OVERVIEW
Allen & Heath has been making large strides in the dj/club mixer market for the last couple years, first gaining attention with their big multi-channel, multi-function mixers. Their mixers have gained a reputation for exceptionally sturdy construction, excellent sound quality and features...
expand review that have been developed through close interaction with djs. The Xone 02 is their first 2 channel mixer, designed with the hip hop/battle dj in mind.
FEATURES
The Xone 02 comes equipped with a Penny & Giles crossfader and VCA faders for the channel faders. All three faders feature curve control and reverse buttons on the front panel. Both channels feature independent level controls for the phono/line input so you can quickly switch between CD and phono inputs without worrying about drastic level changes. The 3 band eqs are on sliders, and range from +8db boost to a full kill at –26db. It also has two microphone inputs with 3 band eq, effects send & return assignable to both channels, and a reverse button for the channels. There are two outputs available- the master with XLR outs, and the booth or link output with RCA outs. For traveling djs, this mixer features an internal power supply converter that allows for use in all voltage ranges. The construction of the mixer is similar to Rane & Ecler with heavy duty outer panels, strong connections and a clean layout.
NOTE: Due to voltage issues, this mixer will only work for US customers ONLY. Please take note if you are a foreign customer.
OVERVIEW
This is the newly updated AEM100i featuring the long-awaited Innofader and a sleek new faceplate. The third version of the...
expand review AEM100i replaces the Pro X Fader with the Innofader for the most advanced crossfader performance. The Innofader is a top notch non-contact fader that boasts super smooth performance and NO BLEEDING OR CRACKING EVER with no cleaning required. As with the previous version, this mixer also features high quality built-in effects, curve adjustable up faders, and powerful 3-band EQ. A solid mixer all around and especially useful for scratch and battle DJs.
FEATURES
The built-in effects and Innofader Crossfader are what really set this mixer apart. Firstly, there are separate effects controls for each channel, which is a step up in itself as you have to assign effects to one channel or the master on most mixers with effects. It also includes a cue to preview the effect before initializing. The effects include a white noise generator, a square oscillator with different knobs for pitch and gain, a stutter effect, digitize effect, phaser effect, and a band-pass/band-cut for high and low pass filters. The white noise generator is great when used with the oscillator, which produces striking synth effects that can be controlled by the oscillator pitch and gain knobs. The "stutter" function chops the sound in different frequencies that can range from slow to rapid. The "digitize" function effects the sound of your record so that it has a low bit feel, giving it that grungy sound, while the phaser provides classic sweeping effects. There is also a dry/wet fader controlling how much of the effect is in the mix.
As for the fader, the Innofader is setting up to be the new standard for high performance crossfaders. With smooth non-contact performance for no bleeding and cracking ever without cleaning, precision output, ultra wide range for tension adjustment, super adjustable curve and single cut-in adjustment for both sides. The fader also features an incredibly sturdy design with an 8mm stem (rather than 4mm on a lot of other faders) and long body type that will hold together for years of aggressive use with out breaking. This fader is shaping up to become the top choice for scratch and hip-hop DJs who demand long-life and smooth performance.
The standard features here are solid. It features a powerful 3 band slider EQ for each channel, capable of completely cutting out low, mid or high frequencies. Each channel is switchable between phono/line/aux, with separate RCA inputs for each on the back. The AEM100 has balanced master XLR outputs, an option which can noticeably improve your sound quality, plus standard RCA master outs, RCA booth outs and RCA record outs. The AEM100i also includes two 1/4 headphone outputs, a 1/8 headphone outputs, and two 1/4 mic inputs, and crossfader reverse switch.
OUR OPINION
The third version of the AEM100i is a great improvement on an already great mixer. With the inclusion of the Innofader and the sleek new red and black faceplate, this mixer provides a considerably better user experience for fader-heavy DJs and looks more attractive too. As for Audio Innovate mixers, we have yet to hear anything negative about them, and customers who have bought the AEM100 are very pleased with their purchase, especially the effects. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The NUO2.0 is the upgraded version of Ecler's popular NUO2 2-channel mixer. The NUO2.0 boasts improved electronics for even better sound quality, an anodized-aluminum faceplate with etched lettering and graphics, and high quality VU meters borrowed from the EVO5. This versatile mixer...
expand review also features high quality EQ's, kill switches, and FX sends, as well as upgradable faders with curve control and reverse to suit the needs of both mix and scratch DJs.
FEATURES
The slimmest and most compact of the NUO line, the NUO2.0 features 2 mixing channels, 1 mic/line channel, 2 phono/3 line inputs a balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA master out and unbalanced RCA booth out. This new version inherits many of the features of it's predecessor like an upgradable crossfader (to ETERNAL) with curve, reverse and cut-in adjustment, 3 band full EQs with kill switches and extra large ergonomic EQ knobs. FX send control per channel with pre/post fader selector is also available. The newly upgraded model also boasts better even sound quality (Ecler has a great reputation for sound), an anodized-aluminum faceplate with etched lettering and graphics, and high quality VU meters borrowed from the EVO5.
OPINION
The NUO2.0 is a versatile, high quality, compact mixer for all styles of DJing. Scratch and battle DJs will benefit from the full featured, upgradeable crossfader and slim profile, while mix DJs will love the excellent sound quality and EQ options (as well as the extra large knobs). A great value for the price. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
Upgraded version of Ecler's NUO 3-channel mixer. The Nuo3.0 boasts upgraded electronics and analog components for even better sound quality (Ecler mixers are reknowned to have some of the best sound in the industry). This robust and versatile mixer features full cut,...
expand review precise EQs with large ergonomic knobs, pro FX send and loop functions, as well as upgradeable faders with curve and cut-in to suit all styles of DJing.
FEATURES
The NUO3.0 features 3 mixing channels, 1 balanced XLR mic input, 3 phono/3 line inputs a balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA master out and unbalanced RCA booth out (perfect for monitoring in small installations/studios). This updated version inherits many of the features of it's predecessor like an upgradable, fully assignable crossfader (to ETERNAL) with curve, reverse and cut-in adjustment, plus 3 band full cut EQs extra large ergonomic EQ knobs. FX send control per channel with pre/post fader selector is also available. The newly upgraded model also features improved electronics with the best analog components to obtain higher sound performance overall, high quality VU meters borrowed from the EVO5.
OUR OPINION
Like the other mixers in the NUO line, the NUO3.0 is a robust, versatile, pro mixer suitable for all styles of DJing. With the upgraded sound quality plus full featured faders and impeccable EQ's, Ecler has just made a good thing even better. This 3-channel model is perfect for DJ setups with more than just a pair of turntables. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
Korg's KM-202 merges a top quality 2-channel with numerous EQ options and crossfader adjustment with their renowned KAOSS Pad interface to create a powerful mixing tool for the creative DJ. The possibilty of adding high-end effects directly from the unit creates the...
expand review opportunity for dynamic mixes and unique musical experiences.
FEATURES
The KM-202 is a 2-channel, 24-bit digital mixer that delivers huge headroom and pristine audio quality. The most unique feature of the KM-202 is the onboard Kaoss Pad which features one hundred effects (including many tap tempo BPM effects) accessible with a swipe of your finger to add unlimited creativity to your DJ sets. It is easily accesible and placed in the center of the mixer with a KAOSS button on each channel for quick, independent control of effects and FX Release function which allows reverb and delay tails to smoothly decay through preset and effect changes.
DJs will also appreciate the programmable crossfader which allows you to adjust the response and curve to suit your style, and the six independent types of EQ (from powerful high-pass filters, to unique "Hyped" and "Isolator" EQ curves; plus every channel has a dedicated three-band EQ [Hi/Mid/Low] that responds in different ways according to the EQ curve) that deliver great flexibility to shape your mix and sounds.
OUR OPINION
With the huge success of the KAOSS Pads, it's no surprise Korg made the next logical step and created a high-end mixer with the KAOSS technology built in. They nailed everything creative DJs might want (especially advanced crossfader and EQ options) with a decent price tag. -snackmaster
OVERVIEW
Korg's KM-402 merges a top quality 4-channel with numerous EQ options and crossfader adjustment with their renowned KAOSS Pad interface to create a powerful mixing tool for the creative DJ. The possibilty of adding high-end effects directly from the unit creates the...
expand review opportunity for dynamic mixes and unique musical experiences.
FEATURES
The KM-402 is a 4-channel, 24-bit digital mixer that delivers huge headroom and pristine audio quality. The most unique feature of the KM-402 is the onboard Kaoss Pad which features one hundred effects (including many tap tempo BPM effects) accessible with a swipe of your finger to add unlimited creativity to your DJ sets. It is easily accesible and placed in the center of the mixer with a KAOSS button on each channel for quick, independent control of effects and FX Release function which allows reverb and delay tails to smoothly decay through preset and effect changes.
DJs will also appreciate the programmable crossfader which allows you to adjust the response and curve to suit your style, and the six independent types of EQ (from powerful high-pass filters, to unique "Hyped" and "Isolator" EQ curves; plus every channel has a dedicated three-band EQ [Hi/Mid/Low] that responds in different ways according to the EQ curve) that deliver great flexibility to shape your mix and sounds.
OUR OPINION
With the huge success of the KAOSS Pads, it's no surprise Korg made the next logical step and created a high-end mixer with the KAOSS technology built in. They nailed everything creative DJs might want (especially advanced crossfader, 4-channels and EQ options) with a decent price tag. -mgmnt
This is a variation of Numark's entry level DXM01 mixer equipped with a powerful digital effects unit. The basic functions and construction are basically identical to DXM01with 24 bit digital sound, 3 band eq with kill switches, and a digital crossfader. Otherwise...
expand review the main reason to consider this mixer is the effects unit. It features 12 effects with BPM tap control (allows you to synch the effects to any song). Additional effects controls include wet/dry control (controls intensity of effect), and an illuminated effects selector. For basic additional info please refer to the DXM01 review.
The effects are split up into channel effects and mic/aux effects. The six channel effects are 2x copy (doubler), tape echo, echo, flanger, phaser, and filter. The six mic/aux effects are vocoder, tape echo, echo, reverb 1, reverb 2, and limit+distort. -the mgmnt
The DXM09 is Numark's mid-level 3 channel mixer with built in effects. Like Numark's higher priced mixers, the DXM09 features 100% digital circuitry which provides the lowest noise (audio hum and static) possible. Built-in look-ahead peak limiting also prevents clipping and ensures...
expand review the cleanest output signal at all times.
The on-board effects gives you the ability to effect individual channels or the master output with 12 different effects. Personalize those effects with tap button (establishes the timing of the effect), beat sync, and mix intensity (wet/dry). The DXM09 is also equipped with a premium crossfader with curve control, and strong 3 band channel EQs with kill switches. RCA and balanced 1/4" outputs are also a big plus.
3 channel mixer with effects is a rare, but very useful configuration for mixers. The 3 channels allows for input flexibility, and the effects are just plain fun. Include the 100% digital circuitry and excellent price point, and the DXM09 is in a class by itself. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
Numark has retooled its popular PPD-01 mixer for the hip-hop/scratch dj. They've stripped away the effects and installed new long-life digital conductive polymer faders (CP-PRO). The DXMPro is also 100% digital, processing high quality 24-bit digital sound with no hiss or added...
expand review noise. The DXM features useful digital features like infinity-kill 3 band EQs, balanced outs, digital outs (Optical& Coaxial), and accurate peak meter with the ability to look-ahead on master output to avoid sound clipping.
OUR OPINION
With its sleek design and digital design, the DXM is an excellent choice who want to something other than your traditional hip-hop mixer. At this price range, it favors comparably to similar Vestax and Rane models.
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,...
expand review 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. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The M.304 is a 3 channel, SST series mixer. It features a Penny & Giles crossfader and impressive specs across the board. The channels EQs are particularly impressive with frequency kill abilities. In addition to the 3 phono line inputs, there are...
expand review also 6 line inputs, for a total of 9 possible inputs. The M.304 also features an effects loop for all channels, EQ kill switches (low, mid, high) assignable to each crossfader position, balanced 1/4" outputs, and mic input with 3 band EQ.
The M.304 is a part of the Stanton SST (Superior Sound Technology) series. SST mixers are newly engineered models that feature ultra low-noise, zero bleed, and better overall sound (via high dynamic range, low distortion). The SST series has been designed using only the highest quality components for longer life and more reliable performance. Click here for a further breakdown of the SST benefits. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
Revamped with new slick black faceplate. The SA-5 is official mixer of the Allies' Allstar Beatdown. It has been re-engineered especially with the hip-hop/battle dj in mind. It is the first mixer of this kind not to use a single rotary control,...
expand review it uses faders and switches for all controls, and utilises a very clean layout. The quality and construction is similar to the rest of the SA series, and uses Penny & Giles faders for both the crossfader and channel faders.
The main features include: optical line switches, 3 band EQ with complete kills, 2 headphone outputs, 1/4" outputs, program reverse, and headphone master preview. The SA-5 also boasts improved sound with low noise, low crosstalk, and low distortion. -mgmnt
OVERVIEW
Vestax has brought back this classic line of affordable club / installation dj mixers, highlighted by the loaded DSM-420. The main draw here is a pot of old school trigger effects- these things are pretty badass, and the same ones used in...
expand review the old Numark effects mixers that everybody used to have! You also get a massive amount of input options (8 lines, 3 phono, 2 mics), seven band EQ's on both channels and much more. While it's not the most advanced in terms of fader technology, this is a really fun mixer that will satisfy the needs all non-scratch dj's.
FEATURES
As stated, the big news with this mixer is the return of classic button-triggered effects. You get the standard machine gun, ambulance, and police siren, plus the more mysterious bulldozer, power wave and sonic blaster, all of which sound exactly like they did 15 years ago. These effects can all be controlled with sound level and speed knobs. The sounds are basically a 6 second sample that restarts every time you hit the button (so you can have it on police siren and jam the button real fast for "wo-woo-woo-woo-wooop!" noises). Best to use in conjunction with the level knob, and it's really really fun to just have those effects right on the mixer. There's also an internal "echo" effect with controls for level, time, and repeat, but it honestly doesn't do that much in terms of straight "echo." When you have the levels on "full," it's more like a reverb distortion, but it can still be pretty cool when used properly.
Other cool features here include the full 7 band equalizer, with each slider going from –12db to +12db. Dropping the first three sliders pretty much kills the bass, and the additional eq's let you really fine tune the sound of the record. The crossfader is pretty much like your standard mid-90s fader, there's no curve adjustment and the feeling is a bit rough, but they are Vestax VMC faders, which have a fairly quick cut in time and should last longer than your standard entry level stuff. Bottom line is that you can cut with this mixer- and it will sound good- but strictly the basics, and if you're really concerned about scratching, you're looking at the wrong mixer.
The selection of inputs is massive. The DSM-420 features four separate channels, all with their own volume fader and up to three different ins (usually 2 lines / 1 phono). There are 2 mic inputs (XLR on mixer face, ¼" in the back), and each of these has volume control with a 2 band EQ included for mic 1. They also have a talkover switch for easy announcements, wheel ups and such. For outputs, you have standard RCA outs for master, booth (with level control on the mixer face), and record. There are also balanced ¼" outs for the master.
OUR OPINION
This mixer is perfect for people who like to play records, have fun, and blast the crowd with silly sound effects like "bull dozer." With those triggers, the echo effect, and the mic talk over, this thing is highly recommended for reggae + dancehall dj's. In this price range, you will usually be buying a substandard mixer disguised as something flashier, but the DSM series isn't afraid to lay it all on the line. No excuses or coverups- these are not high performance machines- but they are a great set of inexpensive mixers with solid old school performance and looks. Quite a lot of fun. -the mgmnt
REBATE: Purchase this mixer from now till November 30, 2008 and get $50 back from Vestax. download rebate form
OVERVIEW
The Vestax PMC05 Pro is one of the best selling mixers of all time. It has gained an outstanding reputation as the primary...
expand review choice for a basic, solid mixer. The design has barely changed over the last 10 years since it was introduced, mostly because nothing needed to be changed with this simple, but effective design (the 2 changes during this time were addition of Hamster switch and improved PCV faders). However, with stiffer competition in the mixer market it is about time the PMC05 got a re-design. This latest model is a welcome extension of the PMC05 series, keeping the feel and setup of the original intact, while adding several excellent new features.
FEATURES
The new features of the PMC05Pro-III include:
• stronger EQs (high +/-12, low +12/-24)
• effects send/receive and effects intensity controls for both channels
• headphone controls moved to clear up fader area
• headphone master preview switch
• re-designed rotary knobs and line switches
• silver faceplate
These new features truly bring the PMC05 "up to date." The only additional feature we would have liked to see is the inclusion of a mid-channel EQ, but Vestax probably wanted to keep that feature exclusive to the higher priced PMC07 model. The stronger EQs almost make up for this though with quality -24db bass kills.
With DJs incorporating more external effects, the effects send/receive is a much welcomed addition to the PMC05. Effects can be assigned to either channel or both simultaneously. In addition, you can control the intensity of the effects with 2 knob controls.
This version has retained all the main features of the 05 line, including the high quality PCV faders (3rd Generation) for all 3 fader positions, separate mic channel with 2 band EQ and pan, crossfader reverse switch, and crossfader curve adjustment. However, the most important carry-over feature is the overall layout and feel of the mixer. The controls are laid out comfortably with seemingly perfect spacing. The faders, although not optical, provide a comfortable glide with just enough tension. Although these judgments are very subjective, it is no coincidence that the PMC05 is the most copied mixer on the market.
OUR OPINION
The latest version of PMC05Pro is an easy choice for anyone buying a mixer. It offers all the necessary features for beginner to advanced levels at a reasonable price. Vestax is known for their quality construction, so out-of-the-box problems will be rare to none. When parts do wear out (a natural effect), replacements are very easy to buy and install. This is a no gimmicks pick. The only visible weakness is the lack of a mid-channel EQ (which is balanced by the improved EQs), and some advanced users may prefer the warmer sound of Rane when playing on a loud system. But don't let this dissuade you, the PMC05 Pro is as solid as it gets. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The legendary 05 Pro has evolved once again to keep up with the changing needs of DJs. In addition to the proven functionality and effective layout of the 05 Pro III VCA, the updated DX model includes additional input/output connections that work...
expand review with DJ software (like Serato) via audio interface and makes setup and switchover much easier. An optional USB connection is also available for this mixer.
FEATURES
The 05ProIII DX features the exact same main control section as the 05ProIII VCA, the only difference is the addition of the "DX mode" connection that makes it possible to connect your digital DJing software to the mixer without taking up your standard rear connections. This also makes it possible to easily switch setups at the club without stopping the sound by switching the PGM DX switch one by one. Also added is the ability to connect the optional USB connection (TUB-1) for instant digital connection from your mixer to your computer. Otherwise, the mixer still has the same proven functionality and effective layout as the previous version of the 05 Pro (the 05 Pro III VCA) including:
- stronger EQs (high +/-12, low +12/-24)
- effects send/receive and effects intensity controls for both channels
- headphone controls moved to clear up fader area
- headphone master preview switch
- re-designed rotary knobs and line switches
- sleek silver faceplate and black checkerboard EQ surface
It also retains all the main features of the 05 line, including the high quality PCV faders for all 3 fader positions, separate mic channel with 2 band EQ and pan, crossfader reverse switch, and crossfader curve adjustment. However, the most important carry-over feature is the overall layout and feel of the mixer. The controls are laid out comfortably with seemingly perfect spacing. The faders, although not optical, provide a comfortable glide with just enough tension. Although these judgments are very subjective, it is no coincidence that the PMC05 is the most copied mixer on the market.
OUR OPINION
Vestax has a great thing going with the 05Pro series and they just keep making it better. It is an easy pick for anyone looking for a quality mixer. Now with the addition of the DX mode and optional USB connectivity, Vestax has made the 05Pro a very attractive mixer to the new generation of digital DJs without compromising the features that have made the mixer so legendary. The only visible weakness is the lack of a mid-channel EQ (which is balanced by the improved EQs), and some advanced users may prefer the warmer sound of Rane when playing on a loud system. Other than this, the 05 is a very solid mixer. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
Vestax's 06-Pro is a proven 2-channel mixer with a slim profile and high quality VCA crossfader and components. The 06-Pro has been a Vestax bestseller for over 10 years because of its price, profile, and straight-forwardness.
FEATURES
The 06-Pro is a basic 2-channel (2...
expand review phono + 2 line inputs) mixer designed with the active DJ in mind (scratch + mixing). It features a very slim design (designed by Shortkut of ISP) to bring the distance between your tables to a minimum. This is especially helpful for trick mixing and juggling. It features a replaceable CF-PCV crossfader with curve control, which is the same high quality fader used in higher priced models. It was also the first mixer to introduce the innovative "hamster switch" that allows you to reverse the channel inputs to suit your scratch preference. Basic features include a 2-band EQ as well as gain and pan on each channel as well as replaceable volume faders and multi-directional input (transformer) switch. There is no mic input.
OUR OPINION
If you're looking to purchase a quality dj mixer on a budget, you can't get much better than the 06 in terms of reliability and value. The lack of a mic channel and mid-channel EQ would be the only minuses, but its over quality, unique design and clean layout more than make up for those. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The PMC-280 is Vestax's high-end 4 channel mixer loaded with many input options, numerous digital effects, the infamous CF-PCV crossfader for quick adjustable cuts, and digital connectivity via optional USB board (not included).
FEATURES
The PMC-280 features 4 channels with 10 total inputs (6...
expand review line, 2 phono, 2 mic) and 2 indiviually controlled stereo outs to suit all your mixing needs. Each channel is also equipped with a powerful 3-band isolator for mixing and production purposes. The mixer also features the popular CF-PCV crossfader (the same adjustable crossfader used in the 05PRO and others) for quick scratching and cutting and longer channel faders for smooth smooth up fader action.
The most unique feature on this mixer is the professional DSP effects unit. The unit features 24bit 96kHz sampling rate for the highest quality sound warping. Effects include ring modulator, vocoder, digital delay, echo, reverb, flanger, auto pan, phaser, pitch shifter, vocal canceller, low pass filters, band pass filters, hi pass filters, with 2 parameters for each effect adjustable via rotary knobs. Not only would these effects come in handy for mixing or battling, but they can also be incredibly useful for production purposes as well.
There is also an optional USB board (not included) that can provide digital connectivity for the PMC-280 to your computer.
OPINION
Vestax has recently discontinued their VMC-185XL (which was the 4-channel mixer we used to carry). The PMC-280 has everything the VMC-185XL had and improves upon it greatly in terms of features and performance at a very reasonable price point. The effects unit alone is well worth the price of admission, but add a quality crossfader, numerous input options and the option for digital connectivity and you've got a unique and powerful mixer that can be utilized by any style of DJ and even producers. -snackmaster
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,...
expand review 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. -the mgmnt
indepth
