Once upon a time, analog mixer solutions reigned supreme in their category. Then digital models appeared, and a conditional struggle began. Today there are worthy models among analog and digital models, and the range of devices in terms of scale and purpose is practically unlimited. This means that it is wrong to name a particular category of devices better or more relevant. It all depends on the situation. Today we will give some examples of models of good analog and digital live and studio mixers that are relevant for 2020. But first, we suggest deciding on the pros and cons of both categories, as well as the main differences between mixers and audio interfaces.
Mixer vs. Audio interface
First, let’s understand when and who needs a mixing console for studio work and live performances. Speaking very generally, it is designed for more ambitious and professional tasks in comparison with the audio interface.
An audio interface is a gadget that captures sound from multiple places at once. It connects to the computer through a USB. Each sound source stays separate, so they don’t blend together. With programs, you can control how loud each source is and its quality. This is important when recording music or vocals. The interface lets you adjust the volume to suit your preferences. Recording with an audio interface and editing the sound with software ensures the music sounds good. However, it doesn’t offer any extra benefits compared to a live sound mixer.
The mixer combines different parts of the audio signal together and allows you to individually control multiple inputs and outputs. This is a device that mixes sounds from different inputs before it enters any recorder or speakers. Thus, mixed audio tracks lose their personality and become part of the stereo output. Recording processing will no longer be possible here, except for increasing the volume of all stereo sound.
Digital vs. Analog
Digital mixers are considered a more modern solution, but analog mixer remain a little more popular even today. It is important to compare two categories of equipment for the main pros and cons.
Despite the development of digital technology, analog remotes are still the most popular and in demand, especially in the low and middle price segment. Modern mixers of this type cope with the simplest sound processing at a conference or amateur concert, or in a professional studio.
Analog devices are pretty easy to understand. In most devices, different parts control different aspects of sound, which makes it easier to remember. This mixer can be used by both experienced older folks and young beginners. We also consider how easy it is to design and fix. If something minor breaks, you can usually fix it yourself. Analog models also last a long time and are dependable.
At the same time, analog mixers have a lot of weight and dimensions, and automation of many processes is impossible, which takes extra time from the sound engineer.
Digital devices have benefits like being lightweight and small, doing tasks automatically, and easily connecting with other devices. However, they can be harder to set up and manage because of their specific interfaces. They’re also pricier and trickier to fix if something goes wrong. Plus, if one part breaks, the whole device might become useless.
List of analog and digital mixers that are worth buying in 2020
Yamaha MG16XU
Yamaha MG16XU does not have modern features, but offers the most basic, proven ones. The audio mixer is equipped with a DSP effects processor, 6 inputs and a USB interface (as an external sound card). A budget device is capable of simultaneously playing music from third-party devices and recording it in a channel. The user controls the balance and sensitivity. A simple DSP processor delivers 100 effects. There are outputs for 2 mono and 2 stereo channels.
Devices for playing and recording music are connected to the mixing console. Subsequently, the user can send sound to the headphones and adjust the volume according to their preference. Notably, changes in settings are clearly indicated by LEDs, ensuring seamless operation. Moreover, the device is designed to occupy minimal space, making it particularly suitable for small studios.
The Yamaha MG16XU boasts clear controls and an ergonomic button layout, facilitating ease of use. Noteworthy is its high regard among DJs and musicians alike. Additionally, it seamlessly connects to the iPad, offering users access to a free app downloadable from the App Store.
Features: 16-Input 6 Bus Mixer Analog mixer with Compression, Effects, USB, Rack Kit and Senor Instrument Cables and Microphone Cables
Pros: Flexible connection settings, simplicity, low price
Cons: Lack of advanced features
Yamaha MG12XU
The compact analog budget model is optimal as a compact solution for amateur use. The digital mixer is in demand among beginner musicians, during small concerts, in small studios. 4 monophonic inputs with preamps are built into the housing. It is possible to record sound directly to the remote. Equalizers and low-pass filters squeeze the most out of music. The AUX send channel provides a simple effect application.
Both condenser and dynamic microphones are connected to the digital device. The device itself is powered from a conventional outlet through an external unit. It is suitable for mastering basic functions, it will not confuse beginners with a multitude of buttons and obscure definitions. The remote control provides for the installation of models: USB player, recorder and Bluetooth. A digital effects processor is available, although it is not as powerful as professional instruments.
Features: 12-Input 4-Bus Mixer with Effects
Pros: basic set of functions for a novice musician, affordable price, compact format
Allen & Heath ZED60-10FX
The model is a bestseller of the brand and one of the most popular remotes in the world. This is the best solution for DJs, sound engineers, large and small studios. Two channels have high resistance and replace the Di-box. They are added specifically to achieve the sound of a classic preamp. The digital mixing system has 16 high-quality effects and a decent ZED FX processor. This model has been on the market for many years and maintains a high level of competitiveness.
Allen & Heath zed60-10fx is especially popular with guitarists. Mono channels uses several levels of pickups; musical instruments are connected directly to the remote control. There are inputs for MP3 / CD players and various keyboards. Among the additional functions, monitoring of what is happening and speakers stand out. Since the device is professional, built-in XLR stereo outputs. Allen & Heath is one of the most trusted companies in the world, and in many respects the reputation is deserved thanks to the release of this model.
Features: 4 mono, 2 stereo, USB, Neutrik XLR and 1/4 inch connectors, Lo-cut filter for cleaning unwanted low-frequency noise, 2-band equalizer on stereo channels, flexible signal monitoring
Pros: versatility, dense and rich sound, high build quality
Cons: sometimes quick non-critical breakdowns of individual components are observed
Alto ZMX52
The perfect combination of price and quality for those who are looking for the lowest price mixer for live. ALTO ZMX52 is designed for amateur performances, small presentations and home parties. Despite the low cost, the model provides high-quality sounding. This compact analog tool has small dimensions and it can be placed in a bag. Visually simple controls help beginners get comfortable. 5 channels: one works in mono and 2 in stereo. The device has a low noise level and high-quality assembly. The buttons illuminate the LEDs.
The analog console provides 48V power, meanwhile, the sensitivity is controlled by the GAIN knob. Additionally, each stereo channel has a calibration of volume and balance, as well as peak indicators. Moreover, you can connect speakers, headphones, and recording devices to the device. Notably, the ALTO ZMX52 is equipped with digital marking for easy control. Furthermore, the kit includes detailed instructions with all the functions outlined. However, due to its limited functions, the device may not be suitable for everyday professional tasks.
Features: Mono channel with microphone input, balanced TPC input, 2-band equalizer, 2 stereo channels with TRS balanced inputs and a separate stereo input with RCA connectors for connecting an external player
Pros: perfect combination of price and quality at a very low price, portability
Cons: limited user options
Yamaha TF1
A powerful modern mixer for live and studio for true professionals. The mixing console provides a complete set of studio and concert functions, meeting the quality of its well-known manufacturer. Modern design gives the sound engineer advanced authority and he can create music, like an artist. Using the new TouchFlowOperation technology allows user to connect music and voice from the stage together, providing an increase in the speed of interaction and improving concert sound amplification. Not all old-school sound engineers will immediately understand the possibilities.
Features: 16 analog XLR inputs, 17 motorized faders, expansion slot for NY64-D audio interface card, DCA groups with Roll-out
Pros: reliability, manufacturability, versatility
Cons: difficult to understand
Mackie 402 VLZ 4
An innovative live mixing console that has low noise and high dynamic range. Engineers have achieved a new level of quality models. The channels are equipped with a low-pass filter. In addition, the Onyx preamps were specifically invented for this model. The body of the device is made using the “Built-Like-A-Tank” technology. He is not afraid of dust and dirt. Maximum portable.
Features: 4-channel compact mixer, 2 Onyx “boutique” microphone preamps, ultra-wide 60dB preamp range, dust and dirt protection
Pros: portability, reliability
Cons: modest functionality
Avid S6L-32D-192
The device is designed for the modern live parties. The consoles consist of high-resolution OLED displays that are visible even in bright conditions. The developers took into account all the requests for modern mixers. The console can use previously recorded tracks for more precise tuning. Due to the sensitive integration with Pro Tools, the S6L is an ideal interface in the Avid MediaCentral platform. The modular system supports DANTE, MADI, Thunderbolt and other popular technologies.
Features: 4 x 12 ″ touch screen HD monitors, 8XLR, MIC / LINE analog inputs with phantom power and signal presence indication, 96 kHz sampling frequency
Pros: manufacturability, will satisfy any professional needs, many unique features
Cons: complexity
Yamaha MG06X
Very affordable and very high quality model for your attention. It should be specially noted that the MG series is not much more expensive than the Chinese counterparts at the price, but surpasses them in quality and reliability. The main advantage of analog remotes is uninterrupted operation in harsh field conditions, resistance to shocks and falls. Here, the bet is made specifically on the body of steel, instead of aluminum. The MG-Series device frame can even withstand knocks on the controllers. Placing the handles above the surface of the enclosure protects internal components by absorbing shock or pressure from the handles themselves. The chassis of the mixers is made of steel with a high-quality powder dye that will not peel off and will not paint over. Older models can be mounted in a rack, while younger ones have an optional accessory for mounting on a microphone stand.
Features: SPX: 6 modes, 3 reverse + 3 delay, phantom power +48 V, preamplifiers D-PRE, operational amplifier MG01 with optimization for professional audio equipment
Pros: best price-functionality, high build quality, reliability, portability
Cons: obsolete operational amplifiers
Pioneer DJM-2000 nexus
A multifunctional live model for DJs with great potential, which is Pioneer’s flagship four-channel mixer. Users highly appreciate the model for cross-platform and performance, as well as high-quality implementation of many add-ons and options.
Central to the features of this model is Pro DJ Link, which provides advanced synchronization between the mixer and other devices, such as CDJ-2000 nexus players and laptops with Rekordbox software. The DJM-2000 also features a Beat Slice touch for quick rearrangement of tracks.
In addition, the Pioneer DJM-2000 nexus mixer has a built-in eight-channel sound card, MIDI functionality to control external software and an impressive range of high-quality DJ effects.
Features: the ability to connect up to 4 players, a turntable, or two computers, creating and playing mixes in real time, built-in USB sound card, 5.8-inch LCD multi-touch screen
Pros: a large set of functions for live performance, ample opportunity to synchronize with external devices
Cons: reasonably high price
Conclusion
As can be seen from the models presented in the list, the choice should be made based on the needs of the user. Here’s a lot of good tools from 4 to 32 channels and more. It matters whether a beginner or a professional works in the studio, at concerts, or acts as a DJ on his own. The main thing is to pay attention to trusted brands and popular models of analog and digital mixers in the first place. We hope this article will help everyone understand the priorities.
In the grand symphony of sound mixing, analog and digital mixers harmonize to meet diverse needs. From Yamaha to Pioneer, each model offers a unique melody. Whether you’re a budding musician or a seasoned pro, there’s a mixer tailored for you. So, tune into your requirements and let the music play! Remember, it’s not about the name, but finding the right rhythm for your sound journey. Happy mixing!