Allen & Heath upgrades XB-14 broadcast mixer

Allen & Heath has launched a new version of its compact broadcast mixer, the XB-14.

Following a number of requests from users, XB-14² incorporates several new features, including a dedicated audition bus, enhanced stereo channel configurations, updated mic preamps, more flexible monitoring, and a new matt paint finish.

Suitable for a broad range of applications, from small radio or internet broadcast studios, to hospital radio, university radio and community radio studios with multiple rooms, the XB-14² is equipped with a variety of features designed for broadcasters, including Telco inputs for telephone callers, mic fader start sensing for external connection and internal automatic muting of the speaker outputs, stereo channel start/cue outputs for transport control, multiple headphone outputs, and an additional stereo bus (Mix B).

It also includes a stereo Audition bus that enables individual channels to be switched away from the main program bus for off-air monitoring. The Telco channel EQ has been replaced with variable high pass / low pass filters for control of the telephone caller feed signal, there is a new external monitor input level control, the pre-amps have been enhanced for lower noise and higher bandwidth, and the stereo inputs have been given more gain and routing options. Finally, the mixer is finished in matt effect paint to reduce surface reflections.

“Whenever we talk to XB-14 customers, they are always enthusiastic about the mixer’s great sound quality and high number of features packed into in a compact frame – features that make installers and broadcasters’ jobs easier, and combined in a way that makes the XB-14 super flexible in a range of studio setups.” explained designer Mike Griffin. “Mk2 includes the remaining features that have been requested by end users over the years. We’re sure they are going to be even happier!”

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