In this video we compare the Behringer Xenyx Q1202 USB Audio Console to the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Audio Interface
USB Input / Output
When comparing the USB Interface of each device, we can see the following specs.
- Behringer Xenyx USB Output: 16 Bit / 48 kHz
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 USB Output: 24 Bit / 192 KhZ
The Behringer’s USB output is okay, but the Focusrite Scarlett clearly has a big lead in the USB Interface portion of the comparison.
Input Gain
Next, let’s compare the amount of input gain that each device can generate for an XLR microphone.
- Behringer Xenyx Input Gain: 60 dB
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Input Gain: 56 dB
Here, the Behringer has 4 extra dB of gain, which would be more useful for a variety of gain hungry microphones (Shure SM7B & Rode PodMic)
Preamp Noise
When you compare the associated noise, we see the following metrics.
- Behringer Xenyx Noise: -131 dB
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Noise: -128 dB
Again, the preamps on the Focusrite fall short compared to the Behringer. The Scarlett 2i2 is a little bit noisier compared to Behringer.
Instrument Level Inputs
The Behringer cannot handle an instrument (Electric Guitar, Bass Guitar) when it is plugged in directly to the mixer. Behringer recommends connecting your instrument to a DI Box before connecting it to the audio mixer in order to lower the impedance to a level that their audio mixer can handle it.
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 has an instrument button that will lower the impedance for you without needing an external DI box.
Layout & Features
Specs aside, these devices generally have two different purposes.
The Behringer Xenyx is better suited for:
- Live Streaming
- Live Events
- Hybrid Events
The Focusrite Scarlett is better suited for:
- Multi-Track Recording
Equipment Featured In This Video (Pricing & Specs)
- Behringer Xenyx Q1202 USB Audio Console: https://currentprice.io/qx1202usb
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Audio Interface: https://currentprice.io/scarlett_2i2
