Choose the Best Free Mixer Software

When looking for the best free mixer software, you should consider what type of mixing you want to do and the features you need. Mixer software is typically designed for use in mixing audio signals together, though video mixer programs can also be found that allow you to mix video signals as well. You should look for a program that provides you with the kind of mixing features you want, such as saving preset values for later use, real time editing and mixing options, and different audio and video file types that can be used. Any free mixer software you choose should be downloaded from a reputable website, to avoid malicious software.

Free mixer software is a computer program that can be used to mix different audio and video files together. Many of these programs are developed for use by disc jockeys (DJs) who often mix audio together to create new recordings or during live performances. A DJ can use free mixer software to take two audio files and combine them in a number of different ways to create a new and original audio creation. There are also some programs that can be used to mix two or more video sources to create a mix of them, and this is often used for video remixes.


You should look for free mixer software that provides you with the features and functionality you need. Most programs include details regarding the features they provide, and you should look for the ability to create favorite settings you can use at a later time, the number of sources you can work with simultaneously, how the user interface (UI) is set up, and what hardware the program can be used with. You should also consider what file types can be used with any free mixer software you consider to ensure it functions with the files you wish to use.

Since free mixer software is typically developed to function with a particular operating system (OS), you should also look for a program that works with the OS you use. You should make sure you only download and use a program that is reputable and download it from a site that is trustworthy. Some freeware programs can be used to trick users into downloading malicious software. You can better avoid this risk by ensuring any program you do utilize has been verified free of malware by a reputable website and practicing other safe Internet practices, such as by using antivirus software and a firewall.

Choose the Best Mixing Software

To choose the best mixing software, you should consider what features you want from a program and the value of such a program for you. You should look at the types of audio or video files that any program you are interested in can use, and ensure the software can work with your other programs and hardware. If possible, you might also look for software that offers a free trial so you can see the kinds of features and user interface (UI) included. You might even be able to find a free mixing software program that meets your needs.

Mixing software typically refers to a program that can be used to mix audio or video files together, usually to create output files that combine both original sources. This can be done using different sound files to create a remix, for example, though some programs can also be used to mix audio in real time. Such programs are often used by disc jockeys (DJs) who play recorded music and often mix audio for entertainment at events and in clubs.


As you consider different mixing software, you should look for a program with the features and tools you need. You should, for example, look at the files a program can open or save to, so you ensure the program can work with the files you have. Other features you might look for from mixing software include how the software UI displays the audio files you are working with, what types of editing features are included in the software, and if you can save presets to make live mixing faster and easier.

You should also look at the types of software and hardware that can work with any mixing software you might choose. Most software is developed to work with a particular operating system (OS), so you should ensure that any program you choose is compatible with the OS you use. If you have special input devices, such as a digital turntable, you should look for mixing software that can utilize that equipment.

It can also be beneficial to consider different programs and compare prices between them. You might be able to find freeware that provides you with the mixing features you need. If you are a professional DJ, however, it is likely the mixing software that includes all of the options you want would require a license purchase. The developers of many of these programs offer a free trial, however, so you can ensure any program you choose works best for your needs.

Different Types of Digital Mixers

Digital mixers are electronic devices that mix and manipulate radio frequencies (RF) and audio waveforms. One of the most notable of the types of digital mixers is the soundboard used in recording studios for recording music, voices, and other kinds of sounds. Analog and powered soundboards were once popular for live recording, but digital mixers have risen in popularity because they can exist as standalone devices or as part of computer software. The recorded sounds can also be saved in computers and manipulated, or mixed, at a later time. There are many different kinds of digital mixers that can be used for different purposes.

Most often used for recording live music or sounds, the digital audio mixer is made up of electronic components to record audio, play back the audio, and mix the audio. This digital mixer type is made up of multiple link groups for channels of audio waveforms. A data setter within the digital mixer operates and sets values for data elements in each channel to synchronize with their corresponding channels. These are used for the recording functions, which can then be played back at a later time as a result of saving the recorded audio. There is also a computerized interface on the device that allows a user to see certain information about the audio, such as volume, pitch or frequency.


Another of the types of digital mixers is used in a down converter, which is a device designed for digital sampling of subharmonics. The device is used in a demodulator for analog IF signals and includes components such as a converter to turn analog signals into digital streams of data. This converter samples the frequencies at a particular sample rate based on the frequency of the signals that it is converting. The digital mixer within the device converts the data samples into baseband. These data are then represented in terms of sequential data words or phrases.

Personal computers may also use digital mixers in the form of software installed or downloaded from the Internet. A very popular type of mixer is software that manipulates the pitch of a sound into the desired pitch of the user. The software can approach this problem by several methods. One method involves automatic pitch adjustment, where it detects a sound’s or voice’s pitch and adjusts it to the desired pitch. When the user wants to adjust the pitch himself, he may view a graphic interface that represents the sounds on the computer screen in the form of wave frequencies or other graphics.

Digital Audio Mixer

A digital audio mixer is an electronic device used to combine multiple audio signals from individual sources. This type of audio mixer encapsulates three phases of functionality. The first is mixing, which uses a basic algorithm to process the information with an assigned summing amplifier. The second would be routing, which allows the channeling of source audio to internal buses or external effects processing. Finally, a digital audio mixer will handle some processing through internal equalization and compression modules.

Most often, a mixer of this type accepts both digital and analog sources, converting analog signals into digital data immediately through its processors. A digital audio mixer often has effects and processors that can affect the source audio digitally before it converts the data back to analog on output. A sound card, which can be easily installed in most workstations, acts as an audio interface, typically converting analog audio signals into digital form, while helping with processing audio. Generally, a software application will control the functionality of both the mixer and the sound card, providing the user with a graphic interface for audio recording, editing, mixing, and playback functionality.


With a digital audio mixer, effects may be added to specific channels, and individual instruments may be relocated to new positions in the stereo spectrum. Channels on this mixer may also re-route audio interface input channels to a dedicated equalizer where the bass, treble, and mid range can be adjusted seamlessly. Depending on the mixer's capabilities and if it contains enough channels, a user can also route the outputs of an audio interface to another mixer or additional processing to touch up the sound within the analog realm. This allows the user to separate vocals, drums, and bass, and have complete control over the mix.

Unlike analog mixers, which usually have limited logic and no memory capabilities, a digital audio mixer can retain information assigned by its user. A sound engineer may set level assignments for multiple microphones, monitors, and instruments during one night of performance. Through the software application controller, this configuration can be saved, named, and stored in the mixer's memory. The following evening, an engineer unfamiliar with the last performance can easily launch the application, recalling the saved configuration.

A digital audio mixer can a significant and valuable tool for sound engineers. It can be used in a studio for recording music, designing sound for television and film, or mixing audio signals for live performance.

Choose the Best Audio Mixer

When choosing an audio mixer, you should look for a mixer that has sufficient audio input and output connections for your needs. This can include standard audio connections that can be used with various musical instruments and microphones, as well as connections to recording equipment. If you want to use your mixer with a computer and software, then you should consider an audio mixer that includes one or more universal serial bus (USB) ports to easily connect to a computer. You might also consider mixer hardware that can work with any mixer software you want to use, or a package that includes both.

An audio mixer is a device that can be used to adjust and mix audio input during the recording of audio, which can include music, sound effects, and spoken words captured by a microphone. This term is often used interchangeably to refer to hardware that is used in sound recording and mixing, as well as software that can be used in much the same way. You should consider both hardware and software for audio mixing, and choose the method that you can most easily use. An audio mixer program usually includes an interface that acts as a virtual mixer, allowing you to adjust audio quality and effects from within the program, which can be used directly or adjusted through a connected mixing board.


One of the first things you should consider and look for in an audio mixer is the number of input connections you need. If you want a mixer to use for recording voice work, for singing or voice over for film or television, then you may only need a few input connections. On the other hand, if you want to record a full rock band or multiple artists at once, then you need sufficient connections for all of the instruments and microphones. As you add inputs, however, the cost of an audio mixer often increases as well, so you should choose a mixer that meets your needs without greatly surpassing them.

You should also consider any effects that can be applied to audio through the audio mixer you choose, as this can help you make certain tasks easier. Depending on the type of audio recording you are doing, you should also ensure that the mixer can handle as many audio channels as you wish to utilize. If you want to use an audio mixer board with a computer, then you might choose one that includes one or more USB ports and connections. This can make it easier for you to mix audio utilizing both a physical mixer and a software program to facilitate the process.

DJ Mixer

A DJ mixer is a piece of hardware used by disc jockeys (DJs) to combine audio sources and sound effects during live performances. Beyond allowing the DJ to create his or her own audio through other sources, a DJ mixer makes it easier for a DJ to continuously play music without any downtime, so people keep dancing without interruption or a single moment of silence. In many ways, a DJ mixer unit is similar to other audio mixers, but there are differences in the DJ’s equipment that make a DJ mixer special. Most mixers can record audio, allowing the DJ to make an original mix that can be played on cue.

The DJ mixer is almost like any other audio mixer. It takes one or more audio sources and applies changes by altering the basic components of the audio’s sound. One of the defining features of a mixer is the crossfader, which acts as two faders colliding with each other. This allows the DJ to quickly transition from one song to the next, fading out one audio source and simultaneously fading in another source. Another defining feature is the ability to feed a non-playing audio source into headphones.


Aside from crossfading, DJ mixers have many other features that allow a DJ to create his or her own mix. There are often a variety of knobs and controls that permit the DJ to change the bass, treble and beat of the audio, along with other basic audio components. Sound effects are normally an afterthought with these units, so the DJ focuses more on mixing pre-existing music rather than adding sound effects, but most units have a few effects that can be used. These effects are typically generic and may be included on many different mixer models.

One obvious benefit from using a DJ mixer is that the DJ is able to keep music playing continuously without any downtime. This is done via the crossfader, because it generally allows the audio to decrease in volume for less than a second before picking back up. By using this technique, the DJ can keep people dancing and entertained all night, without there being any party-stopping silence between songs.

Another benefit of using a DJ mixer model is that the DJ can create his or her own DJ mixes. While some DJs prefer impromptu performances, others prefer to plan the event and have a list of songs and effects ready. DJ mixers can typically record a mix, so the DJ can have the lineup ready before the event occurs, and he or she can fine-tune the sound for his or her preference.

Audio Mixer

An audio mixer is an electronic device that channels incoming audio signals while maintaining control over such effects as volume level, tonality, placement, and other dynamics for music production. In professional sound mixing an audio mixer is sometimes called a soundboard (sound board), mixing console, or mixer.

Traditional audio mixers are physical pieces of equipment with inputs for instruments; digital devices such as drum machines, auxiliary line-ins, and microphones. Mixing technology is also available via software, but requires an advanced sound card that features instrument inputs. Alternately, one can transfer pre-recorded tracks to a computer for use with audio software.

Modern digital audio mixers are made for both professional and nonprofessional use, covering a wide range of quality and price. Studios commonly use a dedicated audio mixer, while in the nonprofessional market, an audio mixer is often coupled with a digital recorder. The least expensive, nonprofessional models feature 4-track digital recording with built-in mixer. Additional channels add to price, all else being equal, with high-end models featuring 24 channels.

Each channel on a mixer or soundboard is dedicated to a separate track, such as one channel for drums, one for lead guitar, rhythm, bass, keyboards, and so on. By keeping each instrument on its own track, channels not only stay clean of artifacts, but the sound engineer has maximum control over every element and aspect of the project.


Even after a track is recorded, volume, echo, reverb, equalization, and various other effects can be applied as needed to tweak the sound. When tracks are played through the audio mixer simultaneously, the engineer can adjust or manipulate individual instruments or vocals to get the mix just right, as each channel has its own “lane” of controls. If drums overpower the mix at a point, they can be leveled down. If the lead guitar is buried, it can be brought out front. If vocals are muddy, they can be brightened.

A good audio mixer also features panoramic potentiometers otherwise known as “pan pots.” This control places an audio track to the left, center, or right within the mix to create a full stereo image. Traditionally, vocals are centered, with lead and rhythm guitars taking up opposite ends of the mix, and drums filling the background. This builds an acoustical environment, as if the band is surrounding the listener. Keyboards, percussion and other instruments are also carefully placed within the image. In some instances a drum roll or lead riff might “slide” or “roll” (pan) from one stereo channel to the other for effect, creating a sensation of movement.

In music production, the drum track is typically produced first, providing the foundation on which to build the other tracks. Once a second track is finished, it can be “bounced” to the drum track to free up another channel, and so on. Though there are limits to how many tracks can be bounced, even an inexpensive 4-track recorder with a built in audio mixer is generally capable of producing 8 tracks or more. In all cases, the end result is mixed down to a 2-track stereo recording known as the “master,” from which a compact disk can be made for duplication.

If you play at home and would like to record and produce your original music, a mobile, palm-sized 4-channel audio mixer can be had for about $200 US Dollars (USD). Some models come complete with built-in digital bass and drum kits for accompaniment, and an array of guitar effects. These affordable audio recorder/mixers won’t have the capability or control of larger, more professional mixers, but they do have astounding feature sets for their class. Some models use flash cards for unlimited memory, and many models offer universal serial bus (USB) or Firewire ports so the final mix can be more easily transferred to a computer for burning to compact disk.

If you’d like something with greater editing features, 8-16 track digital models might be a better choice. An audio mixer, recorder and burner in one, you can lay down your tracks, mix them, and burn the master to CD with a single machine that’s half the size of a laptop and a fraction of its weight. Eight-to-sixteen track mixers that include burners start at about $600 USD and are frequently found on sale. For a couple hundred dollars less you can skip the burner and transfer the music to your computer to burn it.

A 24-track audio mixer is generally more soundboard than the average person needs, though standard in studio production. As expected, these models can cost several thousand dollars, though a low-end model can be had for far less. Before purchasing an audio mixer it is wise to check for professional reviews along with consumer reviews.