Behringer Xenyx 1204USB: 12-Channel Mixer with USB Interface
· re:union Radio editorial · 2 min read
The Behringer Xenyx 1204USB packs four mic preamps, "British" EQ, and a built-in USB interface into a compact analog desk.
The Behringer Xenyx 1204USB is an analog mixer with a built-in stereo USB audio interface, four microphone preamplifiers, and "British" EQ – designed by the manufacturer for live gigs just as much as for home recording at your computer.
At a glance
- 4 Xenyx microphone preamplifiers with 130 dB dynamic range
- Bandwidth from below 10 Hz to above 200 kHz
- "One-Knob" compressor on all mono channels
- Built-in bidirectional stereo USB audio interface
The Xenyx Preamps as Namesake
The desk takes its name from its Xenyx microphone preamplifiers. Behringer advertises them with 130 dB dynamic range and a bandwidth from below 10 Hz to above 200 kHz – specs that, according to the manufacturer, let the preamps compete with significantly more expensive standalone units. The goal: transparent, clear sound right at the mic input.
Compression with a Single Knob
According to Behringer, all mono channels feature a "One-Knob" compressor. The idea: dynamics processing, often considered a tricky art, should be manageable with a single control even for beginners – for vocals and instruments that need level consistency without having to balance multiple parameters against each other.
British EQ with Historical Pedigree
The tone controls reference British mixing consoles of the 1960s and 70s that, according to Behringer, helped shape the sound of rock 'n' roll. The Xenyx series' channel EQs are based on the same circuit topology, the manufacturer says, and should remain musical and forgiving even with heavy-handed tweaks.
USB Interface for Recording to Computer
Via a built-in bidirectional stereo USB audio interface, the mixer connects to a PC or Mac with a single USB cable. This allows, according to the manufacturer, any signal source connected to the mixer to be recorded directly to the hard drive – no separate audio interface required.
| Microphone Preamplifiers | 4× Xenyx Mic Preamp |
|---|---|
| Preamp Dynamic Range | 130 dB |
| Bandwidth | <10 Hz to >200 kHz |
| Compressor | "One-Knob", on all mono channels |
| EQ | "British" style, modeled on 1960s/70s consoles |
| USB Interface | bidirectional, stereo, single USB cable to PC/Mac |
"The channel EQ on our XENYX mixers is based on that very same circuitry [of the British consoles of the 1960s/70s], allowing you to imbue signals with incredible warmth and detailed musical character." – Behringer on the British EQ of the Xenyx series
FAQ
What is the Xenyx 1204USB made for?
Behringer positions the desk, according to its own statements, for both live gigs and home recordings – for instance for beginner setups looking for a compact analog mixer with computer connectivity.
What makes the "British" EQs special?
They draw on the circuit topology of British mixing consoles from the 1960s and 70s. When you dive into EQ mixing and push bass, mids, or highs, the manufacturer says you get a musical rather than harsh sound even with heavy use.
Source: Behringer, B&H Photo Video
