Behrenger Xenyx Q802 USB Audio Mixer

Description

The Behringer XENYX Q802USB is a compact 8-input analog mixer with a built-in 2-in/2-out USB audio interface. It’s one of Behringer’s most popular small mixers because it combines microphone preamps, analog mixing, basic dynamics processing, and computer recording in an affordable package.

Key Features

• 8 inputs
  • 2 mono microphone/line channels with XLR inputs
  • 2 stereo line channels
• 2 XENYX microphone preamps
• +48V phantom power for condenser microphones
• One-knob compressor on both mono channels
• 3-band “British” EQ on the mono channels
• Built-in USB audio interface (2-channel in/2-channel out)
• Main outputs, control room outputs, headphone output, tape I/O, and an FX send/return loop.

Sound Quality

For a mixer in its price range, the Q802USB sounds surprisingly good.

The XENYX preamps provide:

• Low noise
• Plenty of gain for most condenser and many dynamic microphones
• Clean, transparent sound

The one-knob compressor is especially useful for spoken-word applications because it helps even out loud and quiet passages without requiring much technical knowledge.

USB Recording

The USB connection allows the mixer to function as an audio interface, but there is one important limitation:

The computer receives only the stereo main mix.

That means:

• ✔ You can record a finished stereo mix.
• ✔ Great for podcasts, livestreams, and simple music recording.
• ✘ You cannot record each microphone onto separate tracks over USB.

Connections

Outputs include:

• Main Out (¼-inch)
• Control Room Out
• FX Send
• Stereo Aux Return
• RCA Tape In/Out
• Headphone output

This makes it easy to connect powered speakers, external effects, or a recording device.

Typical Uses

The Q802USB works well for:

• Podcasts
• YouTube production
• Small livestreams
• Voice-over work
• Solo musicians
• Acoustic performances
• Small rehearsal spaces

Advantages

• Excellent value
• Clean microphone preamps
• Built-in USB interface
• Simple compressors
• Phantom power
• Compact and rugged
• Easy to learn