10 Unbelievable Differences: Behringer X32 vs Producer Showdown – Which One Triumphs?

Today, I am reviewing two very popular mixers (or audio interfaces if you're posh :-p) the Behringer X32 and Behringer X32 Producer.

Key Differences Between Behringer X32 And Behringer X32 Producer

Key Differences between Behringer X32 and Behringer X32 Producer:

• Form factor: The original Behringer X32 is larger than the X32 Producer, which is designed to be more compact and rack-mountable.
• Hardware features: The Behringer X32 comes with a larger 7-inch TFT screen, dedicated mute group buttons, and scribble strips for easy channel identification. The X32 Producer has a smaller 5-inch TFT screen and no dedicated mute group buttons or scribble strips.
• Inputs/Outputs: The original Behringer X32 has 32 mic inputs, 16 main outputs, and 25 faders. In contrast, the X32 Producer comes with 16 mic inputs, 8 main outputs, and 17 faders.

Both mixers are equipped with Midas preamps for high-quality sound capture, FireWire/USB connectivity for seamless integration with computer-based recording setups, and powerful onboard effects engines with numerous effects options.

Choosing between the Behringer X32 vs X32 Producer depends on your specific needs regarding portability versus hardware features.

If you prefer a more compact mixer that can be easily transported while maintaining essential functionality for live events or studio work, the X32 Producer might suit your needs better.

However, if you desire additional physical controls like scribble strips and mute group buttons along with extra inputs/outputs provided by the original X32 model's larger footprint may be worth considering.

Feature	Behringer X32	Behringer X32 Producer
Channels	40-Input, 25-Bus	40-Input, 25-Bus
Faders	25 x 100mm Motorized Faders	17 x 100mm Motorized Faders
Display	7″ TFT Color Display	5″ TFT Color Display
Preamps	32 x Midas-designed Mic Preamps	16 x Midas-designed Mic Preamps
Outputs	16 x XLR Outputs	8 x XLR Outputs
USB Audio Interface	32 x 32 Channels	32 x 32 Channels
Effects	8 x Stereo FX Engines	8 x Stereo FX Engines
EQs	6-band Parametric EQs	6-band Parametric EQs
Dynamics Processing	Compressor, Gate, Expander, Limiter	Compressor, Gate, Expander, Limiter
Remote Control	iPad and iPhone apps available	iPad and iPhone apps available
Size	35.4″ x 20.8″ x 7.9″	19″ Rack-mountable
Weight	45.4 lbs	25.1 lbs

What You Need To Know About Behringer X32

Right off the bat, I have to say that the Behringer X32 has been a game-changer for many live sound engineers and small to mid-sized venues.

With its 40-input, 25-bus digital mixing console, it offers a lot of features for its price range.

I've had my fair share of experiences with this mixer, and I'd like to break down the good, the bad, and the ugly.

The Good:

1) The X32 has an intuitive layout and user-friendly interface. Once you get familiar with its workflow and navigation, it allows for quicker adjustments on-the-fly during performances.

2) It boasts 32 Midas-designed preamps, well-known in the industry for their quality. This means you can expect excellent sound from your sources.

3) The X32 offers a ton of built-in processing power, including EQs, compressors/limiters, gates/expander on each channel, as well as four effects slots that can be utilized for different purposes like reverb or delays.

4) Its ability to be controlled remotely using mobile devices is a fantastic feature. Apps like Mixing Station XAir (For Android) or iPad apps provide more convenience when controlling the mix from different locations in a venue.

The Bad:

1) While Behringer's build quality has come a long way in recent years and their customer support has improved greatly too, it's worth noting that some users have reported issues with hardware failures after extended use. In my experience though, I haven't encountered any such problems.

2) The onboard effects are decent but may not always match up to high-end professional effects processors. This isn't necessarily an issue if you plan on using external hardware/additional plugins through DAW integration.

3) The X32 can be a bit daunting for beginners. It does come with a learning curve, and some users may require more time to familiarize themselves with its features.

The Ugly:

1) Some might find the faders a tad noisy when moving them up and down. This isn't exactly an issue during live mixing, but it can be annoying when working in quiet environments.

2) In its price range, the X32 doesn't have motorized faders for all 32 channels. Instead, it has 17 motorized faders, which means you'll need to use layers/banks to access all your channels. However, this is pretty standard for mixers of this size and price point.

In conclusion, if you're on the market for a digital mixer in the same price range as the Behringer X32, its features and capabilities are hard to beat.

Keep in mind that there is a learning curve to using this console effectively but once you've mastered it, the X32 can considerably improve your live mixing experience.

What You Need To Know About Behringer X32 Producer

I recently got my hands on the Behringer X32 Producer, and let me tell you, it's a pretty impressive digital mixer.

But before we delve into the nitty-gritty, let's give a brief overview of its specs.

The Behringer X32 Producer is a 40-input, 25-bus digital mixing console with 16 programmable MIDAS preamps, 17 motorized faders, a Channel LCD screen, and an iPad/iPhone remote control.

It also packs a whole lot of effects and processing power.

Now that we've got the basics out of the way, let's dive into some more detailed thoughts on this piece of gear.

The Good:

1. Portability: The X32 Producer is smaller and more portable than its bigger brother (the X32), making it ideal for touring musicians or small-to-medium-sized venues.

2. MIDAS Preamps: All 16 programmable mic preamps are designed by MIDAS, known for their great sound quality and clarity.

3. User Interface: I found the user interface to be quite intuitive. The layout is well-organized with dedicated buttons for each section.

4. iPad/iPhone Control: Being able to control your mix remotely using an iPad or iPhone is extremely convenient during live performances when mobility is key.

5. Built-in FX: With 8 stereo FX slots available for use simultaneously, there are plenty of effects options at your disposal.

The Bad:

1. Fader Feel: Although I appreciate the compact size of this mixer, I noticed that the fader travel feels shorter than other mixers I've used in the past.

2. No Scribble Strips: Unlike the X32, the X32 Producer doesn't have scribble strips above the faders, which can make channel identification a bit more challenging in a live setting.

3. Learning Curve: While I found the interface to be intuitive, there is still a learning curve for new users. In particular, it can take some time to understand how to route signals properly.

The Ugly:

1. Screen Size: The smaller screen on the X32 Producer (compared to full-sized X32) might not be ideal for users with poor eyesight or those who prefer a larger display.

2. No Dedicated AUX Sends Knobs: Instead of dedicated auxiliary send knobs per channel (like on other mixers), you'll need to navigate through menus to adjust sends on each channel individually.

Overall, I think the Behringer X32 Producer is an excellent choice for musicians and sound engineers who need a powerful, portable digital mixer without breaking the bank.

While it does have a few shortcomings compared to its bigger sibling (the full-sized X32), it's still packed with features and delivers great sound quality thanks in part to its MIDAS preamps.

If you're considering purchasing this mixer, be prepared for some time spent getting familiar with its interface and routing capabilities – but once you've got that down, there's no doubt that this mixer will serve your needs both in-studio and on-stage.

 

Who The Behringer X32 Is For & Why You Might Choose It Over The Behringer X32 Producer

Behringer X32: A versatile digital mixer for various professionals

The Behringer X32 is a powerful and versatile 40-input, 25-bus digital mixing console designed for a wide range of professionals.

Whether you are an audio engineer, musician, or sound technician, this mixer can enhance your live sound capabilities and studio recording sessions.

Let's explore who the Behringer X32 is for and why you might choose it over the Behringer X32 Producer.

Who is the Behringer X32 for?

The Behringer X32 is suitable for professionals such as:

1. Live Sound Engineers: The X32 offers extensive routing options, making it perfect for managing complex live setups and easily addressing last-minute changes during performances.

2. Musicians & Bands: With its high-quality preamps, onboard effects processing, and remote control capabilities via iPad or laptop, musicians can achieve professional sound quality on stage.

3. Studio Engineers & Producers: The mixer's advanced processing features and DAW integration enable seamless studio workflow enhancements to streamline recording sessions.

4. Theatre Sound Designers & Technicians: For theatrical productions requiring significant input/output capabilities and scene recall functions, the X32 delivers comprehensive control over every audio aspect of a performance.

5. Houses of Worship & Corporate Events: The system's expandability options make it suitable for installations in churches or venues that host large events or conferences requiring advanced sound management.

Why choose the Behringer X32 over the Behringer X32 Producer?

While both mixers share many features, there are key reasons why someone might opt for the full-sized Behringer X32 instead of its smaller counterpart:

• Channel Count & Inputs/Outputs: The X32 offers 40 input channels (32 mic preamps) and 25 mix buses, whereas the X32 Producer has 40 input channels but only 16 mic preamps. This makes the X32 more suitable for situations requiring a higher number of inputs or outputs.

• Onboard Interface: The Behringer X32 features a larger, adjustable color display and dedicated buttons for quick access to important functions, making it easier to navigate than the smaller screen on the Producer version.

• Expandability Options: Due to its extra AES50 ports, the full-sized X32 can connect with other digital devices or stage boxes more effectively than the Producer model. This allows for greater flexibility in larger setups.

• Physical Adjustability: With its motorized faders, customizable scribble strips, and an angled chassis design, the Behringer X32 offers an ergonomic mixing experience compared to its smaller counterpart.

In summary, while both mixers serve as excellent tools for various professionals and applications, those needing enhanced capabilities in terms of inputs/outputs, expandability options and ease of use should consider investing in the Behringer X32 over its smaller sibling –the Behringer X3 For2ducer.

Who The Behringer X32 Producer Is For & Why You Might Choose It Over The Behringer X32

The Behringer X32 Producer is a versatile, high-quality digital mixing console that is suitable for those who require professional features but in a compact format. This makes it perfect for:

• Live sound engineers: The X32 Producer offers advanced mixing capabilities and excellent sound quality, making it ideal for live performances in small to medium-sized venues.
• Studio engineers and producers: The console provides a wide range of built-in effects and processing options, allowing studio professionals to create polished recordings without the need for external hardware.
• Film and video productions: With its comprehensive connectivity options, the X32 Producer can easily integrate with film set audio systems or mobile recording rigs.
• Houses of worship:The intuitive workflow and customizable control surface make it an excellent choice for churches and other religious organizations that need a reliable mixer for their audio-visual presentations.
• Schools and educational institutions: The durability, simplicity, and affordable price point make this mixer a solid investment for schools looking to upgrade their audio equipment.

Why choose the Behringer X32 Producer over the Behringer X32?

While both products offer impressive digital mixing capabilities designed by Behringer, there are several reasons why someone might prefer the X32 Producer over the standard X32 model. These include:

• Compact size: The X32 Producer has been designed with portability in mind. Its smaller form factor provides greater flexibility in setting up your mixing environment while still maintaining all essential functionality. This makes it an excellent option for situations where space is limited and for on-the-go professionals.
• Affordability: The X32 Producer typically comes at a lower price point compared to the full-size X32. This makes it more accessible for smaller venues, budget-conscious individuals, or those just starting in the industry.
• Ease of use: Though both consoles have intuitive designs, the streamlined layout of the X32 Producer might be easier to navigate for users who are new to digital mixing or simply prefer less complexity without sacrificing capabilities.

In conclusion, the Behringer X32 Producer is a great choice for those who need professional-quality sound mixing features in a compact and user-friendly format.

Its combination of high performance, size efficiency, and affordability make it an appealing option over its larger counterpart.

 

Buyer's Guide: Important Things To Consider & Look Out For When Buying A Mixer

1. Channel Surfing Isn't Just for TV

Before diving into the deep end of the digital audio mixer pool, it's crucial to know how many channels you'll need.

Are you a bedroom producer that only needs a few input channels, or a live sound engineer requiring an entire mini-orchestra?

Make sure there are enough inputs and outputs on your console to accommodate your setup.

But wait, we're talking about digital mixers here! Behringer X32 vs Behringer X32 Producer, for example?

They both have 40-input channels with 25 mix busses – perfect for band performances or small theatre productions!

2. Fear of Commitment: Analog vs Digital Mixers

Deciding between an analog and digital mixer is like choosing between Tinder and eHarmony – they can both get the job done, but one's simpler while the other offers more options.

However today, we aren't looking to find our soulmate – just our perfect mixing companion.

Digital mixers provide features like presets, multiple FX engines, wireless control options (hey there!, iPad), and more flexibility in routing signals within your workspace.

So why not swipe right on that digital audio mixer?

3. Can You Hear Me Now? Preamps Matter!

Let me tell you something: preamps are not created equal!

With a good preamp design at its core (I'm looking at you Midas!), your mixer can breathe life into vocals and instruments alike with pristine audio quality.

But if preamps are bae then A/D converters are their side chick because without them working in harmony together – it don't matter how good your source signal is.

That's why when selecting a digital audio mixer (like comparing Behringer X32 vs Behringer X32 Producer), it's critical to pay attention to the quality of preamps and converters.

4. Space, the Final Frontier

Forget NASA – when it comes to mixers, space is crucial! How much room do you have in your studio or live sound booth?

Digital mixers come in different sizes and shapes, from glorified iPads (Roland M-200i) to hulking beasts with enough faders for a spaceship (Yamaha CL5).

Take measurements, make a plan 📐 and choose accordingly.

5. Built-In FX: The Toppings on Your Audio Sundae

Do you scream for ice cream but want more than just vanilla? A digital mixer with built-in FX can sweeten up your audio sundae with everything from reverbs and delays 🍨to pitch correction (think Auto-Tune) 🍒.

Make sure your mixer has the right mix of FX engines and processing capabilities for your needs (like Soundcraft Si Impact's 29 onboard effects).

6. Your Money(💸), Your Mixer!

Price can be a deal-breaker when considering a digital audio mixer investment.

You might not need gold-plated knobs or AI-driven faders (although who doesn't want that?), so set yourself a realistic budget before getting sucked into gear lust.

Keep an eye on promo deals, discounts, or even quality second-hand options!

7. Connectivity: More Than Just Connecting Hearts❤️

Digital snake systems, multi-track recording interfaces… these are terms that might keep popping up as you search for digital mixers.

Connectivity is king – whether sharing stage mics with multiple consoles🎤 at festivals or tracking live shows straight into your DAW💻 .

Keep track of your I/O needs and check for digital mixers offering built-in interfaces, support for various network protocols or expandable systems to connect with external gear.

8. Go Wireless or Go Home

It's 2022! Wires are so passé. Look out for digital mixers that offer wireless options like remote control using a tablet (iPad) or smartphone 📱, giving you the liberty to roam free around the stage during soundcheck.

Sneak into the crowd and make on-the-fly adjustments like a boss!

9. Saving Presets: Your Mixer's Memory is Better Than Yours

Remembering settings can be hard enough – don't leave it up to your brain cells when a digital mixer can save presets instead.

Look out for consoles that store channel EQs, FX settings, fader positions, etc., so you can easily recall them at different gigs (or even mid-show!).

After all, life is too short to spend hours tweaking knobs every single time.

10. Learning Curve: Don't Fall Off That Cliff!

Digital mixers tend to have more bells and whistles than their analog counterparts 🎺🔔(we're looking at you touchscreens!).

So unless you have an affinity for hieroglyphics and cryptic UIs – consider getting a mixer with an intuitive interface (*cough* Behringer X32 vs Behringer X32 Producer *cough*).

Invest in tutorials or online courses if needed because let's face it; ain't nobody got time for manuals!

Now that we've equipped you with this handy listicle of 10 key factors when searching for a digital audio mixer – don your detective hat 🕵️‍♀️and find yourself the perfect mixing partner!

Happy hunting! 🎛🎚

FAQs

About Author