Behringer X-Touch Compact

1. Introduction

The Behringer X-Touch Compact is a versatile USB/MIDI controller designed to provide precise, hands-on control over your digital audio workstation (DAW), virtual instruments, and effects. It features a robust design with touch-sensitive motorized faders, rotary encoders with LED collars, and illuminated buttons, enhancing your workflow and creative process.

This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your X-Touch Compact controller.

2. Safety Instructions

• Power Supply: Use only the specified power adapter. Ensure the voltage matches your region's requirements.
• Moisture: Do not expose the unit to rain, moisture, or liquids. Avoid placing liquid-filled objects on the device.
• Heat: Keep the unit away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other heat-producing appliances.
• Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation. Do not block any ventilation openings.
• Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth. Avoid using solvents or abrasive cleaners.
• Servicing: Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

3. Product Features

• 9 touch-sensitive motorized faders for dynamic and precise control.
• 16 rotary encoders with LED collars for on-the-fly adjustments of parameters.
• 39 illuminated buttons providing clear visual feedback and direct access to functions.
• Built-in Mackie Control emulation for near-universal compatibility with major DAWs.
• USB/MIDI connectivity for flexible integration into your studio setup.

4. Setup

The X-Touch Compact is designed for easy setup and instant operation. Follow these steps to connect your controller:

1. Power Connection: Connect the included power adapter to the 'DC IN' port on the rear panel of the X-Touch Compact and then to a power outlet.
2. USB Connection: Connect the X-Touch Compact to your computer using a standard USB cable. The unit is USB class-compliant, meaning no specific drivers are usually required for basic functionality.
3. DAW Configuration: Open your preferred Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software. Navigate to the MIDI or Control Surfaces settings. Select 'Behringer X-Touch Compact' as a control surface, typically using the Mackie Control (MC) protocol for broad compatibility. Refer to your DAW's manual for specific instructions on adding control surfaces.

Figure 1: Behringer X-Touch Compact USB/MIDI Controller. This image displays the full layout of the controller, including faders, rotary encoders, and buttons.

5. Operating Instructions

The X-Touch Compact offers intuitive control over your DAW. Here's a breakdown of its main operational elements:

5.1. Motorized Faders

The 9 touch-sensitive motorized faders (8 channel faders + 1 master fader) provide dynamic control over track volumes and other parameters. When you switch between tracks or banks in your DAW, the faders will automatically adjust to reflect the current settings, offering a true hands-on mixing experience.

Figure 2: Close-up view of the motorized faders on the X-Touch Compact, showing their precise level indicators.

5.2. Rotary Encoders

The 16 rotary encoders, each with an LED collar, allow for fine-tuning of various parameters such as pan, send levels, EQ, and plug-in controls. The LED collars provide visual feedback on the current parameter value.

Figure 3: Detailed view of the rotary encoders and associated buttons, highlighting their illuminated feedback.

5.3. Illuminated Buttons

The 39 illuminated buttons provide direct access to common DAW functions like solo, mute, record arm, transport controls (play, stop, record), and navigation. Their illumination status indicates the current state of the function.

5.4. Transport Controls

Dedicated transport controls allow you to manage playback, recording, and navigation within your DAW without needing to touch your computer keyboard or mouse.

5.5. DAW Integration

The X-Touch Compact is pre-configured to work with most major DAWs via Mackie Control emulation. This allows for seamless integration and immediate control over your software's mixer, transport, and other functions.

6. Troubleshooting

• No Power: Ensure the power adapter is securely connected to both the unit and a working power outlet.
• Not Recognized by DAW: Verify the USB cable connection. Check your DAW's MIDI/Control Surface settings to ensure the X-Touch Compact is selected and configured correctly (e.g., using Mackie Control protocol). Try restarting your DAW and computer.
• Faders Not Moving/Responding: Confirm that the unit is properly connected and recognized by your DAW. Check if the faders are in the correct mode (e.g., Read/Write automation).
• Controls Not Working as Expected: Ensure your DAW is configured to use the correct control surface protocol. Some DAWs may require specific setup steps for full functionality.

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the surface of the unit. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the finish or controls.
• Storage: When not in use, store the X-Touch Compact in a clean, dry environment away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
• Handling: Avoid dropping or subjecting the unit to strong impacts, as this can damage internal components.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Behringer website or contact your authorized Behringer dealer. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.