- The Xenyx 1003B aims to appeal to the masses
- Has Behringer created a top-end mixer at a budget price?
- We take a deep dive into the latest Xenyx model
- Also, check out our post on the best small mixers for live performances!
Behringer has released a new addition to their popular Xenyx line, the 1003B.
The new unit has been created with podcasters and streamers in mind while also retaining an appeal to anyone needing a company mixer for live sound (or any other application you might want to use it for!).
The Xenyx 1003B promises to fit a lot into a small package. Let’s take a look and judge whether it lives up to its promises.
Behringer Xenyx 1003B Review
Features
The 1003B is a 10-channel analog mixer, with 1-2 being mono mic/line/instrument input channels while 3-8 provide mono mic or stereo line inputs.
Channels 9-10 are stereo line input options Channels 1-8 come with a 4-band EQ, gain control (with 15dB of gain cut/boost), monitor send, and panning option.
There’s also an effects send for each channel and a master monitor send, as well as a master headphone send. There are master stereo outputs (L/R) and an RCA output that will appeal to streamers or anyone using camera equipment. Phantom power is also available for each mic input.
The Xenyx 1003B is laid out intuitively and is simple and easy to get going with.
Review
It’s easy for audio companies to fall into the trap of trying to pack too many features into their new releases, especially nowadays when pro audio gear is used by more than just sound engineers and studio producers.
Countless content creators are venturing into podcasting, streaming, and other forms of online creative work that require reliable equipment.
Luckily Behringer has hit the nail on the head and offered up a slick unit that does exactly what it advertises without becoming too complex for anyone dipping their toe into pro audio gear.
The 1003B will set you back around $130, which feels adequately priced, especially if you are a newbie to mixers and want to ensure you’re picking up something that will last you a long time.
Promising ultra-low noise, one of the great features is the ability to use this on the go due to the 9-volt battery power option.
You will get a power supply as standard, but if you’re looking for something portable or a small mixer that won’t require extension cords or the need to set up next to a power outlet, stick a battery in the back, and away you go.
At the time of writing, there was no solid information on how long the battery will last you, so it’s worth packing some spares, particularly if you’re using several channels.
My interest was piqued at the claim of ultra-low noise as, living in a house with mains power that loves to create the most aggressive buzz on most pieces of gear, I was keen to see how this promise lived up when plugged into the wall.
Compared to battery power, there was a noticeable difference, but nothing of too much concern, and given that I know this is an ongoing issue, it wouldn’t be fair to score the Xenyx low just because of my home wiring.
Performance didn’t seem to be hindered by battery power, and the unit’s preamps sounded crisp and warm regardless of how it was run.
It feels nice to use as well, the 6mm faders are sturdy and don’t give off that slightly clumsy and flimsy feel that you can often get with budget end mixers.
It’s also reassuringly weighty and certainly feels like it could take a few knocks being moved between gigs or recording locations (though, please don’t test this theory!). Overall I was really impressed at what you get for your money.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Portable
- Intuitive For New Users
- Useful For Studio Use, Live, Podcasting And Streaming
- Battery Powered
Cons
- Might Not Appeal To Seasoned Pros
- No Information On Battery Life
Final Thoughts
Behringer is synonymous with their budget range of pro audio gear. However, it’s worth remembering that budget doesn’t equate to low quality. In the Xenyx 1003B, the company has created a solid piece of gear that will appeal to newcomers to the audio market and seasoned professionals.
Of course, this mixer isn’t going to compete with more premium units, but this isn’t the aim. What Behringer has done is built a versatile, intuitive mixer that will appeal to the masses.
It sounds great, it’s easy to use, it’s portable, and crucially, it won’t cost a fortune to buy.
I wouldn’t say this mixer is new. Have a look at the UB1002, and the 1002B. These are identical when looking at the ins/outs, layout, battery power, and size. The UB1002 was originally marketed under the Eurorack line, so I’m not sure if it was designed to handle hotter inputs or if it was just marketing, then when the 1002B was released they boasted about Xenyx preamps and a “British EQ”. The only difference I see between the 1002B and 1003B is a styling update and “British EQ” was dropped from their description.
It would be nice to know what the actual differences are. Are they all just UB1002s with fresh paint, or are there actual technical differences/improvements between them? I truly would like to know.
After nearly 20 years of abuse I decided to replace my 1002b with this new version. The build quality is leaps above the old version. It is definitely heavier, yes, but gone are wiggly knobs and cheap feeling faders. Definitely and update!