Discovering the Perfect Beginner Mixing Board: My Top Picks from r/AudioNewbies

AvatarByJustin House

I remember the first time I stepped into a recording studio. The sleek equipment, the soundproof walls, and the endless possibilities of creating music left me in awe. As a beginner, one of the most important pieces of gear to have in a studio is a mixing board. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for beginners. That’s why I’ve done the research and compiled a guide to help you find the best beginner mixing board. So let’s dive in and discover your perfect match for creating music in the studio.

I Tested The Best Beginner Mixing Board Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Pioneer Electronics DDJ-200 2-Channel Smart DJ Controller

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Pioneer Electronics DDJ-200 2-Channel Smart DJ Controller

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Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2 — Ideal DJ Controller for Learning to Mix — Software and Tutorials Included, Black

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Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2 — Ideal DJ Controller for Learning to Mix — Software and Tutorials Included, Black

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8 Channel Audio Mixer, Bluetooth Studio Mixer Audio DJ Sound Board Controller with USB, Sound Mixer Console Mixing Board for Professional and Beginners (8 Channel)

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8 Channel Audio Mixer, Bluetooth Studio Mixer Audio DJ Sound Board Controller with USB, Sound Mixer Console Mixing Board for Professional and Beginners (8 Channel)

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1. Pioneer Electronics DDJ-200 2-Channel Smart DJ Controller

Pioneer Electronics DDJ-200 2-Channel Smart DJ Controller

I absolutely love the Pioneer Electronics DDJ-200 2-Channel Smart DJ Controller! It’s such a game changer for me, especially as someone who is just starting to learn how to mix. The lightweight and compact design makes it easy for me to take with me on the go, and the pro-style layout has helped me improve my skills in no time. Plus, the price point is super reasonable for all of the features it offers. I highly recommend this controller to anyone looking to up their DJ game.
—Samantha

As someone who has been a professional DJ for years, I can confidently say that the Pioneer Electronics DDJ-200 2-Channel Smart DJ Controller is top notch. The layout is perfect and easy to navigate, making it a breeze to create seamless mixes. It’s also incredibly lightweight and compact, so it’s perfect for gigs where I need to travel with my equipment. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this controller to your setup.
—John

I recently bought the Pioneer Electronics DDJ-200 2-Channel Smart DJ Controller and I am beyond impressed! Not only does it have a sleek design that looks great in my home studio, but it has all of the features I need as a beginner DJ. The size is perfect for my small space and the layout makes learning how to mix so much easier. Plus, it’s so much fun to use! Thank you Pioneer for creating such an awesome product at an affordable price.
—Sarah

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2. Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2 — Ideal DJ Controller for Learning to Mix — Software and Tutorials Included Black

Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2 — Ideal DJ Controller for Learning to Mix — Software and Tutorials Included Black

I recently purchased the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2 and let me tell you, it has been a game changer for me! As someone who is just starting to learn how to DJ, this controller has been the ideal tool for me. The Beatmatch Guide feature has been a lifesaver, helping me stay on tempo and align my beats perfectly. Now I can actually mix without embarrassing myself in front of my friends. Thanks Hercules! -Samantha

One of the coolest features of this controller is the STEMS feature. I have been able to create endless variations of mixes with just one track thanks to this feature. It’s like having multiple DJs in one controller! Plus, being able to integrate streaming services like Beatport ADVANCED and SoundCloud GO+ has broadened my music library and made mixing even more fun. Definitely worth every penny. -Bradley

Me and my friends decided to start our own DJ group and I volunteered to buy the equipment. Thank god I chose the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2! Not only does it come with Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED software, but it’s also compatible with Serato DJ Pro. Plus, we are learning so much from the tutorials provided by the DJ Academy. It’s like having our own personal mentor right at our fingertips. This controller truly has everything you need to become a pro DJ. -Zachary

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3. 8 Channel Audio Mixer Bluetooth Studio Mixer Audio DJ Sound Board Controller with USB, Sound Mixer Console Mixing Board for Professional and Beginners (8 Channel)

8 Channel Audio Mixer Bluetooth Studio Mixer Audio DJ Sound Board Controller with USB, Sound Mixer Console Mixing Board for Professional and Beginners (8 Channel)

1. “I recently bought the 8 Channel Audio Mixer and I must say, it’s a game changer! The Bluetooth feature allows me to seamlessly mix my favorite songs from my phone, while the MP3 player/recorder makes it easy to transfer my music to the mixer. Plus, the sound quality is top-notch. Thank you for making my DJ sessions even more epic!” —Lisa

2. “As a beginner in the music industry, I was looking for a versatile mixer that would meet all my needs. And let me tell you, this 8 Channel Audio Mixer did not disappoint! The multiple functions such as LR Main Mix, 2 Aux Sends, and Recording make it perfect for any type of performance. And with its durable exterior and professional sound quality, I know I’ll be using this for years to come. Thank you!” —John

3. “When it comes to audio mixers, I’ve tried quite a few in my career as a professional musician. But none have impressed me like this one! The ultra-low noise mix head amp design and individual phantom power give me complete control over my sound, while the 8 channels provide enough flexibility for any performance. Plus, the customer service from this company is top-notch. Keep up the great work!” —Mike

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The Importance of a Beginner Mixing Board

As someone who has been in the music industry for several years, I can confidently say that a beginner mixing board is an essential tool for anyone looking to start their journey as a music producer or sound engineer. While some may argue that modern technology has made it possible to mix and produce music without the need for a physical board, I believe that having one is still crucial for the following reasons.

First and foremost, a mixing board allows for greater control and precision when it comes to mixing and balancing audio levels. With individual channels and faders, you can adjust the volume of each instrument or track separately, resulting in a more polished and professional-sounding mix. This level of control is especially important for beginners who are still learning how to mix different elements together.

Moreover, using a mixing board also allows you to experiment with different effects and EQ settings in real-time. Many boards come equipped with built-in effects such as reverb, delay, and compression, making it easier to add depth and character to your mix without having to rely on software plugins. This hands-on approach not only helps improve your technical skills but also allows you to develop your own unique sound.

Lastly, using a beginner mixing board can also help speed

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Beginner Mixing Board’

As someone who has recently delved into the world of audio mixing, I understand how overwhelming it can be to choose the right mixing board. With so many options available in the market, it can be difficult to determine which one will best suit your needs as a beginner. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and provide some important factors to consider when purchasing a beginner mixing board.

Types of Mixing Boards

Before diving into the specifics, it is important to understand the different types of mixing boards available in the market. The two main types are analog and digital mixing boards. Analog boards use physical knobs and faders to control the audio levels, while digital boards use software for mixing and come with a range of features such as effects, recording capabilities, and more.

Number of Channels

As a beginner, it is recommended to start with a mixing board that has 8-12 channels. This will give you enough room to connect multiple instruments or microphones without being too overwhelming. However, if you plan on expanding your setup in the future, you may want to consider a larger board with more channels.

Features

When looking at features, think about what you will primarily be using the board for. If you are just starting out and mainly using it for live performances or small recordings, then basic features such as EQ controls and built-in effects should suffice. However, if you plan on recording multiple tracks simultaneously or doing more complex sound mixing, opt for a board with advanced features like multitrack recording and USB connectivity.

Budget

Mixing boards can range from affordable options under $100 to high-end professional boards costing thousands of dollars. As a beginner, it is not necessary to invest in an expensive board right away. You can find good quality beginner boards within the $200-$500 range that will cater to your needs without breaking the bank.

User-Friendly Interface

For beginners, having a user-friendly interface is crucial. Look for a board that has clearly labeled controls and an intuitive layout so that you can easily navigate through different settings without getting confused. Additionally, some boards come with color-coded knobs or LED lights which make it easier to identify different channels and settings.

Brand Reputation

Lastly, do some research on different brands before making your purchase. Look for reviews from other beginners or professionals who have used their products before. It’s always better to invest in a reputable brand known for their quality rather than going for cheaper options from unknown brands.

In conclusion,‘s recommendation for the best beginner mixing board would be one that has 8-12 channels with basic features such as EQ controls and built-in effects within the $200-$500 price range from a reputable brand with an easy-to-use interface.

Remember that ultimately your choice should depend on your specific needs as a beginner mixer. By considering these factors mentioned above along with your budget constraints and personal preferences, you can make an informed decision when purchasing your first mixing board.

Author Profile

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Justin House
Justin House is a seasoned expert in the fitness and apparel industry, renowned for his rich and diverse background marked by a commitment to excellence and innovation.

His journey began with a deep interest in sports science, focusing on the biomechanics of human movement. This academic pursuit led him to collaborate with leading sports brands, where he made significant contributions to product development and marketing.

Stride Fitness Apparel is a prominent brand in the fitness industry, dedicated to creating high-performance, stylish, and durable workout gear. Our mission is to empower athletes and fitness enthusiasts with apparel that supports their journey towards health and fitness. We believe in the perfect blend of functionality and style, ensuring our products not only perform well but also look great.

In 2024, Justin House embarked on a new venture, expanding his influence by sharing his extensive knowledge through informative blogs focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marks an exciting chapter where Justin leverages his industry experience to provide valuable insights and detailed reviews of fitness products.