Behringer Xenyx 1204USB

Good quality microphone amplifier, well done in general, convenient (even if a bit heavy). Was used with condenser mic and other sources, sound completely OK. The only thing which I did not achieve is to use it as audio interface for the computer so you get USB sound output from the computer mixed with the master stream in the headphones but not for ADC input, so you can both control what is going to the computer and hear what is going out. May be this is my fault (I'll they to read the manuals again), but what was easy with, say, Yamaha MW10 or audiogram, turns out to be impossible (for me). But you can hear the computer output usb sound, and you can hear your input sent to ADC and the computer, both things are completely OK if done separately

1. Introduction

I needed a budget desktop mixer (hey, I'm a student) to interconnect many of my audio devices to a single stereo input on the USB audio interface. Ability to quickly connect/disconnect equipment without ruining existing patching was essential aspect. Since all of the post-processing is done on a computer I didn't need a built-in FX processor (as in the similar model Xenyx X1204 USB from the same price category). Like many of you out there I'm always looking out for a good deal on price-vs-features. Behringer has always offered plethora of options and if you are not an audiophile and can accept certain deficit of pro audio equipment shine it will do the job just about as any other pricier brand.

2. Build Quality

Plastic side covers on aluminium body. Plastic knobs and metallic audio connectors. Everything feels solid and it has not yet fallen apart (2+ years later). Mixer feels heavy and sturdy, no complaints here.

3. Features

4 mono/mic + 2 stereo channel strips with 3-band EQ, pre/post AUX sends and pannning. Mic channels have a built-in one-knob compressor (good for live events), gain trim pot and phantom power supply (48v). As usual Behringer offers plenty of ins and outs. 2-track input/output (RCA), built-in USB connection which works as a 2-track (stereo) audio interface, 2x mono AUX sends, 2x stereo AUX returns, headphone output, one subgroup (alt 3-4, all muted channels are sent to subgroup). Master stereo XLR output, 1/4" jack subgroup output (stereo) and 1/4" stereo control room output.

4. Verdict

Like I said in the introduction all I needed was a "central hub" to connect my external gear to stereo USB audio interface. Sound wise it is acceptable (look at the price). Obviously if you avoid maxing out the gain knob and keep your levels loud and clean there is no noticeable distortion and background hissing. I use it with a turntable set, studio microphone, sampler/sequencer and any other occasional gear I come across. There are many scenarios on how to use it and it will fit into most of them really really well. A budget no frills desktop mixer all the way.

This mixer is very good for me. I use it every day to listen a music, recording. I connected my microphone to it, which I use during online conferences. You can connect mixer via usb to your PC or laptop.
But there is one thing that disappointed me - i can't record each channel separately in DAW. But i found decision on youtube channel "PProject-band", it is not very comfortable but it works.\
Good quality faders and potentiometers. I have been using it for 10 months and still have no problems.
Whether you need a mixer for listening to music, for home recording, or for a microphone. Good decision.
If you need mixer for listening music, for home recording or for microphone. It's good decision.

A great small-venue mixer that does double duty in home studios.
I have used this board on a daily basis for about a year now and have had NO PROBLEMS with it. It has been through live stage productions as well, all channels, 4 phantom powered mics with pretty heavy amp up and it performed exceptionally well. The effect processing is cool and the alt 3-4 is very useful(for those that don't know what alt 3-4 is, it is an output that comes from your muted tracks). Aux 1 has pre OR post fader settings, very useful. Some things I would like to see: USB volume control(available on more expensive models), gain for stereo tracks, control room unity setting, off switch for effect processor(constant orange glow even when i'm not using the effects).