Popular in live sound, home studios, and broadcast environments for their small size and strong digital control, the Behringer XR16 and XR18 digital mixers. You will want rack ears, though, if you wish to install your XR series mixer in a conventional 19-inch rack. A Behringer rack ear for XR16/XR18 3D print is ideal whether your originals were lost or you wish to include a unique touch. From downloading to customising to printing your own XR16/XR18 rack mount ears, this all-inclusive manual covers all you need to know. Tailor your setup to your precise specifications to save time and money.
Why 3D print rack ears for Behringer XR16/XR18?
- Affordable Substitute
OEM rack ears for Behringer equipment are either costly or difficult to find. A 3D print provides a low-cost substitute. - Design & Custom Fit
Are you looking for a different profile, extra ventilation, or cable pass-throughs? 3D design lets you customise ears for your configuration. - Quick Turnaround
Print in-house in a few hours rather than waiting days or weeks for delivery. - Strong Enough for Light Touring and Studio
With the correct filament and print parameters, these mounts can easily withstand use in studio racks or in live scenarios. - Environmentally Friendly
Printing just what you need reduces waste. For more sustainability, pick recycled PETG or biodegradable fibres, including PLA.
Where to Look for XR16/XR18 Rack Ear STL Files
Already, the 3D printing community has created a number of ready-to-go designs for Behringer mixers. The ideal locations to locate them are as follows:
- Thingiverse
Look for community-uploaded files by searching “XR18 rack ear” or “Behringer XR16 mount.” These features selected and validated 3D printable designs, which are usually better documented. - Cults3D
With many Behringer accessory models, it offers both free and premium STL files. - Grab CAD
Excellent for changeable CAD files for your own remixing or engineering-grade.
Print only after confirming your mixer model. Though sizes may differ somewhat, the XR16 and XR18 are comparable.
Rack Ear Print Settings Suggested
Mounting audio equipment securely depends on a strong, long-lasting print.
Filament Options
- PETG is perfect for strength and moderate flexibility. It is heat—and impact-resistant. It is easy to print and has increased robustness, making it good for home studio installations.
- ABS is good for tough circumstances, but it needs containment because of warping. Nylon or carbon fibre-reinforced ABS is suitable for pro use, particularly if subjected to travel or regular setup.
Printing Specifications
- Layer Height: 0.2 mm for a nice combination of speed and intricacy.
- Infill: 40–100% depending on needed strength.
- Walls/Shells: Minimum three walls and 5 top/bottom layers.
- Supports: It depends on the mounting lip shape; it is minimal.
Orientation of Print
To guarantee strength where screws will go, lay the ear flat with the mounting face on the construction plate.
Practical Uses & Changes
- Studio Rack Integration
Save desk space by neatly installing your XR18 in a conventional studio rack. - Live Sound Custom Rigs
Create additional mounting tabs or cable cuts for on-the-go events. - Desk or Wall Installation
Convert rack ears into brackets for wall-mounted or under-desk setups. - Builds using Colour Codes
Visually arrange tools using colour filaments or fit your studio theme. - Improvements in ventilation
Vents or gaps should be included to encourage ventilation in warm conditions.
READ MORE – ATAK 3d Print: Your Complete Guide to Tactical 3d Printing
FAQs:
- Will 3d-printed rack ears survive transport?
Yes, especially with PETG or reinforced filament, for light to medium-duty use. For heavy touring, utilise metal or strengthen your print with inserts. - Can I modify the design before printing?
Of course. Edit STL or STEP files with Freecad, Tinkercad, or Fusion 360 to your specifications. - Does printing these components raise legal issues?
Rack ears are not often limited since they are functional components. Unless licensed, avoid selling branded designs. - How can I tell whether the STL file will fit my mixer?
Before printing, look for model-specific labelling (e.g., XR18 vs. XR16) and evaluate dimensions in the slicer. - Is purchasing OEM rack ears more affordable than 3D printing?
Certainly. OEM rack kits could run $20–40 or more. Usually, a 3D print uses under $3 in filament.
More information via internal links
- How to Accurately Calibrate Your 3d Printer
- PETG or PLA: Which Should You Use?
- 3D printable DIY studio equipment
Conclusion:
A Behringer rack ear for XR16/XR18 3D print is a perfect illustration of how 3D printing gives technicians, musicians, and creators control over their equipment configurations. A few hours of printing and the appropriate STL file will allow you to create rack mount solutions fit for your requirements. This DIY method is inexpensive, sustainable, and very gratifying, whether you are refurbishing a used mixer, personalising a mobile rig, or just learning 3D printing via a practical project. Download your file, warm up the printer, and have fun creating your XR16/XR18 mixer rack-ready your way!
