Behringer X32 Rack to Replace dbx Driverack 260 +Behringer XR18?

[Joman116]

Hey everyone,

I’m a sound tech and part-time DJ. Last year, I picked up a used dbx DriveRack 260 mainly to handle hard limiting for my passive sub amp, and it’s been useful for its feedback suppression as well.

I also recently got a Behringer XR18 with a GL.iNet Slate router—my first digital mixer. I’ve been using it for live bands and ceremonies, and overall it’s been pretty impressive.

That said, I’m starting to notice some overlap in what these two units do. I’m thinking about simplifying my setup by replacing both with a Behringer X32 Rack. I understand it doesn’t have built-in automatic feedback suppression (so I’d have to manage that manually through EQ), but it seems to offer a lot more flexibility and capability compared to the XR18. From what I gather, it covers everything the XR18 does and then some.

I’ve also noticed more X32 units popping up for sale as people move to the Wing Rack, which makes it feel like a good opportunity to make the switch.

Curious to hear your thoughts or experiences—does this seem like a smart move?

Edit : I don't think the X32 has crossover functionality which is critical for bfm Subs

[Bruce Weldy]

Keep the driverack. You need the dedicated crossover and limiting. Even if the mixer could do it all, you would still stand the chance of changing to a scene that doesn't have the proper processing and blow it all up. Not worth the chance.

But, I don't think the mixer can do the brickwall limiting you need to protect the subs.

[Joman116]

Keep the driverack. You need the dedicated crossover and limiting. Even if the mixer could do it all, you would still stand the chance of changing to a scene that doesn't have the proper processing and blow it all up. Not worth the chance.

But, I don't think the mixer can do the brickwall limiting you need to protect the subs.

Gotcha, appreciate the insight.

[Seth]

Bruce is right.

I absolutely love the XR18 and I'd only recommend you step to a X32 if you are running out of inputs on the 18. I had one show I did that used every single input of the XR18, so I bought a 32 channel... never used more than 18 channels... spent money I didn't need to spend. There's not really too much the X32 does that the XR18 won't, other than inputs. There's a few things, but core functionality and capabilities are the same.

As far as using either of them in leu of a Driverack, they do have crossover capability and EQ capability, but what they don't have is a proper brick wall limiter on the output's. There might be a creative signal routing solution to use a channel's compressor as a limiter. But, it's a work around, not the professional and dedicated solution your system requires. 100%... keep the DriveRack and don't get the 32 unless you need the inputs.

[Joman116]

Bruce is right.

I absolutely love the XR18 and I'd only recommend you step to a X32 if you are running out of inputs on the 18. I had one show I did that used every single input of the XR18, so I bought a 32 channel... never used more than 18 channels... spent money I didn't need to spend. There's not really too much the X32 does that the XR18 won't, other than inputs. There's a few things, but core functionality and capabilities are the same.

As far as using either of them in leu of a Driverack, they do have crossover capability and EQ capability, but what they don't have is a proper brick wall limiter on the output's. There might be a creative signal routing solution to use a channel's compressor as a limiter. But, it's a work around, not the professional and dedicated solution your system requires. 100%... keep the DriveRack and don't get the 32 unless you need the inputs.

Appreciate the reply. The XR18 is fantastic. It really grew my business, but now I am running into situations where I've been asked if I had X32 experience, my answer is "sort of" as its similar to the XR18.

The X32 is the gold standard in the segment for even larger shows in my area..and I do like the fact that it has a small screen attached to it. I'm able to sell my xr18 at almost the same price I bought it for ($500) .and think i can snag a used x32 in the $700 range...

[Bruce Weldy]

The X32 is the gold standard in the segment for even larger shows in my area..and I do like the fact that it has a small screen attached to it. I'm able to sell my xr18 at almost the same price I bought it for ($500) .and think i can snag a used x32 in the $700 range...

Are you considering an X32 or an X32 Rack? Two different animals. The X32 has 32 inputs. The X32 Rack does not. It only has 16 inputs on the unit. You'd have to add a stage box to get more.

I just used the M32 Rack Monday night (same thing but the Midas version). The guy that had set it up was using the EQs to create a crossover to utilize aux-fed subs. Personally, I think it's a bad idea as 90% of the bands that come through there don't have a sound man or know how to use that system. I would rather see them use the built-in crossovers in the powered EV speakers and subs than the aux-fed approach as few actually understand how to use it. In fact, I would have suggested an analog board for their situation to make it all idiot-proof......although, even that can be screwed up.

While I'm a Presonus guy and use the R32 rack mixer for my sound shows, when I play my duo show - like I did Monday, I use an XAir12. Then plug direct into the speakers, or in this case - two channels of the M32 Rack.

[Joman116]

The X32 is the gold standard in the segment for even larger shows in my area..and I do like the fact that it has a small screen attached to it. I'm able to sell my xr18 at almost the same price I bought it for ($500) .and think i can snag a used x32 in the $700 range...

Are you considering an X32 or an X32 Rack? Two different animals. The X32 has 32 inputs. The X32 Rack does not. It only has 16 inputs on the unit. You'd have to add a stage box to get more.

I just used the M32 Rack Monday night (same thing but the Midas version). The guy that had set it up was using the EQs to create a crossover to utilize aux-fed subs. Personally, I think it's a bad idea as 90% of the bands that come through there don't have a sound man or know how to use that system. I would rather see them use the built-in crossovers in the powered EV speakers and subs than the aux-fed approach as few actually understand how to use it. In fact, I would have suggested an analog board for their situation to make it all idiot-proof......although, even that can be screwed up.

While I'm a Presonus guy and use the R32 rack mixer for my sound shows, when I play my duo show - like I did Monday, I use an XAir12. Then plug direct into the speakers, or in this case - two channels of the M32 Rack.

*Referring to X32 RACK

[Bruce Weldy]

*Referring to X32 RACK

In that case, you'll get no extra inputs without an additional stage box.

[Joman116]

*Referring to X32 RACK

In that case, you'll get no extra inputs without an additional stage box.

Acknowledged, my prerogative is not more inputs..its getting more familiarity with this x32 platform standard.