If you are on the internet searching for the best audio mixer for podcasting, it means you want a degree of quality in your podcast recording setup. It is known that podcasting is one of the easiest and cheapest side hustles to start in 2023.

It is as easy as downloading an app on your phone, hitting the play button, and start speaking. However, even if you started podcasting with just your phone, it is a good idea to scale the quality of your productions so you can keep existing subscribers and attract new ones.

As a matter of fact, lots of beginners do not know the right gear to buy in order to scale the quality of their podcast production. Should you buy a mixer, an audio interface, or both?

Not long into your podcasting journey, you may begin to desire an upgrade even if you don’t yet have regular listeners. You may just be enjoying your podcasting craft so much that you want to push your production quality higher.

There is nothing wrong with this and there are a couple of good reasons why you should consider buying a podcast mixer. Here are some of those reasons

Before I dive into the reasons why you need a mixer for podcasting, I have to mention that it will do you a world of good if you first

Gain the attention of a crop of loyal listeners who like your content.
Be sure you are comfortable with the art of podcasting and there are noticeable indications that you are in for the long haul.

It is at this point that adding a mixer to your setup is justifiable.

Why should I get a Mixer for Podcasting?

Do you see those little control knobs on the mixer? They look cool, right? They are meant to help you control your output right on the spot. In other words, a mixer basically helps you improve the sound quality of your production.

Within the podcasting community, it is a common joke that podcasters see podcast mixers in pictures more than in real life. The truth is if your podcast does not involve broadcasting live sessions, buying a podcast mixer is a decision you leave for later.

Without beating around the bush, the paramount reason why you should get a mixer for podcasting is to give you more control over your audio during a live recording session.

Although, if you already have a very good podcast microphone, the addition of a mixer might not necessarily make much difference but considering the degree of efficiency a mixer can bring to your podcasting workflow, I’d still recommend it any day or time.

So, as a podcaster, here are some of the reasons why you need a mixer for podcasting

XLR Microphones

XLR which stands for External Line Return, is a type of electrical connector found primarily in professional audio, video, and stage lighting equipment. A podcast microphone that makes use of XLR cables needs a mixer for you to fully maximize its quality. While you have the option of using an XLR to USB converter, this setup won’t also allow you to fully take advantage of the quality of your XLR mic. A mixer is the best option in this case.

Control Several Channels During Production

Imagine you want to record an interview session with two guests while a background track is also playing. Without a mixer, you’d have to record all your audio in one channel. That simply means you will have no control over the volume of their voices. With a mixer, you can pass each audio input through different channels. You will be able to lower the volume of guests who speak too loudly and raise the volume of less vocal guests. A mixer for podcasting gives massive control. You’ll be able to make all of these while you’re recording. Isn’t that cool?

Dependability for File Backup

Your podcast mixer gives excellent dependability for file backup. Unlike computers, mixers don’t crash. Therefore, if you are using a mixer that outputs into a digital recording software on your computer, a mixer offers you extra storage of files without any stress.

A must-have for a live show

This somehow connects with the other points I mentioned earlier. If you are running a live podcast, then a mixer becomes a must-have for your production. A live podcast means you’ll have a need to connect one or more microphones, play music, receive phone calls, play sound loops, and so on. In this case, you need no post-production. You present the show live and that’s it. If you’re recording remotely, I mean if you’re recording a remote guest, using a mixer for podcasting even makes more sense.

However, as a substitute, a digital mixer software you can use in place of a hardware mixer is the Spreaker app but I don’t recommend it as it is not so dependable. Again, you can make use of these in the early days of your podcasting journey.

Mix-Minus

Mix minus technique makes it possible to record or conduct a podcasting session with a co-host remotely using Zoom or Skype, without losing audio quality. To avoid echoes and horrible feedback by virtue of your co-host hearing themselves back, you can manipulate the FX such that you send them your voice, the music, and other inputs minus their own voice. This way, they will be able to hear everything else but won’t be able to listen to themselves on the mixer.

best budget mixer for podcasting (under $100)?

The following are my suggestion for the best budget audio mixer on the market. Despite their price, you can connect multiple audio sources.

1. Pyle Professional Audio Mixer Sound Board Console PMXU63BT

The Pyle Audio Mixer PMXU63BT is a great choice for podcasters who are looking for an easy-to-use and affordable mixer. This mixer has a variety of features that make it a great option for anyone who is looking to start podcasting or improve their current setup. The mixer is compatible with USB, flash reader, or mp3 devices, which makes it easy to connect your external devices and get started recording. The mixer also has Bluetooth wireless streaming capability, which allows you to stream music from your iPad, iPhone, or Android device directly to the mixer. Additionally, the Mixer has XLR and unbalanced 1/4″ inputs, making it compatible with a variety of microphones and other audio devices. Finally, the Mixer comes with a 100-240V multi-voltage power supply, making it ideal for worldwide use.

The price of this mixer is around $100 dollars which makes it an absolute steal for the price and a quick go-to mixer for beginner podcasters who are looking to improve the quality of their production.

2. Pyle Sound 4 or 6-Channel Bluetooth Studio Mixer

My second pick is another Pyle product. Pyle has been a leader in sound engineering for over 35 years, and their Mixer for Podcasting is just another example of why Pyle is one of the most trusted names in audio production. With its multi-channel sound source mixing, you can mix microphone audio and instrument like a guitar/keyboard into one output signal. The built-in Bluetooth receiver allows for easy streaming from any compatible device, giving you great wireless streaming capability. The USB Interface makes it easy to connect to your computer or flash drive allowing access to MP3 digital audio files. With all these features and more, this Mixer for Podcasting will help take your podcasting skills to the next level.

Take your podcasting skills to the next level with this Mixer for Podcasting from Pyle. With its multi-channel sound source mixing and built-in Bluetooth receiver, it is perfect for creating professional-sounding podcasts. The USB Interface makes connecting to your computer or flash drive easy. At the same time, the rotary knobs and LED indicator lights allow you to easily adjust the gain, high, low, FX/send, and pan tone of each channel independently. The Mixer also features +48V phantom power and a wall power adapter for reliable power sources.

The Pyle Sound 6 Channel Bluetooth Studio Mixer is perfect for podcasting because it has multiple inputs and a built-in Bluetooth receiver.
This mixer also has a USB interface, which allows you to easily connect it to your computer or flash drive.
With this mixer, you can easily control the sound of your podcasts with its rotary knobs and LED indicator lights.
You can also adjust the gain, high, low, FX/send, and pan tone of each channel independently.
The mixer also features an LCD digital display with an ID3 tag readout which displays song titles and artists.
With +48V phantom power and a wall power adapter, you can have a reliable power source for your podcasting needs.
Mix all your audio sources together to create a professional-sounding podcast with this Pyle Sound 6-Channel Bluetooth Studio Mixer!

best mixer for podcasting (over $100)?

1. Zoom PodTrak P8 Podcast Recorder

For podcasters who want the most out of their podcasts, the Zoom PodTrak P8 Podcast Recorder is your perfect companion on every journey! With its intuitive design, a wide range of features, powerful preamps, and mix-minus capabilities, the PodTrak P8 is the ultimate Mixer for Podcasting. Make your next podcast shine and get creative with the Zoom PodTrak P8!

No matter what type of podcast you do, the Zoom PodTrak P8 Podcast Recorder will provide you with a high-quality recording experience and take your audio to the next level. From recording remote interviews to including sound effects in your production – with this Mixer for Podcasting you can make it happen!

Furthermore, with individual volume control, tone adjustments, and Mix-Minus features dialed in, your podcast will be crisp, clear, and ready for broadcast! Get creative and get the most out of your podcasts with the ZoomPodTrak P8 Podcast Recorder. Set it. Edit. Cast. Simple.

Some of the features that make the Zoom Podtrack P8 Podcast Recorder suitable for podcasting include

Six microphone inputs with phantom power
Individual volume control for each channel
Dedicated channel for recording remote interviews
The mix-minus function automatically prevents echo and feedback from callers’ phone
Tone adjustment to perfect your voice
Nine assignable sound pads with four banks
Touchscreen controls for ease of use
Limiter to prevent distortion
Color-coded inputs, outputs, and controls
Noise reduction to decrease background noise
Crystal-clear recording with up to 70dB of gain
Onboard editing functionality (trim, split, fade) or transfer Mix to computer via USB-C
4.3″ color LCD touchscreen display for easy access and control

2. Alesis MultiMix 4 USB FX

Audio mixers are tools that give podcast hosts and producers the ability to combine several audio tracks into one, high-quality recording. While some might think of music production when they hear “audio mixer,” these devices can be used for any type of vocal or instrument performance in need of an effective postproduction process such as those found on podcasts!

The Alesis MultiMix 4 USB FX is an excellent choice for podcasters who need a feature-packed mixer at an affordable price point. With its four channels and range of adjustable parameters, this mixer has everything you need to make professional-sounding podcasts with ease. Some of its key features include:

Individual volume, pan, and EQ controls for each channel
75Hz high-pass filter for reducing low-frequency rumble and handling noise
Two-channel, five-stage, multicolor LED meter for monitoring the main output level
Stereo 1/4″ headphone output with volume control
USB recording audio interface for recording low-noise mixes directly to your Mac or PC
iPad connections with Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit (sold separately)
High-quality Alesis DSP effects such as reverbs, delays, phasers, and more

With its four channels, high-quality audio effects, adjustable gain trims, and switchable phantom power supply, this compact mixer provides everything you need to get your podcasting projects off the ground.

The MultiMix 4 USB FX has all of the essential features that any serious podcaster needs in order to create professional mixes. The four input channels feature individual volume, pan, and EQ controls so you can make quick adjustments on the fly. Plus each channel also has a 75Hz high-pass filter for reducing low-frequency rumble and handling noise. For convenience, channels three and four are configured as a stereo pair with level and pan controls.

The built-in two-channel, five-stage, multicolor LED meter allows you to easily monitor the main output level without any guesswork. In addition, the mixer has a stereo 1/4″ headphone output for private monitoring with its own volume control. Not only does this help to ensure accurate levels when mixing but it also makes your job easier by providing more accurate feedback.

One of the cool features of the MultiMix 4 USB FX is its USB recording audio interface which lets you record low-noise mixes directly to your Mac or PC. Furthermore, you can use the USB connection to connect to your iPad for stereo recording with the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit.

Lastly, the MultiMix 4 USB FX also contains high-quality Alesis DSP effects that include reverbs, delays, phasers, and more. This means you can add ambiance to dry recordings or create lush mixes with minimal effort.

Rode RODECaster Pro

The RØDECaster Pro is the world’s most powerful all-in-one mixer for podcasting. It is the creme de la creme in the world of podcast mixers. It’s designed to offer superb audio quality and expansive features while being incredibly easy to use, making it the perfect tool for beginners and professionals alike.

Featuring four microphone inputs with studio-grade preamps for recording crystal-clear audio, smartphone, USB, and Bluetooth channels for seamlessly integrating remote guests, eight sound pads for triggering music and sound effects, powerful audio processing at the touch of a button and so much more, the RØDECaster Pro is all you will ever need to create incredible podcasts.

4 studio-grade XLR microphone inputs
8 programmable sound pads with 64 sound banks
Onboard audio processing with APHEX Aural Exciter and Big Bottom effects
Record in stereo or multitrack
Connect remotely via Bluetooth or TRRS cable
Mix-minus audio for preventing echo
Easy to use with intuitive controls and a full-color touchscreen display
Nine language options including English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.

The RØDECaster Pro Mixer for Podcasters is the perfect tool for anyone looking to get into podcasting. It’s incredibly easy to use and comes with a host of features that will make your podcasts sound incredible. With the features mentioned above, this mixer has everything you need to create professional-quality podcasts. You don’t even have to be tech-savvy to operate this device and start producing your best podcast episodes. So don’t miss out on this amazing piece of technology

Other high-end Mixers that fit into this category include

Behringer Xenyx Q502USB.
Behringer Xenyx Q802USB.
Yamaha ag06.
Yamaha mg10xu.
Mackie PROFX8v2.
Allen & Heath ZED-12FX.
Soundcraft Signature 12MTK.

FAQs about mixer for podcasting

What mixer is good for podcasts?

A good mixer for podcasting is one you can afford and suits your production setup. For beginners, the Pyle Professional Audio Mixer Sound Board Console PMXU63BT is a good option. For high-end production, the Rode RodeCaster Pro, and Rode RodeCaster Pro II are very good options for podcast recording or live-streaming sessions.

Do you need a mixer for the podcast?

If you use USB microphones, you do not need a mixer for podcasting. If you make use of XLR mics, you need an audio interface to record your podcast. In the grand scheme of things, a mixer is most needed for live streaming. However, if your goal is to have a high-end podcasting setup you can record your podcast with a mixer in your setup.

Can you use a mixer for podcasts?

Yes, you can use a mixer for podcasts. You can also use USB mics or an audio interface to record your podcast. Having a mixer in your setup gives you the flexibility of taking your podcast to the next level. You will be able to easily conduct live sessions, record remote sessions and so do so much more with a mixer.

Is there a mixer for USB mics?

There is no mixer for USB mics. However, there are dual-purpose USB/XLR mics that you can use alongside your mixer or audio interface whenever you upgrade

What is a good cheap audio mixer?

A good cheap audio mic is Pyle Professional Audio Mixer Sound Board Console PMXU63BT. It is below $100 and offers all the features you need to upgrade your setup and your podcast production quality.

What is the best beginner audio mixer?

The best beginner audio mixer is Pyle Professional Audio Mixer Sound Board Console PMXU63BT. It is below $100 and offers all the features you need to upgrade your setup and your podcast production quality.

What is an audio interface?

Standalone audio interfaces are a way of connecting your recording device to the computer to capture the sound that you hear when you start recording

Standalone audio interfaces are used in recording studios and podcast studios that have multiple analog sources such as microphones and instruments. The standalone audio interface is also used by musicians who want to record their songs in studio quality without a live band or engineers who want to record multiple tracks of audio simultaneously.

The best standalone audio interfaces for podcasting or music recording:

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2

Focusrite Clarett 4Pre

Steinberg UR22mkIIUSB/Firewire Audio & MIDI Interface with DSP Mixer and Mic Preamps

Final Thoughts

Podcasts have been around for quite a while, but they have never gone out of style. Similar to radio shows and other forms of broadcasting that air on television or radio waves, podcasts are in the form of audio recordings that can be listened to at convenient intervals like when someone is commuting to work, running on the treadmill, doing domestic chores, or taking a walk.

According to a credible source, Podcast statistics show that 82.4% of podcast listeners spend more than seven hours weekly listening to podcasts. This means that more than eight out of every 10 listeners spend over seven hours weekly listening to their favorite podcasts, as stated by Discover Pods

Podcasting is getting increasingly popular. The number of people downloading and listening to podcasts is on the rise each year. This may be because downloads of podcasts have recently been easier and more convenient as smartphones are able to provide quick access to tap into favorite podcast feeds. If you have unique ideas to share with the world, I suggest you start it now.

Conclusion

In this blog post, I have hinted that it is best that you allow your podcast to gain some listenership before you go ahead with upgrading your setup. I also mentioned the top reasons why a mixer is needed in your setup.

Whenever you are ready to buy a mixer for podcasting, I have recommended cheap options that are below $100 yet, gets the job done. I also recommended options that are less than $200 and other high-end mixers in the $300 to $500 range.

Is there a mixer suitable for podcasting that you think deserves a mention in this blog post? Drop it in the comment section, and let’s evaluate it.

Do you find the article helpful? Do you think there’s something missing? Let me know in the comment section as well.

I personally read and reply to every comment.

I believe if you stick around longer, there are many other resources you will find helpful.

Best Mixer for Podcasting in 2024