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.
OVERVIEW
Entry level mixer from world renowned Allen & Heath. Many of the same features of the bigger brothers are found on this mixer. High quality sound, a great filter with LFO control and tap tempo, and that rich, undistorted sound A&H is...
expand review known for. Great 3-band EQ on every channel, effects send / receive, 1/4" outputs for booth and mix, and RCA record outs. -minimal man
OVERVIEW
The Xone:3D is Allen & Heath's high-end digital and traditional mixer hybrid with built in interface and USB MIDI Control. It works as:
1) a fully functional mixer with most of the same features as their world-class Xone series mixers.
2) an 8...
expand review channel USB interface with 24/48 kHz professional quality sound, and
3) a MIDI controller, where most every control can be assigned a MIDI function. can be used with programs such as Traktor and Ableton.
This is an incredibly advanced mixer that will suit the needs of the most cutting edge DJs and producers. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The one that put Allen & Heath on the DJ mixer map! Powerhouse mixer for club, house and techno use. Six channels (2 mic, 4 line / phono), four band EQ, filter controls, XLR main outputs, 1/4" booth and auxiliary outputs, RCA...
expand review record output, unbelievable sound quality and longevity, and an internal power supply. Quickly becoming the norm in any major club for its powerful sound-shaping controls and incredible warmth, anyone serious about sound, or those that need a variety of inputs and flexibility, you should not look much further than this mixer. -minimal man
OVERVIEW
Big brother to the Xone 62, this is for those who require the ultimate control PLUS want MIDI capabilities. All the features of the Xone 62, with added dual VCF filter controls, dual LFO with tap tempo, and six MIDI controllable knobs....
expand review Quickly becoming the norm in any major club for its powerful sound-shaping controls and incredible warmth, anyone serious about sound, or those that need a variety of inputs and flexibility, you should not look much further than this mixer. -minimal man
OVERVIEW
An updated version of Ecler's successful HAK 320, this mixer improves upon it in one major way: a brand new long-life magnetic crossfader with the sharpest cut-in time we've ever seen. Noy only does It have the sharpest curve, it also has...
expand review the smoothest feel of any magnetic fader we've tested. We'd place it somewhere in between the tighter Rane 56 fader and the extrememly loose Stanton Focus Fader.
1) The crossfader is near incredible. First of all, it operates on a no-contacts magnetic basis, similar to the fader used in Rane's TTM 56, and should last much longer than any VCA fader like the ones found in Vestax mixers. It also has a unique feature, a micro-control curve adjustment in addition to the regular curve adjustment control, which allows you to adjust the fader's cut-in time down to almost nothing. Just nudge it and both channels are on. This is only an option: full curve fade for mixing is still available. Plus the crossfader has a full warranty for 5 years (save money).
2) Like the HAK 320, the 360 offers a functional set of features for hip hop and battle deejays including a session input with level control, strong 3 channel eqs, mic input and assignable external effects for both channels.
Verdict: Pluses
Quality, feel, and warranty of the crossfader. We have yet to have any problems with any of the Ecler mixers we've sold. Clean layout and high-end features (3 band eq and effects processors).
Verdict: Minuses
The only thing holding the Ecler back is it's lack of a household name. The price may seem a bit steep, but this could easily be recouped by not having to buy a new fader for the next 5 years. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The latest evolution in the Ecler's HAK series, the 380 features many advancements from the successful 360 model. Featuring the latest generation of the ETERNAL fader (improved precision, sharper cut), The new "Scratch Cue Mode" which allows you to preview your cuts...
expand review in the headphone before rocking out loud, double crossfader shape adjustment and cut adjustment, advanced dry/wet FX adjustments, and improvements all around the board make the 380 a top notch scratch mixer. -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
Updated version of Ecler's NUO4 4-channel mixer. Unlike the previous version, the Nuo4.0 does NOT feature MIDI control capabilities. It does however feature upgraded electronics and analog components in order to provide the highest performance and sound capabilities. The Nuo4.0 features professional...
expand review EQ, FX, and crossfader functions making it a perfect mixer for all styles - in the home studio or club installation.
FEATURES
The NUO4.0 features a total of 4 mixing channels, 2 balanced XLR mic inputs, 4 phono/4 line inputs, a balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA master out and unbalanced RCA booth out (perfect for monitoring in 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 per channel borrowed from the EVO5.
OVERVIEW
The NUO4.0 is a robust, versatile, pro mixer suitable for all styles of DJing. Though Ecler got rid of the MIDI capabilities, they have really focused on upgrading the sound quality and bringing the price down. You still get full featured faders and the impeccable EQ's that Ecler is famous for. This 4-channel model is perfect for DJ setups with a pair of turntables and a pair of CD players as well as studio or club installations. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The NU04 stands apart in the mixer market because it includes MIDI control capabilities. In addition to all the traditional mixing features, MIDI control allows you to control external MIDI devices, as well as allowing DJs to integrate software such as Ableton...
expand review Live and Traktor into their sets. Computer-based djing is no longer confined to keyboard and mouse with the NU04.
The NUO4 includes Control Lab 4 software which allows you to program all controls to your choice. MIDI programmable controllers include 4 rotary and push encoders, 4 switches, a 3 position layout and an A/B bank selector. All your presets can be saved and load into the mixer, allowing the deejay to adapt the MIDI control panel to each specific application.
In addition to its MIDI-control capabilities, you can not overlook that the NUO4 is a high quality DJ mixer. It includes most of the features that made the NUO series an immediate success including: superior sound quality, high quality components, frequency kill EQs, high quality fader with cut-in adjustment, XLR and RCA outputs, and much more. -mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The flagship model of Ecler's Nuo line. The Nuo5 was created to meet the increasingly demands of professionals who need a robust mixer capable of club, studio & scratch use. The Nuo5 handles those needs with great sound quality, 5 channels each...
expand review with a powerful 3 band eq, the same award-winning crossfader as their HAK 360 mixer, plus a wide range of internal effects with a processor which is user programmable through the included Edi:Lab software. For studio & live use, the outputs include RCA, XLR, Midi and USB connections. It also features a unique internal power supply which allows for voltage input ranging from 90-260V. Quite a well-rounded machine, already receiving much acclaim in Europe. -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
OVERVIEW
The top of the line mixer for straight mixing. We don't recommend these for hip-hop usage because the faders are not designed for rugged use, but this is what all the top mix DJs are using because of its complex 8 second...
expand review sampler, expanded effects, 4 simultaneous channels, the best 3 band EQ controls, and mix friendly features. A bit pricey but you're also getting a sampler, beat counter, and effects pad in this mixer. -mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The DJM-700 is the latest high-end 4-channel mixer from Pioneer, with similar features as its big brother the DJM-800, plus several new ones to set it apart from the rest. Featuring superior sound quality and functionality and cutting edge effects(including the world's...
expand review first Effect Frequency Filter) and MIDI connectivity the DJM-700 is definitely designed to set new standards for working DJs in the club, bar or studio.
FEATURES
The DJM-700 inherits the super clean sound quality of its higher priced brothers, the DJM-800 and DJM-1000. This means top of the line 96kHz/24-bit sound with mixing carried out by 32-bit DSP (Digital Signal Processing).
In addition, there is a myriad of top quality effects at your disposal including delay, echo, transform, filter, flanger, phaser, reverb, robot and crush, 13 beat effects, an enhanced roll sampler (makes tempo-specific manipulation of audio samples easily accessible through real-time sampling using 4-Roll effects: roll, reverse roll, pitch up roll and pitch down roll), AND fully assignable MIDI function with 49 assignable controls. This mixer also features the world's first Effect Frequency filter which allows for ultimate high and low pass filter control affecting any chosen effect meaning you can add an effect to either the music or the effect only, or both simultaneously.
Other functions include a powerful 3 band EQ per channel, fader curve for both crossfader and channel faders, fader start function for CDJs, on board auto or tap BPM counter with digital read out for effects settings + BPM counter, and talk over function. It also features industry-standard size and layout and a dual shield structure that eliminates digital noise.
OUR OPINION
This is obviously a very big and powerful mixer that will appease even the most demanding DJs. With top quality all around, a robust effects package, and MIDI connectivity, the DJM-700 can provide for ultimate freedom and creativity when behind the decks. Basically, if this is mixer is in your budget - go for it (it won't disappoint). Recommended. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The DJM-800 is Pioneer's new flagship 4 channel mixer, improving upon the popular DJM-600 platform with quite a few new features, a totally redesigned 96kHz / 24bit digital mixing bus and a much higher quality construction. The DJM-800 is designed for the...
expand review professional DJ or club installation and includes many input / output options as well as a myriad of onboard effects and Pioneer's latest development, Auto Harmonic Tuning. This function detects the key of the song playing, and automatically corrects it to the closest true key, an especially useful tool for djs who are trying to mix records harmonically. This is a big, robust mixer which gives you total control over your sound. FULL REVIEW COMING SOON. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The DJM-909 Pioneer is the new high end standard for the fully featured 2 channel mixer category. For the 909, Pioneer has taken the 3 most popular features of the DJM600 dance mixer (effects, quality sound, strong EQs), unveiled some revolutionary features...
expand review (tension adjustable optical fader, touch screen), and added a powerful, built-in effects unit. In addition, Pioneer has introduced a new layout and controls, making it user-friendly across the board from house djs to hip-hop djs. This is a truly ground breaking mixer.
The crossfader of the Pioneer features a new exclusive technology that allows you to tighten and loosen the tension of the fader without removing any parts. To make adjustments, just take the included tool, put it in the small hole next to the fader, and turn either way. This way, djs can put the tension at loose for scratching, then switch to a tighter tension for mixing, all on the fly. In addition, you can adjust the fader curve and crossfader cut lag (precise cut-in time control) using the control knobs with the curve displayed on the screen. The actual feel and construction of the crossfader is very solid, comparable to Rane's optical fader in the TTM-56.
Touch Screen Control and Effects Unit
This is a first for any mixer. The touch screen control is used to control the powerful effects unit of the 909. There are 50 different effects with BPM control (synch your effects to a beat), plus several effects that you can assign to the faders (click here for full list of effects). Each channel has 3 memory banks that can each hold up to 3 saved effects, all controllable through the touch screen. You can also adjust several individual aspects of each effect by pressing the FX ADJ button and using the touch screen. Additional effects controls include mix depth (effects intensity) knob, BPM tap buttons, and a spring loaded effects on/off switch with lock option. External effects can be controlled with an effects send/receive with effect depth controls. Any effect can be previewed in headphones by switching to EFFECT preview. The 909 also allows you to plug in a footswitch to control any of the effects.
Quality Sound and Layout
Pioneer mixers are most known for their club quality sound, and their strong, clean EQs. The 909 keeps these qualities intact with high quality sound processing (20hz-20khz response and low noise and distortion rate), powerful 3 band EQ (-26dB to +6dB), and both RCA and XLR outputs. The layout, although it may seem cluttered with features, is actually quite functional. The fader area is very clean, and the controls are laid out very intuitively. Like the DJM600, the feel of the rotary knobs is excellent, loose enough for quick kills, but with a solid feeling at the same time. Pioneer even got smaller details correct, like the mini-fader for cue control, and flash (spring loaded) switches for the effects on/off.
Additional Features
In addition to the revolutionary features mentioned above, the 909 has close to every useful feature we've seen in the mixer market: BPM counter, reinforced headphone jacks, master + channel LED display, mic channel with 2 band EQ, headphone master preview, fader reverse and curve adjustment for all 3 faders, trigger capabilities for Pioneer CDJ CD turntables, EQ on/off switch, session in/out, booth out with separate level, and more.
Our Opinion
This mixer comes at a hefty price tag, built for the consumer that truly wants it all. We can't justify the price or all the features here to every customer, but we can tell you that this mixer has the most features we've seen in one unit, it is well built, sounds great, and is very functional. It is potentially the best two channel mixer available. The effects unit is truly a key feature because it is fully integrated into the mixer and allows much more flexibility and control than using a Kaoss pad. The touch pad seems like overkill, but once you've used it, you'll realize how it makes using effects easier. The crossfader, at initial testing, is excellent in all aspects, however the volume faders feel like PCV rather than optical (the one apparent weakness). In conclusion, this is definitely for the high-end dj with a big budget. We think you'll be ultimately satisfied with the purchase, because the 909 looks and functions like it costs- and that's a good thing. -mgmnt
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...
expand review 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. -mgmnt
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...
expand review 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.
OVERVIEW
The Grandmaster Flash edition of the Empath mixer. Features exclusive brushed gold and black Lexan faceplate, and comes with a Rane mixer case which smartly features room underneath the mixer compartment for cables and headphones. Operating features remain the same as the...
expand review other Empath mixers.
The Empath is 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. -mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The Empath Rotary mixer is the latest version of the popular Empath mixer family from Rane. The only difference is the rotary channel faders. All other features are identical.
Rane's answer to the multi-function dilemma. Their goal here was to create a club...
expand review 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. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
Created to model after the legendary Urei rotary mixers, the Rane MP2016a mixer brings the great sound that rotary mixers of the past were known for into the digital age. The MP2016a is a standalone product that functions like a traditional...
expand review Urei 2016 but with the inclusion of the optional (not included) XP2016a board the MP2016a gets supercharged to include a 3 band EQ for each channel as well as an adjustable contour crossfader.
Other great additions include an effects loop switch, seperate booth and house outputs to be able to monitor either with headphones or in the booth (can be controlled with a switch), and split cueing which was a feature not included in the original MP2016.
Take into account the durability and great sound that Rane mixers provide and you get a rotary mixer that DJs of the past could only dream of. -mgmnt
OVERVIEW
After preliminary testing, it appears that Rane has released another inventive, extremely high quality mixer on to the market. Innovations abound and they've finally fixed some of the problems which other high-end mixers have had. Firstly, the 56 adds a powerful mid-eq
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