6. Quick Guide
AT HOME
For home use, you usually don't need many inputs, so signal processing doesn't have to be super complex either.
If you're mixing music from your computer, phone, and maybe even a turntable in your living room, a small DJ mixer should do the trick.
Compact DJ Mixer for Home Use
For karaoke nights, it's better to go for a simple analogue mixer with a built-in effects unit. There's a variety available in different sizes and qualities. With four microphones and playback from the TV, you won't need a huge professional setup.
Compact Analog Mixer with Built-in Effects Unit
REHEARSAL SPACE
Band members often encounter a mixer for the first time when setting up the rehearsal space. The size of the mixer depends on how many microphones and instruments need connecting, whether you're using conventional speakers or in-ear monitors, and what you aim to do with it. Of course, your available budget is crucial too.
Budget-Friendly Analogue "Rehearsal Room Mixer"
Here, you'll find everything from small, affordable analogue mixers with a few microphone inputs to full-fledged digital mixers for higher demands and budgets. If you're using the rehearsal space PA solely for vocals or connecting a few additional instruments, a small analogue mixer will suffice. On the other hand, a digital mixer is recommended if you need many inputs and outputs, such as for in-ear monitoring. If you also plan to record demos or need to save parameters because multiple bands share the same space, investing in a digital mixer often makes sense.
Compact and Affordable Digital Mixer with Various Options
HOME STUDIO
In professional settings, high-quality analogue mixers are often used to color recordings and give them a unique character. However, in project or home studios where space and budget matter, consider an analogue mixer with a USB multichannel interface or a digital mixer that might even allow control of the DAW (recording software). There are affordable entry-level solutions available, as well as (semi)professional mixers.
Small and Budget-Friendly Analog Mixer with High-Quality Preamps and Multichannel Interface
CLUB
In venues with a stage, providing a mixer for artists can be beneficial. Having a consistent mixer, especially when there's a house technician, can be appreciated.
Again, the number of required inputs and outputs, quality expectations, and budget will determine the size and type of mixer.
For classic stage setups, consider including a multicore system in your budget. Analogue mixers typically require the traditional multicore cable. Digital mixers often offer a suitable digital solution, usually connecting a stage box to the console using a network cable.
For more information on this topic, check out our online guide "Digital Mixers."
Digital Mixer with Matching Stage Box
