The 10 Best Mixer For Ableton, Tested And Researched

Tim Powers By, Tim Powers
Updated
PreSonus AudioBox USB Audio Interface with Studio One Artist
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: PreSonus AudioBox USB Audio Interface with Studio One Artist

PreSonus AudioBox USB is a high-performance USB interface with an integrated mixer for your home studio. This audio interface is bus powered, so you can just plug in and start recording without the need for an additional power supply. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: AKAI Professional Portable USB MIDI Controller For Ableton Live

Perfect for mobile music performance and production, this controller easily connects to your laptop or desktop computer, giving you complete control over your performance. Read Review

3. Best Connectivity: PreSonus Studio 24c 2x2, 192 kHz, USB Audio Interface with Studio

The PreSonus Studio 24c is a compact, high-resolution USB audio interface with a built-in MIDI interface, making it the perfect centerpiece for your home or project studio. Read Review

4. Best Compact: Novation Launch Control XL MkII, Ableton Live Controller

The Launch Control XL MkII is the perfect controller for Ableton Live 9-based musicians. Designed to work seamlessly with both live performance and production environments, it has a host of features that will suit all your needs. Read Review

If you are serious about making music, you need the best Ableton Live production gear on hand at all times. This means owning not just the best audio interface for Ableton but also the best mixer to use with Ableton. Mixers have been around for some time and are a necessary part of any recording setup. Whether tracking vocals or working on a new track, using a mixer will give you an edge over other producers. A good mixer will not only improve your sound quality but also free up more space on your desk by allowing you to place all your effects in one place instead of having them spread out across various shelves, drawers, and baskets throughout your studio. There are many factors to consider when buying that piece of equipment – the type of connectors it has, the number of channels it supports, its dynamic range and its noise floor. Here is an in-depth look at some of the best mixers for Ableton available today.

In the end, we concluded that the PreSonus AudioBox USB Audio Interface with Studio One Artistwhich features Studio One Artist, Ableton Live Lite, and Studio Magic Plug-in suite was the most highly recommended. Other mixers presented here are certainly worthy of your attention, and to assist you in making an informed choice, we have compiled a helpful shopping guide.

 

Our Top Picks

  • Mixer control lets you create a custom blend between inputs and playback so you can monitor with zero latency.
  • Studio-grade converters allow for up to 24-bit/96 kHz recording and playback.
  • Equipped with a high-powered headphone output and balanced ¼” TRS outputs.
  • 2 high-quality Class-A mic preamps make it easy to get a great sound.
  • Value-packed 2-channel USB 2.0 interface for personal and portable recording.
  • USB bus-power via USB 2.0 makes it mobile friendly - no need for an additional power supply.
  • 2 high-headroom instrument inputs to record guitar, bass, and your favorite line-level devices, plus MIDI I/O.
  • Comes with over $1000 worth of recording software including Studio One Artist, Ableton Live Lite, and Studio Magic Plug-in suite.
  • Onboard +48V phantom power (global) accommodates studio condenser microphones.
TOP Choice #2 AKAI Professional Portable USB MIDI Controller For Ableton Live
Our Score:
9.6
Akai Professional
  • Jam, Compose, Create - 8x8 MIDI clip matrix with tri-color lighting seamlessly integrates 1-to-1 with Ableton Live - perfect for clip launching, sampling / sample triggering and more
  • Complete Control – Ultra portable USB MIDI Controller for Ableton Live, perfect for mobile music performance and production
  • Everything You Need - Comprehensive production software package for Mac and PC included: Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, and Toolroom artist launch packs (downloads)
  • Integrated MIDI Mixer - 8 assignable faders + 1 master fader instantly map to Ableton live's mixer for hands-on mix control
  • Tweak Your Sound - Seamlessly map APC Mini's controls to virtual effect and instrument parameters for expressive, immersive performances
  • Simple Setup - USB-powered and plug-and-play setup for Mac and PC
  • Loaded with 2 pristine XMAX-L solid-state mic preamps to capture every detail.
  • Contains 2 high-headroom instrument/line inputs to record guitar, bass, and your favorite line-level devices.
  • Comes with Studio Magic Plug-In Suite - over 1,000 USD worth of computer recording software plug-ins.
  • Studio-grade converters allow for up to 24-bit/96 kHz recording and playback.
  • +48V phantom power (global) for condenser microphones.
  • Stay on top of your recording levels with ladder-style LED monitoring and low-latency direct monitoring.
  • Studio One Artist and Ableton Live Lite DAW Recording Software included.
  • Onboard MIDI I/O provides a standard 5-pin DIN connection to keyboards and other MIDI gear.
  • Mobile-ready, bus-powered 2-in/2-out USB-C audio interface; no power supply needed (USB-C to C and USB-C to A cables included).
  • Equipped with high-powered headphone output.
  • Assign buttons, knobs and faders to any parameters within Ableton Live to make your own layouts; customize knobs with your own colors; switch between your own mappings and Live's functionality
  • 24 rotary pots with 300 degree motion. 24 multi-colour indicator LEDs - one for each pot. Eight 60mm Faders. 16 assignable multi-colour backlit buttons. Additional 8 assignable backlit buttons.
  • HUI compatibility for mixer control in DAWs including Cubase, Logic Pro and Pro Tools. HUI is not supported in Pro Tools First. Note: Due to the implementation of HUI in Pro Tools the LC XL pan controls will not always line up with their centre positions. Power Requirements: . USB bus powered, including iPad. Novation now offers a 3-Year Warranty on this and all other Novation products.
  • We recommend that you update to the latest version as previous versions of Ableton Live do not include the Launch Control integration. Launch Control will also work as a standard MIDI controller.
  • Create Your Own Layouts - Fully customisable with the included software editor.Plug Straight In - Bus powered and no drivers needed.16 Multi-color Buttons - 16 multi-color buttons for immediate Track Focus and key mixer controls.Get Started Immediately - Make music out of the box with included Ableton Live Lite software and Loopmasters sample collection
  • Control Surface mode for full DAW control via MIDI
  • Six kinds of Master FX (48 variations) with large performance control knob
  • Ableton Live Lite is included
  • DJ-style cue monitoring, quick mutes, and six fader curves per channel
6 TC-Helicon DJ Mixer (Go XLR Mini)
Our Score:
8.8
TC-Helicon
  • PC app lets you control and recall all of your favorite settings
  • Flexible and intuitive USB-based mixing for all of your audio - simple, easy-to-use controls get you up and running quickly
  • Studio quality EQ, compression and gating help your voice sound its best
  • “Go live” desktop rig for online broadcasters gives you instant control over your audio
  • MG Series mixers feature a rugged, impact resistant, powder coated metal chassis; Equivalent input noise 128 dBu, residual output noise 102 dBu
  • Note: Please refer to the user manual before use
  • 3 band EQ and high pass filters give you maximum control and eliminate unwanted noise, resulting in a cleaner mix
  • 1 knob compressors allow easy control resulting in livelier guitars, punchier bass lines, a tighter snare and a cleaner vocal sound
  • 10 channel mixer with USB and SPX digital effects
  • Dimensions(W×H×D): 244 millimeter x 71 millimeter x 294 millimeter (9.6x2.8x11.6 inches)
  • Featuring studio grade discrete class A D PRE amps with inverted Darlington circuit providing fat, natural sounding bass and smooth, soaring highs
  • RUGGED STEEL CHASSIS - With sealed rotary controls to resist dust and grime, this compact DJ Mixer will provide total dynamic control This incredibly versatile mixer is great for high quality on stage performance, live gigs and Karaoke
  • NEW MULTI-VOLTAGE POWER SUPPLY - 100V-240V (+/-15V DC power adapter) ideal for worldwide usage. Enjoy a value packed mixing solution today with performances that sound great each time
  • BLUETOOTH WIRELESS STREAMING - Hassle and cable-free audio streaming ability directly to the console unit This audio mixer can wirelessly stream music tunes from iPad, iPhone and Android Smart Phone with mixing board from Pandora or Spotify
  • USB/FLASH READER/MP3 COMPATIBILITY - Connect your external USB, computer PC, flash drive or Bluetooth device to mix & record Use the built-in controls to play/pause, skip tracks and switch between modes
  • MIC AND STEREO LINE INPUTS - Supporting XLR and unbalanced 1/4" Plug with +48V Phantom button, highly accurate LED Peak Level Indicator and Ultra-musical 3-band EQ on all channels ultra-low noise, high headroom mixer with super easy functionality
  • 12-CHANNEL MIXER: The device caters multiple device connectivity because it has 12 channels. It has 2 ¼” (L/R) main outputs, 4 XLR 14” combo audio line/MIC IN, 2 pair RCA inputs, 2 pair ¼” mono+stereo inputs, ¼” send+return inputs, ¼” headphone jack
  • LED INDICATOR LIGHTS: The recording mixer has LED indicator lights and rotary adjustment knobs for user convenience. It has input selection, master volume controls, independent channel balance and high, plus, low frequency adjustment
  • RECORD AND CONNECT TO PC: This personal mixer has a USB soundcard and audio interface to record and connect to MAC or PC and it has universal digital audio file compatibility. Can be used by beginners or studio professional applications
  • BLUETOOTH: This portable multi channel DJ sound controller has Bluetooth for wireless streaming and use it as an input to mix signal with other input channels. It works with iPhone, Android, iPad, Tablet and MP3 Player. The wireless range is 15 ft
  • +48V PHANTOM POWER: For reliable power source, this DJ mixer comes with a +48V Phantom power supply. Includes a 3-pin power adapter cable and the stereo output level meter is 12-Segment (-30, -20, -10, -7, -4, -2, 0, +2, +4, +7, +10, CLIP)
  • XLR, Phantom Power and Supports Premium Microphones: MAONOCASTER features two separate premium-quality MIC amplifiers with XLR interfaces. This Single Mic Bundle also includes a PM320T XLR Cardioid Condenser Microphone: Built-in professional condenser capsule, Custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm provides extended frequency response and superior transient response. High-SPL handling and wide dynamic range make wide versatility.
  • Perfect recording or guitar take: MAONOCASTER features separate premium-quality MIC amplifiers with XLR interfaces and adjustable 48V phantom power. Your recordings will retain all of their sonic qualities so that you can sound like the artists you admire. 6.35mm instrument input to record guitar or bass, capture your instruments in all their glory without any unwanted clipping or distortion.
  • Fine-tune your audio: MAONOCASTER has 6 reverb modes, auto-tune, and 4 pitch changers. Each microphone input is independently controlled can be muted with one tap. Pro features like sidechain, mix-minus, noise-canceling, and loopback switch are also included.
  • MAONOCASTER has been named a CES Innovation Award 2021 in the streaming category. It is exactly what you need when you want to get your podcast, radio shows, or Twitch streams off the ground easily but are not sure what gear to buy. It is so easy and intuitive to use that you can jump headfirst into podcasting or streaming within minutes. It simplifies the content-creating process by integrating several digital audio mixing equipments into one comprehensive solution
  • Multi-channel Mixing/Streaming and Monitoring:It offers four channels of audio mixing and easy connections to microphones, smartphones, PC, Mac, and other sources; Advanced engineering that allows the user to control the sound levels and add live vocal and sound effects through a comprehensive set of tools to avoid difficult post-production and editing. Built-in rechargeable battery for even more portability.
  • Programmable jingles: All seven jingle pads are programmable with our PC/Mac APP. We have preloaded four audio effects. You can upload any audio effects you like to the MAONOCASTER. In addition, there is a cough button so you can let it all out while keeping your content clean!
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

Several things a reader must do before selecting best mixer for ableton

Actually, best mixer for ableton can be discovered by following these simple steps. Individuals should first understand their needs and the requirements which will guide their decision-making procedure.

Then they must investigate all options available to decide which product satisfies those needs and meet those criteria. After that, the buyer can narrow down their options based on factors such as cost and dependability. Let’s check the tips for better purchase:

Inserts And Direct Outputs

Channel inserts can be used to add outboard processors, such as equalizers or compressors, to channels. The channel insert point can be found right after the preamplifier in its signal flow. It may use individual send or return jacks, but only one 1/4" insert jack. This requires an insert cable. Direct outputs, on the other hand, send only a portion of the preamplifier signal from the board. This makes them ideal for individual feeds to external recorders or audio interfaces.

Analog Or Digital

There are generally two types of mixers: digital and analog. Analog mixers use electrical circuits and filters. Digital mixers convert the analog signal to digital audio data which is then sent to an onboard processing unit. The signal is then converted back into the analog domain and sent to personal monitor systems or speakers. Both mixers will offer basic levels and pan control. However, there are advantages and disadvantages to each type. An analog mixer is more cost-effective and easier to use, while digital mixers are more complicated but provide more functionality. This will be discussed in greater detail below.

EQ

A great audio mixer should have an equalizer section. A simple, three-band equalizer is fine. However, there are times when it is helpful to have more precise EQ options, e.g. when working with live music and nuances. A Graphic EQ, however, will help you achieve the best tone possible because it covers a wider range of frequencies.

Portability

If you are looking to bring your mixers with you, portable mixers will be the best choice. Mixers that are too small may not be the most efficient. Larger mixers are also more portable. Mixers are often required to transport large shows between venues. You probably know exactly what mixer you require if you are looking for large and portable mixers.
A smaller mixer is more convenient and portable in most situations. A mixer that has less than 16 channels is best if you are concerned about portability. While 16 channels are not an exact rule, they represent the compromise between small and large mixers. Make sure your mixer is protected and has a strong chassis. Mixers can even come with knobs or faders that have very delicate settings. This is important!

Channel Count

Frame size, also known as channel count, is the number of sources that can be attached to a mixer's input channels simultaneously. A 24-channel mixer, for example, will let you connect 24 sources simultaneously, but there might be other inputs such as Talkback and Tape. A few smaller consoles can provide stereo channels as well as mono channels. Even though they are part of the same channel, stereo channels count as two inputs. It is crucial to remember this when making your choice.

Compatibility

The mixer must be compatible with your software. You will have problems recording or running a live performance if the software is not compatible. To ensure that the mixer is compatible with DAWs, it's important to verify compatibility during the search. It must be connected to a USB port on your computer. Without a USB interface, your DAW might not function. Although it is unlikely, it is better to be safe that sorry.

Buses

Mixers can transmit at most one mix to the stage. Auxiliary buses, also known as "aux buses", are used to do this. Every channel has a level controller for each aux send. By setting individual aux-send levels on any channel you wish to hear in your mix, you can build your own monitor mix. An aux bus output can be used to connect an in-ear or stage monitor. You can make a number of different monitor mixes if you only use aux busses for monitoring. Aux buses can be mono so two aux buses will be required to create a stereo mix of monitors for your in-ear system. Consider your requirements.

Connection Types

It's not enough to be able to identify the sources that you will connect to your mixer. A mixer that has enough preamps for microphones is a good choice if you intend to connect them primarily. To reduce the number of direct boxes, ensure that your mixer includes at least one line input if you intend to connect line-level sources.

FAQs

Can You Get A Mixer With A USB Mic Input?

Professional mixers don't have either a USB input or interface. This is because USB mics don't have as strong a connection as 1/4" or XLR jacks. USB microphones are great options for those on a budget who need to connect directly to the computer. However, audio mixers have a greater capability. Some mixers include a USB interface.

Why Are Audio Mixers So Expensive?

They are worth every penny for their quality, functionality, and reliability. Mixers for audio require much effort, labor and are time-consuming. A well-balanced transformer is a costly and time-consuming task. Audio mixers can be a good investment.

How Long Do Audio Mixers Last?

Audio mixers are expected to last between 3-5 years. They are able to return the money they invested. Audio mixers with a life expectancy of 5+ years are not considered obsolete. These mixers can last for a very long time, and they are easily scaleable to accommodate technological changes.

What Softwares Work Best With Audio Mixers?

It takes careful planning and consideration to find software that is reliable. The best softwares can be free or they can cost you money. Wondershare Filmore and Adobe Audition are our top picks.

Can A Mixer Replace An Audio Interface?

You can, to a certain extent... however, a stereo mixer will not work the same as a multichannel interfacing which allows you to simultaneously record different audio sources from multiple tracks.

Does A Mixer Improve Sound Quality?

An audio mixer's primary purpose is to mix and match sounds, as well as alter the bass, middles, and treble. The sum of all the input channels can be merged to produce better sound. A mixer can optimize sound but also filter it. The mixer improves sound quality at the input.

Do I Need A Mixer If I Have An Audio Interface?

A mixer is a great addition to your purchase if you find that you need more audio inputs than your existing interface allows.

What Is The Difference Between An Analog And USB Mixer?

A standalone analog mixer can mix audio from multiple sources. You can then output the audio to a PA system or speaker system. An USB mixer can do this same thing but also has an interface. You can also connect the USB mixer to your computer so you can record it in software.

Conclusion

Before making a purchase decision, the reader should do the following. It's critical to keep these factors in mind when looking for the best mixer for ableton since they can help to ensure that you discover what's worth the investment. If you need another option for best mixer for ableton, you should look into DJ Audio Mixer - 3-Channel Bluetooth DJ Controller Sound Mixer. Hope you have a nice shopping day!


0 ratings

About Tim Powers

Tim Powers

Tim Powers is an audio equipment & home theater gadget reviewer and the editor of TheAudioInsights.com. He has been involved in the home theater hobby since the late 1990s when he purchased his first AV receiver. Tim is also a writer, with articles appearing in various online and print publications.