially well for those who want to entertain above all else. The only limit is your imagination. And also the really high price tag.

Credit: Yamaha

4. Yamaha MG10XU

Best audio mixer for streaming with multiple mics

Here's one that's only really for those who know audio incredibly well. A lot of audio mixers take into account the fact that most of us aren't professional producers, and as such, many of the options out there are designed to be easier to understand and use. That's not really the case here.

While this mixer does have a good range of features, and more knobs to play around with than anyone could comfortably master, it's tricky to manage. However, if you don't mind watching a few YouTube videos on how to use this beast, it could become your new best friend. Well, from a content creation standpoint anyway, don't actually befriend audio mixers.

Credit: Creative Sound

5. Creative Sound Blaster K3+

Best portable audio mixer for streaming

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Next, we've got an excellent budget and portable audio mixer for streamers: the Creative Sound Blaster K3+. This two-channel mixer is an excellent option if you're just starting out, and along with having two channels, which should cover most beginners, it also has a few useful effects.

Among a few other things, this mixer allows for reverb, pitch correction, and even voice morphing too. The controls are a bit simpler than some of the other audio mixers for streamers as well, which means you'll be able to become more comfortable with it far sooner and produce the best content you can do faster.

Credit: Behringer

6. Behringer Xenyx 802S

Best budget audio mixer for streaming

Here we have another extraordinary option as far as a cheap audio mixer for streamers go in the Behringer Xenyx 802S. Behringer has a few options out there, but we like this one because it's got eight different channels, which is incredible for the price, and a range of useful features as well.

For instance, it has a stereo USB audio interface to not only allow it to connect to your PC but also a mobile device, and it has two award-winning XENYX microphone preamps for more musical sound. The result is sound quality that will remain high despite the low cost.

Credit: Elgato

7. Elgato Wave XLR

Best compact audio mixer for streaming

Finally, we have the Elgato Wave XLR. This is probably the simplest device to use of the bunch, and coming from Elgato, that makes a lot of sense. The devices Elgato creates are always high quality, but they're designed with a singular focus on usability above all else.

Along with incredible clip guard tech that'll make sure everything you say is heard clearly, this device can also easily control your vocal inputs and your headphone outputs. It's really easy to use, has a tap-to-mute function, and the digital software helps make it a little more versatile. Just don't expect much more outside of the standard functions here, but if you're looking to save desk space, this compact yet powerful mixer is definitely a top contender.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We've answered some of the most commonly asked queries below in case you have any questions.

What does an audio mixer for streaming do?

An audio mixer for streaming is a device or software that combines and balances multiple audio inputs into a single output, optimizing the overall sound quality for live broadcasts. It allows streamers to manage different audio sources such as microphones, game sounds, music, and alerts, adjusting the volume levels and applying effects like equalization or compression to ensure a clear and professional audio experience for their audience.

Additionally, an audio mixer provides real-time control over the audio signals, enabling streamers to mute or solo specific inputs, adjust the mix dynamically during the stream, and prevent audio issues like clipping or feedback. This functionality is crucial for creating a polished and engaging stream, as it ensures that the audio is well-balanced, enhancing the viewer's experience and maintaining a high standard of production quality.

Is an audio mixer needed for streaming?

While you don't need one to be able to stream, it can be a huge boon if you're trying to do anything in the region of complicated.

While your PC and whatever streaming software you have can handle a lot of the basics, if you end up with multiple audio sources you'll want something more capable to better fine-tune your set-up.

What features are needed from an audio mixer for streaming?

When looking for a streaming audio mixer, prioritize features that enhance audio quality and ease of use. Key features include multiple input channels to accommodate various audio sources, USB connectivity for seamless integration with your computer, and built-in effects like equalization and reverb to improve sound. Additionally, low latency is crucial for real-time audio monitoring, and a user-friendly interface ensures quick adjustments during live streams.

Compatibility with your streaming software and portability may also be important depending on your setup. Look for mixers from reputable brands that offer robust support and reliability. Consider additional features like loopback functionality for integrating system audio too, and multi-channel recording if you plan to use the mixer for podcasting or music production as well.

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