Soundcraft Ui24R vs Behringer XR18: Which Digital Mixer Is Right for You?

When it comes to live sound mixing and studio recording, choosing the right digital mixer is crucial for achieving top-quality audio and efficient workflow. Two standout options in the market today are the Soundcraft Ui24R and the Behringer XAir XR18. Both mixers offer impressive features, wireless control, and high-quality audio processing, but they cater to different needs and preferences. In this comparison, we’ll dive into the key features, pros, and cons of both products to help you decide which one best suits your requirements, whether you’re a professional sound engineer, a musician, or a live event organizer.

1. Soundcraft Ui24R 24 input Digital Mixer

The Soundcraft Ui24R is a versatile, rack-mountable digital mixer that offers exceptional audio quality and a wealth of connectivity options, making it a solid choice for professionals in live sound and recording environments. One of its standout features is its wireless control capability, allowing users to manage the mixer from up to 10 devices, including tablets, smartphones, and laptops, using both Wi-Fi and Ethernet. This flexibility means sound engineers can make adjustments from anywhere in the venue, ensuring optimal audio quality during performances. Additionally, the Ui24R comes equipped with a range of built-in signal processing from dbx, DigiTech, and Lexicon, including automatic feedback suppression and guitar amp modeling, offering excellent sound enhancement for various audio sources. The mixer’s multi-track recording ability, combined with its comprehensive I/O options, makes it a great tool for both live sound and studio recordings.

However, while the Ui24R offers incredible features and ease of use, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. The mixer’s Wi-Fi connectivity has been reported to occasionally experience issues, which can impact reliability, especially in larger or more crowded venues. Additionally, its user interface, while intuitive, can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming for those unfamiliar with digital mixers. Lastly, despite its compact design, the device’s price point may be higher than similar products in its category, which could be a concern for smaller setups or those with limited budgets.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. Wireless control via Wi-Fi and Ethernet for up to 10 devices.
2. Built-in signal processing from dbx, DigiTech, and Lexicon.
3. Multi-track recording capabilities for all inputs and the stereo mix.
4. 24 input channels with a variety of connection options (XLR, TRS, USB).
5. Snapshot recall system for saving and recalling custom settings.

Pros:

1. High-quality audio with Studer-designed preamps and professional-grade effects.
2. Flexible control from multiple devices simultaneously.
3. Multi-track recording directly to USB or a connected computer.
4. Robust connectivity options with both Wi-Fi and Ethernet support.
5. Compact and roadworthy design for easy transport and integration.

Cons:

1. High price point.

2. Behringer XAir XR18 Digital Mixer

The Behringer XAir XR18 is a powerful and compact 18-input, 12-bus digital mixer that offers remarkable flexibility for both live performances and studio applications. Its most notable feature is its wireless control, enabling users to manage the mixer directly via iPad or Android tablets without needing external routers. This makes it a great choice for on-the-go use, allowing the sound engineer to move freely throughout the venue. The integration of 16 Midas-designed mic preamps guarantees audiophile-quality sound, and the device also includes a bidirectional USB interface for direct recording to an iPad or PC, providing a convenient and streamlined recording process. Additionally, the revolutionary Dugan-style Auto-Mixing technology helps manage microphone gain sharing automatically, a significant advantage for events with multiple open microphones, such as panel discussions or conferences.

Despite its impressive features, the XR18 does have some drawbacks. Users have reported occasional connectivity issues with the built-in Wi-Fi, experiencing frequent disconnections and latency, which can be problematic during live events. While the tablet-controlled interface is generally intuitive, it may not be ideal for users who prefer traditional, hands-on control over the mixer. Moreover, although the price point is reasonable given its feature set, those seeking a more stable connection might need to invest in external Wi-Fi equipment.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. Wireless control via iPad/Android tablets with an integrated Wi-Fi router.
2. 16 Midas-designed programmable mic preamps for high-quality sound.
3. 18×18 bidirectional USB interface for direct recording.
4. Dugan-style Auto-Mixing technology for automatic gain sharing.
5. Multi-effects processing and 100-band real-time analyzer for precise sound control.

Pros:

1. Compact and portable design, ideal for live and studio use.
2. Excellent sound quality with Midas mic preamps.
3. Built-in Wi-Fi eliminates the need for external routers.
4. Simple to set up and operate with intuitive tablet apps.
5. Direct USB recording to iPad or PC, streamlining the recording process.

Cons:

1. Lack of physical control options may be inconvenient for some users.

Soundcraft Ui24R vs Behringer XR18: Detailed Comparison

When comparing two high-performance digital mixers like the Soundcraft Ui24R and the Behringer XAir XR18, it’s important to consider various factors such as connectivity options, audio quality, control flexibility, features, and overall usability. Both mixers are designed for live performances and studio applications, but each has unique strengths that cater to different needs and workflows.

Connectivity and Control Options

One of the major points of differentiation between these two products lies in their connectivity and control options. The Soundcraft Ui24R offers a dual-band Wi-Fi system that allows up to 10 devices to connect simultaneously, providing full wireless control via tablets, smartphones, and PCs (iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, Linux). It also includes Ethernet connectivity, allowing for even more stable control in larger venues. This wireless control flexibility is a big advantage for sound engineers who need mobility during live performances. Additionally, the Ui24R has multiple input and output options, including XLR, TRS, USB, and more, which make it versatile for different setups.

On the other hand, the Behringer XR18 features a built-in tri-mode Wi-Fi router for direct control, eliminating the need for external routers. This makes it a convenient solution for portable setups and small venues. The XR18 also supports wireless control via iPad or Android tablets, with the added benefit of an 18×18 bidirectional USB interface for direct recording on iPads, PCs, or other connected devices. While both mixers offer wireless control, the XR18 focuses more on simplifying the setup with its integrated router, but users may experience occasional Wi-Fi connectivity issues as noted in reviews.

Feature	Soundcraft Ui24R	Behringer XR18
Wireless Control	Dual-band Wi-Fi, up to 10 devices	Built-in tri-mode Wi-Fi router, 1 device per router
Ethernet Connectivity	Yes, provides stable wired control	No dedicated Ethernet port
USB Interface	Multi-track recording, USB playback	18×18 bi-directional USB interface for recording
Device Compatibility	iOS, Android, Windows, Mac OS, Linux	iPad, Android, PC, Mac OS, Linux

Audio Quality and Processing

Both mixers feature top-tier audio processing, but the Soundcraft Ui24R stands out with its Studer-designed preamps and integrated signal processing from Lexicon, dbx, and DigiTech, ensuring professional-grade audio quality. The Ui24R supports real-time frequency analyzers, 31-band graphic EQs, and built-in effects such as reverb, delay, and chorus, making it suitable for a wide range of sound design needs.

The Behringer XR18, however, takes audio processing a step further by incorporating Midas-designed mic preamps (known for their pristine audio quality), and 4 onboard X32 effects engines for high-quality processing and effects. The XR18 also features the Dugan-style Auto-Mixing technology, which automatically manages microphone gain sharing, ideal for situations with multiple open mics, such as panel discussions or conferences.

Feature	Soundcraft Ui24R	Behringer XR18
Mic Preamps	Studer-designed preamps	Midas-designed preamps
Signal Processing	dbx, DigiTech, Lexicon (reverb, delay, etc.)	4 onboard X32 effects engines, Auto-mixing
Effects	Reverb, Delay, Chorus, Noise gate, Compressor	Delay, Chorus, Dynamics, Reverb, EQ
Frequency Analysis	Real-time analyzer, 31-band graphic EQ	100-band Real-Time Analyzer (RTA)

Inputs, Outputs, and Recording

In terms of inputs and outputs, the Soundcraft Ui24R offers 24 input channels (including 10 XLR/Combo inputs), making it suitable for larger setups and live sound applications. The mixer supports multi-track recording directly to a USB storage device or computer, allowing up to 22 inputs plus a stereo mix. This feature is beneficial for venues that require multi-track recording for post-production.

The Behringer XR18 has 18 input channels, which are sufficient for most live setups, but it doesn’t quite match the Ui24R in terms of channel count. However, the XR18’s 18×18 USB interface is a big plus for those who need direct recording, as it allows for seamless integration with a DAW for multi-track recording. The XR18 also has 16 channels of personal monitoring, which can be a game-changer in live performance situations where performers need custom mixes.

Feature	Soundcraft Ui24R	Behringer XR18
Number of Inputs	24 inputs, 10 XLR/Combo, 2 USB	18 inputs, 16 Midas preamps
Recording	Multi-track recording (22 inputs + stereo)	18×18 bi-directional USB recording
Outputs	4 XLR Aux, stereo main outputs	16 channels of personal monitoring

Usability and Control

The Soundcraft Ui24R is known for its user-friendly interface, with intuitive wireless control from tablets, PCs, and smartphones. However, its layout can feel overwhelming to users unfamiliar with digital mixing, as it lacks physical control options like faders and knobs.

The Behringer XR18 also relies on tablet control via its app, and many users find it to be highly intuitive, especially with the added bonus of its onboard X32 effects engine. Its MIDI control options also allow external devices to adjust parameters, making it a flexible choice for users who need more hands-on control. While the XR18 offers excellent portability and ease of use, it too can be limiting for users who prefer traditional, tactile control over a mix.

Feature	Soundcraft Ui24R	Behringer XR18
Control Interface	Tablet/PC/Smartphone (no physical controls)	Tablet/PC/Smartphone, MIDI control
Ease of Use	Intuitive interface, but overwhelming for beginners	Intuitive app, user-friendly control

FAQ

What is the difference in input channels between the Soundcraft Ui24R and Behringer XR18?

The Soundcraft Ui24R offers 24 input channels, making it a more versatile option for larger setups that require more microphones, instruments, or other audio sources. This mixer is designed to handle a wider range of input devices, making it suitable for events or studios where multiple audio sources are used simultaneously. In contrast, the Behringer XR18 provides 18 input channels, which are still ample for many live performances or smaller studio environments, but it may not be as ideal for setups requiring more than 18 sources.

Can I control these mixers remotely?

Yes, both the Soundcraft Ui24R and Behringer XR18 offer wireless control, but they handle it differently. The Soundcraft Ui24R provides dual-band Wi-Fi, supporting up to 10 devices simultaneously, which can be tablets, smartphones, or computers. This flexibility makes it easier to control the mixer from anywhere in the venue. The Behringer XR18 comes with a built-in tri-mode Wi-Fi router, meaning you don’t need external equipment to manage your mix wirelessly. However, it supports fewer devices at a time, which may limit its functionality in larger settings.

Which mixer has better sound quality?

Both mixers offer excellent sound quality, but the Soundcraft Ui24R is often considered superior in terms of audio processing. It includes Studer-designed preamps and built-in effects from Lexicon, dbx, and DigiTech, providing rich and pristine audio. On the other hand, the Behringer XR18 uses Midas-designed preamps, which are also highly regarded in the audio industry. While both mixers produce high-quality sound, the Ui24R offers more advanced signal processing tools, which can be a deciding factor for those seeking a more refined audio experience.

Are these mixers suitable for recording?

Both mixers are capable of multi-track recording, but the Behringer XR18 offers a more straightforward approach with its 18×18 bidirectional USB interface, allowing you to record directly to an iPad or PC. This makes it an excellent choice for recording live events or studio sessions. The Soundcraft Ui24R also supports multi-track recording, but with a larger input count of up to 22 inputs plus the stereo mix, making it a better option for larger recording setups.

What are the main drawbacks of these mixers?

The Soundcraft Ui24R’s main drawbacks include occasional connectivity issues when using Wi-Fi in large venues and a somewhat overwhelming user interface for beginners, as it lacks physical controls. The Behringer XR18, while portable and easy to use, can also experience Wi-Fi disconnections or latency problems during wireless operation. Additionally, users may find the lack of physical controls limiting if they prefer tactile adjustments over a tablet-based interface.

Conclusion

Both the Soundcraft Ui24R and Behringer XR18 offer powerful capabilities for live sound mixing and studio recording. The Soundcraft Ui24R excels in its audio quality, extensive signal processing, and 24 input channels, making it perfect for larger, more complex setups. On the other hand, the Behringer XR18 shines in its ease of use, integrated Wi-Fi router, and Midas preamps, making it a more portable option with robust features suited to both live sound and recording.