Need help picking a new mixer.

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Need help picking a new mixer.
Posted on: 02.02.2013 by Alison Mahowald
I want new mixer around $1200 mark. I spin 2x vinyl and run 2x cdj's (mainly vinyl) but never more than two at a time but I still like 4 channels for some reason. I don't use midi, dvs or effects. I use mainly channel fader for cuts as I spin hip hop/funk but not a great scratcher. Tossing idea of empath, xone 92, ecler evo 4 but every review I read changes my mind. So if ya got a moment hit me up with your thoughts.. Cheers

(Had pioneer 909 lived it but alcohol related accident killed it, so bought ddm4000 as fill in.)
Doreen Schurle
03.02.2013
Originally Posted by MyUsername
Oooh I see, I had something like a DJM-900 in mind.
Ahhhh, tall and thin instead of short and wide :P

Personally, I can't wait to get my hands on this little beauty:


MIDI only though, unfortunately
Nereida Jasnoch
03.02.2013
Originally Posted by mdcdesign
I suppose it depends on what sort of mixer we're talking about; I usually have to use the 19" 4/5U rackmount stuff that you usually find in clubs... a Zero8's about the same size as the Formula Sound FSM-400, for example.
Oooh I see, I had something like a DJM-900 in mind.
Doreen Schurle
03.02.2013
Originally Posted by MyUsername
Wat ? I'm looking at my Zero 4 right now and he 's the size of a normal 4 channel mixer, I can't imagine the 8 channel version is just as small.

It was a flagship model a half a decade ago and IMO it still kicks ass for the price. Although it definitely has its flaws, I could do a full write up but since OP has no FireWire it's pretty useless.
I suppose it depends on what sort of mixer we're talking about; I usually have to use the 19" 4/5U rackmount stuff that you usually find in clubs... a Zero8's about the same size as the Formula Sound FSM-400, for example.
Nereida Jasnoch
03.02.2013
Originally Posted by Crikeyj
Firstly thanks.

I guess I'm a bit worried about the channel faders on the 92 as I intend on using them for cuts (I read the lag or curve might be a problem) also wondering if I'm not paying for a heap of effects and midi I'm not going to use?
The 92 only has a low pass filter, high pass filter and band pass filter built in and no midi capabilities.
But what 's that with the faders ? Are they logaritmical ? My zero 4 has logaritmical faders and it doesn't make it impossible to mix but I'd really prefer regular ones.
Nereida Jasnoch
03.02.2013
Originally Posted by mdcdesign
Well I would've suggested the Zero4, but it's the same price as the Zero8 and lacks the Kaoss pad; the Zero8 is about the same size as a "normal" 4 channel mixer anyway.
Wat ? I'm looking at my Zero 4 right now and he 's the size of a normal 4 channel mixer, I can't imagine the 8 channel version is just as small.

It was a flagship model a half a decade ago and IMO it still kicks ass for the price. Although it definitely has its flaws, I could do a full write up but since OP has no FireWire it's pretty useless.
Corey Tronchin
05.02.2013
I've had an x1600 and now have a Xone 4d. I liked the crossfader on the denon more, but on all other things the Xone wins hands down.

But you've chosen wisely I see
Alison Mahowald
04.02.2013
Awesome, thanks proben!! You just eased my post purchase jitters while I wait for it to ship!

Cheers mate
Danae Dumler
04.02.2013
Well I came into this discussion a bit late but the Ecler is exactly what I would recommend. If the faders on the Nuo 4 are anything like the ones on the Evo 5 you will be VERY happy with them. Ecler hardware is fantastic and the sound is great - certainly in the same class as the Rane and the Xone 92, which are all top notch. The 92 does have great filters and a 4-channel EQ but those features don't sound that important to you, and in terms of overall feel I much prefer Eclers -- fat EQ knobs, lots of space, and smooth smooth faders. The Rane Empath is a great sounding mixer too but if three channels is a limitation for you you're better off with the Ecler.
Alison Mahowald
04.02.2013
Ecler it is ordered it today. Thanks for the advice people!!
Alison Mahowald
04.02.2013
Hey cheers baseline excellent review much appreciated. I like ranes to but they seem to be a bit scarce over here in Australia not sure why? Think I've decided the 92 Is a bit over the top for my requirements. But like rane these ecler people seem to put alot of faith in them as a very solid no frills analog mixer which is down my alley. So as I can pick up a nuo 4.0 for about 750 odd I'm believeing I may have found my new baby! Bit risky as I have still never seen or touched one of these.. Unless anyone out there who has used one can tell me something I've missed that I'm not going to like??

Thanks again guys!!
Chandra Lean
03.02.2013
denon x1600
Audrey Pinda
03.02.2013
From what I've read, and what I've used... it's a pretty tough call. I use SSL with both vinyl and CDJ's, but I don't really go much beyond using it as the most efficient way to carry around my music. I don't use FX or anything fancy either, and while I don't scratch, I do like the concept myself.

I use a Rane TTM-56 at home. It's a two channel mixer, and so wouldn't really fit the bill for what you're looking for. The Empath only has three channels... and so while it would be an awesome mixer, it wouldn't really do what you wanted either. I really love Rane mixers and wish they made a simple 4 channel one. I love the feel and sound that comes out of them. I've had friends comment on it playing over my place rather than on their less-than-expensive mixers at home.

You can find used Pioneer mixers for a decent price, right around your budget for a decent used DJM-800... but you don't need all that jazz really. It is a solid mixer though, so it's worth consideration.

I really like the Xone 92. Probably one of my favorite mixers that I've used myself. I really liked the 4 band EQ and felt the faders were solid. It's honestly one of the next mixers I'm looking at for purchase. That 4 band EQ can't be overlooked if you are an EQ whore... it brings things up to a completely other level.

Ecler seems solid. I've never used them. And that's where I'll leave it at that. People seem to really swear by them, but what I can tell of the company, it's basically out of business and not producing anything new. So that'd be something to believe about.

Honestly? If you wanted to go with a solid 2 channel mixer and just plug into the line for the CDJ inputs, and the Phono for the TT's, you'd probably be more than fine and end up with a better product for less money. In that case I seriously would look at the Rane TTM-56 or TTM-56S. What can I say, I like Rane products.

But the Xone 92 is probably the best solution otherwise I believe. And that's my recommendation if you want to go with 4 channels without the need for FX.
Doreen Schurle
03.02.2013
Originally Posted by MyUsername
Oooh I see, I had something like a DJM-900 in mind.
Ahhhh, tall and thin instead of short and wide :P

Personally, I can't wait to get my hands on this little beauty:


MIDI only though, unfortunately
Nereida Jasnoch
03.02.2013
Originally Posted by mdcdesign
I suppose it depends on what sort of mixer we're talking about; I usually have to use the 19" 4/5U rackmount stuff that you usually find in clubs... a Zero8's about the same size as the Formula Sound FSM-400, for example.
Oooh I see, I had something like a DJM-900 in mind.
Doreen Schurle
03.02.2013
Originally Posted by MyUsername
Wat ? I'm looking at my Zero 4 right now and he 's the size of a normal 4 channel mixer, I can't imagine the 8 channel version is just as small.

It was a flagship model a half a decade ago and IMO it still kicks ass for the price. Although it definitely has its flaws, I could do a full write up but since OP has no FireWire it's pretty useless.
I suppose it depends on what sort of mixer we're talking about; I usually have to use the 19" 4/5U rackmount stuff that you usually find in clubs... a Zero8's about the same size as the Formula Sound FSM-400, for example.
Nereida Jasnoch
03.02.2013
Originally Posted by Crikeyj
Firstly thanks.

I guess I'm a bit worried about the channel faders on the 92 as I intend on using them for cuts (I read the lag or curve might be a problem) also wondering if I'm not paying for a heap of effects and midi I'm not going to use?
The 92 only has a low pass filter, high pass filter and band pass filter built in and no midi capabilities.
But what 's that with the faders ? Are they logaritmical ? My zero 4 has logaritmical faders and it doesn't make it impossible to mix but I'd really prefer regular ones.
Nereida Jasnoch
03.02.2013
Originally Posted by mdcdesign
Well I would've suggested the Zero4, but it's the same price as the Zero8 and lacks the Kaoss pad; the Zero8 is about the same size as a "normal" 4 channel mixer anyway.
Wat ? I'm looking at my Zero 4 right now and he 's the size of a normal 4 channel mixer, I can't imagine the 8 channel version is just as small.

It was a flagship model a half a decade ago and IMO it still kicks ass for the price. Although it definitely has its flaws, I could do a full write up but since OP has no FireWire it's pretty useless.
Alison Mahowald
03.02.2013
The ecler nuo 4.0 sounds like the goods. The denon dnx1600 looks great too but still looks like it's got a whole bunch of stuff I'm not going to use but the price of 1100 is nice. Only concern on the ecler is at 700 is it going to be a step up from behringer dd4000 I currently have which was 600. I want something to impress me and as I only heard of eclers by reading posts on here would hate it to be a sideways step. Any further suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers to all for your time!
Ena Nouri
03.02.2013
Since you have $1200 to blow and don't use MIDI or any digital functions from mixer, I'd recommend Ecler Nuo4.0. It's a solid analogue mixer so it should clear out your concern of getting the best sound quality. (And yeah, denon is digital)

I personally have denon x-1600 and Rane ttm56s (the sound quality is pretty close to empath), and I do find the ttm56s sounds a bit warmer in comparison. Denon's xfader is pretty solid and adjustable for scratch, but the volume fader is not very loose and the tension cannot be adjust.

Edit: Denon sounds pretty decent IMO, tho I have never played out with viynl but traktor.
Alison Mahowald
02.02.2013
Ok cool. Then next question is the denon digital? Was hoping for analog as I'm mainly looking at spinning vinyl and read that converting to digital is not the best for sound quality. Hence I was looking at a&h or empath as I thought they were analog mixers?

Or is that not a real concern?
Shan Bauerly
02.02.2013
The curves on the 1600 are adjustable, both cross and line faders. Quality wise... it's as solid and smooth as anything I've played. I don't scratch, but the cross-fader is tension adjustable, as well. I don't believe the 1600 will hold you back.
Alison Mahowald
02.02.2013
Firstly thanks.

I guess I'm a bit worried about the channel faders on the 92 as I intend on using them for cuts (I read the lag or curve might be a problem) also wondering if I'm not paying for a heap of effects and midi I'm not going to use?
That's why I thought the empath cos it seems to be a bit no frills in comparison but i don't get 3 channels? Do you still only use 2 else aren't I going to be forever changing the channel on one?
And are denon 1600 in same quality ball park? Ive got dns3700 cdj which I love for the spinning platter but not sure if it's right up there quality wise.

Cheers for your advise guys as 1200 is top budget so it's a big call and I haven't touched any of these as I live rural and won't know till I own it.
Latoria Kavulich
02.02.2013
Seeing as you don't use much midi etc, if you can pick up a xone 92 for that money i would go for that. If you wanted to use dvs for that money you could pick up a dnx1600 and an x1 with the change.
Shan Bauerly
02.02.2013
Denon DN-X1600
Yong Aptekar
02.02.2013
Xone all the way if you have that kind of $$ to spend
Doreen Schurle
02.02.2013
Ah I wasn't aware of the FireWire limitation... scratch that one then lol.
Edwina Fagel
02.02.2013
Anyways, Zero4 and 8 had lots of drivers problems, connect to the computer only via firewire and are kinda outdated.
Not recommended imo.
Doreen Schurle
02.02.2013
Well I would've suggested the Zero4, but it's the same price as the Zero8 and lacks the Kaoss pad; the Zero8 is about the same size as a "normal" 4 channel mixer anyway.
Edwina Fagel
02.02.2013
Originally Posted by mdcdesign
Korg Zero 8 of course
Don't get why he should need to buy a 8 channel mixer when he wants to use 4.
Anyways Xone DB2 / 92, Ecler EVO4, DJM850.
They are all great mixers and it just comes down to a personal preference.
Harley Zitka
02.02.2013
Originally Posted by MyUsername
If I had 1200 to spend I'd get a Xone 92.
+1 without question
Doreen Schurle
02.02.2013
Korg Zero 8 of course
Nereida Jasnoch
02.02.2013
If I had 1200 to spend I'd get a Xone 92. Perhaps it will be my next purchase as well.

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