Behringer X Air XR12 Vs. Rode Rodecaster Pro II: Head To Head Comparison - READ BEFORE YOU BUY!!

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. Rode Rodecaster Pro II.

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 Rode Rodecaster Pro II. 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.

Rode Rodecaster Pro II

Real Talk: The RØDECaster Pro II Experience

High Expectations Met

When I first got my hands on the RØDECaster Pro, I was expecting something phenomenal. The multi-track recording with polywav files, one-button Bluetooth, USB in/out with mix-minus, and soundFX banks – it seemed like a complete package. It's like having your own audio production studio.

Initial Shortcomings

Lacking EQ Adjustments

However, it wasn't all perfect. The lack of basic three-frequency EQ control was a letdown. I thought the beautiful touchscreen would be perfect for this, but no luck. Not having these fundamental adjustments was a bit of a disappointment, especially considering its user-friendly design.

Microphone Compatibility

Not Just for Rode Mics

I don’t use a Rode mic – I’ve got Heil PR40s, which sound incredible with a Mackie mixer. So without onboard EQ, I had to tweak things in post-production. It’s a workaround, but not ideal. I’m curious to see how a Rode mic would fare, given their tuned presets.

Recommendation

Still Worth It?

Would I recommend the Rodecaster Pro? Absolutely. Despite some quirks, its potential is undeniable. It's a bit frustrating that I have to spend more time in post, which I hoped to avoid. But, I'm planning to test it with a Rode mic eventually.

Update: After Extended Use

Impressed by the Updates

After several months of use and with the release of the new software update, my view has shifted. The update addressed my concerns, adding controls for the onboard compressor, noise gate, de-esser, and more. It’s become a reliable workhorse for my podcast.

Power and USB Issues

A Frustrating Experience

However, it’s not all smooth sailing. There were power and USB issues that were quite troublesome. At one point, I couldn’t get the USB 1 to connect to anything, which was incredibly frustrating. This kind of issue is not what you expect from a premium product.

Final Thoughts

Great, But With Caveats

Overall, the RØDECaster Pro II is a powerful tool, but it comes with its own set of challenges. It's packed with features that any podcaster or content creator would love, but be prepared for some potential hiccups along the way.

Head 2 Head: Behringer X Air XR12 or Rode Rodecaster Pro II

Behringer X Air XR12: A Game-Changer in the Audio World

First off, let's talk about the Behringer X Air XR12. This digital mixer is a revolution for those who are transitioning from basic audio mixers to a more advanced interface. It might feel like you're trying to decipher alien technology at first, but with a plethora of online tutorials, you'll soon be mixing like a pro. One aspect where the Behringer XR12 outshines other audio mixers is its compatibility with various platforms. The integration with Linux and Android via the XAIR app is smoother than butter on hot toast, giving you versatile control options across different devices. It’s like having your recording studio gear in your pocket. Sound quality? Oh boy, prepare to be blown away! The soundboard offers superior audio output thanks to built-in stereo effects, gates, compression and EQ. The MIDAS Preamp sprinkles some extra magic on this already enchanting mix. Plus, its USB recording capability makes it a perfect piece of podcasting equipment for live performance reviews or rehearsals.

Advanced Sound Routing: A Symphony in Your Hands

The audio mixing console also stands out for its advanced sound routing capabilities. Providing individual mixes for each band member feels like conducting an orchestra – everyone can play their own tune without interfering with the harmony of the main mix. And with mobile app integration for on-the-fly adjustments? Absolutely brilliant! However, while the XR12 offers plenty of firepower, if you need more flexibility (especially for monitor mixes), you may want to consider its bigger sibling – the XR16. But remember this – more power usually means less money in your wallet.

Rode Rodecaster Pro II: A Full-Fledged Audio Production Studio

Now let's shift gears and talk about the Rode Rodecaster Pro II. This audio interface promises to be a complete package, and it doesn't disappoint. It’s like having your own audio production studio at your fingertips. However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. The lack of basic three-frequency EQ control is like showing up to a party without any snacks – a letdown. You'd think that the beautiful touchscreen would be perfect for this, but unfortunately, no dice.

Microphone Compatibility: Room for Improvement

Another hiccup is microphone compatibility. If you're not using a Rode mic (I'm partial to my Heil PR40s), you might find yourself spending more time tweaking things in post-production than you'd like. It’s like being promised an easy-to-assemble furniture piece and then realizing the instructions are in an alien language. Despite these shortcomings, the Rodecaster Pro II still merits recommendation. Over time and with software updates, it has become a reliable workhorse for podcasting equipment, addressing previous issues with onboard compressor controls, noise gate and de-esser among others.

Power and USB Issues: A Thorn in the Side

However, the road isn't always smooth with this live sound equipment – there have been power and USB issues that can make you want to pull your hair out. At one point, I couldn’t get the USB 1 to connect to anything – quite frustrating for a premium product. So here we are at the crossroads – two fantastic pieces of recording studio gear, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. But alas! There can only be one winner.

Drumroll Please…

And the winner is…Behringer X Air XR12! The superior sound quality, flexible routing options, and cross-platform compatibility give it the edge over the Rodecaster Pro II. Add to that the MIDAS Preamp and USB recording capability, and it becomes a valuable asset for both live and studio settings. The Behringer XR12 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to up their audio game without breaking the bank. So if you're in the market for an audio mixer that will give you bang for your buck, look no further than this digital mixer.