How many XLR microphone inputs does the X1622USB have?

The mixer features four XENYX microphone preamps with XLR inputs. These are located on the first four mono channels of the device.

Does this mixer require a separate audio interface for recording?

No, it includes a built-in USB/audio interface. This allows you to connect the mixer directly to a computer for stereo recording and playback.

What is the function of the 'British EQ'?

The 'British EQ' is based on the circuitry of legendary consoles from the 1960s and 70s. It is designed to provide a warm, musical character during frequency adjustments.

Can I use condenser microphones with this mixer?

Yes, the X1622USB provides phantom power. This is necessary for powering professional condenser microphones through the XLR inputs.

What does the 'one-knob' compressor do?

It simplifies dynamic processing by combining threshold, ratio, and gain settings into a single dial. It is intended to help users easily balance levels for vocals or instruments.

Is the internal FX processor 16-bit or 24-bit?

The internal Multi-FX processor is a 24-bit system. It provides high-quality effects presets such as reverb, delay, and modulation.

How many channels does the X1622USB have in total?

The mixer has 12 input channels. This consists of four mono mic/line channels and four stereo line-level channels.

Does the USB interface allow for multitrack recording?

The built-in USB interface typically outputs a stereo mix of the master output. It does not support individual channel multitracking to a DAW.

Can this mixer be rack-mounted?

Yes, the X1622USB is designed to be rack-mountable. It usually includes rack ears in the box for installation in standard 19-inch equipment racks.

What is the typical price for this model?

The Behringer X1622USB typically retails for approximately £175. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.

Does it have auxiliary sends for monitors?

Yes, it features two auxiliary sends per channel. These can be used for routing signals to external effects processors or stage monitor wedges.

How does it compare to the Mackie ProFX12v3?

Both are 12-channel analog mixers with USB capabilities. The Behringer is often noted for its 'British EQ' and one-knob compression, while the Mackie is known for its Onyx preamps and specific GigFX engine.

Gear article

Behringer XENYX X1622USB

The Behringer XENYX X1622USB is a 12-channel analog mixer designed for live performance and studio recording applications. It integrates four XENYX microphone preamps, one-knob compression, and a built-in USB/audio interface for direct connection to computer systems.

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Overview

The Behringer XENYX X1622USB is a versatile analog mixer that bridges the gap between traditional live sound reinforcement and digital recording. It features 12 input channels, including four mono channels with dedicated microphone preamps and four stereo channels. The unit is designed to provide professional-grade features in a compact, cost-effective format, retailing typically around £175.

Key to its design is the integration of a 24-bit Multi-FX processor and a USB audio interface, allowing users to capture stereo mixes directly to a workstation without the need for external conversion hardware.

Microphone Preamps and Processing

The mixer is equipped with four XENYX mic preamps, which are engineered to offer high dynamic range and transparency. These mono channels also include:

One-knob Compressors: Designed to simplify the process of controlling dynamics, these allow users to dial in balanced vocal or instrumental levels with a single control.
British EQs: The EQ circuitry is based on classic British console designs, intended to provide warm and musical tonal shaping.
Phantom Power: Support for professional condenser microphones is included.

Integrated Effects and Connectivity

The X1622USB features an internal 24-bit Multi-FX processor that offers a variety of presets, including reverb, chorus, flanger, and delay. This removes the necessity for outboard processing units in small-scale live setups.

Connectivity options are comprehensive, featuring: * Balanced XLR and 1/4" main outputs. * Two auxiliary sends per channel. * Two multi-functional stereo auxiliary returns. * USB/Audio interface for stereo recording and playback.

User Profile

This mixer is suited for small bands, solo performers, and project studio owners who require a mix of analog tactile control and digital connectivity. Its compact footprint makes it highly portable for gigging musicians, while the inclusion of compression and effects makes it a complete solution for podcasting or small-scale live broadcasts.

Market Comparison

Within the 12-channel analog mixer market, the X1622USB competes with several notable models:

Mackie ProFX12v3: A similar 12-channel alternative known for its Onyx preamps and GigFX engine.
Yamaha MG12: Offers high-quality construction and D-PRE preamps but lacks the specific one-knob compression layout of the Behringer on all mono channels.
PreSonus StudioLive AR8c: A more compact alternative with SD card recording capabilities, though it offers fewer total channels.
Behringer X AIR XR18: For those moving towards digital mixing, this tablet-controlled unit offers significantly more processing power, though it lacks physical faders.

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Frequently asked questions

How many XLR microphone inputs does the X1622USB have?: The mixer features four XENYX microphone preamps with XLR inputs. These are located on the first four mono channels of the device.
Does this mixer require a separate audio interface for recording?: No, it includes a built-in USB/audio interface. This allows you to connect the mixer directly to a computer for stereo recording and playback.
What is the function of the 'British EQ'?: The 'British EQ' is based on the circuitry of legendary consoles from the 1960s and 70s. It is designed to provide a warm, musical character during frequency adjustments.
Can I use condenser microphones with this mixer?: Yes, the X1622USB provides phantom power. This is necessary for powering professional condenser microphones through the XLR inputs.
What does the 'one-knob' compressor do?: It simplifies dynamic processing by combining threshold, ratio, and gain settings into a single dial. It is intended to help users easily balance levels for vocals or instruments.
Is the internal FX processor 16-bit or 24-bit?: The internal Multi-FX processor is a 24-bit system. It provides high-quality effects presets such as reverb, delay, and modulation.
How many channels does the X1622USB have in total?: The mixer has 12 input channels. This consists of four mono mic/line channels and four stereo line-level channels.
Does the USB interface allow for multitrack recording?: The built-in USB interface typically outputs a stereo mix of the master output. It does not support individual channel multitracking to a DAW.
Can this mixer be rack-mounted?: Yes, the X1622USB is designed to be rack-mountable. It usually includes rack ears in the box for installation in standard 19-inch equipment racks.
What is the typical price for this model?: The Behringer X1622USB typically retails for approximately £175. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.
Does it have auxiliary sends for monitors?: Yes, it features two auxiliary sends per channel. These can be used for routing signals to external effects processors or stage monitor wedges.
How does it compare to the Mackie ProFX12v3?: Both are 12-channel analog mixers with USB capabilities. The Behringer is often noted for its 'British EQ' and one-knob compression, while the Mackie is known for its Onyx preamps and specific GigFX engine.