Allen & Heath ZED 12FX Vs. Tascam DP 24SD: Compared And Rated

Choosing the right mixer when there are so many on the market these days isn't easy.
Especially when many of them are built for one specific need but being marketed as an all-rounder 🙄
But not to worry, I've got ya!
I have taken a deep dive into two beasts in the audio-mixing game and gone head to head with them: Allen & Heath ZED 12FX vs. Tascam DP 24SD.

We're looking at things like:

Sound Quality: This is the heart of the matter, right? How each mixer holds up in delivering crisp, clear audio. Are we talking about a mixer that makes your tracks sound like they're live from the garage, or are we hitting studio-quality sound?
Ease of Use: Nobody wants to spend hours figuring out which button does what. I’ll break down the user interface of both Allen & Heath ZED 12FX and Tascam DP 24SD. Are they plug-and-play easy, or will you need a PhD in mixology to use them?
Features and Functions: Ie. What's under the hood? Let's find out what sets them apart.
Durability: No matter your reason for buying, you want something that's gonna last, not fall apart after a few light sessions.
Price Point: Yep, money talks. When it comes to prices, we need to see which mixer gives us more bang for our buck. Is the higher price of one justified by its features, or is the other a hidden gem at a bargain price?
Customer Reviews and Feedback: What's the word on the street? Sometimes real-world use tells a different story than what the sales page says.

Allen & Heath ZED-12FX

After using the Allen & Heath ZED12FX for about six months, I think it's a solid piece of gear, especially for those transitioning from basic to more advanced mixing needs. The sound quality is notably clean and clear, making it a reliable choice for both studio and live environments. Working with it, I've found that the preamps deliver a crystal-clear sound, and there’s an impressive amount of gain available, which is a step up from some lower-priced mixers I've used in the past.

Learning Curve and Usability

Although the mixer is fairly user-friendly, I believe beginners might find it a bit challenging at first, mainly due to the underwhelming instruction manual. It's more about trial and error unless you're already familiar with mixers. However, once you get the hang of it, the layout and controls become intuitive. The faders and knobs are smooth and responsive, adding to the overall ease of use.

Effects and Features

The ZED12FX stands out for its effects. The range and quality are commendable for a mixer in this class. It adds significant value, especially if you're into experimenting with different sound textures. However, the dedicated send and returns being 1/8 jacks is a bit puzzling. It's an odd choice considering the rest of the board adheres to industry standards. This might limit some traditional uses, but it's not a deal-breaker.

Reliability Concerns

One of the downsides I've noticed is the question of long-term reliability. I've heard about issues like pre-amps failing just after the warranty period, which can be a major concern if you're planning to use this mixer heavily. While I haven't faced this issue personally, it's something to keep in mind.

Overall Experience

In terms of overall experience, the Allen & Heath ZED12FX has mostly been a positive journey. The sound quality, ease of use (once you get past the learning curve), and the additional effects make it a worthy investment for someone looking to upgrade from a basic setup. Just be wary of the potential long-term reliability issues and ensure you have a backup plan in place.

Tascam DP-24SD Digital Portastudio

If you're looking for a sturdy powerhouse, this is it. The Tascam DP-24SD Digital Portastudio packs a punch with features and functionality that will impress anyone looking to delve into recording.

Recording Capabilities

This unit is a marvel for recording enthusiasts. It allows you to record up to 8 tracks quickly and efficiently. Its standalone nature means you can do everything from recording tracks to mixdown without needing a computer. The convenience of transferring the mixdown wave file from the SD card to a computer is a huge plus. The sound quality? It's studio-grade!

Intuitive Design

Despite its sophistication, the DP-24SD has a manageable learning curve. Especially with the wealth of YouTube tutorials available, it doesn't take long to get to grips with its features. It’s particularly ideal for home studio use or solo gigs, as you get professional-level results without a huge investment in time or money.

Build and User Interface

The build quality of the DP-24SD is solid and professional. The full-color display and 24 tracks with assignable inputs make it a versatile tool for various recording scenarios. However, some users might find the menu sequences a bit non-intuitive, requiring some practice to master.

Effects and Mastering

One of the standout features is its array of on-board effects. Although, it’s worth noting that the dynamic/compressor effects are only available for live recording, not for existing WAV/track files. This might limit its appeal for some users looking for more flexibility in post-production.

Overall Impression

For its price, the Tascam DP-24SD offers incredible capabilities. It's perfect for musicians who prefer a hands-on approach to recording and mixing, without getting bogged down in complex software. It's a dream machine for many, offering the most bang for the buck. However, be prepared for some firmware quirks and keep in mind the limitations regarding dynamic effects for pre-recorded tracks.
In summary, the Tascam DP-24SD is an excellent choice for those looking to create professional-quality recordings in a user-friendly, standalone device.

Head 2 Head: Allen & Heath ZED 12FX or Tascam DP 24SD

When it comes to the world of audio engineering, choosing the right studio equipment is crucial. It's like a chef choosing their knives – you need reliable tools that deliver quality performance every time. After extensive use, I've got two contenders on my hands: the Allen & Heath ZED 12FX mixing console and the Tascam DP-24SD digital audio recorder. Let's dive in and dissect these beasts.

The Allen & Heath ZED 12FX Mixing Console:

This suave little number is more than just a pretty face. With its clean and clear sound quality, it's like having your music delivered by a butler in a tuxedo – crisp, refined, and without any unnecessary noise. The preamps here are no joke either; they hit high notes clearer than an opera singer on Red Bull.

Learning Curve and Usability

However, getting to grips with this piece of studio equipment might feel like trying to ride a unicycle at first, especially for newbies. The manual could use some jazzing up; it's not exactly the most helpful guide out there. But once you've mastered this wild stallion (or should I say unicycle?), it becomes as smooth as buttered silk.

Effects and Features

If you're someone who likes to paint with different sound textures (basically the Picasso of audio effects), this mixing console provides a palette of options that can make your audio pop, dazzle or soothe – whatever floats your boat really.

Reliability Concerns

But let's address the elephant in the room: there have been whispers of long-term reliability issues. Like that one friend who always flakes out on your plans, some users have reported the pre-amps failing just when you need them most. So, if you're planning on using this for heavy-duty audio engineering, it's worth having a Plan B.

The Tascam DP-24SD Digital Audio Recorder:

It's robust. It's powerful. It's like the Hercules of digital audio recorders. With its ability to record up to 8 tracks simultaneously, this bad boy makes multi-track recording a breeze.

Recording Capabilities

The standalone nature of this device is its superpower. You can go from recording to mixdown quicker than Usain Bolt runs the 100m. And the sound quality? Picture Mozart playing live in your living room – that's how good it is.

Build and User Interface

The build quality of this digital audio recorder could make a tank feel insecure. The full-color display and assignable inputs make it as versatile as a Swiss Army knife in different recording scenarios.

Effects and Mastering

When it comes to effects, this machine has got you covered – unless you're trying to apply dynamic effects on pre-recorded tracks, then it might disappoint like finding an empty box of chocolates. All things considered, if I had to pick a winner (which I do), I'd cast my vote for the Tascam DP-24SD Digital Portastudio. While both contenders offer impressive features and sound quality, the DP-24SD takes the cake with its robust construction, versatile multi-track recording capabilities, and user-friendly interface. So whether you're a home studio enthusiast or a solo gig performer looking for professional-level results without getting tangled in complex software (or cables), Tascam's DP-24SD is your golden ticket to audio nirvana. And remember, in the world of live sound mixing and recording, it's not just about the journey but also the destination – and this piece of studio equipment ensures you arrive in style.