Yamaha MG10XU 10-Channel Mixer vs Rode RodeCaster Pro II
Buy the Yamaha MG10XU if you need a simple analog-style mixer for live gigs, karaoke or DJ sets and want to spend the least. Buy the Rode RodeCaster Pro II if you record podcasts or stream and want built-in processing, multitrack recording and app control. No prices were provided for either unit, so check current store prices on this page before deciding.
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Yamaha MG10XU 10-Channel Mixer
4.7Choose the Yamaha MG10XU if you want an affordable, easy-to-run mixer with real faders for small live sound, DJ or karaoke setups.
Pros
- Easy to learn and operate, with precise knobs
- Sturdy build and good sound for the price
- Works well for DJs, karaoke and small live gigs
- 24-bit/192kHz USB interface and Cubase AI included
Cons
- No faders, so level control is knob-only
- Only 2-in/2-out USB, no multitrack recording
- Some users report static or robotic headphone sound
- No Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or app control
What separates them
| Yamaha MG10XU 10-Channel Mixer | Rode RodeCaster Pro II | |
|---|---|---|
| Primary use | Live sound, DJ and karaoke mixing | Podcasting, streaming and studio recording |
| Mic preamps | 4 D-PRE preamps with inverted Darlington circuit | 4 Revolution preamps with Aphex processing |
| Channels and faders | 10 inputs (4 mono + 3 stereo), no faders | 9 channels, 6 physical faders plus 3 virtual |
| Recording | 2-in/2-out USB audio at 24-bit/192kHz | Multitrack recording to microSD, USB interface |
| Effects and processing | SPX effects with 24 programs, 1-knob compressors | Aphex processors, EQ, compression, de-esser per channel |
| Control and automation | Knobs only, no pads or app | 8 SMART pads with up to 64 functions, Wi-Fi app control |
| Connectivity | USB, XLR and line inputs, no Bluetooth |
Price history
- Yamaha MG10XU 10-Channel Mixer: lowest $249.00 on Nov 1 at The Music Zoo.
- Rode RodeCaster Pro II: lowest $567.00 on Nov 1 at gear4music.com.
Prices at every store
Yamaha MG10XU 10-Channel Mixer
- AmazonCheck price at Amazon
- B&H Photo-Video-AudioCheck price at B&H Photo-Video-Audio
- CrutchfieldCheck price at Crutchfield
Rode RodeCaster Pro II
- AmazonCheck price at Amazon
- Best BuyCheck price at Best Buy
- gear4music.comCheck price at gear4music.com
Specs compared
| Spec | Yamaha MG10XU 10-Channel Mixer | Rode RodeCaster Pro II |
|---|---|---|
| Number Of Channels | 10 channel | 9 Channels |
| With Onboard Effects | Yes | — |
| Phantom Powered | Yes | — |
| Digital | Yes | — |
| With USB | Yes | — |
| Type | Mixer | — |
| Connector Type | — | USB-C |
| Wireless Technology | — | Bluetooth |
| Included Accessories | — | Podcasting master class courtesy of MZed |
| Power Source | — | USB Bus Power, AC/DC Power Adapter (Included) |
| Form Factor |
Questions and answers
- Which is better for podcasting?
- The RodeCaster Pro II. It records multitrack, has per-channel Aphex processing and SMART pads for jingles and sound effects, which the Yamaha MG10XU does not offer.
- Which is better for live gigs and karaoke?
- The Yamaha MG10XU. It is simpler, lighter and cheaper, and its knob layout is quick to adjust mid-performance.
- Does the Yamaha MG10XU record multitrack?
- No. Its USB audio is 2-in/2-out, so you get a stereo mix. The RodeCaster Pro II records multiple tracks to a microSD card.
- Is the RodeCaster Pro II worth the extra money?
- If you record podcasts or stream regularly, yes. The built-in processing, multitrack recording and app control replace several separate devices. For plain live mixing, the Yamaha covers it for far less.
- Can the RodeCaster Pro II connect to a phone or computer?
- Yes. It connects over USB-C to computers and mobile devices, and also supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
- Which has more mic inputs?
- Both have 4 mic preamps. The Yamaha adds 10 line inputs total, while the RodeCaster Pro II has 9 channels with 6 physical faders.