Behringer Xenyx X1204USB Vs. Tascam Model 12: 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. Tascam Model 12.

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 Tascam Model 12. 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.

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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
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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
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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
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Tascam Model 12

The Tascam Model 12 is going to require you read the manual a few times, for sure! But once you get past the initial learning curve, you'll find it's a versatile machine, capable of multi-track recording, interfacing with a DAW, and even Bluetooth connectivity.

Versatility:

It's a great choice for those who need an all-in-one device. The Model 12 acts as a smaller sibling to the 16 and 24 channel versions, offering a good balance of functionality and size. Its dual inputs (1 – 10) that accept both XLR and 1/4 inch TRS are particularly handy.

Tascam Model 12 Review
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Connectivity

When it comes to connectivity, USB hookups work best when connected directly to the motherboard USB 2.0 sockets, as recommended in the manual. Some users have reported issues when connecting to USB 3.0 ports, so it's something to be mindful of.

Sound Quality

The sound quality is a big plus for the Model 12, with users noting its clean output over headphones or monitors. The Midi In and Out are a great addition, expanding its utility for various setups.

Phantom Power

A slight downside is the global Phantom Power option, which could be more useful if managed by software for each channel. It's crucial to ensure the Phantom Power is off before powering a new unit to protect any connected mics that don't require it.

Software Integration

For those using DAWs, the Model 12 functions well as an interface, though it requires some initial setup. It leaves a lot of room for experimentation and finding a workflow that suits individual needs.

User Tips

Some user tips to consider: the Sub Button on each channel arms the Headphones bus, essential for monitoring. The effects only work if all the Solo buttons are disarmed. And remember, you don't need to press the Play button alongside the Record button when making a track, which is a departure from older tape-based systems.

Overall Impression

While the Tascam Model 12 might have a steep learning curve and some quirks, it's a solid piece of equipment offering great value. It's an excellent choice for anyone looking to step away from complete reliance on a DAW, offering a more hands-on approach to recording and mixing. Just be ready to spend some time with the manual to unlock its full potential.

Head 2 Head: Behringer Xenyx X1204USB or Tascam Model 12

Behringer Xenyx X1204USB – The Long-Haul Companion

Durable as a Rock

This audio mixer is the Clint Eastwood of the soundboard world. It's been my go-to studio mixer for seven years, and I'm still rocking it 24/7. Sure, a few faders might crackle like Rice Krispies in milk, and some buttons need coaxing from time to time, but that's just part of its charm. It's like your granddad's old car—it might have its quirks, but it's reliable as hell.

Behringer Drivers – A Software Horror Story

You've Been Warned!

Windows 7 users, brace yourselves! Picture this: you're installing the Behringer drivers when suddenly your recording modes start disappearing faster than free donuts at a police convention. Then BAM! Your system goes down more frequently than a submarine with screen doors. After an Indiana Jones-worthy adventure into my system files and registry, I switched back to the default Windows 7 drivers. So, heed my advice, stick with default; they're like that reliable friend who always has your back.

A Closer Look at the USB Interface

Good with a Side of Limitations

The USB interface on this digital mixer is a bit like a Rubik's cube—tricky but rewarding. It lacks volume control and EQ adjustments, which might put off some audiophiles. And the USB output can only hit 44.1K or 48K, depending on the main bus, which could be restrictive if you're juggling between the main mix out and the USB output.

Board Features – A Mixed Bag of Goodies

Warm Preamps with a Side of Quirks

This analog mixer has preamps that would make Goldilocks happy—they're just right. They add a warm coloration to your audio that's like audio cocoa on a cold day. The integrated compressors and EQ are pretty solid for the price point, but the AUX channel's integration with the master mix could use some tweaking. The FX channel is like a box of chocolates—you never know what you're gonna get, but it's always fun.

Tascam Model 12 – Mixing Desk Meets Swiss Army Knife

The Tascam Model 12 USB mixer might look intimidating at first glance, kind of like trying to solve quantum physics while standing on one foot. But once you get past its learning curve (and trust me, there is one), you'll find it's as versatile as those multi-tool gadgets everybody loves.

All-In-One Wonder

The Tascam Model 12 is like the utility player of the audio interface world. It's a jack of all trades, offering multi-track recording, DAW interfacing, and Bluetooth connectivity. The dual inputs (1 – 10) that accept both XLR and 1/4 inch TRS are as handy as a pocket on a shirt.

Connectivity – The Good, the Bad, and the USB

When it comes to hooking up via USB, stick to the motherboard USB 2.0 sockets for best results. Plugging into USB 3.0 ports is like playing Russian roulette with your sound quality—sometimes it's great; other times not so much.

The Sound – Clean as a Whistle

The sound quality on this mixing console is cleaner than an operating room. Whether you're listening through headphones or monitors, you're in for an audio treat. And let's not forget the Midi In and Out—they're like cherries on top of an already delicious sundae.

Phantom Power – Handle with Care

The global Phantom Power option is a bit like putting all your eggs in one basket—it works, but it could be more flexible if managed per channel via software. Just remember to turn it off before powering up a new unit; otherwise, you might end up with fried mics faster than you can say “oops.”

Software Integration – A Bit of Elbow Grease Required

For those who use DAWs, this studio mixer doubles up as an interface quite smoothly once you've navigated through some initial setup hoops. It's like building IKEA furniture—with some effort and patience; you'll have something pretty awesome in the end.

Verdict Time – Drumroll, Please!

Choosing a winner between the Behringer Xenyx X1204USB and the Tascam Model 12 is like picking a favorite child—it's tough. But if I had to pick one mixing console to rule them all, I'd go with the Tascam Model 12.

While the Behringer is a sturdy workhorse, and it's been with me through thick and thin, the Tascam Model 12 offers more versatility. It's an all-in-one solution that can handle multi-track recording, DAW interfacing, and even Bluetooth connectivity. It might require some time with the manual (and possibly a few headaches), but once you've mastered it, it's like having your very own audio Swiss Army Knife. Plus, who can resist those handy dual inputs? Not this guy!