TEST: Peavey XR 1220

 power mixer! Ouch, I can already see the first of them squinting their eyes tightly, while the rest of the pack storms towards the exit of the room, screaming because of their forcibly acquired experiences in the past.

Don't we all know the drama, especially the writer of this article? Hopelessly undersized power amplifiers with 1x 120 watts mono, 4 channels, one of which has cinch inputs, no proper gain control and a 7-band hum equalizer for the already pressureless overall concept? And then please set up the supplied "boxes" at ear height in front of you at a distance of 20 centimeters, so that you have even the slightest chance of asserting yourself against the bass drum alone. An ice-cold shiver runs down my spine, it was horrible, lousy, out of the question!

Alternatively, you could of course choose the slightly more powerful variation from other manufacturers (2x 150 watts - Hoho!), which then switched off at regular intervals of about 30 minutes due to overheating due to the poor ventilation concept when placed in a rack. The good atmosphere at rehearsals and shows was programmed right away, including a refreshing announcement from the organizer... Oh yes, the construction was incredibly heavy and pretty unwieldy, of course!

Due to digital power amplifiers, such power mixer horror scenarios are definitely a thing of the past, at least if you can believe the performance specifications of the Peavey XR 1220 mixer I was testing. 2x 600 watts at 4 ohms speak a clear language and also want to convince in the context of a noisy rock band.




construction

The Peavey XR 1220 is a 20-channel mixer with an internal stereo power amplifier. As is almost always the case with products in this price range, the motto here is "Designed in the USA, assembled in China". Occasionally one wonders whether any product of stage and studio technology is still not built in the same totalitarian state.

In addition to the easier handling compared to a separate construction of mixer and power amplifier, there is also no wiring, which, for example, significantly reduces the assembly time of the product. In general, it is noticeable that the designers have primarily devoted themselves to the "all-in-one" vocal system use, so the product also has a built-in multi-FX unit and a stereo equalizer. Everything together weighs just under 11 kilograms, which used to weigh just one mains transformer of a Peavey CS 800.

In terms of connection technology, the input section runs in the usual way, that is to say XLR, or line input via jack plus loop-in point in front of the catch-up amplifier. Behind the gain controller and a subsonic filter at 80 Hz is a classic three-band tone control (shelving treble +/- 15 dB - 12 kHz), (shelving bass +/- 18 dB - 80 Hz), (bandpass low mids +/- 15 dB - 450 Hz) and a combined two-band high-mid controller, which starts at a reduction of 2 kHz up to - 15 dB and increases the range by 4 kHz up to + 15 dB.

Two pre-fade monitor outs support the live character of the product, followed by the panorama control, a clip LED, a signal LED, a mute switch, a 60 mm fader and a PFL switch. So far, so standard. Channels 19 and 20 manage any stereo signals that may occur, such as keyboards, or feed various stereo lines such as notebooks or MP3 players.

In the total area, greater attention was paid to eliminating any feedback, in accordance with the primary area of application of the product. The mixer has the RTA connection of a measurement microphone. Over two test runs, the mixer, in combination with the test microphone and noise generator, analyzes any feedback loops that may occur and adjusts the equalizer accordingly.

In addition to the standard full-range operation, the product can also be operated as a satellite solution plus an external active woofer or as a double mono full-range plus a passive monitor. Furthermore, the classic active monitor solution is of course possible via the respective sends. A small P.A. can also be connected via two regular XLR outs. be approached while using the internal power amplifier for the operation of the monitors. On the back, the XR 1220 comes with a (tacky) on/off switch, the IEC connector and four Speakon connections (2x left / right each).


Practice

Even if the idea of protecting the environment is commendable, it is impractical to only include the manual as a CD-ROM and not even have a quick-start sheet at the start. If you want to look something up on the spot, you're stuck without a laptop or iPhone. I wonder when you can only look up the manuals on the Internet and the mixer comes with WLAN.

While the power mixer's steel frame leaves a good impression, all the moving components on the surface frankly fail to impress me. While the EQ knobs and the faders do their job with some play in the lateral guidance, but all in all still quite passable, the sliders of the sum equalizer unfortunately work mechanically at the lowest level. Notchy, without guide resistance and equipped with sharp edges, you just want to get the setting over with quickly so that you don’t have to adjust it again if possible. Due to the lack of counters on the housing, the endless controllers in the FX area also fall flat through the grid of mechanical demands.

In terms of sound, the filters operate in the middle segment. With the combined two-way high-mid control, even an inexperienced user can generate a practical sound in just a few simple steps, which can be more advantageous than one might imagine at first glance, especially for singers who are not technically experienced. Anyone who has ever seen an average frontman banging away at the parametric equalizer knows what I'm talking about ;-). Due to the somewhat hard design, the rest is in the midfield in terms of sound, where it delivers average values, but ultimately cannot cause any damage.


Conclusion

With the XR 1220, Peavey delivers a flexible power mixer whose primary area of application was designed for vocal system operation. Because of the powerful power amplifier, the relatively easy handling and the high flexibility, the mixer will find its buyers, although in my opinion some mechanical processing features should be reconsidered.

All in all, the mixer convinces with a good practical value with high performance specifications and due to the production in Google's new enemy China with a low selling price.


Additional Informations:

- Peavey Electronics Corporation - A Comprehensive Company Overview
Introduction: Peavey Electronics Corporation, commonly known as Peavey, is an iconic American manufacturer of musical instruments, audio equipment, and professional sound systems. Founded by Hartley Peavey in 1965, the company has grown from humble beginnings in a small Mississippi basement to become a globally recognized brand in the music industry. With an unwavering commitment to innovation, quality, and affordability, Peavey has consistently delivered products that cater to musicians, sound professionals, and audio enthusiasts alike. This comprehensive report delves into the history, products, contributions, and impact of Peavey in the world of music and sound.

Historical Background: Peavey Electronics Corporation was established in 1965 by Hartley Peavey, a young entrepreneur with a passion for electronics and music. The company's foundation was laid in Meridian, Mississippi, where Hartley started repairing and building audio equipment in his parents' basement. He was determined to create products that were not only exceptional in performance but also accessible to musicians of all levels. This vision became the cornerstone of Peavey's success.

2. Product Line: Peavey offers a diverse range of products that cater to various segments of the music and sound industry. Some of their key product categories include:

2.1 Musical Instruments: Peavey manufactures a wide array of musical instruments, including electric guitars, bass guitars, acoustic guitars, and drums. Their instruments are known for their robust build quality, great playability, and affordability, making them popular choices for both beginners and seasoned musicians.

2.2 Audio Equipment: Peavey's audio equipment division produces a vast range of amplifiers, mixers, speakers, and signal processors. Their amplifiers, in particular, have garnered a reputation for their reliability and power, making them a staple in live sound applications and recording studios.

2.3 Professional Sound Systems: Peavey is also a significant player in the professional sound system market, offering solutions for large-scale events, installations, and concert venues. Their line array systems and loudspeakers are renowned for their performance and clarity.
2.4 Specialty Products: Apart from musical instruments and audio equipment, Peavey has diversified its product offerings to include other items such as lighting systems, microphones, and specialty audio gear, further solidifying its presence in the professional audio industry.

3. Technological Innovations: Peavey's commitment to innovation has been a driving force behind its enduring success. Throughout its history, the company has introduced numerous groundbreaking technologies to the market. One notable example is the "TransTube" technology, introduced in the 1980s. This innovation allowed solid-state amplifiers to emulate the warm and rich tones of tube amplifiers, revolutionizing the guitar amp industry and earning Peavey immense praise from musicians worldwide.

4. Contributions to the Music Industry: Peavey's impact on the music industry extends beyond their products. The company has played a vital role in promoting music education and supporting aspiring musicians. They have actively sponsored various music programs, contests, and events, fostering the growth of musical talent across different genres.

5. Global Reach and Market Presence: Over the years, Peavey has expanded its reach and established a global presence. Their products are sold in numerous countries through a network of authorized dealers and distributors. Additionally, Peavey maintains a strong online presence, making their products accessible to customers worldwide.

6. Endorsements and Artist Relations: Peavey's reputation for producing reliable and quality gear has attracted endorsements from many prominent musicians and bands. Over the years, numerous artists, including renowned guitarists, bassists, and vocalists, have chosen Peavey products as an integral part of their sound.

7. Sustainability Initiatives: Peavey has taken steps to promote sustainability and environmental responsibility in their operations. The company has implemented eco-friendly practices in manufacturing, packaging, and waste management, aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute positively to the environment.

Conclusion: Peavey Electronics Corporation has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the music and sound industry. From its humble beginnings in a basement to becoming a global leader, Peavey's commitment to innovation, quality, and affordability has resonated with musicians, sound professionals, and audio enthusiasts worldwide. Their diverse product line, technological advancements, and contributions to music education have cemented their position as an iconic and influential player in the world of music and sound. With a legacy of success and a dedication to progress, Peavey continues to shape the industry and inspire musicians for generations to come.


- Power Mixers - A Comprehensive Exploration of a Versatile Audio Solution
Introduction: Power mixers, also known as powered mixers or powered consoles, are an integral component of professional audio systems. Combining the functionalities of a mixer and a power amplifier into a single unit, power mixers offer a convenient and efficient solution for sound reinforcement and audio distribution in a variety of applications. This comprehensive report delves into the features, benefits, applications, and technological advancements of power mixers in the world of audio engineering.

Understanding Power Mixers: A power mixer is a compact and portable audio device that integrates multiple channels of audio inputs, signal processing capabilities, and built-in power amplifiers. Unlike traditional mixers, which require separate power amplifiers to drive speakers, power mixers have the amplifiers integrated within the same unit. This consolidation streamlines the setup process, reduces cable clutter, and simplifies the overall audio system configuration.

2. Features and Functionalities: Power mixers typically include the following features:

2.1 Audio Inputs: Power mixers offer a range of audio inputs, such as XLR, 1/4-inch jacks, RCA connectors, and sometimes digital inputs like USB or Bluetooth. These inputs accommodate various sources, including microphones, instruments, media players, and electronic devices.

2.2 Mixing Capabilities: Power mixers provide multiple channels with individual volume controls, equalization (EQ), and sometimes built-in effects like reverb, delay, or chorus. This allows audio engineers to balance and shape the sound from different sources.

2.3 Power Amplifiers: The integrated power amplifiers in power mixers are specifically designed to match the mixer's output and ensure sufficient power to drive connected speakers. They are rated by wattage per channel, and some models offer bridging options to combine multiple channels for higher output power.

2.4 Speaker Outputs: Power mixers provide speaker outputs, usually in the form of SpeakON or 1/4-inch jacks, allowing direct connection to passive speakers without the need for external amplification.

2.5 Master Controls: Power mixers have master volume controls, main output level adjustments, and sometimes graphic equalizers for fine-tuning the overall sound.

3. Benefits and Advantages: Power mixers offer several advantages that make them a popular choice for various audio applications:

3.1 Portability: Combining a mixer and a power amplifier in a single unit reduces the number of components and cables needed, making power mixers highly portable and ideal for mobile setups.

3.2 Easy Setup: Power mixers streamline the setup process, as users only need to connect audio sources and speakers directly to the mixer without the complexity of external amplifiers.

3.3 Space Efficiency: In space-limited environments, such as small venues or home studios, power mixers save valuable space by combining multiple functionalities into one device.

3.4 Quick and Efficient Sound Reinforcement: Power mixers are perfect for live sound reinforcement applications, such as bands, DJs, public speaking events, and conferences, where a quick setup and ease of use are essential.

4. Applications: Power mixers find applications in a wide range of scenarios, including:
4.1 Live Performances: In live music performances, power mixers serve as the central hub for mixing and amplifying various audio sources, such as microphones, instruments, and playback devices.

4.2 Mobile DJ Setups: DJs often use power mixers for their mobile setups, as they offer an all-in-one solution for mixing music and driving speakers.

4.3 Public Address Systems: Power mixers are common in public address systems used in events, conferences, and presentations, where clear and powerful audio is essential.

4.4 Houses of Worship: Power mixers are utilized in houses of worship for delivering spoken word, music, and other audio content during religious services.

5. Technological Advancements: With advancing technology, power mixers have seen significant improvements in recent years. Digital power mixers now offer advanced signal processing, customizable presets, digital effects, and precise control over every aspect of the audio mix.

6. Conclusion: Power mixers are a versatile and efficient solution for sound reinforcement and audio distribution. Their integration of a mixer and power amplifier in one compact unit simplifies setup and operation, making them popular for a wide range of applications. As technology continues to advance, power mixers are likely to see further enhancements, delivering even more advanced features and capabilities to meet the evolving demands of audio professionals and enthusiasts alike.