Karaoke Forums

Any suggestion/recommendation for mixer in the $200 range with effects and USB/Firewire tracks recording interface?

I have read that the following mixers are the most cited among the users. What's your opinion and/or recommendations on these models or else?

- Alesis MultiMix 8-channel Audio Mixer w/ USB ($150)
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# No built-in compression
# Compact, affordable 8-channel analog mixer with USB
# 4 high-gain mic/line inputs with phantom power, 2 stereo balanced 1/4-inch line inputs
# 100 28-bit onboard preset effects including reverbs, delays, chorus, flanging and pitch
# 3-band EQ per channel
# Separate 1/4-inch balanced main and monitor outs, headphone out
# Integrated USB audio interface, Plug and Play operation under Mac OS X and Windows
# Steinberg Cubase LE included
# Can record 2 channels simultaneously


- Alesis MultiMix 8-channel Audio Mixer w/ Firewire ($200)
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# Same as USB version but can record 8 channels simultaneously


Yamaha MW10C 10-channel mixer w/ USB ($200):
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- Built-in compression (2 mics)
- No FX effects
- USB 1.1


Mackie ProFX8 8-channel mixer w/ USB ($230):
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# No built-in compression
# Professional 8-channel Compact Mixer with onboard effects and USB I/O
# 4 low-noise, high-headroom Mackie mic preamps with easy LED metering
# 32-bit RMFX(TM) processor with 16 "Gig-Ready" reverbs, choruses and delays
# Precision 7-band graphic EQ for tuning Mains or Monitors
# USB I/O for recording shows and music playback via Mac or PC
# 3 full stereo channels plus extra stereo return for keyboards, external effects or stereo playback devices
# 60mm faders for input channels, returns and Main/Monitor masters
# 3-band active EQ (80Hz, 2.5kHz and 12kHz) on all channels
# Hi-Z input for direct connection of guitar, bass and other instruments
# Insert, 100Hz low cut filter, and 48V phantom power on all mic channels
# Stereo RCA tape I/O with input level control
# Headphone output with separate rotary level control
# Balanced XLR and balanced/unbalanced


Also, what'd be your preference b/w built-in effects vs. compression if you can't have both.
Any other suggestions?

I own a Yamaha powered mixer with built in effects. I use only the vocal echo or the Karaoke echo, nothing else sounds good to me. Becaue of this I decided to get a new mixer with onboard effects.

I was going to spend around $400 for a Soundcraft with the Lexicon effects but I just couldn't bring myself to spend that much right now. I asked around about which vocal effects were good and someone mentioned Alesis. I took a chance and got an Alesis Multimix 8 USB and I am VERY pleased. The vocal effects are very good and this is an important feature for me. It has plenty of inputs and the sound is very good.

The build quality is very good and sound adjustments are easy to make. It has the ability to use external vocal effects too.

I got it on ebay for $100 and I'm very satisfied. I would definitely recommend this mixer. I'm using an old amplifier with it right now, but I plan on getting a new amp soon. I am also going to get a crossover. I alrady have an equalizer.

I haven't even tried the USB yet.

Thanks Stogie.
Is the Alesis Multimix 8 USB clean or noisy?
And what kind of or how many vocal effects can be used for karaoke (voice) application?

I've found around a half dozen or more effects I like, but that can be a very personal thing. The effects that I like may be different than what you like. I didn't have a chance to install the software and use the USB with te laptop today. Hopefully I will in the next few days. I'm very pleased with this mixer and the vocal effects. I wouldn't hesitate to buy another one.