Wing Rack

The Behringer WING Rack is a 48-channel, 28-bus full-stereo digital mixing console in a compact 4RU rackmount design, offering robust features for live sound, studio recording, and broadcast applications. Building on the success of the X32/M32 series, it combines affordability with powerful functionality, earning praise for its flexibility and value. Below is a detailed review based on its features, performance, and user feedback.

Behringer WING Rack Review

Build and Design
- Compact 4RU rackmount form factor, ideal for portable setups or fixed installations.
- 10.1-inch multi-touch touchscreen with adjustable swivel for ergonomic operation, whether rack-mounted or on a table.
- Front panel with 8 buttons, 4 encoders, and a Custom Control section with 16 customizable layers for tailored workflows.
- Durable construction with upgraded Torx screws (replacing Phillips) to prevent stripping, a welcome improvement over the full-size WING.
- Drawback: Some users note the 4RU size is larger than the X32 Rack’s 3RU, which may impact portability for some setups.
Audio Quality and Preamps
- Equipped with 24 Midas PRO mic preamps, delivering high-quality sound with excellent dynamic range, comparable to M32/DL32 series.
- Supports mono, stereo, or mid-side (M/S) channel configurations without sacrificing channel count, enhancing flexibility for stereo in-ear monitoring or complex mixes.
- Some users report a slight hiss or whine in headphone outputs with sensitive IEMs, though not a dealbreaker; solutions like adding capacitors have been suggested.
- Improved sound quality over X32, with better EQ response and processing-intensive effects like reverbs.
I/O and Connectivity
- Extensive I/O: 24 XLR/combo inputs, 8 XLR outputs, 5 headphone outputs (tied to aux sends 1-8 in pairs), 3 AES50 SuperMAC ports (144 in/out channels), and a 48×48 USB audio/MIDI interface.
- StageConnect port for 32-channel I/O over a single XLR/DMX cable, supporting long cable runs (up to 100 feet).
- Internal AoIP module supports optional 64-channel Dante or Waves SoundGrid expansion, ideal for networked audio environments.
- Dual-SD card recorder/player handles up to 64 tracks, with markers for song positions, enhancing live multitrack recording capabilities.
- Limitation: Only 8 analog outputs, which may require additional stageboxes (e.g., StageConnect box) for complex IEM or FOH setups, adding cost and space.
Processing and Effects
- 16 true-stereo effects engines with over 80 algorithms, including emulations of Pultec, SSL, Neve, and other classic gear.
- Each of the 40 stereo input channels features 5 plug-in slots (gate, dynamics, EQ), with 4-band parametric EQ and additional FX slots on 8 aux channels.
- 28 stereo buses (4 main, 8 matrix, 16 aux) with dual inserts, 8-band parametric EQ, stereo imager, and full dynamics processing per bus.
- Auto Pilot automixing for gain-sharing, useful for conferences or broadcast applications.
- Drawback: Single RTA (Real-Time Analyzer) display, with a small non-overlay option on the EQ screen, can be limiting unless using Mixing Station app for full-screen overlay.
Routing and Workflow
- Innovative “Sources” concept stores input settings (gain, phantom power, stereo/mono/M/S, name, icon, color) for quick channel reassignment, streamlining setup and reducing errors.
- Compatible with X32/M32 stageboxes (S16, S32, DL16, DL32), allowing integration with existing systems for cost-effective upgrades.
- Supports DAW control via Mackie MCU/HUI protocols with presets for major DAWs, enhancing studio integration.
- WING Co-Pilot app allows remote control and source editing via iPad, though some users find it slower than third-party apps like Mixing Station.
- Programmable GPIO delays for sequential event triggering (e.g., powering up amp racks after console boot).
- Critique: Some users find the EQ pinch controls in Mixing Station counterintuitive (pinching inward widens bandwidth), and the routing paradigm may require a learning curve for X32 users.
Value and Reliability
- Priced at around $1,599, offering unmatched I/O and processing power for the cost, making it a strong competitor in the rackmount mixer market.
- Users praise its “insane bang for the buck” for live sound and studio applications, with features rivaling more expensive consoles.
- Positive feedback on reliability for live shows and installations, though some caution about long-term durability based on past Behringer products.
- Firmware 2.0 adds Showcontrol for seamless snapshot, snippet, and FX preset management, enhancing live performance workflows.
- Warranty: 1-year standard, extendable to 2 years with registration (US only).
User Experience
- Intuitive interface with a responsive touchscreen and customizable controls, suitable for both beginners (with some mixing knowledge) and professionals.
- Mixing Station app preferred by many for faster operation and better RTA integration over the native WING Co-Pilot app.
- Some frustration with limited analog outputs and headphone output design, requiring additional hardware for extensive IEM setups.
- Users upgrading from X32 Rack report significant improvements in processing power, effects quality, and routing flexibility, though the larger size is a trade-off.

Summary

The Behringer WING Rack is a feature-packed, cost-effective solution for live sound engineers, studio producers, and broadcast professionals needing a powerful yet portable digital mixer. Its 24 Midas PRO preamps, extensive I/O, and flexible routing via the “Sources” concept make it a standout in its price range. The 16 stereo effects engines and 28 stereo buses provide immense creative control, while compatibility with X32/M32 ecosystems ensures easy integration. However, the limited analog outputs, minor headphone noise issues with sensitive IEMs, and occasional app quirks may require workarounds for some users. Overall, the WING Rack delivers exceptional value, earning high praise for its versatility and performance, making it a top choice for those seeking a professional-grade rackmount mixer on a budget.