Behringer Wing Vs. Soundcraft Signature 22MTK: 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: Behringer Wing vs. Soundcraft Signature 22MTK.

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 Behringer Wing and Soundcraft Signature 22MTK. 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.

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.

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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.

Soundcraft Signature 22MTK

Everything The Product Sales Page Doesn't Tell You About The Soundcraft Signature 22MKT…

I tested the Soundcraft Signature 22MKT for a couple of weeks. I know, not that long, but it's been a revelation every day.

I work with a local piece band and they've been able to lay down live recordings in one take, capturing everything onto separate tracks in the DAW.

The ability to record up to 22 tracks simultaneously has been a game-changer in this respect.

Soundcraft Signature 22MTK 2
Click To View

Sound Quality and Support

Warm, Analog Sound ✅

The sound quality is exactly what we were looking for. The mixer provides a broad, balanced frequency range, delivering that warm, analog sound.

Plus, the onboard effects buses allow for creative mixing. Not to mention, the support from Soundcraft has been exceptional, both before and after purchase.

Who Is The 22MKT For? Not Beginners

Soundcraft Signature 22MTK
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Difficult Setup and Poor Documentation ❌

I always have to give the good, bad and the ugly… so here it is:

It's not all smooth sailing. Setting up the mixer with Windows was a nightmare, with no useful online resources.

The manual was no help either. It's a great board for those who know what they're doing and know their way around boards, but I can definitely see how for a beginner, it would be a steep and frustrating learning curve.

Early Impressions ✅

Impressive Functionality

Soundcraft Signature 22MTK 3
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In the early days of testing out the 22MTK, I was impressed with its routing capabilities, especially to outboard gear.

The onboard Lexicon effects are a bonus, and the ability to use DAW plugins during live play is a huge plus. However, the lack of an on/off switch and inserts is a bit puzzling.

Channel Issues and Sturdiness

Some Quality Concerns

Unfortunately, I soon ran into issues with channel one having low gain and a hum. This was unexpected, especially considering the mixer hadn't seen much use.

While the mixer is generally sturdy, these issues do raise some concerns about its long-term reliability.

Perfect for Specific Needs

Ideal for Unique Applications

This mixer was perfect for running a mic through guitar pedals. Its small footprint and built-in effects make it versatile for creating unique sounds. It's a solid choice for those needing a compact mixer with good functionality.

Soundcraft 12MTK: A Better Choice For Beginners

Soundcraft Signature 22MKT record up to 22 tracks simultaneously
Click To View

I know I have kind of shifted between the 12 and the 22 and thats because they are pretty much the same thing, you either need the extra channels (22MTK) or oyu don't (12MTK).

But the like its big bro, the Soundcraft 12MTK offers good sound quality and is fairly lightweight. The preamps are notable, as is the mid-range EQ. However, there are significant design flaws, like the problematic gain ratio and the lack of an on/off switch, which can be frustrating. It's a good mixer overall but be prepared for some quirks.

Check Out The Soundcraft Signature 22MKT
View The 12MTK

Head 2 Head: Behringer Wing or Soundcraft Signature 22MTK

Stepping into the Future with the Behringer Wing

I gotta tell you, shifting from an analog mixer to a digital mixer like the Behringer Wing feels like time traveling straight into a sci-fi movie. It's a whole different ballgame. The digital scribble strip is practically shouting “so long” to masking tape and markers, while storing settings on a USB stick is like having your own personal safety net – no more cold sweats over accidental setting changes.

Connectivity and Remote Control

This console pairs seamlessly with the Behringer SD16 stagebox, making it perfect for venues of various sizes (our medium-sized church, for example). The wifi control capability? An absolute life saver! Especially when it comes to live sound mixing or bands wanting to cut demos without selling their kidneys.

Recording and Expansion Options

The USB interface for DAW integration is slicker than a greased weasel. But if multi-track recording is your thing, I'd suggest getting the X-Live SD expansion card. Yes, it dents your wallet slightly more, but being able to record all 32 channels simultaneously for virtual soundchecks? Priceless!

A Learning Curve Worth Climbing

Sure, there's a learning curve steeper than San Francisco's Lombard street. But once you get past that, this piece of recording equipment offers unmatched control and convenience. Its flexibility in routing, multiple outputs and sound shaping tools are nothing short of mind-bending.

Sturdy Build and Unexpected Portability

Despite its capabilities, this console doesn't weigh as much as you'd expect. Whether you're a roadie or have a permanent setup, it's perfect. Just remember to get a good flight case or Decksaver cover for protection – because we all know, accidents happen.

Adventures with the Soundcraft Signature 22MKT

Creative Capabilities that Excite

The Soundcraft Signature 22MKT is like a box of chocolates – every day brings a new surprise. With my band, we've been able to capture live recordings in one take, recording up to 22 tracks simultaneously. It's like having our own private studio!

Sound Quality and Support

Talk about studio-quality sound! This analog mixer provides a broad frequency range that delivers that warm, fuzzy feeling of analog sound. And the cherry on top? The onboard effects buses and exceptional support from Soundcraft.

The Steep Learning Curve of the 22MTK

A Challenging Setup for Beginners

Setting up this audio interface with Windows is akin to solving a Rubik's cube blindfolded – and the manual isn't much help either. For those starting out in the world of audio mixing, be prepared for some hair-pulling moments.

Impressive Functionality but Some Quality Concerns

The 22MTK impresses with its routing capabilities and onboard Lexicon effects. However, there are some puzzling omissions like an on/off switch and inserts. Not to mention some unexpected issues with channel one which raises questions about its long-term reliability.

In conclusion, I'm giving my vote to the Behringer Wing. While the Soundcraft Signature 22MKT delivers on creative capabilities and sound quality, the flexibility, learning experience, and connectivity of the Behringer Wing make it a clear winner. It's an absolute beast that offers outstanding value for its price and is perfect for anyone ranging from church services to small bands or home studios. The future, ladies and gentlemen, is digital.