Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX 10-Channel Mixer vs Yamaha MG12XU 12-Channel Mixer with Effects

What separates them

Price history

• Allen & Heath ZEDi-10FX 10-Channel Mixer: lowest $229.00 on Nov 1 at gear4music.com; $229.00 on Nov 2.
• Yamaha MG12XU 12-Channel Mixer with Effects: lowest $349.00 on Nov 1 at The Music Zoo; $469.99 on Nov 2.

Prices at every store

Specs compared

Questions and answers

Which is better for home recording?

The ZEDi-10FX covers most home setups with 10 channels, effects and a USB interface for $229. Pick the MG12XU only if you routinely need more than 10 inputs.

Is the Yamaha worth the extra $120?

Only if you need 12 channels or trust the Yamaha MG line's track record. For 10 channels or fewer, the ZEDi-10FX does the same job for less.

Which has better effects?

Both have onboard effects. The ZEDi-10FX adds a tap-to-tempo button, which is handy for delay and reverb timing; the Yamaha's effects are well regarded but less tempo-friendly.

Which is more portable?

The ZEDi-10FX at 5.09 lbs and a compact frame is clearly the easier one to carry to gigs.

Do both work as USB audio interfaces?

Yes. The ZEDi-10FX sends 4 outputs over USB; the MG12XU also has USB audio. Check your DAW's driver support for either.

Which lasts longer?

Both are steel-chassis mixers from established brands. The Yamaha has a longer public reliability record; the ZEDi-10FX is newer with fewer long-term reports.