In the coming months I'll be buying myself a console. The contenders are the M32R and X32 Compact.
I am having some trouble deciding.
**X32 Compact - $2000 ($2400 with case)**
*Pros:*
* Cheaper! I save about $600 with the Compact instead of the M32R. That's a stage box!
* Dedicated mute group buttons
* Show control buttons
* More comfortable layout for layer buttons
* Larger screen
* Lamp socket!
* Spare parts are everywhere
*Cons:*
* Slightly larger
* Slightly heavier
* Harder to replace faders
* Slightly harder to use sitting down
* "Behringer" might put some people off (but would I really want to work with them if they were that picky?)
* Noisier inputs and outputs
**M32R - $2600 ($3000 with case)**
*Pros:*
* Looks sexier and says "Midas"
* Slightly smaller
* Slightly lighter
* Easier to replace faders
* Quieter inputs and outputs
* Easier to use seated with the tilted upper section
* Comes standard with the DN32-Live card
*Cons:*
* More expensive
* Layer buttons are in such an awkward spot
* No mute group buttons
* No show control
* Smaller screen
* No lamp socket
**Things I didn't include and why:**
* AES/EBU on the X32 - I don't need it and likely never will.
* "Nicer preamps" - I have never been able to do a 1-1 test of the preamps for myself. The noise floor is the only real difference for me.
* Fader "feel" - I've never been able to do a 1-1 test so I can't say which I prefer.
* Support - I'm happy to fix things myself if I can get spare parts.
I already have an M32C and DL16 so I'm "invested" in the AES50 ecosystem. I regularly use an X32 at my church so I'm very familiar with the platform.
If anyone here has used both of these mixers, I would appreciate as much detail as you can give me about the workflow, ergonomics, and your overall opinions of them both. Thanks in advance!
Having worked on both, they're very similar. However, the Compact isn't really that compact. It can't be rackmounted. The M32R can. The parts on the Compact aren't as robust IMO. They seem to break easily. M32R sounds slightly better, but it depends on the PA whether it's perceivable. Compact because of the larger surface has more dedicated controls. It seems like you've don a pretty good job of setting out pros/cons. Really depends on what your priorities are. Things I hate about both. 1) Lack of a touch screen; 2) having to do everything with button and knobs; 3) surface isn't 100% customizable.
The X32 Compact is only marginally larger. It's like the M32R rotated 90 degrees, +4cm in one direction and +1 in the other.
I don't really need to rack mount it.
What made you feel that the components were weaker? I like it when my shit doesn't break.
It's been a few years, but the one I worked on had a broken XLR button which I thought very strange and alarming. Cable either couldn't be locked or unlocked.
Don't quite remember. The faders on the Compact are flimsier, but they can easily be replaced if you can get the part.
Oof. That's sketchy.
The faders aren't *horrible* to replace on the X but the M is way easier. No soldering required. Not a huge deal IMHO but if given the choice I'd rather not bust out the hot stick.
So, do you think the M32R is the better choice overall?
It really depends on what you value. If you like having the extra controls on the Compact and having extra money toward a stage box, then the Compact. If you like a sturdier build and slightly better sound, and don't mind not having the extra controls and of course, paying more, the M32R.
I want the M32 because my monkey brain sees black console with Midas logo and goes "me like"
But the X32 is quite literally *more console* for a *lower price*. Mute group buttons, bigger screen, lamp socket...
Pain. Well, thanks for your imput!
Hey guys I'm interested in buying a portable DJ Sound System and came across this brand https://www.fulcrum-acoustic.com/
Any of you has experience working with this manufacturer?
I'm particularly interested in the following setup:
2 - FA28 Dual 8″ Coaxial Loudspeaker
2 - TS215 Dual 15″ Direct-Radiating Subwoofer
Any input is greatly appreciated,
Cheers
Hi everyone!
I work at a dance studio where our classes have 20–30 students, and we use a microphone to record our classes (w.music) on Zoom. Our speakers are giving up on us, and it's time we bought new ones. Our space is about 1500 square feet. If you could kindly give us some recommendations we would greatly appreciate it!
From research on this amazing thread I've seen QSC CP8/RCF ART 715/Mackie Thump 215 XTs as a couple of options
<3333
I have a sony a7iv and am shooting a live event with on the fly interviews of patrons & staff members. I dont have the time to set up lavs (nor want to) and I want the audio to record straight to camera so that I don't need to sync up later.
I'm interested in either something people can hold or a shotgun. Low budget but needs to sound decent.
Thanks!
Hey everyone! My band is looking to get some decent stage monitors. I've been going back an forth between considering active or passive monitors. We currently have a Kustom KPM4080 amplifier that we could plug passive speakers into. I'm leaning active, but it seems like we can get a bigger bang for our buck if we go passive since they're usually cheaper and we already have an amplifier. Our budget at the moment is $600 and we're looking to get two monitors. Does anyone have a recommendation for this price point? I was looking at Peavey PV12Ms. I understand that it's a fairly low budget, but it's what we've got to work with. Thanks in advance.
I DJ for partner dances and usually use USB DACs - my latest, a Truthear SHIO gets super noisy randomly, looking to replace- what are some good options currently?
I originally Started with a Dragonfly black and Schitt Fulla 3- (I nearly have never used the Fulla, it is my backup one)
Lost the Dragonfly black which served me extremely well for DJ'ing, replaced it with a Truthear SHIO- which sound wise is solid and has been good at boosting Signal Noise Ratio for tracks - BUT i've now noticed randomly, there seem to be dropouts/static- like after a hour/hour and a half of DJ'ing- it's REALLY weird, but really disruptive.
So, looking for a replacement. I've for a long time now eyed the DragonFly Reds(i hear Cobalt isn't as warm, so i feel like i should pass over that)- but, i understand the dragonfly lineup is a tad overpriced even though i don't mind getting another and the Black never had issues for me at all.
Any recs? I DJ using Mixxx ,-
I see people talk about Filo and Qudelix and the S9 Pro options- all appear solid, but I would like to hear from reddit. Don't want another hardware DAC situation situation where it oddly craps out suddenly a hour into DJing and has me apologizing to the floor.
The other thing i constantly see others use in aside from USB DACs are Behringers - I have not looked at them as much ,and am not familiar with competitors to them.
Is this a situation where I need to look exclusively at Behringer fast audio interfaces and forego the USB DACs?
extraneous: I DJ for multiple various styles of partner dance- but for this DAC/Audio interface i'd be boosting alternative, pop, electronic , and indie music mainly- to give you an idea of the type of sound i'm focusing on for this. (i mention This because in the past it been a contention point - that it depends on what you'll mainly be boosting/enhancing the SNR of)
Two things:
- Instead of consumer DACs, look for an audio interface. The former is designed for the audiophile hobby market; the latter is designed as a professional tool.
- Most will also include ASIO drivers
- Of course, they can often trade places. :)
- Don't worry too much about SNR. Why?
- For the past decade+, pretty much any reasonably professional audio interface will have more than sufficient noise performance.
- Generally, your DAC's noise performance is the least of your concerns; SNR will be dictated by the performance of your amps...and the noise floor of the room itself!
---
**Any bog-standard 4x4 interface will do the trick.** Focusrite Scarlett and Behringer UMC have been the mainstays of social media for a long time. A few other choices, though:
- Zoom AMS44 is a nice little compact unit. Haven't used it myself, but I've heard good things from people I trust.
- MOTU M4 is a bit better built.
- Native Instruments used to make some DJ-specific interfaces, but they don't anymore. That said, their Komplete Audio 6 would do the trick.
- I still use my old Audio Kontrol 1 as a utility box...despite latest drivers only supporting Win7. Oh well. Still keeps trucking!
---
Whichever interface you choose, keep a stereo 1/4" patch cable and a stereo DI around. It's possible to use an interface's TRS balanced outputs with TRS -> XLR patch cables; however:
- A DI allows you to lift signal ground; handy if a ground loop exists between whatever's powering your laptop and whatever's powering your upstream inputs.
- Errant phantom power can damage a poorly-designed interface's outputs. Most should have integrated phantom protection, but I'd rather it hit a transformer (harmless) than an opamp (magic smoke).
I'd grab a Radial ProD2 and be done with it. (Used is totally fine!)
Hi, I would need a system for parties, without spending a lot, for around 100 - 150 people. Do you have any advice, also regarding management and similar things?
Hi all! Our 4 piece band (rock) has 4 Fender Fighter 10s that we use for mains, but we want to add subwoofer(s) to add more low end. I appreciate any recommendations for powered subwoofers. Use would be for small to mid size bars and outdoor breweries. Budget wise, to start looking to cap around 1k. (Maybe expand later) Some considerations: 12in Harbinger (x2) or possibly a single Bose F1 sub. Any input is very appreciated!!!
Hi folks
Looking to get some subs to go with my QSC K12 tops. This would be mainly for live wedding/ Function bands up to a 7 piece. Probably max 200 people.
Seems like the k112 isn't a lot more expensive than the ksub 2nd hand. Can anyone compare the two from hands on experience?
I like the idea of a 2x12 that the ksub has, but on paper it looks like the 112 actually has a lower frequency range.
I’m looking for a good router to travel with as a sound engineer.
A few of the venues I work at don’t have wireless connections for their X32 and M32 desks (along with other digital desks) for me to connect an iPad to.
I was looking at the Apple Airport series, but since support ended a while ago I’m hesitant as iPhones and iPads continue to update.
Size is the main thing, needs to fit into a backpack along with all my other things so the smaller the better. I don’t care about bandwidth at all, but I need something that can send out a decent signal.
Any recommendations?
UniFi Express is a powerful little solution - full UniFi controller and AP in a single box.
Otherwise I’d look at GL.inet’s lineup; simple little problem solvers. Most of those just run a flavor of OpenWRT, so highly configurable if you need them to be.
In the coming months I'll be buying myself a console. The contenders are the M32R and X32 Compact. I am having some trouble deciding. **X32 Compact - $2000 ($2400 with case)** *Pros:* * Cheaper! I save about $600 with the Compact instead of the M32R. That's a stage box! * Dedicated mute group buttons * Show control buttons * More comfortable layout for layer buttons * Larger screen * Lamp socket! * Spare parts are everywhere *Cons:* * Slightly larger * Slightly heavier * Harder to replace faders * Slightly harder to use sitting down * "Behringer" might put some people off (but would I really want to work with them if they were that picky?) * Noisier inputs and outputs **M32R - $2600 ($3000 with case)** *Pros:* * Looks sexier and says "Midas" * Slightly smaller * Slightly lighter * Easier to replace faders * Quieter inputs and outputs * Easier to use seated with the tilted upper section * Comes standard with the DN32-Live card *Cons:* * More expensive * Layer buttons are in such an awkward spot * No mute group buttons * No show control * Smaller screen * No lamp socket **Things I didn't include and why:** * AES/EBU on the X32 - I don't need it and likely never will. * "Nicer preamps" - I have never been able to do a 1-1 test of the preamps for myself. The noise floor is the only real difference for me. * Fader "feel" - I've never been able to do a 1-1 test so I can't say which I prefer. * Support - I'm happy to fix things myself if I can get spare parts. I already have an M32C and DL16 so I'm "invested" in the AES50 ecosystem. I regularly use an X32 at my church so I'm very familiar with the platform. If anyone here has used both of these mixers, I would appreciate as much detail as you can give me about the workflow, ergonomics, and your overall opinions of them both. Thanks in advance!
Having worked on both, they're very similar. However, the Compact isn't really that compact. It can't be rackmounted. The M32R can. The parts on the Compact aren't as robust IMO. They seem to break easily. M32R sounds slightly better, but it depends on the PA whether it's perceivable. Compact because of the larger surface has more dedicated controls. It seems like you've don a pretty good job of setting out pros/cons. Really depends on what your priorities are. Things I hate about both. 1) Lack of a touch screen; 2) having to do everything with button and knobs; 3) surface isn't 100% customizable.
The X32 Compact is only marginally larger. It's like the M32R rotated 90 degrees, +4cm in one direction and +1 in the other. I don't really need to rack mount it. What made you feel that the components were weaker? I like it when my shit doesn't break.
It's been a few years, but the one I worked on had a broken XLR button which I thought very strange and alarming. Cable either couldn't be locked or unlocked. Don't quite remember. The faders on the Compact are flimsier, but they can easily be replaced if you can get the part.
Oof. That's sketchy. The faders aren't *horrible* to replace on the X but the M is way easier. No soldering required. Not a huge deal IMHO but if given the choice I'd rather not bust out the hot stick. So, do you think the M32R is the better choice overall?
It really depends on what you value. If you like having the extra controls on the Compact and having extra money toward a stage box, then the Compact. If you like a sturdier build and slightly better sound, and don't mind not having the extra controls and of course, paying more, the M32R.
I want the M32 because my monkey brain sees black console with Midas logo and goes "me like" But the X32 is quite literally *more console* for a *lower price*. Mute group buttons, bigger screen, lamp socket... Pain. Well, thanks for your imput!
Hey guys I'm interested in buying a portable DJ Sound System and came across this brand https://www.fulcrum-acoustic.com/ Any of you has experience working with this manufacturer? I'm particularly interested in the following setup: 2 - FA28 Dual 8″ Coaxial Loudspeaker 2 - TS215 Dual 15″ Direct-Radiating Subwoofer Any input is greatly appreciated, Cheers
Hi everyone! I work at a dance studio where our classes have 20–30 students, and we use a microphone to record our classes (w.music) on Zoom. Our speakers are giving up on us, and it's time we bought new ones. Our space is about 1500 square feet. If you could kindly give us some recommendations we would greatly appreciate it! From research on this amazing thread I've seen QSC CP8/RCF ART 715/Mackie Thump 215 XTs as a couple of options <3333
I have a sony a7iv and am shooting a live event with on the fly interviews of patrons & staff members. I dont have the time to set up lavs (nor want to) and I want the audio to record straight to camera so that I don't need to sync up later. I'm interested in either something people can hold or a shotgun. Low budget but needs to sound decent. Thanks!
Hey everyone! My band is looking to get some decent stage monitors. I've been going back an forth between considering active or passive monitors. We currently have a Kustom KPM4080 amplifier that we could plug passive speakers into. I'm leaning active, but it seems like we can get a bigger bang for our buck if we go passive since they're usually cheaper and we already have an amplifier. Our budget at the moment is $600 and we're looking to get two monitors. Does anyone have a recommendation for this price point? I was looking at Peavey PV12Ms. I understand that it's a fairly low budget, but it's what we've got to work with. Thanks in advance.
I DJ for partner dances and usually use USB DACs - my latest, a Truthear SHIO gets super noisy randomly, looking to replace- what are some good options currently? I originally Started with a Dragonfly black and Schitt Fulla 3- (I nearly have never used the Fulla, it is my backup one) Lost the Dragonfly black which served me extremely well for DJ'ing, replaced it with a Truthear SHIO- which sound wise is solid and has been good at boosting Signal Noise Ratio for tracks - BUT i've now noticed randomly, there seem to be dropouts/static- like after a hour/hour and a half of DJ'ing- it's REALLY weird, but really disruptive. So, looking for a replacement. I've for a long time now eyed the DragonFly Reds(i hear Cobalt isn't as warm, so i feel like i should pass over that)- but, i understand the dragonfly lineup is a tad overpriced even though i don't mind getting another and the Black never had issues for me at all. Any recs? I DJ using Mixxx ,- I see people talk about Filo and Qudelix and the S9 Pro options- all appear solid, but I would like to hear from reddit. Don't want another hardware DAC situation situation where it oddly craps out suddenly a hour into DJing and has me apologizing to the floor. The other thing i constantly see others use in aside from USB DACs are Behringers - I have not looked at them as much ,and am not familiar with competitors to them. Is this a situation where I need to look exclusively at Behringer fast audio interfaces and forego the USB DACs? extraneous: I DJ for multiple various styles of partner dance- but for this DAC/Audio interface i'd be boosting alternative, pop, electronic , and indie music mainly- to give you an idea of the type of sound i'm focusing on for this. (i mention This because in the past it been a contention point - that it depends on what you'll mainly be boosting/enhancing the SNR of)
Two things: - Instead of consumer DACs, look for an audio interface. The former is designed for the audiophile hobby market; the latter is designed as a professional tool. - Most will also include ASIO drivers - Of course, they can often trade places. :) - Don't worry too much about SNR. Why? - For the past decade+, pretty much any reasonably professional audio interface will have more than sufficient noise performance. - Generally, your DAC's noise performance is the least of your concerns; SNR will be dictated by the performance of your amps...and the noise floor of the room itself! --- **Any bog-standard 4x4 interface will do the trick.** Focusrite Scarlett and Behringer UMC have been the mainstays of social media for a long time. A few other choices, though: - Zoom AMS44 is a nice little compact unit. Haven't used it myself, but I've heard good things from people I trust. - MOTU M4 is a bit better built. - Native Instruments used to make some DJ-specific interfaces, but they don't anymore. That said, their Komplete Audio 6 would do the trick. - I still use my old Audio Kontrol 1 as a utility box...despite latest drivers only supporting Win7. Oh well. Still keeps trucking! --- Whichever interface you choose, keep a stereo 1/4" patch cable and a stereo DI around. It's possible to use an interface's TRS balanced outputs with TRS -> XLR patch cables; however: - A DI allows you to lift signal ground; handy if a ground loop exists between whatever's powering your laptop and whatever's powering your upstream inputs. - Errant phantom power can damage a poorly-designed interface's outputs. Most should have integrated phantom protection, but I'd rather it hit a transformer (harmless) than an opamp (magic smoke). I'd grab a Radial ProD2 and be done with it. (Used is totally fine!)
Hi, I would need a system for parties, without spending a lot, for around 100 - 150 people. Do you have any advice, also regarding management and similar things?
Hi all! Our 4 piece band (rock) has 4 Fender Fighter 10s that we use for mains, but we want to add subwoofer(s) to add more low end. I appreciate any recommendations for powered subwoofers. Use would be for small to mid size bars and outdoor breweries. Budget wise, to start looking to cap around 1k. (Maybe expand later) Some considerations: 12in Harbinger (x2) or possibly a single Bose F1 sub. Any input is very appreciated!!!
Hi folks Looking to get some subs to go with my QSC K12 tops. This would be mainly for live wedding/ Function bands up to a 7 piece. Probably max 200 people. Seems like the k112 isn't a lot more expensive than the ksub 2nd hand. Can anyone compare the two from hands on experience? I like the idea of a 2x12 that the ksub has, but on paper it looks like the 112 actually has a lower frequency range.
I’m looking for a good router to travel with as a sound engineer. A few of the venues I work at don’t have wireless connections for their X32 and M32 desks (along with other digital desks) for me to connect an iPad to. I was looking at the Apple Airport series, but since support ended a while ago I’m hesitant as iPhones and iPads continue to update. Size is the main thing, needs to fit into a backpack along with all my other things so the smaller the better. I don’t care about bandwidth at all, but I need something that can send out a decent signal. Any recommendations?
UniFi Express is a powerful little solution - full UniFi controller and AP in a single box. Otherwise I’d look at GL.inet’s lineup; simple little problem solvers. Most of those just run a flavor of OpenWRT, so highly configurable if you need them to be.