Behringer Company has been responsible for some of the highest quality audio gear and equipment on the market since 1989. Award-winning worldwide for several of its products, Behringer guarantees quality audio equipment and provides product warranties and service for all its mixers. Two of their most popular mixer models include the Behringer Xenyx 802 and the Behringer Xenyx 502, which we will focus on.

Behringer Xenyx 802

The Behringer Xenyx 802 analog mixer is perhaps one of the most practical, complete and affordable mixers made by the German company Behringer. Equipped with a durable and easy-to-use interface, the Xenyx 802 is capable of producing clear, dynamic sounds that are perfect for multi-voice small group performances. Along with a tough, durable exterior, the 2.2-pound portable mixer is also perfect for small groups on the go.

As Behringer’s only 8-channel small format mixer, the Behringer Xenyx 802 features 8 input channels with +48V on a switchable power supply. Which means you can connect up to 8 different input methods including microphones, CDs or tapes at once with smooth, uninterrupted audio. There are two Xenyx preamps in the 802 to capture even the faintest of sounds from incoming microphones, so everyone in a group is heard clearly. To control frequency response, a 3-band EQ is built in to create smooth tracking at all audio phases.

Additionally, the Xenyx 802 comes with the following features:

  • Post fader FX on each channel
  • Rotary control for the main mix fader allows easy control of the volume of the outputs
  • CD/tape inputs that can be assigned to multiple outputs
  • High maneuverability and low noise level

The Behringer Xenyx 802 not only offers several useful features for small music groups, it also comes with the backing of the Behringer name. Reviewers continue to praise the Xenyx 802 as one of the best mixers for the price. Several online sites offer the analog mixer for prices under $75, making it a bargain for any musician who is truly dedicated to the craft of it.

behringer xenyx 502

For small gigs looking to share vibrant sounds from one or multiple artists, the Behringer Xenyx 502 is often chosen. Designed as a smaller version of the Behringer Xenyx 802, the 502 is also constructed of strong, durable materials. Weighing in at 1.2 pounds for a mother, it’s easy to take to small places across town.

Behringer designed the Xenyx 502 to be the “little sister” of the 802 in that instead of 8 inputs it houses 5. These 5 inputs also feature 2 Xenyx preamps, however instead of a 3-band EQ the 502 uses a 2-band equalizer. For the number of inputs on this mixer, the 2-band EQ is enough to flow through all phases of audio. It is important to note that the Xenyx 502 does not feature a post FX fader on any of the 5 channels.

Additionally, the Behringer Xenyx 502 features the following:

  • Rotary control for main mix fader
  • CD/tape inputs that can be assigned to multiple outputs
  • High maneuverability and low noise level

Ideal for the soloist or duo, the Behringer Xenyx 502 is another of Behringer’s high-quality products that seeks to offer the best sound equipment for the music in you. The Xenyx 502 is just as affordable as the 802, with online prices under $50 at various audio and music retailers.

Choosing between Behringer Xenyx 802 and Behringer Xenyx 502

It’s important to consider your needs before selecting which Behringer analog mixer is the right one to buy. If you’re a solo artist, you most likely don’t need 8 input channels on a mixer, so you’d be very smart to select the Xenyx 502. However, if you’re a group of three or more, you’d be better off selecting the Xenyx mixer. 802 so all members can contribute equally to the sounds of the band.

What perhaps raises the biggest question is choosing between the Xenyx 502 and 802 when you have two members in your party. Both mixers are audibly capable of smoothly accommodating both members, so you must make the decision as to whether the additional features of the 802 are necessary for your group. One recommendation, if you can afford the extra $20 on the Xenyx 802, why not? No matter what decision you make, you’re sure to be satisfied with your Behringer purchase!

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