Have you ever listened to a podcast and thought, “Wow, their sound is amazing!”? Good audio makes a huge difference in how listeners connect with your show. But when you start looking for an audio mixer, you face a wall of confusing buttons and technical terms. Which one is right for your setup? Should you get one with many inputs or just a few? These choices can feel overwhelming, stopping many great podcast ideas before they even start.
Choosing the wrong mixer can lead to noisy recordings, complicated setups, and frustrated guests. We know the struggle of wanting professional sound without a professional headache. That is why we dove deep into the best audio mixers designed specifically for podcasters like you. By the end of this guide, you will understand exactly what features matter most, cutting through the jargon so you can select the perfect heart for your recording studio.
Ready to stop worrying about gear and start focusing on your amazing content? Let’s explore the best audio mixers that will instantly upgrade your podcast quality!
Top Audio Mixer For Podcasting Recommendations
No. 1
FIFINE Gaming Audio Mixer, Streaming RGB PC Mixer with XLR Microphone Interface, Individual Control, Volume Fader, Mute Button, 48V Phantom Power, for Podcast/Recording/Vocal/Game Voice-AmpliGame SC3
- [XLR Mic Input] One XLR microphone input interface is set on the gaming audio mixer, which is great to up your audio quality with your XLR setup. The XLR mixer is a stepping stone to upgrade your live streaming. Audio mixer offered built-in 48V phantom power which opens up more choices for mics. Directly use it with your condenser microphone but do not solve added peripherals. (NOT available for USB mic)
- [Individual Channel Control] Gaming audio mixer for one mic recording with smooth volume slider fader take your streaming recording to a whole new level with full pleasure. Four independent channels set on the DJ mixer give audio volume of the MICROPHONE, LINE IN, HEADPHONE, and LINE OUT channels individual control. Configurable on the PC audio mixer instead of just operating on your game or streaming software.
- [Mute and Monitor] The front mute and monitor buttons but not at the back, make it easier to get the audio interface use. Ability to mute audio, the audio mixer for streaming prevents background noise from damaging your live broadcast. Real-time feedback between speaking and hearing will not distract your attention, which encourage you to speak more confidently. The sturdy-built control button allow you to operate freely and easily during live streaming.
- [Sound Effects] The computer sound mixer supports four pre-recorded customized button that can be recorded and activated at the press of button to post production. 6 kinds of voice changing modes change your output style. 12 auto tune changes the tone of your voice. The podcast mixer being able to add different and fun effects is a huge bonus for your streaming or game voice.
- [Controllable Vibrant RGB] RGB button on the audio mixer DJ meets different live streaming themes. Lights on the video mixer is vibrant but not harsh on your eyes. Flowing or frozen RGB color rotation in a decent pace presents a greatly strong impression as a "light show" to your audience. Even a streaming equipment accessory will not be dull looking when video production.
No. 2
FIFINE PC Audio Mixer for Recording Music, USB Interface for Streaming and Podcasting with XLR, Monitor, 48V Phantom Power, Gain Knob, for Instrument Guitar/Video Content Creation/Vocal-Ampli 1
- [Improved Sound Quality] The PC audio mixer comes with one XLR microphone interface and one instrument interface. The two input interface aims to elevate your recording or instrument creation to studio-level performance. The audio interface delivers original sound reproduction that captures every nuance for your podcasting.
- [XLR Microphone Interface] Equipped with XLR microphone interface, the recording audio interface grant you the freedom to connect your XLR microphone to capture studio-grade vocals. Enjoy convenience of 48V phantom power for directly using with condenser microphone and an intuitive mic gain knob to fine-tune input levels.
- [Instrument Input and Audio Output] Whether you're a guitarist or bassist, the podcast mixer get you covered. Connect dedicated instrument input and experience rich and authentic tones. Audio output with a separate volume knob ensures precise control over playback levels.
- [Direct Monitor Functionality] Stay in control of your sound with the direct monitor featured on the vocal audio interface. Adjust the volume using the dedicated monitoring knob, allowing you to monitor your recordings in real-time.
- [Compatibility and User-Friendly] Compatibility of the audio mixer ensures smooth operation with both Mac and PC, and you can connect with instrument while the plug-and-play functionality makes installation a breeze.
No. 3
4 Channel Professional Audio Mixer with 4 MIC/LINE Inputs, 5-Band EQ, 99DSP Effects, USB Playback/Recording, +48V Phantom Power for Musicians Live Streaming DJ Podcasting Home Studio(AG-4K)
- [Versatile MIC/LINE Inputs]:4 Channel Professional Audio Mixer Equipped with four XLR/TRS combo jacks with adjustable GAIN, 2-band EQ (HF/LF), PAN, and PEAK indicators, this mixer handles microphones, instruments, and line sources with ease. Suitable for singers and small bands performing in rehearsal rooms or live bars.
- [99DSP Effects for Vocal & Karaoke]:Built-in 99 DSP effects—including reverb, echo, room, and vocal presets—allow precise effect control through individual FX sends and an FX master fader. Ideal for Karaoke hosts and vocal performers in parties or entertainment venues.
- [5-Band Graphic EQ for Sound Shaping]:The 70Hz / 200Hz / 1kHz / 5kHz / 12kHz 5-band graphic equalizer lets users tailor overall tone for different acoustic spaces, enhancing clarity for conference speakers or home studio creators.
- [USB Play/Record for Streaming & DJ Use]:The USB interface supports MP3 playback, U-disk input, and computer recording/playback, with an independent USB volume fader for accurate control. Great for DJs, podcasters, and online streamers working in home studios or digital content setups.
- [Professional Output Control]:Features +48V phantom power for condenser mics, XLR MAIN OUT for balanced connections, and an independent PHONES output with level control for real-time monitoring. Designed for event hosts, live technicians, and small venue audio setups.
No. 4
MAONO Podcast Equipment Bundle: Audio Interface mixer with Dual XLR Input for Podcast Streaming - MaonoCaster E2 Gen2
- Upgraded Podcast Equipment Bundle: Elevate your podcasting, streaming, and studio recording with the E2 Gen2 podcast equipment bundle. This all-in-one solution offers an intuitive design that allows you to start your podcasting journey right away. With two XLR combo inputs and a high-quality preamp offering 60dB gain, E2 GEN2 is perfect for co-hosts. Plus, the USB-C and 3.5mm ports make it easy to connect to phones and computers, ensuring smooth and clear audio every time
- Crystal-Clear Audio with XLR Interface: The E2 Gen2 podcast interface has two premium and low-noise preamps, delivering up to 60dB of gain. This ensures you get rich, clean sound even when using dynamic microphones. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, the E2 gen2 eliminates needing an external preamp. Noise reduction technology keeps unwanted sounds like fan noise away, so your podcast recordings stay pristine
- Add Personality with 8 Custom Sound Effects: Bring your content to life with the E2 gen2's 8 customizable sound effect buttons. Perfect for podcasters and streamers, you can upload your favorite intro music, quirky sound bites, or custom effects to engage your audience. Each button supports up to 20 seconds of recording with adjustable volume, making it the ultimate podcast mixer to add personality to your shows
- Ultimate Convenience for Podcasters and Content Creators: The E2 Gen2 podcast mixer features a one-touch mute button, so you can easily handle any mishaps during podcast recording. The monitoring button lets you listen to your own voice while gaming, allowing seamless communication with teammates and clear game audio. The Loopback function enables you to start a live stream with just one computer. Plus, the built-in 1500mA battery offers up to 8 hours of use, so your podcast never has to stop
- Enhance Your Podcast Atmosphere: Add flair to your podcast with E2 Gen2’s pitch-changing effects. Whether creating a fun atmosphere or protecting your privacy, the interface's versatile options let you adjust your voice for added entertainment. Choose from six preset reverbs to set the perfect mood for any show. SingAlong mode even allows you to hear the singing without your audience hearing it, letting you shine as a performer
No. 5
PUPGSIS Gaming Audio Mixer, Audio Interface for PC/Podcast/Streaming, Sound Board with 3.5mm/XLR Mic Input, 48V Phantom Power, Voice Changer, Live Sound Card with DJ Mixer Effects/Bluetooth/4 Channel
- Power Up Your Voice: Equipped with a professional preamplifier and 48V phantom power, the audio mixer works perfectly with your favorite XLR microphone to deliver high-quality audio. The clear audio output and fun sound effects fully immerse listeners in your streaming, quickly boosting your popularity. Flexible volume control ensures the sound is neither too loud nor too soft. Even in intense gaming battles, you can communicate effectively with your teammates and help your team win.
- Customize Your Audio: This gaming audio mixer features six voice-changing modes, allowing you to easily experiment with different sounds or add a touch of humor to your games. With four customizable soundpads, you can add and trigger your favorite sound effects on the spot, bringing increased creativity and interaction to your gaming or streaming. Additionally, 2 reverb presets offer a fresh audio experience, helping you present the best voice state in more scenarios.
- Individual Channel Controls: The DJ mixer has a simple and intuitive interface for easy operation. Four smooth volume faders independently control the levels for Mic 1, Mic 2/Mic of headset, Aux/Bluetooth and Line Out channels. The display provides a clear view of the current volume levels at a glance. Whether you’re streaming or recording, the entire process is effortless and enjoyable, allowing you to focus on content creation rather than technical details. Simplify your streaming journey.
- Instant Mute & Real-Time Monitoring: Our audio mixer has zero latency monitoring and one-touch mute function, helping you avoid embarrassing live mishaps and ensuring your sound is always optimal. The unique monitoring design allows you to turn off microphone monitoring and focus solely on background sounds without interference from your own voice. During games, it helps you attentively listen to teammates' voices and ambient sounds so that you can spot enemy footsteps in time.
- Exceptional Compatibility: The sound board has a clear interface that is widely compatible with phones, computers and tablets. It supports up to 3 microphone audio inputs (mic 1, mic 2, mic of headset), allowing 3 people to stream, record or game simultaneously. Whether you're on OBS, Discord, Twitch, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, Spotify or Zoom, you'll be able to create audio without hassle and enjoy a smooth recording experience.
No. 6
Podcast Microphone Bundle with Live Sound Board Audio Mixer, Podcast Equipment Bundle with 3.5mm Condenser Microphone(P15) for Pc/Phone Live Streaming Singing Gaming, Voice Changer, Denoise
- 【Podcast Equipment Bundle】The podcast microphone bundle includes everything you need for professional-quality audio creation: a 3.5mm condenser microphone with a disk bracket and the G10 Sound Board. Perfect for podcasters, gamers, streamers, and content creators who want an all-in-one solution for mixing, recording, and streaming.
- 【Sound Board for 3.5mm/6.35mm Dynamic/48V Microphone】No complicated setup required! Just plug the live sound card into your PC, Mac, or mobile device, and start streaming or recording right away. This pod cast equipment kit is designed to make your audio experience seamless and easy.
- 【3.5mm Podcast Microphone with Disk Bracket】The included 3.5mm streaming microphone is designed for clear, reliable sound capture. Combined with the boom arm, you can position your streaming mic perfectly for optimal sound quality, while saving space and reducing clutter.
- 【Customizable Sound Effects & Voice Control】Take full control of your sound with customizable settings for bass, treble, reverb, pitch, and more. Plus, the soundboard offers 16 built-in sound effects, like applause and laughter, to make your streams more engaging and entertaining.
- 【Clear Sound with Built-in Noise Reduction】Achieve crystal-clear audio with the audio mixer for pc’s advanced noise reduction technology. Whether you’re podcasting or streaming live, your voice will always be crisp and professional, eliminating unwanted background noise.
No. 7
MAONO Gaming Audio Mixer, Audio Interface with Pro-preamp, RGB, Bluetooth, 48V Phantom Power for Live Streaming, Podcasting, Content Create, Gaming MaonoCaster G1 NEO (Not for USB Mic)
- Essential Kit for Streaming Setup: MAONOCASTER G1 NEO is the essential gear for gamers and up-and-coming streamers diving into the world of gaming streaming. This gaming mixer not only delivers outstanding sound performance but also integrates customized sound effects and captivating RGB lighting to immerse you in gaming or streaming. Its compact design and user-friendly interface provide an enjoyable and easier gaming experience, making it easier for you to achieve victory
- Enhance Your Voice: Build in Pro-preamp and 48V phantom power to fully unleash the potential of your XLR microphone, allowing you to quickly and easily achieve the high-quality audio typically associated with streaming setups. The perfect coordination of gain and volume can allow your teammates to hear a sufficiently loud sound. Just one-click noise reduction ensures clear audio for your teammates whether strategizing with them or interacting with viewers during live streams
- Customize Your Sound Effect: The voice change feature allows you to bring a whole new dimension to your gaming streams, you can become the female, male, baby, or robot, creating an engaging and entertaining experience for your viewers. Utilize custom sound pads to create your voice tag, quickly increase popularity, unleash potential, and expand your audience reach. You can even use the reverb and sidechain features to sing a song to your teammates, and they will be amazed by your singing
- Make Streaming Easy: Intuitive and user-friendly interface to keep focus on gaming or content creation without any unnecessary distractions. With Bluetooth accompaniment input, you can create livelier and more engaging live streams. Enjoy the ease of one-click mute and Loopback for added freedom during game streaming. One-click direct monitor activation, effortlessly achieving real-time audio; specially designed power switches make your usage more convenient
- Stunning RGB: Achieve 12 different color variations by customizing buttons and body light strips with RGB solid colors, gradients, and rainbow RGB effects, perfectly complementing the aesthetics of your game room. Easily immerse yourself in the gaming atmosphere even as you load your game, enhancing the immersive experience during live streams
No. 8
MAONO Podcast Equipment Bundle Audio mixer All-in-One Podcast Production Studio with 3.5mm Microphone for Live Streaming, Recording, PC, Smartphone, DJ MaonoCaster Lite (AU-AM200-S1)
- ALL IN ONE and EASY TO USE: Works as an audio mixer station. Integrating audio mixing equipment into 1 comprehensive solution. It delivers superb sound quality and offers intuitive and full control to optimize vocal and sound effects. The S1 podcast equipment bundle comes with a condenser microphone that lets you start podcasting, live streaming,dj easily in no time. Start recording when you plug into the smartphone or PC
- SPECIAL EFFECTS: Four user recordable, eight Built-in special audio effects, and various adjustments available for your creation. Fixed audio effects like APPLAUSE, LAUGHTER, CHEERING...Note please record your own audio effects you like to audio mixer according to the instructions
- BORN FOR LIVE STREAMING: MAONO podcast equipment soundboard supports up to 2 people, 4 devices, and 4 platforms to stream simultaneously. Highlights of this set, you can change your voice to the male, female, or girlish, robot. With two mic inputs, One Accompaniment input, and real-time monitoring, good noise reduction effect after pressing the DENOISE button. It is compatible with IOS and Android systems
- START YOUR CONCERT: 10-step reverb & 12-step electronic music & 3 modifiable tones (Treble, mid-range, bass) make this audio interface more entertaining and meet more live recording needs. Please note: connecting instruments such as guitars and keyboards requires an additional 6.35 mm- 3.5 mm adapter (not included in the package). For optimal guitar/amplifier performance, we recommend the [PS22 Lite] audio interface
- PACKAGE LIST: 1* MIC, 1* Mic Cable, 1* Mic tripod, 1* windscreen muff, 1* Audio mixer, 1* Charging cable, 2* 3.5mm TRRS Audio Cable, 1* User manual. For a better user experience, please download more instructions below and read the user manual before setting up. Maonocaster Lite AM200 only supports 3.5mm microphone input and does not support phantom power. The included microphone is forbidden to be used with phantom power. Note: Audio Interface size measures 9.45*5.51*1.65inch" (24*14*4.2cm). Please check dimensions against your workspace
Choosing Your Perfect Audio Mixer for Podcasting
Starting a podcast is exciting! A good audio mixer helps your show sound professional. This guide will help you pick the right one. Think of a mixer as the control board for all your microphones and sounds.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a mixer, check these important parts:
- Number of Inputs: How many microphones do you need to plug in? If you podcast alone, two inputs might be enough. If you have guests, look for four or more.
- Preamps (Preamplifiers): These small gadgets make your microphone signal louder and clearer. Good preamps mean better sound quality. Look for mixers with high-quality, low-noise preamps.
- USB Connectivity: Most modern mixers connect directly to your computer using USB. This lets you record your audio straight into your podcast software.
- Built-in Effects (FX): Some mixers offer simple effects like reverb (a slight echo). These can add polish to your voice, but they are not always necessary for beginners.
- Headphone Jacks: You must be able to hear yourself and your guests clearly. Make sure the mixer has at least one, but preferably two or more, headphone jacks.
Materials Matter
The materials used in a mixer affect how long it lasts and how it feels. Most good mixers use sturdy metal casings. This metal protects the delicate electronics inside. Plastic knobs and sliders are common, but metal ones often feel more reliable when you turn them.
Factors That Boost or Hurt Your Sound Quality
The mixer heavily influences how good your podcast sounds. Good mixers improve quality. Bad ones can hurt it.
What Boosts Quality?
- Clean Preamps: As mentioned, clear preamps capture your voice without adding unwanted noise (hiss).
- Good Faders/Knobs: Smooth, precise controls allow you to adjust volume levels perfectly during recording.
- Direct Monitoring: This lets you hear your voice instantly through headphones without any delay (latency).
What Reduces Quality?
- Noise Floor: Cheap mixers often create a low, constant buzzing or hissing sound, even when nothing is speaking. This is called a high noise floor.
- Poor A/D Converters: When the mixer changes the sound signal into digital data for your computer, poor converters add distortion.
User Experience and Use Cases
How easy is the mixer to use? This depends on what you plan to do.
For Beginners (Solo Podcasters):
You need something simple. Look for a small, USB-powered mixer with two or three channels. Setup should be plug-and-play. You want to spend time talking, not fiddling with settings.
For Growing Shows (Multiple Guests):
If you have regular in-person guests, you need more inputs and better routing options. You might also need features that allow you to mix in music or sound effects easily.
For Remote Interviews:
Some mixers have special features to handle phone calls or remote guests connected via a computer. These features make sure the remote person sounds clear, too.
Always check reviews to see how users find the setup process. A mixer that is too complicated will slow down your recording time.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Audio Mixers for Podcasting
Q: Do I really need an audio mixer if I use a USB microphone?
A: Not always. USB microphones handle the basic conversion themselves. Mixers become necessary when you need to connect multiple XLR microphones, add sound effects, or need more control over your audio levels.
Q: What is the difference between a mixer and an audio interface?
A: An audio interface usually just converts analog sound to digital for the computer. A mixer does that conversion *and* offers physical controls (faders, knobs) to blend multiple sound sources together before sending them to the computer.
Q: Should I buy a mixer with built-in recording capability?
A: Some mixers record directly to an SD card. This is great for backup or if you cannot use a computer. However, most podcasters prefer recording directly onto their computer software for easier editing.
Q: What is phantom power, and why do I need it?
A: Phantom power (usually labeled +48V) is a small electrical charge sent from the mixer to certain microphones, specifically condenser microphones. If you use a condenser mic, your mixer must have phantom power.
Q: How many channels should my first mixer have?
A: For a standard two-person interview, a 2-channel mixer works. If you might add a third person or music later, getting a 4-channel mixer gives you room to grow.
Q: Are more expensive mixers always better?
A: Usually, yes. More expensive mixers offer better quality preamps, quieter operation, and more durable construction. However, a mid-range mixer often provides excellent quality for most standard podcasts.
Q: Can I use my mixer for live streaming?
A: Yes! Many modern mixers connect easily to a computer via USB, allowing you to send your perfectly mixed audio straight to streaming software like OBS or Streamlabs.
Q: What is “gain staging”?
A: Gain staging means setting the input volume (gain) correctly for each microphone so that the sound is loud enough but does not “clip” (distort). This must be done on the mixer before recording.
Q: Do I need special cables for my mixer?
A: Microphones usually connect using XLR cables (the three-pronged type). If you connect to external gear, you might use 1/4-inch TRS cables. Always check what inputs your mixer and microphones require.
Q: How do I connect my mixer to my computer?
A: Most modern mixers connect using a standard USB cable (like a USB-B cable). Once plugged in, your computer recognizes the mixer as an external sound card, allowing you to select it in your recording software.