Can a Mixer Be Used as an Audio Interface?
Yes, a USB mixer can be used as an audio interface. But a mixer with only 2 USB channels sends just a stereo mix to the computer, so all your mics land on one track. To record each mic to its own track, you need a multitrack USB mixer whose USB channel count matches its inputs.
Check the USB channel count
The spec that matters is the number of USB inputs to the computer. Allen and Heath's ZEDi-8 has a 2 in, 2 out USB interface, while Tascam's Model 12 is a 12 in, 10 out USB interface with 8 mic inputs.
Stereo USB mixer
2 USB in
Good for a live room recording or a podcast mixed on the fly. You can't change levels after recording.
Multitrack USB mixer
1 per channel
Each mic on its own DAW track, so you can fix or rebalance any part later.
For one or two mics at home, a 2 input interface does the same job in less space. Compare options on our best audio interfaces for home recording page, or see what an audio interface is.
Related questions
Can a mixer replace an audio interface?
A USB mixer can replace a 2 input interface if you only record one stereo mix. For separate tracks you can edit later, you need a multitrack USB mixer or a regular interface.
Are mixers audio interfaces?
Only mixers with a USB or other computer connection. A purely analog mixer has no converter, so it needs an interface between it and the computer.
Can I plug an analog mixer into an audio interface?
Yes. Run the mixer's main or tape outputs into the interface's line inputs with Inst turned off. You'll record the mixer's stereo mix.
More answers: Home recording FAQ