Many finance podcasters we work with start by over-buying on mixer hardware. After setting up shows for clients in financial services, B2B SaaS, and professional associations, we consistently find that the best podcast mixer depends on a narrow set of practical questions.
How many guests are recording simultaneously? Do you need onboard SD card recording? Are you streaming live or recording for post-production?
The mixers below represent the options we most frequently recommend based on those criteria. Each section explains why a specific use case is more or less effective for specific devices.
TPC’s Podcast Mixer Recommendations:
- RØDECaster Pro II: Best for professional use. Four studio-grade mic inputs, four individually controlled headphone outputs, and onboard SD recording. The most complete console for a permanent studio.
- Zoom PodTrak P4next: Best for remote field recording. Battery powered with four mic inputs, four headphone outputs, and AI noise reduction. Record anywhere without a laptop.
- Yamaha MG10XU: Best for beginners. Four D-PRE mic preamps plus a built-in 24-bit/192kHz USB interface. Cubase AI included.
- Behringer XENYX X1222USB: Best for SFX. 24-bit multi-FX processor with 16 presets, 7-band graphic EQ, and six mic preamps with phantom power.
Table of Contents
- What is a Podcast Mixer?
- Do You Need a Podcast Mixer?
- Podcast Mixers vs. Recorders vs. Audio Interfaces
- How We Chose the Best Podcast Mixers
- What Are the Best Podcast Mixers?
- RØDECaster Pro II: Best podcast mixer for professional use
- Zoom PodTrak P4Next: Best podcast mixer for remote field recording
- Yamaha MG10XU: Best podcast mixer for beginners
- TASCAM Mixcast 4: Best podcast mixer for multiple hosts
- ZOOM PodTrak P8: Best podcast mixer for large shows
- Maonocaster E2: Best podcast mixer for all-inclusive bundling
- Behringer XENYX X1222USB: Best podcast mixer for SFX
- Mackie DLZ Creator: Best podcast mixer for software bundling
- Honorable Mentions for Podcast Mixers
- How to Choose the Right Podcast Mixer
- Frequently Asked Questions About Podcast Mixers
What is a Podcast Mixer?
A podcast mixer is hardware that combines multiple audio sources (microphones, music, or call-ins) into a single output for podcast recording.
The best podcast mixers for businesses are:
- RØDECaster Pro II: Best podcast mixer for professional use
- Zoom PodTrak P4Next: Best podcast mixer for remote field recording
- Yamaha MG10XU: Best podcast mixer for beginners
- TASCAM Mixcast 4: Best podcast mixer for multiple hosts
- ZOOM PodTrak P8: Best podcast mixer for large shows
- Maonocaster E2: Best podcast mixer for all-inclusive bundling
- Behringer XENYX X1222USB: Best podcast mixer for SFX
- Mackie DLZ Creator: Best podcast mixer for software bundling
Want to compare multiple mixers? You can check out our guides at the end of each section.
But first, let’s determine whether you need a podcast mixer in the first place.
Do You Need a Podcast Mixer?
You don’t need a podcast mixer to start recording your show. But having one on hand could provide some indispensable benefits.
A mixer adds value when recording 3+ guests simultaneously, using XLR microphones that need preamp control, or hosting live shows with music and SFX.
TPC Recommendation: Skip the mixer if you are a solo host using a USB microphone and recording to a laptop. An audio interface or a direct USB setup will deliver the same audio quality at a lower cost and complexity.
Consider a mixer when you have two or more XLR microphones in the room, when you need to blend call-in guests with in-studio audio in real time, or when you want SFX and music cues triggered live without a second operator. These are scenarios we see regularly with financial advisory firms and professional association podcasts that host multiple principals or board members as co-hosts.
Podcast Mixers vs. Recorders vs. Audio Interfaces
Mixers, recorders, and audio interfaces overlap in function but serve different primary purposes. Understanding the distinction will prevent you from buying the wrong device.
The simplest answer is that all podcast mixers consolidate multiple audio sources, while only some podcast recorders can record multiple sources. While audio interfaces have multiple inputs and outputs like mixers, they can’t mix audio without the help of a DAW.
If you’re still confused, it may be easier to understand what a podcast mixer is not.
Podcast mixers do not:
- Focus on capturing only a single audio input
- Need a computer 100% of the time (if they have onboard SD cards)
- Usually include podcast editing software or a DAW with your purchase
In contrast, a podcast mixer does:
- Capture and mix multiple audio sources
- Come with a built-in audio interface in some cases
- Capture audio directly to an onboard SD card (depending on the model)
How We Chose the Best Podcast Mixers
We evaluated the best podcast mixers on the market using seven key factors so you can make an informed decision:
- Audio quality. High-quality preamps ensure high-quality recordings. That’s why we looked into Equivalent Input Noise (EIN) values, gain range, and distortion figures to ensure you have the most professional-sounding podcasting.
- XLR inputs. How many XLR inputs will you have for interviews? More inputs mean you can connect multiple microphones without extra gear. We specifically looked for a variety of XLR ranges to meet any possible recording need
- Podcasting-specific features. The best podcast mixers often include sound pads for effects, mix-minus capabilities, and built-in software options. They should also provide individual volume control for each microphone input so you can adjust incoming audio to meet your needs.
- Recording connectivity. Whether you’re routing multitrack audio to a DAW or streaming live, you need a mixer that can record your audio in specific locations. This might be an onboard SD card, your phone or computer, or within software that’s packaged with the mixer in question.
- Build quality. We specifically looked for mixer models offering metal chassis, reliable faders, and protective casings for long-term use.
- Value for money. We compared pricing across budget, mid-range, and premium tiers to identify where each mixer delivers the strongest return.
- Ease of use. How easy is it to get started with your mixer right out of the box? We looked for mixers offering guided setup wizards for beginners, as well as full manual control for veterans wanting more customizability.
What Are the Best Podcast Mixers?
Here’s what the top podcast mixers look like side by side:
| Recording Media | USB Connector | Sampling Rate | Recording Format | Microphone Inputs | Included Items | Price | |
| RØDECaster Pro II | microSD card (sold separately), external USB drive, or direct to computer | 2 x USB Type-C | 48 kHz | 24-bit / 48kHz WAV (multitrack) | 4 | Power supply, USB-C cable, quick start guide | $699.99 USD |
| Zoom PodTrak P4next | microSD cards up to 2TB | USB Type-C | 48 kHz | 24-bit / 48kHz WAV (stereo mix plus individual tracks) | 4 | PodTrak P4next, Quick Tour guide (AC adapter and BTA-2 Bluetooth adapter sold separately) | $179.99 USD |
| Yamaha MG10XU | You must connect to an external device via USB | USB Type-B | 192 kHz | 24-bit / 192kHz (stereo only) | 4 | The mixer, power adapter, Cubase AI download code, user manual | $383.00 USD |
| TASCAM Mixcast 4 | SD cards (64 MB to 2 GB), SDHC cards (4 GB to 32 GB), SDXC cards (48 GB to 512 GB) | USB Type-C | 48 kHz | 24-bit / 48kHz WAV | 4 | AC adapter, USB Type-C to Type-C cable, owner’s manual and warranty, TASCAM ID registration guide | $499.00 USD |
| ZOOM PodTrak P8 | SD cards up to 512GB | USB Type-C (cable sold separately) | 44.1 kHz | 16-bit / 44.1kHz WAV | 6 | PodTrak P8, AD-14 AC adapter, Quick Guide | $299.99 USD |
| Maonocaster E2 | Not compatible with SD cards. Requires a direct connection to your laptop, tablet, or desktop | USB Type-C | 48 kHz | 16-bit / 48kHz | 2 | Earphones, shock mount, metal pop filter, USB A-C charging cable, 2 TRRS audio cables, user manual, 12-month warranty, PM320T microphone, mic stand | $149.99 USD |
| Behringer XENYX X1222USB | You must connect to an external device | USB Type-B | 48 kHz | 16-bit / 48kHz (stereo only) | 6 | The mixer, power cord, user manual | $299.99 USD |
| Mackie DLZ Creator | microSD card or USB flash drive (multitrack), or direct to computer | USB Type-C (computer), USB Type-A (flash drive) | 48 kHz | 24-bit / 48kHz WAV (multitrack) | 4 | Power adapter, USB cable, Waveform OEM and DAW Essentials download | $799.99 USD |
| Maonocaster G1 NEO | Not compatible with SD cards. Requires a direct connection to your phone, tablet, or computer | USB Type-C | 44.1 kHz | 16-bit / 44.1kHz | 1 | The mixer, USB A-C cable, 3.5mm TRRS audio cable, user manual | ~$59.99 USD |
| PreSonus StudioLive AR8c | Onboard SD recorder (stereo mix, SD/SDHC up to 32GB), multitrack via USB | USB Type-C (USB 2.0) | 96 kHz | 24-bit / 96kHz | 4 | Power cord, USB-C cable, Capture recording software, Fender Studio Pro license | $399.99 USD |
RØDECaster Pro II: Best podcast mixer for professional use
| Pros | Cons |
| Touchscreen display lets you get up and running fast | One of the most expensive mixers on this list |
| Records to SD card, computer, or both at once | SD card sold separately |
| Remote guests via Bluetooth, USB, or RØDE CallMe | More features than most business podcasts need |
The RØDECaster Pro II is the closest thing to a full production studio in a single mixer. With it, you can connect up to four microphones, each with its own headphone output. You can also host remote guests. For example, you might connect a caller through Bluetooth, one of the two USB-C channels, or RØDE’s CallMe feature over Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
Unlike traditional analog mixers, the RØDECaster Pro II offers a touchscreen interface. This lets you get started quickly, even with very limited podcasting experience. You’ll even have access to the onboard VoxLab processing editor. That means you won’t need to spend extra money on editing software.
But speaking of money: know that you’ll pay for all of RØDECaste’s capabilities, whether you choose to use them or not. The starting price (without anything bundled in) is almost $700 USD. The Mixcast 4 covers the same core features for about $200 less. But if you want a podcast mixer with all the bells and whistles, this is easily one of the strongest options on the market.
You can read our full breakdown of the RØDECaster Pro II here.
RØDECaster Pro II features
- 4 mic inputs
- 4 headphone outputs with individual mixes
- 8 SMART pads with 8 banks (64 total actions)
- Onboard SD recording plus dual USB-C connections
RØDECaster Pro II pricing
Zoom PodTrack P4Next: Best podcast mixer for remote field recording
| Pros | Cons |
| Runs on two AA batteries or USB power | Battery life drops heavily if you use condenser mics |
| Records to microSD cards up to 2TB | Bluetooth requires the optional BTA-2 adapter |
| AI noise reduction cleans up untreated rooms | Phantom power switches on for all four inputs at once |
The Zoom PodTrak P4next was designed to record studio-quality audio in the field, on the go, or anywhere else you can’t bring your usual podcasting setup. You can plug up to four XLR mics into its preamps, add a microSD card, and capture a full multitrack session without any laptops or wall outlets.
The P4next also comes with AI noise reduction, which helps limit any hums, street noise, and room tone in field recordings. You can also add up to two remote guests through USB, a TRRS smartphone cable, or a Bluetooth connection (the device for which is sold separately).
Just know that the P4next’s battery life depends heavily on the mics you use. Dynamic mics with phantom power off can run for eight hours or more. However, users report that using condenser mics with phantom power can drain two AA batteries in two hours or less. Make sure to bring a USB power bank for longer recording sessions.
Zoom PodTrack P4Next features
- 4 mic inputs with up to +70dB of gain
- 4 headphone outputs with individual volume controls
- 4 assignable sound pads
- AI noise reduction, tone shaping, and built-in compression
Zoom PodTrack P4Next pricing
Yamaha MG10XU: Best podcast mixer for beginners
| Pros | Cons |
| Doubles as a 24-bit/192kHz USB audio interface | USB output is stereo only, so there’s no multitrack recording |
| Studio-grade D-PRE mic preamps | Only one headphone output |
| Cubase AI recording software included | Not specifically designed for podcasters |
The Yamaha MG10XU is both an analog mixer and a USB audio interface. You can plug up to four XLR mics into it (dynamic or condenser), then send your mix straight to a computer using a USB connection.
The MG10XU also comes with a Cubase AI download code, which you can start recording audio as soon as it arrives. You can adjust your audio with 24 SPX effects like reverb and delay.
Just know that this mixer was built for musicians first, so you may pay for features you won’t use (like the pad switches for instrument amps). There’s also no onboard SD card, so you’ll need a connected computer or external recorder to capture audio. One other thing to note: your final mix will be recorded as a single stereo track; there’s no way to separate each host’s audio in post-production.
Yamaha MG10XU features
- +48v phantom power
- SPX with 24 programs
- Works with the iPad (2 or later) through the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit / Lightning to USB Camera Adapter
- Includes Cubase AI DAW software download version
Yamaha MG10XU pricing
TASCAM Mixcast 4: Best podcast mixer for beginners
| Pros | Cons |
| LCD touchscreen | Free editing software is somewhat limited |
| Free podcast editing software included | |
| Beginner-friendly, with four available mic inputs |
The TASCAM Mixcast 4 can be flexible in a variety of applications. You can plug XLR mics into the four available inputs, then use Bluetooth connectivity to host a fifth call-in guest.
You can also mix internal audio using the LCD touchscreen. With it, you can find and adjust audio settings, menu controls, and more.
Since the Mixcast 4 comes with free editing software, you can start recording, editing, and publishing your episodes relatively quickly. That said, the free software may feel limited to more experienced podcasters. This won’t be a problem if you already have Adobe Audition (or a similar podcast recording software).
Learn more about the TASCAM Mixcast 4 in our detailed guide.
TASCAM Mixcast 4 features
- 4 mic inputs
- 8 soundpads
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Call-in support
TASCAM Mixcast 4 pricing
ZOOM PodTrak P8: Best podcast mixer for large shows
| Pros | Cons |
| Extra-large onboard SD card | Above-average price tag |
| Up to six mic inputs for large shows | Limited recording formats |
| Sound banks for plug-and-play audio |
The ZOOM PodTrak P8 was uniquely designed for large or growing podcasts. Offering six mic inputs and two simultaneous call-ins, you can host a total of eight separate guests on your show.
The PodTrak P8 also comes with a touchscreen so you can make simple edits on the go. This includes splitting, trimming, or adjusting audio without the need for a DAW.
Keep in mind the ZOOM PodTrak P8 comes with an audio interface mode so you can livestream your podcast if desired. Just know these features come at a price. This is one of the most expensive mixers on our list.
You can read our full breakdown of the ZOOM PodTrak P8 here.
ZOOM PodTrak P8 features
- Touchscreen for simple editing purposes
- Phantom power for compatible mics
- 6 mic inputs
- Built-in editing tools
ZOOM PodTrak P8 pricing
Maonocaster E2: Best podcast mixer for all-inclusive bundling
| Pros | Cons |
| Includes mic, mic stand, and pop filter | Can’t record directly to the mixer |
| Warranty and money-back guarantee | Plugging an iPhone into the mixer with an OTG adapter may result in poor audio |
| Denoise to get rid of room tone |
It’s hard to argue with the value of the Maonocaster E2: each purchase comes with a mixer, a mic, earphones, and a pop filter. If you already have the right editing software, you can start publishing and promoting your podcast right away.
This mixer comes with two mic inputs and an aux-in port for playing back music. It lends itself well to podcast livestreaming, especially due to its 11 customizable sound pads.
But you should know the E2 doesn’t come with an onboard SD card, so you need to plug it directly into a computer, phone, or tablet. If you’re only planning on livestreaming your podcast, this may not pose much of an issue.
You can read our full breakdown of the Maonocaster E2 here.
Maonocaster E2 Features
- 2 mic inputs
- 1 INST port
- 11 adjustable sound pads
- Ones with 1 mic, 1 mic stand, and 1 pop filter.
Maonocaster E2 Pricing
Behringer XENYX X1222USB: Best podcast mixer for SFX
| Pros | Cons |
| Neo-classic ‘British’ three-band EQs | Must record on an external device |
| Six mic inputs | Only one headphone jack |
| Livestreaming capabilities | Not specifically designed for podcasting (it may come with features you don’t need) |
The Behringer XENYX X1222USB comes with six mic inputs and an additional +60dB of gain. Each mixer contains 16 adjustable FX, including favorites like chorus, reverb, and more.
Its biggest claim to fame is three-band ‘British’ EQs. For experienced audio engineers, this can make a world of difference in output. You’ll also have fallback features, such as the FBQ Feedback Detection System, to catch tricky audio issues that are difficult to solve manually.
Just keep in mind the X1222USB can’t record audio without an external device. It’s also not specifically designed for podcasting, which means you may have to pay for features you don’t need (like live music outputs, for example).
Behringer XENYX features
- 4 mic inputs
- 12 channels
- 16 FX presets
- Phantom power
Behringer XENYX pricing
Mackie DLZ Creator: Best Podcast Mixer for Software Bundling
| Pros | Cons |
| Comes with Tracktion Waveform OEM, + 16 other plugins | Fairly expensive |
| Onyx80 mic preamps with up to 80dB gain | |
| 4 mics inputs on combo jacks, plus 4 headphone outputs |
We recommend two different types of Mackie mixers. This article focuses on the DLZ Creator here, but you can read about the ProFX in our guide.
The Mackie DLZ Creator comes with four mic inputs plus call-in support for your remote guests. It also provides a software package with Tracktion, as well as 16 additional plugins.
Just keep in mind that this is a very expensive device. Prices start at $799.99, which is nearly 10x the cost of a Maonocaster G1 NEO. If you’re looking for a cheaper mixer that gets the job done, you may want to look for a Mackie DLZ Creator alternative.
Mackie DLZ Creator features
- 4 mic inputs
- 4 headphone outputs
- FX options
- 23 plugins and instruments
- 2 subgroups
Mackie DLZ Creator pricing
Honorable Mentions for Podcast Mixers
The following list includes podcast mixers that are useful in specific scenarios, but not necessarily a fit for every show.
- PreSonus StudioLive AR8
- Behringer XENYX
- Maonocaster G1 NEO
- Maonocaster Lite
- Zoom PodTrak P4 here
- Mackie ProFX here
If you enjoyed this post, you may enjoy our other articles on essential podcast equipment:
- Podcast Equipment Bundles: The Comprehensive Guide
- The Best Podcast Equipment Kits for Every Podcaster
- The Podcast Audio Interface: A Comprehensive Guide
- How to Set Up a Professional Podcast Studio
- Ultimate Guide to Video Podcasts: Equipment, Software, and Recording
- Ultimate Guide to Podcast Equipment
How to Choose the Right Podcast Mixer
Feeling overwhelmed by all your options? Use the following checklist to help narrow down the best mixers for you.
Hosts and Guests
What does your podcast format look like? Are you on your own? Have a host? Record in-person, or over the phone?
Your answer to these questions will have a monumental impact on the overall size and price of your mixer.
For example:
- Solo podcasters may only need two to four inputs. The Zoom PodTrak P4 or Behringer Xenyx may be a good fit for your needs.
- If you’re recording podcast episodes with two to four in-person guests, you’ll need at least four mic inputs, plus individual headphone mixes. You’ll want to consider the RØDECaster Pro II, TASCAM Mixcast 4, and Mackie DLZ as potential options.
- Do you expect five or more participants for an in-person panel? You will need six or more XLR inputs for mics and recording, if you’re not using a virtual recording tool like Riverside or Squadcast. The Zoom PodTrak P8 could be a potential option here.
Just don’t forget to plan for the future, like if you expect to add a co-host or regular in-person guests. Investing in a mixer with four XLR inputs today will save you from having to replace gear tomorrow.
Recording Environment
Where you choose to record your podcast should also affect your final decision.
For example, home studio setups work well with desktop mixers like the RØDECaster Pro II or DLZ Creator. That’s because they offer noise reduction, compressors, and noise gates that help compensate for uneven room acoustics.
If you’re recording in an untreated room, you’ll want to prioritize mixers with lower EIN values. For example, the RØDECaster Pro II has a -131.5 dBV Equivalent Input Noise (EIN), which means it produces very little self-noise compared to cheaper alternatives.
Planning on doing some mobile or field recording? You’ll want to focus on mixers offering portability first and foremost, including features like battery power. The Zoom PodTrak P4Next and P8, for example, were designed for recording on location, at conferences, or while on the road.
Technical Expertise
Not every podcaster wants to learn audio engineering. Others already know the ins and outs and don’t want to feel constrained by bare-bones mixers.
If you’re a complete beginner, look for mixers with preset-based processing, guided setup tools, and automatic features. The Mackie DLZ Creator’s Mix Agent wizard and Easy mode are designed exactly for this. RØDE’s VoxLab is another possible option, although keep in mind it’s more expensive.
Upgrade a tier to the Tascam Mixcast 4 or Zoom P8 if you want more accessible physical controls. Need full manual control over EQ, compression ratios, and gain staging? Switch on RØDE’s Enhanced and Pro modes, or choose a traditional analog mixer like the Yamaha MG10XU or Behringer XENYX X1222USB.
And don’t forget your software integration needs! If you use software like a DAW for editing, for example, make sure your mixer has a USB audio interface function. Or, if you’d prefer to edit your podcast inside your hardware, you may want to purchase an all-in-one model.
💡So: Which Podcast Mixer Is Right for Your Business?
For most business podcasts, the TASCAM Mixcast 4 or ZOOM PodTrak P4 Next handles 90% of use cases. Solo hosts on a budget should start with a Maonocaster. Large panel shows need the RØDECaster Pro II.
Frequently Asked Questions About Podcast Mixers
Do I need a mixer to start a podcast?
No. Most solo podcasters can start with a USB microphone plugged directly into a laptop. A mixer becomes useful when you have multiple XLR microphones in the same room, need real-time control over levels during a live recording, or want to blend music and sound effects without a second operator managing software.
Which podcast mixer is best for a two-person show?
For a fixed studio setup with two hosts, the TASCAM Mixcast 4 is the strongest option. It handles four XLR inputs, includes onboard SD recording, and ships with editing software. If budget is tighter, the Behringer XENYX X1222USB provides four inputs and FX presets at a lower price point, though it requires an external recording device.
What is the best podcast mixer for my business?
The clearest way to make this decision is to answer three questions before you buy:
- How many simultaneous microphone inputs do you need?
- Do you need to record without a connected laptop (onboard SD)?
- Will you be streaming live or recording for post-production editing?
If the answers are “two inputs, no SD required, post-production only,” the Maonocaster or Behringer XENYX 1222USB will serve you well at a fraction of the cost of the higher-end options. If you are running a financial advisory roundtable with four in-studio guests plus a remote call-in, the ZOOM PodTrak P8 can help.
What do I do after buying a podcast mixer?
Once your mixer is set up, the next variable to address is your recording environment. A $500 mixer in an untreated room will always lose to a $100 USB mic in a properly treated space. If you are setting up a dedicated studio, see our guide on how to set up a professional podcast studio.
Can I use a podcast mixer for remote interviews?
Most mixers handle remote interviews through a USB audio interface mode, which routes guest audio recorded via Riverside, Zoom, or similar platforms into your mix alongside local microphones. The ZOOM PodTrak P8 supports two simultaneous call-in connections natively, making it the strongest option for remote-heavy formats.
Is the PreSonus StudioLive AR8 still worth buying in 2026?
The AR8 is discontinued by PreSonus and cannot be purchased new. Used units appear on Sweetwater, Reverb, and eBay at discounted prices. If you find one in good condition, it remains a capable hybrid mixer-interface. For a new purchase, the TASCAM Mixcast 4 is the closest modern equivalent at a similar price range.
Is the RØDECaster Pro II worth it for a business podcast?
Yes, the RØDECaster Pro II is an excellent podcast mixer for business, finance, and investing shows. It offers enough power for up to four in-person guests, sound effects and recorded audio, and more, for a competitive price.