I’m thinking about getting a really compact mixer (I need 3 stereo inputs/six channels). I’m looking at the Teenage Engineering TX-6 and the Rolls MX122. I basically need inputs for two stereo synths, and a stereo drum machine.
Who here is submixing and just sending a stereo out to FOH? I basically want to simplify and control my sound and setup, and leave less for the soundperson to deal with.
For compactness, I also like the Yamaha MG06.
Maybe look at the Radial Key-largo. 3 analog stereo inputs and a usb audio/midi interface if you want to bring a laptop for plugin synths, fx send and receive and xlr outputs to go into the FOH snake.
Radial stuff is built like a tank in my experience.
Also interested in this topic.
I’m considering a bluebox because it is compact, can handle all the inputs I need, do an fx loop, and also record multitrack. Buuut it is pricey.
Bluebox is half TX6 price !
TC Helicon Blender if you don’t mind mini trs. Six stereo channels, battery powered, compact, 169 USD.
That TC Helicon Blender looks truly bonkers! But the specs are good.
Mackie 1202 or 802 are both worth considering. Bigger than the TX-6, but much much less expensive. I would not be happy if a beer was poured into my 1202, I would probably be livid if someone poured a beer into a TX-6.
Yes I’m looking at those Mackies too. Shame they don’t have a usb out. Therefore looking at Behringer Xenyx range.
Edit: Mackie profx has usb
This looks the best so far for my needs. I own several pieces of Radial gear already, and agree with you on being rock solid.
Behringer Flow 8 Enters the Chat 
What is your gear ?
In case if you have 2 Digis, this 1U rack mixer has the exact same width.
What is it?
SAMSON SM10. It lacks EQ, but it has many inputs, pre and post stereo fx send, a mix B routing switch per track…
I don’t need EQ. Thx!
Used the IMG Stageline MMX-30 until I needed more channels. It’s cheap but very solid and does the job if unbalanced output is enough.
My 1202 (first vlz version) has had beer spilled in it on several occasions. And bong water. And was played in the rain. And had a fire extinguisher emptied into it. All while power on. Every time I just turned it off and opened it up and cleaned it out as soon as I got a chance and it’s still going strong. It’s also survived two car crashes. I’ve probably played a couple hundred shows/ parties/ jams with friends with it not to mention countless hours solo in the studio.
I can’t speak to the newer ones but this old thing I got for $50 at a pawn shop 20 years ago would probably survive a nuclear blast.
Bluebox is excellent, but beware the dreaded ground loop.
This of course made me remember this video in which various mixers are abused until they drop:
The Mackie comes out best of the lot.
