Xone: DB4- the official unofficial thread

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Xone: DB4- the official unofficial thread
Posted on: 18.10.2011 by Romelia Stankard
(former thread title Xone: DB4- convince me not to sell off my possessions and drain my bank account)


I mean it's just a mixer, nothing I should sell my S4 and some other expensive possessions for and drain my bank account completely for... right?

I am having a hard time with this decision. I know it won't make me a better DJ, yet it gives me the urge to make irrational spending decisions. Please talk me out of it.
Romelia Stankard
12.04.2012		Just curious, does anyone know of any clubs around the world that have a DB4 installed?
Danae Dumler
11.04.2012
Originally Posted by m00n
Who wants to go in on a hosting acct.. LOL, we will just start a DB4/DB2 community .. haha
nah we want a community here! I don't need yet another community to visit...
Felipe Rasper
11.04.2012
Originally Posted by djproben
what I do need (or just plain want) is buttons that are programmed to interact with the effects on the DB4. I realize a full mapping solution is unlikely since it would require separate software but it would be great if A+H had preprogrammed mappings for the buttons and knobs that give you specific FX combinations and settings at the click of a button. The interface on the mixer is not difficult to navigate, but how cool would it be if you could get to your favorite settings at the click of a button?

Is anyone using the Traktor Bible mappings for use with the DB4? (http://traktorbible.com/freaks/mappi...x?flavour=xone) I will probably start off with one of those but I also plan to have a standalone mapping for using it on the road; simple all-in-one 4-channel mixer assuming you have no other gear.

1. That would be pretty cool and a deal breaker for me.

2. Yes i use it, works good, but a couple of x1's, k2's dn-sc2000's is easier.
Kiyoko Wellisch
11.04.2012		Actually a mixer community would be cool. Doesn't have to be just DB whatever. Maybe also get a Media player/Turntable community , a controller community and then a misc. community
Loreta Altema
10.04.2012		Who wants to go in on a hosting acct.. LOL, we will just start a DB4/DB2 community .. haha
Cliff Lohman
10.04.2012
Originally Posted by djproben
By the way this thread is 77 pages long now for me ... Maybe it's time for an admin to start a separate community for digital mixers? This thread is way too cumbersome to search through and it would be great to have a specific discussion community focused just on mixers like the DB4.
I was believeing the same.. Theres like 15 or 20 seperate topics or issues in here that i can never find..
Danae Dumler
10.04.2012		By the way this thread is 77 pages long now for me ... Maybe it's time for an admin to start a separate community for digital mixers? This thread is way too cumbersome to search through and it would be great to have a specific discussion community focused just on mixers like the DB4.
Danae Dumler
10.04.2012		I too accepted that I would eventually get a K2 so I did, picked it up at Hollywood DJ yesterday; pretty sure I won't get another, at least not now. So I have one X1 and one K2 for a totally asymmetrical setup. Haven't had time to mess with the K2 yet though but it is pretty cool and looks nice sitting next to the DB4. But I'm already kind of annoyed that you can't really do anything interesting with X-link yet; I just hope they actually come through with something. I really didn't need another midi controller (though the built in soundcard means this will come on the road with me instead of Audio 8 + VCI-100 if I am doing something low key) but what I do need (or just plain want) is buttons that are programmed to interact with the effects on the DB4. I realize a full mapping solution is unlikely since it would require separate software but it would be great if A+H had preprogrammed mappings for the buttons and knobs that give you specific FX combinations and settings at the click of a button. The interface on the mixer is not difficult to navigate, but how cool would it be if you could get to your favorite settings at the click of a button?

Is anyone using the Traktor Bible mappings for use with the DB4? (http://traktorbible.com/freaks/mappi...x?flavour=xone) I will probably start off with one of those but I also plan to have a standalone mapping for using it on the road; simple all-in-one 4-channel mixer assuming you have no other gear.
Cliff Lohman
09.04.2012		I did and thise work for the most part.. Was hoping that there were different states that could be used tho but looking at mixarch tsi it looks like its just 0 or 1..

I am loving this xtreme mapping app.. I cant believe how gitty i am now that i can map and read things outside of that tiny traktor pref box.
Tatum Ansaldo
09.04.2012		Have you tried using the button press notes?
Cliff Lohman
09.04.2012		Anybody know of any documentation on the db4s midi led commands? I see the midi notes in the manual but im not sure thise are the same for its leds? Anybody know?

Further, anybody happen to have a list of how they mapped leds along with the traktor controller ranges and midi ranges?

Just looking for the signals that would cause a traktor out command to turn db4 button light on or off.. I find that using some buttons for toggle in traktor isnt great for led visual indicators because of how some db4 buttons allow u to do that quick hold and release without fully engaging..
May Artman
01.04.2012		I was hyped for K2 a few months back but that was primarily with Ableton sets in mind. Lately I've just been playing with timecode and dicers and really don't have use for anything more. If I ever get the craving to break out the iPad, APC, etc and spend hours drawing up a set, I might give the K2 another look.
Cliff Lohman
30.03.2012
Originally Posted by Xonetacular
So anybody getting the K2s?

I like my X1s and only use them for basic transport, have no real need for K2s but if I could grab a pair and sell my X1s for not much loss I might. I like the idea of Xlink and I probably have little use for the knobs and faders while running the DB4 but still it would be cool as a mobile setup too. I guess I still just have a fetish for a Xone setup like when I had 1Ds and a 92.
I wound up getting one.. My first impression is that i like my x1 better but i need to spend some time with the k2. Im just so familiar with the x1 that the k2 feels very foreign.

I cannot get xlink to work properly. I believe i may have busted my db4 xlink port by shoving a usb cable in it one too many times by mistake.

In any event, i planned to use it more as a portable controller allinone solution but im def going to see if itll be a good fit wth db4 as well.


Ill report back after i spend more time.
Cliff Lohman
30.03.2012
Originally Posted by DigitalDevil
That's standard on all A&H mixers. AFAIK there's no way to change that on the DB4.
Theres a few cue and meter options that that kinda sounded like theyd get the metering as i hoped.. But i must be mistaken as i can only figure out how to
1. Get meter to show master level
2. Get meter to show cue level
3. Get meter to split to show cue on one side and cue on the other.

The manual doesnt mention autocue option.. What is that supposed to do? I dont notice any difference with it on or off.. I believe somebody mentioned it somewhere in this thread so ill take a look..
Tatum Ansaldo
30.03.2012
Originally Posted by Xonetacular
So anybody getting the K2s?

I like my X1s and only use them for basic transport, have no real need for K2s but if I could grab a pair and sell my X1s for not much loss I might. I like the idea of Xlink and I probably have little use for the knobs and faders while running the DB4 but still it would be cool as a mobile setup too. I guess I still just have a fetish for a Xone setup like when I had 1Ds and a 92.
I'd like it if there were a USB hub you could attach to the X-link port to turn the DB4 into a hub. Maybe a pipe dream, but it would really cut down on my cable clutter.
Romelia Stankard
29.03.2012		So anybody getting the K2s?

I like my X1s and only use them for basic transport, have no real need for K2s but if I could grab a pair and sell my X1s for not much loss I might. I like the idea of Xlink and I probably have little use for the knobs and faders while running the DB4 but still it would be cool as a mobile setup too. I guess I still just have a fetish for a Xone setup like when I had 1Ds and a 92.
May Artman
29.03.2012		That's standard on all A&H mixers. AFAIK there's no way to change that on the DB4.
Cliff Lohman
30.03.2012		How does everybody have their metering / headphone setting setup?

Im a little confused by some settings.. I wanted to ideally have the master meter normally show the mix levels.

But when I press a CUE button, I'd like the master meter to show the impact of that cue channel PLUS the master mix.

I thought this was possible but after fiddling around, i cant seem to get it right..

Any ideas?
Felipe Rasper
28.03.2012		Best choice you can make IMO
Basil Forshee
27.03.2012		I believe I just decided to go for the DB4, again.

Made every choice clear in my head and still the DB4 is like the best choice there is. I already have half of the money and soon have the rest. Simply said, the DB2 doesn't stand a chance against its big brother (the lack of 2 Filters and the missing Kill/Send mode from the DB4, it brings so much possibilities). For that € 500 more, why not? And the 92 is really, really good. But I don't like the idea of an external soundcard and when I should purchase that, I lose the same money as on the DB4.

Now waiting for a pricedrop, since they recently have gone up here in The Netherlands.
Basil Forshee
26.03.2012		For using one of the channels (leaving 3 channels for another DAW) you can use the internal soundcard and since you've a MacBook Pro, you can use the soundcard in different DAW's simultaneously.

If you want to keep 4 channels for Traktor (or something else) and don't want to use the input matrix or route the Maschine to the same output as one of Traktor's deck outputs, then you should consider an external soundcard. Dubfire is going this route.

It's a shame, considering the Xone:4D does have (10 out) 5 analogue USB outputs...
Deidra Wheeless
26.03.2012		I worked it out buying second hand and try being smart doing business so I know I can get significant sum of money back easy, this way I can change stuff around me often, which gives me like a kick of happiness, although the lesser money involved in the trade the lesser joyrush..
Lynetta Stanislav
26.03.2012		thanks for the replies had a quick look , looks like the options are as I thought use the input matrix or get a audio interface.
Tatum Ansaldo
26.03.2012
Originally Posted by THE DEEP SEA DJ
check out the DB4 community page, whilst its far from flourishing, there are some posts directly related to your question.
Just to clarify, I believe TDSDJ means the DB4 page of the Xone community s.

Lol, just realised that turning that name into an anagram makes it sound like 'tedious DJ'
Yevette Matatall
26.03.2012		For those booths with no room it would be nice to have a mould similar to a deck saver that fitted atop a DJM mixer and provided a slight angled elevation of the db4. The db4 is light.... proberly more visable if you played at the venue on a regular basis.
Yevette Matatall
26.03.2012
Originally Posted by neilmcm
I have got Maschine and wonder how you go about hooking it up the dB4 do I need to have a audio interface for putting into the mic channel or best to use one of the channel using the matrix input.
check out the DB4 community page, whilst its far from flourishing, there are some posts directly related to your question.
Tatum Ansaldo
26.03.2012		You could just use the DB4's internal sound card as the output device for maschine or whichever DAW you're using it in.
Lynetta Stanislav
26.03.2012		I have got Maschine and wonder how you go about hooking it up the dB4 do I need to have a audio interface for putting into the mic channel or best to use one of the channel using the matrix input.
Kiyoko Wellisch
26.03.2012		Always possible but yeah that's probably the best idea assuming you have enough space. You could use the EQ on the club mixer as an isolator- bonus!
Dione Haimes
26.03.2012		Move the CDJs a bit further apart and stick your db4 down next to the club mixer, run line from master on db 4 into a channel on

/win
Kiyoko Wellisch
26.03.2012		I meant more specifically if you're carrying it from club to club- I certainly wouldn't want to either unhook the club mixer and replace it with the DB4 or have to DJ with a mixer that was no where near the turntables themselves. Replacing the club mixer with your own doesn't seem feasible.
Dorie Scelzo
26.03.2012		Sorry, 'bout the effects thing. If you're already spinning with Ableton, you've got a lot at your fingertips and some way to control it all. I agree that some hardware gives better control…maybe I need to spend some time with a db4, but I just don't see how it's controls are better than a basic Ableton mapping.

Then again, we might be believeing of different things by "basic" there.

I guess I just see it the opposite of mrpopinjay. I'd use it with TTs/CDJs long before I'd believe about it for Live.
Tatum Ansaldo
26.03.2012
Originally Posted by Xonetacular
Now start doing some filter sweeps and using the auto loopers to really take it up a notch

I've run my TV through it a few times to listen through my monitors and things get pretty trippy when you start effecting and looping stuff
Haha way ahead of you dude. A couple of weeks ago I had a CD of 1950s East German communist music that I was studying for a university module and I had a lot ​of fun with FX and loopers.
Romelia Stankard
25.03.2012
Originally Posted by fullenglishpint
Found a great new use for the DB4 FX - beefing up streamed music! I'm watching the UMF live feed on youtube and it's a bit lacking at the bottom end so I gave it a healthy dose of the fundamental effect and a lil' bass boost and it sounds 10x better!


Now start doing some filter sweeps and using the auto loopers to really take it up a notch

I've run my TV through it a few times to listen through my monitors and things get pretty trippy when you start effecting and looping stuff
Tatum Ansaldo
25.03.2012		Found a great new use for the DB4 FX - beefing up streamed music! I'm watching the UMF live feed on youtube and it's a bit lacking at the bottom end so I gave it a healthy dose of the fundamental effect and a lil' bass boost and it sounds 10x better!
Felipe Rasper
24.03.2012		Yes, exactly what i thought
Amira Gotcher
24.03.2012
Originally Posted by Xonetacular
That's like asking why would you use a hardware synth when you could use Omnisphere? Yeah there are VSTs that sound as good or better but you have FX that sound better than most VSTs right on the mixer with really tactile and accessible controls. And if not mixing with ableton then is a hassle to setup just for FX and then if you are running a couple VSTs you still have to map them to a controller, look at your screen or possibly even second laptop, route it through the mixer or rewire it, and in general is just a pain of a setup when you could just do it on the DB4 and never have to look at a screen or another controller.
Exactly.
Romelia Stankard
24.03.2012
Originally Posted by mostapha
Why would you use the DB4 effects when you have Ableton at your disposal? I'm sure its reverbs are fine, but they're not convolution reverbs like you can get for Live.
That's like asking why would you use a hardware synth when you could use Omnisphere? Yeah there are VSTs that sound as good or better but you have FX that sound better than most VSTs right on the mixer with really tactile and accessible controls. And if not mixing with ableton then is a hassle to setup just for FX and then if you are running a couple VSTs you still have to map them to a controller, look at your screen or possibly even second laptop, route it through the mixer or rewire it, and in general is just a pain of a setup when you could just do it on the DB4 and never have to look at a screen or another controller.
Kiyoko Wellisch
24.03.2012		Like I said, if your preference is for the DB4 and it's a big part of your style. Like all things it's about preference.
Dorie Scelzo
24.03.2012
Originally Posted by MrPopinjay
I feel that the DB4 is an exception though- if you worked those 4 brilliant effects units into your routine I could totally understand lugging it about and using it alone with a laptop and ableton. Maybe a launchpad as well.

I certainly wouldn't bother if I were going to be using turntables/CD players though, too much hassle setting up.
Why would you use the DB4 effects when you have Ableton at your disposal? I'm sure its reverbs are fine, but they're not convolution reverbs like you can get for Live.

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