Behringer X32 vs Midas M32: Unveiling the Ultimate Battle for Live Sound Mixers

Today, I am reviewing two very popular mixers (or audio interfaces if you're posh :-p) the Behringer X32 vs Midas M32.

TL;DR: Key Differences Between Behringer X32 And Midas M32

• Price: The Behringer X32 is half the price of the Midas M32, making it a more budget-friendly option.
  
• Sound Quality: The Midas M32 preamps offer a warm, natural sound and perform better at high gain levels, while the Behringer X32 uses Midas-designed preamps but may lack the same richness and depth.
  
• Build Quality: Many users note that the Midas M32 offers superior construction compared to its Behringer counterpart.
  
• Faders: Some users prefer working with more faders available on the M-series consoles compared to fewer on corresponding X-series models.
  
• Compatibility with Additional Equipment: Both consoles can connect via AES50 to share audio sources such as S16 and S32 stage boxes; however, using an external DL stage box will give you an “M-series” sound from your X-series console if staying within that specific stage box system.
  
  

Feature	Behringer X32	Midas M32
Channels	40-input, 25-bus	40-input, 25-bus
Preamps	32 MIDAS-designed preamps	32 MIDAS PRO preamps
Faders	25 motorized faders	25 motorized faders
Effects	8 stereo effects engines	8 stereo effects engines
Display	7″ TFT color display	7″ TFT color display
USB Interface	32 x 32 channels	32 x 32 channels
Remote Control	Yes (via apps)	Yes (via apps)
Expansion Cards	1 slot for expansion cards	1 slot for expansion cards
Weight	45.4 lbs (20.6 kg)	50.7 lbs (23 kg)
Price	Lower price	Higher price

What You Need To Know About Behringer X32

First off, I must say that the Behringer X32 has been a game changer for me in terms of sound mixing.

As someone who needs to deal with large venues and complex setups often, this digital mixer has become my reliable partner.

In comparison to other mixers within its price range, it packs a punch when it comes to features and functionality

Channel count: With 40 input channels, 25 mix buses, and 16 XLR outputs, the Behringer X32 isn't lacking when it comes to handling multiple inputs and creating custom mixes for various zones or monitor setups.

This has made managing large ensembles on stage a breeze.

User-friendly interface: The interface is quite intuitive – with little time spent getting acquainted with the navigation.

The X32's bright 7-inch TFT screen, along with a plethora of customizable buttons and encoders per channel strip makes accessing important settings extremely easy during a show.

iPad compatibility: Being able to wirelessly control this mixer using an iPad has been a lifesaver on many occasions.

Walking around the venue while making adjustments can be incredibly helpful in achieving the best possible mix for your audience.

However, as much as I love my Behringer X32, there are some drawbacks that you should consider:

Durability: Some users have reported reliability issues over time which include faders becoming jittery or unresponsive buttons after several years of heavy use – though I haven't personally experienced these problems yet.

It is worth considering if you plan on putting your mixer through rigorous use on tours or in permanent installations where this could cause issues down the line.

Noise floor: While it's not terrible by any means, some have remarked about noticing a slightly higher noise floor compared to more expensive digital mixers when pushing the preamps or compressors hard.

This may not be a deal breaker for many, but if you're working in a situation where low noise is crucial, you might want to A/B this mixer with some higher-priced alternatives.

Learning curve: Although I mentioned that the interface is quite user-friendly, those who are new to digital mixers might find themselves overwhelmed with the wealth of features offered by the X32.

While Behringer has tried to make it as accessible as possible, there is still a learning curve involved.

All things considered, I think that for its price range, the Behringer X32 offers an incredible amount of functionality and flexibility for audio engineers and musicians alike.

While it may have a few drawbacks when compared to higher-end digital mixers, I feel that most users will be more than satisfied with what it has to offer – especially considering its price tag.

That being said, my recommendation would always be to try one out in person before making your decision, so you can get a true sense of whether it's the right fit for your needs and preferences!

What You Need To Know About Midas M32

Straight off the bat, let me tell you that the Midas M32 is a beast of a digital mixer.

With its 40 input channels, 25 mix buses, and some impressive processing power, it's no wonder many professionals in the live sound industry consider this console a game-changer.

But as with any piece of gear, there are always some pros and cons to consider before making an investment.

First up: The Good

The M32's build quality is seriously top-notch. Boasting a metal chassis and sturdy controls, this mixer is built like a tank! The motorized faders feel smooth and responsive to touch.

One of the standout features on the M32 has got to be its preamps. Midas' award-winning microphone preamps provide incredible sound clarity and warmth that truly make your mixes come alive.

The board's interface is intuitive and user-friendly. While navigating through different menus or adjusting parameters may take some getting used to for beginners, seasoned audio engineers will feel right at home with its layout.

The integrated X-LIVE card allows for seamless multi-track recording straight to USB or SD Card while also providing virtual soundcheck capabilities – pretty cool stuff!

Another thing I love about the Midas M32 is its compatibility with the Midas PRO Series digital snake system.

So if you're running sound in larger venues or need more onstage inputs/outputs, you can easily expand your setup without breaking a sweat (or your wallet).

But now for The Bad…

Unfortunately (and strangely), there are no scribble strips on this console.

As an audio engineer who often works with various acts in one night, having those handy LCD screens displaying channel names would've been extremely useful during fast-paced changeovers between bands.

One gripe I have about this board is that the USB connection is limited to 2-channel recording.

I mean, sure, you can use the X-LIVE card to record full multi-track sessions, but sometimes you just need a quick and easy stereo capture without needing to install additional hardware.

And then there's The Ugly…

No gear is flawless, and the M32 isn't exempt from this rule. Some users have reported minor software bugs and connectivity issues with their consoles.

While these problems have been few and far between in my experience, it's something to bear in mind when considering the long-term reliability of this mixer.

On that note: If you play an essential role in mission-critical live performances or broadcasts where zero downtime is acceptable, be aware that the Midas M32 – like many other digital mixers – runs on a single power supply.

This could leave your entire system vulnerable if the PSU should fail unexpectedly.

The Midas M32 represents great value-for-money for those looking for a professional-level live sound console with outstanding audio quality and processing capabilities.

It's not perfect (no gear ever really is), but at this price range and with these features on offer? I'd say it's well worth your consideration!

Who The Behringer X32 Is For & Why You Might Choose It Over The Midas M32

The Behringer X32 is a digital mixing console designed for a wide range of users, from professional sound engineers to musicians and aspiring audio technicians.

Its vast array of features, combined with its affordability, make it an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality mixer without breaking the bank.

Let's discuss why someone might choose the Behringer X32 over the Midas M32.

Reasons to Choose Behringer X32 Over Midas M32

While both mixers offer many similar functionalities, there are several factors that may lead someone to prefer the Behringer X32 over the Midas M32:

• Affordability: One of the primary reasons to choose the Behringer X32 is its price point. The X32 offers excellent value for money, with many of the same features as higher-priced mixers like the Midas M32 but at a more affordable price.
• User-Friendly Interface: The Behringer X32 boasts an intuitive interface that's easy to navigate and operate. This makes it an ideal choice for those who are new to digital mixing consoles or want a user-friendly experience without having to compromise on features.
• Versatile Connectivity Options: With 40 input channels, 25 mix buses, and various output options including AES50 digital networking connections, MIDI In/Out ports, P16-M personal monitoring system compatibility and more, the Behringer X32 provides users with diverse connectivity options catered to individual needs.
• Built-in Effects and Processing: The Behringer X32 comes equipped with a virtual FX rack, featuring 8 true-stereo multi-effects processors such as reverb, delay, chorus and more. This allows users to add professional-quality effects to their mixes without needing additional external hardware.
• Expandability: The X32 system can be expanded with various I/O cards and stage boxes like the S16 or S32, making it a suitable choice for growing setups or situations that require flexibility in terms of input and output configurations.
• Remote Control Capabilities: With the X32-Q app for smartphones and tablets, users can remotely control the mixer from anywhere in the venue. This convenience enables sound engineers to adjust levels while moving around the space or even stepping on stage to make necessary adjustments.

The Behringer X32 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an affordable digital mixing console packed with features that cater to both professionals and aspiring sound engineers.

While similar in many aspects to its higher-priced counterpart, the Midas M32, Behringer's offering stands out due to its user-friendly interface, versatile connectivity options, built-in effects processing capabilities, and expandability.

These factors combined make it a popular choice for those seeking a solid investment in their audio setup without breaking the bank.

Who The Midas M32 Is For & Why You Might Choose It Over The Behringer X32

The Midas M32 is designed for professional audio engineers, musicians, and live sound enthusiasts who demand high-end sound quality, robust build quality, intuitive design, and flexible routing capabilities.

The target users of this console include:

• Live sound engineers working in concert venues, theaters, houses of worship or other live events where exceptional audio quality is a priority.
• Recording studios that require a versatile mixing desk with a wide range of connectivity options and advanced processing capabilities.
• Bands and musicians who desire an all-in-one solution for live performances, rehearsals, and recording sessions.
• Audio system integrators, working on permanent installations in venues that require reliable digital mixing systems with superior sonic performance.

Why choose the Midas M32 over the Behringer X32?

The Midas M32 offers several advantages over its counterpart Behringer X32:

• Sonic Superiority: The Midas M32 utilizes premium-grade components resulting in better overall sound quality. It features Midas's award-winning preamps known for their exceptional clarity and warmth which cater to professionals looking for higher-end audio performance.
• Durability & Build Quality: The M32 boasts an all-aluminum chassis construction making it roadworthy and able to withstand rigorous touring schedules. Its improved build quality ensures increased longevity when compared to the plastic-constructed Behringer X32.
• Faders & Controls: One key difference between both consoles lies in their faders. The Midas M32 is equipped with high-quality motorized faders that provide precise control and a smoother mixing experience. Besides, the M32 includes better buttons, knobs, and overall build quality of the control surface.
• Processing Power: The M32 comes with 40-bit floating-point DSP for an enhanced audio processing experience. In addition to this, it offers 192 kHz ADC and DAC converters for excellent sound reproduction and latency reduction.
• Brand Reputation & Prestige: Midas has a long-standing reputation in the professional audio industry for producing top-of-the-line consoles with unparalleled sound quality. Choosing the Midas M32 adds a touch of prestige to any live performance or studio setup.

If you are in search of a mixing console that offers outstanding sound quality, durability, and elegant design, the Midas M32 is an ideal choice over its sibling Behringer X32.

It provides you with top-tier features and performance that will elevate your audio engineering experience, regardless of your application.

Buyer's Guide: Important Things To Consider & Look Out For When Buying A Mixer

1. Get ready for a “Midas” touch of a decision

When stepping into the world of professional audio technology, you'll find yourself amidst top-of-the-line audio equipment that leaves no note unturned.

So, whisper a lil' prayer to Midas (the ancient king, not the ultra-elite Midas M32 digital mixing console) and let's dive into the ocean that is digital audio mixers.

2. Behringer X32 or Midas M32: What's your flavor?

In the land of digital mixing consoles, two giants – the Behringer X32 and its royal cousin, Midas M32 – rule supreme.

While they share many features (like an estranged family), each brings to the sound table their goods and “bads”.

Debate over which is better could go on like “old-school vinyl vs new-age streaming”, but seriously folks, it's about what tickles your fancy.

3. Channel check: It ain't rocket science!

How many channels do you need in your digital audio mixer? A simple question with no simple answer!

This depends on what you're using it for: live performance with multiple instruments or studio recording with fewer inputs? Just remember though: When it comes to channels,
“More is better than less!”.

The Usual Suspects:

• 16 Channels: You know they say “small is beautiful”, right? Home studios and modest gigs love this baby.

• 32 Channels: Midas M32 ahoy! Perfect for concerts, bigger gigs, and that album you've been dreaming of.
• 40+ Channels: It's like a whole orchestra! Welcome to the league of world-class music production & large-scale events.

4. I/O Options: A sea of possibilities

Add more flexibility to your audio mixer by considering the Input/Output (I/O) options available.

Invest in digital mixing consoles with expandable I/O options, allowing for more versatility when connecting various sound sources or external equipment.

Trust us; your sound system will thank you later!

5. Swipe right on usability & interface

Dating Rule #1: “Know thy partner” applies equally to a digital audio mixer as it does to new love interests!

Make sure you're on board with how user-friendly and intuitive the mixer's interface is; after all, it'll be keeping you company through many late-night studio sessions!

6. Digital effects: Turn up the spice!

Add some flavor (and awe) to your live performance or studio recording sessions with built-in digital effects.

Enhance vocals or instruments in real-time without needing additional processors – now that's what we call multitasking at its best!

7. Connectivity: Dare to network

In this era of global connection, “Can it connect remotely?” (is) a question worth asking when choosing your audio equipment companion so that firmware updates and remote applications are no longer a luxury – they're a necessity!

8. Budgeting: Top-shelf quality on a lemonade budget

We get it, everyone's got champagne taste (think Midas M32) but maybe just a beer budget (hello, Behringer X32).

However, remember that balance and value for your investment are the names of the game. Choose wisely with features that cater to your needs without breaking the bank.

9. Mobile mixing apps: The world at your fingertips

Who doesn't love controlling their audio gear remotely?

Make sure to consider mobile mixing apps when choosing your digital audio mixer, especially if you're into live performance or recording where convenience is key.

10. Warranty & support: Don't be left hanging!

Please, for the love of music don't forget about this crucial part!

Check warranties and tech support provided by the manufacturer (*cough* Behringer X32 *cough*), and ensure that repair services are available in case any issues arise.

Because being stuck with an expensive digital paperweight isn't anyone's idea of fun!

So there you have it – our top 10 tips for finding your perfect match in a digital audio mixer!

Go forth and mix like nobody's watching (except perhaps that Midas M32 you've been eyeing…).

Good luck!

Common Midas M32 vs Behringer x32 FAQs:

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