Behringer Xenyx X1204USB Vs. Roland VR 1HD AV: 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. Roland VR 1HD AV.

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 Roland VR 1HD AV. 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

Roland VR-1HD AV Streaming Mixer

I tested the Roland Video Switcher with audio capabilities for about a month, and here's my verdict: it's a compact powerhouse perfect for those tight on space but needing a robust video and audio solution.

Set-Up and Input Flexibility

Setting it up was a bit of a learning curve, but once I got the hang of it, the switcher's functionality was impressive. I connected a DSLR, a camcorder, and my laptop as input devices, alongside a 32GB storage device for still images and wave files. The lack of internal storage is a minor drawback, as all images and audio are stored on the external drive. Another minor hiccup is the need for images to be in Windows Bitmap File (.bmp) format, which requires a bit of extra work in conversion.

File Compatibility and Storage Tips

I encountered issues with a 128GB stick, but resizing BMP files to smaller than the maximum 1920 x 1200 pixels helped. Also, converting MP3 or MP4 files to wave format using Audacity or iTunes was necessary – a bit outdated, but manageable. It's a bit odd to still be using wave files in today's digital age, but overall, it didn't hamper the experience too much.

Streaming Capabilities and Support

A notable downside is that Roland doesn't include the USB A to B 3.0 cable needed for streaming, so be prepared to buy one separately. The setup is excellent for enhancing Zoom meetings or similar applications. However, don't expect to master it immediately – it requires some practice before using it for critical projects.

Reliability in Various Settings

The switcher has proven itself in different environments. From church services to educational settings, it's been reliable and easy to use. The build quality is solid, and the ease of streaming video and sound is commendable. However, there have been some issues post-software update, with the mixer crashing during live streams, which is something to watch out for.

Customer Support and Overall Satisfaction

When I faced connectivity issues with my iMac, product support was helpful in resolving them. Despite a few initial hurdles, I'm enjoying the switcher a lot. The ability to upload custom sound files and music adds a personal touch to the output.
Conclusion

Overall, this Roland Video Switcher is a great tool for anyone needing a compact, yet feature-rich, video and audio mixing solution. It's versatile, though it comes with a few quirks that require some workaround. But once you're past the learning curve, it opens up a world of creative possibilities.

Head 2 Head: Behringer Xenyx X1204USB or Roland VR 1HD AV

Let's Talk Longevity: Behringer Xenyx X1204USB

Seven Years and Counting

Behold, the Behringer Xenyx X1204USB, a mixer that proves its worth in gold. After seven years of continuous usage, this audio mixing console still hits all the right notes. Expect some minor issues – faders that crackle, buttons asking for a bit more pressure – but hey, what doesn't age? For a mixer pulling double duty as an XLR to USB interface for calls, it's been nothing short of flawless.

The Behringer Driver Trauma

A Word of Caution to Windows 7 Users

Unfortunately, the Behringer drivers for Windows 7 users are a bit like stepping on Lego – painful and totally unnecessary. Installing them feels like navigating through a maze blindfolded – you're lost, frustrated, and there's potential for many blue screens ahead! So here's a pro tip: Stick with the default drivers. They're more reliable and offer more flexibility.

USB Interface on the Behringer Xenyx X1204USB

Good Enough but Could Be Better

As for the USB interface on this live streaming equipment? It’s like finding out your favorite chocolate bar has shrunk; it's still good but leaves you wanting more. It lacks volume control and EQ adjustments and is restricted to just 44.1K or 48K output based on the main bus when using USB out. If you need to use both the main mix out and USB output simultaneously, it’s like trying to juggle with one hand tied behind your back.

Features of the Behringer Xenyx X1204USB

Some Hits and A Few Misses

The preamps on this AV mixer are like a good cup of coffee – warm, comforting, and surprisingly good. The built-in compressors and EQ pull their weight too. But the AUX channel's integration with the master mix? It feels a bit like being invited to a party but being told you can't dance. On the bright side, the FX channel is a party in itself with a variety of sound effects.

Stepping into the Roland VR 1HD AV Arena

A Compact Powerhouse for Audio-Visual Mixing

Enter stage right: The Roland VR 1HD AV. This AV streaming mixer is like that small but mighty friend we all have – compact yet robust. Setting it up might feel like learning to ride a bicycle – initially challenging, but ultimately rewarding. It accepts a DSLR, camcorder, and laptop as input devices, alongside an external storage device for still images and wave files.

Storage and File Compatibility with Roland VR 1HD AV

A Few Hiccups Along The Way

There's no internal storage on this audio mixing console; it's all about that external drive life. Images need to be in Windows Bitmap File (.bmp) format which can feel like taking a detour when you're already late. Also, wave format is the talk of the town here – MP3 or MP4 files need to be converted using tools like Audacity or iTunes which feels slightly outdated in our digital age.

Streaming Capabilities of Roland VR 1HD AV

Impressive but Practice Makes Perfect

This mixer doesn't come with the USB A to B 3.0 cable required for streaming – a bit like buying a toy that doesn’t include batteries. Once you have the cable, and after some practice, it does a fantastic job of enhancing video calls and similar applications. But beware, post-software update, the mixer can crash during live streams – not ideal if you're mid-way through an epic guitar solo.

The Final Showdown: Behringer Xenyx X1204USB vs Roland VR 1HD AV

And The Winner Is…

After careful consideration and several cups of coffee, we have a clear winner. Drum roll, please… The crown goes to the Behringer Xenyx X1204USB. Sure, it has its quirks – the driver issues and limited USB interface – but considering its price point and longevity, this mixer is like that old pair of jeans that fits just right. It offers great value for money and is perfect for small-scale live events or home studios. The Roland VR 1HD AV is undoubtedly versatile with a compact design perfect for small spaces, but the learning curve can be steep and file compatibility issues are slightly annoying in today's fast-paced digital world.