Mackie Mix5 5-Channel Compact Mixer

The Mix5 is Mackie's most pared-down mixer, and it does exactly what you'd hope: gives you five channels of clean, quiet audio in a package that practically fits in your laptop bag. One mic preamp and a couple of stereo channels handle the basics -- plug in a mic for practice, run a simple instrument setup, or use it as a utility mixer at your desk.

There's no effects, no USB, and no extras to get in the way. Just straightforward gain, pan, and level controls with Mackie build quality behind it all. For situations where you need a quick, reliable way to get audio mixed and out the door, the Mix5 is the no-brainer choice.