Behringer XR18 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 XR18 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 XR18 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 XR18

This is another mixer I got hold of just to review. It has a semi-hefty price-tag but what I will say is this: the Behringer XR18 is a unit that delivers far more than its price suggests. After several months of continuous use, I've faced zero reliability issues, making it a standout in its category.

Unbeatable Feature Set for the Price

The XR18's feature set is its biggest selling point. There's a wealth of options here that you'd struggle to find in other mixers within this price range. The audio quality is top-notch, and the control options are extensive. It's particularly great for those who need comprehensive control in a live setting or a studio environment.

Minor Downsides

Despite its strengths, there are a few areas where the XR18 could improve. One noticeable absence is the ability to do time-alignment, a feature available in the higher-class X32. There's also the matter of the built-in Wi-Fi, which can be a bit unreliable in live situations. I always ensure a hard-wired connection during critical events to avoid any potential connectivity issues. Lastly, there's a bit of a learning curve when switching between the software interfaces on different platforms, like iPad and computer.

Robust Software and Solid Hardware

The software is robust, offering comprehensive control over the unit, albeit with some platform-specific quirks. Hardware-wise, the unit feels solid and well-built, suitable for regular gigging.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, if you need a feature-rich mixer and the XR18 ticks all your boxes, go for it. It's an excellent investment, especially considering its price point. Sure, it has a couple of minor drawbacks, but these are easily outweighed by its overall performance and reliability. Whether for live use, studio work, or even podcasting, the XR18 is a versatile choice that won't disappoint.

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 XR18 or Rode Rodecaster Pro II

Behringer XR18: The Underdog that Packs a Punch

Let's get this straight: the Behringer XR18 is a beast of a digital mixer. It's like that quiet guy in the corner who, when called upon, delivers results that make your jaw drop. I mean, for its price tag, you're getting an audio recording interface that feels like it should be in a much higher league. The audio quality is pristine, and the control options are nothing short of comprehensive. These features make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable live sound mixer. However, the lack of time-alignment and sometimes unreliable Wi-Fi can make you feel like you're trying to tame a rowdy teenager in certain live situations. But hey, no one's perfect right? Despite these minor downsides, Behringer has done an impressive job with the XR18's software and hardware design. It's robust enough to take on regular gigging without breaking a sweat. So whether you're running a live show or recording your next podcast episode, this little powerhouse won't let you down.

Rode Rodecaster Pro II: The Premium Podcaster’s Pick

Now let's talk about the Rode Rodecaster Pro II. This thing is like that shiny new sports car everyone wants to take for a spin. It promises to deliver high-quality audio with ease and style—and it does…mostly. Its multi-track recording capabilities are impressive, making podcasting or any form of content creation feel like child’s play. However, not having basic EQ adjustments was quite disappointing. I mean c'mon! Who doesn't love tweaking knobs to get their audio just right? But credit where credit is due: after some software updates, the Rodecaster Pro II became a much more reliable USB audio interface. The new features added, like controls for the onboard compressor and noise gate, made it feel like a mini studio equipment upgrade. But alas, it was not all rainbows and unicorns. The USB connectivity issues had me pulling my hair out more than once. For a product in this price range, you'd expect it to be smooth sailing.

The Final Verdict: Behringer XR18 vs. Rode Rodecaster Pro II

Drumroll please…the winner is…the Behringer XR18! Yes, the underdog takes the crown in this head-to-head battle. While both mixers have their merits, the Behringer XR18 offers more value for money with its sturdy build and extensive feature set. Despite some minor drawbacks, it proves that you don't need to break the bank to get top-quality mixing console performance. The Rode Rodecaster Pro II is undoubtedly a great piece of kit for any podcaster or content creator. Still, its lack of basic EQ adjustments and occasional technical hiccups make it fall just short of the top spot. So there you have it: if you're hunting for an audio interface that offers excellent reliability and control options at an unbeatable price point, look no further than the Behringer XR18.