Allen & Heath ZEDi 10FX vs Behringer Wing: 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 ZEDi 10FX vs. Behringer Wing.

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 ZEDi 10FX and Behringer Wing. 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 ZEDi-10FX

Exceptional Sound Quality

You Should Read This Next!
How To Get Signed To A Label In 2024 (Remember: It's You Vs. AI now!👀)

I've been using the ZEDi-10FX with my computer for speech recording, and I'm amazed by the sound quality. It's far superior to the Behringer Xenyx 302USB I used previously.

With support for 24-bit audio, I can separate audio for echo-free conference calls. The setup was straightforward, though the driver URL in the instructions was incorrect.

The noise floor is incredibly low, giving me a much broader dynamic range. This mixer is not just slightly better than the Xenyx; it's a significant upgrade, even in a non-ideal home office environment.

Versatility and User-Friendly

A Great Choice for Various Applications

This mixer is versatile and user-friendly, ideal for podcasting, voice-over, and video production work. It offers more than a standard stereo track over USB, with additional I/O and tactile control.

The preamps are warm and clean, and the converters sound accurate and natural. It's an excellent hybrid USB mixer, combining the best of both worlds for my needs.

Tremendous Value with Great Features

Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX
Check It Out

Perfect for Home Studio Use

Considering its features, this mixer is an incredible value for money. The sound is fantastic, and the 4×4 USB connectivity is a standout feature.

The mixer lacks some high-end features like individual channel mutes and channel faders, but these aren't missed in a home studio context. It's a fantastic unit for small live setups, home studios, podcasting, or streaming.

Good Sound Quality but Quirky USB Routing

Solid, Low Noise, Great Preamps

I'm quite happy with the mixer's connectivity and the quality of the preamps and controls. However, the USB interface to iOS devices can be quirky, sometimes not working as expected.

The routing of USB audio output into the FX channel is confusing and could be improved for better workflow in DAWs.

Great Mixer for Podcasts and Music

Flexible Routing Options

This mixer has been a workhorse for podcasts and music. The routing options are truly flexible, allowing me to capture audio in various settings. It's not the most visually appealing mixer, but its versatility makes up for it. It's a reliable tool in any home studio or small venue.

Some Issues with Sound Quality

Not Everyone's Cup of Tea

While I found the sound quality of the ZEDi-10FX to be excellent, it's worth noting that not everyone has had the same experience. Some users have reported poor sound quality, leading them to switch to different brands. It's a reminder that audio equipment can be subjective and varies based on individual needs and setups.

High-Quality Compact Mixer with USB Interface

Great for Teleconferencing and Personal Use

The ZED i8 is a high-quality, compact analog audio mixer with an integrated USB audio interface. It's perfect for teleconferencing applications, podcasting, webcast streaming, and more. The mixer offers great sound quality with low noise and good preamps, making it a cut above similar units at this price point.

Behringer Wing

Coming from a traditional manual mixing background, the initial setup of this digital beast was a bit overwhelming. It's a whole different ballgame, but thanks to some helpful online resources (shoutout to Drew Brashler on YouTube), I managed to navigate through most of its functionalities.

Transition from Analog to Digital

Transitioning from an analog mixer like the Behringer Xenyx 2442 to the WING was like stepping into the future. The digital scribble strip is a game-changer – say goodbye to masking tape and markers. And the ability to save settings on a USB stick is pure gold. No more panicking over messed-up settings; just reboot and you're back in business.

Connectivity and Remote Control

Pairing it with the Behringer SD16 stagebox expanded our setup, making it perfect for our medium-sized church. The mixer's wifi control capability is super handy, though I'd recommend using a tablet over a phone for a better experience. It's a lifesaver for live mixing or for bands wanting to make demos without breaking the bank.

Recording and Expansion Options

The USB interface for DAW integration is slick. But, if you're serious about multi-track recording, consider getting the X-Live SD expansion card. Yes, it's an extra expense, but being able to record all 32 channels simultaneously for virtual soundchecks is invaluable, especially for fine-tuning mixes.

Learning Curve and User Experience

There's definitely a steep learning curve, especially if digital mixers are new to you. But the control and convenience you get with digital are unmatched. The mixer's flexibility in routing, multiple outputs, and sound shaping tools like EQ, gates, and compressors are just mind-blowing.

Build and Portability

The mixer feels sturdy and reliable. It's surprisingly portable for its capabilities, making it a great choice for on-the-road gigs or permanent installation. I do recommend getting a solid flight case for it if you're traveling, or a Decksaver cover for permanent setups – it's worth the investment for protection.
Final Thoughts

Overall, the Behringer WING is an absolute beast that offers outstanding value for its price. The flexibility, sound quality, and range of features it packs are phenomenal for a mixer in this price range. Whether you're running a church service, a small band, or even a home studio, this mixer has got you covered. Just be prepared to invest some time in learning its ins and outs.

Head 2 Head: Allen & Heath ZEDi 10FX or Behringer Wing

Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX: A Standout for Sound Quality and Versatility

Zooming into the details, it's undeniable that the Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX's sound quality is a cut above many mixers, especially when compared to the Behringer Xenyx 302USB. The low noise floor and 24-bit audio support make it a superior USB mixer for echo-free conference calls, while the warm preamps offer natural and accurate sound for podcasting, voice-over, and video production work.

This mixing console doubles as an audio interface, serving up a tasty blend of analog and digital capabilities. Although some users have had mixed experiences with sound quality, it seems that this could be more about individual setup differences than a universal issue.

Behringer Wing: A Digital Powerhouse

On the other side of the coin is the Behringer Wing – a digital mixer that feels like a leap into the future from traditional analog mixers like its sibling, the Behringer Xenyx 2442. This digital mixing desk offers phenomenal flexibility in routing and sound shaping tools like EQs, gates, and compressors. It's hard not to be wowed by its ability to save settings on USB sticks – no more heart-stopping moments over messed-up configurations.

The flexibility doesn't stop there. Pairing it with stageboxes like Behringer SD16 transforms this live sound mixing console into an ideal choice for medium-sized venues such as churches. Plus, its wifi control capability takes convenience to another level – just make sure you're using a tablet for optimal experience!

Recording Capabilities: ZEDi-10FX vs Wing

When it comes to recording capabilities, both mixers have their merits. The Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX offers 4×4 USB connectivity, making it a fantastic audio interface for small live setups and home studios. However, the USB routing to iOS devices can be a bit erratic.

The Behringer Wing's slick USB interface for DAW integration is top-notch. But if you're recording-obsessed, consider getting the X-Live SD expansion card to record all 32 channels simultaneously – a godsend for virtual soundchecks.

The Verdict: And the Winner is…

After comparing these two contenders in the realm of mixing consoles, it's clear that both offer outstanding value and features. However, there can only be one winner…and drum roll please…the crown goes to the Behringer Wing.

The Behringer Wing is not just a digital mixer; it's an absolute powerhouse that takes sound quality, flexibility, and range of features to new heights. This mixer's abilities go beyond just being a live sound mixing console; whether you're running a church service, managing a small band, or operating a home studio, this mixer has got your back.

Just remember – digital mixers come with their own learning curve. So buckle up and get ready to learn some new tricks with this beast of an audio interface!