Rack Mixers

About Rack Mixers

Rack mixers are a practical choice for installed sound systems and compact live setups. Designed to fit neatly into a standard 19" rack, these units save space while offering the essential features needed to manage audio effectively in live venues, studios, houses of worship, and more. With a rack mount mixer, you can keep your gear organised and streamlined, making it easier to set up, maintain, and transport.

There are both analogue and digital options available, giving you the flexibility to choose a setup that suits your workflow. Analogue models provide straightforward, hands-on control, while digital rack mixers often include advanced routing, built-in effects, and remote mixing capabilities via tablet or laptop. This means you can adjust levels and settings from anywhere in the venue, without being tied to the unit itself.

Brands like Behringer, Allen & Heath, PreSonus, Tascam, and Mackie offer a wide range of reliable mixer rack units. From simple multi-channel solutions to fully digital mixing systems, there’s something to meet different needs—whether it’s a permanent installation or a mobile rig.

Thanks to their compact form and versatile functionality, rack mixers help simplify your setup without compromising on performance. If you’re after a space-saving solution that still delivers clear sound and easy control, a rack mixer is well worth considering.

Rack Mixers FAQs

What size is a 19-inch rack unit?

A 19-inch rack unit refers to the standard width of rack-mounted equipment, which is precisely 19 inches (482.6 mm) across the front panel. This industry standard is used globally for mounting servers, audio gear, and networking hardware. The height is measured in rack units (U), with 1U equal to 1.75 inches (44.45 mm).

What are the three types of audio mixers?

The three types of audio mixers are analog mixers, digital mixers, and powered mixers. Analog mixers use physical circuitry to manage audio signals, digital mixers offer advanced processing and presets, and powered mixers combine mixing and amplification in one unit.

What does 1U, 2U, 3U, 4U mean?

1U, 2U, 3U, 4U refer to the height of rack-mounted equipment, where 1U equals 1.75 inches (44.45 mm). The “U” stands for “rack unit,” a standardised measure used to size servers, audio processors, and other gear. So, 2U is 3.5 inches tall, 3U is 5.25 inches, and so on.