Behringer X Air XR12 Vs. Zoom LiveTrak L 12: 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. 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 X Air XR12 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 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.

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 X Air XR12 or Zoom LiveTrak L 12

Behringer X Air XR12: A Digital Mixer That's a Game Changer

If you're thinking of stepping up your audio game, the Behringer X Air XR12 is a serious contender. Transitioning from basic mixers like the Behringer Q802USB? This bad boy will make it smooth as butter, thanks to abundant online tutorials and resources.

Device Compatibility and App Integration

The XR12 stands out with its compatibility across various platforms—a feature music enthusiasts will absolutely love. The XAIR app on Linux and Android works like a charm, making it as versatile as your grandma's secret recipe.

Enhanced Sound Quality and Features

With the XR12, you'll feel like you've hit an audio jackpot. This digital mixer boasts superior sound quality, courtesy of inbuilt stereo effects, gates, compression, and EQ. And let's not forget the MIDAS Preamp—it's like the secret sauce that enhances every bit of audio output. Plus, its USB recording capability makes it perfect for live sound mixer applications or studio recording equipment.

Advanced Sound Routing

The Behringer XR12 doesn't just stop at providing excellent sound; it lets you control how that sound is routed too! Individualized mixes for each band member? Check. Creating these mixes through buses and aux channels without messing with the main mix? Double-check. And with mobile app integration for on-the-fly mixing, it's just as portable as any other portable mixer out there.

Choosing the Right Model: XR12 vs. XR16

Before you jump in headfirst into the world of Behringer, make sure to assess your specific needs. While the XR12 is packed with features, the XR16 might be a better fit if you need more flexibility, especially when it comes to monitor mixes. Yes, it's a tad bit pricier, but hey, sometimes you've got to spend money to make money!

Zoom LiveTrak L-12: A Multifaceted Digital Mixer

Moving on to the Zoom LiveTrak L-12—this little gem has impressed me in its three-month tenure in my studio. Don't let its compact size fool you; this thing packs a punch and is ideal as an audio mixer and multi-track recorder.

Rehearsal and Practice Sessions Elevated

This recording console shines brightly when it comes to practice sessions. Connect multiple devices like your computer via USB for playing along with Spotify or use the built-in metronome for nailing those rhythm sections. The intuitive recording feature is as easy as pie—just arm the tracks you want and voila!

Individual Monitoring and Built-in Effects

The L-12 changes the game in low-volume rehearsals where everyone uses headphones. Its five independent aux sends offer personalized monitoring for each musician. And with built-in effects like reverb for vocals, it takes sound quality up several notches.

Instant Recording and DAW Integration

This USB audio interface makes capturing spontaneous musical ideas effortless. Its standalone recording capability combined with the metronome allows for quickly laying down initial ideas and building upon them. Plus, its seamless integration with DAWs makes further editing a walk in the park.

Flexible Output Options for Shows

The L-12 can handle a full show despite being more suited as a sub-mixer. 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? Piece of cake.

Effective for Diverse Rehearsal Setups

The Zoom LiveTrak L-12 adapts well to the challenges presented by COVID-19 restrictions. Whether you're playing in separate rooms or outdoors, it allows for effective mic setups and clear monitoring of all instruments. Plus, the ability to quickly transfer recordings to a DAW like Logic Pro X is pretty darn convenient.

Minor Setbacks, But Still a Top Choice

Like everything else in life, the L-12 isn't perfect: 1. The compression always writes to the recording and could be better. 2. Its preamps are adequate but not exceptional. 3. The file naming system can be cumbersome. 4. Manual adjustments are necessary when switching mixes due to the lack of motorized faders. 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 with its versatility and comprehensive features at its price point.

Final Verdict

After an intense face-off between these two digital mixers, it's time to crown a winner…and Zoom LiveTrak L-12 takes the cake! While both mixers offer impressive features, the L-12 edges out with its versatility in various environments—from studio recording equipment to live sound mixer—and robust capabilities as an audio mixer and multi-track recorder. Even though it has minor limitations, its strengths far outweigh them, making it a highly recommended tool for musicians and sound engineers. So, if you're on the hunt for a robust, versatile mixer, the Zoom LiveTrak L-12 is your go-to guy!