For rehearsal spaces and smaller gigs, a PA with a powered mixer is a solid choice. What makes a mixer with a built-in power amp so convenient—and what should you watch for? Here’s a quick, practical guide.
In many real-world situations, a full PA rig with a separate mixing console and a dedicated power amp is simply more than you need—think band rehearsals or small events. A powered mixer is the clean solution: a portable mixer with multiple inputs and a built-in power amplifier. Just connect the right passive PA speakers and you’re ready to roll.
Depending on the model, you may also get onboard effects like EQ plus reverb, chorus, and more—super helpful for live sound.
Key features & benefits of powered mixers:
Popular brands:
Note: Powered mixers are also called mixers with a built-in power amp—naming isn’t always consistent.
Powered mixers typically come in two main form factors:
For anyone who likes the classic mixer feel. These units look similar to standard mixers, but are often a bit taller/heavier because the power amp is built in. You’ll often see a cooling fan, since power amps generate heat.
The box format brings real practical advantages: stable placement, front-panel knobs within easy reach, and a carry handle for fast load-ins. The rectangular shape also fits easily in a car trunk—ideal if you’re often on the move.
A powered mixer combines a mixer and a power amp—so you’ll want to consider both sides:
Tip: No PA gear yet? Check out powered-mixer bundles—often with passive speakers and sometimes cables/stands. It saves time and helps you stay on budget.
A powered mixer combines a mixing console and a built-in power amplifier in one unit. It’s designed for quick setups and usually drives passive PA speakers directly.
Great for rehearsals, small gigs, schools/community events, and anyone who wants a compact PA without bringing a separate power amp.
Powered mixers are fast and convenient (fewer boxes, fewer cables). Separate components are often more flexible if you plan to upgrade, expand, or swap parts later.
The built-in amp is meant for passive speakers. But you can often feed active speakers from line outputs (like Main/Monitor Out), if your model provides them.
It depends on the room, music style, and speakers. The important piece is enough headroom so you don’t clip the amp—having some reserve is usually the safer move.
Powered mixers are rated for a certain minimum impedance (for example, 4 Ω per channel). Going below that can overload the amp. Always follow the manufacturer’s impedance specs.
Count every source (vocals, instruments, playback) and add some spare channels. For many bands, 8–12 channels is a solid start; larger setups often prefer 12–16+.
If you use condenser microphones, 48V phantom power is important. With dynamic mics only, it’s usually not required.
Yes—especially live. A little reverb on vocals helps a lot. Effects and quality vary by model, so check the specs if effects are a priority.
Some models offer USB for playback and/or recording. Check whether it’s stereo-only or supports real recording—and how many channels it can handle.