How many microphones can I plug into the XR18?

The XR18 features 16 Midas-designed XLR/TRS combo inputs for microphones or line-level instruments. There are also two additional 1/4 inch line inputs for a total of 18 inputs.

Does the XR18 have physical faders?

No, the XR18 is a 'black box' style mixer with no physical faders. It is controlled entirely via software on a tablet, smartphone, or computer.

Can I record multi-track audio with the XR18?

Yes, the integrated 18 x 18 USB 2.0 interface allows you to record all 18 input channels individually into a DAW on your computer.

What is Dugan-style auto-mixing?

This feature automatically manages the gain levels of multiple microphones in real-time. It is specifically designed to prevent feedback and noise buildup when several people are speaking at once.

Does it require an external Wi-Fi router?

The XR18 has a built-in tri-mode Wi-Fi router for direct connection. However, for large venues with high wireless interference, using an external 5GHz router via the Ethernet port is often recommended.

Is the XR18 compatible with personal monitoring systems?

Yes, it includes a dedicated ULTRANET port. This allows it to send 16 channels of audio to Behringer Powerplay P16-HQ or P16-M personal monitor mixers.

What effects are included in the XR18?

It features the X32 effects rack, which includes four stereo FX slots. These can run various simulations including reverbs, delays, and compressors.

Can I use the XR18 with an Android tablet?

Yes, Behringer provides dedicated X AIR control applications for Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Does it have a Real Time Analyser (RTA)?

Yes, the XR18 includes a 100-band RTA for all channels and bus EQs, allowing for precise frequency identification and adjustment.

How many auxiliary outputs does it have?

The XR18 features 6 XLR auxiliary outputs. These can be used for stage monitors, outboard gear, or additional zones.

Is the XR18 rack-mountable?

Yes, the unit comes with rack ears included in the box. It occupies approximately 3U of space in a standard 19-inch rack.

Can the MIDI ports be used for control?

Yes, the MIDI In/Out ports allow the mixer to be controlled by external MIDI controllers or to send MIDI data to a DAW.

Gear article

Behringer X AIR XR18 Digital Mixer

The Behringer X AIR XR18 is an 18-input digital mixer designed for stage and studio use, featuring 16 Midas-designed microphone preamps and an integrated 18 x 18 USB audio interface. It operates as a stage box-style unit, controlled remotely via tablet or computer through its built-in Wi-Fi module or Ethernet connection.

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Overview and Construction

The Behringer X AIR XR18 is a compact, rack-mountable digital mixer housed in a robust stage box chassis. Unlike traditional consoles, it lacks physical faders, instead relying on an external control surface such as an iPad, Android tablet, or PC. It provides 16 programmable Midas-designed preamps and two line-level inputs, totaling 18 input channels. The unit is designed to be placed directly on stage to minimise cable runs, acting as both the I/O interface and the signal processor.

Connectivity and Control

A core feature of the XR18 is its integrated tri-mode Wi-Fi router, which allows users to control the mixer functions wirelessly without the need for an external router. For more stable connections in congested RF environments, it includes an Ethernet port for wired networking. The mixer also features MIDI In/Out for controlling the unit via MIDI equipment or using it as a MIDI interface. For personal monitoring, the XR18 is compatible with the Behringer P16-HQ system via its ULTRANET port.

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Signal Processing and Effects

The XR18 leverages the effects engine originally developed for the Behringer X32. This includes four true-stereo multi-effects processors with access to high-end simulations of classic gear. Key features for live sound include:

Dugan-style Auto-Mixing: Automatically manages microphone gains for multiple active mics, ideal for panel discussions or theatre.
100-band Real Time Analyser (RTA): Provides visual frequency feedback for every channel and bus EQ.
DSP Processing: Each channel features a gate, 4-band parametric EQ, and compressor.

Recording and Studio Integration

Equipped with a bi-directional 18 x 18 channel USB 2.0 interface, the XR18 functions as a powerful digital audio workstation (DAW) interface. This allows for multi-track recording of all 18 inputs directly to a computer while simultaneously sending monitor mixes back to the performers. Its high-headroom Midas preamps ensure professional-grade signal capture for both live recordings and studio sessions.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to analog alternatives like the Mackie ProFX12v3 or Yamaha MG12, the XR18 offers significantly more processing power per channel and multi-track recording capabilities that analog boards at this price point typically lack. In the digital realm, it competes with units like the PreSonus StudioLive SE16; however, the XR18’s stage box form factor is more portable than a traditional fader-based console. While the Allen & Heath QU-6D offers Dante connectivity, the XR18 remains a highly competitive choice for those prioritising compact wireless control and Midas-designed preamps.

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Frequently asked questions

How many microphones can I plug into the XR18?: The XR18 features 16 Midas-designed XLR/TRS combo inputs for microphones or line-level instruments. There are also two additional 1/4 inch line inputs for a total of 18 inputs.
Does the XR18 have physical faders?: No, the XR18 is a 'black box' style mixer with no physical faders. It is controlled entirely via software on a tablet, smartphone, or computer.
Can I record multi-track audio with the XR18?: Yes, the integrated 18 x 18 USB 2.0 interface allows you to record all 18 input channels individually into a DAW on your computer.
What is Dugan-style auto-mixing?: This feature automatically manages the gain levels of multiple microphones in real-time. It is specifically designed to prevent feedback and noise buildup when several people are speaking at once.
Does it require an external Wi-Fi router?: The XR18 has a built-in tri-mode Wi-Fi router for direct connection. However, for large venues with high wireless interference, using an external 5GHz router via the Ethernet port is often recommended.
Is the XR18 compatible with personal monitoring systems?: Yes, it includes a dedicated ULTRANET port. This allows it to send 16 channels of audio to Behringer Powerplay P16-HQ or P16-M personal monitor mixers.
What effects are included in the XR18?: It features the X32 effects rack, which includes four stereo FX slots. These can run various simulations including reverbs, delays, and compressors.
Can I use the XR18 with an Android tablet?: Yes, Behringer provides dedicated X AIR control applications for Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Does it have a Real Time Analyser (RTA)?: Yes, the XR18 includes a 100-band RTA for all channels and bus EQs, allowing for precise frequency identification and adjustment.
How many auxiliary outputs does it have?: The XR18 features 6 XLR auxiliary outputs. These can be used for stage monitors, outboard gear, or additional zones.
Is the XR18 rack-mountable?: Yes, the unit comes with rack ears included in the box. It occupies approximately 3U of space in a standard 19-inch rack.
Can the MIDI ports be used for control?: Yes, the MIDI In/Out ports allow the mixer to be controlled by external MIDI controllers or to send MIDI data to a DAW.