TURNTABLE LAB

Rane
TTM 57SL Mixer + Serato

OVERVIEW:
With the TTM-57, Rane has raised the bar for 2 channel mixers once again. This mixer is built on the platform of their TTM-56 (already the gold standard for 2 channel mixers), and features the Serato Live program built-in. The immediate effect is that you no longer need the Serato hub, but you can also control the Serato program directly from the mixer and they've included tons of new features as well.

FEATURES
Obviously, the main draw here is having an all-in-one digital/analog mixing system. The TTM-57 not only comes with the Serato software for your computer, but it also features the Serato interface built right into the mixer. So all you need to do is plug the TTM-57 directly into your computer without the hassle of an external hub + wires. The TTM-57 also features on board controls for the Serato program which basically allow you to control everything within the software from your mixer, so you'll barely need to touch the computer. In a new move, the TTM-57 has on board effects (filter and delay) with six possible insert points, assignable to pre- or post-channel faders for both programs. It also features recording capability (record your mix directly onto your laptop), and many more useful tweaks to the Serato / TTM-56 systems. Full features will be explored once this mixer is in stock.

OUR OPINION
This is an extremely impressive mixer, and another great step in the Rane line. The TTM-56 was already our favorite 2 channel mixer, and Serato the preferred digital dj'ing solution for most djs, so the combination of the two is nothing short of revolutionary. As with all Rane products, you can be ensured of the highest quality across the board- durability, parts, sound quality, user friendliness, customer service and everything else. Highly recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
rane - mixers / all - digital djing / high-end - mixers / lab recommended - mixers / and more

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Pioneer
DJM-400 Mixer

OVERVIEW
With the DJM-400, Pioneer has finally made a mid-range mixer that incorporates some of their famous on-board effects, in-demand features and the general style of the popular DJM-600 and 500 mixers. The DJM-400 is like a streamlined DJM-600 with two channels, but it also has quite a few unique features including Pioneer's new in-loop sampler, kills on the 3 band equalizer and a completely digital 24bit/96Khz mixing bus.

FEATURES
In terms of basic mixer functions, the DJM-400 is geared towards mix DJs and is set up in standard fashion. There are 2 phono/line RCA inputs, 2 CD RCA inputs with fader start connection, 2 master RCA outputs, and 2 ¼" mic inputs. The crossfader feels similar to the one used in the DJM-500 and DJM-600, but it has been improved for both scratching and durability. The crossfader curve is adjustable with a three position switch, and while it doesn't feature the razor sharp cut that scratch djs demand these days, you can definitely scratch with it and the curve is much sharper than the 600 or 500. In comparison to previous Pioneer mixers, the eq's have been pumped up considerably and now offer a full kill on all three bands (the trim also goes down to kill). The 2 mic channels each have separate level controls with a mic master eq (lo/hi) and an on/off/talkover switch (talkover is activated when you speak into the mic, then all other sound is taken down 20db). The headphone cueing offers all the necessary options for monitoring: both channels and the master output can either be heard on their own, or in any combination (ie: when both channel 1 and master are on, you hear channel 1 in the left headphone and the master in the right).

The digital 24bit/96Khz mixing bus is the platform that sets the DJM-400 apart from other mixers in this price range. Not only does it process the sound cleanly and provide an excellent signal for users of digital equipment like Serato and Final Scratch, it also gives the DJM-400 enough power to do all the "intelligent" things like count BPMs, auto synch effects on-beat, run the sampler and more. The effects are the classic set of Delay, Echo, Flanger, Filter, and Phaser plus a couple new ones- Robot and Roll. They are assignable to channel 1, channel 2, mic, or master and are controlled with a depth knob, beat variables (1/1, 2/1, 4/1, etc) and 2 pitch control buttons (+/-). The effects are automatically synched up with your music when you engage the BPM counter.

The sampler is something we haven't seen before. Pioneer calls it the "in-loop sampler" and it allows you to automatically loop up 4 beats of a song for on the fly remixes and mashups. In other words, you can set it to record on a drum break or whatever you want, the sampler cleanly grabs 4 beats (note: beats, not bars), then loops them up and stores them in the bank buttons. The time is not variable- it will grab 4 beats whether the song in question is 150bpm or 30bpm- but through messing with your sample points and using the tap-in bpm counter you can actually get pretty creative and do more with it than you'd think. You can also use it to record beatless samples, noises, and acapellas but the playback will still be looped. Playback functions the same way as the effects: you can assign your sample/loop to any channel (ch.1, ch. 2, mic, or main) and control the tempo through the pitch buttons and the volume through the depth knob. There are 5 different banks to store loops, with a total of up to 12 seconds sampling time.

OUR OPINION
There's no question that the Pioneer DJM-400 offers an awful lot in a relatively small and inexpensive package. The sound quality will be great across the board, even the loops are run through the 24bit/96Khz mixing bus so there is no loss of quality or noticeable downgrade from the source. The effects are always fun, and with the right touch they can make your set that much better. And the in-loop sampler is something we could see being a really useful tool for many DJs. It's unfortunate that Pioneer didn't take it a step further and include the great crossfader that was used in their DJM-707 and 909 mixers, but for anybody who isn't heavily into scratching, this mixer offers plenty room to maneuver and quite a lot to play with. It also comes at a price point that will get you into the big boy club mixer world without having to spend $1000 or more.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
pioneer - mixers / mid-range - mixers / lab recommended - mixers / all mixers

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Vestax
VMC-002XLu USB Mixer - Black

OVERVIEW
The VMC-002XLu is the upgraded version of the popular (and now discontinued) VMC-002XL mixer. This new version gets a sleek black finish and adds a USB port for easy connectivity to your computer. It features a simple, durable 2 channel design, upgradable crossfader, and XLR outputs that get you professional level connectivity at a very inexpensive price.

FEATURES
The VMC-002XLu is your basic entry level, 2 channel mixer, beefed up in terms of sound quality and durability and now the addition of a USB port. The USB port is a great since you can bypass the need for an interface and record vinyl or mixes directly into your computer (recording software needed). It has 2 phono and 2 line inputs (channel 1 and channel 2), plus 1 microphone input with volume control. Each channel has trim adjustment and 3 band EQs that go from completely off (kill) to +6dB. The crossfader is an ALPS fader (upgradeable to the CF-PCV) with a curve control switch on the front panel for "soft" or "sharp" crossfading. It also has a master/cue mix knob so you can practice in the headphones. As mentioned before, one of the main attractions of this mixer is the option for professional XLR outputs, which allow you to send a higher quality signal to any piece of equipment. The VMC-002XL also offers a standard RCA out, which you could use for your "record" out.

OPINION
The VMC-002XL gives you excellent mid-level quality and features at a very economical price. It's an ideal choice for most non-club situations (home and small studio), and with it's three band EQs and XLR outs could even be used in a club if you were in a pinch. It's compact size won't take up too much space, and it has all the necessary features for most dj's (and digital DJs now with the addition of a USB port)0. Scratch DJs will like possibility of upgrading to a PCV crossfader and there really isn't much more you can ask for at this price range.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vestax - mixers / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / basic - mixers / mid-range - mixers / and more

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Rane
TTM 56S Mixer

OVERVIEW
TTM56 TO TTM56S IMPROVEMENTS
- universal internal power supply works
anywhere in the world (100-240 VAC)

- all four inputs are now Phono/Line switchable, now letting you plug in 4 turntables or 4 CD players, or any combination

- both 1/4" and 3.5 mm headphone jacks

- transform switches are now kill switches

- operation is simplified by putting all the controls you need on top, and increasing the width by one inch


The Rane TTM56 has been a top choice for those looking for an extremely high quality 2-channel mixer and now with the upgraded TTM56S (see above for improvements), the best just got better. The TTM56S has everything you need, whether you're a turntablist or mix DJ, from powerful 3 band-EQ and post-fader effects, to accurate and long lasting non-contact faders, this mixer has it all.

FEATURES
Performance and quality are what Rane is known for and the TTM56S delivers. It starts with a newly upgraded internal power supply that works anywhere in the world and four inputs that are now Phono/Line switchable, letting you plug in 4 turntables or 4 CD players, or any combination for versatility with different setups. Additional upgrades include both 1/4" and 3.5 mm headphone jacks (in case you misplace that adapter), transform switches that are now kill switches, and simplified operation created by putting all the controls you need on top, and increasing the width of the unit by one inch.

All the original TTM56 features that made the mixer so popular are still present including powerful "Accelerated Slope" High, Mid and Low EQs that go from +6db to Off on both channels, non-contact magnetic crossfader and up faders with hamster switches and contour curve designed to never bleed or crackle, post-fader FlexFX which allows for external reverb and echo delay effects to respond to fader action, and mic input with EQ and dedicated effects loop.

OUR OPINION
This TTM56 has proven to be a great mixer that DJs can trust, and with the improvements on the TTM56S it's sure to be around for a long time. The mixer performs like a champ and has top notch features all around, from powerful EQs, effects control, and incredible feeling faders that last. An excellent choice for any style of DJ. Highly Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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rane - mixers / high-end - mixers / lab recommended - mixers / all mixers

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Vestax
VMC-004XL Silver Mixer

OVERVIEW
The new upgraded version of this popular Vestax mixer. The VMC series combines features and low price to offer some of the best values in the mixer market. And with most manufacturers increasing the size of their new models, the VMC series is one of the few offering more compact designs. The VMC-004XL is the 4 channel version and presents an excellent value at its price range.

FEATURES
This version of VMC-004XL improves on the previous model with XLR outputs and better EQ features. The professional level XLR outputs will help you maximize the improved sound quality on this mixer, and give you a reliable output for all your recording / dj'ing needs. You also get two additional RCA outputs (with separate master volume control) for additional options. The EQs have also been improved, going from completely off (kill) to +4dB on each channel. Another key feature is that in addition to the Master LED meter, each channel has its own meter for checking individual output (and looking real cool). The crossfader is an ALPS fader (upgradeable to the CF-PCV) with a curve control switch on the front panel for "soft" or "sharp" crossfading. There are two microphone inputs, both of which are assignable to channel one or channel two (with full use of the trim, 3 band EQ, channel fader, etc). It also has a master/cue mix knob so you can practice in the headphones.

OPINION
The VMC-004XL is a tight package for all styles of djs and experience levels. Besides the compact size and useful features, the greatest strength of this mixer is the design. Everything is clearly laid out, and operating the 4 channels is quite easy with a rotary select for cueing and easy channel assigning. This is an excellent choice for a home or small bar setup, and the four channels give you room to grow without taking up to much space.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vestax - mixers / basic - mixers / lab recommended - mixers / all mixers

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Vestax
VMC-004XLu USB Mixer - Black

OVERVIEW
The VMC-004XLu adds USB connectivity and a sleek black finish to the Vestax's bestselling (but now discontinued) compact 4 channel mixer. It also features an upgradeable crossfader, durable and compact design, and XLR outs for pro level connectiviy making it an excellent value at its price range.

FEATURES
The addition of a USB port is the main new feature for the 004 model. The USB port is a great since you can bypass the need for an interface and record vinyl or mixes directly into your computer (recording software needed). It features 4 channels, 8 RCA inputs, 2 mic inputs, 3 band Isolator EQ per channel (With LEDs for each channel), and an adjustable ALPS crossfader (soft or sharp crossfade modes) which can be upgraded to the popular CF-PCV crossfader found in more expensive Vestax models. There are also XLR outs which allow you to send a higher quality signal to any piece of equipment as well as 2 master RCA outs which can be used as "record" outs as well.

OPINION
The VMC-004XLu is a tight package for all styles of DJs and experience levels. Besides the compact size, the greatest strength of the VMC-004 is the design. Everything is clearly laid out and operating the 4 channels is quite easy with a rotary select for cueing and easy channel assigning. And now with the addition of a USB port, the value is just incredible. This is an excellent choice for a home setup, and the four channels give you room to grow without taking up to much space.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vestax - mixers / basic - mixers / mid-range - mixers / lab recommended - mixers / and more

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Rane
Empath Mixer - Black

OVERVIEW
Rane's answer to the multi-function dilemma. Their goal here was to create a club mixer flexible enough for any type of DJ, in any setting, without taking up a lot of space. After preliminary testing, Rane has achieved all those goals.

1) Keeping to the 10" format, Rane has made the most versatile mixer in this range. If you've used a conventional, wide format club mixer, then you will understand why this is such an advancement.

2) Works with any sound system, club and home, anywhere in the world. A universal, 100 to 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz internal power supply allows using the mixer anywhere in the world without adapters; XLR, TRS or RCA connections eliminates mismatching plugs; and there are even 2 headphone jacks to accommodate 1/8" and 1/4" plugs.

3) Sound. We stand by that Rane's have the best sound. And to ensure this quality Rane has included 2 key features:
1. Auto Gain feature automatically adjusts sound when switching sources. The sound will never be too quiet or clipped.
2. Full cut, accelerated slope EQs, the best available.
3. New Penny & Giles faders. All 4 faders are the P&G, quickly becoming the industry high-end standard.
4. Extras. The Empath features many innovations not found on other mixers:
a. Assignable CD triggers work with any CD player.
b. Two band headphone EQ.
c. Effects processors assignable to all 3 channels plus mic.
d. Four function Level meters read stereo cue, stereo master mix, split cue, or main output.

Verdict: Pluses
Sound quality, Rane construction, multiple features, simplicity of use. This is definitely the easiest, most intuitive 3 channel mixer we've tested. Although we have not tried this in a club system situation, based on Rane's track record, we can conclude that it is top of the line.

Verdict: Minuses
No true weaknesses. Price is high, but reasonable for a full featured club mixer. Battle DJs might find the face to be to cluttered.
reviewed by mgmnt

file under:
rane - mixers / high-end - mixers / lab recommended - mixers / all mixers

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Rane
Empath Mixer - Blue

Rane's answer to the multi-function dilemma. Their goal here was to create a club mixer flexible enough for any type of DJ, in any setting, without taking up a lot of space. After preliminary testing, Rane has achieved all those goals.

1) Keeping to the 10" format, Rane has made the most versatile mixer in this range. If you've used a conventional, wide format club mixer, then you will understand why this is such an advancement.

2) Works with any sound system, club and home, anywhere in the world. A universal, 100 to 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz internal power supply allows using the mixer anywhere in the world without adapters; XLR, TRS or RCA connections eliminates mismatching plugs; and there are even 2 headphone jacks to accommodate 1/8" and 1/4" plugs.

3) Sound. We stand by that Rane's have the best sound. And to ensure this quality Rane has included 4 key features:

1. Auto Gain feature automatically adjusts sound when switching sources. The sound will never be too quiet or clipped.
2. Full cut, accelerated slope EQs, the best available.
3. New Penny & Giles faders. All 4 faders are the P&G, quickly becoming the industry high-end standard.
4. Extras. The Empath features many innovations not found on other mixers:

• Assignable CD triggers work with any CD player.
• Two band headphone EQ.
• Effects processors assignable to all 3 channels plus mic.
• Four function Level meters read stereo cue, stereo master mix, split cue, or main output.

Verdict: Pluses
Sound quality, Rane construction, multiple features, simplicity of use. This is definitely the easiest, most intuitive 3 channel mixer we've tested. Although we have not tried this in a club system situation, based on Rane's track record, we can conclude that it is top of the line.

Verdict: Minuses
No true weaknesses. Price is high, but reasonable for a full featured club mixer. Battle DJs might find the face to be to cluttered.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
rane - mixers / high-end - mixers / lab recommended - mixers / all mixers

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