Behringer Xenyx X1204USB Vs. Rode Rodecaster Pro II: 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. Rode Rodecaster Pro II.

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 Rode Rodecaster Pro II. 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

Rode Rodecaster Pro II

Real Talk: The RØDECaster Pro II Experience

High Expectations Met

When I first got my hands on the RØDECaster Pro, I was expecting something phenomenal. The multi-track recording with polywav files, one-button Bluetooth, USB in/out with mix-minus, and soundFX banks – it seemed like a complete package. It's like having your own audio production studio.

Initial Shortcomings

Lacking EQ Adjustments

However, it wasn't all perfect. The lack of basic three-frequency EQ control was a letdown. I thought the beautiful touchscreen would be perfect for this, but no luck. Not having these fundamental adjustments was a bit of a disappointment, especially considering its user-friendly design.

Microphone Compatibility

Not Just for Rode Mics

I don’t use a Rode mic – I’ve got Heil PR40s, which sound incredible with a Mackie mixer. So without onboard EQ, I had to tweak things in post-production. It’s a workaround, but not ideal. I’m curious to see how a Rode mic would fare, given their tuned presets.

Recommendation

Still Worth It?

Would I recommend the Rodecaster Pro? Absolutely. Despite some quirks, its potential is undeniable. It's a bit frustrating that I have to spend more time in post, which I hoped to avoid. But, I'm planning to test it with a Rode mic eventually.

Update: After Extended Use

Impressed by the Updates

After several months of use and with the release of the new software update, my view has shifted. The update addressed my concerns, adding controls for the onboard compressor, noise gate, de-esser, and more. It’s become a reliable workhorse for my podcast.

Power and USB Issues

A Frustrating Experience

However, it’s not all smooth sailing. There were power and USB issues that were quite troublesome. At one point, I couldn’t get the USB 1 to connect to anything, which was incredibly frustrating. This kind of issue is not what you expect from a premium product.

Final Thoughts

Great, But With Caveats

Overall, the RØDECaster Pro II is a powerful tool, but it comes with its own set of challenges. It's packed with features that any podcaster or content creator would love, but be prepared for some potential hiccups along the way.

Head 2 Head: Behringer Xenyx X1204USB or Rode Rodecaster Pro II

Behringer Xenyx X1204USB: A Beast in Longevity

Still Breathing After Seven Years

In the world of audio mixers, it's not uncommon to stumble upon a few lemons. However, the Behringer Xenyx X1204USB proves to be a trusty steed. This sound mixer has been my faithful companion for seven years, functioning almost non-stop. Sure, a few faders might crackle and some buttons need a bit of extra love, but that's nothing less than expected for any piece of studio equipment that lacks regular maintenance.

Driver Blues with Behringer

A Nightmare Scenario for Windows 7 Users

Here’s a little cautionary tale for you. The Behringer drivers are an absolute doozy to install on Windows 7! My system became about as stable as a house of cards in a windstorm with frequent blue screens and my recording options shrank like wool in hot water. I spent more time diving into system files than actually making music. My advice? Stick with your default Windows 7 drivers – they're as reliable as your favorite pair of jeans and offer far more options.

The USB Interface Quirks

A Mixed Bag Of Good And Not-So-Good

The USB interface is like the eccentric uncle at family gatherings – intriguing but can be rather complicated. There's no volume control or EQ adjustments on the USB input, which is somewhat limiting when you're trying to get the perfect sound mix. 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 feel restrictive if you're juggling the main mix out and the USB output at the same time.

The Board Features Showdown

Preamps with a Warm Embrace

The preamps on this USB mixer are like a perfectly brewed cup of coffee – surprisingly good, but with a warm touch that might not sit well with everyone. The built-in compressors and EQ are a decent pair, offering just enough to keep you satisfied without going overboard. On the downside, the AUX channel's integration with the master mix can feel like it's got one hand tied behind its back. But hey, the FX channel is an absolute delight, offering a smorgasbord of sound effects.

The Verdict on Behringer Xenyx X1204USB

A Bang for Your Buck With A Few Bumps Along The Way

This board is like that surprisingly affordable little restaurant down the street – it's not perfect, but it sure does offer great value for your buck. From small-scale live events to home studios, this recording mixer can weave its magic quite well.

Rode Rodecaster Pro II: A Powerhouse With Potential

Expectations Met And Then Some

When you lay your hands on the Rode Rodecaster Pro II for the first time, it feels like you've just been handed the keys to your own audio production studio. This podcasting mixer boasts multi-track recording with polywav files, one-button Bluetooth connectivity, USB in/out with mix-minus and soundFX banks – pretty much everything you'd need in a digital audio workstation (DAW).

The Initial Hiccups With Rodecaster Pro II

Where’s My EQ?

No product is born perfect, even the mighty Rodecaster Pro II. The lack of basic three-frequency EQ control was a bit of a letdown. You'd think that with such a lovely touchscreen, this feature would be a no-brainer. But alas, it wasn't meant to be.

Playing Well With Others?

Compatibility Issues

I use the Heil PR40s, which sound sublime with a Mackie mixer. But without onboard EQ on this audio interface, I had to do some post-production gymnastics for optimal sound quality. This isn't an ideal scenario, but it's workable.

Still A Good Choice?

Absolutely!

Despite these little quirks, I’d still recommend this audio mixer in a heartbeat. It's like having a rough diamond – it's got immense potential and brilliance, but it does need some polishing.

The Extended Use Verdict

Updates That Impress

A few months down the line and with the release of new software updates, my perspective on this recording mixer has shifted quite positively. The updates addressed my concerns by adding controls for the onboard compressor, noise gate, de-esser and more – it’s like getting an upgrade on an already impressive piece of studio equipment.

Power And USB Woes

Frustrations Galore!

However, there were some frustrating power and USB issues that proved to be more than minor annoyances. At one point, I felt like I was playing tug-of-war with USB 1 trying to get it to connect – not something you'd expect from a premium product.

Final Thoughts On Rode Rodecaster Pro II

A Powerful Tool With A Few Rough Edges

The RØDECaster Pro II is like a high-performance sports car – it's powerful, packed with features, and an absolute joy to use. However, like all high-performance machines, it can have its share of challenges.

The Showdown: And The Winner Is…

Behringer Xenyx X1204USB Takes The Cake

Choosing between these two powerhouses is like picking between a rock and hard place. But if I had to choose one, I'd give the edge to the Behringer Xenyx X1204USB. It's durable, reliable and offers an impressive set of features at an affordable price point. Despite its quirks, this audio mixer holds its own against the higher-priced Rode Rodecaster Pro II. For anyone stepping into the world of podcasting or setting up a home studio on a budget, the Behringer Xenyx X1204USB is your best bet. It’s not perfect, but hey, what in life is?