Cacophony Forums
Unofficial Mackie User Forums => DL1608/DL806/DL32R/ProDX Mixers => Topic started by: Fluddman on November 29, 2015, 01:53:50 AM
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I've had a very good run out of my 1608 but I am contemplating stepping up to a bigger mixer.
Mackie are offering $300 cash back on DL32R at the moment so I am tempted but can't quite go through with it.
The lack of any improvement to the reverb and delay is probably the main drawback.
The Behringer X32 rack is the obvious alternative - much better effects but I don't like its app (though admittedly I haven't spent much time with it). The Mackie app seems far superior and that is critical when you don't have physical faders.
Anybody had good or bad experiences in stepping up from the 1608.
Cheers
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Same here. Had a great run with my 1608. Still have it. Stepped up to 32R early this year. No regrets!
Recallable/digital gains are are a huge advance. Rack mount is much better format. Personally I have no problem with the verbs. However, with all the extra channels and returns, why not just rack mount a nice one in the rack with the 32R (if you are like me you still have 2 or 3 in that huge rack that you don't use anymore). Multi-track recording/playback is very nice too. Again, no regrets going to 32R.
Cheers
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G'day Fluddman,
Since your major concern is the UI I have found little real difference in both other than the fact that you have far more features to deal with in the X32. I certainly wouldn't call it much superior, simpler maybe. Yes there are more things to learn on the X32. I would however concern myself with the fact that there are no wired control connections at this time for the DL32. If your gigs are out in the bush no worries. I have the X32 full console not the rack which of course is a different experience, the DL1608 and a XR18 are tablet based. I rarely use the tab for the X32 it's studio use. From what you stated the rack is probably your best choice and can be scaled from the 16 to 40 channels. There are also more options such as wired in-ears, physical fader controls and speaker controls for their newer speakers. Also a lot more control surface options. More channels of course eliminates the DL1608 or the XR series in your case. You could also wait til MF4.0 arrives and see what it brings to the table.
No worries
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I just started looking around, with expansion in mind. I still love my DL1608 though, and plan to continue to use it. I'm running Classic with an iPad 2. I'm getting and iPad Air 2 this winter, to prepare for the 3.x software upgrade.
As for which mixer, right now it will be the DL32. I'm not impressed with what I'm seeing on the Behringer side of things. The X32 rack has only 16 xlr inputs (requires a stage box expansion for more). I also agree that their iPad app looks clumsy - I need to spend some time playing with it but not liking what I'm seeing. All I've heard about the X-Air stuff is the iPad app is terrible.
Soundcraft might be coming out with a Ui 24 (which might have 20 xlr inputs, and hopefully 8 aux outputs). The iPad app looks good from what I've seen online. This is one to watch for IMO.
Again, I know little about all these mixers and might very well change my opinion. I sure hope Mackie improves the reverb - that's the only thing making me want to look elsewhere.
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I had already invested in A&H gear before I sold my DL but replaced it directly with an A&H Qu-Pac with great success.
It's rock solid and has benefitted from numerous firmware updates since my purchase.
The iPad software has gone from clunky to pretty damn good over it's continued evolution.
Many killer features but one to really think about - easy, user friendly full control via the front panel should you leave your iPad at home (it's happened! :-[) or be in some wifi hell zone.
A very solid, reliable, expandable system - well worth a look:)
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Thank for the replies.
WK - no doubt the X32 is more powerful, more pro and offers a lot more options for expansion. It still only has 16 preamps so I would need the S16.
The DL32R provides the extra preamps and sends I need but it is mostly more of the same compared to the DL1608 (obvious exceptions being recallable gains and phantom power switchable on each channel).
At the moment I can get the DL32R for about the same price as the X32 Rack but an X32 and S16 are a lot more expensive.
I think it will come down to whether I want to trade off the familiarity and ease of use of the Mackie for the power and features packed into the X32.
stevegarris - thanks. It it were just preamps the DL32R would be the easy winner. The more I explore the X32 the more I like it - especially the options for effects. The DL is really lacking in this department.
robbocurry - thanks for the suggestion I'll check it out
Cheers
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I am also toying with the idea of moving to the DL32 from the DL16 but have a few limitations still keeping me from pulling the trigger. The biggest problem I see is that I can not hard wire an iPad to it. So if the router dies for any reason I'm up a creek, I can't put myself in that situation. A direct connect jack would easily solve this issue. Additionally, I would like to see the FX upgraded .
On a good note, I would stay with the Mackie line as I have run literally hundreds of jobs flawlessly with the DL series and I feel the mackie app is far superior to the others for functionality and ease of use. The support and software upgrades have been steady and beneficial.
I run the mix for 2 other bands for 50+ shows a year, both have switched to the Mackie DL after seeing the results I got with mine. Being that I now use their gear and no longer have to carry any gear other than my iPad it would be hypocrical to switch from what I have helped promote them to use. When I have used other gear I was not overly impressed with the app, or the quality of the board. The X-32 had great features but I still believe it is built inferior. I have had multiple mechanical problems with input jacks and faders. The Midas M-32 seemed solider.
Since so much of my mixing has been for others...using their DL ( I'm trying to wean off of playing myself these days) it seems to make little sense to invest in a piece of gear I won't use much. However, if the price stayed reasonable and the options I mentioned came to pass I would most likely upgrade, just to have the new toy.
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Hey Beno, I know I'm repeating myself (again) but if you're reading this you will have read the earlier posts in this thread and you must have noticed that you are loosing sales because of your sh$$ty f***ing reverb, including from me. I don't see much point in using an external reverb unit as you're going to be stuck with one patch all night. I suppose you could recycle that old 10u case you don't need anymore and have a rack for each patch!
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Rdmitch I can see your dilemma regarding your recommendations. As far as "superior", "functionality" or "build quality" I would have to disagree with you on that. The DL1608 is mostly plastic while the X32 and X-air are metal short of trim. I heard more complaints about connector issues here than on Behringer sites. Functionality speaks for itself not even in the same league. UI is nothing to write home about especially "Glow and Grow" fortunately you still have your ears to compensate. Software adjustable preamps are IMHO overrated if you know your equipment. Hopefully you don't mix by adjusting preamps that's what faders are for once a proper gain structure is in place. The upgrades have been once a year for point releases hopefully Mackie can retain that pace.
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While the x32 is a nice board, I am not looking for a piece of furniture. My comparison would be limited to compact or rack mounted units. If it was for fixed installation or studio use, I would be right there with you on the X-32 or M-32 or Presonus. While the Mackie may have more plastic components, I have yet to have input jacks pull out of the chassis or knobs break off under minimal pressure. Both these have happened on Behringer mixers. Frankly, while B. makes a well prices product with loads of features, I personally have had very bad luck with their products (except my dual 15 band eq that has lasted forever) and even worse luck with warranty repairs. Their X-rack series is loaded with great features, but look how long it took to get released after promises made. The original app was horrid and updates have been far between. It just seems like their fulfillment of promises is not as much of a priority to them as I would like to see.
I have dragged, dropped, abused my pod DL in just about every state on the eastern coast and have yet to have a failure. I still always carry my spare Yamaha and always will recommend a back up board.
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Hi Fluddman,
I still have and use a Yamaha 01V96, since it is installed in a venue.
Mostly I keep it in case there is a show that really requires physical faders.
For everything else I use A DL1608(smaller, more portable shows) or
the DL32R(bigger, more complex shows).
Recallable preamps are great for 'variety' shows where a new act is on stage every 10~15 minutes, and you have time for soundcheck.
With all three of these mixers I have a spare mixer available, just like back in analog days.
With the DL1608 I carry a spare Ipad.
With the DL32R I also carry a spare router.
I've done three shows in a local venue with an A&H QU16. Very nice mixer.
You might want to consider the rack version.
The original Presonus was pretty limited. The new rack-mount version looks interesting.
I have yet to have my hands on a Behringer, though I know several folks who are happy with them.
Good feature set, but not my cup of tea...
I like the Mackie app, but would find any of them at least usable.
Hope this helps!
Good health, Weogo
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The lack of any improvement to the reverb and delay is probably the main drawback.
The Behringer X32 rack is the obvious alternative - much better effects but I don't like its app (though admittedly I haven't spent much time with it). The Mackie app seems far superior and that is critical when you don't have physical faders.
Anybody had good or bad experiences in stepping up from the 1608.
Fluddman, full disclosure that this reply is an unabashed prop for the X32 Rack in particular.
An X32 Rack is technically a larger mixer than a DL1608 with the additional 6 aux inputs & outputs as standard across all the X32 line, though not full mic pres these can still be useful for incorporating line ins, DI, or analog sub mixers, and furthermore rerouted to channels 17-32 for the additional processing benefits of those channels. Of course there is the additional cost from rental or purchase from the choice of a suitable expansion unit if 17plus mic pres are required, at a future time when necessary.
I offer from experience, testament and personal conviction to the absolute superior speed that the UI of the X32Mix and MixingStation apps provide, in particular navigating beyond 16 channels to a full 32 mics, 6 aux, and minimum 4 stereo effects. While I have waxed poetic to the design of MF Classic in this and other forums, the MF UI suffers in navigation speed along with other similarly designed manufacturers remote UI apps with the constant lateral channel navigation swiping of a full 32 plus channels. It is the combination of the superior navigation speed, access to facilities, and proven stability & reliability that IMO, the Music Group X/M Mix and the 3rd party MixingStation Donate apps prove superior to any and all remote product design specific apps for digital audio performance mixers, though not meant or to be taken as a slight against the Mackie MF Classic / DL32 apps, still a work of art in product design, of course IMHO.
In regards to the effects comparison, there is no amount of window dressing or doctoring to the DL effects, reverb in particular, that can compete with the
X/M32 series. Thought to ponder; I propose that once upon a time that the design, manufacture and sale of a rack box with the X/M32 resident insert effects/
processors at the current USD street price of an X32 Rack would have been possible. Point being that the quality and choice of the X/M32 FXs are so far superior to the DL line and are worthy of consideration alone.
I would suggest that whatever upgrade path you may pursue, that the DL1608 would/could be your backup option, situation allowing of course.
Cheers
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Thanks everyone for your very very useful input.
I gotta say I love my little DL1608 but its looking less and less likely that I am going to go for its big brother. And James, for sure it would be my backup.
The X32 rack just offers so much more value for money, more detailed control, and so much more potential for expansion. Not to mention the effects which are in a totally different class.
I must say though I love the design of the DL32R with the patch bay out front, and the app is elegant and simple enough that people and drummers can manage their own in ears mixes once it is basically set up for them.
I haven't pulled the pin yet but I am swinging heavily toward the X32 Rack. Which ever way I go I am looking forward to digital trim, individual 48v phantom, more channels and more aux sends. Everything else will be a bonus!
Thanks all.
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Here is a small advantage the DL32R has over the X32 rack. All the functions of the DL32R can be controlled by the iPad app but I don't think this is true for the X32 Rack - I noticed early on that you can't set up a stereo link using the iPad app (I assume you have to use the front panel).
Not a deal breaker but significant if you are used to doing everything on the iPad.
Cheers
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I bought my DL when they first came out and it's been a great board. The band I'm in does a lot of shows in venues that have their own sound systems. We also open for regional acts so we get to play through a lot of different systems. Whenever we run into a Mackie, Presonus or Behringer board they all sound great. But I've noticed that whenever there's a Behringer X32 board or some variant, including the X18, the sound to my ears is much better sounding then what I hear from the Mackie or Presonus boards. Low end is tighter and punchier, high end is smoother with better definition. Our FOH sound man goes between the different system apps seamlessly, and he's noticed the sonic difference with the Behringer boards as well. Even systems with low budget speakers sound great with a Behringer board.
I'm in no hurry to upgrade my DL1608. It works great for us. But when I do I'm going to take a serious look at Behringer.
Fluddman, if you haven't had a chance to hear an X18 in action I would strongly suggest you do before you buy.
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Thanks DigtheDL. Will do!
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
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Here is a small advantage the DL32R has over the X32 rack. All the functions of the DL32R can be controlled by the iPad app but I don't think this is true for the X32 Rack - I noticed early on that you can't set up a stereo link using the iPad app (I assume you have to use the front panel).
Not a deal breaker but significant if you are used to doing everything on the iPad.
Cheers
What you are experiencing is demo mode. X/M32 Mix needs to be networked connected to a device (mixer) for some control aspects. Suggest utilizing X/M Edit for full function off-line show creation & editing.
I disagree that there is an advantage as you point out. I counter that the reverse is true in that the Behringer/Midas platform of X/M mixers offers more than one method and platform of remote control AND front panel control does exist if necessary on the X32Rack, something that the DL32 obviously does, cannot,
and may never offer. Wired and wireless LAN, iPad and Android remote apps, PC, MAC, Linux and Rasberry PI off/on line editors, front panel control (excluding Core models), versus one marketed method of connectivity, wireless LAN, and one means of control, iOS devices.
Perhaps someone can illuminate me as to how one might link channels 1 & 2 of a DL32R or DL1608 for that matter within MasterFader version X.X ? Oh, can`t be done? That`s right, on the wish list since `12: https://mackie.uservoice.com/forums/97035-dl-series/suggestions/3009712-channel-linking-grouping
So really now, where might any reasonable individual side on where the advantage/ disadvantage lay ?
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James,
We might need to agree to disagree on this one.
My point is, that because the DL32R can only be controlled by an ipad - the ipad has to be able to control everything. This is certainly a plus for me.
I do agree that only having one method of control is also a shortcoming of the DL32R.
As for channel linking it can absolutely be done using the current version of Master Fader but from memory it couldn't be done when MF was first released.
Cheers
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Just a clarification to my earlier post. When I typed X18 I ment XR18. Sorry for confusion.
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OK...so here is a dumb question for this topic.
If I have a DL32 I can plug in 32 mics ( or other stuff), easy to do there are 32 XLR inputs
If I have a X32 Rack, I only see 16 inputs on the back panel....how do I get 32 inputs ? On the
big boy X32 full console there are 32 inputs on the rear, but not on the rack version.
Do I need to buy a S-32 stage box of another $1400.00 ? Or, am I missing something in the comparison
of these two products.
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James,
As for channel linking it can absolutely be done using the current version of Master Fader but from memory it couldn't be done when MF was first released.
Cheers
Fluddman, I stand corrected and offer my apologies to you, the forum community, and Mackie Central for my oversight and conjecture in my previous post relating to the linking of channels within MasterFaderx.x. You are most certainly correct as to the capability within the current version, as well as Classic. Is really a rather beautifully simple procedure, much in the fashion of MF. To reiterate and be fair though, the channel linking capability does exist within the iOS X/M32 Mix app when properly connected to a device.
If your need/desire to have total control and manipulation via iOS/iPad then the DL32R gets the edge, no question, as this distinction is what puts the entire DL series in a class by itself. Here though is a crux of an issue, where by Mackie`s iOS only design at the outset may have been thought of as a plus, and some as a preference, some may see as a shortcoming, or others as a design flaw. Certainly would depend on perspective and intent of use.
The X/M Mix apps by my metrics are not 100% fully functional, more like 98%, but certainly more functional than many and most, and an absolutely capable solo mixing UI. The app deficiencies/requests are well documented on the Web, in particular the MG User Forum. Judging by the reputed number of unit sales, I doubt this has been a deal breaker.
Then there is the MixingStation Donate app, that here again by my metrics, offers 110% functionality with the X/M32 series. But of course, as the fine print states, YMMV.
Cheers
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OK...so here is a dumb question for this topic.
If I have a DL32 I can plug in 32 mics ( or other stuff), easy to do there are 32 XLR inputs
If I have a X32 Rack, I only see 16 inputs on the back panel....how do I get 32 inputs ? On the
big boy X32 full console there are 32 inputs on the rear, but not on the rack version.
Do I need to buy a S-32 stage box of another $1400.00 ? Or, am I missing something in the comparison
of these two products.
You are correct. You need to the extra stage box for 32 mic preamps.
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James,
As for channel linking it can absolutely be done using the current version of Master Fader but from memory it couldn't be done when MF was first released.
Cheers
Fluddman, I stand corrected and offer my apologies to you, the forum community, and Mackie Central for my oversight and conjecture in my previous post relating to the linking of channels within MasterFaderx.x. You are most certainly correct as to the capability within the current version, as well as Classic. Is really a rather beautifully simple procedure, much in the fashion of MF. To reiterate and be fair though, the channel linking capability does exist within the iOS X/M32 Mix app when properly connected to a device.
If your need/desire to have total control and manipulation via iOS/iPad then the DL32R gets the edge, no question, as this distinction is what puts the entire DL series in a class by itself. Here though is a crux of an issue, where by Mackie`s iOS only design at the outset may have been thought of as a plus, and some as a preference, some may see as a shortcoming, or others as a design flaw. Certainly would depend on perspective and intent of use.
The X/M Mix apps by my metrics are not 100% fully functional, more like 98%, but certainly more functional than many and most, and an absolutely capable solo mixing UI. The app deficiencies/requests are well documented on the Web, in particular the MG User Forum. Judging by the reputed number of unit sales, I doubt this has been a deal breaker.
Then there is the MixingStation Donate app, that here again by my metrics, offers 110% functionality with the X/M32 series. But of course, as the fine print states, YMMV.
Cheers
No worries James. It sounds like I am trying to justify the DL32R, and it does have its appeal, but the X32 Rack is miles ahead.
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James,
As for channel linking it can absolutely be done using the current version of Master Fader but from memory it couldn't be done when MF was first released.
Cheers
Fluddman, I stand corrected and offer my apologies to you, the forum community, and Mackie Central for my oversight and conjecture in my previous post relating to the linking of channels within MasterFaderx.x. You are most certainly correct as to the capability within the current version, as well as Classic. Is really a rather beautifully simple procedure, much in the fashion of MF. To reiterate and be fair though, the channel linking capability does exist within the iOS X/M32 Mix app when properly connected to a device.
If your need/desire to have total control and manipulation via iOS/iPad then the DL32R gets the edge, no question, as this distinction is what puts the entire DL series in a class by itself. Here though is a crux of an issue, where by Mackie`s iOS only design at the outset may have been thought of as a plus, and some as a preference, some may see as a shortcoming, or others as a design flaw. Certainly would depend on perspective and intent of use.
The X/M Mix apps by my metrics are not 100% fully functional, more like 98%, but certainly more functional than many and most, and an absolutely capable solo mixing UI. The app deficiencies/requests are well documented on the Web, in particular the MG User Forum. Judging by the reputed number of unit sales, I doubt this has been a deal breaker.
Then there is the MixingStation Donate app, that here again by my metrics, offers 110% functionality with the X/M32 series. But of course, as the fine print states, YMMV.
Cheers
No worries James. It sounds like I am trying to justify the DL32R, and it does have its appeal, but the X32 Rack is miles ahead.
.......And the qu-pac way ahead of that ;)
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So then in comparison would it be more accurate to compare the DL16 to the XR-18 ?
When you try to compare is the criteria number of inputs, the price, or the app ?
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Qu Pac has only 16 inputs but with way more money a stage box can be connected and THEN you will have 32 inputs ;)
DL32R to me is very very hard to beat.
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Putting my systems hat on it's not about the money it's about will it do the job you need. Certainly $$ will influence your decision but if it doesn't do what you need move on. They all have their pro's and con's so in the end it's what you need that counts. Apple isn't going to change things in the next 11 months so that leaves Mackie to pull a rabbit out of the hat. Vegas here I come, roll those dice. ;)
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So then in comparison would it be more accurate to compare the DL16 to the XR-18 ?
Absolutely a more accurate comparison straight out of the box by both channel count and m.s.r.p. & street price alone.
However a reminder that it was the OP who identified the brand/models in consideration, be it the differences in channels and pricing. It was by this first post that
a reasonable presumption was made on my part of the posters knowledge of such differences and hence the necessary components and cost to equal the channel count of an X32Rack to that of a DL32R. But. I could have been wrong, as is evident in a previous post. :facepalm:
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Putting my systems hat on it's not about the money it's about will it do the job you need. Certainly $$ will influence your decision but if it doesn't do what you need move on. They all have their pro's and con's so in the end it's what you need that counts.
That is how I prefer to roll in my choices, however as I find more often then not with others consumer choices, $ (budget) dictate direction in decisions.
In the Consumer Triangle of desire, need, and $, the almighty typically trumps the other two factors, unfortunately similar to the Producer Triangle of
desire (features), need (time), and $ (least), where there again the almighty reigns supreme, especially if the concerns of shareholders is ever fore and present,
likely and ultimately resulting in compromise. Ye olde you want it quick, cheap or correct? Pick one.
I am sure more than a few examples and tales of such compromise can be referenced to by members of this forum on any number and type of product and or service.
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I just did it. I am on my way home with ........ Drum roll please ..........a new X32 rack! I can count the number of Behringer products I own on one hand. Actually on two fingers. So I hope this proves to be a long term relationship!
I am sure a DL32r would have served me well. In the end the X32 just ticked more boxes for me. Except for bloody mic pre's - so I am going to have to buy the stage box eventually.
Thanks everyone for your valuable input.
Cheers
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
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Fluddman, you got me. I would have put my chips on the DL32R as your eventual choice. None the less, congrats and would care to hear down the road how you are getting on with your kit, on this or other forums. Holding on to your DL1608 at least as backup, right? Cheers
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Thanks James,
The DL32R would have been the safe option but the X32 had much more to offer!
Yep, the DL1608 will become the backup.
Stay tuned!
Cheers
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Fluddman, at least you were thorough in your asking questions before your purchase, good thinking!
I wish you as much joy with your Behringer purchase as I have had and continue to have with my DL32R :)
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I can see you were ready to pull the trigger. Waiting for MF 4 was not in the cards. Keep in mind that as you look at the expansion boxes (yes lots of choices besides the S-16) depending on you needs can also use Midas D16's. The preamps on it are the ones used in Midas Pro series mixers or D15x boxes. For general live usage it probably won't matter.
No worries mate
Bill
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Fluddman, at least you were thorough in your asking questions before your purchase, good thinking!
I wish you as much joy with your Behringer purchase as I have had and continue to have with my DL32R :)
Cheers Dan,
I came pretty close to buying the DL32R more than once. I am pretty sure I would have been happy with it too (except for the lack of decent effects).
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I can see you were ready to pull the trigger. Waiting for MF 4 was not in the cards. Keep in mind that as you look at the expansion boxes (yes lots of choices besides the S-16) depending on you needs can also use Midas D16's. The preamps on it are the ones used in Midas Pro series mixers or D15x boxes. For general live usage it probably won't matter.
No worries mate
Bill
G'day Bill,
Yeah, I need it for a new years eve gig and will have to buy a stage box before then, so your advice is very timely.
Thanks for all you advice on many occasions now.
Cheers
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So I had my first play tonight. I am ever so slightly disappointed with the Ipad app but totally blown away with what this mixer can do when you use the PC/MAC app. The metering section has an RTA with a spectrograph. Unfortunately not yet on the iPad app but I guess one day.
BTW - I got the channel linking wrong. You can link channels in the iPad app - it just wasn't available in demo mode. Apologies to all.
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Well done on your new purchase. I have been deliberating for ages and trying to justify all sorts of things from iLive racks (which you can use with an iPad or laptop, without the surface) to the DL32R.... ultimately the DL32 just didn't go far enough beyond what the 1608 could do and I was hankering after a control surface for larger events and for when I have people assisting and doing monitor mixes for me. In the end I found a good deal on a X32 Compact with the intention of getting the SD16 and SD8 stage boxes in the future.
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Thanks ijpengelly,
I too had been deliberating for ages. The DL32R is mostly just more of the same compared to the DL1608 but I reckon if it had better effects I would have had one by now and it would have worked well for my situation.
The X32 looks like being a good thing and is capable of so much more than the DL - I am looking forward to giving a run over the weekend.
Cheers
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I upgraded from my 1608 to the X32 Rack. Just too many additional features I wanted that were lacking from the DL32R such as the ability to select on each input where the bus tap is instead of being locked into configuring the entire bus one way or the other.
If you have an Android tablet and use the X32 app (third party) you get the RTA function on the tablet as well as trends for the compressors and gates. Also with the Android app you can custom design your layers mixing and matching the channels, busses, you name and you can re-order them as well with almost limitless layers.
The effects are so much better it's not even funny.
I still like my 1608, I use it for a number of sports broadcasts and other smaller events but for big shows it's always the X32 Rack.
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Yeah the RTA function is nice. I assume it will be available for the iPad in the next update.
I am really liking the X32 but it does make me appreciate how elegant the DL app is to use.
Cheers
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Funny this post is here, my brother in California runs a restaurant/club and as part of their remodel they upgraded the house system. Somehow they ended up with a x32 and a x32 compact. I bought the compact for a fraction of the cost since they wanted to keep the x32. So in about a week I should get it and be able to see if I like it or not.
Thinking I'll just keep it for my home studio and practice spot. I'll keep the 1608 for my road shows since that's what all the bands I mix for are used to.
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Just an update.....I did get the X32 last week and must admit it's quite a product.
The effects really are wonderful and there is a astonishing quantity to choose from and
tweek to your liking.
Bottom line is other than the effects quality and quantity, I still like my Mackie for MY regular use. The Behringer is a undertaking to set up, program, and operate. The Mackie software is faster and easier. While I'm still learning and making tons of mistakes on the x32, I just can't see trying to set up routing changes and the multitude of programming when I'm pressed for time and there are problems going on on stage. I have watched every YouTube video on the x32 and it's enough to make my head spin 😁 Just saving a scene is complicated.
To some degree the beauty of the Mackie series is in its simplicity. It's easy to set up, not a ton of
places to make errors. Inputs are inputs, nothing needs to undergo major surgery in order to operate and while the effects do lack (and Mackie REALLY needs to address this) I like the ease of pulling up a show, loading it and I'm off and running in a matter of minutes. So....while there are some great and well thought out features on the X series mixers, I think for the immediate future the Mackie will remain as my go to mixer.
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I have to say, I agree with your summary... there is an ocean of difference between then in terms of features and flexibility, but MasterFader's ability to have view groups and the fairly fixed routing options (on the DL1608 at least) does make it much easier to set up and run with as well as trouble shooting issues mid-show. Having the console version does help to address some of this, but my only show with it to date was a baptism of fire.
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I'd have to agree that Master Fader is easier to use and partly because the DL itself is less complex than the X32. I think the other aspect is that the DL was designed to be exclusively controlled by an iPad and as a result it just works better..
I am now using both the X32 Rack and the DL1608 - now that I've got shows saved in X32, set up doesn't take me any longer than it did with the DL.
To me there is no doubt that master fader is the better app but the X32 is a far more capable mixer.
I still enjoy using the DL and for straightforward gigs it is the simpler option.
Cheers
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
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Lots of good advice on here. I'm in the process of migrating to X32 but will still use the DL1608 for my smaller gigs and as a backup. I bought an X32 Compact 18 months ago and used it for a couple of bigger gigs, the rest of the time it resides in my studio. Back in May I had another big gig where a stagebox would have been useful so I bought an X32 Rack, the gig got cancelled so the Rack has remained unused 'till now but I'm determined to get into it soon as the extra features will be beneficial.
Impressions so far :-
I love MF Classic (and have just installed MF4 to try), the X32-Mix app is not as nice to use... But, it is perfectly functional.
The fx on the X32 are very nice, I use the DL fx happily enough live but they are not as good as the X32.
It's great having real faders when I take the Compact out (but I'm a bit 'old school')
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I'm thinking an SD16 might be in the mix very soon for stagebox duties. How have you gotten on with the Rack as a stagebox?
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I'm looking for a s-16 stage box too.
The plan is to keep the x32 stageside, run the stagebox to the other side of the stage
and run remote with the iPad app.
This would only be in rare cases I need more than 16 inputs and have a lot of set up time to test everything.
Of course it goes without saying that this would be far enough in the future that I have had enough time
to pre program and actually become comfortable with the x32 board. The Mackie is so so darn easy that it's a no brainier to use this as a regular first choice selection at most my gigs since usually I can get by with
16 or fewer inputs.
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I've only just got the 'Rack-as-stagebox' stage today but it seems to be working fine. It'll be a while before I use both on a gig (probably Febuary/March) as the gigs I have prior are all 'DL1608 gigs' (I'll use the X32 Rack for the next couple if I feel it's ready, with the trusty DL1608 sat next to it just in case). I'll have a play in the studio over the hols and report back.
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I used a digital stage box (SD8) with my Rack for the first time last weekend. It was very easy to set up and use.
I sat it next to the drummer and was able to run all the instruments and drums into as well as two fold-back sends and the drummers in-ears. Nice feature that I am sure will be on most mixers in the years to come (well its already on a lot).
My DL1608 still gets some use but mainly as backup now.
Cheers