Need help deciding between 2 mixers : Ecler Nuo 3.0 or AH Xone42
Need help deciding between 2 mixers : Ecler Nuo 3.0 or AH Xone42 Posted on: 29.12.2012 by Colin Tuozzo Hi all,I am ditching my Pio DJM800 next week as I have transitioned recently from CDJ's into Traktor/Maschine/Controller space and I am not happy with sound quality I am currently getting. I've tried everything (swapping audio interface,cables,settings,etc) but DJM800 just sound too digital,harsh and soulless and I am at the point where I can't stand it any longer. I have tried and used many different brands and models and shortlisted just two which really appeal to me but the problem is that I didn't had a chance to properly test these two mixers yet, due to distributors not having any stock/demo unit in SA. Basically I will be ordering one of these from overseas and this is the main reason why I need some help to make my decision. I used to have AH Xone 32 at the time and was happy with mixer (except dumb gains on the back) and also had a chance to play once on previous generation of Nuo (3) but since it was in 2007, I can't really remember much about Nuo except that I believe overall impression was good. Basically these are the reasons why I am still undecided : Nuo 3.0 - Big fat knobs they are really looking massive from pictures/videos and I am not sure how these compare to all other mixers. Honestly I am used to Pio/AH knobs size and it seems this might be issue for me. - Knobs on the front of the mixer this might be a evening mare for transport as knobs might break in the case/bag AH Xone 42 - It is bigger and heavier then NUO which makes it slightly less mobile - Made in China from 2006/2007 and I just can't get over about this as Xone 32 I had was a silver UK version and it was built like tank. Also noticed that some users are posting you tube videos and photos regard manufacturing faults which really makes this mixer look bad in my eyes. It would be great if any Nuo 3.0/Xone 42 users can share they experience/views here as that will definitely help me making my decision. Thanks in advance. | |
| Colin Tuozzo 01.08.2013 |
Originally Posted by zimfella
No major complaints at all, I can only say good things about Ecler Nuo 3.0. Top sound quality, EQ's are also fine (you'll get used to mids quickly), not so heavy (easier to transport) and overall ergonomics and feel of the mixer are really decent. My only minor grip are plasticky knobs (some of them a bit wobbly) but otherwise then that highly recommended. I am sure you'll be fine with its (Nuo 2.0) baby brother... |
| Farah Angeloni 31.07.2013 |
Originally Posted by zimfella
One time i really had an eye on the A&H 42 but just didn't had the money. Than i thought about the Ecle Nuo 3.0. Than a friend told me that the 2.0 even has three channels.2 Full(i use for DJaying) 1 half(only highs and lows,here comes my audio from my producing setup.) Honestly! I can't imagine to give away my 2.0. It looks great! It feels great! It sounds great! It's just a hell of a mixer! You can read a lot great things about it and i'm telling you:It's all true. |
| Colin Tuozzo 01.01.2013 | Well, I've already made my decision and placed order for Nuo 3.0 with local Ecler distributor but unfortunately I'll get my hands on it only after 10th of Jan as they are currently closed (as well as their major warehouse) during the holiday period. However they were quite nice to borrow me this baby to use it until I get my Nuo : 2012-12-31_12-23-51_529.jpg2012-12-31_12-25-17_191.jpg2012-12-31_12-25-57_136.jpg2012-12-31_12-26-05_556.jpg I am not into scratching at all but this Ecler mixer really looks promising for anyone who's into that kind of thing. Didn't had time to check HAK380 properly yet as I had busy period around new years eve but what I could notice is that sound quality is really great... |
| Colin Tuozzo 31.12.2012 |
Originally Posted by djfunke
Originally Posted by diezdiazgiant
By the way as being ex DJ Forums member (it is nowhere close what it used to be before) seems that we have very lively community here which is really great |
| Colin Tuozzo 31.12.2012 |
Originally Posted by bumtsch
It is actually shocking in general, how much more expensive is industry/club standard DJ gear now days then lets say 10/15 years ago. When I got my first Tech's 1210's and DJM 600 waaaaay back it cost me approximately 500eu per deck (1210) + 800eu for DJM 600. Compare that to present day club\industry standard gear and it looks something like this - CDJ2000NXS about 1600eu per deck + one of these mixers - PIO DJM2000 about 1900eu or A&H DB4 about same price or DJM900NXS for 1600eu. In general overall price has doubled (tripled) compared to price of what used to be top DJ gear in past. That's is just ridiculous especially considering all technological advances and whole analog-> digital evolution. Also for example if I compare the price I paid for Xone 32 years back (2005) which I bought brand new in UK the price is still similar however the country of manufacture has changed from UK to China. If I put excuse of world economic issues on side, in my opinion A & H is making much more profit now then it used to make previously and probably same goes for Pioneer with exception that Pioneer gear is still manufactured at more-less same country/factory. Okay, let me stop the rant and get back to the subject. Even though Ecler DJ division seems pretty quiet (dead) at the moment I had a good chat to their distributors here and also my best friend is living in the Canary Islands and knowing that he often spends time in Barcelona, I asked him to help me by investigating all the rumors and situation about Ecler DJ division . What we found out that is that Ecler DJ division is still not out of the business (at least not officially) their current lines of DJ mixers are still being produced as well as spare parts and they've just decided to shorten their staff,partially drop support and focus to more profitable area (installations,PA's,speakers,etc) due to very bad hit Spain economy took in recent EU/World financial crisis.I assume they will keep on their DJ division alive as long as people are still buying their DJ gear or who knows maybe they will join forces with some other manufacturer or even try to develop some new products and seriously compete with others again... |
| Colin Tuozzo 30.12.2012 |
Originally Posted by bumtsch
This is exactly what I was looking for. Thanks so much for sharing your experience bumtsch. |
| Colin Tuozzo 29.12.2012 |
Originally Posted by TCMuc
Reason why I didn't post what I like about those two mixers and focused on (imo) their weak points is because I already did detailed research regard their strong points and I don't have any objections there.I am fully aware on what both mixers have to offer but on the other hand I never used them myself and how things are looking now (no distributor or dealers in SA have any stock or they will soon) I will need to get one shipped from overseas without testing it first. Also one of the reasons why I choose these two from the bunch of other mixers I used to have and work with in the past (Denon 1100,1600,1700, Urei 1601, Rane, Vestax, AH Xone 32/92, almost all top Pioneer models,etc) is they seem to have everything I need right now and they are also fairly priced in my eyes and not overpriced like some other mixers. I never had much experience with Ecler and I always heard only good things about them, while on the other hand I kind of more-less know what I can expect from Xone 42 as previously mentioned I used to have silver Xone 32 (UK made). So if someone has used both or any of mentioned mixers and has some experience to share,that would really be great as it will definitely help me making my final decision. |
| Colin Tuozzo 29.12.2012 | Hi all, I am ditching my Pio DJM800 next week as I have transitioned recently from CDJ's into Traktor/Maschine/Controller space and I am not happy with sound quality I am currently getting. I've tried everything (swapping audio interface,cables,settings,etc) but DJM800 just sound too digital,harsh and soulless and I am at the point where I can't stand it any longer. I have tried and used many different brands and models and shortlisted just two which really appeal to me but the problem is that I didn't had a chance to properly test these two mixers yet, due to distributors not having any stock/demo unit in SA. Basically I will be ordering one of these from overseas and this is the main reason why I need some help to make my decision. I used to have AH Xone 32 at the time and was happy with mixer (except dumb gains on the back) and also had a chance to play once on previous generation of Nuo (3) but since it was in 2007, I can't really remember much about Nuo except that I believe overall impression was good. Basically these are the reasons why I am still undecided : Nuo 3.0 - Big fat knobs they are really looking massive from pictures/videos and I am not sure how these compare to all other mixers. Honestly I am used to Pio/AH knobs size and it seems this might be issue for me. - Knobs on the front of the mixer this might be a evening mare for transport as knobs might break in the case/bag AH Xone 42 - It is bigger and heavier then NUO which makes it slightly less mobile - Made in China from 2006/2007 and I just can't get over about this as Xone 32 I had was a silver UK version and it was built like tank. Also noticed that some users are posting you tube videos and photos regard manufacturing faults which really makes this mixer look bad in my eyes. It would be great if any Nuo 3.0/Xone 42 users can share they experience/views here as that will definitely help me making my decision. Thanks in advance. |
| Hanna Ridenbaugh 02.08.2013 | Thanks, I've since purchased a nuo 2.0. I've never even seen an ecler mixer in the flesh. But just keep reading good stuff about ecler. Once I get something in my head RGAS kicks in majorly. Also after owning a xone 62 I have not come across a mixer to match its sound quality. Hopefully the ecler stand true to its claim. |
| Colin Tuozzo 01.08.2013 |
Originally Posted by zimfella
No major complaints at all, I can only say good things about Ecler Nuo 3.0. Top sound quality, EQ's are also fine (you'll get used to mids quickly), not so heavy (easier to transport) and overall ergonomics and feel of the mixer are really decent. My only minor grip are plasticky knobs (some of them a bit wobbly) but otherwise then that highly recommended. I am sure you'll be fine with its (Nuo 2.0) baby brother... |
| Ninfa Mazariegos 31.07.2013 | If you use traktor, there is an eq setting that mimics the ecler's eq. |
| Lory Talada 31.07.2013 | Great mixer, in Spain are sold very well and are reputed to be extremely robust with a great sound for their price. |
| Hanna Ridenbaugh 31.07.2013 | Thanks, just what I needed to hear. What about the mid eq, easy to get the hang of it? |
| Farah Angeloni 31.07.2013 |
Originally Posted by zimfella
One time i really had an eye on the A&H 42 but just didn't had the money. Than i thought about the Ecle Nuo 3.0. Than a friend told me that the 2.0 even has three channels.2 Full(i use for DJaying) 1 half(only highs and lows,here comes my audio from my producing setup.) Honestly! I can't imagine to give away my 2.0. It looks great! It feels great! It sounds great! It's just a hell of a mixer! You can read a lot great things about it and i'm telling you:It's all true. |
| Hanna Ridenbaugh 01.08.2013 | How you getting on with the ecler? I'm considering getting the 2.0. |
| Colin Tuozzo 12.01.2013 | Nuo 3.0 finally arrived yesterday and I must say I am very impressed. Great design and build quality,fantastic sound (imho on par with A&H) and what is most important those fat EQ knobs are really great I was really surprised that they are actually much smaller then I was expecting they will be. Website and catalog pictures are actually deceiving as mixer looks much much better once in front of you. I believe Ecler needs to learn from Pioneer on how to make pretty and flashy pictures in Photoshop Only thing I don't really like so far is that master out seems to be a bit on quieter side (not so loud as Pioneer for example) as it is coming factory limited to 0db and it might be a problem in some clubs. Luckily this can be fixed by modifying internal jumpers which will boost another +6DB but only pain is that mixer front plate needs to be opened and all knobs/fader caps removed first. Anyway here are few photos taken yesterday: |
| Colin Tuozzo 01.01.2013 | Well, I've already made my decision and placed order for Nuo 3.0 with local Ecler distributor but unfortunately I'll get my hands on it only after 10th of Jan as they are currently closed (as well as their major warehouse) during the holiday period. However they were quite nice to borrow me this baby to use it until I get my Nuo : 2012-12-31_12-23-51_529.jpg2012-12-31_12-25-17_191.jpg2012-12-31_12-25-57_136.jpg2012-12-31_12-26-05_556.jpg I am not into scratching at all but this Ecler mixer really looks promising for anyone who's into that kind of thing. Didn't had time to check HAK380 properly yet as I had busy period around new years eve but what I could notice is that sound quality is really great... |
| Delila Vandommelen 01.01.2013 | Great news regarding Ecler! And for sure their no frills (read "no fx") 2/3/4 channel mixers are VERY competitively priced considering the build and sound quality. If I can be arsed with reselling my 42 I might even trade with a nuo... |
| Colin Tuozzo 31.12.2012 |
Originally Posted by djfunke
Originally Posted by diezdiazgiant
By the way as being ex DJ Forums member (it is nowhere close what it used to be before) seems that we have very lively community here which is really great |
| Colin Tuozzo 31.12.2012 |
Originally Posted by bumtsch
It is actually shocking in general, how much more expensive is industry/club standard DJ gear now days then lets say 10/15 years ago. When I got my first Tech's 1210's and DJM 600 waaaaay back it cost me approximately 500eu per deck (1210) + 800eu for DJM 600. Compare that to present day club\industry standard gear and it looks something like this - CDJ2000NXS about 1600eu per deck + one of these mixers - PIO DJM2000 about 1900eu or A&H DB4 about same price or DJM900NXS for 1600eu. In general overall price has doubled (tripled) compared to price of what used to be top DJ gear in past. That's is just ridiculous especially considering all technological advances and whole analog-> digital evolution. Also for example if I compare the price I paid for Xone 32 years back (2005) which I bought brand new in UK the price is still similar however the country of manufacture has changed from UK to China. If I put excuse of world economic issues on side, in my opinion A & H is making much more profit now then it used to make previously and probably same goes for Pioneer with exception that Pioneer gear is still manufactured at more-less same country/factory. Okay, let me stop the rant and get back to the subject. Even though Ecler DJ division seems pretty quiet (dead) at the moment I had a good chat to their distributors here and also my best friend is living in the Canary Islands and knowing that he often spends time in Barcelona, I asked him to help me by investigating all the rumors and situation about Ecler DJ division . What we found out that is that Ecler DJ division is still not out of the business (at least not officially) their current lines of DJ mixers are still being produced as well as spare parts and they've just decided to shorten their staff,partially drop support and focus to more profitable area (installations,PA's,speakers,etc) due to very bad hit Spain economy took in recent EU/World financial crisis.I assume they will keep on their DJ division alive as long as people are still buying their DJ gear or who knows maybe they will join forces with some other manufacturer or even try to develop some new products and seriously compete with others again... |
| Rebbecca Fennell 30.12.2012 | Eclers are great - fat knobs, and warm eq. I believe you'll like the eq frequency roll off in comparison to the pioneer. |
| Ninfa Mazariegos 30.12.2012 | I saw a dj just last week max a nuo waaaaay into the red and the distortion wasn't noticeable. |
| Delila Vandommelen 30.12.2012 | You're welcome. One thing I forgot to add if you're concerned about build quality - it seems Ecler's DJ division has been almost brain dead for about a couple years, so I have no idea how you'd go about having a repair done should the need arise. In the meantime, A&H isn't going anywhere... |
| Colin Tuozzo 30.12.2012 |
Originally Posted by bumtsch
This is exactly what I was looking for. Thanks so much for sharing your experience bumtsch. |
| Delila Vandommelen 30.12.2012 | I've had my 42 for a year and a half and have played out on Nuo 3.0's several times. I play vinyl/timecode, with 3rd/4th decks usage getting scarcer and scarcer... so take my comments with a grain of salt. No complaints about the build quality on either (and my Xone seems to be of chinese descent...) Really enjoyed the EQs and faders on the Nuo, both in sound quality and physical feel. For me it's a tossup between the very playable knobs on the Ecler and the firm yet smooth travel+center detent and soft touch of the Xone knobs. I have small hands and I'm not bothered by Ecler's choice. In fact the mixer controls are quite workable, while things may feel slightly oddly spaced on the 42 (and a bit too close together on a 92). Loving the feel of the 42 and of course the FILTER which is so much better than Traktor's built-in 92 filter (and obviously, works when I play straight vinyl). Big bonus on the Nuo for adjustable line fader curve and extra xfader controls (even though I don't scratch). Booh at the headphone jack location (well, it was in a flight case most of the time, so my straight headphone plug made things annoying). Kudos to Ecler for having a proper send/return loop, I find the 42's worthless at this due to it being a single knob... Not sure how hard you can drive the Ecler before it distorts noticeably. (Even though we like to pretend we're cool and only mix in the green, sometimes it's not feasible at gigs !) --Phono section largely irrelevant to you but here goes nonetheless-- More points for Ecler with the three phono preamps. Annoyed at the 42's only two phonos and their positioning on channels 1/4. I don't (yet) play three vinyl decks at home, but I enjoy having my two main channels next to each other... My cartridges are basic Ortofons without too much output power and I'm struggling to compensate for the low volume on some records with the 42's phono gain staging. Same issue playing out on 92s, not so much on DJMs and on the Ecler. --end phono part-- Basically if I were in the market for a new mixer now I'd seriously consider the Ecler if I wasn't so hooked on the A&H filter. |
| Colin Tuozzo 29.12.2012 |
Originally Posted by TCMuc
Reason why I didn't post what I like about those two mixers and focused on (imo) their weak points is because I already did detailed research regard their strong points and I don't have any objections there.I am fully aware on what both mixers have to offer but on the other hand I never used them myself and how things are looking now (no distributor or dealers in SA have any stock or they will soon) I will need to get one shipped from overseas without testing it first. Also one of the reasons why I choose these two from the bunch of other mixers I used to have and work with in the past (Denon 1100,1600,1700, Urei 1601, Rane, Vestax, AH Xone 32/92, almost all top Pioneer models,etc) is they seem to have everything I need right now and they are also fairly priced in my eyes and not overpriced like some other mixers. I never had much experience with Ecler and I always heard only good things about them, while on the other hand I kind of more-less know what I can expect from Xone 42 as previously mentioned I used to have silver Xone 32 (UK made). So if someone has used both or any of mentioned mixers and has some experience to share,that would really be great as it will definitely help me making my final decision. |
| Nikole Resende 29.12.2012 | Would be helpfull if you told us why you decided for these two mixers in the first place, so we know what's important to you... So far you've only posted what you don't like, which kind of makes me wonder why you want them and not anything else... |
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