Mixers with Effects

A mixer with effects has a built-in effects processor, so you can add reverb or delay to vocals right on the desk, with no extra box and no extra cables. Here you will find analogue mixers with effects, powered mixers with a built-in amplifier and rack-mount models – 163 desks in total from Yamaha, Behringer, DNA, Mackie, Allen & Heath, Soundcraft and PROEL. Most of them are small desks with up to 10 channels, while bands can choose from 61 models with up to 20 channels and 9 larger ones with up to 32 channels. Of these, 135 have USB, which depending on the model is used for recording to a computer or for playing back music.

What are effects on a mixer for?

Built-in effects are most useful for singers, presenters and small bands. Reverb gives the voice a sense of space, delay adds an echo and chorus thickens the sound. On a mixer with effects, each channel has an FX knob that sends as much signal to the effect as you like, and you fine-tune the overall amount of effect with a single control. The processor is always inside the desk, so you never need to bring a separate multi-effects unit to rehearsals or smaller gigs.

How many channels do you need?

For a singer with a guitar, a podcast or a small PA, a mixer with up to 10 channels is enough, for example the Behringer Xenyx 1002SFX, Yamaha MG10XU or Allen & Heath ZED-10FX. A band with several microphones and instruments will reach for a desk with up to 20 channels, such as the Behringer Xenyx 1202SFX, Yamaha MG16XU or Soundcraft EFX 8.

Want a mixer and an amplifier in one unit? Take a look at powered mixing desks such as the Yamaha EMX7 or Behringer Europower PMP500 – all you need to add is a pair of passive speakers.

Analogue mixer with effects or digital?

An analogue mixer with effects has a dedicated knob for every function and is ready to play as soon as you switch it on. It is the usual choice for beginners and for bands who want to play without menus or lengthy setting up. Digital desks always have effects, often together with scene memories and tablet control – you will find them in the digital mixing desks category. If recording to a computer is your main goal, also have a look at mixers with USB.