Behringer Wing Vs. Tascam Model 16: 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. Tascam Model 16.

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 Tascam Model 16. 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.

Tascam Model 16

I picked up one of these used to review for a few hundred. Here's the lowdown:

Initial Impressions

Right out of the box, the Tascam Model 16 felt like a good deal. Even though I got it ‘Used-Acceptable', it appeared brand new and functioned perfectly, saving me a significant amount. It's a testament to Tascam's build quality that a used unit can still perform like a fresh piece.

Usability and Versatility

The Model 16 is incredibly user-friendly. Its intuitive design blends low-tech ease with high-tech versatility. For someone who finds computer software a flow-breaker while recording, this Tascam is a dream. It allows recording directly to an internal SD card and then mixing on a computer, offering the best of both worlds.

Quality of Sound and Inputs

The sound quality is fantastic, making it perfect for both recording and live sound. However, I was initially taken aback by the “virtual” tracks 15/16 and the designated Bluetooth channel, limiting its effective input channels. It's a minor issue but something that should be clearer in the product description.

Recording and Playback Experience

When it comes to recording, the Model 16 shines. The process is straightforward, and playback quality is impressive. I especially appreciated the analog summing and HDDA preamps, which add a warm, rich tone to the recordings. The unit’s simplicity in recording makes it ideal for capturing live performances.

Software and Connectivity

A drawback is the mixer's limited software side. Unlike its smaller sibling, the Model 12, the 16 lacks MIDI connectivity, making time syncing with external gear a bit of a hassle. Additionally, the absence of FX return means using external effects requires sacrificing tracks, which can be limiting.

Overall Performance

Overall, the Tascam Model 16 is a solid performer with great sound and build quality. Its drawbacks are mostly in the finer details of software and input/output flexibility. It's a great piece of gear for those looking to record live performances or who want an easy-to-use interface for home recording. Despite its limitations, the Model 16 offers enough features and quality to justify its price.

Head 2 Head: Behringer Wing or Tascam Model 16

Stepping into the Future with Behringer Wing

As I fired up the Behringer Wing, I felt like I'd been catapulted into a futuristic world of digital mixing consoles. This audio interface is the big brother of the Behringer Xenyx 2442, and boy does it show. The scribble strip on this bad boy is a game changer – it's adios to masking tape and sharpies. And don't get me started on the ability to save settings on a USB stick – it's like having an undo button for your live sound system! Connectivity? Check! Remote Control? Double Check!

Pairing this digital mixer with the Behringer SD16 stagebox was like adding nitrous to a race car – suddenly our medium-sized church had a sound system that could rival a small recording studio. The Wi-Fi control feature is perfect for those (like me) who want to adjust the mix from anywhere in the room, although using a tablet rather than a phone does make life easier.

Recording Capabilities and Expansion Options

The USB interface for DAW integration is so smooth, it's like they were made for each other. But here's my top tip: if you're serious about multi-track recording, get your hands on that X-Live SD expansion card. Yes, it'll set you back some extra cash, but being able to record all 32 channels simultaneously makes it worth every penny.

Learning Curve? Steep but Worth It

I'm not going to lie; getting your head around this music production gear can be tough, especially if you're new to digital mixers. But the level of control and convenience it offers makes the learning curve worthwhile. The routing flexibility, multiple outputs, and sound shaping tools like EQ, gates, and compressors will blow your mind.

Build Quality and Portability

The Behringer Wing feels robust and reliable. Despite its capabilities, it's surprisingly portable – perfect for on-road gigs or permanent installations. If you're planning to travel with this beauty, I'd recommend investing in a sturdy flight case for protection. Final Verdict on Behringer Wing

This digital mixer is an absolute beast that punches way above its weight for the price tag. Whether you're running a church service, a small band, or even a home studio, the Behringer Wing has got your back.

Moving on to Tascam Model 16

Next up is the Tascam Model 16, another piece of impressive recording studio equipment. Straight out of the box, this mixing console feels like money well spent. Even though it was second-hand, it worked like a charm. User-Friendly Design with High-Tech Versatility

The Tascam Model 16 takes user-friendliness to a whole new level. Its design combines low-tech simplicity with high-tech versatility perfectly. It's an absolute dream for those who prefer to keep their flow while recording without any computer software interruptions.

Sound Quality and Inputs

The sound quality from this audio interface is top-notch – perfect for recording and live sound applications alike. However, I felt a bit let down by the “virtual” tracks 15/16 and the Bluetooth channel limiting useful inputs.

Recording and Playback Experience

When it comes to recording, this piece of music production gear shines. The process is straightforward, and the playback quality is impressive. The analog summing and HDDA preamps add a warm, rich tone to the recordings that's just delightful.

Software and Connectivity

The Tascam Model 16 falls a bit short in terms of software. It lacks MIDI connectivity which makes syncing with external gear tricky. Moreover, the absence of FX return means using external effects can eat up your tracks. Overall Thoughts on Tascam Model 16

Despite some limitations, the Tascam Model 16 is a solid performer with great sound and build quality. It's perfect for recording live performances or home recording without breaking a sweat. Now for the moment you've all been waiting for – who's taking home the gold medal? Drum roll please… The Winner: Behringer Wing!

In this head-to-head battle between two titans of music production gear, I have to award the victory to the Behringer Wing. Why? It simply offers more flexibility, better connectivity, superior recording capabilities, and a digital edge that leaves its competitor in the dust. So if you're looking for an audio interface that offers outstanding value for money without compromising on features or sound quality, you can't go wrong with Behringer Wing!