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.

Perfetto. Qui il tono giusto è: cavallo di battaglia, rapporto qualità prezzo altissimo, qualche limite quando cresci ma senza sputarci sopra. È la recensione che aiuta davvero chi deve comprare.

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Affordable, reliable and perfect to build a studio around

Review text
For the money, the Xenyx 1204USB is honestly a fantastic mixer. It offers a combination of flexibility, built-in USB audio interface and onboard effects that makes it a real must-have, especially for anyone starting a studio or building a compact live or rehearsal setup.

The number of channels and routing options is impressive at this price point. You can easily connect synthesizers, drum machines, microphones and external processors without feeling limited. The preamps are clean, quiet and perfectly usable for everyday production work.

The internal FX section is a very welcome bonus. Reverbs, delays and modulation effects are simple but musical, and extremely useful for quick monitoring or live situations. The routing can feel a bit unusual at first and might require some time to fully understand, but once you get familiar with the signal flow it becomes fast and practical.

Build quality is solid. Faders, knobs and switches feel reliable, and the unit can definitely handle regular use. It is the kind of mixer you can trust to sit at the center of your setup for years.

In my current studio it has started to feel a little tight simply because my gear collection has grown, not because the mixer lacks anything. For many musicians and producers, this could easily remain the main hub for a long time.

If you want an affordable, complete and dependable solution with real hands-on control, this one is hard to beat.