Yes, there is a way to improve audio quality with the Behringer Xenyx 802 Premium 8-Input 2-Bus Mixer with Xenyx Mic Preamps and British EQs. The Behringer mixer is a cost effective way to enhance the sound coming from your iPod, computer, radio, etc. Mine arrived in the mail just a few days ago.

Right out of the box I was impressed with the look and feel of the Behringer 802, if not a little intimidated. I had a general idea what I was getting into, but there was a small learning curve. It’s a matter of acquiring the right cables — Hosa CMP153 Y Cable 1/8 Inch TRS to Dual 1/4 Inch TS Cable – 3 Foot.

This is a 3.5 mm (1/8 in.) jack which splits into two 1/4 in. jacks, sending a stereo signal to or from the mixer. Hosa is definitely a quality brand that you can trust. Hosa cables are reliable and not cheaply built. One might want to eventually obtain an external pair of good speakers — Audioengine A2 Premium Powered Desktop Speakers – Pair (Black) to run with this mixer.

What can be done with the Behringer 802 mixer? Why would one need to hook a mixer up to a computer? Good questions. A number of things can be accomplished: karaoke, editing audio, looping, creating special effects, recording, mixing, playing music, podcasting, and broadcasting.

The Behringer 802 is equipped with two microphone jacks which will make use of the studio quality microphones, those that connect with XLR cables — Electro-Voice RE27N/D Dynamic Cardioid Multipurpose Microphone, or Heil PR-40 Dynamic Studio Recording Microphone. These are microphones that professional broadcasters use. Hobbyists with home studios now demand this same sound.

Play music and sing between sets via the RCA CD/Tape inputs (assignable to main mix or control room/phones outputs) and record your performance to an outboard recording device via the RCA outputs.

I will tell you the audio quality coming out of my computer sounds much better now! My headphones certainly came alive. There are decent lows, but not overpowering. If you like listening to music with your iPod, CD player, or laptop, the Behringer 802 is a must.

The Behringer will act as a preamp if you like to talk on 2-way radios — CB, amateur radio, etc. Your transceiver will send quality sound through a microphone and improve signal strength at the same time.

For a little more than 50 bucks, this is a gem that adds to the home studio. Excellent value at an excellent price. I’m happy with it and I would highly recommend it to any audiophile or electronic junkie.