Allen & Heath ZEDi 10FX Vs. Tascam DP 32SD: 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 32SD.

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 32SD. 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

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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-32SD Digital Portastudio

Now the Tascam DP-32SD, let me draw some comparisons to its cousin, the DP-24SD, and delve into what makes it stand out. The DP-32SD steps up the game with its enhanced preamps and 32-track recording capability, minus the hard drive noise, since it runs on an SDHC card.

Key Features:

First off, think of the DP-32SD as a 20-track recorder with 8 mono tracks and 12 additional stereo or mono tracks. The absence of MIDI and S/PDIF inputs (found in its predecessor, the Tascam 2488Neo) might limit some, but it's not a deal-breaker for those focused on analog inputs. Its punch-in and out functions are tight, and the layout of the menu and LED buttons has been thoughtfully improved from the Neo model.

Tascam DP 32SD Review

Recording Quality

The recording quality is a massive win for the DP-32SD. Users rave about the stellar job it does, especially in multi-musician setups. With its ability to record at 24bit 48kHz without clicks, pops, or stutters, it’s a reliable choice for those seeking to avoid the complexities of a DAW.

Usability and Workflow

In terms of workflow, this machine is a powerhouse. For those who prefer to record up to 8 tracks simultaneously without a PC or MAC and don’t need MIDI sync, the DP-32SD is your go-to. It’s great for live band recordings too, being easily portable and capable of handling numerous simultaneous inputs.

Learning Curve

There’s a learning curve, especially if you're transitioning from a simpler recorder or a different brand. However, with resources like YouTube tutorials, you can get up to speed relatively quickly.

Build Quality

The build quality of the DP-32SD is impressive. It feels heavy and sturdy, indicative of a machine built to last. Though some knobs might feel a bit flimsy, this doesn’t detract from the overall solid construction of the unit.

Integration with DAW

While it's primarily a standalone recorder, the ease of transferring files to a DAW for further editing and mixing is a major plus. It's an excellent solution for those looking to blend analog recording with digital editing.

Head 2 Head: Allen & Heath ZEDi 10FX or Tascam DP 32SD

Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX: A Sonic Maestro


This digital mixer is a beast when it comes to delivering crisp and clear sound. It's a USB recording interface that outperforms the Behringer Xenyx 302USB by leaps and bounds. With its 24-bit audio support, this audio mixer enhances your conference calls, ensuring you can clearly make out every spoken word.

A Versatile Player in the Studio Gear Market


The Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX is as versatile as they come, more than justifying its inclusion in any list of top-notch home studio equipment. Whether you're into podcasting, voice-over work or video production, this recording console fits right into your workflow. Plus, with preamps that deliver warm and clean sound, it's like having your personal sound card.

Value for Money? Absolutely!


If you're looking for an audio interface that offers bang for your buck, look no further. This studio gear might not have channel mutes or faders but honestly, who needs those in a home studio setting anyway? It's perfect for podcasting, streaming or even small live setups.

Slightly Quirky but Still Admirable


Despite some quirks with its USB interface to iOS devices and confusing routing of USB audio output into the FX channel, the ZEDi-10FX remains a solid choice for any home studio equipment. The preamps and controls are top-notch and connectivity options are plentiful.

A Workhorse in Disguise


Don't let its humble looks fool you; the ZEDi-10FX is a versatile audio mixer that's perfect for podcasts and music. The routing options are flexible enough to cater to various audio capture settings. It might not win any beauty contests, but it sure does a stellar job where it counts.

Sound Quality: A Mixed Bag


While some users have reported less than satisfactory sound quality, this just serves as a reminder that audio gear is subjective. The ZEDi-10FX still delivers excellent sound quality for most users.

Compact and High-Quality


This compact mixer comes with an integrated USB audio interface, making it ideal for teleconferencing applications, podcasting, and webcast streaming. With its low noise and good preamps, the ZEDi-10FX punches above its weight in terms of performance.

Tascam DP-32SD: An Analog Powerhouse


This workhorse can handle 20-track recording with ease, thanks to its enhanced preamps and 32-track recording capability. It doesn't have MIDI or S/PDIF inputs like its predecessor but makes up for it in other areas – such as superb recording quality and improved menu layout.

Top-Tier Recording Quality


With the ability to record at 24bit 48kHz without any hiccups, the DP-32SD is perfect for anyone looking to avoid the complexities of a DAW. It's particularly useful in multi-musician setups where multiple inputs are necessary.

A Workflow Beast


If you're looking for a no-nonsense machine that lets you record up to 8 tracks simultaneously without needing a PC or MAC, this is it. It's also great for live band recordings thanks to its portability and capability to handle multiple inputs.

Learning Curve? What Learning Curve?


While there is a learning curve involved, plenty of online resources can help you master this machine in no time. Hence, the DP-32SD is perfect for those transitioning from simpler recorders or a different brand.

Built Like a Tank


The DP-32SD is sturdy and heavy, signaling a machine built to last. Some knobs might feel flimsy, but these minor issues don't detract from the overall solid construction of this recording console.

DAW Integration: A Major Plus


While primarily a standalone recorder, the DP-32SD excels at transferring files to a DAW for further editing and mixing. It's an excellent solution for those looking to blend analog recording with digital editing.

So who's the winner here? After close scrutiny, I crown the Allen & Heath ZEDi 10FX as the clear winner. Its exceptional sound quality, user-friendly design, versatility and value for money put it ahead of not just the Tascam DP-32SD but also other mixers in its category. Although it has some quirks with its USB interface and audio routing, these are minor issues when compared to its overall performance. Whether you're setting up your home studio or looking for reliable gear for professional use, this audio mixer deserves your consideration.