Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX vs Behringer Xenyx 802: Detailed Mixer Comparison and Buyer’s Guide (2024)

You're ready to make a big purchase, but you're having trouble deciding between these two powerhouses, the Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX and the Behringer Xenyx 802.

Trust me, I know how difficult that decision is… especially if you have no plans on whipping out that dreaded return postage label!

You know how the saying goes, buy right, buy once! Or something like that…

Either way, I've got you covered!

I've broken down the good, the bad and the ugly of these babies, so providing you have a clear idea of exactly what you plan on doing with it, you will have a clear idea on which one is best for you, by the end of this article.

Let get into it…

At A Glance:

Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX

Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX Pros & Cons

• Pros:
  • Well built.
  • Sounds good.
  • Preamps and EQ are solid.
  • 4 track USB out, for multitracking.
  • Clean preamps.
  • Easy setup with Windows 10 Professional.
  • Lower noise floor than other mixers.
• Cons:
  • No per-track mute button.
  • No per-track faders.
  • Complicated and lacking advanced routing.
  • Main outs are XLR but there are no TRS main outs.
  • Monitor outs are RCA.
  • Odd form factor with wasted space.
  • Poor quality onboard FX.
  • Not the cheapest multitrack mixer on the market.

 

Behringer Xenyx 802

Behringer Xenyx 802 Pros & Cons

• Pros:
  • Good value for the price.
  • Comes with a comprehensive manual in several languages.
  • Most of the controls work flawlessly.
  • Good for educational purposes and possibly for small bands, starting DJs, low-budget community theaters, etc.
  • Good for venues that mostly involve talking, like churches.
  • Can be used with a variety of inputs and outputs.
  • Sturdy build quality and survived a drop test from 3 feet onto a hardwood floor.
  • Packaging is secure and fits the unit tightly.
  • Does not affect sound quality when routed through a home theater system.
  • Can be used to incorporate a karaoke system into a home theater.
• Cons:
  • The light signifying that the unit is on is obnoxiously bright.
  • High distortion, especially when using an MP3 player as input.
  • EQs did little to eliminate distortion.
  • 3/4 and 5/6 inputs should not have been considered 6 inputs.
  • Lack of individual controls for each input.
  • Does not have an EQ bypass feature.
  • Digital I/O is USB, which is slower than Firewire for data transfers.
  • No cables are included with the mixer.
  • Produces some heat over time, especially where the LEDs are located.
  • Does not have an on/off switch.
  • Lack of ventilation on the unit.

Key Differences Between The Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX And The Behringer Xenyx 802

The main differences between Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX and Behringer Xenyx 802 are many, depending on a user's specific needs.

The Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX is well-regarded in the music industry for its:

• Durability and hands-on control of an analogue mixer merged with a top-notch 4×4 USB interface.
• Inclusion of 4 mic preamps, which facilitate track capturing or mixes to your digital audio workstation at a high quality of 96 kHz/24-bit.
• A Hi-Pass Filter, a 3-Band Equalizer, XLR Main Output, and FX Output which allows users substantial control over their sound.
• The model's portability; it is well-suited to performers needing an audio interface/mixer combo.

The Behringer Xenyx 802, on the other hand, is favourable for its:

• Affordability without sacrificing performance quality.
• Ideal functionality for home-based live performances and recording purposes due to its quality preamps that offer an impressive 130 dB of dynamic range extending bandwidth from below 10 Hz to above 200 kHz.
• Built-in input/output via USB and two XLR inputs which make it a suitable option for small-scale performances or home studio use.

 

Although some reviews suggest that the Allen & Heath model may offer superior sound quality, the Behringer mixer does provide solid performance considering its lower price point.

From a financial perspective, if there are no significant differences in sound quality based on your requirements then the more affordable Behringer might be suitable as it is often regarded as cheaper than Allen & Heath.

This decision should be made depending upon your personal needs such as budget constraints/preferences or particular features you require.

Further research may be necessary to ensure you choose the mixer which aligns best with your specific needs.

Specifications	Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX	Behringer Xenyx 802
Color	–	Silver/Gray
Build Quality	High-level audio and build quality as A&H’s large format touring consoles	Premium Ultra-Low Noise, High Headroom Analog Mixer
Preamps	GS-Pre XLR microphone preamps	2 State-Of-The-Art Xenyx Mic Preamps Comparable To Stand-Alone Boutique Preamps
HiZ Connections	Two HiZ connections for direct connection of high impedance sources	–
High Pass Filter	100Hz High Pass Filter on every mono input	–
EQ	3-band MusiQ EQ	–
FX Unit	Built-in, studio quality multi-FX unit provides 61 different, tweakable FX types	–
USB Interface	Built-in, high quality, 96kHz 4×4 USB interface	Built-In Stereo Usb/Audio Interface
Inputs	4 x Mic/Line Inputs, 2 x Stereo ( 2 Left, 2 Right), 2 USB Audio	–
Compressors	–	Studio-Grade Compressors With Super-Easy “One-Knob” Functionality
Software	–	Free Audio Recording, Editing And Podcasting Software Plus 150 Instrument/Effect Plug-Ins Downloadable At Behringer.Com

What You Need To Know About Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX

The Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX is a compact mixer that packs a punch, offering the same top-notch audio and build quality of A&H's big-touring consoles.

This feature-packed device has separate internal channel boards, Neutrik connectors, and every pot is fixed to its chassis.

Feel confident recording your vocals or instruments thanks to the GS-Pre XLR microphone preamps.

These not only reduce noise but also provide a huge headroom, resulting in full, warm sounds that truly enhance any microphone's performance.

The mixer also includes two HiZ connections for high impedance sources like electric guitars or stick-on pickups for acoustic instruments – no need for separate DI boxes!

Want to get rid of unwanted low frequencies? The 100Hz High Pass Filter on every mono input can handle it.

And with the 3-band MusiQ EQ, you can shape your sound with precision using carefully selected frequencies.

But what about effects? The built-in multi-FX unit doesn't disappoint. It boasts 61 different types of studio-quality effects such as reverbs, delays and modulation – all tweakable!

Even better, they have tap tempo to keep everything in sync.

Perhaps one of the most impressive features is the high-quality 96kHz 4×4 USB interface. Use it to easily capture or stream your mix or individual channels.

You can even add extra FX from your computer as it offers routing options for Aux and FX sends.

The ZEDi-10FX also offers compatibility beyond just Macs and Windows PCs; you can connect many mobile devices including tablets and smartphones due to its class-compliant design requiring no drivers.

With its 4 Mic/Line Inputs plus two stereo inputs (2 Left, 2 Right), this mixer gives you great flexibility for your audio setup.

Get ready to enjoy incredible sound quality with Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX!

My 1 Month Review Of The Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX

Getting Acquainted with Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX

From the moment I unboxed the Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX, I knew I was in for a treat.

This little powerhouse caught my eye with its robust construction and compact size, fitting comfortably on my desk.

A month of Use: The Hardware

This mixer is built like a tank! After a month of daily use, the ZEDi-10FX is still as solid as day one.

The knobs are firm, steady, and have a satisfying resistance to them. And oh, those faders! They glide smoothly without any wobble or play.

• Compact yet solidly built
• Firm knobs with satisfying resistance
• Smooth gliding faders

The Sound Quality

The sound quality has truly blown me away. It's crystal clear and crisp! What stands out even more is how noise-free it is—no hissing or buzzing whatsoever.

That built-in FX feature? It's like icing on an already delicious cake; it adds just that extra touch to make your sound stand out.

• Exceptional sound quality
• Noise-free performance
• Handy built-in FX feature

The Software

I found the included Cubase LE software easy to install and even easier to use. It works flawlessly with my Mac, making recording sessions a total breeze.

Plus, the bundled software really adds value to this mixer—it’s like getting two products for the price of one.

I’d also like you to know that this isn't just for music production; podcasters would find this mixer super useful too!

Versatility and Ease of Use

The flexibility of this mixer is another major plus point.

Whether you're recording vocals/instruments or handling live performances, this versatile piece of gear handles it all effortlessly—one moment I’m laying down some guitar tracks at home; next thing you know, I’m taking it along for live gigs no problem!

All in all, after spending over a month with Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX mixer, my hands-on experience suggests that it’s an excellent piece gear offering great sound quality, durability and versatility—definitely worth every penny.

• Versatile – suitable for studio work and live shows
• Great value courtesy of included software

What You Need To Know About Behringer Xenyx 802

The Behringer Xenyx 802 is a top-notch analog mixer, available in a sleek silver/gray color.

It stands out for its ultra-low noise and high headroom, ensuring that your sound remains crisp and clear.

What's cool about this mixer is it has 2 high-quality Xenyx Mic Preamps. These are as good as those fancy standalone boutique preamps you see in professional music studios.

One of the best parts is the built-in studio-grade compressors. They come with a super-easy “one-knob” function.

This makes it really simple to get that pro vocal and instrumental sound you're after.

But here's where things get really interesting: the Behringer Xenyx 802 has a built-in stereo USB/Audio interface.

This means you can connect it directly to your computer. Even better, when you buy this mixer, you also get free audio recording, editing and podcasting software!

You can download up to 150 instrument/effect plug-ins at Behringer’s website.

So whether you're just starting out or already a pro, this mixer could be exactly what you need for your setup.

My 1 Month Review Of The Behringer Xenyx 802

After a month of testing the Behringer Xenyx 802, here are my thoughts:

Sound Quality

The Behringer Xenyx 802 delivers an exceptional sound quality.

Whether I was recording vocals or instruments, the clarity and detail in every note were amazing. The preamps produce a clean and warm sound that is truly a delight to hear.

Ease of Use

I found the Xenyx 802 to be very user-friendly.

All knobs and faders are well-labeled and easy to understand. This made it easy for me to start using it right out of the box without needing much help from the manual.

Versatility

This mixer’s versatility is one thing that really stands out.

With multiple input channels, I could connect various audio sources simultaneously without any issues.

This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for both live performances and studio recordings.

Durability

One month in, and this product shows no signs of wear or tear.

The knobs still turn smoothly, and overall, the build quality is top-notch.

Value for Money

When it comes to value for money, you can't beat Behringer Xenyx 802.

For its price range, you get so much – great sound quality, ease-of-use, versatility and durability that surpasses other mixers in its class.

Here's a quick recap:

• Exceptional sound quality
• User-friendly interface
• Versatile with multiple input channels
• Durable build quality
• Excellent value for money

In conclusion, I'm totally satisfied with my purchase.

The Behringer Xenyx 802 has become an indispensable part of my home studio setup. Whether you're a beginner or professional, this mixer won't disappoint.

Who The Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX Is For & Why You Might Choose It Over The Behringer Xenyx 802

The Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX is for those who are seeking a well-built and high-quality mixer.

It's ideal if you're new to the world of mixers or if you're looking for a mixer that offers solid preamps and EQ. Here are some key reasons why you might choose to buy it:

Product Quality:

• The ZEDi-10FX has excellent build quality.
• It delivers great sound performance.

Features:

• It offers 4 track USB out, making it perfect for multitracking.
• The preamps in this mixer provide clean sound outputs, which makes it stand out from other mixers.

However, the ZEDi-10FX may not be the best choice if you're an experienced user who requires more advanced routing options.

This is due to its complicity and lack in certain areas such as:

• No per-track mute button or faders
• Limited routing capabilities
• Absence of TRS main outs and presence of RCA monitor outs

Note: As an electronic musician who frequently routes to various FX, you might find the current layout a little frustrating due to its odd form factor and the close proximity of knobs.

Nevertheless, when compared with other devices on the market like Mackie VLZ 402, Zoom H4n Pro 2016 edition, Tascam DR100 MKii—the Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX still stands tall in terms of superior preamp quality.

So whether you believe me or not—I've got mine and I'm enjoying every bit of it!

 

Who The Behringer Xenyx 802 Is For & Why You Might Choose It Over The Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX

The Behringer Xenyx 802 is an affordable, compact mixer ideal for individuals looking to start their journey in audio mixing. It's perfect for:

• Beginners or hobbyists who appreciate the detailed manual and the ease of set-up.

• Those on a budget, looking for a mixer that delivers good sound quality without breaking the bank.

• Users setting up a basic home entertainment system, such as karaoke or a home theater setup.

You might choose the Behringer Xenyx 802 because:

• It has an easy-to-understand manual. Even if you're new to mixing, you'll find it straightforward to get started.

• It's compatible with different types of inputs and outputs, making it versatile for different setups.

• The product offers good value for money. Reviewers noted that given its cost, it performs well in delivering sound quality.

However, some things might bother you such as:

• The bright power light which can be distracting. However, this can easily be fixed by dimming it with some lighting gel.

• Some distortion in sound quality depending on your inputs and outputs. You might need to take time adjusting your settings accordingly using your knowledge or through trial and error.

Other concerns include:

• Lack of EQ bypass: As one reviewer noted, most mixers have a button that allows you to choose whether or not to apply EQ.

• USB Digital I/O: At the time of this mixer’s release, Firewire was faster than USB in data transfers which was more widely adopted in pro sound world.

These points considered, if you're an individual looking for an introduction into audio mixing on a budget but still want decent sound quality – this could be the product for you.

Particularly suited to at-home use like karaoke nights or a home theatre setup.

If the options in this post haven't quite hit the mark for you, don't worry, I've got plenty more comparisons up my sleeve.

If you're interested in other models from Allen & Heath, check out the head-to-head battle between Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX and Mackie ProFXv3 Series.

Or perhaps you're considering a Tascam? In that case, see how it fares against Allen & Heath in my Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX vs Tascam Model 12 comparison.

We can't forget about Zoom either, and I've pitted it against Allen & Heath in this Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX vs Zoom LiveTrak L-8 review.

Meanwhile, if Behringer has caught your eye but you're not quite sold on the Xenyx 802 model from this post, consider how it holds its own against Mackie's offerings in my comparison of the Behringer Xenyx 1204USB and Mackie Mix Series Mix8.

Happy hunting!

FAQs

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

1. Understand Your Needs

The first step in purchasing a new studio mixer is to comprehend your specific requirements.

Are you going to use it for live sound mixing or as part of your studio recording equipment?

A compact mixer like the Behringer Xenyx 802 is ideal for small home studios.

It's an analog mixer that provides excellent sound quality and easy operation with a small format mixer design.

If you intend to use it for more demanding tasks, something more robust, such as the Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX, may be needed.

2. Balance Between Analog and Digital Sound

It's crucial to strike a balance between analog and digital sound when choosing an audio mixer.

Analog mixers are known for their warmth and musicality while digital mixers offer precision and consistency.

An excellent choice could be the Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX; this hybrid compact mixer offers both an analog interface along with USB connectivity, making it a versatile piece of studio gear.

3. Consider Size and Portability

If space is limited or mobility is important, then considering the size of your audio mixer becomes key.

A small format mixer, such as the Behringer Xenyx 802, enables easy transport while still delivering high-quality sound control on-the-go!

4. Look Out For Extra Features

A good rule of thumb when shopping for studio mixers: Don't overlook extra features!

The Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX comes with built-in digital effects,, enhancing its versatility greatly compared to simple audio mixers.

5. USB Audio Interface Matters

Perhaps you don't think much about how your new piece connects with other tech elements in your setup – but you should!

A quality USB audio interface,, like what's found on both the Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX and Behringer Xenyx 802 models, ensures smooth data transfer between devices while maintaining high sound quality.

6. Consider The Number Of Channels You Need

Do you know how many channels are required for your work needs?

It might seem easier grabbing an eight-channel console like Behringer Xenyx 802 if the price tag tempts you, but remember – too few channels limit expanded setups whilst too many can feel overwhelming!

7. Deciding On Your Budget

Last but certainly not least – deciphering on how much money are you willing to spend on this essential component in your equipment collection!

With affordable options available like the Behringer Xenyx 802 or higher-end choices such as the feature-packed Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX – there’s something available suitable within everyone’s budget.

Always remember that having clear idea about what sort of functions/features would best serve various needs saves both time/money over time without compromising performance or end results!

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