Buying Guide
The Best Behringer Streaming Mixers for a Cleaner, More Useful Desk
We looked at 8 behringer streaming mixers side by side, with the trade-offs that separate them and who each one suits.
By Jamie Cole, Lead Product Researcher
11 min read8 products evaluated
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Best Behringer Streaming Mixers aren't as interchangeable as they seem. That means a title alone won't tell you enough.
This roundup weighs real channel count and preamp gain, given that marketing copy tends to obscure this.
Quick Picks
Our 8 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.
Best Overall
Behringer XENYX 802S Premium Analog 8-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface
Buyers who want the strongest all-around pick in this comparison and would rather not keep shopping around
Our take Check price for Behringer XENYX 802S Premium Analog 8-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface (opens in a new tab)
Also Worth Considering
Behringer Xenyx 1202SFX 12-channel Analog Streaming Mixer
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for Behringer Xenyx 1202SFX 12-channel Analog Streaming Mixer (opens in a new tab)
Solid Alternative
Behringer XENYX X1204USB Premium 12-Input 2/2-Bus Mixer with XENYX Mic Preamps
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for Behringer XENYX X1204USB Premium 12-Input 2/2-Bus Mixer with XENYX Mic Preamps (opens in a new tab)
Another Strong Option
Behringer Xenyx 1002SFX 10-channel Analog Streaming Mixer
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for Behringer Xenyx 1002SFX 10-channel Analog Streaming Mixer (opens in a new tab)
Runner-Up Pick
Behringer XENYX 1204USB Premium 12-Input 2/2-Bus Mixer with XENYX Mic Preamps
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for Behringer XENYX 1204USB Premium 12-Input 2/2-Bus Mixer with XENYX Mic Preamps (opens in a new tab)
Best Value
Behringer XENYX 502S Premium Analog 5-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface
Buyers who want a capable pick without paying for headroom you won't use
Our take Check price for Behringer XENYX 502S Premium Analog 5-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface (opens in a new tab)
Great Alternative
Behringer FLOW 8 8-Input Digital Mixer with Bluetooth Audio and App Control
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for Behringer FLOW 8 8-Input Digital Mixer with Bluetooth Audio and App Control (opens in a new tab)
Best Premium Pick
Behringer X AIR XR18 18-Channel
Buyers who are willing to spend the most in this comparison for the fuller feature set that comes with it
Our take Check price for Behringer X AIR XR18 18-Channel (opens in a new tab)
Our Picks
Best Overall1 of 8
Behringer XENYX 802S Premium Analog 8-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Behringer XENYX 802S Premium Analog 8-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface is the top pick in this comparison.
Best for
- Buyers who want the strongest all-around pick in this comparison and would rather not keep shopping around
Why we like it
Analog mixing and equalization for pure sound. Direct mixing of PC/gaming sounds into the streaming output.
Held up against Behringer Xenyx 1202SFX 12-channel Analog Streaming Mixer, both cover the basics equally well, what actually separates them is ultra-low noise analog mixer for streaming, podcasting and recording.
Go with this pick if you want the strongest all-around pick in this comparison and would rather not keep shopping around. Onboard DSP effects help but can't substitute for real gain staging skill, so learn the basics rather than relying on presets alone.
Key dimensions & specs
- Analog mixing and equalization for pure sound
- Direct mixing of PC/gaming sounds
- Ultra-low noise analog mixer for streaming, podcasting
Pros
- Analog mixing and equalization for pure sound
- Direct mixing of PC/gaming sounds
- Ultra-low noise analog mixer for streaming, podcasting
- Stereo USB audio interface to connect
Cons
- Onboard effects can't replace real gain staging skill
- Dual-PC routing setup takes real time to configure
Also Worth Considering2 of 8
Behringer Xenyx 1202SFX 12-channel Analog Streaming Mixer on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Behringer Xenyx 1202SFX 12-channel Analog Streaming Mixer is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
12-channel analog mixer with 4 mic preamps.
Set next to Behringer XENYX 802S Premium Analog 8-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface, the two land close enough on paper that it's worth comparing both listings directly on the spec that matters most for your setup.
Go with this pick if you want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. Routing a dual-PC setup takes real configuration time, so budget for that setup process rather than expecting instant plug-and-play.
Key dimensions & specs
- 12-channel analog mixer with 4 mic preamps
- Streaming capabilities
- 12 x 1/4" line
Pros
- 12-channel analog mixer with 4 mic preamps
- Streaming capabilities
- 12 x 1/4" line
- USB connectivity
Cons
- Dual-PC routing setup takes real time to configure
- Onboard effects can't replace real gain staging skill
Solid Alternative3 of 8
Behringer XENYX X1204USB Premium 12-Input 2/2-Bus Mixer with XENYX Mic Preamps on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Behringer XENYX X1204USB Premium 12-Input 2/2-Bus Mixer with XENYX Mic Preamps is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
Premium ultra-low noise, high headroom analog mixer. 4 state-of-the-art xenyx, phantom-powered mic preamps comparable to stand-alone boutique preamps.
Side by side with Behringer XENYX 802S Premium Analog 8-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface, the real difference worth noting is 4 studio-grade compressors with super-easy "one-knob" functionality and control LED for professional vocal and instrumental sound.
This one is the right call if you want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. Onboard DSP effects help but can't substitute for real gain staging skill, so learn the basics rather than relying on presets alone.
Key dimensions & specs
- Premium ultra-low noise, high headroom analog mixer
- 4 state-of-the-art xenyx, phantom-powered mic preamps comparable
- 4 studio-grade compressors with super-easy "one-knob" functionality
Pros
- Premium ultra-low noise, high headroom analog mixer
- 4 state-of-the-art xenyx, phantom-powered mic preamps comparable
- 4 studio-grade compressors with super-easy "one-knob" functionality
- Neo-classic "british" 3-band eqs for warm
Cons
- Onboard effects can't replace real gain staging skill
- Dual-PC routing setup takes real time to configure
Another Strong Option4 of 8
Behringer Xenyx 1002SFX 10-channel Analog Streaming Mixer on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Behringer Xenyx 1002SFX 10-channel Analog Streaming Mixer is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
10-channel analog mixer with 2 mic preamps.
Behringer XENYX 802S Premium Analog 8-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface is a reasonable point of comparison here, close enough that the actual listing details are worth checking before deciding between them.
Go with this pick if you want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. Routing a dual-PC setup takes real configuration time, so budget for that setup process rather than expecting instant plug-and-play.
Key dimensions & specs
- 10-channel analog mixer with 2 mic preamps
- Streaming capabilities
- 10 x 1/4" line
Pros
- 10-channel analog mixer with 2 mic preamps
- Streaming capabilities
- 10 x 1/4" line
- USB connectivity
Cons
- Dual-PC routing setup takes real time to configure
- Onboard effects can't replace real gain staging skill
Runner-Up Pick5 of 8
Behringer XENYX 1204USB Premium 12-Input 2/2-Bus Mixer with XENYX Mic Preamps on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Behringer XENYX 1204USB Premium 12-Input 2/2-Bus Mixer with XENYX Mic Preamps is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
Premium ultra-low noise, high headroom analog mixer. Neo-classic "british" 3-band eqs for warm and musical sound.
Behringer XENYX 802S Premium Analog 8-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface is a reasonable point of comparison here, close enough that the actual listing details are worth checking before deciding between them.
Go with this pick if you want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. Onboard DSP effects help but can't substitute for real gain staging skill, so learn the basics rather than relying on presets alone.
Key dimensions & specs
- Premium ultra-low noise, high headroom analog mixer
- Neo-classic "british" 3-band eqs for warm
Pros
- Premium ultra-low noise, high headroom analog mixer
- Neo-classic "british" 3-band eqs for warm
- Straightforward setup based on the listed specs
Cons
- Onboard effects can't replace real gain staging skill
- Dual-PC routing setup takes real time to configure
Best Value6 of 8
Behringer XENYX 502S Premium Analog 5-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Behringer XENYX 502S Premium Analog 5-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface is the most affordable pick here that still clears the capability floor for this category.
Best for
- Buyers who want a capable pick without paying for headroom you won't use
Why we like it
Ultra-low noise analog mixer for streaming, podcasting and recording. Award winning xenyx microphone preamp for warm and musical sound.
Behringer XENYX 802S Premium Analog 8-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface lands in a similar spot overall, but the deciding factor between the two is stereo USB audio interface to connect your computer or mobile device.
Go with this pick if you want a capable pick without paying for headroom you won't use. Routing a dual-PC setup takes real configuration time, so budget for that setup process rather than expecting instant plug-and-play.
Key dimensions & specs
- Ultra-low noise analog mixer for streaming, podcasting
- Award winning xenyx microphone preamp for warm
- Stereo USB audio interface to connect
Pros
- Ultra-low noise analog mixer for streaming, podcasting
- Award winning xenyx microphone preamp for warm
- Stereo USB audio interface to connect
- Direct mixing of PC/gaming sounds
Cons
- Dual-PC routing setup takes real time to configure
- Onboard effects can't replace real gain staging skill
Great Alternative7 of 8
Behringer FLOW 8 8-Input Digital Mixer with Bluetooth Audio and App Control on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Behringer FLOW 8 8-Input Digital Mixer with Bluetooth Audio and App Control is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
Ultra-low noise, high headroom digital mixer with wireless remote control. Flow app for bluetooth remote control from ios/android mobile phones or tablets.
60 mm channel faders and master rotary control with LED collar, a detail worth checking closely before choosing between this and Behringer XENYX 802S Premium Analog 8-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface.
Choose this if you want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. Onboard DSP effects help but can't substitute for real gain staging skill, so learn the basics rather than relying on presets alone.
Key dimensions & specs
- Ultra-low noise, high headroom digital mixer
- Flow app for bluetooth remote control
- 60 mm channel faders and master rotary
Pros
- Ultra-low noise, high headroom digital mixer
- Flow app for bluetooth remote control
- 60 mm channel faders and master rotary
- Ez-gain function analyzes the signals
Cons
- Onboard effects can't replace real gain staging skill
- Dual-PC routing setup takes real time to configure
Best Premium Pick8 of 8
Behringer X AIR XR18 18-Channel on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Behringer X AIR XR18 18-Channel is the priciest pick in this lineup.
Best for
- Buyers who are willing to spend the most in this comparison for the fuller feature set that comes with it
Why we like it
Ipad/android tablet controlled 18-input digital mixer for studio and live application. 16 award-winning midas-designed, fully programmable mic preamps for audiophile sound quality.
Behringer XENYX 802S Premium Analog 8-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface covers similar ground, though built-in tri-mode wi-fi router for direct operation-no need for external routers is what tips the choice one way or the other.
This fits best if you are willing to spend the most in this comparison for the fuller feature set that comes with it. Routing a dual-PC setup takes real configuration time, so budget for that setup process rather than expecting instant plug-and-play.
Key dimensions & specs
- Ipad/android tablet controlled 18-input digital mixer
- 16 award-winning midas-designed, fully programmable mic preamps
- Built-in tri-mode wi-fi router for direct operation-no
Pros
- Ipad/android tablet controlled 18-input digital mixer
- 16 award-winning midas-designed, fully programmable mic preamps
- Built-in tri-mode wi-fi router for direct operation-no
- 18 x 18 channel, bidirectional USB interface
Cons
- Dual-PC routing setup takes real time to configure
- Onboard effects can't replace real gain staging skill
How We Chose These Behringer Streaming Mixers
Each pick was assessed across 5 criteria weighted for real-world use.
- XLR Channel Count and Phantom Power
- Channel count on a streaming mixer should match your actual microphone setup, not a theoretical maximum, and any condenser microphone specifically requires 48V phantom power on its channel to function at all.
- Built-In DSP Effects vs Manual Mixing
- A dedicated streaming mixer functions as both a physical mixer and a multi-channel USB audio interface, often including onboard DSP effects like voice changers, duckers, and noise gates that process audio before it even reaches your streaming software.
- Loopback Function for Game and Call Audio
- Streaming specifically, as opposed to just recording, usually requires a loopback function that captures your computer's own audio output and mixes it cleanly with your microphone for your audience, without your voice call partners hearing an echo of themselves.
- Most modern streaming mixers handle everything through virtual audio channels on a single PC, but some higher-end models add a second USB connection specifically for a dual-PC setup, common among gamers who run the game on one machine and streaming software on another.
- Preamp Gain and Noise Floor
- How much clean gain a mixer's preamps provide, often quoted in DB, directly determines whether a quieter dynamic microphone sounds clear or noisy once boosted to a usable streaming volume.
What to Look for in a Behringer Streaming Mixer
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
XLR Channel Count and Phantom Power
Channel count on a streaming mixer should match your actual microphone setup, not a theoretical maximum, and any condenser microphone specifically requires 48V phantom power on its channel to function at all. Confirm both the channel count and which channels carry phantom power before assuming any mixer works with your specific microphone.
Built-In DSP Effects vs Manual Mixing
A dedicated streaming mixer functions as both a physical mixer and a multi-channel USB audio interface, often including onboard DSP effects like voice changers, duckers, and noise gates that process audio before it even reaches your streaming software. These effects can meaningfully improve production value, but they're a convenience layer on top of, not a replacement for, correct gain staging and mic technique.
Loopback Function for Game and Call Audio
Streaming specifically, as opposed to just recording, usually requires a loopback function that captures your computer's own audio output and mixes it cleanly with your microphone for your audience, without your voice call partners hearing an echo of themselves. This is a distinct feature from basic USB audio interfacing, so check for it explicitly if game or call audio needs to be part of your stream.
Most modern streaming mixers handle everything through virtual audio channels on a single PC, but some higher-end models add a second USB connection specifically for a dual-PC setup, common among gamers who run the game on one machine and streaming software on another. Check specifically for dual USB-C or dual USB-B ports if a two-computer setup is part of your plan, since single-PC routing won't cover that use case.
Preamp Gain and Noise Floor
How much clean gain a mixer's preamps provide, often quoted in DB, directly determines whether a quieter dynamic microphone sounds clear or noisy once boosted to a usable streaming volume. Check this figure against your specific microphone rather than assuming all mixers handle low-output mics equally well.
How to Choose a Behringer Streaming Mixer
| Behringer XENYX 502S Premium Analog 5-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface | |
| 2-3 people or a co-host | Behringer XENYX 802S Premium Analog 8-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface |
| Behringer X AIR XR18 18-Channel |
| Lowest price in this lineup | Behringer XENYX 502S Premium Analog 5-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface |
|---|---|
| Behringer Xenyx 1202SFX 12-channel Analog Streaming Mixer | |
| Behringer X AIR XR18 18-Channel |
Onboard Effects vs Manual Mixing
- Behringer X AIR XR18 18-Channel)
- Adds voice processing, ducking, and noise gates directly on the hardware, useful but works best on top of correct gain staging, not instead of it.
- Behringer XENYX 502S Premium Analog 5-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface)
- Fewer built-in effects, more straightforward operation, a practical choice while you're still learning gain staging basics.
Onboard effects are a real convenience but don't replace learning correct mic gain levels first.
By Single-PC vs Dual-PC Routing
| Single-PC setup with virtual channels | Behringer XENYX 802S Premium Analog 8-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface |
|---|---|
| Check specifically for dual USB output support |
For Game and Call Audio Specifically
- A dedicated loopback or 'sample' channel so game and call audio mix cleanly with your mic without an echo for people on the call.
- Behringer XENYX 802S Premium Analog 8-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface is worth checking against its specific loopback routing before assuming any mixer handles this cleanly.
- You're running multiple microphones and want onboard effects and dual-PC routing, where Behringer X AIR XR18 18-Channel justifies the extra cost.
- You're a solo streamer just starting out, where Behringer XENYX 502S Premium Analog 5-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface already covers the job at the lowest price here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a streaming mixer if I already have a USB microphone?
A USB microphone already has its own basic interface built in; a streaming mixer adds value when you want physical hardware control, multiple XLR microphones, onboard effects, or loopback routing for game and call audio.
What's the difference between a streaming mixer and a podcast mixer?
They overlap significantly, but streaming mixers typically emphasize loopback routing for game and call audio, onboard DSP effects like voice changers, and sometimes dual-PC support, features less central to a mixer built primarily for spoken-word podcast recording.
How many XLR channels do I need for streaming?
Count the number of physical microphones you'll actually use at once, then buy a mixer with that many channels plus a small margin; most solo streamers need just one or two channels despite mixers advertising far more.
Do I need a mixer for a dual-PC streaming setup?
You need a mixer specifically built for dual-PC routing, with two separate USB connections, since most streaming mixers are designed for a single-computer setup using virtual audio channels instead.
What does phantom power mean and do I need it?
Phantom power, usually 48V, is required to run a condenser microphone; a dynamic microphone doesn't need it, so check your specific microphone type before assuming any mixer channel will power it correctly.
Can onboard mixer effects replace audio editing software?
Onboard DSP effects like noise gates and voice processing improve your live stream audio in real time, but they don't replace the finer control of post-production editing software for recorded content that needs more precise adjustment.
Bottom Line
Best overall: Behringer XENYX 802S Premium Analog 8-Input Mixer with USB Streaming Interface — best overall pick in this roundup. See the full verdicts above for every pick, with pros, cons and who each one suits.
Browse all behringer streaming mixers on Amazon — Prime-eligible options with current pricing.