Behringer XENYX 302USB Premium 5-Input Mixer with XENYX Mic Preamp and USB/Audio Interface Review

The Behringer XENYX 302USB is a compact and versatile 5-input analog mixer with USB connectivity, designed for podcasting, music recording, live streaming, and other audio production applications. In this comprehensive review article, we will examine the key features, specs, pros and cons, and overall value offered by this entry-level mixing console from Behringer.

Overview and Features

The XENYX 302USB is an analog mixer with 5 mono microphone/line inputs, one stereo line input, and a USB interface to connect to a computer. Some of the main features include:

• 5 XENYX mic preamps with +130 dB dynamic range for clear and natural sound
• British-style 3-band EQ for warm and musical sound
• Low-noise, high-headroom 48V phantom power for condenser mics
• Built-in stereo USB/Audio interface to connect to a computer
• RCA main mix outputs to connect to speakers or an external recorder
• 1x 1/4″ headphone output with dedicated level control
• +48V Phantom Power switch for condenser microphones
• Clip LEDs for signal overload indication
• Streamlined control layout for fast and intuitive operation

With its comprehensive input section, musical British EQs, and USB connectivity, the 302USB provides an all-in-one mixing and recording solution for podcasters, streamers, and beginner music producers. The compact footprint makes it easy to integrate into any home or project studio setup.

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Build Quality and Design

Despite its budget-friendly price point, the 302USB features the rugged build quality that Behringer is known for. The casing is made of sturdy black metal, with reinforced side pieces to protect the knobs and connectors. The knobs have a nice grippy texture and the input gain knobs feel smooth and precise. Overall the build feels solid and designed to handle being transported and used frequently.

The control surface layout is logically organized, with the 5 input channels on the left side for easy gain staging. The right side houses the master section with headphone/main mix levels, EQs, phantom power, and USB control. The angled shape allows for better desktop ergonomics. There are also 4 rubber pads on the bottom to prevent slipping.

While it may lack the luxurious feel or metal chassis of a high-end mixer, the 302USB’s practical design provides reliable performance for home studio use.

Ease of Use

Despite having an analog signal path, the 302USB is designed to be quick and intuitive to operate thanks to its clear interface labeling and logical control placement.

Setting levels is easy with the smooth 60mm logarithmic-taper input gain knobs. Each mono channel features multi-color signal and peak LEDs for level metering at a glance. The 3-band EQ provides up to 15dB of boost/cut, allowing for quick tonal shaping. The phantom power switch enables global +48V for all channels to power condenser mics.

The main mix knob blends the USB output and analog RCA outs, while the phones knob sets the 1/4″ headphone level. No complex menu diving or software required – just plug and play. This simplicity makes the XENYX 302USB well-suited for podcasters and streamers who need to be up and running quickly.

Sound Quality

Thanks to its XENYX preamps and British EQ, the 302USB delivers impressively clean, transparent, and musical sound for the price. The preamps provide wide dynamic range to capture intricate details, while the EQ shapes tone without drastically altering source audio.

Vocals sound full-bodied, detailed and noise-free. Acoustic guitars retain their natural resonance and string articulation. The airy top end adds crispness without harshness. Compared to other budget mixers, the 302USB generally provides superior warmth and clarity.

Some users may desire more EQ bands for surgical tweaking, but the 3-band EQ is quite musical for general tone shaping. Low-end could be tighter for certain instruments like kick drum, but is sufficient for spoken word recording. Overall the 302USB captures audio faithfully while adding pleasing analog character.

USB Recording and Connectivity

The built-in USB interface allows direct recording to a computer at either 44.1 or 48kHz sampling rate up to 16-bit depth. It shows up as a stereo input device in your recording software for easy routing. No additional drivers or complex configuration required.

Latency is sufficiently low for comfortable tracking and monitoring while recording. Although not designed for live performance, the lag is small enough for basic streaming or podcast broadcasts as well. Just set the mixer’s main mix knob to the USB output.

The stereo RCA outputs can alternatively feed a set of powered monitors, external recorder, or PA system. With both digital and analog connectivity, the XENYX 302USB provides flexibility for various studio workflows and delivery methods.

Value for the Price

Available for around $80, the Behringer XENYX 302USB offers tremendous value compared to other mixers in this price tier. You would be hard pressed to find another mixer under $100 offering USB connectivity, phantom power, XENYX preamps, and British EQ.

The combination of clean audio, versatile I/O, and premium features makes the 302USB a remarkable bargain for home studio owners on a tight budget. While professionals may desire more inputs and routing, the 302USB has an impressive feature set for the price.

Pros

• Excellent price-to-performance value
• XENYX preamps provide wide dynamic range
• Musical British EQ for warm, natural tone
• Built-in USB interface for recording and streaming
• Rugged and portable all-metal construction
• Easy to operate with intuitive control layout
• Global +48V phantom power for condenser mics
• Flexible connectivity options (USB/RCA/Headphones)

Cons

• Only 5 mono input channels
• No digital effects or LCD display
• USB limited to 16-bit/44.1-48kHz
• EQ limited to 3-bands (no swept mids)
• Low-end response could be tighter
• No dedicated pad or HPF buttons per channel

Who is it Best Suited For?

With its simple analog design, valued-focused price, and plug-and-play USB connectivity, the Behringer XENYX 302USB is ideally suited for:

• Podcasters and broadcasters
• Live streamers and gamers
• Voiceover artists and singers
• Beginner music producers/songwriters
• Small band demo recording
• Audio/video post-production
• Field recording and location audio

For professional applications with more complex routing and effects needs, a higher-end digital mixer may be required. But for basic multi-track recording and clean stereo mixing, the 302USB is a versatile choice.

FAQs

Can you connect the 302USB to an iPhone/iPad?

Yes, with the appropriate adapters you can connect the 1/4″ main outputs or headphone jack to an iPhone or iPad. You will need TRS to TRRS adapters or a small interface like the iRig Pro.

What DAW software works best with the USB interface?

The 302USB is compatible with any major DAW like Ableton, Logic, Pro Tools, Cubase, Reaper, Audacity etc. The driver-free USB setup works smoothly with Windows, Mac, iOS and Android devices.

Can you insert external effects processors in the signal chain?

Yes, the 1/4″ TRS insert connections allow integrating external processors like compressors on each input channel. Simply connect the send to the processor input, and its output back to the return insert jack.

Does the 302USB provide phantom power for condenser microphones?

Yes, engaging the global +48V button on the front panel will provide phantom power for all XLR mic inputs to use with condenser mics requiring power. Dynamic mics can still be used safely with phantom enabled.

How many headphones can you plug in simultaneously?

The 302USB has one dedicated 1/4″ stereo headphone output, so it only allows connecting a single pair of headphones directly. You can split the output to connect two pairs using a headphone amplifier or splitter.

Conclusion

With its flexible I/O options, stellar sound quality, and intuitive design, the Behringer XENYX 302USB is an ideal compact mixer for podcasting, streaming, and basic multi-track recording applications. It provides ample input expandability along with premium preamps and EQ – all for an amazing price under $100.

Despite a few minor shortcomings like limited EQ and I/O compared to larger consoles, the 302USB punches above its weight class. For home studio owners looking for great bang-for-buck without compromising on quality, the XENYX 302USB belongs on your shortlist. It provides a simple yet powerful platform that can grow with you over time.

So if you are a podcaster, live streamer, or budding music producer on a budget, don’t hesitate to check out the Behringer XENYX 302USB mixer!

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