Behringer X Air XR12 Vs. Soundcraft Signature 22MTK: 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. 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 X Air XR12 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 X Air XR12

From Basic to Advanced: A User's Transition

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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.

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
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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
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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 X Air XR12 or Soundcraft Signature 22MTK

The Behringer XR12: A Digital Mixer with a Punch

Transitioning from Basic to Advanced

Stepping up from an entry-level mixer like the Behringer Q802USB to a digital format can be quite the leap. However, the Behringer X Air XR12 makes this jump less daunting. The learning curve is real, but it's far from insurmountable with plenty of online tutorials and resources at your disposal.

Device Compatibility and App Integration

The XR12’s compatibility with various platforms is a massive perk. With the XAIR app running smoothly on both Linux and Android, you can control your live sound from different devices. It's like having a recording console in your pocket!

Enhanced Sound Quality and Features

The XR12 doesn't just walk the talk; it sings it! The audio interface boasts superior sound quality, thanks to the built-in stereo effects, gates, compression, and EQ. Oh, did I mention the MIDAS Preamp? It's like adding an extra layer of audio goodness. Plus, USB recording capability for those impromptu jam sessions or live performances – seriously top-notch.

Advanced Sound Routing

If you've ever been in a band (or even just watched one), you know how critical individual mixes are. The XR12 allows for this level of personalization without disturbing the main mix – all via buses and aux channels. Add in mobile app integration for on-the-fly mixing? That's what I call studio equipment convenience.

Picking Your Poison: XR12 vs. XR16

Playing eeny-meeny-miny-moe between the XR12 and XR16? Think about what you need. If you need more flexibility (especially with monitor mixes), the XR16 might be worth the extra dough. Otherwise, the XR12 packs quite a punch.

Soundcraft Signature 22MTK: The Analog Heavyweight

Outstanding Creative Capabilities

The Soundcraft Signature 22MTK, with its ability to record up to 22 tracks simultaneously, is a game-changer for any band. With this audio interface, you can capture your creative genius in one take and feed it directly into your PC-based recording software.

Warm, Analog Sound

When it comes to sound quality, the 22MTK delivers on all fronts. It provides a broad, balanced frequency range that exudes warm, analog sound. And if you're feeling extra creative, there are onboard effects buses at your disposal.

A Steep Learning Curve

The setup process for this mixer is not for the faint-hearted, especially if you're using Windows. And let's not even get started on the manual – it might as well be written in hieroglyphics! For beginners, brace yourself for a steep learning curve.

Impressive Functionality

Despite its initial challenges, there's no denying that the 22MTK comes with some impressive features – from routing capabilities to onboard Lexicon effects and DAW plugin compatibility during live play. But no on/off switch or inserts? Really Soundcraft?

Quality Concerns

Sadly though, my joyride with this mixer was dampened by channel one’s low gain and a persistent hum. It leaves me questioning the long-term reliability of this piece of studio equipment.

The Ideal Mixer for Unique Applications

Despite its quirks, the 22MTK is perfect for unique applications like running a mic through guitar pedals. Its compact size and built-in effects make it versatile enough for those who like to experiment with their sound.

Drumroll, Please…And the Winner Is…

After careful mixer comparison, the clear winner in my book is the Behringer X Air XR12. The Behringer offers superior sound quality, flexible routing options, and cross-platform compatibility that outperforms its counterpart. While the Soundcraft Signature 22MTK does offer some impressive features, its initial setup headaches and quality concerns tip the scales in favor of the XR12. So whether you're a budding musician or an experienced audio professional, this digital mixer could be your ticket to audio nirvana!