Behringer Xenyx 1204USB, Xenyx X1204USB User Manual

User Manual

XENYX

X1204USB

Premium 12-Input 2/2-Bus Mixer with XENYX Mic Preamps & Compressors,
British EQs, 24-Bit Multi-FX Processor and USB/Audio Interface

1204USB

Premium 12-Input 2/2-Bus Mixer with XENYX Mic Preamps & Compressors,
British EQs and USB/Audio Interface

2 XENYX X1204USB/1204USB User Manual

Table of Contents

Thank you .......................................................................2

Important Safety Instructions ...................................... 3

Legal Disclaimer ............................................................. 3

Limited warranty ............................................................ 3

1. Introduction ............................................................... 4

1.1 General mixing console functions ................................ 4

1.2 The user’s manual ............................................................... 4

1.3 Before you get started ...................................................... 4

2. Control Elements and Connectors ........................... 4

2.1 Mono channels .................................................................... 4

2.2 Stereo channels ................................................................... 6

2.3 Connector panel and main section ............................. 6

2.4 Rear view of 1204USB/X1204USB .................................. 9

3. Digital Eects Processor ......................................... 10

4. Installation ............................................................... 10

4.1 Rack mounting ................................................................... 10

4.2 Cable connections ........................................................... 10

5. Specications ........................................................... 12

Thank you

Congratulations! In purchasing the BEHRINGER XENYX you have acquired a mixer
whose small size belies its incredible versatility and audio performance.

The XENYX Series represents a milestone in the development of mixing console
technology. With the new XENYX microphone preamps including phantom power
as an option, balanced line inputs and a powerful eects section, themixing
consoles in the XENYX Series are optimally equipped for live and studio
applications. Owing to state-of-the-art circuitry your XENYX console produces
a warm analog sound that is unrivalled. With the addition of the latest digital
technology these best-in-class consoles combine the advantages of both analog
and digital technology.

3 XENYX X1204USB/1204USB User Manual

9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized

TO BIND MUSICGROUP BY ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED

Important Safety Instructions

Terminals marked with this symbol carry
electrical current of su cient magnitude

to constitute risk of electric shock.
Use only high-quality professional speaker cables with
¼" TS or twist-locking plugs pre-installed. Allother
installation or modi cation should be performed only
by quali edpersonnel.

This symbol, wherever it appears,

alertsyou to the presence of uninsulated

dangerous voltage inside the
enclosure-voltage that may be su cient to constitute a
risk ofshock.

This symbol, wherever it appears,

alertsyou to important operating and

maintenance instructions in the
accompanying literature. Please read the manual.

Caution

To reduce the risk of electric shock, donot

remove the top cover (or the rear section).
No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to
quali ed personnel.

Caution

To reduce the risk of  re or electric shock,

do not expose this appliance to rain and
moisture. The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping
or splashing liquids and no objects  lled with liquids,
suchas vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.

Caution

These service instructions are for use

by quali ed ser vice personnel only.
Toreduce the risk of electric shock do not perform any
servicing other than that contained in the operation
instructions. Repairs have to be performed by quali ed
servicepersonnel.

or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades
with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug
has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide
blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. Ifthe
provided plug does not  t into your outlet, consult an
electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or
pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles,
and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

11. Use only attachments/accessories speci ed by
themanufacturer.

12. Use only with the
cart, stand, tripod, bracket,
or table speci ed by the
manufacturer, orsold with
the apparatus. When a cart
is used, use caution when
moving the cart/apparatus
combination to avoid

injury from tip-over.

13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or
when unused for long periods of time.

14. Refer all servicing to quali ed service personnel.
Servicing is required when the apparatus has been
damaged in any way, such as power supply cord or plug
is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen
into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed
to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has
beendropped.

15. The apparatus shall be connected to a MAINS socket
outlet with a protective earthing connection.

16. Where the MAINS plug or an appliance coupler is
used as the disconnect device, the disconnect device shall
remain readily operable.

UNDERTAKING OR REPRESENTATION. THIS MANUAL
IS COPYRIGHTED. NO PART OF THIS MANUAL MAY
BE REPRODUCED OR TRANSMITTED IN ANY FORM
OR BY ANY MEANS, ELECTRONIC OR MECHANICAL,
INCLUDING PHOTOCOPYING AND RECORDING OF ANY
KIND, FOR ANY PURPOSE, WITHOUT THE EXPRESS
WRITTEN PERMISSION OF MUSICGROUPIPLTD.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
© 2013 MUSICGroupIPLtd.
Trident Chambers, Wickhams Cay, P.O. Box 146,
Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands

LIMITED WARRANTY

For the applicable warranty terms and conditions
and additional information regarding MUSIC Group’s
Limited Warranty, please see complete details online at
www.music-group.com/warranty.

1. Read these instructions.

2. Keep these instructions.

3. Heed all warnings.

4. Follow all instructions.

5. Do not use this apparatus near water.

6. Clean only with dry cloth.

7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in

accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

8. Do not install near any heat sources such as
radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus
(including ampli ers) that produce heat.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS AND APPEARANCES
ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE AND
ACCURACY IS NOT GUARANTEED. BEHRINGER,
KLARKTEKNIK, MIDAS, BUGERA, AND TURBOSOUND
ARE PART OF THE MUSIC GROUP MUSICGROUP.COM.
ALL TRADEMARKS ARE THE PROPERTY OF THEIR
RESPECTIVE OWNERS. MUSICGROUP ACCEPTS NO
LIABILITY FOR ANY LOSS WHICH MAY BE SUFFERED
BY ANY PERSON WHO RELIES EITHER WHOLLY OR
IN PART UPON ANY DESCRIPTION, PHOTOGRAPH
OR STATEMENT CONTAINED HEREIN. COLORS AND
SPECIFICATIONS MAY VARY FROM ACTUAL PRODUCT.
MUSIC GROUP PRODUCTS ARE SOLD THROUGH
AUTHORIZED FULLFILLERS AND RESELLERS ONLY.
FULLFILLERSAND RESELLERS ARE NOT AGENTS OF
MUSICGROUP AND HAVE ABSOLUTELY NO AUTHORITY

4 XENYX X1204USB/1204USB User Manual

1. Introduction

 Caution!

We should like to draw your attention to the fact that extreme volumes
may damage your hearing and/or your headphones or loudspeakers.
Turn the MAIN MIX faders and phones control in the main section
fully down before you switch on the unit. Always be careful to set the
appropriate volume.

1.1 General mixing console functions

A mixing console fulls three main functions:

• Signal processing: Preamplication, level adjustment, mixing of eects,

frequency equalization.

• Signal distribution: Summing of signals to the aux sends for eects

processing and monitor mix, distribution to one or several recording tracks,
power amp(s), control room and 2-track outputs.

• Mix: Setting the volume level, frequency distribution and positioning of the

individual signals in the stereo eld, level control of the total mix to match
the recording devices/crossover/power amplier(s). All other mixer functions
can be included in this main function.

The interface of BEHRINGER mixing consoles is optimized for these tasks enabling
you to easily keep track of the signal path.

1.3.3 Online registration

Please register your new BEHRINGER equipment right after your purchase
by visiting http://behringer.com and read the terms and conditions of our
warrantycarefully.

Should your BEHRINGER product malfunction, it is our intention to have it
repaired as quickly as possible. To arrange for warranty service, please contact
the BEHRINGER retailer from whom the equipment was purchased. Shouldyour
BEHRINGER dealer not be located in your vicinity, you may directly contact
one of our subsidiaries. Corresponding contact information is included in the
original equipment packaging (Global Contact Information/European Contact
Information). Should your country not be listed, please contact the distributor
nearest you. A list of distributors can be found in the support area of our website
(http://behringer.com).

Registering your purchase and equipment with us helps us process your repair
claims more quickly and eciently.

Thank you for your cooperation!

2. Control Elements and Connectors

This chapter describes the various control elements of your mixing console.
Allcontrols, switches and connectors will be discussed in detail.

2.1 Mono channels

2.1.1 Microphone and line inputs

1.2 The user’s manual

The user’s manual is designed to give you both an overview of the controls,
aswell as detailed information on how to use them. In order to help you
understand the links between the controls, we have arranged them in groups
according to their function. If you need to know more about specic issues,
please visit our website at http://behringer.com, where you’ll nd explanations
of e.g. eects and dynamics applications.

1.3 Before you get started

1.3.1 Shipment

Your mixing console was carefully packed in the factory to guarantee safe
transport. Nevertheless, we recommend that you carefully examine the
packaging and its contents for any signs of physical damage, which may have
occurred during transit.

◊ If the unit is damaged, please do NOT return it to us, but notify your

dealer and the shipping company immediately, otherwise claims for
damage or replacement may not be granted.

1.3.2 Initial operation

Be sure that there is enough space around the unit for cooling purposes and to
avoid over-heating please do not place your mixing console on high-temperature
devices such as radiators or power amps. The console is connected to the
mains via the supplied cable. The console meets the required safety standards.
Blownfuses must only be replaced by fuses of the same type and rating.

Fig. 2.1: Connector s and controls of mic /line inputs

MIC

Each mono input channel oers a balanced microphone input via the XLR
connector and also features switchable +48 V phantom power supply for
condenser microphones. The XENYX preamps provide undistorted and noise-free
gain as is typically known only from costly outboard preamps.

◊ Please mute your playback system before you activate the phantom

power supply to prevent switch-on thumps being directed to your
loudspeakers. Please also note the instructions in chapter 2.4.2
“Voltage supply, phantom power and fuse”.

◊ Please note that all units must be properly grounded. For your own

safety, you should never remove any ground connectors from electrical
devices or power cables, or render them inoperative.

◊ Please ensure that only qualified people install and operate the

mixing console. During installation and operation, the user must have
sufficient electrical contact to earth, otherwise electrostatic discharges
might affect the operation of the unit.

LINE IN

Each mono input also features a balanced line input on a ¼" connector.
Unbalanced devices (mono jacks) can also be connected to these inputs.

◊ Please remember that you can only use either the microphone

or the line input of a channel at any one time. You can never use
both simultaneously!

5 XENYX X1204USB/1204USB User Manual

LOW CUT

The mono channels of the mixing consoles have a high-slope LOW CUT lter for
eliminating unwanted low-frequency signal components (75 Hz, 18 dB/octave).

GAIN

Use the TRIM control to adjust the input gain. This control should always be
turned fully counterclockwise whenever you connec t or disconnect a signal
source to one of the inputs.

COMPRESSOR

Each mono channel features a built-in compressor which lowers the dynamic
range of the signal and increases its perceived loudness. The loud peaks are
squashed down and the quiet sections are boosted.

Turn the COMP knob clockwise to add more compression eect. The adjacent LED
with light when the eect is engaged.

2.1.2 Equalizer

All mono input channels include a 3-band equalizer. All bands provide boost or
cut of up to 15 dB. In the central position, the equalizer is inactive.

The circuitry of the British EQs is based on the technology used in the best-known
top-of-the-line consoles and providing a warm sound without any unwanted
side eects. The result are extremely musical equalizers which, unlike simple
equalizers, cause no side eects such as phase shifting or bandwidth limitation,
even with extreme gain settings of ±15 dB.

Both aux sends are mono, are sourced after the equalizer and oer up to
+15 dB gain.

◊ If you press the MUTE/ALT 3-4 switch, aux send 1 is muted,

provided that it is switched post-fader. However, this does not
affect the aux send 2 of the X1204USB.

AUX 1 (MON)

In the X1204USB, aux send 1 can be switched pre-fader and is thus particularly
suitable for setting up monitor mixes. In the 1204USB, the rst aux send is
labeled MON and is permanently switched pre-fader.

PRE

When the PRE switch is pressed, aux send 1 is sourced pre-fader.

AUX 2 (FX)

The aux send labeled FX is for sending to eects devices and is thus set up to be
post-fader.

In the X1204USB, the FX send is routed directly to the built-in eects processor.

◊ If you wish to use the internal effects processor, the STEREO AUX

RETURN 2 connectors should not be in use.

◊ X1204USB: you can also connect an external effects processor to

aux send 2, however the internal effects module will be muted.

2.1.4 Routing switch, solo and channel fader

Fig. 2.2: The e qualizer of the inpu tchannels

The upper (HI) and the lower band (LO) are shelving lters that increase or
decrease all frequencies above or below their cut-o frequency. The cut-o
frequencies of the upper and lower band are 12 kHz and 80 Hz respectively.
Themid band is congured as a peak lter with a center frequency of 2.5 kHz.

2.1.3 Aux sends

Fig. 2.3: The AUX SEND co ntrols in the chann el strips

Aux sends take signals via a control from one or more channels and sum these
signals to a so-called bus. This bus signal is sent to an aux send connector and
then routed, for example, to an active monitor speaker or an external eects
device. The return from an external eect can then be brought back into the
console via the aux return connectors.

For situations which require eects processing, the aux sends are usually
switched post-fader so that the eects volume in a channel corresponds to
the position of the channel fader. If this were not the case, the eects signal
of the channel would remain audible even when the fader is turned to zero.
Whensetting up a monitor mix, the aux sends are generally switched to
pre-fader; i.e. they operate independently of the position of the channel fader.

Fig. 2.4: Panoram a and routing contr ols

PAN

The PAN control determines the position of the channel signal within the stereo
image. This control features a constant-power characteristic, which means the
signal is always maintained at a constant level, irrespective of position in the
stereo panorama.

MUTE/ALT 3-4

You can use the MUTE/ALT 3-4 switch to divert the channel from the main mix
bus to the Alt 3-4 bus. This mutes the channel from the main mix.

MUTE-LED

The MUTE LED indicates that the relevant channel is diverted to the submix
(Alt3-4 bus).

6 XENYX X1204USB/1204USB User Manual

CLIP-LED

The CLIP LED lights up when the input signal is driven too high. In this case,
turndown the GAIN control and, if necessary, check the setting of the channel EQ.

SOLO

The SOLO switch (X1204USB only) is used to route the channel signal to the
solo bus (Solo In Place) or to the PFL bus (Pre Fader Listen). This enables you to
monitor a channel signal without aecting the main output signal. The signal
you hear is sourced either before (PFL, mono) or after (solo, stereo) both the pan
control and the channel fader (see chapter 2.3.6 “Level meters and monitoring”).

The channel fader determines the level of the channel signal in the main mix
(orsubmix).

2.2 Stereo channels

2.2.1 Channel inputs

Fig. 2.5: Stereo c hannel inputs and L EVEL switch

2.3 Connector panel and main section

Whereas it was useful to trace the signal ow from top to bottom in order to gain
an understanding of the channel strips, we now look at the mixing console from
left to right. The signals are, so to speak, collected from the same point on each of
the channel strips and then routed to the main section all together.

2.3 .1 Aux sends 1 and 2

Fig. 2.6: AUX SEND con trols of the main sec tion

A channel signal is routed to aux send bus 1 if the AUX 1 control is turned up on
the corresponding channel.

AUX SEND 1 (MON)

The AUX SEND control MON acts as master control for aux send 1 and determines
the level of the summed signal. In the X1204USB, the MON control is called
AUXSEND 1.

AUX SEND 2 (FX)

Each stereo channel has two balanced line level inputs on ¼" connectors for left
and right channels. If only the connector marked “L” is used, the channel operates
in mono. Stereo channels are designed to handle typical line level signals.

Both inputs can also be used with unbalanced jacks.

LEVEL

For level matching, the stereo inputs feature a LEVEL switch which selects
between +4 dBu and -10 dBV. At -10 dBV (home-recording level), the input is
more sensitive than at +4 dBu (studio level).

2.2.2 Equalizer stereo channels

The equalizer of the stereo channels is, of course, stereo. The lter characteristics
and crossover frequencies are the same as those of the mono channels. A stereo
equalizer is always preferable to two mono equalizers if frequency correction of a
stereo signal is needed. There is often a discrepancy between the set tings of the
left and the right channels when using separate equalizers.

2.2.3 Aux sends stereo channels

In principle, the aux sends of the stereo channels function in just the same way as
those of the mono channels. As aux send paths are always mono, the signal on a
stereo channel is rst summed to mono before it reaches the aux bus.

2.2.4 Routing switch, solo and channel fader

Similarly, the FX control (AUX SEND 2) determines the level for aux send 2.

SOLO

You can use the SOLO switch (X1204USB only) to separately monitor the aux
sends via the CONTROL ROOM/PHONES outputs and check these with the
levelmeters.

◊ If you want to monitor the signal of just one AUX bus, none of the other

SOLO SWITCHES should be pressed and the MODE switch must be in the
SOLO position (not pressed down).

2.3.2 Aux send connectors 1 and 2

Fig. 2.7: Aux send co nnectors

AUX SEND 1

If you use aux send 1 pre-fader, you would usually connect the AUX SEND 1
connector to monitors via a power amp (or an active monitor system). If you use
aux send 1 post-fader, proceed as described under aux send 2.

BAL

The function of the BAL(ANCE) control corresponds to the PAN control in the
mono channels.

The balance control determines the relative proportion between the left and
right input signals before both signals are routed to the main stereo mix bus.

The MUTE/ALT 3-4 switch, the MUTE-LED, the CLIP-LED, the SOLO switch and the
channel fader func tion in the same way as the mono channels.

AUX SEND 2

The AUX SEND 2 connector outputs the signal you picked up from the individual
channels using the FX control. You can connect this to the input of an eects
device in order to process the FX bus signal. Once an eects mix is created,
theprocessed signal can then be routed from the eects device output back into
the STEREO AUX RETURN connectors.

7 XENYX X1204USB/1204USB User Manual

2.3.3 Stereo aux return connectors

Fig. 2.8: Stere o aux return conne ctors

STEREO AUX RETURN 1

The STEREO AUX RETURN 1 connectors generally serve as the return path for the
eects mix generated using the post-fader aux send. This is where you connect
the output signal of the external eects device. If only the left connector is used,
the AUX RETURN automatically operates in mono.

◊ You can also use these connectors as additional line inputs.

STEREO AUX RETURN 2

The STEREO AUX RETURN 2 connectors serve as the return path for the eects
mix generated using the FX control. If these connectors already function as
additional inputs, you can route the eects signal back into the console via a
dierent channel, with the added benet that the channel EQ can be used to
adjust the frequency response of the eects return signal.

◊ In this instance, the FX control of the channel being used as an effects

◊ return should be turned fully counterclockwise, otherwise feedback
problems could occur!

STEREO AUX RETURN 2 (FX)

The STEREO AUX RETURN 2 control determines the level of signals fed into the
AUX RETURN 2 connectors which are routed to the main mix.

MAIN MIX/ALT 3-4

The MAIN MIX/ALT 3-4 switch routes the signal connected to STEREO AUX RETURN
2 to either main mix (not pressed) or submix (Alt 3-4, pressed).

2.3.5 Tape input / tape output

Fig. 2.10: 2-track conne ctors

CD/TAPE INPUT

The CD/TAPE INPUT RCA connectors are provided for connecting a 2 track
machine (e.g. DAT recorder). They can also be used as stereo line input.
Alternatively, the output signal of a second XENYX or BEHRINGER ULTRALINK
PRO MX882 can also be connected. If you connect a hi- amplier with a source
selection switch to the CD/TAPE INPUT, you can easily switch between additional
sources (e.g. cassette recorder, CD player, etc.).

CD/TAPE OUTPUT

◊ If you wish to use the internal effects processor, no connectors should

be plugged into STEREO AUX RETURN 2.

2.3.4 Stereo aux return

Fig. 2.9: Stere o aux return contr ols

STEREO AUX RETURN 1

STEREO AUX RETURN 1 is a stereo control which determines the level of the
signal in the main mix. If STEREO AUX RETURN 1 is used as eects return, you can
add the eects signal to any “dry” channel signal.

◊ In this instance, the effects device should be set at 100% effect.

STEREO AUX RETURN MON

The STEREO AUX RETURN MON control has a special function: it can be used to
add an eect to a monitor mix. For example:

Monitor mix with eect

In this instance, the eec ts device should be set up as follows: AUX SEND 2 is
connected to the L/Mono input of your eect s device, while its outputs are connected
to STEREO AUX RETURN 1. Connect the amplier of your monitor system to AUX SEND

1. The AUX SEND 1 master control determines the volume of the monitor mix.

You can now use the STEREO AUX RETURN MON control to adjust the level of the
eects signal routed to the monitor mix.

You can easily use the headphones distribution amplier BEHRINGER POWERPLAY
PRO HA4600/HA4700/HA8000 to provide you with four (or eight with the
HA8000) stereo headphone mixes for your studio.

These connectors are wired in parallel with the MAIN OUT and carry the main
mix signal (unbalanced). Connect the CD/TAPE OUTPUT to the inputs of your
recording device. The nal output level can be adjusted via the high-precision
MAIN MIX fader.

◊ If you connect a compressor or a noise gate after the 2-track

output, the faders will probably not be able to create a satisfactory
fade-out effect.

2.3.6 Level meter and monitoring

Fig. 2.11: Control r oom/phones sec tion, level meter

CD/TAPE

The TAPE switch routes the signal from the TAPE IN connectors to the level meter,
the CONTROL ROOM OUT outputs and the PHONES connector this is a simple way
to check recorded signals via monitor speakers or headphones.

ALT 3-4

Similarly, the ALT 3- 4 switch routes the signal from the Alt 3-4 bus to the same
path for monitoring purposes.

MAIN MIX

The MAIN MIX switch sends the main mix signal to the above-mentioned
outputs and to the level meter.

8 XENYX X1204USB/1204USB User Manual

PHONES/CTRL R(oom)

Use this control to set control room output level and head-phones
volumerespectively.

CD/TAPE TO MAIN

When the CD/TAPE TO MAIN switch is depressed, the 2-track input is routed to
the main mix and thus serves as an additional input for tape machines. You can
also connect MIDI instruments or other signal sources here that do not require
any further processing. At the same time, this switch disables the main mix to
tape output link.

POWER

The blue POWER LED indicates that the device is switched on.

+48 V

The red “+48 V” LED lights up when the phantom power supply is switched
on. The phantom power supply is necessary for condenser microphones and is
activated using the switch on the rear of the device.

◊ Please do not connect microphones to the mixer (or the stagebox/

wallbox) while the phantom power supply is switched on.
Connect micro-phones before you switch on the power supply.
In addition, the monitor/PA loudspeakers should be muted before you
activate the phantom power supply. After switching on, wait approx.
one minute to allow for system stabilization.

Solo

When the MODE switch is not depressed, the stereo solo bus is ac tive. Solois
short for “Solo In Place”. This is the customary method for listening to an
individual signal or to a group of signals. As soon as a solo switch is pressed,
allchannels in the control room (and headphones) that have not been selected
are muted thereby retaining stereo panning. The solo bus can carry the output
signals of the channel pan controls, the aux sends and the stereo line inputs.
Thesolo bus is, as a rule, switched post-fader.

◊ The PAN control in the channel strip offers a constant power

characteristic. This means that the signal is always at a constant level,
irrespective of its position in the stereo panorama. If the PAN control
is moved fully left or right from center, the level increases by 4 dB
in that channel. This ensures that, when set in the center, the audio
signal is not louder. For this reason, with the solo function activated
(Solo in Place), audio signals from the channels with PAN controls that
have not been moved fully to the left or right are displayed at a lower
volume than in the PFL function.

As a rule, solo signals are monitored via the control room outputs and
headphones connector and are displayed by the level meters. If a solo switch is
pressed, the signals from the tape input, Alt 3-4 and main mix are blocked from
the control room outputs, the headphone connector and the level meter.

MAIN SOLO (1204FX only)

The MAIN SOLO LED lights up as soon as a channel or aux send solo switch is
pressed. The MODE switch also has to be set at “Solo”.

LEVEL METER

The high-precision level meter accurately displays the appropriate signal level.

LEVEL SETTING:

When recording to a digital device, the recorder’s peak meter should not exceed
0 dB. This is because, unlike analog recordings, slightly excessive levels can create
unpleasant digital distortion.

When recording to an analog device, the VU meters of the recording machine
should reach approx. +3 dB with low-frequency signals (e.g. kick drum). Due to
their inertia VU meters tend to display too low a signal level at frequencies above
1 kHz. This is why, for example, a Hi-Hat should only be driven as far as -10 dB.
Snare drums should be driven to approx. 0 dB.

The peak meters of your XENYX display the level virtually independent
of frequency. A recording level of 0 dB is recommended for all
signaltypes.

MODE (1204FX only)

The MODE switch determines whether the channels’ SOLO switch operates as PFL
(Pre Fader Listen) or as solo (Solo In Place).

PFL

To activate the PFL function, depress the MODE switch. The PFL function should,
as a rule, be used for gain setting purposes. The signal is sourced pre-fader and
assigned to the mono PFL bus. In the “PFL” setting, only the left side of the peak
meter operates. Drive the individual channels to the 0 dB mark of the VU meter.

PFL (1204FX only)

The PFL LED indicates that the peak meter is set to PFL mode.

Fig. 2.12: PHONES connector

PHONES

You can connect headphones to this ¼" TRS connector. The signal on the PHONES
connection is sourced from the control room output.

2.3.7 Alt 3-4 and main mix fader

Fig. 2.13: Alt 3-4 and main mix f ader

Use the high-precision quality faders to control the output level of the Alt 3-4
subgroup and main mix.

9 XENYX X1204USB/1204USB User Manual

2.4 Rear view of 1204USB/X1204USB

2.4 .1 Main mix outputs, Alt 3-4 outputs and control
room outputs

Fig. 2.14: Main mix outpu ts, Alt 3-4 output s and control roo m outputs

MAIN OUTPUTS

The MAIN outputs carry the MAIN MIX signal and are on balanced XLR connectors
with a nominal level of +4 dBu.

ALT 3-4 OUTPUTS

The ALT 3-4 outputs are unbalanced and carry the signals of the channels that
you have assigned to this group using the MUTE switch. This can be used to route
a subgroup to a further mixing console for example, or or it could be used as a
recording output working in tandem with the main output. This means you could
record to four tracks simultaneously. The icing on the cake, so to speak, is that
you could connect Y-cables to these four outputs and then connect your 8-track
recorder in such a way that you have 2 x 4 tracks (e.g. channel 1 feeds track 1 and
track 2, etc.). In the rst recording pass, you record on tracks 1, 3, 5 and 7 and in
the second pass, on tracks 2, 4, 6 and 8.

CONTROL ROOM OUTPUTS

The control room output is normally connected to the monitor system in the
control room and provides the stereo mix or, when required, the solo signal.

USB INPUT/OUTPUT

Fig. 2.15 USB input/outpu t

The XENYX mixer line has built-in USB connectivity, allowing stereo signals to
be sent to and from the mixer and a computer. The audio sent from the mixer to
a computer is identical to the MAIN MIX. Audio being sent to the mixer from a
computer can be routed to the main mix with the 2-TR/USB TO MAIN button.

Connect the USB type B plug into the USB jack on the mixer, and the other end
into a free USB port on your computer. There are no required drivers, but we
recommend that PC users install the included ASIO driver. The driver can also be
downloaded from behringer.com.

2.4.2 Voltage supply, phantom power and fuse

Fig. 2.16: Voltage supply a nd fuse

FUSE HOLDER

The console is connected to the mains via the cable supplied which meets the
required safety standards. Blown fuses must only be replaced by fuses of the
same type and rating.

IEC MAINS RECEPTACLE

The mains connection is via a cable with IEC mains connector. An appropriate
mains cable is supplied with the equipment.

POWER

Use the POWER switch to power up the mixing console.

PHANTOM

The PHANTOM switch activates the phantom power supply for the XLR
connectors of the mono channels which is required to operate condenser
microphones. The red +48 V LED lights up when phantom power is on. As a
rule, dynamic microphones can still be used with phantom power switched
on, provided that they are wired in a balanced conguration. In case of doubt,
contact the microphone manufacturer!

◊ After the phantom power supply has been switched on, do not connect

microphones to the mixer (or the stagebox/wallbox). Connect the
microphones before you switch phantom power on. In addition, the
monitor/PA loudspeakers should be muted before activating the
phantom power supply. After switching on, wait approx. one minute to
allow the system to stabilize.

◊ Caution! You must never use unbalanced XLR connectors (PIN 1 and 3

connected) on the MIC input connectors if you want to use the phantom
power supply.

SERIAL NUMBER

Please note the important information on the serial number given in
chapter1.3.3.

10 XENYX X1204USB/1204USB User Manual

3. Digital Eects Processor

Fig. 3.1: Digital eec ts module (only X1204USB)

24-BIT MULTI-EFFECTS PROCESSOR

Here you can nd a list of all presets stored in the multi-eects processor.
This built-in eects module produces high-grade standard eects such as
reverb, chorus, anger, delay and various combination eects. The integrated
eects module has the advantage of requiring no wiring. This way, the danger
of creating ground loops or uneven signal levels is eliminated at the outset,
completely simplifying the handling.

These eect presets are designed to be added to dry signals. If you move the
FXTO MAIN control, you mix the channel signal (dry) and the eect signal.

This also goes for mixing eects signals with the monitor mix. The main
dierence is that the mix ratio is adjusted using the FX TO MON control. Of course,
a signal has to be fed into the eects processor via the FX control in the channel
strip for both applications.

◊ On the following page, you will find an illustration showing how to

connect your foot switch correctly.

LEVEL

The LED level meter on the eects module should display a suciently high
level. Take care to ensure that the clip LED only lights up at peak levels. If it is
lit constantly, you are overloading the eects processor and this could cause
unpleasant distortion. The FX control (AUX SEND 2) determines the level that
reaches the eects module.

4. Installation

4.1 Rack mounting

The packaging of your mixing console contains two 19" rack mount wings which
can be installed on the side panels of the console.

Before you can attach the rack mount wings to the mixing console, you need to
remove the screws holding the left and right side panels. Use these screws to
fasten the two wings onto the console, being careful to note that each wing ts
a specic side. With the rack mount wings installed, you can mount the mixing
console in a commercially available 19" rack. Be sure to allow for proper air ow
around the unit, and do not place the mixing console close to radiators or power
amps, so as to avoid overheating.

◊ Only use the screws holding the mixing console side panels to fasten

the 19" rack mounts.

4.2 Cable connections

You will need a large number of cables for the various connections to and from
the console. The illustrations below show the wiring of these cables. Be sure to
use only high-grade cables.

¼" TS footswitch connector

strain relief clamp

sleeve

tip

sleeve

pole 1/ground

tip

pole 2

The footswitch connects both poles momentarily

Fig. 4.1: ¼" TS connector for f oot switch

PROGRAM

You can select the eect preset by turning the PROGRAM control. The display
ashes the number of the current preset. To recall the selected preset, pressthe
button; the ashing stops. You can also recall the selected preset with the
footswitch.

11 XENYX X1204USB/1204USB User Manual

4.2 .1 Audio connections

Please use commercial RCA cables to wire the 2-track inputs and outputs.

You can, of course, also connect unbalanced devices to the balanced input/
outputs. Use either mono plugs, or ensure that ring and sleeve are bridged inside
the stereo plug (or pins 1 & 3 in the case of XLR connectors).

◊ Caution! You must never use unbalanced XLR connectors (pin 1 and

3 connected) on the MIC inputs if you intend to use the phantom
power supply.

Balanced use with XLR connectors

12

3

input

1 = ground/shield
2 = hot (+ve)
3 = cold (-ve)

1

2

3

output

For unbalanced use, pin 1 and pin 3
have to be bridged

Fig. 4.2: XLR connections

Balanced ¼" TRS connector

strain relief clamp

sleeve
ring
tip

sleeve

ground/shield

ring

cold (-ve)

tip

hot (+ve)

For connection of balanced and unbalanced plugs,
ring and sleeve have to be bridged at the stereo plug.

Fig. 4.4: ¼" TRS connec tor

¼" TRS headphones connector

strain relief clamp

sleeve

ring

tip

sleeve

ground/shield

Unbalanced ¼" TS connector

Fig. 4.3: ¼" TS connec tor

strain relief clamp

sleeve

tip

sleeve

(ground/shield)

tip

(signal)

ring

right signal

tip

left signal

Fig. 4.5: ¼" TRS connector for headphones

12 XENYX X1204USB/1204USB User Manual

5. Specications

Mono Inputs

Microphone Inputs (XENYX Mic Preamp)

Type XLR, electronically balanced,

discreteinput circuit

Mic E.I.N. (20 Hz - 20 kHz)

@ 0 Ω source resistance -134 dB / 135.7 dB A-weighted

@ 50 Ω source resistance -131 dB / 133.3 dB A-weighted

@ 150 Ω source resistance -129 dB / 130.5 dB A-weighted

Frequency response <10 Hz - 150 kHz (-1 dB),

<10 Hz - 200 kHz (-3 dB)

Gain range +10 to +60 dB

Max. input level +12 dBu @ +10 dB gain

Impedance approx. 2.6 kΩ balanced

Signal-to-noise ratio 110 dB / 112 dB A-weighted

(0 dBu In @ +22 dB gain)

Distortion (THD + N) 0.005% / 0.004% A-weighted

Line Input

Type ¼" TRS connector electronically balanced

EQ Mono Channels

Low 80 Hz / ±15 dB

Mid 2.5 kHz / ±15 dB

High 12 kHz / ±15 dB

EQ Stereo Channels

Low 80 Hz / ±15 dB

Mid 2.5 kHz / ±15 dB

High 12 kHz / ±15 dB

Aux Sends

Type ¼" TS connector, unbalanced

Impedance approx. 120 Ω

Max. output level +22 dBu

Stereo Aux Returns

Type ¼" TRS connector,

electronicallybalanced

Impedance approx. 20 kΩ bal. / 10 kΩ unbal.

Impedance approx. 20 kΩ balanced

approx. 10 kΩ unbalanced

Gain range -10 to +40 dB

Max. input level 30 dBu

Fade-Out Attenuation1 (Crosstalk Attenuation)

Main fader closed 90 dB

Channel muted 89.5 dB

Channel fader closed 89 dB

Frequency Response

Microphone Input to Main Out

<10 Hz - 90 kHz +0 dB / -1 dB

<10 Hz - 160 kHz +0 dB / -3 dB

Stereo Inputs

Type ¼"TRS connector, electronicallybalanced

Impedance approx. 20 kΩ

Max. input level +22 dBu

Max. input level +22 dBu

Main Outputs

Type XLR, electronically balanced

Impedance approx. 240 Ω bal. / 120 Ω unbal.

Max. output level +28 dBu

Control Room Outputs

Type ¼" TS connector, unbal.

Impedance approx. 120 Ω

Max. output level +22 dBu

Headphones Output

Type ¼" TRS connector, unbalanced

Max. output level +19 dBu / 150 Ω (+25 dBm)

DSP 24-bit Texas Instruments

Converter 24-bit Sigma-Delta,

64/128-times oversampling

Sampling rate 40 kHz

TM

13 XENYX X1204USB/1204USB User Manual

USB

Audio Stereo In/Out

Connector TypeB

Converter 16-bit

Sample Rate 48 kHz

Main Mix System Data

2

Noise

Main mix @ -∞, -105 dB / -108 dB A-weighted
Channel fader -∞

Main mix @ 0 dB, -95 dB / -97 dB A-weighted
Channel fader -∞

Main Mix @ 0 dB, -82,5 dB / -85 dB A-weighted
Channel fader @ 0 dB

Power Supply

Mains voltage 100 - 240 V~, 50/60 Hz

Power consumption 40 W

Fuse 100 - 240 V~: T 1.6 A H 250 V

Mains connection Standard IEC receptacle

Physical

X1204USB

Dimensions (H x W x D) approx. 3.8 x 10.6 x 12.9"

approx. 97 x 270 x 328 mm

Weight (net) approx. 8.4 lbs / 3.8 kgs

1204USB

Dimensions (H x W x D) approx. 3.8 x 10.6 x 12.9"

approx. 97 x 270 x 328 mm

Weight (net) approx. 6.2 lbs / 2.8 kgs

Measuring conditions:

1: 1 kHz rel. to 0 dBu; 20 Hz - 20 k Hz; line input; main ou tput; unity gain .

2: 20 Hz - 20kH z; measured at main out put. Channels 1 - 4 unit y gain; EQ flat; all ch annels on main mix; chann els
1/3 as far lef t as possible, channe ls 2/4 as far right as possi ble. Reference = +6 dBu .

BEHRINGER i s constantly str iving to manintain th e highest profes sional standards . As a result of thes e effort s,
modific ations may be made f rom time to time to exi sting product s without prio r notice. Specif ications and
appearance m ay differ fro m those listed or illus trated.

14 XENYX X1204USB/1204USB User Manual

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS
COMMISSION COMPLIANCE
INFORMATION

XENYX X1204USB/1204USB

Responsible Party Name: MUSIC Group Services US Inc.

Address: 18912 North Creek Parkway,

Suite 200 Bothell, WA 98011,
USA

Phone/Fax No.: Phone: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

XENYX X1204USB/1204USB

complies with the FCC rules as mentioned in the followingparagraph:

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a ClassB
digital device, pur suant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed
to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined
by turning the equipment o and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the followingmeasures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit dierent from that to which the

receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician forhelp.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:

(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any inter ference received, including inter ference that may
cause undesired operation.

Important information:

Changes or modications to the equipment not expressly approved by MUSIC Group
can void the user’s authority to use the equipment.

We Hear You