2 best na audio mixers

An audio mixer, often referred to simply as a mixer, is a device used in audio production to combine, adjust, and route multiple audio signals. It is a fundamental tool in various applications including music recording, live sound reinforcement, broadcasting, and more.

There are two main types of audio mixers: powered and unpowered (also known as passive).Here, I'll focus on unpowered mixers:

Unpowered Mixers:

  1. Basic Functionality: Unpowered mixers do not have built-in amplification. They serve to mix, balance, and route audio signals but do not provide any power to speakers. They are typically used in scenarios where an external power amplifier is used to drive speakers.

  2. Inputs and Channels: Unpowered mixers come with a number of input channels, each with its own set of controls. These channels are where you plug in microphones, instruments, or other audio sources. The mixer then allows you to adjust the level, EQ, and effects (if available) for each channel.

  3. Controls: They have knobs or faders to control parameters such as volume, tone (equalization), panning (adjusting the stereo position), and sometimes effects like reverb or delay.

  4. Routing and Outputs: Unpowered mixers have various output options, which may include main outputs for sending the mixed signal to an amplifier or recording device, as well as auxiliary outputs for sending separate mixes to monitors or effects processors.

  5. Applications: Unpowered mixers are commonly used in recording studios, where they are often paired with studio monitors and external power amplifiers. They are also used in live sound setups where a separate power amplifier is employed to drive speakers.

  6. Accessories: Mixer accessories can include rack mounts, carrying cases, and covers for protection during transport or storage.

It's worth noting that the choice of mixer depends on specific requirements like the number of channels needed, the type of audio sources, and the intended use (studio recording, live performance, etc.). Additionally, unpowered mixers are often used in conjunction with external amplifiers and speakers to complete a sound system.

When selecting an audio mixer, it's important to consider factors like the type and number of inputs needed, the desired level of control and flexibility, and compatibility with other equipment in the setup.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best na audio mixers on the market
  

Monoprice Commercial Audio 240W 5ch 100/70V Mixer Amp with Microphone Priority (NO Logo)

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Commercial Audio 240W 5ch 100/70V Mixer Amp with Microphone Priority (NO LOGO)



Simplify the task of running distributed audio for restaurants, hotels, or anywhere large areas need background music and/or paging address systems. Connect hundreds of speakers covering acres of area without the need for large equipment racks.



A constant voltage speaker system differs from a traditional 8-ohm speaker system in that it uses a step-up transformer at the audio source to raise the voltage and lower the current on the transmission line. At the speaker end, a step-down transformer converts the signal back to a normal speaker level voltage. This reduces power loss during transmission, which allows for the use of longer speaker wire runs using smaller gauge wire.



Additionally, a constant voltage speaker system allows for the use of multiple speakers on each channel, without the need for complicated impedance calculations and configurations. In a constant voltage system, all speakers on a given channel are connected in parallel and the complicated impedance calculations are replaced by simple wattage calculations.



For example, if you want to connect two speakers per channel in a traditional 8-ohm speaker system, you must either connect them in series, which results in an overall 16-ohm impedance, or in parallel, which results in an overall 4-ohm impedance. In the first case, the 16-ohms impedance effectively halves the output power of your amplifier, resulting in lower overall volume levels. In the latter case, the 4-ohms impedance means that your amplifier will have to work harder and must be rated as stable at 4 ohms. Adding a third speaker to the mix would complicate it further, producing either a 24-ohm or 2-ohm overall impedance. Note that very few amplifiers are stable under 2-ohm loads, so that is usually not an option.



On the other hand, with a constant voltage system, you consider first the RMS output wattage of the amplifier. This should be reduced by 20% to compensate for insertion loss. For example, if using a 100-watt amplifier, the total load from speakers should not exceed 80 watts.



This amplifier features three microphone inputs and two auxiliary inputs, each of which is active and mixed into the line and speaker level outputs. When an EMC input trigger is detected, all outputs except MIC 1 are muted, allowing for the clear broadcast of important messages. The amplifier can drive a speaker array consisting of one or more speakers presenting a 4~16 ohm load or to one or more 70V or 100V speakers connected in parallel as part of a large public address system.



Features:

• 5-channel (3 microphone and 2 line) mixer/amplifier

• Amplifier rated for 240 watts

• 70V, 100V, and low impedance 4~16 ohm speaker output options

• Built-in rack mount ears and 2U height for mounting in a standard 19" equipment rack

• Unbalanced front panel input for MIC 1

• Both balanced XLR and unbalanced TRS and RCA rear panel inputs for MIC 2 and MIC 3

• Phantom power option for MIC 2 and MIC 3

• Two unbalanced RCA auxiliary/line inputs

• Master volume, bass, and treble controls

• Front panel level controls for all inputs

• 0-30dB variable muting for all channels except MIC 1 when MIC 1 is in use

• Built-in short circuit, over-current, and high temperature protection circuits

• Line level output of mixed signal for connection to other devices

  • Rackmountable audio control center for large facilities and restaurants where distributed sound is required to install several speakers for music and anouncements
  • Flexible configueration for any facility includes 2x XLR, 3x 1/4", and 4 RCA Pairs on a 5ch mixer.
  • Separate Bass and Treble control to dial in the sound for your paticular environment.
  • Dedicated EMC emergency killswitch to all inputs except Mic 1 for anouncememnts and seftey instructions.

User questions & answers

Question: Would this amp power 10 pair of these speakers? https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/b007kz9itc/ref=ask_ql_qh_dp_hza
Answer: The system 10 equipment I ordered and received showed the receiver and 2 lavalier mics with 2 body packs. I received what was pictured.

Product features

Monoprice Commercial Audio 240W 5ch 100/70V Mixer Amp with Microphone Priority (NO LOGO)

A constant voltage speaker system differs from a traditional 8-ohm speaker system in that it uses a step-up transformer at the audio source to raise the voltage and lower the current on the transmission line. At the speaker end, a step-down transformer converts the signal back to a normal speaker level voltage. This reduces power loss during transmission, which allows for the use of longer speaker wire runs using smaller gauge wire.

Little Bear MC5 Mini Portable Stereo 4 Channel Audio Mixer Passive Live Studio Console Recording Low Noise (No Power Needed)

Based on 166 reviews Check latest price
  • (According to customers' need, now MC5 are all 1K version.) MC5 stereo audio mixer with 4 channel 3.5mm inputs and 1 channel 3.5mm output, which is capable of mixing the signals from CD players, instruments, portable recording devices, video playback devices and so on.
  • Mini size with exquisite appearance, passive circuit design won’t boost or reduce the audio signal. And MC5 can work without battery or external power, very convenient to carry and use any time any where.
  • With one main output volume knob and four independent input volume knob, 4 channels input have no interference to each other. Providing the highest sonic quality even at maximum output level.
  • Please note this is a passive mixer. It cannot be used for headphones directly. You need to add a headphone amplifier between the mixer and headphone.

User questions & answers

Question: Could this item record video/audio through the "output" using my iphone? i mean, music from my laptop and from my guitar
Answer: Dear ubi-dub-dub , Thanks for your inquriy. The Just Mic 4 have an output and cannot be used to control individual microphone input with software. If there is any question or comments,please feel free to contact at [email protected] Thank you. Have a great day. Warmest Regards, Sandy Tsai
Question: trs or trrs
Answer: Hi Diego M. Sandoval , Thanks for your inquiry. The Just Mic 4 can connect 4 microphone and record to laptop. If there is any question or comments,please feel free connect us. Thank you. Have a great day. Best Regards, Sandy Tsai
Question: The description says that it does not reduce the volume, which is incorrect. How much does it reduce the signal in dB
Answer: Hello,sorry before message continued . About the Just Mic 4 signal to noise ratio is 80 dBm. If there is any question or comments.please feel free to contact with us. Thank you. Have a good weekend.
Question: Will any static be heard if a pc, an Xbox and a switch are connected
Answer: The mixer cannot record internally, it is externally recorded.

Product features

Passive & Portable

  • Mini size with exquisite appearance
  • Passive circuit design won’t boost or reduce the audio signal
  • Can work without battery or external power
  • One main output volume knob and four independent input volume knob

4-IN-1-OUT:

  • 4 channel 3.5mm inputs and 1 channel 3.5mm output
  • All channels are independent and won't affect each other
  • Can mix the signals from CD players, instruments, portable recording devices, video playback devices and so on

Specifications:

  • Material: PCB+acrylic case
  • Net weight: 93g / 0.21lb
  • Package weight: 132g / 0.29lb
  • Dimensions(L*W*H): 83.5*54*21mm / 3.29*2.13*0.83in (not included the knob)

Latest Reviews

View all