The X AIR XR18/X18 represents a revolutionary approach to digital mixing, offering powerful features and remote control via dedicated software․
1․1 Overview of the Digital Mixer
The Behringer X AIR XR18 is a powerful, rack-mountable digital mixer designed for both live sound and studio applications․ It boasts 18 inputs and 12 outputs, controlled entirely via Ethernet using X AIR Edit software on computers and tablets․
1․2 Key Features and Benefits
Key features include a built-in USB audio interface, digital signal processing (DSP), and flexible routing options․ Benefits encompass remote control from various devices, cost-effectiveness, and professional-grade sound quality․ The mixer’s compact size and powerful capabilities make it ideal for diverse setups․
1․3 Intended Use Cases
The X AIR XR18/X18 is designed for live sound reinforcement, studio recording, and broadcast applications․ It suits bands, venues, houses of worship, and content creators․ Its portability and remote control features make it excellent for mobile setups and streamlined workflows, offering versatility․
Package Contents and Callouts
This section details the physical components included with your X18/XR18 mixer, alongside clear callouts identifying each part for easy recognition․
2․1 X18/XR18 Callouts ― Physical Components
The X18/XR18 features a robust build with clearly labeled inputs and outputs․ Key components include the integrated Wi-Fi module, USB port for audio/MIDI interfacing, and the LCD display for navigation․ Physical controls, such as rotary encoders and dedicated buttons, provide tactile control․ Power input and connectivity options are also prominently featured on the rear panel․
2․2 XR16/XR12 Callouts ― Differences and Similarities
The XR16 and XR12 share core functionality with the XR18, including remote control via X AIR Edit․ Differences lie in the number of channels and physical I/O․ The XR16 offers 16 inputs, while the XR12 has 12․ All models provide USB audio/MIDI interface capabilities and similar digital signal processing options․
Important Safety Instructions
Prioritize safety! Always follow general precautions, proper power supply guidelines, and grounding instructions to prevent electrical shock and ensure reliable operation․
3․1 General Safety Precautions
To ensure safe operation, avoid operating the mixer in damp or wet locations․ Do not expose it to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight․ Keep ventilation openings clear of obstructions․ Regularly inspect the power cord for damage, and never use a damaged cord․ Disconnect the power before cleaning․
3․2 Power Supply and Grounding
The X AIR XR18/X18 requires a stable power source matching the specified voltage on the unit’s rear panel․ Utilize a properly grounded outlet to minimize electrical shock risk․ Avoid daisy-chaining power strips, and ensure the grounding conductor is intact․
Legal Disclaimer and Limited Warranty
This product is subject to a limited warranty, protecting against manufacturing defects․ Warranty terms and conditions are detailed within the included documentation․
4․1 Warranty Terms and Conditions
The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for one year from the purchase date․ This does not include damage from misuse, accidents, or unauthorized modifications․ Proof of purchase is required for all warranty claims․ Shipping costs for returns are the responsibility of the purchaser․
4․2 Liability Limitations
Our liability is limited to the purchase price of the product․ We are not liable for any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from the use or misuse of this mixer․ This includes loss of data, profits, or revenue․ These limitations apply to the fullest extent permitted by law․
Setting Up Your X AIR Mixer
Initial setup involves connecting the mixer to power and a network, then establishing a connection with X AIR Edit software for control․
5․1 Initial Connection and Power-Up
Begin by connecting the provided power adapter to the XR18/X18 and a suitable power outlet․ Ensure the mixer powers on successfully, indicated by illuminated controls․ Connect an Ethernet cable to your network for remote control․
5․2 Connecting to X AIR Edits (Software)
Download and install the X AIR Edit software on your computer․ Launch the application and select your X AIR mixer from the Connection menu․ Confirm the connection by clicking “Connect”․ Successful connection enables full remote control and configuration of the XR18/X18․
Understanding the User Interface
The X AIR Edit software provides a comprehensive visual representation of the mixer’s controls, enabling intuitive navigation and precise parameter adjustments remotely․
6․1 Overview of the X AIR Edit Software
X AIR Edit is a cross-platform software (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android) designed for complete remote control of your XR18/X18 mixer․ It mirrors the mixer’s functionality, offering a visual layout of channels, effects, routing, and settings․ Users can adjust levels, EQ, dynamics, and effects parameters directly from their computer or mobile device, streamlining workflow and providing flexible control during live sound or studio sessions․
6․2 Navigation and Control Elements
The X AIR Edit interface features a channel strip view, master section, and a routing matrix․ Channel strips display gain, EQ, effects sends, and pan controls․ The master section manages main and auxiliary outputs․ The routing matrix enables flexible signal flow configuration․ Touchscreen controls and mouse interaction provide intuitive operation, facilitating quick adjustments and precise parameter control․
Channel Setup and Configuration
Proper channel configuration is crucial for optimal sound․ This involves assigning inputs, setting gain staging, and utilizing equalization to shape each signal effectively․
7․1 Input Channel Configuration
Each input channel requires careful configuration within the X AIR Edit software․ Begin by selecting the appropriate input source – analog, USB, or AES/EBU․ Assign a name for easy identification․ Adjust the input gain to achieve a healthy signal level without clipping, ensuring optimal signal-to-noise ratio․ Phantom power can be enabled for condenser microphones, and polarity can be inverted if needed․
7․2 Gain Staging and Level Control
Proper gain staging is crucial for a clean, dynamic mix․ Adjust the input gain to maximize the signal-to-noise ratio without clipping․ Utilize the channel faders for precise level control, balancing individual instruments․ Monitor the master output level to prevent distortion and ensure sufficient headroom for peaks․ Careful attention to these steps yields professional results․
Mixing and Effects
The X AIR XR18/X18 provides versatile mixing capabilities alongside a suite of built-in effects, enhancing sound quality and creative possibilities for diverse applications․
8․1 Using Insert Effects
Insert effects on the X AIR XR18/X18 are applied to individual channels, offering precise control over sound shaping․ These effects, accessible through X AIR Edit, include compressors, gates, EQs, and more․ Users can select, configure, and assign effects to specific channels for targeted processing, enhancing clarity and impact․ Experimentation is key to achieving desired sonic results․
8․2 EQ and Dynamics Processing
The X AIR XR18/X18 provides comprehensive EQ and dynamics processing tools within X AIR Edit․ Each channel features fully parametric EQ, allowing precise frequency shaping․ Dynamics control includes compressors and gates, essential for managing signal levels and reducing noise․ Mastering these tools unlocks professional-quality sound refinement․
Routing and Outputs
The X AIR XR18/X18 offers flexible routing options, including main and auxiliary outputs, plus monitor sends, all configurable through the X AIR Edit software․
9․1 Main and Auxiliary Outputs
The XR18/X18 provides main XLR outputs for front-of-house connections, alongside auxiliary outputs useful for monitor mixes or sending signals to external effects processors․ These outputs are individually configurable within the X AIR Edit software, allowing precise control over levels and routing․ Users can tailor the outputs to match specific performance or recording needs, ensuring optimal signal distribution and flexibility․
9․2 Monitor Sends
Monitor sends on the XR18/X18 enable creating customized mixes for performers, independent of the main output․ These sends are pre- or post-fader, configurable per channel, offering flexible monitoring solutions․ Utilizing the X AIR Edit software, adjust send levels and panning for each monitor mix, catering to individual artist preferences and stage requirements․
USB Audio/MIDI Interface Functionality
The XR18/X18 functions as a USB 2․0 audio and MIDI interface, enabling multi-track recording and playback with a computer, streamlining workflows․
10․1 Connecting as a USB Audio Interface
To utilize the XR18/X18 as a USB audio interface, connect it to your computer using a USB 2․0 cable․ Select the X AIR mixer within the X AIR Edits connection menu, ensuring proper driver installation․ This configuration allows for multi-track recording and playback, effectively transforming your mixer into a powerful audio interface for your digital audio workstation․
10․2 MIDI Control and Integration
The XR18/X18 supports MIDI control, enabling integration with external MIDI controllers for hands-on operation․ Configure MIDI mappings within the X AIR Edit software to assign controls to mixer parameters․ This allows for tactile control over mixing functions, enhancing workflow and creative possibilities during live performances or studio sessions․
Firmware Updates
Regular firmware updates ensure optimal performance and introduce new features to your X AIR XR18/X18․ Check Behringer’s website for the latest versions and instructions․
11․1 Checking for Updates
To verify if a new firmware version is available, navigate to the Behringer website and locate the support section for the X AIR XR18/X18․ Regularly checking ensures you benefit from bug fixes, performance enhancements, and potentially new functionalities․ The website provides clear instructions and download links for the latest firmware releases․
11․2 Performing a Firmware Update
Before updating, back up your settings! Download the latest firmware from Behringer’s website and follow the provided instructions within the X AIR Edit software․ Ensure a stable USB connection during the process, and avoid interrupting the update․ A successful update requires patience and adherence to the outlined steps․
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Addressing audio dropouts or connection problems often involves checking USB cables, software settings, and ensuring firmware is current for optimal performance․
12․1 Audio Dropouts and Distortion
If experiencing audio dropouts, verify USB cable integrity and try a different port․ Distortion can stem from excessive gain staging; reduce input levels on affected channels․ Ensure the X AIR Edit software isn’t overloaded, and check for conflicting USB devices․ Updating firmware often resolves such issues, providing stability and improved performance․
12․2 Connection Problems
Connection issues often arise from incorrect network settings or a faulty Ethernet cable․ Confirm the mixer and computer are on the same network subnet․ Verify the X AIR Edit software recognizes the mixer; select it manually if needed․ Restarting both devices can resolve temporary glitches, establishing a stable link․
Specifications
The XR18/X18 boasts a USB 2․0 audio/MIDI interface, 18 inputs, and comprehensive digital signal processing capabilities, delivering professional-grade performance․
13․1 Technical Specifications of XR18/X18
The XR18/X18 features 18 inputs and 12 outputs, utilizing Cirrus Logic AD/DA converters for exceptional audio fidelity․ It includes a USB 2․0 interface for audio streaming and control․ The mixer supports up to 64-bit/96 kHz processing, offering a dynamic range of 130 dB․ Its dimensions are 329 x 170 x 86 mm, weighing in at 3․0 kg, making it portable for various applications․
13․2 Power Requirements
The X AIR XR18/X18 operates on a universal power supply, accepting inputs from 100-240V, 50/60Hz․ Power consumption is rated at 45W․ A standard IEC power cable is required for connection․ Ensure proper grounding for safety and optimal performance․ Using an incorrect power supply may damage the unit and void the warranty․
Compliance Information
The X AIR XR18/X18 has been tested to comply with FCC and CE regulations, ensuring electromagnetic compatibility and safety standards are met․
14․1 FCC Compliance
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules․ Operation is subject to two conditions: first, this device must not cause harmful interference, and second, it must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation․ Modifications not approved by Behringer could void the user’s authority․
14․2 CE Compliance
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, per European Community standards․ These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment․ Users may need to take measures to prevent interference․
Resetting to Factory Defaults
Performing a factory reset restores the X AIR mixer to its original settings, erasing all user configurations and returning it to the out-of-box state․
15․1 Performing a Factory Reset
To initiate a factory reset on your X AIR XR18/X18, access the Setup menu within the X AIR Edit software․ Navigate to the ‘Factory Reset’ option and confirm your selection․ This process will completely erase all personalized settings, including scenes, routing, and effects․
15․2 Consequences of a Factory Reset
Performing a factory reset returns the X AIR XR18/X18 to its original, out-of-the-box state․ All custom configurations—such as saved scenes, user presets, and network settings—will be lost; Backing up your settings beforehand is strongly recommended to avoid permanent data loss and streamline restoration․