Allen & Heath ZEDi 10FX vs. Behringer XR18: 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 XR18.

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 XR18. 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 XR18

This is another mixer I got hold of just to review. It has a semi-hefty price-tag but what I will say is this: the Behringer XR18 is a unit that delivers far more than its price suggests. After several months of continuous use, I've faced zero reliability issues, making it a standout in its category.

Unbeatable Feature Set for the Price

The XR18's feature set is its biggest selling point. There's a wealth of options here that you'd struggle to find in other mixers within this price range. The audio quality is top-notch, and the control options are extensive. It's particularly great for those who need comprehensive control in a live setting or a studio environment.

Minor Downsides

Despite its strengths, there are a few areas where the XR18 could improve. One noticeable absence is the ability to do time-alignment, a feature available in the higher-class X32. There's also the matter of the built-in Wi-Fi, which can be a bit unreliable in live situations. I always ensure a hard-wired connection during critical events to avoid any potential connectivity issues. Lastly, there's a bit of a learning curve when switching between the software interfaces on different platforms, like iPad and computer.

Robust Software and Solid Hardware

The software is robust, offering comprehensive control over the unit, albeit with some platform-specific quirks. Hardware-wise, the unit feels solid and well-built, suitable for regular gigging.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, if you need a feature-rich mixer and the XR18 ticks all your boxes, go for it. It's an excellent investment, especially considering its price point. Sure, it has a couple of minor drawbacks, but these are easily outweighed by its overall performance and reliability. Whether for live use, studio work, or even podcasting, the XR18 is a versatile choice that won't disappoint.

Head 2 Head: Allen & Heath ZEDi 10FX or Behringer XR18

Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX: A Sound Investment

Swooping in with exceptional sound quality like a bat out of audio heaven, the Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX certainly sets the bar high. This USB interface is a multi-channel mixer that leaves many other audio mixers in the dust, especially when it comes to speech recording. With 24-bit audio support, it's like having your own personal soundproof room for echo-free conference calls. The setup is as straightforward as a monk's path to enlightenment, despite the slight hiccup of an incorrect driver URL in the instructions. But don't let that deter you. The noise floor on this mixing console is lower than a snake's belly in a wagon rut, giving you an impressive dynamic range.

User-Friendly Versatility

The Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX isn't just an analog mixer; it's also your new best friend for podcasting, voice-over work and video production. It offers more than what your average stereo track can over USB and comes with additional I/O and tactile control that feels as natural as sipping tea on a Sunday morning. With its warm and clean preamps and accurate converters, this hybrid USB mixer creates a sound as satisfying as biting into a perfectly toasted piece of bread. This mixer is not just slightly better; it's like upgrading from economy to first class!

A Pocket-Sized Powerhouse

For home studio use, the Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX is worth its weight in gold (and then some). While lacking some high-end features such as individual channel mutes and channel faders, these are minor inconveniences in comparison to everything else this compact mixer has to offer. However, just like how some people prefer cats over dogs, not everyone will find this mixer their cup of tea. Some users have reported poor sound quality, but remember that audio quality can be as subjective as your coffee preferences.

A Challenger Approaches: Behringer XR18

The Behringer XR18 is a digital mixer that doesn't play by the rules. This mixing console comes with a feature set that would make other mixers in its price range blush. The audio quality is top-notch, and it provides an extensive range of control options suitable for live sound or studio recording. However, the Behringer XR18 is not without its flaws. It lacks the ability to do time-alignment and its built-in Wi-Fi can be as reliable as a chocolate teapot in live situations. There's also a bit of a learning curve when switching between software interfaces on different platforms.

Hardware and Software: A Tug of War

On the hardware side, the Behringer XR18 feels solid and well-built – perfect for regular gigging and intense studio sessions. On the software side, it offers comprehensive control over the unit with some platform-specific quirks. Despite these minor drawbacks, if you're looking for a feature-rich digital mixer that won't cost you an arm and a leg, then the Behringer XR18 might just be your golden ticket.

And The Winner Is…

When comparing these two heavyweights in the world of multi-channel mixers, my heart (and ears) settle on one clear winner: Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX. Why, you ask? It's simple – the ZEDi-10FX offers a superior sound quality, versatility, and user-friendly nature that makes it stand out. While the Behringer XR18 does pack a punch with its extensive feature set and robust software, it falls short in a few areas, such as Wi-Fi reliability and the absence of time-alignment. In conclusion, if you're after a reliable audio mixer that provides excellent sound quality for various applications from podcasting to live sound production, the Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX is your go-to mixer. It's a perfect blend of functionality, versatility, and value for money. And that's music to my ears!