Behringer X AIR XR12
12-Input Digital Mixer for iPad/Android Tablets
The Behringer X AIR XR12 is a compact, rack-mountable digital mixer designed for studio and live applications. It offers 12 input channels, controlled wirelessly via iPad and Android tablets, featuring 4 award-winning MIDAS-designed microphone preamplifiers, integrated Wi-Fi, and a USB stereo recorder. Building on the success of the X32 console, the XR12 brings professional-grade features to a portable form factor.
The BEHRINGER X32 revolutionized digital mixing, and that technology is now integrated into the powerful, rack-mountable XR12. It is equally suited for live performance and studio recording, offering a new way to mix both live and in the studio.
Key Features
- iPad*/Android* Tablet Controlled: A 12-input digital mixer for studio and live applications, operated via tablet.
- MIDAS Preamps: 4 award-winning MIDAS-designed, fully programmable mic preamps deliver audiophile sound quality.
- Integrated Wi-Fi: Built-in Tri-Mode Wi-Fi router allows direct operation without external routers.
- Revolutionary Auto-Mixing: Dugan*-style Auto-Mixing automatically manages microphone gain sharing, reducing feedback and noise.
- USB Stereo Recording: A USB connector allows for uncompressed stereo WAV recording and playback.
- X32 Effects Rack: Features 4 true-stereo FX slots with high-end simulations like Lexicon 480L*, PCM70*, EMT250*, and Quantec QRS*.
- 100-Band RTA: A Real Time Analyzer is available for all channel and bus EQs, providing detailed frequency analysis.
- Rack Ears & Bumpers: Included for flexible rack mounting and onstage applications.
- Flexible Buses & EQ: 6 aux buses and main LR bus include inserts, full dynamics processing, and switchable 6-band parametric or 31-band graphic EQ.
- Outputs: 2 TRS aux outputs and 2 XLR main outputs, plus a phones connector.
- 40-Bit DSP: Features "unlimited" dynamic range with no internal overload and near-zero latency.
Built-In Tri-Mode Wi-Fi Router
The XR12's integrated Wi-Fi module enables direct control of mixer functions without an external router. It offers three modes:
- Access Point: Connects up to 4 clients directly (iPad, Android, laptop) for quick setup.
- Wi-Fi Client: Integrates the mixer into an existing wireless network.
- Wired Connection: Direct connection to a PC, LAN, or dedicated Wi-Fi router for extended range.
USB Connectivity and Stereo Recording
The front panel USB Type-A connector enables recording live stereo tracks directly to USB flash media or hard drives. It allows for dialing in the perfect live mix with effects and zero-latency, while simultaneously sending a dedicated stereo mix for recording or playback.
Revolutionary Auto-Mixing
For applications with multiple microphones (e.g., panel discussions, conferences), the X AIR Gain Sharing technology manages automated mixes. Based on the Dan Dugan automix system, it controls microphone levels in real-time without gating artifacts, reducing feedback and comb filtering issues.
4 Onboard X32 Effects Engines
Equipped with the same FX engines as the X32 console, the XR12 provides 4 true-stereo (8 mono) multi-effects processors. These include simulations of legendary studio effects like Lexicon 480L*, PCM70*, EMT250*, and Quantec QRS*. This onboard processing handles the heavy lifting, freeing up the computer from running DAW plugins.
High-End FX Racks at Your Finger Tips
The XR12 emulates several iconic audio processors:
- LEISURE COMPRESSOR: Modeled after the Teletronix LA-2A Leveling Amplifier, offering ultra-smooth optical compression.
- ULTIMO COMPRESSOR: Based on the Urei 1176LN Limiting Amplifier, capturing the character of its Class-A output stage and FET's fast attack.
- FAIR COMPRESSOR: Modeled after the Fairchild 670 tube compressor, providing rich coloration and dual/stereo-linked/M/S operation.
- COMBINATOR: A 5-band compressor emulating broadcasting and mastering units, featuring automatic parameter control and Spectral Balance Control (SBC).
- XTEC EQ1: Emulates the Pultec EQP-1a passive equalizer, known for its sound enhancement capabilities.
- XTEC EQ5: A mid-range focused parametric equalizer digitally rebuilt from the Pultec MEQ5.
- SUB OCTAVER: Generates sub-harmonics one or two octaves below the input signal, adjustable for various tracking applications.
- EDISON EX1: Manipulates the stereo field, offering selectable Mono or Stereo I/O modes.
- SOUND MAXER: Restores brilliance and clarity by adjusting phase and amplitude integrity, inspired by the Sonic Maximizer 482i.
- DIMENSIONAL CHORUS: Emulates a highly-regarded analog chorus unit, offering "space" and "dimension" effects.
- MODULATION DELAY: Combines delay, chorus, and reverb effects in one unit.
- ENHANCERS: Emphasizes Bass, Midrange, and Hi frequencies for punch, clarity, and detail, inspired by the SPL Vitalizer.
- EXCITERS: Increases presence and intelligibility, adding clarity, air, and harmonic overtones, inspired by the Aphex Aural Exciter.
- STEREO TruEQ: A 31-band graphic EQ providing precise frequency response and surgical filtering, modeled after the Behringer UltraCurve DEQ2496.
- VINTAGE ROOM: Models sound propagation and room resonances, inspired by the Quantec QRS.
- PLATE REVERB: Emulates plate reverb characteristics with controls for damping, modulation, and crossover, inspired by the Lexicon PCM70.
- 3-TAP DELAY: Records input signal and echoes it back with user-definable timing and repeats, useful for stereo and triple delay effects.
- HALL REVERB: Offers a broad spectrum of reverberation possibilities, from small rooms to large spaces, inspired by the Lexicon 480L.
- FLANGER & DELAY: A dynamic duo blending flanger and delay effects.
- WAVE DESIGNER: Adjusts signal transients and dynamics like attack and sustain, inspired by the SPL Transient Designer.
- STEREO PRECISION LIMITER: Sets precise volume limits and ensures signal integrity, inspired by the Sony Oxford Dynamics.
- DE-ESSER: Reduces sibilance in vocals while preserving timbre, inspired by SPL 1219.
- VINTAGE REVERB: A shimmering reverb inspired by the EMT250 Plate Reverb.
- CHORUS & CHAMBER: Combines chorus and chamber reverb characteristics.
100-Band RTA for all Channel/Bus EQ's
The XR12 includes a high-resolution 100-band Real Time Analyzer (RTA) with Bar and Spectrograph views. It displays audio energy distribution across 100 frequency bands over time, capturing a 10-second sonogram. The RTA can be viewed in full screen or combined with channel/bus EQ curves, and can also be displayed over the 31-band graphic EQs in the Main LR or Aux buses.
Uncompromised Channel Processing
Each input channel features Low-Cut, 4-band fully parametric EQ, and Gate/Compressor dynamics. Users can choose between 'Expert' mode for detailed control or 'Simple' mode with presets. The 40-bit floating-point DSP ensures virtually unlimited dynamic range and near-zero latency.
In addition to the Main L/R bus, 6 Aux buses are available for monitor mixes or dedicated recording mixes, each with inserts, dynamics, and EQ options. 100-band RTAs are also available for these buses.
MIDI In/Out for Live Performance Controllers
The physical MIDI I/O port allows connection of external MIDI controllers (e.g., BEHRINGER X-TOUCH, B-CONTROL) for dynamic control of channel level, muting, and panorama. The firmware supports the Mackie Control protocol for comprehensive remote editing.
Networked or MIDI Control via BEHRINGER X-TOUCH Surface
X AIR mixers and X-TOUCH control surfaces communicate via an optimized XCTL protocol for seamless access to mixer parameters. Individual channel LCDs display mixer channel color, name, and parameters. Connections can be made via MIDI I/O, Ethernet ports, or IP-based Wi-Fi/LAN networks.
Dedicated Apps and Software – All Platforms Covered
Dedicated development teams created remote control applications for iOS, Android, and PC/Linux/Mac. Future firmware updates are available free of charge from behringer.com.
- X AIR EDIT (PC/Mac/Linux/RPi): Free software for comprehensive computer control, mirroring all mixer functions on screen. Allows opening and scaling of app windows for routing or FX editing.
- X AIR App (iPad): Full mixer control directly from an iPad, allowing saving/loading scenes and presets, and customizing channel layout with drag 'n' drop.
- X AIR for Android: App for Android tablets and smartphones offering full mixing mode or personal monitor mix control via Aux buses.
- X AIR Q (Android): App specifically for personal monitor mixing, allowing performers to dial in their own IEM or wedge mixes. Supports MCA groups for controlling multiple signals at once.
Compose. Record. Mix. Share.
The XR12 includes a complimentary download code for Tracktion, a fast and easy Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). Tracktion offers features like dynamic automation, unlimited track count, and VST/AU plug-in support, providing tools for composing, recording, editing, and mixing music.
Register your XR12 at behringer.com to receive the Tracktion download code. Learn more at tracktion.com.
Stunning Performance – Superb Value
The XR12 is the result of a collaboration between MIDAS (engineering), KLARK TEKNIK (signal processing), and BEHRINGER (value proposition), aiming to deliver technically advanced audio products for discerning professionals.
Visit your local BEHRINGER dealer or get yours online today.
You Are Covered
BEHRINGER products are manufactured in MUSIC Group factories using state-of-the-art automation and quality assurance. The XR12 comes with a generous 3-Year Warranty program.
Contact Information
For service, support, or more information, contact the BEHRINGER location nearest you:
- Europe: MUSIC Group Services UK, Tel: +44 156 273 2290, Email: CARE@music-group.com
- USA/Canada: MUSIC Group Services NV Inc., Tel: +1 702 800 8290, Email: CARE@music-group.com
- Japan: MUSIC Group Services JP K.K., Tel: +81 3 6231 0454, Email: CARE@music-group.com
MUSIC Group accepts no liability for reliance on descriptions or statements herein. Technical specifications are subject to change. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. MIDAS, KLARK TEKNIK, BEHRINGER, and others are trademarks or registered trademarks of MUSIC Group IP Ltd. © MUSIC Group IP Ltd. 2017 All rights reserved.
Physical Description
The XR12 is a compact 1U rack-mountable unit. The front panel features 12 input channels (4 MIDAS mic preamps, 8 line inputs), main L/R outputs, 2 Aux outputs, a headphone jack, USB port, Wi-Fi antenna, and various status LEDs. The rear panel includes the AC power input, Ethernet port, and MIDI In/Out ports.
[Image: Front panel view of the Behringer X AIR XR12 mixer, showing input jacks, output jacks, USB port, Wi-Fi antenna, and control indicators.]
[Image: Rear panel view of the Behringer X AIR XR12 mixer, showing AC power input, Ethernet port, and MIDI In/Out ports.]
Effects Descriptions Summary
The XR12 offers a wide array of effects modeled after renowned studio processors, including various compressors (LA-2A, 1176LN, Fairchild styles), equalizers (Pultec styles, graphic EQ), modulation effects (Chorus, Flanger), delays, reverbs (Plate, Hall, Room), and dynamic processors (Exciter, Enhancer, Limiter, De-Esser).