Behringer Xenyx X1204USB Vs. Mackie Mix12FX: 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 Xenyx X1204USB vs. Mackie Mix12FX.

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 Xenyx X1204USB and Mackie Mix12FX. 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 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

Mackie Mix12FX 12-Channel Compact Mixer

After getting the Mackie Mix12FX 12-Channel Compact Mixer for personal use, I've had some time to really dive into what it offers. This mixer isn't in my studio setup; it's more for my personal, smaller-scale audio projects. Let's break down my experience with it.

Initial Impressions and Build Quality

First off, the mixer feels sturdy. Mackie is known for their solid construction, and this mixer is no exception. It's compact, which is perfect for my needs, fitting nicely into my personal workspace without taking up too much room.

Input and Output Options

The 4 Mic/Line Inputs with 3-Band EQ & HPF are quite handy. They provide enough flexibility for most of my projects, which typically involve a couple of microphones and some line-level devices. The addition of Stereo RCA Tape Inputs & Outputs is a nice touch, allowing for more connectivity options.

Sound Quality and Features

Sound-wise, the Mix12FX delivers. The 3-Band EQ on each channel gives me enough control to tweak the sound to my liking. The built-in effects are a bonus, although I wouldn't say they're studio-grade. They're more than sufficient for adding a bit of flavor to the mix during practices or casual recording sessions.

Additional Accessories

The G-MIXERBAG-1212 Padded Nylon Mixer Bag is a lifesaver. It's great for keeping the mixer safe during transport. As for the PB-S3410 3.5 mm Stereo Breakout Cable, it's been essential for connecting my laptop or phone to the mixer, especially when I want to play along with tracks or incorporate other media into my sessions.

User Experience

For personal use, this mixer hits the sweet spot. It's uncomplicated, making it easy to set up and start using without a steep learning curve. The pan, level, and overload indications on each channel are clear and straightforward, helping me avoid any mishaps during use.

Powering Condenser Mics

The availability of 48V phantom power is a big plus, as it allows me to use condenser mics without needing an external power source. This feature is particularly useful for higher-quality vocal recordings.

Overall Thoughts

In conclusion, the Mackie Mix12FX is a reliable, compact mixer that's perfect for personal use. It offers a good balance of features and sound quality for its size and price. While it might not have the bells and whistles of more expensive studio mixers, it's more than adequate for small-scale projects and practice sessions. The additional accessories like the padded bag and breakout cable only add to its value. For anyone looking for a straightforward, effective mixer for personal use, I'd definitely recommend the Mackie Mix12FX.

Head 2 Head: Behringer Xenyx X1204USB or Mackie Mix12FX

The Behringer Xenyx X1204USB: A Sturdy Companion

Let's Talk Durability
So, you've been with your mixer for seven years, huh? That's a commitment. The Behringer Xenyx x1204usb has proven to be a trusty audio mixer. A few faders with some crackle and buttons that need a friendly nudge – all part of the charm, right? This is what I call an analog mixer that can withstand the test of time. It works phenomenally well as an XLR to USB interface for calls, keeping you connected 24/7.

Those Pesky Behringer Drivers

Windows 7 users, pull up a chair.
Let's talk about the dark side of this digital mixer. Installing the Behringer drivers on Windows 7 is trickier than trying to untangle earbuds from your pocket. You'll probably see more blue screens than a smurf convention and your recording modes will drop faster than my Wi-Fi connection at home. My advice? Stick with the default Windows 7 drivers because honestly, they're like that reliable friend who always shows up on time.

The USB Interface: Decode It Like Da Vinci

Here's The Scoop On The USB Input
This bad boy comes with some limitations. It lacks volume control and EQ adjustments which might leave you feeling as though you're stuck in a one-sided conversation. And if you're using the USB out, you only get either 44.1K or 48K output based on the main bus. Kinda like having only two flavors at an ice cream shop – it can be limiting.

The Board Features: Hits, Misses and Curveballs

Let's Get Into The Nitty-Gritty
The preamps in this recording console are like that surprise birthday party you never saw coming – surprisingly good! But they do add a warm coloration to the audio, which might not be everyone's cup of tea. The built-in compressors and EQ are decent for the price, but the AUX channel's integration with the master mix can feel a bit limiting. On the bright side, it's like having your own personal sound effects library with its FX channel.

So, What's The Final Verdict?

The Behringer Xenyx X1204USB: A Contender Or Pretender?
For its price, this mixing board is like finding a Picasso at a yard sale. Not perfect, but definitely valuable. While it has its quirks and could be more versatile, it still packs a punch as an affordable, reliable choice for small-scale live events and home studios.

Mackie Mix12FX: The Compact Powerhouse

First Impressions Last
The Mackie Mix12fx enters the room like a VIP – compact yet sturdy. It's got all the characteristics of studio equipment that means business without hogging up all your workspace.

A Wealth Of Input And Output Options

Let's Talk Flexibility
With 4 Mic/Line Inputs with 3-Band EQ & HPF, this USB mixer has enough flexibility to make a yoga instructor jealous. Plus, the Stereo RCA Tape Inputs & Outputs are like unexpected bonus tracks on your favorite album – always welcome.

Sound Quality That Sings

Let's Talk Sound
The Mix12FX is like that friend with the contagious laugh – it simply delivers. The 3-Band EQ on each channel allows you to tweak the sound to your heart's content. The built-in effects might not be studio-grade, but they're more than enough to add some flavor to your mix.

User Experience That Excites

Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy
This mixer is as uncomplicated as a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, making it easy to set up and use. It's like getting behind the wheel of a car with automatic transmission – straightforward and efficient.

The Final Say

The Mackie Mix12FX: A Class Act?
The Mackie Mix12FX is a reliable, compact mixer that's perfect for personal use. It offers a good balance of features and sound quality for its size and price. While it might not have the bells and whistles of more expensive studio mixers, it's more than adequate for small-scale projects and practice sessions.

And The Winner Is…

After carefully comparing these two titans, it's clear that one stands out from the crowd in terms of reliability, user experience, and overall value for money. Drum roll please… The winner is… the Behringer Xenyx X1204USB. This mixer stands tall with its durable design, quality preamps, and solid performance despite its quirks. While Mackie Mix12FX put up an admirable fight, Behringer takes home the crown for its long-lasting reliability. So if you’re looking for an affordable audio mixer that can endure the test of time, the Behringer Xenyx X1204USB is your go-to mixing board. Whether you're a home studio enthusiast or a live sound engineer, this mixer will undoubtedly serve you well on your audio journey.