Behringer Wing Vs. Zoom LiveTrak L 12: 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. Zoom LiveTrak L 12.

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 Zoom LiveTrak L 12. 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.

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.

Zoom LiveTrak L-12

Zoom LiveTrak L-12: A Multifaceted Digital Mixer

Practical Design, Impressive Functionality

After spending three months with the Zoom LiveTrak L-12, I've found it to be an invaluable tool for a musician, offering versatility in numerous situations. Its compact size belies its powerful capabilities, making it ideal for various settings from practice to live performances.

Rehearsal and Practice Sessions Elevated

Integrated Metronome and Recording Ease

The L-12 excels in practice environments. Its ability to connect multiple devices, such as a computer via USB for playing along with Spotify, is highly convenient. The built-in metronome and easy recording to SD cards are perfect for pinpointing and working on challenging sections. The recording feature is intuitive, simply arm the desired tracks, and you're set.

Rehearsal Powerhouse

Individual Monitoring and Built-in Effects

In low-volume rehearsals, particularly where everyone uses headphones, the L-12 is a game-changer. With five independent aux sends to 1/4″ headphone jacks, it offers personalized monitoring for each musician. The built-in effects, like reverb for vocals, add to the mix's quality.

Writing and Recording Made Simple

Instant Recording and DAW Integration

Capturing spontaneous musical ideas is effortless with the L-12. Its standalone recording capability, combined with the metronome, allows for quickly laying down initial ideas and building upon them. The seamless integration with DAWs for further editing is a significant advantage.

Live Performances and Mixing

Flexible Output Options for Shows

Though more suited as a sub-mixer, the L-12 can handle a full show, especially when using in-ear monitors. It offers up to five different mixes for in-ear monitoring and has both XLR and balanced 1/4″ outputs for speakers. Recording live shows for later mixing is a breeze.

Adaptable for Socially Distanced Rehearsals

Effective for Diverse Rehearsal Setups

The current pandemic has made music rehearsals challenging, but the L-12 adapts well to different scenarios. Whether it's playing in separate rooms or outdoors, it allows for effective mic setups and clear monitoring of all instruments. The ability to quickly transfer recordings to a DAW like Logic Pro X is highly convenient.

Areas for Improvement

Minor Setbacks, But Still a Top Choice

Despite its many strengths, the L-12 has a few areas that could be improved:
1. The compression always writes to the recording and isn’t of the highest quality.
2. The preamps are adequate but not exceptional.
3. The file naming system, while functional, can be cumbersome to navigate.
4. The lack of motorized faders means manual adjustments are necessary when switching mixes.
5. There's no option for individual stereo or mono pairs for monitor outputs in live situations.
Despite these minor issues, the Zoom LiveTrak L-12 stands out for its versatility and comprehensive features at its price point.

Final Verdict

A Robust, Versatile Mixer for Various Needs

Concluding, the Zoom LiveTrak L-12 is an excellent choice for musicians and sound engineers looking for a versatile, all-in-one mixer and recorder. Its strengths in various environments, from studio to stage, make it a valuable asset. While it has some limitations, its advantages far outweigh them, making it a highly recommended tool in the music and recording industry.

Head 2 Head: Behringer Wing or Zoom LiveTrak L 12

Behringer Wing: The Future has Landed

Transitioning from an analog mixer like the Behringer Xenyx 2442 to the Behringer Wing feels like trading in a bicycle for a spaceship. This digital mixer tosses masking tape and markers into the dustbin of audio history, thanks to its digital scribble strip. With the ability to save settings on a USB stick, you can practically hear the collective sigh of relief from sound engineers everywhere. Gone are the days of panicking over messed-up settings – just reboot and you're back in business.

Connectivity and Remote Control

The Behringer Wing pairs well with the Behringer SD16 stagebox, bringing your audio setup into the 21st century. With wifi control capability, this audio interface is perfect for bands wanting to make demos or medium-sized churches looking to upgrade their live sound mixer game. The USB interface for DAW integration is slicker than a greased eel but if you're serious about multi-track recording, consider getting an X-Live SD expansion card. It's an extra expense but being able to record all 32 channels simultaneously is invaluable for fine-tuning mixes.

Learning Curve and User Experience

Admittedly, there's a learning curve steeper than Everest if digital mixers are new to you. But trust me when I say that it's worth every sweaty step of that climb. The Behringer Wing's flexibility in routing, multiple outputs as well as sound shaping tools like EQ, gates, and compressors are incredible.

The Zoom LiveTrak L-12: Compact Yet Powerful

Moving on to the Zoom LiveTrak L-12, it's a recording console that punches above its weight class. Despite its compact size, it packs a wallop when it comes to functionality.

Rehearsal and Practice Sessions Elevated

The built-in metronome and easy recording to SD cards make this audio production equipment ideal for practice sessions. It even allows you to connect a computer via USB for playing along with Spotify or other music streaming services.

Live Performances and Mixing

If you're using in-ear monitors, the L-12 can handle a full show. It offers up to five different mixes for in-ear monitoring and both XLR and balanced 1/4″ outputs for speakers. Recording live shows is as easy as pie with this portable mixer.

The Showdown: Behringer Wing vs Zoom LiveTrak L-12

Both the Behringer Wing and Zoom LiveTrak L-12 offer impressive features in their respective price ranges. However, after taking a close look at their specs and performance, only one can be declared the winner.

And the winner is…Behringer Wing.

Why does it come out on top? Firstly, its connectivity options are more extensive than those of the L-12. Secondly, the ability to save settings on a USB stick is an absolute game-changer in terms of user experience. Lastly, when it comes to studio recording or live performances, the Wing offers greater flexibility with its routing options and sound shaping tools. While there's a learning curve to overcome with the Wing, it's a one-time investment that pays off in spades. The Zoom LiveTrak L-12 is an excellent piece of equipment, no doubt about it. However, when it comes to delivering professional-grade features and value for money, the Behringer Wing soars high above its competition.

So whether you're running a church service, captaining a small band, or piloting your own home studio recording ship, the Behringer Wing is your trusty co-pilot that won't let you down.