How many inputs does the X32 COMPACT have?

The console supports a total of 40 input channels. This includes the local physical inputs and those available through digital expansion.

Who designed the preamps for the X32 COMPACT?

The programmable preamps were engineered in collaboration with MIDAS. They are designed to provide professional-grade audio quality and can be fully recalled via scene management.

Can the X32 COMPACT be used as a recording interface?

Yes, it features a comprehensive 32-channel audio interface. This allows for multi-track recording and playback via USB to a computer.

What is the benefit of the version 2.0 firmware?

The version 2.0 firmware introduced enhanced scene management, acoustic integration for speaker systems, and speaker modelling technology. It also refined the user interface for better workflow.

Is the console compatible with digital stage boxes?

Yes, it is extremely expandable and compatible with up to six S16 digital stage boxes. These connect via AES50 ports using Klark Teknik technology.

Does the X32 COMPACT have motorised faders?

Yes, it features motorised faders that provide precise control and automatically move to saved positions when changing scenes or layers. This is a key feature for professional digital mixing.

What kind of built-in effects are available?

The mixer includes a versatile array of built-in analog-modelled and digital plugins. These include compression, limiting, EQ, reverbs, delays, and various modulation effects.

How does the COMPACT model differ from the standard X32?

The X32 COMPACT features the same internal processing power and channel count as the standard X32 but in a smaller physical frame with fewer local inputs and faders. It is designed for applications where space is at a premium.

Can I use personal monitoring systems with this mixer?

Yes, it is designed to work seamlessly with the Behringer P16-HQ 16-channel personal monitoring mixer. This allows performers to customise their own headphone or wedge mixes.

What is the typical price for this console?

The typical price range for the Behringer X32 COMPACT is approximately GBP 1,045. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.

Does the mixer support remote control?

Yes, the X32 series supports remote control via Ethernet. Users can manage the mix using dedicated apps on tablets or laptops.

What technology is used for the digital networking?

The console uses Klark Teknik’s SuperMAC networking technology. This provides high-channel-count digital audio transport with extremely low latency.

Gear article

Behringer X32 COMPACT Digital Mixing Console

The Behringer X32 COMPACT is a versatile 40-input, 25-bus digital mixing console designed for professional live sound and studio recording applications. Engineered in collaboration with MIDAS and Klark Teknik, it features programmable preamps and a comprehensive 32-channel audio interface, offering high-end processing in a scaled-down physical footprint.

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Overview and History

The Behringer X32 COMPACT represents a significant milestone in digital mixing technology, providing the full processing power of the original X32 flagship in a more portable chassis. Developed through a strategic partnership between Behringer, MIDAS, and Klark Teknik, the console leverages high-end design expertise to deliver professional-grade preamps and signal processing at a competitive price point.

Since its release, the platform has evolved significantly, particularly with the introduction of version 2.0 firmware. This update expanded the console's capabilities, adding sophisticated scene management tools, acoustic integration for speaker systems, and advanced speaker modelling technology to further customise output stages.

Key Features and Hardware

The hardware interface of the X32 COMPACT is built around a series of motorised faders that provide tactile control and visual feedback of mix levels. It supports 40 input channels and 25 buses, making it suitable for complex live arrangements.

The console includes: * Programmable preamps designed in collaboration with MIDAS. * A high-resolution 7-inch TFT display for workflow management. * Dedicated channel strip sections for immediate access to EQ, dynamics, and routing. * Compatibility with S16 digital stage boxes (up to six units) for remote I/O expansion.

Processing and Effects

The X32 COMPACT features a robust internal processing engine that includes a wide array of built-in effects. Users have access to both modern digital plugins and analog-modelled processors.

Signal processing options include high-quality compression, limiting, multi-band EQ, and time-based effects such as reverbs, delays, and modulation. These tools allow for studio-quality mixing in a live environment without the need for external outboard gear. The version 2.0 firmware further enhanced these capabilities with advanced speaker modelling and acoustic integration features.

Connectivity and Integration

Connectivity is a core strength of the X32 COMPACT, highlighted by its integrated 32-channel audio interface for direct recording to a DAW. It is highly expandable via the AES50 ports, which utilise Klark Teknik’s SuperMAC networking technology for ultra-low latency.

Beyond traditional audio I/O, the console integrates seamlessly with the Behringer P16-HQ personal monitoring system, allowing performers to control their own monitor mixes. It also supports remote control via mobile devices or computer applications, providing flexibility for engineers to mix from anywhere in a venue.

Comparison and Suitability

The X32 COMPACT occupies a middle ground between large-format consoles and rack-mounted units like the X AIR XR18. While smaller than the full X32, it retains the same processing power, making it ideal for touring bands, medium-sized venues, and project studios where space is limited but channel count remains important.

Compared to alternatives like the Allen & Heath QU-16 or PreSonus StudioLive SE16, the X32 COMPACT is often noted for its deep feature set and large ecosystem of compatible accessories. For simpler needs, users might consider analog options like the Yamaha MG12 or Mackie ProFX12v3, though these lack the comprehensive digital routing and recallable preamps found in the X32 series.

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Frequently asked questions

How many inputs does the X32 COMPACT have?: The console supports a total of 40 input channels. This includes the local physical inputs and those available through digital expansion.
Who designed the preamps for the X32 COMPACT?: The programmable preamps were engineered in collaboration with MIDAS. They are designed to provide professional-grade audio quality and can be fully recalled via scene management.
Can the X32 COMPACT be used as a recording interface?: Yes, it features a comprehensive 32-channel audio interface. This allows for multi-track recording and playback via USB to a computer.
What is the benefit of the version 2.0 firmware?: The version 2.0 firmware introduced enhanced scene management, acoustic integration for speaker systems, and speaker modelling technology. It also refined the user interface for better workflow.
Is the console compatible with digital stage boxes?: Yes, it is extremely expandable and compatible with up to six S16 digital stage boxes. These connect via AES50 ports using Klark Teknik technology.
Does the X32 COMPACT have motorised faders?: Yes, it features motorised faders that provide precise control and automatically move to saved positions when changing scenes or layers. This is a key feature for professional digital mixing.
What kind of built-in effects are available?: The mixer includes a versatile array of built-in analog-modelled and digital plugins. These include compression, limiting, EQ, reverbs, delays, and various modulation effects.
How does the COMPACT model differ from the standard X32?: The X32 COMPACT features the same internal processing power and channel count as the standard X32 but in a smaller physical frame with fewer local inputs and faders. It is designed for applications where space is at a premium.
Can I use personal monitoring systems with this mixer?: Yes, it is designed to work seamlessly with the Behringer P16-HQ 16-channel personal monitoring mixer. This allows performers to customise their own headphone or wedge mixes.
What is the typical price for this console?: The typical price range for the Behringer X32 COMPACT is approximately GBP 1,045. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.
Does the mixer support remote control?: Yes, the X32 series supports remote control via Ethernet. Users can manage the mix using dedicated apps on tablets or laptops.
What technology is used for the digital networking?: The console uses Klark Teknik’s SuperMAC networking technology. This provides high-channel-count digital audio transport with extremely low latency.