Behringer XENYX Q1204USB Premium Analog 12-Input Mixer with USB/Audio Interface (Wireless Ready)

Behringer Q1204USB Overview

Designed for live performance and studio recording, the Behringer XENYX Q1204USB is a 6-channel (12-input) mixer with an integrated 2x2 USB audio interface that offers clear and natural sound. The mixer features four high-quality XENYX mic preamps with phantom power for working with high-end condenser microphones. Additionally, there are two sets of 1/4" stereo line inputs, stereo RCA inputs and outputs, and two 1/4" Aux/FX send, and dedicated 1/4" stereo returns as well as a 1/4" headphone output.

The XENYX Q1204USB includes two XLR main outputs, a pair of 1/4" Alt 3/4 outputs, and a pair of 1/4" control room outputs. The four mic channel inputs and stereo inputs 5/6 & 7/8 feature 3-band British-style EQ and panning knobs, while channels 1-4 sport a single-knob compressor. The mixer is wireless-ready and is compatible with Behringer's digital wireless system (not included). Along with the built-in USB/audio interface, the Q1204USB comes with all the recording and editing software needed to turn your computer system into a complete, high-performance home recording studio.

At a Glance

• Premium ultralow noise, high-headroom mixer
• 4 state-of-the-art, phantom-powered XENYX Mic Preamps comparable to stand-alone boutique preamps
• 4 studio-grade compressors with super-easy " one-knob" functionality and control LED for professional vocal and instrumental sound
• Wireless-ready for high-quality Behringer digital wireless system (available separately)
• Built-in stereo USB/Audio interface to connect directly to your computer. Free audio recording, editing, and podcasting software plus 150 instrument/effect plug-ins
• Neo-classic British-style 3-band EQs for warm and musical sound
• 2 aux sends per channel: 1 pre/post-fader switchable for monitoring/FX applications, 1 post-fader (for internal FX or as external send)
• Clip LEDs, mute/alt 3-4, solo, and PFL functions on all channels
• 2 subgroups with separate outputs for added routing flexibility
• 2 multi-functional stereo aux returns with flexible routing
• Balanced main mix outputs with gold-plated XLR connectors plus separate control room, headphones, and 2-track outputs
• Control room/phones outputs with multi-input source matrix
• Long-wearing 2.4" logarithmic-taper faders and sealed rotary controls
• Planet Earth switching power supply for maximum flexibility (100 to 240 VAC), noise-free audio, superior transient response plus low power consumption for energy saving

Sonically Superior Mic Preamps

The XENYX Q1204USB gets its name from the legendary, high-headroom XENYX mic preamps, which have been praised by audio engineers all over the world. These state-of-the-art mic pres represent a major step in the evolution of audio technology, and they can easily hold their own, even when compared to the most expensive stand-alone mic preamps. XENYX preamps offer a staggering 130 dB of dynamic range, with a bandwidth that extends from below 10 Hz to well above 200 kHz.

One-Knob Compression

Compression essentially limits the dynamic range of a signal, lowering the level of loud sounds and turning up softer sounds to achieve sonic balance. But applying compression is a delicate art that many novice, and even intermediate, sound techs find challenging. Behringer's " one-knob" compression is available on all mono channels and is easy to operate, even for entry-level users. With this one knob, you can easily dial in the perfect amount of compression for instruments and vocals, creating powerful mixes with punch and clarity. This is indeed a rare feature for products in this class, but standard on the XENYX Q1204USB mixer.

Musical British EQ

The British consoles of the 1960s and '70s changed the sound of rock and roll. Without them, the British Invasion might not have happened. Those legendary mixing desks soon became the envy of engineers and producers all over the world. The channel EQ on the XENYX mixers is based on that very same circuitry, allowing you to imbue signals with incredible warmth and detailed musical character. Even when applied generously, these equalizers exhibit sweet forgiveness and superb audio quality.

Recording Bliss

There was a time when the recording process called for lots and lots of expensive gear, which meant the average musician had to buy time at a recording studio, and that time was pricey indeed. But modern technology has put personal recording well within the reach of virtually anyone with access to a computer. How do you get all that music flying around your brain into your computer? That's where the XENYX 1204USB mixer comes in. Thanks to the included bidirectional stereo USB audio interface, you can connect directly to your PC or Mac computer via a single USB cable. Now any signal source you connect to the mixer can be recorded directly to your hard drive.