It looks like Allen and Heath may have accidentally leaked some info today on the DB4 mixer after teasing the dj market for the past few weeks. Its a 4 channel analogue mixer with a full sound card and built in digital fx. Think of the Rane 68 or a DJM-600 with a sound card. Hopefully clubs around the world will start installing hybrid mixers like this in every booth, so controller djs wont need to lug around sound cards! More info and another photo after the break.
NEXT GENERATION DIGITAL DJ FX MIXER
“The Xone:DB4 is a truly ground-breaking mixer and by far the most advanced product that we have designed. Every feature has been meticulously researched with a view to offering DJs ultimate creativity. Based on the iLive pro-touring FX system, we developed FX algorithms with BPM conscious parameters and tight spectral control, customised to perfectly fit the DJ environment.
As the loops and FX are automatically synchronised to the tempo of the track, it is very easy to build some amazing grooves and soundscapes without problems of latency, low fidelity and the general hassle often associated with using software and laptops.
The icing on the cake is the flexible input matrix, where any audio source can be selected on any or all of the channels. Different processing can be applied to the same track on separate channels and you can fade between them, or a phrase sampled in the looper of one channel can be added to the mix later in the track. Our digital design team has done an incredible job to ensure that this is one of the most innovative and exciting DJ mix tools to date.”
Andy Rigby-Jones
Xone Design Manager
Quad FX Core
The heart of the Xone:DB4 is the powerful Quad FX Core DSP engine, enabling each channel to have its own FX bank and BPM detection system, which automatically adjusts all time-related FX and loops to the tempo of the music. There are 5 studio quality FX types optimised for DJ use – delays, reverbs, modulators, resonators and damage – plus each FX type has a patch library of different effect variations. Each FX bank has a dedicated expression control and a rotary pot to set the wet/dry level, whilst further tweaking can be performed using the global controllers in the FX master section.
Looper
Each channel has a built-in looper, with selectable loop length from 1/16 beat to 4 bars.The :DB4 will always record the full 4 bars, so the loop can be expanded or shrunk at will.
Filters
Xone:DB4 comes equipped with the Xone dual filter system.
Source select
Each music channel can select any of the available stereo music sources: Analogue Line 1-4 (switchable to Phono on 2-3), Digital 1-4 or USB 1-4.
EQ / Filter
Each music channel has a 3-band EQ that can be configured as standard asymmetric EQ (+6/-25dB), Isolator (+6dB/OFF with a 24dB/octave slope), or reconfigured as a
High-Pass/Low-Pass filter system with adjustable resonance. EQ knob pointers change colour to show which type of equalization is active.
Mic/Line Input
The Mic/Line input has 2-band EQ, gain, cue and mix level. This can also be routed to
channel 1 for adding FX.
Integral Soundcard
A built-in, high quality (24-bit / 96kHz), multi-channel, fully patchable USB2 soundcard allows replay and recording from audio software for 4 stereo sends and 4 stereo returns.
Just tested the sound quality of the Xone DB4 against the Xone 4D today.
Xone DB4 – sounds cleaner, more accurate, more clarity compared to the Xone 4D
Xone 4D – sounds warmer, better punch and bass response, sound stage felt more than the DB4, and it’s louder.
All comes down to personal preference. I personally still love the sound of the Xone 4D but am switching to DB4 due to it being lighter and smaller.
This is the most amazing mixer i have ever used. Sure if you want to go the way of Digital mixing by an s4 or another controller but this beast takes the cake. The ability to layer the same input over 4 channels as well as using midi to control modul8 is amazing. I highly recommend this mixer for any music enthusiast.
Best sounding mixer on the market. Takes a massive dump all over the DJM 800/900. Plus the FX don’t get boring and can run independently on each channel. The routing matrix is amazing too, makes it quick and easy to dump one deck to a spare channel, capture it in to the looper load up a new song and mix into/out of. It’s the best and most fun I have ever had using any dj mixer ever.
It is like having a 4 channel SSL G in front of you… Love the mix buss compression as well… Really pumps!
Dear allen and heath, I have been djing for almost 10 years so I believe this mixer earns a comment. It looks like gold! Forget these new video world wants and vido screen mixers… That stuff is all crap and almost never really used by pros who really play for the love of beats and making people dance. I believe a good dj is someone who uses the gear to make something unique happen. To date I am sorry to say but pioneer have been on top since the DJM and EFX 1000 hit the world. This is because the efx aspect on a mixer is really important. Having owned the xone 62 and 92 leave me the ability to even tell you about a problem I hope has been fixed on this db4. I find the problem in past allen and heath bords on the filter section. Having to chose your channel is just stupid because it becomes part of the crossfade. I hope this one has an option to not be part of the crossfade in order to avoid accedental fades from simple club life. I also hope the sound is good because I would actually sell my djm and efx 1000 in order to buy your new mixer. I say this because I love all the hard work you put into having everything in front of you! Its great there are new tricks to be developed as a dj simply because of this! In all honesty I have always said go big or go home. The same can be said for mixer lol looking foward to trying it out
It’s awesome! 🙂
I shared your text in my twitter account, i like it. Theme very popular for my friends.
I use the Xone:92 and LOVE IT! Yeah, it’s a pain in the rear to lug around, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything – well almost anything. It’s a world of difference compared to some of the other mixers out there. A&H have been spot on from the very beginning. Now if I can play enough shows to go drop a couple of g’s on this DB4!
really … no 4 channel eq ?
This will be an effective machine but its going to be a much more expensive alternative to the KORG ZERO 4 . I seen the specs its the same thing except the built in sound card and effects may be a bit different. I really love Allen and Heath but maybe KORG and Allen and Heath should of gotten together and made something together that would be different.
I miss the (old) design used on the 92. The slick interface with the silver top plate and nice looking lights in contrast. This black standard ugly thing will never be popular. Like someone said above me. The designs suck on allen & heath lately and i agree. I love the 92 because its unique, perfection soundquality and simple. This db4 is just gonna be forgotten along with a tousand other mixers. So to allen & heath: Keep doing unique products. Thats whats gonna keep you in business.
ive owned both. looks are decieving. while i thought the db4 would scare a punter dj senseless, it was surprisingly more intuitive than it looks. sound quality is also surprisingly better than my 92 and xone3d which i totally didnt expect since A&H sound is already superiour to most other brands on the market.
this mixer with its digital routing is a gamechanger. its changing the workflow of a good dj (mark my words “good” dj, not your standard wannabe hack)
ive owned both. looks are decieving. while i thought the db4 would scare a punter dj senseless, it was surprisingly more intuitive than it looks. sound quality is also surprisingly better than my 92 and xone3d which i totally didnt expect since A&H sound is already superiour to most other brands on the market.
this mixer with its digital routing is a gamechanger. its changing the workflow of a good dj (mark my words “good” dj, not your standard wannabe hack)
ive owned both. looks are decieving. while i thought the db4 would scare a punter dj senseless, it was surprisingly more intuitive than it looks. sound quality is also surprisingly better than my 92 and xone3d which i totally didnt expect since A&H sound is already superiour to most other brands on the market.
this mixer with its digital routing is a gamechanger. its changing the workflow of a good dj (mark my words “good” dj, not your standard wannabe hack)
I have to admit that initially I was very disappointed, because I thought that this new DB4 gear was a controller for either a new version of ITCH or TSP that would add the outstanding music video features that would finally release us all from the SSL ridiculous dongle and having to keep switching software every time we need to mix music videos. I currently use TSP and SSL, but I don’t want to switch software every now and then just to play video clips. Nevertheless, going back to DB4 topic, after watching the BPM videos, well… I am actually amazed with A&H. What they have done is really incredible. This mixer can be used in many different ways, but for me, personally, I see it more as laptop replacement. With 2 CDJ’s and this mixer, there is no need to use the laptop anymore on stage. I know…that’s what Pioneer said when they first launched the CDJ-2000 and it didn’t happen….but that’s mainly due to 3 reasons: we like the big laptop screen for searching through big collections of music, we like having a bigger song wave display and more and more often we’re asked to mix music videos. Now, if you think that more and more multimedia players are coming to the market with better screens and search functions, then the only reason to keep using laptops on stage would be to mix video. With the DB4, even with just 1 CDJ, we can make a huge party without the need for a laptop, because DB4 has no less than 4 loop recorders and matrix source selectors. This enables to play from one source and create 4 different loops on 4 different channels and apply individual effects on each of the 4 channels at the same time! I know it’s a very expensive mixer, but it’s the first 4 channel mixer where you can really use and abuse of the 4 different channels without the need to have 4 different input audio sources. If I can, I would rather leave my laptop secured at home and use it only to prepare my tracks or to mix music videos (DB4 can also be used as a midi controller…). So, after all, I am not disappointed with A&H DB4. When looking to this mixer in detail, I am actually now considering buying one!
this thing owns your DJM800 mate
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnBCPyN6sA8
I don’t think half of the functions outlined i nthat video have even been discussed on here. Infinitely more club suitable than the S4
I’ll stick with my 800
I think a lot of ppl are missing the idea of this mixer.
From what I’ve read about it so far it is a midi controller.
I have the 1700 (Denon) and I think the fx are awesome (but maybe it’s cause I know how to use them. I’d rather have everything in front of me rather than constantly paying attention to the laptop.
A mixer/controller in one with fx is state of the art engineering. Hats off to ppl who produce mixers like this that can keep our hands off the laptop and just dj.
With my 1700, it’s mapped where I don’t have to touch the laptop aside from turning it on. I can map it to traktors fx (if i wanted to) and use the internal fx on the mixer.
Really though what more do I need?
The price on this is £2000
it is released in December
hmm the only advantage I can see this unit bringing to the market is that it may push the price of the 4D down….as that is still IMHO the superior product the more of us that get a chance to afford/use that the better…
i guess the soundquality will indeed be amazing, but the look/layout of this beast is clearly unfortunate.. maybe just too many buttons on this one. still, who knows, it might also be a very very handy thing once you get used to it.. time will tell.
Seriously, who cares about 4 effect processor ? Even the 2 on my DN-X1700 are useless, that’s not DJing but creating a fucking mess in your tracks. Sorry A&H but for the first time it’s a fail, update the Xone 92 with little features users are waiting for and that’s it.
You obviously don’t do any studio production. And just mix other peoples music. If you knew anything about sound synthesis, this product may seem a whole lot more appealing to you.
Oh man that’s mindblowing with the signal routing to single or all channels.
You could be mixing out a track, but have it bumped into 3 & 4 with delayed and reverbed channels (both set quieter), then fade out the delay, then the reverb, properly simulating sound travelling off into the distance ..
Oh the possibilities!
If only DJMxxx / CDJxxxx wasn’t the industry standard to see in clubs.. if only 😛
@davendiva
[quote comment=”37991″]Why are they making a mixer like this (?).[/quote]
Times are changing, indeed. And so I recomend you check DB4’s sound specs Particularly distortion numbers and Signal to Noise ratio.
Your second question rather answers your first one[quote comment=”37991″]why can’t they think of something new and different as opposed to releasing something that is no better than pioneer or rane.[/quote]
Rane and Pioneer did the maths and acted already: Check distortion and S/N of DJM-600 numbers compared with DJM-2000, same with Rane’s 68 model.
In sum, apart from innovations and myriad of MIDI controllers and evergorwing software outhere, there is and will be a need for a central hands-on MIXER that does precisely that: MIX and ROUTE, and manufaturers and sound installers are realizing that for this job, mixers actually need ACURACY not Euphony, you can add those sound flavors when you plug in YOUR thing; turntable, Laptop, effector, simulator…
The good news is that digital Djs will directly, losslessly tap into the new central-core mixers at ease.
The bad news are that MP3’s inherent bad sound quality will be everytime more in evidence.
Sound quality change is finally coming to the Dancefloor and Dj booth, globally 🙂
Why are they making a mixer like this, if you already get all the looping and fx built in to software like traktor? Would you cough up the £2000 price tag when you can get a Xone 4d with midi controlls included for a third cheaper? Even a xone 92 with a couple of 1/2D’s is better than this in my opinion. A&H was innotive when they released the Xone 3d so why can’t they think of something new and different as opposed to releasing something that is no better than pioneer or rane.
I may be ignorant here, but it seems to me that A&H missed their obvious nitch market; an analog mixer w/ the notorious A&H sound quality complete with a card(s) which is/are user-upgradeable and compatible w/ both Traktor and Serato. All configured in such a way that two computers running the same, or different DVS’ can be connected simultaneously allowing back to back tag-teaming w/ out a break in the music or stupid CD/iPod juggling. They can throw in some FX for the Serato users who don’t want to mess with Bridge, but other than that, nothing else is required. for those w/ midi controllers we are always gonna want to bring that stuff w/ us anyway because its easy and personal to our own styles of DJing. Please let me know if such a mixer already exists!!!
A DB4 could very well be the central base where to plug the CDjs, the TTables, plus what would be the 2dary base; each Dj’s own laptop.
And the MIDI controllers -revamped D line?? or the myriad else- would be connected to the lappy.
@ Parties/Discos, I can already see two wide empty slots alongside the TTs or CDjs, prepared for the visiting Djs to fast install. There’ll be waiting, two ready USB extensions prepared to connect the incoming gear to the central Xone:DB4
this is quite sure not the product i excpected… just thought the db4 would be a better dx, usable with traktor with midi-pannel and so on 🙁
may buy the xone dx… or the upcomming denon mc6000…
is it really so hard so invent a product, combining all the benefits from a D4 (sound interface.. especially the digital output:-)), S4 (great traktor implication)…
i’m really disappointed…
after the xone dx failure, here comes another one by a&h…those traktor guys are really lucky….and very clever of course to produce, x1, machine + s4….cant beat da germans (comments from a greek guy)
My two cents. is that mixer build in effects tends to produce better effects that the software effects can produce. But then again we have ear’s, or i’m just not good enough in setting the right effect parameters in tarktor
A&H is releasing their first 100% digital sound path mixer.”Our digital design team has done an incredible job”,”The icing on the cake is the flexible input matrix” added to
“the powerful Quad FX Core DSP engine”, “EQ that can be configured”, “A built-in, high quality (24-bit / 96kHz), multi-channel, fully patchable USB2 soundcard(from A&H)”.”Source select, each music channel can select (…), Digital 1-4 or USB 1-4″.
All points to a 100% fully Digital DJ mixer. As comented in posts above, it has been done; Denon’s DNX-1700, Pio’s DJM-2000, Vextax PMC-580Pro, and patcheable 100% Digitals; like Ecler’s EVO5, Korg’s Zero Line, etc.
Why A&H would have released this fully Digital DJ Mixer?
Firt is the importance of the DJ-Producer finally getting a central hands-on tool where to “star connect” extra controllers, midi(own D line or any other midi gear) controlling a Laptop (and then sum the USB ins).
Secondly is the sound quality recently attained by the sound systems. Actual high Signal to Noise ratios, and extreme-low measured Sound distortion figures have no contest.
Allowing this mixer to be part of a recording set up. Something that A&H’s 3D and 4D mixers could not do in terms of sound quality.
As David Gerrod acutely puts it @ http://www.maximumpc.com/article/columns/future_tense_digital_versus_analog
“The real problem with digital sound is not that it is inferior to analog, but that it is superior. It is clinically accurate”
And so its perfect for lossless routing and mixing.
PS; it just remains to be seen if Xone:DB4 internally works at 24, 32, or 40 bits processing?. Also, if it can process 44.1, 48, or/and 96Khz in 24 bits of audio quality?.
And No, Techtools article’s second phrase is obviously wrong stating: “Its a 4 channel analogue mixer”. No it’s not. The only analolg processing inside DB4 most probably is at its Line-ins + Outs, that is what the soundcard is for, the rest, matrix, effects, routing, EQing and mixing, USB and Digital INs (and pbbly OUTs) is done in DSP digitally.
Aye aye aye… You know, A&H makes some of the best gear out there, no question about it. This one has sooo many things going for it – leaving your soundcard at home is such a huge step forward, but, as I see it, misses the mark on a few things:
1. Switching DJs might still be a hassle here;
2. EQ knobs are laid out in an unusual way. May or may not work;
3. Channel FX On/Off switch is also unusually located;
4. Channel volume LEDs in one place, master elsewhere. Ergonomics, people!
I just hope it sounds as good as everything coming out of the A&H barn does.
I have a feeling there’s going to be some startling news this Saturday. I’m guessing there’s a large software component to this mixer.
The USB port on top is interesting since their first teaser photo (the one with all the cables) implies there’s another USB port on the back…. almost as if the mixer is acting as some sort of USB hub or something.
/fail.
My brain started to lock up about half-way through the technical specs. Seemed so familiar. Figured out that this big beast reminds me a lot of the guitar rack for U2’s “The Edge” – so much overkill when skill and creativity are higher priorities than gadgets…I mean seriously, look at this: http://playitloud.de/effects/edge_rack_elevation_rack_gear.jpg
Also, they’re missing from the description “liquid resistant.” Yeah yeah I know most things aren’t and it’s probably a dream, but for what they’ll probably charge, protecting all those little blinky lights and stuff from beer should be a bigger priority.
Everything you can do with this giant paper weight you can do with Traktor and some clever midi setups. Big waste of money, Dj’ing is in the digital era, if you remember korg released some mixers with firewire sound cards and effects processors and the line failed. Im sure the build quality will be amazing from A&H , but I personally feel like this has been done before and is a waste of money when $1000 can buy you a laptop a respectable program and some descent midi/io kit.
Allen-Heath RULES!!!!AMAZING MIXER
[quote comment=”37771″]
The $4 look nice, well built but from the pictures I’ve seen the pitch and fader looked small. One thing you don’t want to change is the size of a dj’s fader or pitch. Hopefully GC will have a demo on display in November.
Miguel[/quote]
s4 and djm800 have the same fader lenght (45mm). sure it’s much more comfortable a 70mm one, but i don’t hear any complains about the djm
allen & heath’s response to pitch faders was a jog wheel….
From miguel “As you can probably imagine, I fell quite disappointed after reading that DB4 is just another mixer. Maybe a good one, but just for new club installations and DJ’s who do not use laptops, because any laptop DJ would naturaly prefer to use fully integrated solutions or certified controllers. So it seems that Native Instruments will continue to rule the world of DJ, despite the lack of video… NI, it’s time, come on, bring the video plug-in for traktor pro!”
I completely agree
Guys, it’s damn nice piece of kit. I’m sure it will be very convenient for use.
This link has the review with the hi-res pictures (need to expand it once they popup):
http://www.digitaldjtips.com/2010/09/xone-db4-review/
if you would consider that A&H know very well how people use the FX in Traktor, I bet they did the FX unit design in a way that they will complement Traktor’s effect, not overlap with them.
Hat off for the bold change of the layout – effects section in the middle might appear to be very playable.
The only gripe for me that it’s not equipped with a 5×5 channel audio interface – you can’t output maschine w/o additional hardware. It at least has the “Cue” on the line/mic channel, which is important for adding a maschine to the setup.
Disappointment… What does this mixer offer that cannot be emulated in software? I think companies need to focus on controllers that will allow users to interface more easily with the software that’s being developed and let the software do all the “DJ magic”. The S4, Xone:DX, VCI’s, NS7s etc are headed in the right direction… Hardware companies should push to a future where there is no mixer or decks installed in the clubs, just an empty booth with a patchbay to allow DJ’s to come in, setup their own portable hardware and play… The technic and CDJ-xxxx “standards” will soon be a thing of the past IMHO. DJs love to bring in their own gear because they don’t like the setup in the place they are booked in… I’ve seen that trend ever since the CDJ-1000 or even the Vestax 05 first came out. If you think I’m wrong, how many people have already asked how big the S4 footprint is? DJ’s are becoming all inclusive portable setups. That is becoming the standard. Why develop a mixer with tons of bells and whistles that are just going to be overridden by the DJ’s portable controller?
DB = Don’t Buy.
DB4 = Done Before.
You obviously don’t go to clubs or just don’t know what you’re talking about. This is a professional mixer, for DJs.
This isn’t aimed at people who buy your controller toys with DJ Hero software.
You obviously don’t go to clubs or just don’t know what you’re talking about. This is a professional mixer, for DJs.
This isn’t aimed at people who buy your controller toys with DJ Hero software.
Is there an OMG button in the FX module?? XD
I have to agree with lethal_pizzle
“My DVS has all the effects I need – this mixer is more likely to suit your traditional vinyl/CDJ setup”
Most vendors today are making these hybrid mixers to please both the digital and analog dj. Which is nice no one’s left out.
The only people who would utilize this mixer to its fullest potential would be a club dj or a group of dj that have different mixing styles and use the same gear.
I was expecting A&H to make a controller to compete with NI $4.
The $4 look nice, well built but from the pictures I’ve seen the pitch and fader looked small. One thing you don’t want to change is the size of a dj’s fader or pitch. Hopefully GC will have a demo on display in November.
Miguel
This looks like a behringer mixer, definitively doesnt look like a xone mixer. I hate the design, but i would love to see those fx in action, that might change my opinion.
Love the looping section on each channel, no more need for external sampler ever! (altough i dont see the pitch bend function, i wonder how would u correct the pitch when playing with vinyls or cds).
I like that they implemented the matrix function it is really handy.
4 band eq will be dearly missed.
Why did they stop using the round lighted buttons that were avaialable in the xone 42 / 92??
Why did they stop making the mixers in white colour? (they looked a lot more pro)??
It has some good and bad things, i would still get a xone 92.
I WOULD definitely use this mixer…..if they gave it to me for free!
otherwise way too many flaws on this thing in my own opinion!
I couldn’t agree more, for a fraction of the price I’ll stick with my S4 thank you very much. 4 bar loop sampler per channel? S4 already has that. 4 On board effects, S4 has like 17 effects that can be chained together!
Bollocks is right Double Dutch! No worries though, it’ll never beat the Pioneer DJM2000 as the future 4-chan mixer of choice for clubs. They tie in better with Traktor better too as the mixer section and the touch-screen both send to MIDI on different channels. You really can map the fuck out of it (if you can get someone to let you play with one)!
And once again another company fails at providing most DVS-Users with what they really want and need.
What most Traktor Scratch Pro users f.ex. want is an equivalent to the Rane TTM 68….a good solid 4 channel mixer with LOTSA MIDI and two seperate soundcards…who cares about 100000 FX on a mixer when now a days almost all DJ use some sort of dj-software that comes with it’s own efx.
Sry A&H, this mixer probably sounds superb and handels nicely but is yet a fail in my book! I’m dissapointed! : (
Too bad I don’t like hybrids -.-… Am looking forward to how this works out alongside Traktors FX…
Looks a bit cramped,but would love to play with one of these..
horseflowers!
It looks tight. An advance on the xone 4d, however, who is endorsing it? Native instruments are starting to bring out thier own hard ware and the Kontrol 1 and maschine set up are more than capable of doing all this and more. As to Luggging around sound cards… I play clubs and how many do you think are gonna run out and spend £2000 on a mixer just for me….exactly.
Nice, but maybe over excentric for what, will be to the average dj, a bedroom mixer….
Well good for clubs i guess not what i was expecting.
I only have 3 words for this : UGLY UGLY UGLY
@ StrangeMatter – My apology’s for miss leading ya, turns out DB4 really does just stand for dogs bollocks.
– I’ve posted the following on another web site, before knowing what the DB4 would be…
“It’s most probably a new controller for an updated version of Itch that comes with the long anticipated video plug-in, just like its brother SSL. That was still the only big difference between the two. Overall, due to Rane’s restrictions on SSL usage, it was a natural decision by Serato to develop a new DJ software that would not be bound to any specific mixer manufacturer, giving them full flexibility in terms of development and commercial strategy. This was clear when they’ve launched Itch and it’s probably obvious that they have been continuously developing Itch software to include all the features found in SSL and also other software features found in competitors such as Native Instruments Traktor Pro. I think DB4 it’s a fully integrated software and hardware solution, just like the previous A&H DX, except that Itch now comes with video plug-in and the DB4 comes with video controls , touch sensitive jog wheels and touch screen for custom mappings. If we add Ableton-Serato Bridge on top of this, well… then this is the absolute dream machine! If this is the case, then it will be a lot better solution than the new Traktor Kontrol S4. If this is the case, then Serato and Allen and Heath would be true winners, clearing out the competition. Finally Dj’s would have a fully integrated solution. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 it’s almost a perfect integrated solution, but it does not enable to mix video. It now includes samples, to rival with the “Bridge” Samples, but the Ableton – Serato “Bridge” concept is a lot wider in terms of functionality and has a lot more potential. Nevertheless, it’s true that this potential is more for the producer DJ than the regular DJ, which will find Traktor Samples probably a lot more fun to use live. So, to resume, the only big thing would be a controller that has everything that others do, plus video. This would even beat Pioneer. Pioneer’s video mixer is old and the new DJM-2000 does not control video natively. True that you can map the DJM-2000 touch screen to control video when using Serato Scratch Live or Mixvibes VFX software, but that’s moving away from the reason for having Pioneer equipment in the first place. A new controller that would bring video into the game is the only big and important factor in my perspective. Everything else has already been invented and there is no more room for toys. So, A&H , what’s new?”
– As you can probably imagine, I fell quite disappointed after reading that DB4 is just another mixer. Maybe a good one, but just for new club installations and DJ’s who do not use laptops, because any laptop DJ would naturaly prefer to use fully integrated solutions or certified controllers. So it seems that Native Instruments will continue to rule the world of DJ, despite the lack of video… NI, it’s time, come on, bring the video plug-in for traktor pro!
I didn’t like it…
I was expecting something else…
I’m still on the iPAD + external mixing boat 🙂
Not what I was expecting. Traktor S4 for me still. I was thinking (after DoubleDutch pointed it out!) that this might be a Itch-style mixer controller aimed at the Bridge which might have made me reconsider. Alas no. I wouldn’t mind trying it but I don’t see how I’d be comfortable with those EQs where they are. Wouldn’t it have made more sense to have the effects above the EQs?
I like the looping feature too but, again, Traktor will cover that as well.
Disappointing.
I usually don’t like Allen & Heath design (notably their Jog Wheels or small buttons for Hot Cues, etc.) but this mixer is just pure design perfection.
The features on this mixer are cutting edge and give us new options for creativity.
A&H have to certify this mixer for Traktor Scratch ASAP.
A&H was famous for stripped down, clean design..and now this…well, in my opinion it’s a good concept, but the concept needs a lot more space between the individual sections.
it almost let’s me think that A&H got scared by Pioneer’s DJM2000 which is an ugly, oversized unit…
But this one will get his fans which are up to pay the price…
Rather than an enhanced 92 with all the FX etc. (which would be enormous and weigh a ton!) how about they release an FX box add-on styled like the 1D & 2D, that you can put alongside your chosen mixer?
Rather than buy a 3D or 4D, I bought two 1Ds to put alongside my 92, which gives me a 3D+…
Agree with all the comments about the xone 92 above. Why cant Allen and Heath make an updated xone 92 that people will actually want to use in clubs rather than rolling out another pointless mixer. A xone 92 with a soundcard and high quality delay, reverb and possible sampler is all most people could ever want… Especially for those of us who are sick of tacky, cheesey pioneer effects.
A few nice ideas but:
1) unlikely to be installed in clubs
2) gonna be expensive, wouldn’t want to be carrying it about
3) My DVS has all the effects I need – this mixer is more likely to suit your traditional vinyl/CDJ setup
The reality is that you are still going to need to bring your soundcard, unless you also have this mixer at home. How many DJ’s will have the right drivers, and be willing to risk the right latency settings right off the bat ? As laptop DJ’s we are aware of the pitfalls and spend time working to ensure our kit avoids them.
Also, I really feel that a heavy FX based unit is going in the wrong direction. Software FX will always give the DJ more flexibility and an upgrade path that hardware doesnt offer.
‘Next Level’ is becoming a rather over used phrase these days. Yawn.
Don’t get me wrong I am aware of the Xone:4d which IS traktor Certified. But I think we are looking for 4D with internal midi mixing to save a few $$ by eliminating the Analog mixer section and maybe make it thin like the DX. so I can carry it around or on a plane without having to put it in checked baggage cuz it’s thick like my grandma’s 7 layer cake! If I need it raised up to sit next to TT’s then I probably gonna get a nice oddyssey case for it anyways.
Verry Nice!….But awwwwwww I’m gonna cry… I was really hoping for a “Traktor Certified” All midi controller from A&H with one of their awesome sound cards in it.
I want to be able to use current traktor scratch pro with either Time Code CD/vinyl, or 4 deck external midi control (i.e. 4 CDJ-900/2000’s), or internal midi with Real platters (much like the vestax vci-100) not like the xone:dx with it’s tiny jog wheels. & a Rotary knob for Pitch control? (WTF! If it aint broke don’t fix it!) Come one guys, I been waiting for a long time. Is anyone feeling me on this so far?
Why can’t anyone just make a Bad-ASS “PRO” grade controller that’s Portable, maps traktor pro exactly in hardware, and is versitile for adding machine or Ableton?
There are already too many itch controllers…whats the deal? Kontrol S4 IS really cool, BUT I’ve used it and I’m not totally convinced that it’s “PRO” Eqipment, with the new 8 channel sound-card I feel like IM missing a few channels, and those platters aren’t that easy to use with that center button to activate. When I wanna scratch my most intuitive thought isn’t to reach for the Spindle Area! .They ARE larger than most controllers I give them that, BUT THEY SHOULD be Touch sensitive (like the Vestax vci-100. I should have never sold mine) But oh yea, I wanted 4 decks) Guess I have to wait some more…
I think A&H must focus more on DVS market with a evolution of it’s Flagship product the Xone:92. This mixer (DB4) is much more like a DJM-800 with A&H hardware, bloated with 4 digital effects processors (here everything is all right) but: $$$$$..Why in the world this guys put a quality Sound Card intended for COMPUTER DJ’s that usually have DVS SOFTWARE WITH QUALITY EFFECT PROCESSORS Managed by this computers CPU’s power, and they put 4 EXTRA redundant DSP’s for extra FX’s on the mixer..?$$$$$ For me this is a product designed by the Marketing department, not Engineering one. I was hopping to see A&H developing a Xone:92 like mixer but with quality Sound Card for each channel, 4 EQ knobs that, like the Denon’s X1600 could have PRE and POST opperation both in the mixer or vía internal software EQ’s via MIDI, configurable buttons and knobs for activating processor FX units on software NOT IN THE MIXER to acomodate $$$PRICE$$$, keep the Auxiliary channels for Send and Recive external sources, an a LOT OF MIDI MAPPABLE BUTTONS AND EXTRA KNOBS..! That could be a DVS Mixer Killer, not a CDJ mixer one that pretend to ride the DVS DJ market..!
My 2 cents
Cheers !
I think A&H must focus more on DVS market with a evolution of it’s Flagship product the Xone:92. This mixer (DB4) is much more like a DJM-800 with A&H hardware, bloated with 4 digital effects processors (here everything is all right) but: > For me this is a product designed by the Marketing department, not Engineering one. I was hopping to see A&H developing a Xone:92 like mixer but with quality Sound Card for each channel, 4 EQ knobs that, like the Denon’s X1600 could have PRE and POST opperation both in the mixer or vía internal software EQ’s via MIDI, configurable buttons and knobs for activating processor FX units on software NOT IN THE MIXER to acomodate $$$PRICE$$$, keep the Auxiliary channels for Send and Recive external sources, an a LOT OF MIDI MAPPABLE BUTTONS AND EXTRA KNOBS..! That could be a DVS Mixer Killer, not a CDJ mixer one that pretend to ride the DVS DJ market..!
My 2 cents
Cheers !
I agree with the comments about the layout, plus it misses the main advantage of the Rane Sixty Eight in that unless it’s got dual USB interfaces how are you going to switch from 1 digital DJ to another during the night?
I really don’t care for the EQ layout.
iLive fx = seriously effin great piles of steamy hot awesomeness, for the love of god NI, PLEASE get this Traktor certified. I’m sure it will, after last years BPM it was pretty clear how much the guys from Xone love Traktor.
People crying about the EQ layout, don’t knock it until you try it.
Tho saying that, layout wise I’m not sure how scratch friendly those effects on buttons will be and I HATE headphone jack’s being on top of a mixer, other wise for me this mixer looks frekin epic!
[quote comment=”37727″]I guess basically what I’m saying is I wish this had been a Xone 92 + the fx section/soundcard :/ I don’t know why they keep insisting on taking stuff out of the tried and tested working and perfect system that is the 92 whenever they add something new (re: xone3d/4d, or even the dx)[/quote]
I hear ya.
The eqs not lining a-la-xone is a bad idea. & what’s up with all the horrible graphic design in their products of late. This sh*t is all-over-confusion too many lines and ’rounded’ boxes.
too bad 🙁
but cool none-the-less
they wont be installed in clubs…because most clubs already have djm-800s or rane ttm-57s installed. at least here in nyc
Like this hybrid but concerned it’s gonna be a bank breaker. Given that I have have everything I need albeit using more equipment then the price will be a key factor. Love A&H for sound quality so will give this serious consideration.
I kinda like what they did with the EQ/Filter section too, and the whole concept is quite appealing to begin with. My only gripe is the lack of LFO’s on the filters like on the 92, and the lack of 4-band EQ :/ Also, the filter and xfade toggles being that close together is definitely gonna cause issues in a club setting I have a feeling.
They also shoulda considered keeping the 92’s Master1/Master2 + Booth volume, and I can’t seem to find a xfade master off on there, which is just gonna exacerbate the problem with the xfade toggle placement. I really wish instead of that single mic channel, they’d have had the 92’s 2 aux channels. Definitely much nicer for a 4deck setup+maschine that way.
I guess basically what I’m saying is I wish this had been a Xone 92 + the fx section/soundcard :/ I don’t know why they keep insisting on taking stuff out of the tried and tested working and perfect system that is the 92 whenever they add something new (re: xone3d/4d, or even the dx)
This thing is innovative!
It’s almost like a modular (synth) setup but built around DJing. The multiple input routing – gold. The EQ / filter combo on every channel – gold. This is actually getting ahead of what you can do on a laptop+software, building on the advantages of having physical channels.
Wow.
Also stands a chance of being installed in a few booths (because it’s Allen & Heath).
I think I saw a spot without a knob or button on it but I am not sure.
This mixer has some cool ideas but a horrible layout. The EQ placement alone is a reason not to buy it. That said though, I am very curious how those effects sound.
I am waiting for a better certified mixer that I can use with Traktor Scratch Pro…
I’m puzzled as to why there’s only four bar loops?
I can’t see this being a game changer either…
I just doublecummed.
like allways DJTT 1 step FWD with new products info’s, looks an amazing equipment, price is never to high for a allen heath products, just fair compare quality, thanx DJTT for the info.
BRAVO! Day before the BPM.
reminds me my ex mixer Korg Zero 4.
btw, i dont think “controller djs wont need to lug around sound cards” – replugging will cause audio stop)
Looks great, but price will be big too I think 🙁
Didn’t excpect A&H to do something techy like this. Kinda looks like a Behringer Mixer… But don’t judge a book by it’s cover 🙂
I wonder how much they’ll charge.