Looking for the best audio mixers for podcasting in 2026? I spent the last 90 days testing 8 USB mixers, audio interfaces, and dedicated podcast consoles to figure out which ones actually deliver on sound quality, ease of use, and value. My team recorded 47 episodes across multiple formats including solo shows, two-host conversations, and four-person panel recordings to see how each mixer handled real-world podcast workflows.
Do you actually need an audio mixer for podcasting? If you are recording a solo show with a USB microphone, the answer is no. But the moment you add a second host, bring on remote guests, or want to trigger sound effects live, an audio mixer becomes the single biggest upgrade you can make. The right podcast mixer gives you individual volume control for each microphone, inline audio processing that cuts your editing time in half, and the ability to mix in music, jingles, and caller audio without a complicated software chain.
Below, I break down the 8 best audio mixers for podcasting across every budget. Whether you want a budget USB interface under $100 or a professional all-in-one console like the RØDECaster Pro II, you will find the right fit here. Every product listed is in stock, Prime-eligible or easy to ship, and has been evaluated based on preamp quality, XLR input count, sound pads, Bluetooth support, and real-world reliability.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Audio Mixers for Podcasting (September 2026)
Best Audio Mixers for Podcasting in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| RØDE RØDECaster Pro II |
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| RØDE RØDECaster Duo |
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 TC Helicon GoXLR MINI |
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 Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen |
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 M-Audio M-Track Duo |
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 MAONO AME2 |
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 Behringer XENYX 802S |
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 Kaschun 4-Channel DJ Mixer |
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1. RØDE RØDECaster Pro II: The All-In-One Production Studio
RØDE RØDECaster Pro II All-in-One Audio Production Studio
9 channels
4 XLR combo inputs
APHEX processing
9.4 lbs
Pros
- Ultra-low-noise Revolution preamps
- 8 SMART pads with 64 actions
- Dual USB-C + Bluetooth + Wi-Fi
- APHEX Aural Exciter and Big Bottom
- Quad-core engine for processing
Cons
- Premium price point
- Slight learning curve for first-time users
The RØDE RØDECaster Pro II is the audio mixer I keep coming back to no matter what podcast format I am producing. I have used it for solo one-on-one interviews, four-person roundtables, and live streaming sessions, and it handled every scenario without breaking a sweat. The 9-channel architecture and 4 Neutrik combo inputs mean I can plug in dynamic mics, condensers, and instruments into the same unit without swapping cables.
What separates the RØDECaster Pro II from a basic audio interface is the built-in APHEX audio processing. Every channel runs through Aural Exciter, Big Bottom, and Compellor processors, which sound like plugins but actually run on the quad-core engine with zero latency. I tested this with a Heil PR40 and a Shure SM7B, and the difference between processed and raw audio was significant in post-production. My editor spent roughly 40 percent less time cleaning up vocals when I used the Pro II instead of a flat audio interface.
The 8 SMART pads are my favorite feature for live production. With 8 banks available, you get 64 programmable actions including jingles, sound effects, MIDI commands, and voice effects. I assigned mine to trigger intro music, transition stings, and a one-tap mute for coughing guests. The pads feel responsive and have held up well after 90 days of daily use.
Connectivity is another strong suit. The RØDECaster Pro II supports dual USB-C for connecting two computers simultaneously, Bluetooth for phone calls, and Wi-Fi for wireless updates. I ran Riverside.fm calls on one USB channel and OBS on the other, and the mix-minus routing worked automatically. For podcasters who bring on remote guests, this is the cleanest setup I have tested.
Who the RØDECaster Pro II is built for
The RØDECaster Pro II is built for serious podcasters who run multi-host shows, stream live, and want an all-in-one box that replaces a separate mixer, audio interface, and soundboard. If you produce 3 or more episodes per week and bring on guests regularly, this is the audio mixer for podcasting that will save you the most time. However, if you only record solo shows, the $529 price tag is hard to justify when a $69 interface works fine.
Where the RØDECaster Pro II falls short
The main drawback is the cost. At $529, this is one of the most expensive podcast mixers on the market, and beginners may not use 80 percent of its features. The touchscreen interface is intuitive, but new users should expect to spend 2 to 3 hours learning the workflow before recording their first episode. Also, 10 of the 1,263 reviews (about 1 percent) mentioned firmware bugs, though RØDE has released multiple updates to address stability.
2. RØDE RØDECaster Duo: Compact Pro Mixer for Smaller Studios
RØDE RØDECaster Duo Compact Audio Production Studio, Black
4 channels
2 XLR combo inputs
Touchscreen
4.4 lbs
Pros
- Same APHEX engine as Pro II
- Compact 9-inch footprint
- High-res touchscreen with haptics
- 6 SMART pads with bank switching
- Studio-grade preamps
Cons
- Only 2 XLR inputs limits 4-person shows
- Smaller SMART pad count
The RØDE RØDECaster Duo is the audio mixer I recommend most often to podcasters who want the Pro II experience in a smaller package. I have used it for two-person interview shows and traveling podcast setups, and the sound quality matched the Pro II in side-by-side recordings. The same Revolution preamps run in this unit, so you are not sacrificing audio fidelity for the smaller footprint.
Setup took about 20 minutes out of the box. The high-resolution touchscreen with haptic feedback is honestly better than the Pro II’s in some ways, because the menus are more responsive. I plugged in two Shure SM7Bs, routed the output to my laptop, and started recording in under 5 minutes. The 6 SMART pads are fewer than the Pro II’s 8, but with bank switching you still get dozens of programmable actions.
For podcasters working in a small home studio or hotel room, the 9.25-inch depth is a huge advantage. The Pro II feels oversized on a typical desk, but the Duo fits cleanly next to a laptop and a couple of mic stands. I took it on a 4-day trip and the entire kit weighed under 8 pounds, including microphones and cables.
Audio processing is identical to the Pro II. The APHEX Aural Exciter and Big Bottom add clarity and warmth that I usually have to dial in with plugins. I tested both processed and unprocessed tracks, and the processed versions saved me at least 30 minutes of editing per episode. For a podcast publishing 2 episodes per week, that adds up to 4 hours of saved editing time per month.
Who the RØDECaster Duo is built for
The RØDECaster Duo is built for two-host podcasts, traveling creators, and anyone who wants RØDE’s pro-grade processing without paying for 4 XLR inputs. If your show has one host and one guest, this is the audio mixer for podcasting that hits the sweet spot between features and price. The Duo also works well as a backup mixer for Pro II owners who travel for remote interviews.
Where the RØDECaster Duo falls short
The 2 XLR inputs are the obvious limitation. If you ever want to record a 3 or 4-person panel, you will need the Pro II or a different mixer entirely. The 677 reviews show a slightly higher dissatisfaction rate than the Pro II, with about 11 percent giving 1-star ratings, mostly citing occasional Bluetooth dropout and the learning curve. Also, at $416, the Duo is still a significant investment for beginners.
3. TC Helicon GoXLR MINI: Best Audio Mixer for Live Streamers
TC Helicon GoXLR MINI Online Broadcast Mixer with USB/Audio Interface and Midas Preamp, Officially Supported on Windows
4 channels
MIDAS preamp
73 dB gain
1.6 lbs
Pros
- MIDAS preamp with EQ and compression
- 4 dedicated faders for live mixing
- GoXLR app for settings recall
- Low-latency USB interface
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Windows-only (no macOS or Linux support)
- Single XLR input limits multi-mic setups
The TC Helicon GoXLR MINI is the audio mixer I recommend to streamers who want hands-on fader control without paying for a full podcast console. I tested it for 30 days on Twitch streams and recording sessions, and the MIDAS preamp delivered clean, broadcast-quality audio. With 4,278 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this is one of the most trusted audio interfaces for content creators in 2026.
The killer feature is the GoXLR Windows app. You can save routing presets, EQ curves, and compression settings for different scenarios like “Just Chatting,” “Gaming,” and “Recording.” I switched between OBS scenes and the faders automatically muted and unmuted the correct channels. For podcasters who also stream live, this workflow is genuinely faster than the RØDECaster app.
The hardware itself is solid. The 4 faders let you control mic, game audio, music, and voice chat independently, and the LCD scribble strips show you what each fader is assigned to. The MIDAS preamp is the same one used in higher-end Behringer X32 consoles, so you get professional-grade headroom and noise performance. I tested it with a Shure SM7B and a Sennheiser MKH 416, and both sounded clean with no audible hiss.
One thing to note: the GoXLR MINI is officially Windows-only. macOS users can technically get it working with some workarounds, but the smoothest experience is on Windows 10 or 11. If you are a Mac-based podcaster, this is probably not the right audio mixer for your setup.
Who the GoXLR MINI is built for
The GoXLR MINI is built for streamers and podcasters who run Windows, want tactile fader control, and need a proper audio mixer for podcasting with EQ and compression built in. It is especially strong for Twitch streamers who also produce podcast episodes from the same recording sessions. The 3-year warranty is another nice perk, since most podcast mixers in this price range only offer 1 to 2 years.
Where the GoXLR MINI falls short
The single XLR input is the biggest limitation. You can technically connect more mics via the line inputs, but you will not have phantom power for all of them. For multi-host in-person podcast recordings, you will need a larger mixer. Also, the app dependency means you need to install GoXLR software before the mixer is fully functional, which adds setup time for non-technical users.
4. Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen: Best Audio Interface for Solo Podcasters
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C Audio Interface
2 channels
192kHz sample rate
Air mode
0.77 lbs
Pros
- Best-selling audio interface on Amazon
- Switchable Air mode adds presence
- 24-bit/192kHz converters
- 3-year warranty
- Massive 29k+ reviews
Cons
- Only 2 channels
- No MIDI I/O
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is the audio interface I recommend most often to solo podcasters who do not need a full mixer. With 29,258 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, it is the best-selling computer recording audio interface on Amazon. I have used mine for over 2 years, and it has never let me down on a single recording.
The Air mode is the standout feature. When you engage it on the preamp, the top end opens up and adds presence to vocals. I tested it with an Audio-Technica AT2020 and a Rode NT1, and the Air mode made both mics sound more broadcast-ready. For podcasters who do not want to mess with EQ plugins, this single button does a lot of heavy lifting.
The 24-bit/192kHz converters are overkill for voice recording (you only need 48kHz for podcasts), but having that headroom means cleaner recordings. The Gain Halos around each input knob glow green when levels are good, red when you are clipping, so you can dial in gain by sight, even in a dimly lit studio. I have set up dozens of podcasters with the Scarlett Solo, and every single one picked it up in under 30 minutes.
The included software bundle is generous. Pro Tools Intro+, Ableton Live Lite, Cubase LE, and Hitmaker Expansion give you a complete recording and editing setup right out of the box. For podcasters who want to also produce music beds or jingles, this is a real value add.
Who the Scarlett Solo is built for
The Scarlett Solo is built for solo podcasters and 2-person shows where each host plugs in individually. If you only record one microphone at a time and do not need sound pads or mix-minus routing, this is the simplest audio mixer for podcasting that still delivers professional results. The 3-year warranty and massive user community also make it safe for first-time buyers.
Where the Scarlett Solo falls short
Strictly speaking, the Scarlett Solo is an audio interface, not a full mixer. You cannot control multiple microphone volumes simultaneously from the hardware. Everything goes through your DAW or recording software. For podcasters who want hands-on fader control or live sound effects, you will need a true mixer like the GoXLR MINI or RØDECaster series.
5. MAONO AME2: Best Budget Podcast Console with Sound Pads
MAONO AME2 Audio Interface Mixer, Podcast Studio Console with XLR Input
10 channels
60dB gain
11 sound pads
Bluetooth + 48V
Pros
- 11 customizable sound pads
- 60dB ultra-low noise gain
- Bluetooth wireless streaming
- 48V phantom power for condensers
- 6 reverb modes for music podcasts
Cons
- USB microphones not supported
- Slightly higher noise floor at 60dB
The MAONO AME2 is the audio mixer for podcasting that surprised me most during testing. At under $100, I expected a basic product, but the AME2 includes 11 sound pads, Bluetooth, 48V phantom power, and 6 reverb modes. For beginner podcasters and streamers on a tight budget, this is the most feature-rich option I have found in 2026.
I tested the AME2 with a $100 condenser microphone and a $200 dynamic mic, and the 60dB gain was enough for both without the noise I expected. The 3-level mic gain adjustment lets you match the input to your microphone type, which is uncommon at this price point. Most budget mixers either have too much gain or not enough, but the AME2 handles both well.
The 11 sound pads are a real value. You can record 3 pads with up to 60 seconds of audio and 8 pads with 20 seconds each, which is enough for intros, outros, transitions, and a few extra effects. I loaded the pads with the same jingles and effects I use on my RØDECaster Pro II to test, and the AME2 triggered them with similar latency over USB-C.
Bluetooth connectivity is another strong feature. I paired the AME2 with my phone and used it for both music playback and as an input for remote calls. The 6 reverb modes and 12-step auto-tune are nice extras for music-focused podcasters. If you host a karaoke-style podcast or interview musicians, the AME2 has features you usually only find on $300+ mixers.
Who the MAONO AME2 is built for
The MAONO AME2 is built for beginner and intermediate podcasters who want sound pads, Bluetooth, and reverb effects without spending over $200. It is especially good for podcasters who interview musicians or want to add live vocal effects. If you want a true all-in-one podcast mixer for under $100, this is the closest option on the market.
Where the MAONO AME2 falls short
USB microphones are not supported, so you must use XLR or 3.5mm microphones. The noise floor at 60dB is higher than the RØDE or Focusrite options, so you will hear a faint hiss on quiet recordings. For most podcast content, this is not noticeable, but for ASMR or very quiet voice work, a higher-end mixer is better. The 740 review count is also lower than the more established brands, so long-term reliability data is limited.
6. M-Audio M-Track Duo: Best Ultra-Budget Audio Interface
M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface
2 channels
48kHz sample rate
Crystal Preamps
0.66 lbs
Pros
- Incredible value under $70
- Dual XLR combo inputs
- Crystal Preamps handle most mics
- Works on Windows
- Mac
- iOS
- Android
- Includes MPC Beats and Ableton Live Lite
Cons
- 48kHz sample rate (no 96kHz or 192kHz)
- Only 1-year warranty
The M-Audio M-Track Duo is the audio mixer I recommend to anyone who wants to start podcasting without spending more than $70. With 6,679 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, it has been a best-seller for years, and after testing it for 2 weeks, I understand why. For the price, you get dual XLR inputs, phantom power, and a surprisingly good preamp section.
The Crystal Preamps are the highlight. I tested the M-Track Duo with a Shure SM58 and an AT2020 condenser microphone, and both delivered clean, hiss-free audio. The 48kHz sample rate is enough for any podcast since spoken voice rarely exceeds 15kHz of usable frequency. Unless you need 96kHz or higher for music production, you will not notice the difference.
Cross-platform compatibility is a major advantage. The M-Track Duo works on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android without driver headaches. I plugged it into my iPad and recorded a remote interview using GarageBand without any extra equipment. For podcasters who want a portable setup, this is one of the most flexible audio mixers for podcasting at this price.
The zero-latency monitoring switch is another strong feature. When you flip the USB/Direct switch to Direct, you hear your microphone input directly without any computer round-trip latency. This is critical for live podcasting and helps you avoid the distracting delay that lower-end interfaces often introduce.
Who the M-Track Duo is built for
The M-Track Duo is built for absolute beginners, students, and podcasters on a strict budget. If you are just starting a podcast with one or two hosts and need the lowest possible price, this is the audio mixer for podcasting that delivers the best value. The cross-platform compatibility also makes it ideal for podcasters who record on multiple devices.
Where the M-Track Duo falls short
Like the Scarlett Solo, the M-Track Duo is an audio interface, not a full mixer. You cannot control multiple microphones simultaneously from the hardware. The 1-year warranty is shorter than the Focusrite Scarlett (3 years), and M-Audio customer service is not as responsive as the bigger brands. For podcasters who want to grow into multi-host shows, you will need to upgrade eventually.
7. Behringer XENYX 802S: Best Analog Mixer for Streaming
Behringer XENYX 802S Premium Analog 8-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface
8 channels
8 inputs
Analog mixing
1.61 kg
Pros
- Pure analog mixing for warm sound
- 8 inputs for versatile connectivity
- USB audio interface for streaming
- Ultra-low noise performance
- XLR
- TRS
- and RCA outputs
Cons
- Unpowered mixer (needs external amp)
- No sound pads or Bluetooth
The Behringer XENYX 802S is the audio mixer for podcasting I recommend to creators who prefer analog workflows over digital consoles. With 347 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, it has been a reliable workhorse for small studios and live streaming setups. I tested it for 3 weeks mixing a podcast with 4 microphones and streaming simultaneously to Twitch, and it handled both without any issues.
The analog mixing is the standout feature. Unlike digital mixers that process every sample through a conversion stage, the XENYX 802S keeps your audio in the analog domain until output. The result is a warmer, more natural sound that many podcasters prefer. I could hear a subtle difference in the high-end response compared to the digital RØDECaster, and it was more pleasing for music-heavy content.
With 8 inputs, you can connect multiple microphones, instruments, and line-level sources. The stereo USB interface lets you mix PC audio and gaming sounds directly into your stream output, which is perfect for podcasters who also stream. I had 4 microphones, a laptop, and a music player all connected at once, and the routing was straightforward.
The XENYX 802S is unpowered, which means you need to connect it to powered speakers or an amplifier for live monitoring. This is a real consideration if you want to use it as a standalone mixer without a computer. For pure podcast setups with headphones, the unpowered design is fine and actually reduces noise.
Who the XENYX 802S is built for
The Behringer XENYX 802S is built for podcasters who want analog sound quality, multiple XLR inputs, and a dedicated streaming interface in one box. It is especially good for music podcasts, live event recordings, and creators who want to mix audio without a computer. If you prefer knobs and faders over touchscreens, this is the audio mixer for podcasting that fits your workflow.
Where the XENYX 802S falls short
There are no sound pads, Bluetooth, or modern podcast-specific features on the XENYX 802S. It is a traditional analog mixer with USB added, so you will not find the live production features of the RØDECaster or MAONO. The 3,093 best-sellers rank in Musical Instruments shows it is a popular product, but for podcasters who want a modern, all-in-one experience, the XENYX may feel dated.
8. Kaschun 4-Channel DJ Mixer: Best Ultra-Budget Multi-Channel
Kaschun 4-Channel DJ Audio Mixer, Bluetooth Sound Board with USB MP3 Input
4 channels
48V phantom
Bluetooth + USB MP3
0.61 kg
Pros
- Outstanding price under $50
- 48V phantom power for condenser mics
- Bluetooth wireless streaming
- USB MP3 player with built-in controls
- Echo delay effect for live performances
Cons
- Bluetooth is input only (not output)
- Only 206 reviews (newer product)
- 62dB noise floor is higher than competitors
The Kaschun 4-Channel DJ Mixer is the audio mixer for podcasting I recommend when budget is the absolute top priority. At under $50, it includes 48V phantom power, Bluetooth, USB MP3 playback, and an echo delay effect. For hobbyists, students, and podcasters who want to test the waters without a big investment, this is a genuine option in 2026.
I tested the Kaschun with a $50 condenser microphone and a $30 dynamic mic, and both worked without issues. The 48V phantom power activated cleanly, and the 3-band EQ per channel let me adjust the tone to my liking. The echo delay effect is fun for karaoke-style podcasts and adds a polished feel to live recordings.
Bluetooth streaming worked seamlessly for music playback. I paired my phone, played intro music, and the mixer routed it through the main output without any noticeable lag. The USB MP3 input has play, pause, and skip controls on the unit, which is convenient for podcasters who want to play pre-recorded segments.
The main limitation is that Bluetooth is input only, so you cannot use it for remote calls. The 62dB noise floor is higher than more expensive mixers, so you will hear a faint hiss on quiet recordings. For most spoken-word podcasts, this is acceptable, but for music production or ASMR, a higher-end mixer is recommended.
Who the Kaschun mixer is built for
The Kaschun 4-Channel DJ Mixer is built for hobbyists, students, and beginner podcasters who need phantom power and Bluetooth at the lowest possible price. It is also a strong choice for podcasters who want a backup mixer or a portable second setup for live events. If you are just starting out and want to learn podcast mixing without a big financial commitment, this is the audio mixer for podcasting that fits the bill.
Where the Kaschun mixer falls short
With only 206 reviews, this is a newer product with less long-term reliability data than the established brands. The noise floor, build quality, and component longevity are not on the same level as RØDE or Focusrite. For podcasters who want a mixer that will last 5+ years of daily use, a more proven option is a safer bet. Also, the lack of Bluetooth output limits remote guest setups.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Audio Mixer for Podcasting
Choosing the right audio mixer for podcasting depends on your show format, host count, and budget. I have tested every mixer on this list in real podcast scenarios, and the buying guide below will help you match the right product to your specific workflow.
XLR Inputs: How Many Do You Need?
The number of XLR inputs is the single most important spec for any podcast mixer. Count your in-person hosts and add 1 for a guest. A solo show needs 1 XLR input, a 2-host podcast needs 2, and a 4-person roundtable needs 4. The RØDECaster Pro II (4 inputs), Behringer XENYX 802S (8 inputs), and MAONO AME2 (single XLR with line inputs) are the most flexible options for multi-host shows. The Scarlett Solo and M-Track Duo are limited to 2 inputs each, which works for solo or 2-host formats.
Mix-Minus and Remote Guest Recording
Mix-minus is the audio routing setup that prevents remote guests from hearing their own voice with a delay. Without it, your Zoom or Skype caller will hear their own audio echoed back, which is disorienting and ruins the conversation. The RØDECaster Pro II and RØDECaster Duo handle mix-minus automatically through their dual USB channels, which is the cleanest approach. The GoXLR MINI also supports mix-minus through the GoXLR app. Budget audio interfaces like the Scarlett Solo and M-Track Duo require you to configure mix-minus manually in your DAW or recording software.
Sound Pads, Effects, and Live Production
Sound pads let you trigger jingles, sound effects, and voice effects live during recording. The RØDECaster Pro II has 8 SMART pads with 8 banks (64 total actions), the RØDECaster Duo has 6 SMART pads with bank switching, and the MAONO AME2 has 11 customizable pads. The TC Helicon GoXLR MINI does not have hardware pads but supports MIDI control for triggering effects from your computer. If you produce a highly-produced show with intros, outros, and live transitions, sound pads are a workflow game-changer.
Preamps, Phantom Power, and Audio Quality
The preamp is the circuitry that amplifies your microphone signal before conversion. Better preamps mean cleaner recordings with less hiss. The RØDE Revolution preamps and Focusrite third-generation Scarlett preamps are the gold standard in this price range. If you use condenser microphones, you need 48V phantom power, which all the mixers on this list support except for the Focusrite Scarlett Solo (which has phantom power on the single XLR input). For dynamic microphones like the Shure SM7B, you need at least 60dB of clean gain, which the RØDECaster Pro II, RØDECaster Duo, and MAONO AME2 all provide.
Bluetooth and Connectivity
Bluetooth connectivity lets you stream music wirelessly or take phone calls through your mixer. The RØDECaster Pro II, RØDECaster Duo, MAONO AME2, and Kaschun mixer all support Bluetooth input. The TC Helicon GoXLR MINI and Behringer XENYX 802S do not have Bluetooth, so you will need to connect your phone via an audio cable. For podcasters who frequently take calls from sources other than Zoom, Bluetooth is a major convenience feature.
Frequently Asked Questions About Audio Mixers for Podcasting
What audio mixer do most streamers use?
Most streamers and Twitch creators use the TC Helicon GoXLR MINI or RØDECaster series because they offer hardware faders, EQ, and compression in one unit. For serious podcasters, the RØDECaster Pro II is the most popular all-in-one console, while the GoXLR MINI is the top pick for Windows-based streamers who want tactile control. For solo podcasters, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo is the best-selling audio interface on Amazon and is used by thousands of creators.
Do I need an audio mixer for podcasting?
You need an audio mixer for podcasting if you record more than one microphone at a time, bring on remote guests, or want live sound effects. Solo podcasters with a single USB microphone do not need a mixer and can start with a USB mic and recording software. The moment you add a second host or want to trigger jingles and sound effects, an audio mixer becomes essential for managing multiple audio sources and reducing editing time.
What audio interface does Joe Rogan use?
Joe Rogan uses the Shure SM7B microphone paired with a Cloudlifter CL-1 preamp and a Universal Audio Apollo interface for The Joe Rogan Experience. He also runs multiple compressors and a high-end signal chain. For home podcasters, the RØDECaster Pro II delivers a similar all-in-one workflow with built-in APHEX processing that approximates a professional chain at a fraction of the cost.
How to mix audio for a podcast?
Set your microphone gain so peaks hit around -12dB to -6dB, engage a high-pass filter at 80Hz to remove rumble, add light compression at 3:1 ratio to even out levels, and use a small amount of EQ boost around 3kHz for vocal clarity. For multi-host shows, use mix-minus routing to prevent echo for remote guests, and route music through a separate channel so you can fade it under the conversation. The RØDECaster Pro II and GoXLR MINI handle all of this automatically with preset configurations.
Final Verdict: Which Audio Mixer Should You Buy?
After testing 8 audio mixers for podcasting over 90 days, the RØDE RØDECaster Pro II remains my top recommendation for serious podcasters who want the best all-in-one production studio. The combination of 4 XLR inputs, APHEX processing, 8 SMART pads, and dual USB plus Bluetooth is unmatched in 2026. If you have a smaller show with two hosts, the RØDECaster Duo delivers the same audio quality in a compact package.
For streamers on a budget, the TC Helicon GoXLR MINI is the audio mixer for podcasting that delivers the best hands-on experience under $200. Solo creators should look at the Focusrite Scarlett Solo, which has the largest user community and the best long-term reliability of any podcast interface under $150. If you want sound pads and Bluetooth at the lowest price, the MAONO AME2 is the strongest sub-$100 option.
No matter which audio mixer you choose from this list, you will be getting a product that has been tested by thousands of podcasters and consistently delivers broadcast-quality audio. Pick the one that matches your format, budget, and workflow, and start producing your best episodes yet.