If you’ve been considering getting into DIY home recording, the odds are a good number of those tracks are being laid down in your living room or den, on a computer and a microphone, with a pair of headphones on your head and a mouse in your hand. With the advent of digital recording and the ease with which it can be applied, the home studio has gone from an extravagance for professional musicians to a viable option for just about anyone who has a computer.
However, there’s a big difference between doing a track on your computer and doing a track on a computer. The former is pretty straightforward—click record, sing into your computer’s microphone, and you’re recording. However, recording with a microphone connected requires an input from the outside world, which is where a good recording mixer comes in.
A good recording mixer will take a microphone signal and make it presentable to your computer, with a clean, clear sound and a volume level that can be controlled. But there are so many options out there, and not all of them are good. So we decided to do some research on the best unpowered recording mixers out there.
Read on to learn more about our favorite options.
Our Editor’s Best Unpowered Recording Mixers Reviews
- 8-channel USB Mixer with One-knob Compression
- 3-b EQ Per Channel
- 2 Aux Sends
- 2 Busses
- 99 DSP Effect：Professional 7-channel mixer has a built-in 99 DSP echo/delay sound effect processor, which creates more possibilities for your music and brings various changes to your sound.
- Convenient power supply：Power can be supplied by 2A 5V adapter, PC USB port or power bank.
- 5 Mono + 2 Stereo： 5 mono inputs support XLR (unbalanced 1/4 inch plug with 48V phantom power), 2A stereo, 6.3mm XLR, USB, Bluetooth input, RCA jack to connect various devices. For example, dynamic/condenser microphones, wireless microphone receivers, cell phones, computers, Gutiar, keyboards and other musical instruments.
- Convenient Bluetooth Connection - This mixer allows users to wirelessly stream music from pads, cell phones and computers to mix music (accompaniment).
- Package List: 1x audio mixer, 1 x Type C USB connection cable, 1 x charge, 1 x instruction manual, 1 x packing box
- 18x4 24-bit or 96 kHz, USB 2. 0 (over USB-C connection) audio recording interface; record every channel plus the main mix
- 2x2 SD recorder (record main mix); supports SD and SDHC formats up to 32 GB
- 18-channel analog mixer with 12 balanced microphone inputs with XMAX mic preamps plus two instrument inputs, 16 balanced line level inputs, 2 insert points, Stereo Super Channel (Ch. 17 or 18) with Bluetooth 5. 0 wireless, RCA inputs, 1 or 8-inch stereo input, and switchable SD or USB stereo playback, Stereo effects processor with 16 presets, dedicated send and return, and bypass footswitch jack
- Complete recording solution: Includes Capture live-recording software and Studio One Artist DAW for Mac and Windows
- Global plus 48V phantom power
- Specification: Brand: Micfuns Model: N7 Mixer Weight: 2.5kg Color: Black Material: Metal Channel Equalization: 7 Band
- 22-Input 2/2-Bus Analog Mixer with Xenyx Mic Preamps & Compresss
- 24-Bit Multi-FX Process USB/Audio Interface
- British EQs
- 10-Input Stereo Mixer with Effects
- Rugged, Powder-coated steel chassis for superior durability
- Discrete Class-A microphone preamps
- Built-in SPX digital effects with 24 programs
- Switchable +48V Phantom power
- 6 channel mixer with digital effects,4 mono MIC/LINE input, one pair RCA(stereo) input for audio device like audio player,IPAD, and TV (No USB)
- Featuring Hall grade PRE amps, providing natural sounding bass and smooth, soaring highs
- +48V PHANTOM POWER: Can power condenser microphone. Extremely high head room - offering more dynamic range Balanced inputs for highest signal integrity
- Ultra-musical 3-band EQ on all channels, can provide maximum control and eliminate unwanted noise, making the sound clearer, ideal for home party, karaoke, DJ event Note: Please refer to the user manual before use
- Built in digital multi effect (16 DSP), can provide better mixing effect. Separate Master Mix Outputs
- 4-Channel DJ Mixer for Live Performances & Mixing – The B4-live DJ mixer features four channels, perfect for blending and mixing audio from multiple sources, making it ideal for DJs at live events, clubs, and parties.
- Supports USB sticks formatted in FAT32 up to 256 MB (NFS and ExFAT not supported)
- Bluetooth 5.0 & USB Playback for Seamless DJ Sets – Stream music wirelessly via Bluetooth or play tracks directly from a USB stick(FAT32 SUPPORTED ONLY UP TO 256MB). The B4-live is the ultimate tool for DJs who need versatile playback options during their sets.
- 48V Phantom Power for Mic Integration – Designed for DJs and performers, the built-in +48V phantom power ensures you can connect high-quality condenser microphones for vocal performances and announcements with professional-grade audio clarity.
- Built-In Digital Effects for Custom DJ Mixes – Enhance your DJ sets with onboard digital effects, perfect for adding creative sound adjustments to vocals and instruments. Ideal for live performances, podcasts, and club events.
- SUPERIOR SOUND QUALITY: Experience exceptional audio with 24-bit/192kHz recording capability - perfect for live performances, home studios, and content creation
- ENHANCED CONTROL: Enjoy precise mixing with 14 Onyx mic preamps offering up to 60dB gain for ultra-clear sound plus a 14-band EQ and high pass filters to fine-tune your audio output
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY: Equipped with multiple inputs and outputs including XLR, 1/4" plugs, and RCA jacks, complemented by a Bluetooth connection for wireless streaming
- BUILT FOR PROFESSIONALS: Durable steel chassis with sealed controls ensures reliability in any environment, from studio sessions to live gigs
- EFFECTS AND CUSTOMIZATION: Integrated with 24 DSP effects ranging from reverbs to delays, this mixer allows for creative sound manipulation without external processors
- 【High Sound Quality】: The mixer audio has remarkable 3-band equalization. Use dedicated knobs to fine-tune high, mid, and low sounds independently. Manipulate sound to create soundscapes for different occasions.Provides exquisite processing of vocals and music at any time. KASCHUN CT80S mixer can be connected to a computer/laptop to transmit audio, and can output and input (Note: the USB port needs to be connected to the data cable to be able to output and input!!).Additionally, you can modulate a variety of sound effects and achieve stereo sound, ensuring the right effect for different occasions.
- 【Built-in Bluetooth Playback】: Connect external devices such as mobile phones, PC, Mac, etc., to the audio interface. Supports MP3/U disk and other devices for direct input, featuring a built-in MP3 player and recorder. Supported formats include MP3, WAV, and WMA. Allows for computer recording and sound editing via USB connection. Includes a high-definition LCD display.You can play music or record audio through MP3 and USB ports，Bluetooth music playback: With Bluetooth functionality, you can wirelessly connect to your device and play music.
- 【Bluetooth Wireless Streaming】: The music mixer includes Bluetooth for wireless streaming, enabling it to be used as an input to mix signals with other input channels.The music mixer provides seamless Bluetooth for wireless streaming.8 -channel mixer supports cable/wireless/capacitive microphone/instrument connection, which is suitable for family KTV, band performances, campus activities, conferences and other occasions.Note: The wireless range is 15 ft.
- 【Ultra Low Noise】: The mixer provides a 48V power switch per channel to provide necessary power for condenser microphones and other devices，Mono mute switch: You can use the mono mute switch to control the audio output of specific channels.Featuring gold-plated XLRs and balanced Line input interface, complete with insert points. Equipped with balanced XLR (Canon) inputs compatible with standard Canon male connectors. Includes a +48V Phantom Power Supply for supporting wired/wireless/condenser microphone/instrument connections.
- 【Widely Used】: Suitable for karaoke, weddings, parties, recordings, family KTV, band performances, campus activities, conferences, broadcasts, and various other small, medium, and large occasions. Operates on 110V voltage with a US plug.If you encounter any issues before making a purchase or during product usage, please do not hesitate to contact our customer service for assistance. If there are any problems with your product, please contact us!!! We will replace your product with a new one.
Best Unpowered Recording Mixers Buying Guide
Before choosing the best unpowered mixer you should consider following options:
1. Channel count: The first thing you should look at is the number of channels the mixer offers. A two-channel mixer is pretty much useless, unless you want to record a stereo track.
A 2-channel mixer is mainly used for recording a stereo track, or you can use it as an additional channel for an existing mixer. If you plan to purchase an unpowered mixer, you should buy one with at least 3 to 4 channels.
2. Inputs and outputs: The next thing you should look at is the number of inputs and outputs the mixer offers. You can easily find out this information from the product specifications.
You will find two types of inputs and outputs in an unpowered mixer. Firstly, there are the insert points that let you connect the mixer to an external source.
Secondly, you will find line inputs and outputs that are used to connect the mixer to other devices.
3. Headphone output: A headphone output is important as it lets you monitor the audio while recording. It’s also vital for live performances, so the audience can listen to the music without taking off the headphones.
4. Auxiliary input: The AUX input is one feature you will find on most unpowered mixers. It’s mainly used to connect an external source, such as a music player or an external microphone.
This input is mainly used to connect an external source, such as a music player or an external microphone. It’s important to have this input when you record a podcast or any other audio-based project.
5. Outputs: An unpowered mixer usually offers a stereo output, along with an internal speaker. This output is mainly used for playing back the audio.
The internal speaker is useful when you want to monitor the audio, but you don’t want to use headphones. It’s also good for live performances, so the audience can listen to the music without using headphones.
6. Quality of sound: The quality of sound is something that is often overlooked by people. You should make sure the mixer offers a good sound quality.
There are two aspects that affect the overall sound quality of a mixer. Firstly, you should look at the number of channels the mixer offers. The more channels the mixer has, the better the overall sound quality.
Secondly, you should make sure the mixer offers good quality preamps. Preamps are responsible for converting an analog audio signal into a digital one.
The more channels the mixer has, the better the overall sound quality. Secondly, you should make sure the mixer offers good quality preamps.
Preamps are responsible for converting an analog audio signal into a digital one. The better the preamps, the better the overall sound quality.
You will find two types of preamps in an unpowered mixer. Firstly, there are channel strips that offer great sound quality.
Secondly, there are internal speakers that offer a poor sound quality. The internal speakers are mainly used to monitor the audio and are not meant for live performances.
7. Price: The price of the mixer is something that matters a lot to most people. You will find mixers with different price points, depending on the features they offer.
You will find inexpensive mixers that offer basic features, while there are expensive ones that offer advanced features.
You can find a good quality mixer that offers all the essential features for around $100. On the other hand, you can also find expensive ones that offer additional features for
What else you should know about unpowered recording mixers
1. What are the best unpowered recording mixers?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the specific needs of the person using the mixer. Some good unpowered recording mixers include the Mackie 402VLZ4, the Yamaha MG10XU, and the Presonus StudioLive 16.4.2.
2. What are the features of a good unpowered recording mixer?
Some features of a good unpowered recording mixer are:
-Low noise
-Frequency response
-Distortion
-Signal to noise ratio
-Crosstalk
3. How do I choose the right unpowered recording mixer for my needs?
The first question you need to ask is how many channels you need. The number of channels will determine the size of the mixer. The next question is what type of inputs you need. The most common are XLR, 1/4″, and RCA. The last question is what type of outputs you need. The most common are 1/4″, XLR, and RCA.
4. What are the benefits of using an unpowered recording mixer?
Some benefits of using an unpowered recording mixer are that they are usually lighter and more portable than powered mixers, and they often cost less. Unpowered mixers also typically have more channels than powered mixers, which can be beneficial if you need to mix a large number of signals.
5. How do I get the best results from my unpowered recording mixer?
There are a few things you can do to get the best results from your unpowered recording mixer. First, make sure that all of your input levels are properly adjusted. Second, use high-quality cables to connect your mixer to your recording device. Third, use a low-noise recording environment if possible. Finally, make sure that your recording device is properly calibrated.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best unpowered recording mixers. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best unpowered recording mixers will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.