Behringer Xenyx 1202 User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Behringer Xenyx 1202 analog mixer. The Xenyx 1202 is a premium ultra-low noise, high headroom analog mixer designed for various audio applications, featuring Xenyx mic preamps and British EQs.

Important Safety Instructions

• Read these instructions carefully before operating the unit.
• Keep these instructions for future reference.
• Heed all warnings on the product and in the operating instructions.
• Do not use this apparatus near water or in excessively humid environments.
• Clean only with a dry cloth.
• Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
• Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
• Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
• Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

What's in the Box

• Behringer Xenyx 1202 Mixer
• Power Supply Unit
• User Manual (this document)

Product Overview

The Behringer Xenyx 1202 features a compact design with intuitive controls for easy operation. Below are images illustrating the mixer's layout and various connection points.

Figure 1: Top view of the Behringer Xenyx 1202 mixer, highlighting the microphone inputs, line inputs, EQ sections, and main mix controls.

Figure 2: Angled view of the Behringer Xenyx 1202, providing a perspective on its overall dimensions and the arrangement of its various knobs and faders.

Front Panel Controls

• XENYX Mic Preamps: Four high-quality microphone preamps with XLR inputs for channels 1-4.
• Line Inputs: 1/4" TRS balanced/unbalanced inputs for all channels. Channels 5-12 are stereo pairs.
• Gain Control: Adjusts the input sensitivity for microphone and line inputs.
• 3-Band EQ: High, Mid, and Low frequency controls on each mono channel for tone shaping.
• FX Send: Sends signal to an external effects processor.
• Pan/Balance: Positions the signal in the stereo field.
• Level Controls: Adjusts the output level of individual channels.
• Phantom Power (+48V): Supplies power to condenser microphones. Activated via a switch on the main section.
• Main Mix Fader: Controls the overall output level of the main stereo mix.
• Phones/Control Room: Dedicated output for headphones and control room monitors.

Setup

Follow these steps to set up your Xenyx 1202 mixer for initial use.

Figure 3: Rear view of the Behringer Xenyx 1202, displaying the power input, main outputs, control room outputs, and 2-track I/O.

1. Power Connection: Connect the supplied power adapter to the DC IN socket on the rear panel of the mixer. Plug the adapter into a suitable power outlet. Note: The unit does not have a dedicated on/off switch; it powers on when connected to the mains.
2. Main Outputs: Connect your main speakers or amplifier to the MAIN OUT (L/R) 1/4" TRS jacks on the rear panel.
3. Control Room/Phones: Connect your studio monitors to the CTRL ROOM OUT (L/R) 1/4" TRS jacks and your headphones to the PHONES 1/4" TRS jack.
4. Microphone Inputs: For microphones, connect XLR cables to the MIC inputs (channels 1-4). If using condenser microphones, ensure +48V Phantom Power is engaged (see Operating Instructions).
5. Line Inputs: Connect instruments, keyboards, or other audio devices to the LINE IN 1/4" TRS jacks. Use channels 5-12 for stereo sources.
6. 2-Track I/O: Use the 2-TR IN/OUT RCA connectors for connecting external recording devices or playback sources like CD players.

Operating Instructions

Basic Mixing

1. Initial Settings: Before powering on, ensure all GAIN controls are at minimum, all channel LEVEL controls are at minimum, and the MAIN MIX fader is at minimum.
2. Connect Sources: Plug in your microphones, instruments, and other audio sources as described in the Setup section.
3. Power On: Connect the mixer's power adapter to a power outlet.
4. Set Gain: For each active channel, gradually increase the GAIN control while speaking into the microphone or playing the instrument. Observe the CLIP LED; it should only flash occasionally on the loudest peaks. Adjust GAIN until the signal is strong without clipping.
5. Adjust Channel Level: Slowly raise the channel LEVEL control for each active input to bring the signal into the mix.
6. Use EQ: Adjust the HIGH, MID, and LOW EQ controls to shape the tone of each channel.
7. Pan/Balance: Use the PAN control (mono channels) or BALANCE control (stereo channels) to position the sound in the stereo field.
8. Main Mix: Slowly raise the MAIN MIX fader to bring up the overall volume of your mix. Monitor the main output level meters to avoid clipping.

Phantom Power (+48V)

The Xenyx 1202 provides +48V phantom power for condenser microphones. To activate, ensure all microphone channels are muted or their levels are turned down, then press the PHANTOM switch located in the main section. The corresponding LED will illuminate. Always turn off phantom power before connecting or disconnecting condenser microphones to prevent damage.

FX Send

The FX SEND control on each channel allows you to send a portion of that channel's signal to an external effects processor. Connect the FX SEND jack on the mixer to the input of your effects unit. Return the processed signal from your effects unit's output to one of the stereo line inputs (e.g., channels 7/8 or 9/10) on the mixer.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: Disconnect the mixer from power before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the surface. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols.
• Ventilation: Ensure the ventilation openings are clear of dust and debris to prevent overheating.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the mixer in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Power Supply: Handle the power supply and its connection carefully. Repeatedly wiggling or stressing the connection can lead to wear.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Behringer products are designed for reliability and performance. For specific warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Behringer website. Warranty terms may vary by region.

For technical support, service, or spare parts, please contact your local Behringer distributor or authorized service center. You can also find additional resources and FAQs on the Behringer official website.

For a downloadable PDF version of the user manual, please visit: Behringer Xenyx 1202 User Manual (PDF)