Allen & Heath ZEDi 10FX 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 ZEDi 10FX 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 ZEDi 10FX 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 ZEDi-10FX

Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX – Compact Hybrid Audio Mixer/4×4 USB Interface with 61 Studio Quality FX (AH-ZEDi-10FX),Black

Exceptional Sound Quality

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.

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 ZEDi 10FX or Tascam DP 24SD

Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX: The Audio Interface with a Punch

Let's talk about the Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX, a mixer and audio interface that's been turning heads in the recording equipment world. It brings analog warmth to digital clarity, making it a versatile choice for both studio recording and home studio setup. Its sound quality is exceptional – far superior to many of its competitors, like the Behringer Xenyx 302USB.

The noise floor on this baby is ridiculously low – we're talking whisper quiet – giving you a broader dynamic range. Plus, with 24-bit audio support, it's perfect for separating audio in echo-free conference calls or multitrack recording. And aside from the minor hiccup with the driver URL in the instructions (which was incorrect), setting up this mixing console was as smooth as silk.

The Jack of All Trades

What stands out about the ZEDi-10FX is its versatility. Whether you're podcasting, doing voice-over work, or handling video production, this mixer has got your back. The preamps are as warm as freshly baked bread and clean as whistle, while the converters deliver natural and accurate sounds.

USB connectivity? Check. Extra I/O and tactile control? Double-check! This hybrid USB mixer is an all-in-one solution that truly combines the best of both worlds.

Tascam DP-24SD Digital Portastudio: The Powerhouse of Recording

On to Tascam DP-24SD Digital Portastudio now – a beast when it comes to recording capabilities. This standalone unit lets you record up to 8 tracks simultaneously without needing a computer (goodbye laptop!). Once you're done, you can simply transfer the wave file from the SD card to your computer. It's a studio-grade setup that's perfect for home use or solo gigs.

Don't be intimidated by its sophistication – with a wealth of YouTube tutorials at your fingertips, mastering this mixer is a breeze. This machine is built like a tank and feels professional. Its full-color display and 24 tracks with assignable inputs make it an adaptable tool for various recording scenarios.

But Wait, There’s More!

The Tascam DP-24SD isn't just about recording; it also boasts an array of onboard effects for enhancing your sound quality. However, these dynamic/compressor effects are only available during live recording – not so great if you're looking to tweak existing WAV/track files.

And The Winner Is…

Drum roll, please… The winner of this face-off is the Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX! It's the clear winner here with its remarkable sound quality, versatility in various applications, and excellent USB connectivity.

While the Tascam DP-24SD is indeed a sturdy powerhouse with impressive recording capabilities, it falls short in terms of onboard effects flexibility and intuitive user interface. But remember, your choice ultimately depends on your needs – whether you prioritize analog vs digital or simplicity vs complexity.

So there you have it – our take on two exceptional pieces of recording equipment. Whichever one you choose, we hope it makes your audio dreams come true!