Behringer X18 X Air

18 Channel, 12-Bus Digital Mixer for iPad/Android Tablets with 16 Programmable Midas Preamps, Integrated Wifi Module and Multi Channel USB Audio Interface

18 Channel, 12-Bus Digital Mixer for iPad/Android Tablets with 16 Programmable Midas Preamps, Integrated Wifi Module and Multi Channel USB Audio Interface

The freedom to move around and manipulate all parameters of your mix with the free iOS, Android and PC apps lets you dial in the perfect sound from anywhere in the venue – or the tracking room! Advanced engineering and meticulous design deliver stellar sonic performance at an extremely affordable price – changing the game once again.

MIDAS – The Legend in Sound Quality

Ever since its formation in the 1970s, MIDAS has had a long history of innovation and leadership in the world of audio mixing consoles. Employed by the most famous touring acts and installations worldwide, legendary MIDAS consoles such as the XL4 and Heritage H3000 quickly became industry standards. MIDAS has earned their impeccable reputation due to their no-compromise approach for audio and build quality and in particular for their award-winning Mic Preamps which are considered by industry experts as the industry’s best sounding designs. Building on this legacy, the XL8 and PRO Series of Live Mixing Systems continue this great heritage of award-winning audio quality. BEHRINGER is proud to incorporate MIDAS designed mic preamps for the ultimate in high quality audio reproduction in both live and studio environments. Find out more about MIDAS’ amazing legacy by visiting their extensive website.

Built-In Tri-Mode Wifi Router

Designed for the ultimate in mobility, the X18 comes with an integrated Wifi module for direct control of your mixer’s functions – without the need to setup and configure an external router. The X18 gives you the freedom to focus on your mix, while allowing you to move about the venue to experience what every part of the audience is hearing. Plus you can adjust live monitor wedges from the artist’s perspective – or better yet, let them mix their own IEMs and floor monitors via their own tablets. Access Point is the easiest way to connect up to 4 clients directly and concurrently (i.e., iPad, Android smartphone/tablet or laptop). This mode should have your remote control up and running in less than a minute. Wifi Client allows you to add your mixer to the existing wireless network where the controlling apps and devices are connected. Alternately, wired connections can be made directly to your PC, to a local area network (LAN), or when connecting to a dedicated Wifi router, e.g., for extended range or 5 GHz applications.

Recording Simplified

The incredibly fast and comprehensive 18 x 18 channel, bi-directional USB interface makes the X18 an amazingly powerful digital mixing solution for recording directly to your iPad or PC. Dial in the perfect monitoring mix with effects and zero-latency, while sending up to 16 microphone signals – and the keyboard player’s MIDI notes to your DAW for recording. Whether you’re making rock history in the studio, or you want to capture intimate live performances – it’s never been easier to record stunning tracks with exceptional clarity.

Revolutionary Auto-Mixing

When your application calls for a multiple-microphone setup, such as an onstage panel discussion, press conference or courtroom proceeding, etc., it can become a challenge to maintain so many open mics – and preserve maximum gain and priority for the moderator. A major first for compact audio mixers, our revolutionary X AIR Gain Sharing technology can easily manage fully automated mixes with up to 16 live microphones. Based on the legendary Dan Dugan automix system, the X18’s gain sharing paradigm automatically controls the levels of all selected microphones in real time, without any gating artifacts or noise modulation. This function dramatically reduces the typical feedback, studio noise and comb filtering challenges that can occur when two, or more mics are in close proximity of each another. X AIR Gain Sharing technology provides a consistent system gain structure, even when multiple speakers are talking at the same time.

4 Onboard X32 Effects Engines

Equipped with the very same FX engines as the now legendary X32 Digital Mixing Console, the Onboard virtual FX Rack provides access to four true-stereo (8 mono), multi-effects processors including delay, chorus, dynamics – plus the X18 can run production-quality, true-stereo reverbs concurrently with 31-band EQ on the main and aux buses, all without the need for any additional hardware. You can select any combination of high-end simulations of legendary studio effects, such as the Lexicon 480L and PCM70, as well as the EMT250 and Quantec QRS reverbs. Onboard processing means your computer doesn’t have to do the heavy lifting during a mixing session with DAW plugins as the X18 has a whole studio of FX under its hood. Custom-designed, and physically modeled after some of the most iconic and sough tafter processors, all effects run inside the low-latency environment of the X18 mix engine, ensuring flawless performance, flexible routing and the end of cable faults forever!

High-End FX Racks at Your Finger Tips

The immaculate tube signal path in Teletronix’ LA-2A Leveling Amplifier has left its exceptional clarity, its rich and warm compression on countless albums of the past decades.

The ultra-smooth optical attenuator is closely modeled in our LEISURE COMPRESSOR. It provides breezy, natural and effortlessly musical compression. (Inspired by Teletronix LA-2A*) When Urei released the 1176LN Limiting Amplifier in the late 60’s, it broke new ground. Field Effect Transistors employed were just invented, and the 1176 was one of the first audio processors to benefit from this new technology.

Our digital reincarnation, ULTIMO COMPRESSOR, is based on the early Rev. E model, and authentically captures the smooth character of the original Class-A output stage and its FET’s legendary fast Attack. (Inspired by Urei 1176LN*) The Fairchild 670 tube compressor not only achieves record bids in high-end vintage gear auctions, it also delivers some of the finest colorations in compressor history. Two small trim VR’s preset the control side chain action, a six-step switch determines the timing, and the two large Input and Threshold knobs adjust the levels.

Our FAIR COMPRESSOR model is true to the original signal path, and conveniently provides models for dual, stereo-linked or M/S operation. (Inspired by Fairchild 670*)The COMBINATOR is an amazing 5-band compressor that emulates famous broadcasting and mastering compressors. A highly complex processor, the COMBINATOR utilizes automatic parameter control that produces stunning and “inaudible” results. Makeup-gain for each frequency band will automatically be adjusted by the Spectral Balance Control (SBC) function, to maintain a balanced audio spectrum.

The XTEC EQ1 emulates one of the undisputedly best passive studio equalizers ever manufactured. Virtually indescribable, recording engineers claim the Pultec EQP-1a to be the “secret sauce” of sound enhancement. We analyzed this classic to the core and created an exact physical model that reproduces the multi-faceted sound in painstaking detail. Even the transformers and tube output stage have been faithfully modeled! (Inspired by Pultec EQP-1a*)

Put simply, Pultec literally wrote the book on passive equalization. By digitally “rebuilding” every aspect of this original classic, we captured the very essence in our mid-range focused parametric equalizer XTEC EQ5. Our digital re-incarnation authentically emulates the smooth character of its rather unique components. (Inspired by Pultec MEQ5*)

The new SUB OCTAVER provides two channels of earth-shattering sub-harmonics generation, one or even two octaves below the input signal. While originally designed for bass players, the effect can be adjusted for Hi, Mid and Low frequency tracking to apply to a wide range of applications. This is your secret weapon for beatboxing…

The EDISON EX1 is the reincarnation of one of our own analog classics. This remarkably effective tool allows manipulation of the stereo field. Selectable Mono or Stereo I/O modes allow the processing, or creation, of Mono/Stereo recorded sound sources. (Inspired by BEHRINGER EDISON)

The SOUND MAXER restores natural brilliance and clarity to any audio signal by adjusting the phase and amplitude integrity to reveal more of the natural texture of the sound, which is often hidden when using some effects and equalizers. (Inspired by Sonic Maximizer 482i*)

The DIMENSIONAL CHORUS is the perfect emulation of what has been referred to as “the best analog Chorus unit ever created”. Four simple Mode preset buttons activate amazing effects, best described as “space” and “dimension”. Absolutely faithful to the original, multiple preset buttons can be pressed simultaneously. (Inspired by Roland Dimension D Chorus*)

MODULATION DELAY combines three of the most-used time modulation effects into one easy-to-operate unit. Enjoy true-stereo delay with a lush and spacious chorus, topped off with your choice of three very unique reverb models, Ambience, Club and Hall.

ENHANCERS let you emphasize the Bass, Midrange and Hi output at selectable frequencies, allowing you to generate maximum punch, clarity and detail – without turning up the overall volume. (Inspired by SPL Vitalizer*) EXCITERS increase presence and intelligibility in live sound applications, and are indispensable for adding clarity, air and harmonic overtones in the studio. (Inspired by Aphex Aural Exciter*)

Unlike typical graphic EQs, our STEREO TruEQ delivers the exact frequency response for the fader setting, taking neighboring fader settings into account – for surgical and responsive filtering or general room equalization. (Modeled after BEHRINGER UltraCurve DEQ2496) XR18 can provide up to 16 mono graphic EQs: one in each of the 6 Aux Buses and Main LR, plus 8 additional mono GEQ effects (4 stereo) that may be inserted in channels.

VINTAGE ROOM stands out head and shoulders over other competing reverberation strategies in the way it models sound propagation in the air and room resonances. Invented in the early ‘80s, the role model delivered authentic room character from an algorithmic reverb long before convolution-based processing was available. It is an ideal reverb for mixes or sub-groups, as it adds space to complex signals – highly valued in classical music and broadcasting environments. (Inspired by Quantec QRS*)

PLATE REVERB emulates the characteristics of a plate reverb chamber with control over the damping pad, modulation depth and speed, and crossover. This classic effect will give your tracks the sound heard on countless hit records since the late 1950’s. (Inspired by Lexicon PCM70*)

The 3-TAP DELAY in the X32 records the input signal and then echoes it back after a user-definable period of time and number of repeats. What makes the stereo and triple delay useful and outstanding is the linked tap-timing and musical choice of echo patterns. Use the 3-TAP DELAY to fatten up vocals and instruments, or to add an enhanced spatial element to any performance.

The HALL REVERB effect provides a broad spectrum of reverberation possibilities, from small room to large, or even cavernous proportions. When softly mixed with the original signal, Hall Reverb can be used to create a warm, more natural sound. (Inspired by Lexicon 480L*) more of the finest reverb models: Ambience, Rich Plate, Room and Rich Chamber. These models precisely capture all nuances based on our “True Physical Modeling”, and our algorithms even incorporate the unit’s AD/DA gain stepping converters – nailing the entire analog and digital circuit paths right down to the last detail. (Inspired by Lexicon 480L*)

This handy dynamic FLANGER & DELAY duo blends the “whoosh” of soaring jet planes with classic Delay, and can be adjusted from mild to wild. This combination effect only takes up one FX slot. (Inspired by Lexicon PCM70*)

WAVE DESIGNER is a powerful tool for adjusting signal transients and dynamics such as attack and sustain. Use it to make a snare drum really “crack” in the mix or level out volume inconsistencies of slap bass tracks. (Inspired by SPL Transient Designer*)

The STEREO PRECISION LIMITER is perfect for setting a precise volume limits, ensuring distortion-free and optimal signal integrity. Use the Stereo Precision Limiter to boost quiet signals or reduce the level of ”hot” signals to prevent clipping. (Inspired by Sony Oxford Dynamics*)

The DE-ESSER is a “must-have” tool for reducing the amount of sibilance in vocal mics while adeptly preserving the natural voice timbre of a performance. Use it to enhance the smoothness of the upper mid to high frequencies in vocals as well as drum overheads and strings, etc. (Inspired by SPL 1219*)

Based on the legendary EMT250, the VINTAGE REVERB delivers a shimmering, bright reverb that won’t drown out or overpower your live/ recorded tracks. Use the VINTAGE REVERB to sweeten vocals and snare drums without sacrificing clarity. (Inspired by EMT250 Plate Reverb*)

Taking up only one FX slot, the CHORUS & CHAMBER effect combines the shimmer and doubling characteristics of a studio-grade Chorus with the sweet sound of a traditional Chamber reverb. (Inspired by Lexicon PCM70*)

100-Band RTA for all Channel/ Bus EQ’s

The X18 includes a high-resolution 100-band Real Time Analyzer (RTA), with full Bar and Spectrograph views. This high-resolution RTA displays the audio energy distribution in 100 frequency bands over time – capturing a sonogram window of a full 10 seconds. Switch between the Large RTA view, displaying any available signal in full screen resolution, or the Combined RTA view shown above each of the channel and bus EQ curves – and see the results of your filtering choices. Additionally, the RTA can be displayed on top of the 31-band graphic EQs in the Main LR or Aux buses. Monitoring and controlling frequencies has never been easier!

16 Channels of Personal Monitoring

The easy way to send sound, our ULTRANET connectivity allows you to send 16 digital sources over a lightweight and easy-to-deploy Cat 5 cable to P16-D Digital ULTRANET Distributors, or directly to P16-M Personal Monitor Mixers. This powerful and advanced technology makes it easy for individual performers to create their own “more me” mix – and frees you up to put on your best show. ULTRANET also provides the perfect conduit for sending your mix to the new TURBOSOUND iQ Series loudspeakers, which can tap into the 16-channel digital bus directly.

Launch Pad for Every Platform

While the tablet mixers made by our competitors only work with iOS-compatible tablets, the X18 is an equal-opportunity launch pad for your dreams thanks to its ultra-wide tray that accepts PC/Mac*/Linux* mini-notebooks and tablets, Android* devices – and yes, even iPads of all sizes. By using an internal Wifi router and a suite of ultra user-friendly dedicated apps, the X18 is the one tablet mixer on the market that accommodates the world’s most popular operating systems!

Uncompromised Channel Processing

The X18 allows you to achieve the same incredible level of EQ finesse as the award-winning X32 thanks to its 100-band Real Time Analyzer, which is built into every input channel and bus EQ. Visual feedback built into the control app allows you to see and make fast, surgical adjustments to frequencies in need of a boost or a cut. You’ll wonder how you ever EQ’d without it! Every input channel also features Low-Cut, 4-band fully parametric EQ and the same Gate and Compressor dynamics suite found in the X32 – with one very special addition; you can choose either Expert or Simple functionality. In Expert mode, you can drill down and get your hands on every nuance of your dynamics. Or, if you’re more of the ‘plug and play’ type, Simple mode lets you either select from one of our 4 carefully-optimized presets – or load your own channel templates. Add to this 40-Bit, floating-point DSP and you’ll experience virtually “unlimited” dynamic range with no internal overload and near-zero overall latency. In addition to the Main L/R bus for Front of House, 6 Aux buses are provided for dialing in the perfect monitor mixes, complete with inserts, dynamics, and either a 6-band parametric EQ or 31-band graphic EQ. And if all these outstanding EQ options put a smile on your face, you’ll love it even more when we tell you that 100-band RTAs are available for these, too!

MIDI In/Out for Live Performance Controllers

The physical MIDI I/O port on the X18 mixer can also be used for connecting external MIDI controllers, such as our X-TOUCH or B-CONTROL products, for dynamically controlling channel level, muting and panorama adjustments during your performance. And since the full-featured X18 also supports the Mackie Control protocol, you easily apply comprehensive remote editing and parameter adjustments via any compatible MIDI devices.

Dedicated Apps and Software – All Platforms Covered

Since we realize that “one size doesn’t always fit all”, we went the extra mile and provided apps for all the most popular devices and operating systems. So we engaged dedicated (and highly caffeinated) development teams for our iOS*, Android*, PC/Mac* and Linux* based applications for the X18 mixer. When you download an X18 app for your OS, you can rest assured that you will get the fully optimized experience we intended.

X AIR EDIT (PC/Mac/Linux)

If your application requires a computer for BEHRINGER X AIR mixer remote control, the X AIR EDIT was made just for you. Simply copy and launch the free software with your computer, connect to the mixer via its built-in Ethernet (LAN) connector using a Cat 5 cable (max. 100 m length) – and all X AIR mixer functions are instantly mirrored on your computer screen. Since your PC screen is larger than the one on your telephone, X AIR EDIT allows you to open and scale more app windows, such as for routing or FX editing – letting you decide how much information you need at a glance. All touch screens are supported, or you can use a mouse to adjust your physical mixer’s settings. You can even control multiple mixers remotely from a single computer, or create several strategically placed computer stations to control the same mixer. With X AIR EDIT, your PC, Linux or Mac computer becomes your virtual mixer – both live and in the studio! Download the free X AIR EDIT software from behringer.com.

X AIR for iPad

Front of House is wherever you and your iPad are – thanks to the new X AIR app for iPad. Simply download the free app to your iPad, set the BEHRINGER X AIR mixer to Access Point mode and connect your iPad to the X18 network that will show up. After launching the X AIR app, select the mixer image, and all of your X AIR mixer’s settings can now be adjusted directly from your iPad. You can save your favorite scenes, and load previously stored scenes and presets to/from your iPad or customize your channel layout – all with the support of innovative drag ’n’ drop functionality. Download the free X AIR App for iPad from the Apple App Store.

X AIR for Android

Designed specifically for all Android mobile devices (4.0 or higher), which includes tablets and smartphones, the app can be used in one of two modes: full access mixing mode; or bound to a specific aux bus for creating personal monitor mixes remotely on BEHRINGER X AIR mixers. Using this free and easy to learn app, each performer can use their Android device to dial-in the perfect personal IEM or wedge monitor mix, without having to consult the audio engineer for assistance. With the X AIR App for Android, personal monitor mixing just got a whole lot more personal – both live and in the studio! But it doesn’t stop there – in full access mixing mode, the app provides control over all channel processing including the RTA overlay, effects editing, storing/loading scenes or presets, and much more – whether you’re running a 12″ tablet or a 5″ smartphone. Download the free X AIR for Android App from the androidapps.com.

Stunning Performance – Superb Value

Three companies shared a common vision – to engineer and build the very best sounding, technically advanced audio products for discerning professionals. The feature-packed X18 is the result of the engineering, manufacturing and application expertise of legendary console manufacturer MIDAS, the iconic signal processing genius of KLARK TEKNIK – and BEHRINGER’s unique ability to deliver a superior value proposition. Visit your local BEHRINGER dealer and take a closer look at the exciting, new X18 Digital Mixer, or get yours online – today!

FEATURES

• iPad*/Android* tablet controlled 18-input digital mixer for studio and live applications 
• 16 award-winning Midas-designed, fully programmable mic preamps for audiophile sound quality
• Built-In Tri-Mode Wifi router for direct operation?no need for external routers
• 18 x 18 channel, bidirectional USB interface for direct recording on iPad etc.
• Revolutionary Dugan*-style Auto-Mixing automatically manages microphone gain sharing 
• Award-winning X32 effects rack featuring 4 stereo FX slots including high-end simulations such as Lexicon 480L* and PCM70*, EMT250* and Quantec QRS* etc. 
• 100-band Real Time Analyzer (RTA) for all channel and bus EQ’s
• ULTRANET connectivity for Behringer’s P-16 Personal Monitoring System*
• Ultra-wide tray suitable for almost all tablets, iPads and even mini notebooks 
• 6 aux and main LR buses with inserts, full dynamics processing and 6-band parametric or 31-band graphic EQ 
• 6 TRS aux outputs and 2 XLR main outputs plus stereo RCA output and phones connectors 
• 40-Bit floating-point DSP features “unlimited” dynamic range with no internal overload and near-zero overall latency 
• Free iOS, Android and PC/Mac*/Linux* apps available for remote operation via Ethernet, LAN or WiFi 
• MIDI In/Out allows controlling the mixer via MIDI equipment (incl. Mackie Control* protocol) or for use as a USB MIDI interface (future firmware) 
• Future firmware updates, incl. new FX ?Plug Ins?, downloadable from behringer.com free of charge 
• Internal switch-mode power supply for noise-free audio and low power consumption 
• 3-Year Warranty Program*
• Designed and engineered in Germany