Behringer Xenyx Series Question
Home > Home Recording Forum > Gear Gab > Behringer Xenyx Series Question
Posted on Feb 18, 2007 07:13 am
Whysman
Member Since: Feb 18, 2007
Hello all, I have been looking at buying a mixer recently and I found the Behringer Xenyx series to be quite affordable. I am looking at getting either a 2222FX or 2442FX. My question is, if I were recording a jamming session, would I be able to have each track recorded to the PC individually so that I can edit each track on the PC? If not, what mixers or what can I do?
Thank You,
Whysman
[ Back to Top ]
Feb 19, 2007 05:25 am After doing research I now know it's not possible for anything with USB interface to do multi-tracking. However, is it possible that I could instead plug the mixer into an interface such as an M-Audio Delta 10/10 so that I can do multi-track recording? (Sorry if I've got something wrong, I have no past experiences with home recording)
Feb 19, 2007 05:31 am Quote:
After doing research I now know it's not possible for anything with USB interface to do multi-tracking.
So, what research told you that? It's totally not true...
Feb 19, 2007 06:17 am I seriously have no idea about mixing and recording which is why I asked here. All the people I've talked to at stores never really mentioned much on the different interfaces, I didn't even know they existed...
Mar 09, 2007 06:14 am Hi, I have a Behringer Xenyx1204, and so far have had no luck whatsoever in using it for multitrack recording. I think that the only thing the Xenyx series might be ok for is PA to be honest. The Xenyx desks come with a U-Control UCA200 USB link up device which links the CD/Tape input/outputs on the desk to a USB port on your computer. I've tried many, many different methods of setting the this equipment up and can't seem to get any results. With these desks it seem you can only record one channel at a time, so unfortunately I don't think its possible to mulittrack record with them. So I wouldn't reccomend them.
But if anyone wants to prove me wrong and tell me how it is possible to multitrack record with this equipment, I would really appreciate it. I'd love to how to get this equipment to work properly if it actually can.
pjkPrince CZAR-mingMember
Since: Apr 08, 2004
Mar 09, 2007 10:39 am Seems a lot of USB devices only will carry 2 channels. I think there's a few that will carry more, but I can't remember which one(s).
Yes, you could send 8 signals from the mixer to a delta 1010. Each would be separate inside the PC, for mixing later.
There's also the firewire/mixer solution. I think the I/O 26 will do that. I think there's phonic helix boards that will do that too.
For more $$$, there's the mackie boards, that you can insert firewire cards into, but you're getting up towards 1k$ for that solution.
Tim NUh, at least one more time . . .Member
Since: Feb 07, 2007
Mar 18, 2007 02:23 pm Absolutely you can multitrack with the Behringer 2442 series (I have an old 2442A). The problem here is the interface for the computer. You need one that will take, say, eight outs from the Behringer and send those eight channels to the DAW in the computer.
The 2442 Xenyx has full routing capabilities (Via the insert/send jacks), just like my old 2442A. In other words, all channel signals can be sent out, in addition to submixes. I'm sure this is in the manual. For $100.00 U.S., you can buy Behringer's patchbay and dramatically increase your signal-sending (and receiving)capabilities.
Any large desk is going to have these send/return jacks. The 1202 will only send out stereo (or two channels discrete). I have two smaller Behringer mixers ganged together, so at the moment I can send out 4 channels discrete, though my sound card only takes two.
The main thing here is the soundcard or interface for the computer. If it takes ten in, the 2442 will give it ten (and then some). You'll need the cables for all of this, of course.
The USB hook-up is basically just a convenient way to send a stereo mix from the desk, whether its a 2442 or a 1202.
My advice is to mix your band in stereo to the computer, Whysman. Buy the Behringer 2442; use it for live work, whether at your rehearsal space or live out somewhere. Practice mixing and tweaking your rehearsed performances by listening to the mixes afterwards. That way you will come to understand how the board works. We've been doing that for a while now, and the mixes, with practice, sound better and better. We mix severall channels down to stereo and send that into the DAW. We (I) listen afterwards (burn a quick CD) and then adjust accordingly. It takes a while to get things right, but I now know that console up and down. I now know what it takes to get a good mixed sound live. The sound you hear is the the stereo signal that goes out to the audience in a live situation. Also, be sure to use the aux send busses to send monitor mixes to the band members. Get everyone their own little amp so the can raise or lower their mixes themselves. Want even more flexibility? Everyone has their own small mixer at their fingertips, hooked up to the aux busses, and also the stereo
line in. That way you can add things like processors that you control individually.
I'm sorry this post is so long, and no, I don't work for Behringer.
kord1Member
Since: Mar 23, 2007
Mar 26, 2007 11:52 pm whysman-
I just got the Xenyx 2242 and was frustrated trying to get their USB interface working. When I finally did it only did max 2 Channels. Wanting to record our band live I decided to get the Delta 1010LT. With this card you can take the DirectOut for each 2242 Chan to its own input port on the 1010LT.. Still working on finding a straightforward recording application. I have tried several of the demos (protools, ableton,Sonar) and each of them has no problem "seeing" the card and the input/output ports. Good luck..
Feb 01, 2008 03:48 pm Hello. I recently purchased Xenyx2222Fx which came with UCA200. I am a first time mixer buyer and am having difficulty with wiring all the stuff together.
This is what I have now:
CD/TAPE output to Interface's input; vice versa
Control Rm out to two monitors
Line In 9/10 to my keyboard output L and R
Line in 9/10 solo button pressed
Source panel - CD/TAPE to Phones/Control Room
Is this correct? I don't think so because the computer cannot recognize my input.
I am using Audacity and Garageband with Mac.
I have made appropriate setups in the computer.
Please help me.
Thanks.
Feb 24, 2010 09:08 am Hi, i have also had the same problem with getting the signals separated with the 2222fx. i was just wondering whether its possible to connect the patchbay to the my mac? or do i need an external sound card as well?
pjkPrince CZAR-mingMember
Since: Apr 08, 2004
Feb 24, 2010 03:57 pm Using a mixer for it's preamps, then wanting to send each individual signal to the PC, will require a sound card that has multiple inputs; 1 for each track you want to record. So, the UCA series devices will only transfer 2 individual signals.
To capture more than that, you'll need an interface that has MORE inputs than 2. Examples include the Maudio Delta line: Delta44, Delta66, Delta 1010LT, Delta 1010. The first 2 having 4 inputs, the second two having 8 inputs (usable). These devices are PCI, so you'd need a free PCI slot, which is getting more and more rare =/. Those are common, though there are many other brands/types.
Also, you can use firewire, like the TASCAM 1641, presonus firepod/firebox/firestudio, MOTU 8pre, etc.
Also, you can use something USB like the LINE6 UX8, or others.
To keep the signals separate coming from those mixers, use Direct Outs if your mixer has them. If not, then you can use Channel Inserts on each channel, but put a 1/4" plug into the jack up to the first indent, not all the way in. This way you'll have direct out for each channel.
Bao, I think the UCA things show up as some sort of 'Codec' device in your software.
Feb 25, 2010 03:23 am Deleted By pipedreams
Feb 26, 2010 07:47 pm I withdraw my statement.
I wouldn't reccomend any kind of Behringer mixer now.
But I recorded for 6 months with one and was satisfied, it's all a matter of preference. If it sounds good to you, go with it.
enrikiMember
Since: Jul 09, 2010
Jul 09, 2010 08:28 am Hi! I have Xenyx x2222USB and idea was to do multitrack recording (as mentioned above). So, finally, is it possible or definitely not? As I see in replies, I can connect slightly to 1/4 deep the jack in to CHANNEL INSERTS connections and link it to audio card. If for example I have some card with many inputs, I can wired all my Inserts / Send connections from Xenyx to sound card and do multitrack recording? Is it right?
Tim NUh, at least one more time . . .Member
Since: Feb 07, 2007
Jul 11, 2010 11:55 am Yes, that's right. The USB connection in this case only carries the stereo signal, the Main Out.
pjkPrince CZAR-mingMember
Since: Apr 08, 2004
Jul 11, 2010 12:22 pm Quote:
If for example I have some card with many inputs
Yep, you'll need something with more inputs, like the 1010lt mentioned above.
the usb device that comes with the mixer only has 2 inputs, and 2 outputs.
enrikiMember
Since: Jul 09, 2010
Jul 16, 2010 07:36 am Thanks for your reply! Only one thing, sorry for my stupid questions, does it mean that CHANNEL INSERTS connection has provide good OUTPUT signal from the channel? I think before that inserts connections using for external effects connection. And is it very important to plug the jack no more than 1/4 inside to receive a signal on audio card? So, if it's works it will make me and my band really happy...
pjkPrince CZAR-mingMember
Since: Apr 08, 2004
Jul 20, 2010 01:04 pm Yes indeed. There is good phat signal coming out from the channel inserts, actually, possibly slightly better than what's coming out the mains, because, the signal coming out from the channels inserts is tapped out RIGHT AFTER the preamps, not at the end of the mixer chain. So there's less components to run through, possibly affecting signal.
Yes, basic use of the channel inserts if for 'inserting' a device inline with the signal, so you can COMPLETELY send signal through a device. An example of a 100% device may be a limiter, or compressor, where you don't want any un-affected signal going around the device.
The reason you don't want to fully insert the plug, is that if you do so, you will break the signal from going through the rest of the mixer. This is normal for when you're using an inserted device. But in our scenario, we don't want to break the signal, instead we want the signal(s) to keep on going through the mixer, so we can monitor the signals coming out the MAINS. Also, fully inserting the plug would put the signal on the ring of the plug, not on the tip, so you wouldn't hear anything.
So just up to the first indent, then you'll have signal coming out of the insert, plus have the individual signals going to the rest of the mixer, just like before.
I just put some very similar information in another thread, listed here: www.homerecordingconnecti...20236&frm=1
Take a look at that thread for a pic of cable snake to connect from mixer to interface, plus some output routing ideas to have all signals inside the mixer, for your (and bandmates) use.
And, not a stupid question at all, we've all been there, and asked questions, so it's all good.
Have fun.
AriesMember
Since: Aug 06, 2010
Aug 06, 2010 05:58 pm Aug 06, 2010 05:32 pm
Hi All,
I recently purchased the abovementioned desk, besides the fact that I was miserably disappointed to find out that multi-track / recording independant signals from various channels is not possible without forking out more cash for a sound card, I am having issues with the rca stereo output - according to the manual, one should be able to connect the rca out to a tape deck etc... however the signal is so weak there is no way that would possibly record anything. IE i am trying to use the stereo rca out to send the signal to my monitoring system (amp & speakers) but not having much joy - I returned one mixer already with the same problem & am now on x1222 number two, still battling the same problem - am i being daft & not understanding the purpose of this connection or is my gear faulty?? help please
pjkPrince CZAR-mingMember
Since: Apr 08, 2004
Aug 08, 2010 08:23 am Without getting into the nuts and bolts, I'd say that the stereo out should be LINE level, just like the MAINS out.
If you haven't already, try hooking from the MAINS out to the same monitor inputs, and see if the problem is still present. If it is, then the problem looks to be in your monitor input / system.
But, if the MAINS -> Monitor system is fine, then there's something funny with the RCA out, like you said.
Maybe there's some levels setting that you've overlooked, but probably not. I don't think there's too much to tinker with on those mixers.
I've heard that the behringer support system is very good. I've seen quite a few people call them (tech support) and get decent resolution. I've not called them myself, but hopefully they can get you set up and working right.
Hope that helps.
Tim NUh, at least one more time . . .Member
Since: Feb 07, 2007
Aug 08, 2010 04:18 pm It's unlikely that two desks are faulty. (Though not impossible with Behringer--I bought and returned three Headphone amps from them, at Guitar Center. They were all bad! Yeah, I gave up after number three.) The Tape Out carries the same signal as the Main Outs, so if you're getting a good signal on the meters, you should be getting a useable signal at Tape Out, one that will drive the inputs on your stereo or monitoring system. Like pjk said, try routing the Main Out signal to your system: get a cable that has RCAs at one end and 1/4 inch jacks at the other. If this provides the necessary voltage, and the Tape Outs don't, you know that the Tape Outs are malfunctioning. Also, try running the signal from the Control Room Out to your stereo--this should work as well. Just be careful with the amount of signal your running (in all cases). Too much will cause distortion and could damage the Inputs of your stereo system.
You don't mention how much signal you're sending to the Tape Outs--if the Main Mix signal is barely showing up on the meters, then very little signal is going out, anywhere, except for the Control Room, which has it's own level control (the same knob controls the headphone level). So, you might hear the sound loud and clear on the 'phones, but very little is going out to the stereo. I hope this helps.
No matter what, you should get a patchbay--they're cheap (especially on E-bay), and vital for super-flexible routing options. You'll need to buy various patch cables, but it's worth it, believe me.
