What is the primary purpose of the Allen & Heath XB-14-2?

The XB-14-2 is designed specifically for radio broadcasting and internet radio studios. It facilitates the management of microphones, guests, telephone calls, and external playback devices with specific broadcast logic.

What are the 'Telco' channels used for?

The Telco channels are used to integrate telephone hybrids into the broadcast. They provide a 'clean-feed' or 'mix-minus' signal to the caller so they can hear the studio output without their own voice being delayed back to them.

Does the mixer have an internal USB interface?

Yes, it features a USB connection that allows for stereo audio to be sent to and from a computer. This is ideal for digital recording or using playout software.

How does the automatic muting feature work?

The mixer is designed to automatically mute the control room monitor speakers when a microphone fader is raised. This prevents acoustic feedback during live segments.

Can I connect multiple guest headphones to this mixer?

Yes, the XB-14-2 includes separate headphone outputs with independent mixes. This allows the host and guests to have tailored monitoring levels during the show.

What is 'Start/Cue' logic on the stereo channels?

Start/Cue logic allows the mixer to trigger external equipment, such as CD players or software, when a fader is opened. This streamlines the timing of music and sound effects.

How many microphone inputs does the XB-14-2 have?

The mixer features four dedicated mono microphone/line channels. These are supplemented by two Telco channels and four stereo channels for other sources.

Is the XB-14-2 suitable for live music production?

While it can handle audio signals, it lacks the auxiliary sends and onboard effects typical of live mixers like the Mackie ProFX12v3. It is strictly optimised for speech-based broadcasting.

What is the typical price range for this unit?

In the UK market, the Allen & Heath XB-14-2 typically retails for approximately £1,709. Prices may vary based on the retailer and current promotions.

Does this mixer require a separate telephone hybrid?

Yes, the Telco channels are designed to interface with an external telephone hybrid. The mixer provides the routing, but the hybrid converts the telephone line to a standard audio signal.

How does this compare to the Allen & Heath QU-6D?

The QU-6D is a digital mixer with Dante connectivity intended for live sound and complex routing, whereas the XB-14-2 is an analogue-style mixer focused on specific broadcast ergonomics.

Can the routing on the XB-14-2 be customised?

Yes, the mixer offers a wealth of internal routing options. These allow users to tailor the desk to their specific studio configuration and signal flow requirements.

Gear article

Allen & Heath XB-14-2 Broadcast Mixer

The Allen & Heath XB-14-2 is a specialised compact broadcast mixer designed for small studios and internet radio applications. It features dedicated telephone communication modules and integrated logic controls to streamline live radio production environments.

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Overview

The Allen & Heath XB-14-2 is an updated version of the original XB-14, engineered specifically for the demands of the broadcast industry. Unlike standard live or recording mixers, the XB-14-2 is built with a layout and feature set that prioritises radio workflow, making it a staple for community radio, podcasters, and small commercial stations. It combines the reliability of analogue signal paths with modern digital integration via USB.

Broadcast Specific Features

The mixer stands out due to its broadcast-specific logic and routing. Key features include:

Telco Channels: Two dedicated channels allow for seamless integration of telephone hybrids, including clean-feed (mix-minus) outputs to prevent callers from hearing their own echo.
Automatic Speaker Muting: Internal circuitry automatically mutes the control room monitor outputs when a microphone channel is live, preventing feedback loops during broadcasts.
Start/Cue Logic: Stereo channels are equipped with logic outputs for remote transport control of CD decks or playout software, triggered by fader movement.
Multiple Headphone Mixes: The unit provides independent monitor mixes for the engineer and up to two guests, ensuring everyone hears the necessary cues without interfering with the main broadcast.

Audio Routing and Connectivity

The XB-14-2 offers a wealth of routing options to suit custom studio setups. It features four mic/line channels and four stereo channels. The inclusion of a USB port allows for easy recording to a computer or playout from digital audio workstations. The versatile signal path allows users to configure the mixer for a variety of live and pre-production scenarios, ensuring it can grow with the studio's needs.

Target Audience and Application

This mixer is primarily suited for small-scale professional broadcasters and serious internet radio hobbyists. It bridges the gap between basic desktop mixers and large-format broadcast consoles. For users who require dedicated telephone interaction and professional fader-start logic without the footprint of a full-scale radio desk, the XB-14-2 provides a robust, mid-range solution.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to general-purpose mixers like the Mackie ProFX12v3 or Yamaha MG12, the XB-14-2 offers specific broadcast logic (like speaker muting) that standard mixers lack. While digital mixers like the Behringer X AIR XR18 or Allen & Heath QU-6D offer more processing power and remote control, they often lack the physical fader-start capabilities and clean-feed routing essential for traditional radio workflows. It sits as a specialised alternative to the PreSonus StudioLive series, focusing on broadcast ergonomics rather than multitrack recording.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of the Allen & Heath XB-14-2?: The XB-14-2 is designed specifically for radio broadcasting and internet radio studios. It facilitates the management of microphones, guests, telephone calls, and external playback devices with specific broadcast logic.
What are the 'Telco' channels used for?: The Telco channels are used to integrate telephone hybrids into the broadcast. They provide a 'clean-feed' or 'mix-minus' signal to the caller so they can hear the studio output without their own voice being delayed back to them.
Does the mixer have an internal USB interface?: Yes, it features a USB connection that allows for stereo audio to be sent to and from a computer. This is ideal for digital recording or using playout software.
How does the automatic muting feature work?: The mixer is designed to automatically mute the control room monitor speakers when a microphone fader is raised. This prevents acoustic feedback during live segments.
Can I connect multiple guest headphones to this mixer?: Yes, the XB-14-2 includes separate headphone outputs with independent mixes. This allows the host and guests to have tailored monitoring levels during the show.
What is 'Start/Cue' logic on the stereo channels?: Start/Cue logic allows the mixer to trigger external equipment, such as CD players or software, when a fader is opened. This streamlines the timing of music and sound effects.
How many microphone inputs does the XB-14-2 have?: The mixer features four dedicated mono microphone/line channels. These are supplemented by two Telco channels and four stereo channels for other sources.
Is the XB-14-2 suitable for live music production?: While it can handle audio signals, it lacks the auxiliary sends and onboard effects typical of live mixers like the Mackie ProFX12v3. It is strictly optimised for speech-based broadcasting.
What is the typical price range for this unit?: In the UK market, the Allen & Heath XB-14-2 typically retails for approximately £1,709. Prices may vary based on the retailer and current promotions.
Does this mixer require a separate telephone hybrid?: Yes, the Telco channels are designed to interface with an external telephone hybrid. The mixer provides the routing, but the hybrid converts the telephone line to a standard audio signal.
How does this compare to the Allen & Heath QU-6D?: The QU-6D is a digital mixer with Dante connectivity intended for live sound and complex routing, whereas the XB-14-2 is an analogue-style mixer focused on specific broadcast ergonomics.
Can the routing on the XB-14-2 be customised?: Yes, the mixer offers a wealth of internal routing options. These allow users to tailor the desk to their specific studio configuration and signal flow requirements.