Behringer Xenyx X1204USB Vs. Peavey PV 14 AT: 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. Peavey PV 14 AT.

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 Peavey PV 14 AT. 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.

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.

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.

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.

Peavey PV 14 AT

After six months with the Peavey PV 14 AT, I've gotta say, it's a versatile and generally reliable mixer, perfect for both studio and live gigs. The sound quality really stands out, especially in its clarity and consistency. And let's not forget the Bluetooth connectivity – it's a game-changer for integrating different audio sources.

Usability and Customer Service

The mixer's pretty user-friendly, which is great for newbies and pros alike. But, there's a bit of a snag with customer service. Getting a timely response can be hit or miss, which is a bit of a letdown. When you're dealing with tech gear, having solid support is key, and Peavey could definitely step up their game here.

Performance and Reliability

Performance-wise, the Peavey PV 14 AT usually hits the mark. However, there've been a few hiccups like noise issues and some channels acting up, raising some red flags about its longevity. If you're thinking of picking this one up for heavy use, this might be something to chew on.

Overall Experience

All in all, the Peavey PV 14 AT has mostly lived up to my expectations, offering pretty good bang for the buck. It’s a solid choice for small to medium setups, but just keep an eye on those potential glitches.

Technical Specs and Features

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty—the Peavey PV 14 AT specs. This bad boy comes loaded with 14 channels, just as the name suggests. You also get 8 mic inputs, which is a pretty sweet deal if you're looking to cater to a full band or a vocal ensemble. Plus, it's got built-in Antares® Auto-Tune® – I mean, who doesn't love a bit of auto-tuning magic?

But wait, there's more! How about built-in Bluetooth connectivity? Yes, you read that right! This modern marvel lets you integrate different audio sources without needing a jumble of wires. It's like living in the future without needing a DeLorean.

A Quick Tutorial

So, how do you work this thing? Glad you asked! The Peavey PV 14 AT manual is your go-to guide here. It’s quite comprehensive and detailed – kind of like an instruction manual for assembling an IKEA shelf but minus the frustration and inevitable leftover screws.

The controls are laid out intuitively and are easy to navigate even if you’re not exactly an audio wizard. With just a little practice and patience (and maybe some trial-and-error), you'll have your mix sounding as smooth as Barry White on Valentine's day.

Value for Money

When it comes to best budget audio mixer reviews, the Peavey PV 14 AT mixer review usually stands tall. Look, it ain't perfect – but then again, neither is that overpriced cup of coffee from your favourite hipster joint downtown.

What it does offer is a solid balance between price and performance. It hits above its weight class when compared with other mixers in its price range. So if you're looking for a workhorse that won’t have you selling your kidneys on the black market, this might just be the mixer for you.

Comparisons and Competitors

Of course, it's always good to keep an eye on the competition. In the world of pro audio mixer reviews, there are other players out there worth considering. But if your needs are specific to small-to-medium setups and you're not planning to power a concert at Wembley Stadium anytime soon, then our friend the Peavey PV 14 AT holds its own pretty well.

The digital audio mixer reviews might lure you towards more complex and high-tech options, but remember – all that glitters is not gold. Sometimes simplicity is key, and in this case, Peavey has struck a decent balance between functionality and user-friendliness.

In short: If you're looking for a reliable mixer with decent features that won't break the bank – or your back lugging it around – then the Peavey PV 14 AT might just be your new best friend.

Head 2 Head: Behringer Xenyx X1204USB or Peavey PV 14 AT

Behringer Xenyx X1204USB: A Workhorse with a Seven-Year Track Record

Longevity and Consistency

The Behringer Xenyx X1204USB is the Sean Connery of mixers – it's been around for a while, but it still packs a punch. After seven years of use, this audio interface still delivers – minus a few minor hiccups with some faders and buttons. But let's be honest – if you've been working almost 24/7 for seven years, you'd crackle a bit too, wouldn't you?

The Dark Side of Behringer Drivers

Windows 7 Compatibility Issues

The Behringer drivers apparently have an issue with Windows 7 similar to cats and water. Installing them proved to be more of a horror story than an IT task, causing reduced recording capabilities and recurrent system crashes. If you're a Windows 7 user, consider sticking to the default drivers – they're like that trustworthy friend who always has your back.

The USB Interface: A Mixed Bag

Limited Control and Output

The USB interface on this mixer is good but could do better. It misses out on volume control and EQ adjustments – kind of like ordering pizza without any toppings. Furthermore, when using the USB out, your output options are restricted to just 44.1K or 48K based on the main bus.

Board Features: A Smorgasbord of Goodies (and Some Not-so-good Ones)

Solid Preamps with Character

This analog mixer comes equipped with pretty solid preamps that add a warm, inviting coloration to your audio. The built-in compressors and EQ are decent for the price, but the AUX channel's integration with the master mix could use some work. The digital effects on the FX channel are a nice touch.

Peavey PV 14 AT: A New Contender with Potential

Versatile and Reliable… Mostly

The Peavey PV 14 AT is like that new guy in town who's trying to make a name for himself. It boasts great sound quality and Bluetooth connectivity, which is like having your cake and eating it too. While it’s generally reliable, there’ve been a few instances of noise issues and channels acting up – not exactly red carpet material.

Customer Service: Could Do Better

A Slow Response Time

When it comes to customer service, Peavey seems to be taking leisurely strolls rather than sprinting. A timely response can sometimes be as elusive as finding Waldo in one of those books.

Performance: Not Without Its Quirks

Occasional Glitches

While this USB mixer generally performs well, it has had its share of hiccups. This raises questions about its longevity – something you might want to consider if you're planning on using it heavily.

The Verdict: And the Winner Is…

The Behringer Xenyx X1204USB Takes the Crown!

So, we've got two contenders here – each with their strengths and weaknesses. But there can only be one winner, right? So, drumroll please… The crown goes to the Behringer Xenyx X1204USB! Despite its driver issues (which can be avoided with default drivers) and the limitations of its USB interface, the Behringer Xenyx X1204USB pulls ahead with its longevity, solid preamps, and overall reliability. Plus, it adds a warm touch to the audio, which can be quite appealing. This mixer is ideal for small-scale live events and home studios. While the Peavey PV 14 AT is a worthy competitor, it falls short due to customer service issues and occasional performance glitches.