9. Mixers with USB/Firewire Interfaces

Not everyone can or wants to invest in a digital mixer, be it due to the price or personal preferences. So how about combining an analogue mixer with digital interfaces?

Here, practically two advantages of each type of mixer are combined:

• The ease of use for controls of an analogue mixer, , including access to individual parameters
• The ability to connect to a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) through a digital interface

What is not possible however, and this must be emphasized, is the ability to save mixer settings; this can only be done with a digital mixer.

The connection to the computer is made either via a Firewire interface or a USB connection. Depending on the model, two or more channels can be transmitted simultaneously. This eliminates the need to purchase an audio interface that converts the analog signals from the mixer into a computer-friendly format. Some manufacturers even provide compatible sequencing software, such as Cubase LE, with these mixers. So, if you're considering getting both a mixer and a suitable audio interface, such a model should be on your shortlist. In terms of price, mixers with digital interfaces are definitely worth considering.

Where are these mixers most effectively used? In any recording situation! They are particularly advantageous for recording in rehearsal spaces when you don't have time for extensive settings in DAW software; the handling of an analogue mixer is clearly beneficial. For mobile setups, the cabling is a breeze - connect microphones to the mixer, link the mixer to the computer, and you're ready to go. Additionally, your monitoring signal is always latency-free.

YAMAHA MW12C USB Studio Mixer