Yamaha MG10XU vs Behringer Xenyx 802: Detailed Mixer Comparison Guide for Buyers (2024)

You're ready to make a big purchase, but you're having trouble deciding between these two powerhouses, the Yamaha MG10XU and the Behringer Xenyx 802.

Trust me, I know how difficult that decision is… especially if you have no plans on whipping out that dreaded return postage label!

You know how the saying goes, buy right, buy once! Or something like that…

Either way, I've got you covered!

I've broken down the good, the bad and the ugly of these babies, so providing you have a clear idea of exactly what you plan on doing with it, you will have a clear idea on which one is best for you, by the end of this article.

Let get into it…

At A Glance:

Yamaha MG10XU

Yamaha MG10XU Pros & Cons

• Pros:
  • The unit itself is intuitive and easy to use.
  • Onboard effects are satisfactory for basic sound needs.
  • The layout and design of the unit is good and aesthetically pleasing.
  • Sound quality is great when paired with decent active/powered speakers and a good mic.
  • No noise when turning the power switch on or off.
  • Highly rated for its reliability.
  • One of the best audio interfaces capable of 24 bits / 192 kHz resolution.
  • Good audio preamps and phantom power for microphones.
  • Can feed audio from various sources into the mixer, then to a USB in on PC.
• Cons:
  • The power cord is wadded up in a figure 8 shape, creating a trip hazard.
  • The large power supply is in the middle of the cord instead of near the wall socket/power source end.
  • Preferences for the orientation of the grounds on the balanced mic cords may not be met.
  • Shipped only in the factory printed retail box which was scuffed, raising concerns about damage.
  • No USB cable included.
  • No driver and setup disk included unlike previous versions.
  • Cubase AI software included is considered worthless due to download and setup issues.
  • Yamaha drivers not in the link as published, requiring extensive web search to find.

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Behringer Xenyx 802

Behringer Xenyx 802 Pros & Cons

• Pros:
  • Good value for the price.
  • Ships promptly and includes a comprehensive manual in several languages.
  • Controls work flawlessly for the most part.
  • Good for educational purposes, small bands, starting DJs, and community theaters.
  • Excellent for venues that primarily involve talking, such as churches.
  • Durable, metal casing and solid knobs.
  • Sound quality is good and doesn't change when routed through the mixer.
  • Phantom power works well.
  • Good for incorporating a karaoke system into a home theater setup.
• Cons:
  • The light indicating that it is on is distractingly bright.
  • Distortion can be high, and it can be difficult to eliminate, especially for beginners.
  • The treble EQ can make high-frequency audio sound metallic and cut off some at the top.
  • There's a lack of individual controls for each input.
  • Doesn't have an EQ bypass feature.
  • Uses USB for digital I/O, which is slower than Firewire for data transfers.
  • No on/off switch.
  • Produces heat over time, especially around the LEDs, and doesn't have any ventilation.

Key Differences Between The Yamaha MG10XU And The Behringer Xenyx 802

The main differences between Yamaha MG10XU and Behringer Xenyx 802 are:

• The Yamaha MG10XU is renowned for its superior USB output with a bit depth, which can significantly affect sound quality. It also boasts on-board processors, the SPX algorithm with 24 programs, Phantom power of +48V and Digital I/O: USB Audio Class 2.0 compliant with a maximum of 192 kHz, 24-bit Input Channels.
• The Behringer Xenyx Q802, on the other hand, offers inputs and outputs via USB and is often preferred for simple sound calls due to its impressive features.

Another noteworthy difference is in their range of features. While both models offer multiple functionalities:

• The Behringer Xenyx Q802 is recognized for having more features such as direct outs/USB/FX compared to Yamaha MG10XU.

However, it's worth noting that there have been queries about the build quality of the Behringer mixer.

In terms of inputs:

• The Behringer Xenyx Q802USB mixer has flexibility with its inputs – it provides eight in total consisting of two mic and two stereo allowing for diverse audio setup needs.

When it comes to price and quality comparisons:

• A pricey high-quality option from Behringer is generally considered equivalent in price and quality to a Yamaha mixer at the same level.

Ultimately, deciding between these two mixers will be guided by specific needs including desired number of inputs or outputs, budget restrictions or specific brand loyalty.

Therefore, reviewing more detailed specifications before making your choice would be beneficial.

Specs	Yamaha MG10XU	Behringer Xenyx 802
Channels	10 channel mixer with USB and SPX digital effects	Not specified
Preamps	Studio grade discrete class A D PRE amps with inverted Darlington circuit	2 State-Of-The-Art Xenyx Mic Preamps Comparable To Stand-Alone Boutique Preamps
EQ and Filters	3 band EQ and high pass filters	Not specified
Compressors	1 knob compressors	Studio-Grade Compressors With Super-Easy “One-Knob” Functionality
Chassis	Rugged, impact resistant, powder coated metal chassis	Not specified
Noise Level	Equivalent input noise 128 dBu, residual output noise 102 dBu	Premium Ultra-Low Noise, High Headroom Analog Mixer
Dimensions	244 millimeter x 71 millimeter x 294 millimeter (9.6×2.8×11.6 inches)	Not specified
Color	Not specified	Silver/Gray
Audio Interface	No	Built-In Stereo Usb/Audio Interface To Connect Directly To Your Computer
Software	No	Free Audio Recording, Editing And Podcasting Software Plus 150 Instrument/Effect Plug-Ins Downloadable At Behringer.Com

What You Need To Know About Yamaha MG10XU

The Yamaha MG10XU is a 10 channel mixer with USB and SPX digital effects.

This means you can connect multiple audio sources, like microphones or instruments, and control their sound levels to make a mix that's perfect for you.

It has studio grade discrete class A D PRE amps which help produce rich bass and clear high notes.

You also get 3 band EQ (Equalizer) and high pass filters which let you tweak the sound to remove any unwanted noise, so your mix comes out clean and crisp.

There's also a handy knob compressor which lets you get more lively guitar sounds, punchier bass notes, tighter drum sounds, and clearer vocals.

This mixer is super tough too! It has a strong metal chassis coated in powder to resist impacts.

Keep in mind though – it's always best to check out the user manual before using it for the first time. As for its size – it's about 9.6 inches wide, 2.8 inches tall, and 11.6 inches deep!

So there you have it folks – the Yamaha MG10XU could be exactly what you need to create brilliant audio mixes!

My 1 Month Review Of The Yamaha MG10XU

Initial Impressions

The Yamaha MG10XU felt like a breath of fresh air when I first got acquainted with it. Out of the box, my first impression was that it exuded quality.

From the stunning look to the solid build, everything about this mixer spoke volumes about how much effort Yamaha put into designing this fantastic piece of kit.

Performance and Functionality

After using this mixer for a month, I can confidently say that performance-wise, the Yamaha MG10XU has delivered beyond my expectations. This baby is powerful!

• It comes with ten channels which makes it incredibly versatile. Whether you're dealing with vocals or instruments, this mixer handles them all with ease.

• The sound quality is crystal clear. No noise or interference, just pure sound as it should be.

• The built-in effects are fabulous and easy to use. Having these numerous effects at your fingertips is like having an entire studio in your living room.

Usability and Interface

One thing that stood out to me during my hands-on experience is how user-friendly the Yamaha MG10XU is.

• The knobs and buttons are well-laid out making for easy navigation.

• The functionality is straightforward; even a beginner would find handling this mixer a breeze.

The interface design gets top marks from me!

Durability and Build Quality

As far as durability goes,I give the Yamaha MG10XU two thumbs up.

• It possesses a robust metal chassis that promises longevity.

• The knobs and faders have not shown any signs of wear or tear despite daily use over the month.

In summary, my hands-on experience with the Yamaha MG10XU has been nothing short of amazing.

From performance to durability, usability to interface design – everything about this mixer has impressed me. Kudos to Yamaha for creating such an excellent product!

What You Need To Know About Behringer Xenyx 802

If you're looking to amp up your audio game, the Behringer Xenyx 802 is worth a look. Its silver/gray finish adds a modern touch to any setup.

This isn't any ordinary mixer, it's known for its ultra-low noise and high headroom, giving you clean and clear sound every time.

What makes the Xenyx 802 stand out are its two state-of-the-art mic preamps.

They're just as good as those fancy standalone boutique preamps you see in professional studios. With these preamps, your recordings will sound top notch.

But it doesn't stop there! This mixer also comes with studio-grade compressors. These have a super easy “One-Knob” functionality plus a control LED.

Whether you're recording vocals or instruments, these compressors ensure your sound is always pro-level.

Perhaps one of the coolest features of the Behringer Xenyx 802 is its built-in stereo USB/audio interface.

You can connect it directly to your computer without any fuss! It even comes with free audio recording, editing and podcasting software along with 150 instrument/effect plug-ins that you can download at behringer.com.

In short, this analog mixer packs a whole lot of punch into one sleek package!

My 1 Month Review Of The Behringer Xenyx 802

After a month of testing the Behringer Xenyx 802, here are my thoughts:

Setup and Ease of Use

The setup process was simple and straightforward. It was a refreshing experience to jump straight into using the mixer without having to go through complex instructions.

The controls are intuitively placed, making it easy for beginners like me to navigate.

The preamps were smooth and overall, it was a breeze to work with this unit. I've got to admit, it felt almost second nature using the Behringer Xenyx 802 within no time.

Sound Quality

Sound quality? Absolutely brilliant! The microphone preamps deliver crystal clear audio quality.

I can't help but mention how much I love the British-style EQs – they add an amazing warmth and depth to my sound.

What stood out for me is the low noise level. This thing is so quiet! Even when pushed close to its limits, I had no issues with ground hum or hissing.

Durability

I've been using this mixer heavily within these few weeks. Still, it remains remarkably solid — enduring long hours of use without showing signs of wear or tear.

The knobs hold up well; they don't feel cheaply made or loose at all. You can tell that Behringer has made some serious efforts in ensuring durability for this product.

Value for Money

For its price point, the Behringer Xenyx 802 provides excellent value. It comes with features that are typically found in more expensive models – preamps with phantom power, British-style EQs…you name it.

In conclusion: If you're on a budget but still want good performance and durability, then this is your go-to mixer.

Few Critiques

No product is perfect though; some minor issues include lack of effects sends and returns which would have given me additional flexibility when routing signals.

While not deal breakers by any means, their inclusion would have taken this already fantastic mixer up another notch.

Overall though? I'm impressed by how well the Behringer Xenyx 802 performs despite its small size and affordable price tag.

If you're after great sound quality along with simplicity in operation all wrapped into one neat little package – then yes…I'd definitely recommend over giving the Behringer Xenyx 802 a try!.

Who The Yamaha MG10XU Is For & Why You Might Choose It Over The Behringer Xenyx 802

The Yamaha MG10XU is a great fit for those who need a reliable, high-quality mixer for both live performances and home recording. It's an ideal choice for anyone requiring superior sound quality without compromising on design.

Here's why you might choose it:

• The unit has an intuitive layout, which makes it easy to use even without referring to the manual. You will appreciate this if you are familiar with mixing boards with onboard effects.

• The onboard effects are a key selling point. Though limited to one or mixed presets at a time, they suit those who prefer simplicity and only require one basic sound.

• A major plus of Yamaha MG10XU is its sound quality. Coupled with decent active/powered speakers and a good mic, the mixer delivers exceptional audio output that appeals to audiophiles.

• The mixer also offers excellent connectivity options. Though not particularly exciting for everyone, this can be seen as a plus by users seeking varied connection possibilities.

While reviewing the product, some users noted possible improvements:

• A more uniform power cord would reduce trip hazards and improve aesthetics on stage.

• Some users would prefer different grounding orientation on balanced mic cords.

On another note, the Yamaha MG10XU is also one of the best studio mixers on the market today and appears in our top 10 selection.

This adds to its overall appeal for both professional music producers and beginners alike who need superior performance.

The bottom line is – If you're looking for reliability paired with excellent sound quality in your mixing board, the Yamaha MG10XU might just be what you're after.

Despite few minor drawbacks, its pros overwhelmingly make it worth considering in your search for an ideal mixer.

Who The Behringer Xenyx 802 Is For & Why You Might Choose It Over The Yamaha MG10XU

Who Is the Behringer Xenyx 802 For?

The Behringer Xenyx 802 is a versatile board designed to serve a range of users.

If you're looking for an affordable, easy-to-use mixer for educational purposes, this control board fits the bill.

Thanks to its straightforward manual, you can quickly learn to use this product even if it's your first time operating a mixer.

Small bands starting their journey, budding DJs or low-budget community theatre organizations would also find the Behringer Xenyx 802 an ideal choice due to its affordability and decent quality.

Similarly, if you need a sound mixer for primarily speech-based events such as church gatherings, this board will serve you well.

Why Choose the Behringer Xenyx 802?
When considering the purchase of Behringer Xenyx 802, several factors come into play:

• Affordability: If your budget limits you to under $100 without compromising sound quality, choosing this product makes sense.
• Easy Set-up: The board comes with an extensive manual in multiple languages that can guide even beginners effectively.
• Versatility: From incorporating a Karaoke system into your home theater setup to working with different types of output devices like headphones and medium-quality speakers – it does it all.
• Durability: Even after enduring physical impacts like falling from height onto a hardwood floor, this model has proven itself sturdy and resilient.
• Suitable for Speech-based Usage: For places that focus on talking rather than music, like churches or educational institutions – it's an excellent fit.

However, if you intend to do any recording or if you belong to a music group that can afford higher quality boards offering more individual controls and EQ options – then perhaps the Behringer Xenyx 802 may not be for you.

It lacks EQ bypass which allows one to choose whether or not to apply EQ and its digital I/O is USB whereas Firewire is faster with data transfers in pro sound world.

Also note that while there are boards in this line above this one with more inputs, they only have EQs on the first 2 meaning arguably the cheaper Behringher Xenyx 802 offers better value.

Finally remember – no cables are included so plan accordingly and also consider getting an audio adapter if using HDMI cables.

If the comparisons between Yamaha MG10XU and Behringer Xenyx 802 didn't quite help you find the perfect audio mixer, don't worry—I've taken a look at numerous other products as well.

For additional Yamaha comparisons, you might find the Yamaha MG10XU vs Mackie ProFXv3 Series, Yamaha MG10XU vs Tascam Model 12, or Yamaha MG10XU vs Zoom LiveTrak L-8 posts useful.

On the other hand, if you're interested in exploring options from other brands, I'd recommend checking out my comparison of Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX vs Behringer Xenyx 1204USB.

There's plenty more content where this came from so take your time to explore and find your best fit.

FAQs

Buyer's Guide: Important Things To Consider & Look Out For When Buying A Mixer

1. Define Your Needs

Before you venture into the world of studio mixers, take a moment to define your needs. What will be the primary function of the mixer?

Are you looking for something suitable for home studio recording, live sound setups or maybe a bit of both?

Do you need the mixer to have USB connectivity for direct computer recording, or are you okay with traditional analog mixers?

Once you clarify your requirements, it becomes easier to decide whether something like a Yamaha MG10XU would be suitable or if another model might fit better.

2. Consider the Mixer's Size and Format

Audio mixers come in various shapes and sizes — from large format ones used in professional studios to small format mixers ideal for portable setups or smaller spaces.

If you're often on-the-go or work from home, a small-format mixer like the Behringer Xenyx 802 may be a practical choice.

It offers professional-grade features packed in a compact size—an ideal blend of quality and convenience.

3. Think About Channels & Inputs

Considering how many channels and inputs a mixer has is absolutely crucial.

If your requirement involves multiple microphones, instruments and other sound sources simultaneously, you'd need more channels.

On the contrary, if your requirement is simple—a podcast setup with just one microphone—you can opt for simpler audio mixers that offer fewer inputs.

4. Check Out Built-In Digital Effects Processors

If adding audio effects is part of your creative process then having built-in digital effects processors could be an advantageous feature.

A great example is the Yamaha MG10XU which comes equipped with SPX effects for enhancing sound quality.

Some sound mixing boards also provide features such as reverb and echo controls which can add depth to your recordings.

5. Weigh Up Analog Vs Digital Mixers

When choosing between analog mixers vs digital ones—the decision largely depends on personal preference.

Analog mixers tend to provide warmer characterful sounds, whereas digital ones often offer more flexibility when it comes to editing and plugins.

In terms of interface though, analog usually wins out with its tactile controls that many producers prefer.

6. Look Into Compatibility

Look into whether prospective audio mixers will integrate seamlessly into existing studio recording gear—if that's relevant for your situation.

For instance, a USB mixer offers direct computer integration.

You should check what sort of outputs they have—are they compatible with speaker system? And does their connectivity meet all requirements?

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