Description

Mix it! Behringer Xenyx 1204 12-input 2/2-Bus mixer, $119!

The Behringer Xenyx 1204 is a compact and affordable 12-input, 2/2-bus mixer designed for both live sound and studio recording. It is part of Behringer’s Xenyx series, which focuses on delivering professional features at budget-friendly prices. The 1204 model offers a range of inputs, built-in effects, and flexible routing options, making it suitable for smaller bands, home studios, podcasting, and live setups.

Key Features:

  • Inputs: The Xenyx 1204 provides a total of 12 inputs, divided as follows:
    • 4 XLR microphone inputs with Behringer’s Xenyx preamps for clear, low-noise audio capture.
    • 4 stereo line inputs for connecting instruments, keyboards, or other stereo sources.
  • Phantom Power: The mixer includes +48V phantom power on all four XLR inputs, enabling the use of condenser microphones.
  • Preamps: Behringer’s Xenyx preamps are known for their low-noise and high-headroom performance, ensuring clean microphone input signals with minimal distortion or hiss. These preamps are comparable to higher-end mixers, making the 1204 a popular choice for those seeking professional sound on a budget.
  • EQ Section: Each mono channel is equipped with a 3-band EQ (high, mid, low) for precise tonal shaping, making it easy to adjust your sound during live performances or recording sessions. The EQ is British-style, designed to provide smooth, musical adjustments similar to classic studio consoles.
  • FX Send: The Xenyx 1204 features an FX send on each channel, allowing you to route audio to external effects processors or the onboard effects unit (if applicable). This feature is great for adding reverb, delay, or other effects to your mix without affecting the original signal.
  • Built-in Compressor: The mono channels include a one-knob compressor for controlling dynamics, which helps smooth out audio levels and prevent distortion during recording or live performances. This is especially useful for vocals or instruments that vary in volume.
  • Aux Sends: The mixer offers two aux sends per channel. One can be used for external effects, while the other can be used for creating a monitor mix, giving you flexibility in both live and studio environments.
  • Pan and Level Controls: Each channel includes pan and level faders, giving you control over the stereo placement and volume of each input source.
  • 2/2-Bus Design: The Xenyx 1204 has a 2-bus design, allowing you to create separate mixes. This is useful for monitoring during live performances or when creating submixes during recording sessions.

Aesthetic and Build Quality:

The Xenyx 1204 has a compact and durable design, with a rugged metal chassis that is ideal for both home studio and live use. The knobs and faders are color-coded for easy navigation during performances, and the layout is intuitive for users at any skill level. Despite its affordability, the build quality is solid, offering reliable performance over time.

Sound Profile:

Thanks to the Xenyx preamps and 3-band EQ, the Xenyx 1204 provides clean, clear audio with plenty of headroom. The built-in compressor helps keep dynamic audio sources like vocals or acoustic instruments under control, ensuring a balanced, professional sound. The mixer is capable of handling live performances, podcasts, band rehearsals, or small recording sessions, and the sound quality is well-regarded for its price range.

Connectivity:

  • Main Outputs: Balanced XLR outputs for connecting to PA systems or recording interfaces.
  • Control Room Outputs: These are ideal for connecting monitor speakers or headphones for monitoring during recording sessions or performances.
  • Stereo RCA Inputs and Outputs: For additional playback and recording devices.
  • USB Compatibility: Some versions of the Xenyx 1204 include USB output, allowing for easy connection to a computer for digital recording or streaming, making it a flexible choice for home studios and podcasts.

Country of Manufacture:

  • China: Like most Behringer products, the Xenyx 1204 is manufactured in China to keep costs affordable. Despite this, Behringer is known for providing solid build quality and features typically found in higher-end gear.

If adding a shirt please indicate size at checkout, thanks!