Behringer X32 Compact Digital Mixer – A Game-Changer in a Smaller Package

The Behringer X32 series has had a monumental impact on the audio industry, democratizing professional digital mixing with a powerful, feature-rich platform at an accessible price. While the full-size X32 console is a familiar sight in countless venues and studios, the X32 Compact offers the same legendary “X32 engine” in a more portable and streamlined form factor. But how does it hold up in the real world? This review delves into the features, performance, and overall value of the Behringer X32 Compact.

The Core of the Beast: Features and Specifications

The X32 Compact isn’t just a stripped-down version of its larger sibling; it’s a thoughtfully designed console for users who need power without the footprint. Here’s a rundown of its key features:

• Pristine Preamps: The X32 Compact boasts 16 Midas-designed, fully programmable mic preamps. These are the same preamps found in the larger X32, and they are widely praised for their high-quality, clear, and warm sound, rivaling those found on much more expensive consoles.
• Comprehensive Processing: Like the full-size X32, the Compact model provides a wealth of processing on every channel. This includes a 4-band parametric EQ, gate, and compressor/limiter. The mix buses get an even more robust 6-band parametric EQ.
• Virtual FX Rack: A major selling point is the onboard Virtual FX rack, with eight true-stereo FX slots. These include high-quality simulations of classic hardware from brands like Lexicon, EMT, and Quantec. This eliminates the need for expensive external rack units for most applications.
• Ample Connectivity: Despite its size, the X32 Compact offers extensive I/O. It features 16 local XLR mic/line inputs and 8 XLR outputs on the rear panel. Dual AES50 ports, a key feature for the entire X32 line, allow for a 48-channel digital snake setup with ultra-low latency, making it ideal for larger events with a Behringer S16 or other compatible stage boxes.
• Motorized Faders and Scribble Strips: The console features 17 motorized 100mm faders, which are crucial for scene recalls and layered mixing. Each channel also has its own LCD “Scribble Strip” that displays the channel name and color, making for a clear and organized workflow.
• Intuitive Interface: The 7-inch color TFT display is bright, clear, and provides a graphical user interface for quick navigation and parameter adjustments. The dedicated channel strip section, with its direct access controls, makes on-the-fly mixing feel surprisingly familiar, even for those coming from an analog background.
• Remote Control and DAW Integration: One of the most powerful features of the X32 platform is its remote control capabilities. Free apps for iPad, iPhone, and Android, along with PC/Mac/Linux software, allow engineers to mix from anywhere in the venue. The built-in 32×32 channel USB 2.0 audio interface also provides seamless integration with major DAWs, emulating HUI and Mackie Control for studio recording and live virtual soundchecks.

Performance and User Experience

The X32 Compact lives up to its reputation as a reliable workhorse. The motorized faders are fast and smooth, and the overall build quality is solid. Users often praise its reliability, with many reporting years of trouble-free operation.

The user interface, while initially daunting for those new to digital mixing, is praised for being logical and efficient once the learning curve is overcome. There are plenty of resources online, including tutorials and user forums, to help new users get up to speed.

For live sound engineers, the Compact’s size is a major advantage. It’s portable enough for small to medium-sized gigs, and the ability to use a single Cat5 cable to connect to a stage box dramatically reduces setup and teardown time. The remote-control apps are a game-changer, allowing the engineer to walk the venue and make critical adjustments from different listening positions.

In a studio setting, the X32 Compact serves as an excellent audio interface. The Midas preamps provide a clean signal, and the powerful onboard processing means less reliance on computer plugins, freeing up valuable CPU power.

A Compact Solution for a Wide Range of Users

The Behringer X32 Compact strikes an impressive balance between features, size, and price. It’s a versatile console that is a strong contender for:

• Live Sound Engineers: Perfect for clubs, small to mid-sized venues, and mobile worship sound.
• Studio Professionals: A great all-in-one solution for recording, mixing, and as a powerful DAW controller.
• Houses of Worship and Theatres: The ability to save and recall scenes is invaluable for managing complex productions and ensuring consistent sound from one service or show to the next.

While it lacks the dedicated fader banks of the full-size X32, a common complaint from users, the “Sends on Fader” function and bank switching mitigate this. The X32 Compact offers a fantastic compromise, packing professional-grade features and sound quality into a format that is both powerful and portable. It’s a testament to Behringer’s commitment to delivering high-value, high-performance gear that continues to redefine expectations in the world of professional audio.