Behringer P16 I and M

The Behringer Powerplay 16 provides a new method for personal monitoring that sends audio to an input module (P16-I), converts the signal to 24-bit data, then runs it down a Cat-5 cable into a personal mixer (P16-M). Each input module can feed six mixers or distributors which feed (up to) a further eight mixers (like a computer router) which are even bus powered through the Cat-5 cable.

Initially audio is fed to the P16-I either through 2x8 blocks of ADAT, 16 mono audio channels (¼” TRS), or a combination of the two (eight ADAT/ eight TRS). If using an analogue desk 16 high-headroom TRS inputs make for clean, loud signal with less than one millisecond latency experienced in conversion. Each channel has four gain switches to ensure level consistency, with top-notch 24-bit A/D converters providing clear sound up to 75m from the source. The P16-I also accepts 44.1 or 48K sample rates through various digital sources.

The interface sends signal to the P16-M, a small lightweight mixer feeding either headphones, in-ears, or powered foldback. Each mixer has 16 mono channels that can be linked, grouped; EQ'd and panned at individual volumes, as well as a master bus with its own output, EQ and limiter. The EQ features a fixed bass and treble with sweepable mid cut/ boost for massive tone sculpting capability.

So what are the advantages of having your own mixedr for your headphones? The biggest is you'll have complete control of your own stereo mix to aiding your performance to another level, also having no sound coming out of the wedges results in a cleaner front of house mix, and finally you save money on not having to buy a belt-pack/transmitter, or even wedges or amps.

I tested the Powerplay system with various instruments at home. I sent a stereo mix from my computer to channels one and two, plugged in an acoustic guitar in channel three and a vocal mic in channel four. All sounded loud and clear and it was enjoyable playing along with a stereo mix.

If I was mixing at a typical pub gig using 16 direct outs, I'd set up something like this for a four- to five-piece band: Kick, Snare, Rack (tom) 1, Rack 2, Floor, for my drum channels (1-5). Bass DI, Guitar L, Guitar R, for my instruments (6-8). Vocal L, Centre, Right, Drum Vocals, for all the vocal mics (9-12). Stage Left and Right (which will only be fed to the monitor mix for room ambience) and a stereo reverb send to “wet” drums, and aid vocals (13-16). In this scenario the input module would live in a rack at front of house, Cat-5 cables would run to the stage with the multi-core, with each member having their own mixer (P16-M). Then I'd soundcheck each input, allowing all the members to set up their own private mix with different volume, panning and EQ, while at the same time tweaking my own front of house mix. After the band finishes soundcheck, all the settings can be saved and stored on the P16-M; it's possible to save different mixes for different bands and even different songs.

Behringer's P16 Powerplay monitoring system is a bold step into the future, great for band and especially relevant to churches, school and ensembles that require multiple monitor mixes.