KMix
KMix: A free Linux utility for master and per-channel audio controls, not multitrack production. Ranked #15 of 28 in Audio Mixing Software by our editors (7.8/10); pricing: Free plan; best for linux users needing basic system audio controls.
At a glance
- Editor score7.8 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forLinux users needing basic system audio controls
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Facts checked24 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Controls master volume and individual mixer channels.
- Manages multiple sound devices from the desktop.
- Offers system-tray operation and keyboard volume shortcuts.
Where it doesn't
- Focused on system audio control, not multitrack production.
- Limited to Linux desktop use.
- Does not provide substantive audio-production capabilities.
Our verdict on KMix
KMix is KDE’s desktop sound mixer for Linux, aimed at people who want direct control over system audio rather than a production workstation. It provides master-volume adjustment, per-channel mixer controls, and mute and unmute commands. Its scope makes it a fit for everyday desktop sound management, especially for solo users and small setups that need to adjust system output without a multitrack workflow.
The utility’s practical strength is its combination of channel controls and device management. KMix can manage multiple sound devices, so its controls are useful when a Linux desktop has more than one audio device to select or adjust. It can also run in the system tray and provides keyboard shortcuts for volume changes. These features keep common system-level adjustments close at hand; they do not turn KMix into a tool for arranging or mixing tracks.
KMix is free and open-source KDE software for Linux desktops. That makes it a straightforward choice for Linux users seeking a no-cost system mixer, but its narrow focus is also the key limitation for buyers considering audio mixing software. Choose KMix for master and channel volume, mute controls, and device management. If the goal is multitrack audio production, it is not the right fit; its described role is desktop audio control rather than a multitrack workstation.
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KMix pricing
KMix fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Maximum tracks | Not verified |
| Surround mixing | Not verified |
| Stem separation | Not verified |
| Cloud collaboration | Not verified |
| Live audio input | Not verified |
| Supported platforms | Linux |
| Export formats | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Linux |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | apps.kde.org |
| Facts checked | 24 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to KMix
- Fairlight LiveA capable free mixer for teams handling complex live, broadcast, and immersive audio.9.4
- Waves eMotion LV1A high-capacity live mixer for networked FOH, monitor, broadcast and recording workflows.9.2
- MixPadA flexible freemium mixer for recording, editing, and producing audio across desktop and mobile.8.9
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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