How to Hook Up a Mixer to a Computer
Updated Nov 13, 2026 · By 
Jonah Mercer · Editorial policy
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Connect the mixer to the computer with a USB cable when the mixer has a built-in USB audio interface, then set the mixer as the audio input and output in the computer's sound settings. The Behringer XENYX X2442USB below has a USB audio interface with a USB Type B output, so it connects that way.
Check for a USB audio interface
Look at the back of the mixer for a USB port marked USB or Audio Interface. The Behringer XENYX X2442USB has a USB audio interface with a USB Type B output, so it sends audio to the computer over USB.
Connect the mixer to the computer with USB
Plug a USB cable into the USB output on the mixer and into a USB port on the computer. Leave the mixer powered off while you plug the cable in, then power it on. The computer lists the mixer as an audio device after the cable is connected and the mixer has power.
Set the mixer as the computer audio device
Open the sound settings on the computer and pick the mixer as the input device and the output device. The mixer then receives audio from the computer and sends the mix back to it over the same USB cable. If the mixer does not appear in the list, check the cable connection and check that the mixer is powered on.
Route the mix to the main outputs
Bring the channel faders up and send the mix to the main outputs so the computer records the full mix. Keep the input gain low enough that the channel meters stay out of the red, and raise the main fader to set the level the computer records. The Behringer XENYX X2442USB has 24 channels with mic preamps and compressors, so each source gets its own channel.
Check levels before you record
Play a source through the mixer and watch the level in the computer's recording software. If the level clips, turn the channel gain down and raise the main fader instead. Record a short passage, play it back, and listen for distortion before you record the full take.
What you need
Behringer XENYX X2442USB Premium 24-Input 4/2-Bus Mixer
A 24-input mixer with a built-in USB audio interface and a USB Type B output, so it connects to the computer over USB.
- Mixer channels / decks: 24
- Built-in effects / amp models
Custom Shop Body Filler Mixing Board
A reusable plastic body filler mixing board with 4, 5, and 6 inch spreaders for automotive body fillers, putties, glazes, and epoxy resin.
Custom Shop Multi-Layered Disposable Paper Body Filler
A multi-layered disposable paper body filler mixing board with 100 sheets, each sheet 10 inches by 11-1/2 inches, for mixing body fillers and glazes.
KREFINISH Body Filler Mixing Board Disposable Paper
A disposable paper body filler mixing board with 100 paper sheets, a 5 inch plastic spatula scraper, and a board 11 inches by 12 inches.
These come from our ranked list Best Mixing Board, which compares them spec by spec.
Frequently asked questions
Can I connect a mixer without a USB port?
Yes. Connect the mixer main outputs to a separate audio interface, then connect the interface to the computer over USB. Set the interface as the audio input and output in the computer sound settings.
Why does the computer not see the mixer?
Check the USB cable connection and check that the mixer is powered on. Some mixers need a driver from the maker before the computer lists them as an audio device.
Do I need phantom power to connect a mixer?
No. Phantom power is 48V for condenser microphones, and it has nothing to do with the USB connection to the computer. Switch 48V on only for a condenser microphone connected to the mixer.
Can I use the mixer to hear the computer audio?
Yes. Set the mixer as the output device in the computer sound settings, then connect headphones or speakers to the mixer outputs and raise the main fader.
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