Behringer X Air XR12 Vs. Behringer Xenyx X1204USB: 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 X Air XR12 vs. Behringer Xenyx X1204USB.

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 X Air XR12 and Behringer Xenyx X1204USB. 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 X Air XR12

From Basic to Advanced: A User's Transition

I think the Behringer XR12 is a game-changer, especially for those who are transitioning from basic mixers like the Behringer Q802USB to a more advanced digital format. There's definitely a learning curve, but plenty of online tutorials and resources help smooth the transition.

Device Compatibility and App Integration

In my experience, the XR12's compatibility with various platforms is a huge plus. The XAIR app works seamlessly on both Linux and Android, which I find super convenient. It's great to have versatile control options across different devices.

Enhanced Sound Quality and Features

One aspect I absolutely love about the XR12 is the superior sound quality. The built-in stereo effects, gates, compression, and EQ significantly enhance the audio output. I think the MIDAS Preamp contributes a lot to this improvement. Also, the USB recording capability is top-notch, perfect for rehearsals or live performance reviews.

Advanced Sound Routing

The XR12's sound routing capabilities are seriously impressive. It allows for individualized mixes for each band member, which is a big deal in group settings. The ability to create these mixes through buses and aux channels without affecting the main mix is pretty cool. Plus, the mobile app integration for on-the-fly mixing adds a layer of convenience.

Choosing the Right Model: XR12 vs. XR16

When considering the XR12, I think it's important to assess your specific needs. While the XR12 offers a lot, the XR16 might be a better fit for those needing more flexibility, especially with monitor mixes, despite the higher cost.

Final Assessment

Overall, I'd say the Behringer XR12 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to step up their audio game. The combination of superior sound quality, flexible routing options, and cross-platform compatibility makes it a valuable asset in both live and studio settings.

Behringer Xenyx X1204USB

I want to focus on the things the sales page doesn't tell you. And that's the good, bad, and the ugly.

Behringer Xenyx X1204USB Mixer with USB and Effects

I test and play around with mixer's all day, and the Xenyx is one of those ones you keep around. It's a good price for pretty much anybody to get their hands on, and if you're grabbing one second hand, you're all set.

So, I've know this mixer for seven years, and on some personal projects, I'm still using it almost 24/7. Some faders crackle, and a few buttons need a nudge now and then, but that's expected without regular maintenance.

Honestly, it's been a flawless experience for my needs, mainly as an XLR to USB interface.

The USB Interface

Good, But With Limitations

The USB input's a bit tricky; it lacks volume control and EQ adjustments. And if you're using the USB out, you're stuck with just 44.1K or 48K output, based on the main bus. This can be a bit limiting if you need to use both the main mix out and the USB output simultaneously.

Behringer Xenyx X1204USB Review 1 — *Click to view*

Board Features: Hits and Misses

Quality Preamps with a Warm Touch ✅🔥

The preamps are surprisingly good, though they add a warm coloration to the audio. So that's either a positive or negative depending on your preference.

The built-in compressors and EQ are decent for the price.

The AUX channel's integration with the master mix, however, can be a bit limiting.

The FX channel, with its variety of sound effects, is a nice touch.

Behringer Xenyx X1204USB — *Click to view*

Final Verdict: Great Value, But Not Without Flaws

For its price, this board is a fantastic deal. No doubt about it!

It's not perfect, though – the USB interface could be more versatile, and the preamps, while good, have their quirks.

But considering the price, it's a solid choice for a range of audio needs, from small-scale live events to home studios.

Find The Best Deal On The X1204USB

View More Specs

Head 2 Head: Behringer X Air XR12 or Behringer Xenyx X1204USB

The Behringer X Air XR12: A Digital Powerhouse

The Behringer X Air XR12 is like the cool kid on the block who's got all the latest gadgets. It's a digital mixer that's perfect for those making the leap from a basic analog mixer, like the Behringer Q802USB, to something with a bit more digital muscle. Sure, there's a learning curve but remember when you couldn't even ride a bike? Now look at you! The online tutorials and resources are your training wheels here.

Universally Compatible and App Savvy

The XR12 plays nice with all devices – it doesn't matter if you're team Linux or team Android. Its seamless integration with the XAIR app gives you versatile control options across different devices. It's like having a universal remote for your audio mixer.

A Symphony of Sound Quality and Features

The sound quality coming out of this bad boy is top-tier – it's like going from listening to music on your phone speaker to experiencing it in concert. The built-in stereo effects, gates, compression, and EQ play together harmoniously to significantly enhance your audio output. Plus, its USB recording interface is perfect for capturing those moments of magic during rehearsals or live performances.

A Sound Routing Masterclass

If sound routing was an art form, then the XR12 would be Picasso. Its ability to create individualized mixes for each band member without affecting the main mix is nothing short of genius. Throw in mobile app integration for on-the-fly mixing and you've got yourself some serious studio equipment.

Pick Your Player: XR12 vs. XR16

Choosing between the XR12 and XR16 feels like picking between two mouth-watering desserts. The XR12 offers plenty, but if you need more flexibility, especially with monitor mixes, then the XR16 might be worth the extra dough.

A Journey with the Behringer Xenyx X1204USB

The Behringer Xenyx X1204USB is like that reliable old car you just can't part ways with. I've had mine for seven years and she's still running strong. Sure, a few faders crackle and a few buttons need a firm press now and then, but aren't we all a bit creaky in our old age?

Windows 7 Users Beware

Installing the Behringer drivers for Windows 7 was about as enjoyable as stepping on Legos. Trust me, stick with the default drivers – they're more reliable and offer more options.

The USB Interface: Good but Limited

The USB interface on the X1204USB has its limitations – volume control and EQ adjustments aren't its strong suit. If you're using the USB out, you're stuck with just 44.1K or 48K output based on your main mix. This can be limiting if you're trying to juggle both live sound mixing and USB output simultaneously.

The Tale of Two Boards

The preamps are surprisingly good on this baby, even though they add a warm coloration to your audio. The built-in compressors and EQ provide decent value for your buck, but the integration of AUX channel with master mix could use some work.

The Great Debate: XR12 vs X1204USB

It's time to pick a winner in this clash of titans. And while both contenders have thrown some serious punches, I'm going to have to give it to… *drumroll*… the Behringer X Air XR12! Sure, the X1204USB is a trusty steed with years of reliable service, but in this modern age of digital mixers, the XR12 just brings more to the table. It's like comparing a flip phone to a smartphone – both can make calls, but one can also stream movies, take high-quality photos and let you scroll through social media for hours. The superior sound quality, flexible routing options and cross-platform compatibility of the XR12 make it a clear winner in this face-off. So if you're looking to step up your audio game, the XR12 is ready to play ball.