The Behringer X32 seems as polarizing as political parties at times. Simply scrolling any church audio forum on Facebook brings enthusiasts and detractors of the console to the surface. However, it is hard to argue that the X32 has become a staple in the modern church audio world for several compelling reasons, marking a significant impact on how audio operations are handled in worship spaces. Its popularity can be attributed to affordability, versatility, and a comprehensive feature set that appeals to a wide range of church sizes and audio engineering skill levels.
Back in 2012 when the X32 was introduced, Behringer's menu system and overall layout was considered cutting-edge.
Undoubtedly, the X32 made a splash in the market with its unprecedented price point. It was a game-changer, offering a feature-rich digital console with fully motorized faders at a fraction of the cost. This affordability revolutionized the industry, enabling churches with limited budgets to access a professional-grade audio mixing solution. The X32 also introduced features like onstage mixers and multitrack recording, opening up a new world of possibilities.
But that doesn’t mean this whole new world is everyone's paradise. The X32 has flaws and issues, as can be said for any console or technology. That brings me to the premise of this article: Why Behringer’s X32 (priced from $2,099) may not be the best choice for your church. Those who have read my work in the past or heard me speak may know that while I do my best to remain brand agnostic, I have my preferences, and I am only human. I believe there is a time, a place, and a budget for various types of gear. The consoles we use do not change the hearts of those hearing the gospel message of Jesus Christ; they are but tools, so pick the best tool for you! So, which tool do you need?
You must start with your church's needs, not just today’s needs, and think of what you do at Christmas, Easter, and special events. It's important to weigh these against features, budget, ease of use, and sound quality. While the Behringer X32 has made a notable impact in the church audio landscape for its blending of functionality and affordability, it also motivated other manufacturers to step up their game if they wanted to compete in that area of the market.
While the digital signal processing (DSP) options provided by the X32 may suffice, they do not impress more savvy users.
Earlier, I mentioned how the X32 can be quite the polarizing subject, not just in wider circles but even among my own team here at the church. Witnessing the range of opinions that emerge when discussing this particular console is quite humorous and eye-opening.
Back in 2012 when the X32 was introduced, Behringer's menu system and overall layout was considered cutting-edge. However, as we fast-forward to today, perceptions seem to have shifted. What once appeared sleek and intuitive now often feels cumbersome and confusing, particularly as we delve into the complexities of connecting stage boxes and navigating through Dante routing.
This evolution in viewpoint brings to mind a timeless adage: "You get what you pay for." In the case of the X32, this saying rings particularly true. Over time, many users have encountered durability issues, particularly with faders and knobs that seemingly fail to withstand the rigors of prolonged use - a stark contrast to the longevity observed with other consoles.
Critiques regarding the X32's internal components often arise in discussions. The preamps, for example, have been observed to perform below expectations when compared to similar models. While the digital signal processing (DSP) options provided by the X32 may suffice, they do not impress more savvy users. Additionally, many describe the build quality as "cheap," which highlights the compromises made to achieve a lower price point. On a personal note, the one I originally ordered for my church came with the screen installed upside down.
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So today, there's a variety of alternative options that might better align with your church's specific requirements or aspirations for audio production. Here's an expanded look at some noteworthy alternatives:
Allen & Heath Qu Series
Allen & Heath has a long history of sound quality and reliability, having been in the industry for a long time. Their Qu Series (priced from $1,999) presents a great option for churches seeking a meaningful upgrade. It has improved preamps, a touchscreen interface, and the ability to multitrack record directly to a USB stick. Additionally, its user-friendly interface ensures that both seasoned audio engineers and volunteers can navigate its features effectively, making it a versatile choice for churches with varying levels of expertise in their audio teams.
Yamaha TF Series
Next up, the Yamaha TF Series (priced from $1,979) line strikes a delicate balance between sound quality and user accessibility and its intuitive touch-panel operation. The TF line is designed with the volunteer in mind with a workflow that can be mastered in a short period of time. (It can, however, frustrate more seasoned engineers accustomed to Yamaha’s QL, CL software lines.) But for the volunteer it’s easy to use, and the TF Series still doesn't compromise on capabilities; it's packed with features that can cater to more complex audio needs. This makes it an excellent choice for churches aiming to deliver high-quality audio experiences without requiring extensive technical knowledge from their operators.
Soundcraft Si Impact
I have the least experience with this console line, but I have always loved Soundcraft in general, that “British Sound” they are known for. If you’re coming from an analog console to your first digital console, this is a great one to consider making your first choice. I think they have done a good job of blending the digital control with the tactile response of an analog mixing console and without sacrificing modern functionality. You're going to get great sound quality and a straightforward workflow, making it ideal for volunteers or individuals who may not be highly tech-savvy. The Si Impact (priced from $3,209) appeals to a wide range of churches, particularly those that value simplicity in design but require the flexibility and quality that digital consoles provide.
Midas M32
Lastly, I thought I would throw this in here for fun, from the same parent company as Behringer, the Midas M32 (priced from $3,999) also takes the foundation laid by the X32 and elevates it with enhanced preamps and superior build quality and layout. With its improved components and better construction, the M32 is well-suited for larger churches or those with more demanding audio production needs. Because it's made by the same company, its compatibility with Behringer's digital snake and personal monitoring systems makes it an easy transition for churches looking to upgrade without overhauling their entire audio setup.
In my role as a church technical director, I've encountered most of these consoles firsthand, each bringing unique advantages to the table. When deciding between the X32 and its alternatives, it’s essential to evaluate your church's current and anticipated audio needs, the technical prowess of your audio team, and, importantly, your financial resources. Choosing a console that aligns with these considerations can profoundly enhance your worship experience, ensuring clarity and impact in every note and word shared with your congregation.
In the end, the journey of selecting the right audio console is about finding the best tool for your specific mission – one that supports the delivery of the gospel message in the most powerful and effective way possible.
