Great review Mojaxx! It's a bit like how people describe Italian exotic sports cars - it's expensive, exclusive, quirky, forces you to do things in a slightly different way and ultimately when your mates try to drive it they'll screw up and wonder what you see in it until they have it for a weekend and then wonder how they've ever lived without one. I've owned my DB4 (along with XOne:42s, DJM 800/850s/900s/2000s) for 2 years and it's my sentimental favourite and has only left the house for two gigs before getting a permanent install into my lounge room booth. The pre-master headphone cue is one feature that I wish Pioneer would copy, I still don't get how people can enjoying split-cue mixing the Pio way if you're in a club that has a poorly calibrated single chain! There's a few things I'd do differently if I had to design the V2.0 model and agree with a lot of your suggestions, I've fitted an Innofader for many of the reasons you outlined (even for simple stabs the stock one is way too laggy) and while I think the K1/2 are great controllers unless they create an aluminium cradle like the NI X1, it's a shitty fit into the booth. Finally, a word of warning to those who need Mic inputs, there's only ONE - caught me out at a gig once!
Absolutely love this mixer, used it for 2 years at one of my residencies a while back. The only problem is, once you have got use to it, all other mixers are a bit of a let down ! Ended up getting myself a DB2, a lot of the same functions as the DB4 but less intimidating to look at, and only half the price. Great review by the way ; )
NC Preedy can i ask is the db2 any good? I've only just started out in building a mobile dj set up and I'm wondering whether my reloop rmx80 mixer is good enough after seeing some of the allen and heath kit. not sure i can afford a db4 but I'd be gutted if i bought a db2 and should have gone for the db4? also curious about denons x1700 to be honest. unfortunately i don't know enough people who can really give me any advice would be grateful for the help. p.s using the mixer with 2 denon sc2900s and a msi laptop for my music library. Thanks again for reading the comment.
Hi Rich, If you really want to change mixers, you need to try them out, as its a lot of money for something you will have to live with for a while. I only use A&H mixers if I can as the sound quality is a lot better than other makes. And the effects on the DB mixers are really clean sounding, nothing like the pioneer effects. In that price range your looking at ... A&H Xone DB2 - My favourite mixer to date ;) A&H Xone PX5 - not used it yet ! but looks to be very nice. Denon X1800 Prime - Not used it yet ! But looks to be awesome. Pioneer DJM 850/900 - Well built, FX sound very cheesy ! Always feel a little disappointed when I have to use one at a gig ! I had a pair of Denon sc2900s for about a year, bought them because I didn't want to pay for over priced pioneer decks. Nice decks, got on well with them, my friend has them now and loves them. Again, you need to think before you buy ! The reason I use the DB2 is I play House and Techno, so the effects are awesome, and so is the sound quality. I have used all the pioneer mixers over the years, and never really thought they were that great, but most people do seem to like them and you will see them installed in most venues. Do as much research as possible on the kit you want. Go to a store and talk to the people who run it, and ask them what they think. Tell them what style of music you play, so they can give you the best information. If your into scratching, don't get a Xone mixer, they aren't really designed for that style of playing.
NC Preedy thanks for the reassurance about the decks mate i was wondering if i made a bad choice but i can't justify the cost of the pioneer nexus cdjs they're insanely expensive and I've been really happy with them so far. I'd like to see some mixers the reloop rmx80 mixer is good, haven't noticed any bad sound. i did feel like the allen and heath mixer i saw at the weekend was more professional looking and sounded much more 'punchy' although the guy was using qsc 10 inch tops and a bass speaker whilst i own mackie 15 thumps. i actually thought his bass cab overwhelmed his tops and the sound was too bass heavy... but i admired his mixer :) i really appreciate the response I'm definitely going to try and get to a shop that's got a db2 on display loving the look of it and I'm hearing great things about allen and heath. thanks again man for taking the time to reply :)
Just when I pulled the trigger, the vendor cancelled my purchase because they were out of stock and a week later A&H discontinued it. Hope they make an update version
So, 5 months ago I purchased a A&H Xone DB4 mixer. Now, the power supply seems to be broken and A&H responds with a repair cost of 180 Euros stating the power supply unit isn’t covered in the Warranty clauses. The thing is that the mixer never left my house since I’m a beginner DJ and don’t go mobile for gigs.. Also, I don’t live in a cabin in the woods using some kind of electrical generator. So A&H, you can wave your warranty clauses as hard as you want; from a client perspective I feel that I’m not treated fairly !
i am looking to get replacement knobs for the DB4 as per your review as you are right the knobs become invisible in low light. My problem is the Effects wet dry knob are screwed on which is the 4 main knobs i wanted to change and I'm going for the Rotary mix set up any clues to where i can get theses knobs from. Thanks dude excellent review.
+MojaxxVDJ Agree - I know of a few DJs who've used Hexfiend on OS X to "adjust" TSP to enable the DB4, i certainly would never do that and it obviously doesn't work and would be a terrible idea and I would not recommend it at all. :-) (having said that, a recent release of TSP broke it and it was only re-enabled recently, so not something you can rely on compared with a DJM900 for example)
I’m really thinking about purchasing either the db4 or the db2 mixer for my edm sets in my bedroom..!! The Tri-Mode EQ is AMAZING..!! I LOVE my Pioneer DJM T1 mixer to DEATH and it seems that no software supports the mixer anymore…. I downloaded all drivers and firmware, but it doesn’t work as a midi controlled mixer for Traktor DJ or RekordBox…. So I’m thinking about Using Serato For the controller for the time being…. BUT, I WANT a PRO mixer for my setup and I want either the DB4 or the DB2..!! If you have an opinion on what mixer I should get, I’d love to hear your opinion Mojaxx..!!
great video... question i am a house DJ, among a whole lot out there and looking to be different... tried all the different software but like Traktor for the creativity i know this is a old video and the 96 is the new mixer.... Which one would you recommend for a DJ that wants to use remix decks and want to up their game
Hi Mojaxx, great review as always. Quick question I was hoping you could answer or in fact any opinions from other commentators. I'm in a bit of a pickle! I'm buying a new mixer and am torn between the Xone DB4 and the Denon x1800. I mostly use serato DVS and vinyl but open to media players in the future. I'm also looking to perhaps start some production with some midi drums/synths etc in the future so looking to future proof my choice in mixer. I currently have the A&H Xone 43c What I like about the Denon is the on board midi I/O at the back with midi clocking, also love the integration with the SC5000 players that might be a future purchase. As a mixer it will do everything I need. As for the DB4, it is MIDI through the USB but you need that hooked up to a computer, if im using analogue (such as the new roland boutique range) I cant hook them directly to the mixer, no biggy but it would be a nice function to have. That said, the DB4 is a beast, and its A&H which I love. What would you choose in my situation?
Great video! Thinking of buying one of these and using as a midi controller for Traktor Pro 2 in external mixer mode. Would I need any other kit for the set up or would I be good to go? Bit of a novice with modern set ups, just using Traktor with a controller at the moment.
Hi Mo ;) I really like your great reviews! Thank for your work....may I ask you one question which one would you go with when you have to choose the PX5 or the DB4 ? Thank and cheers Chris
Jeez, why even put a crossfader on it then? I rock with this thing's baby brother the Xone:23C. I love that thing though the crossfader was absolutely unusable. I subbed in the Xone innofader and now I'm good. Having the onboard soundcard is priceless. I can even do gigs with software in external mode using keyboard shortcuts for play/stop and hotcue.
Such a great mixer, but why on earth split cue doesn't have its own dedicated button? Big area right above the headphone section! Or at least when having two selected have them switch to stereo mode even if split is selected in the menu. No one keeps split always on. Definitely needs a firmware update.
Halo dj city or ewerione.. one cuestion i hawe.. can i play db 4 yust with 2 turentable- analog or i need native, serato program- digital.. i want use this mixer yust for winil witout noting.. is posible this?
Great review. Have this mixer for 3 years and still haven't mastered it fully. It is phenomenal to use and although I've toyed changing due to software update issues I could never do it.. TSP certification is a real shame, but I just stopped using TSP in the end! Would love to see your full on extended review. I haven't seen a review that goes into too much detail and haven't see any that look at the latest firmware update. Any chance?
Hi sir , Do you notice any difference between DB4 made in UK and made in China ??? At this point it is almost impossible to get UK version ... Shops sell only Chinese :/ For me it is unacceptable to pay such money for a mixer of this class produced in China . Thanks . . .
I heard that there was some minor built quality issues with the Chinese ones. I do have an UK built unit for a few years now and its a tank, not had a problem with it once!
bought this mixer second hands a few months ago, really love it, is awesome. Yet like you mentioned its easy to drown in the many options. Effects are out of this world, very subtle and great for techno and house..The sound quality is second to none, i am curious if the new nxs2 is getting closer to is. Only problem i have that it wont play with ableton when i use it as a soundcard, anybody out there using this in a similar way ?
I own a db4 also..sound quality is good, but i heard that the nxs2 is on a whole other level. The nxs2 seems to sound way better then the Xone92, actually closer to the mp2015.
you heard but did you tried ??? I owned Xone 92 , NXS2 and now i have DB4 and I can say that NXS2 was play WORST !!! not even close to Xone series ... Even try to compare NXS2 to MP2015 ???Lol You must be Pioneer fan boy :P
What is more suitable for weddings and events and techno smallness at the Pioneer DJM 900 NXS2 db 4 Help me find out what is better and more reliable and powerful and interesting
If ur using Traktor DVS then PX5 would be better as its certified. The DB4 is Serato ready, but works also with Traktor Pro 2. They both are very good! Cant go wrong with A&H really!
Lovely mixer but so complicated - I have the 92, lacks special effects so thinking the px5 ? I have a controller that has a pioneer 900 but I can’t deal with the Poor quality when sliding - cuts off like it’s years old and sounds shoddy - anyone help ?
Pioneer basicly is the best digital enginered Mixer ever..... And they have thousand of recpacement parts available... Allen & heat is a pain in the ass for maintenance
this new 92 / 42 and the db series are the most crap mixers ever made by allen & heath the main power suplly sucks....they only have 2 L7815 / L7915 - 15V dc output for the entire boards......plus....all the channel boads sucks .....have thousands of smd components....thousands of micro controllers.....all smd........wich means = huge problem of reliability.... MY ADVISE - STAY AWAY OF ANY NEW ALLEN & HEATH MIXERS.... IF YOU DO LIKE DIGITAL MIXERS - GO PIONEERS..... IF YOU LIKE ANALOG MIXERS - GO WITH OLDER GUYS - RANE, VESTAX, ECLER, VERMONA / STANTON.....
![ละลาย (LALALYE) - DAOU PITTAYA ต้าห์อู๋ พิทยา [OFFICIAL MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/wo6r9TgausI/mqdefault.jpg)
Great review Mojaxx! It's a bit like how people describe Italian exotic sports cars - it's expensive, exclusive, quirky, forces you to do things in a slightly different way and ultimately when your mates try to drive it they'll screw up and wonder what you see in it until they have it for a weekend and then wonder how they've ever lived without one.
I've owned my DB4 (along with XOne:42s, DJM 800/850s/900s/2000s) for 2 years and it's my sentimental favourite and has only left the house for two gigs before getting a permanent install into my lounge room booth. The pre-master headphone cue is one feature that I wish Pioneer would copy, I still don't get how people can enjoying split-cue mixing the Pio way if you're in a club that has a poorly calibrated single chain!
There's a few things I'd do differently if I had to design the V2.0 model and agree with a lot of your suggestions, I've fitted an Innofader for many of the reasons you outlined (even for simple stabs the stock one is way too laggy) and while I think the K1/2 are great controllers unless they create an aluminium cradle like the NI X1, it's a shitty fit into the booth. Finally, a word of warning to those who need Mic inputs, there's only ONE - caught me out at a gig once!
+Paul Muller Thanks for giving us an owner's perspective, Paul! I like the exotic sports car analogy. Very true.
Absolutely love this mixer, used it for 2 years at one of my residencies a while back. The only problem is, once you have got use to it, all other mixers are a bit of a let down ! Ended up getting myself a DB2, a lot of the same functions as the DB4 but less intimidating to look at, and only half the price. Great review by the way ; )
NC Preedy can i ask is the db2 any good? I've only just started out in building a mobile dj set up and I'm wondering whether my reloop rmx80 mixer is good enough after seeing some of the allen and heath kit. not sure i can afford a db4 but I'd be gutted if i bought a db2 and should have gone for the db4? also curious about denons x1700 to be honest. unfortunately i don't know enough people who can really give me any advice would be grateful for the help. p.s using the mixer with 2 denon sc2900s and a msi laptop for my music library. Thanks again for reading the comment.
Hi Rich, If you really want to change mixers, you need to try them out, as its a lot of money for something you will have to live with for a while. I only use A&H mixers if I can as the sound quality is a lot better than other makes. And the effects on the DB mixers are really clean sounding, nothing like the pioneer effects.
In that price range your looking at ...
A&H Xone DB2 - My favourite mixer to date ;)
A&H Xone PX5 - not used it yet ! but looks to be very nice.
Denon X1800 Prime - Not used it yet ! But looks to be awesome.
Pioneer DJM 850/900 - Well built, FX sound very cheesy ! Always feel a little disappointed when I have to use one at a gig !
I had a pair of Denon sc2900s for about a year, bought them because I didn't want to pay for over priced pioneer decks. Nice decks, got on well with them, my friend has them now and loves them.
Again, you need to think before you buy ! The reason I use the DB2 is I play House and Techno, so the effects are awesome, and so is the sound quality. I have used all the pioneer mixers over the years, and never really thought they were that great, but most people do seem to like them and you will see them installed in most venues.
Do as much research as possible on the kit you want. Go to a store and talk to the people who run it, and ask them what they think. Tell them what style of music you play, so they can give you the best information. If your into scratching, don't get a Xone mixer, they aren't really designed for that style of playing.
NC Preedy thanks for the reassurance about the decks mate i was wondering if i made a bad choice but i can't justify the cost of the pioneer nexus cdjs they're insanely expensive and I've been really happy with them so far.
I'd like to see some mixers the reloop rmx80 mixer is good, haven't noticed any bad sound. i did feel like the allen and heath mixer i saw at the weekend was more professional looking and sounded much more 'punchy' although the guy was using qsc 10 inch tops and a bass speaker whilst i own mackie 15 thumps. i actually thought his bass cab overwhelmed his tops and the sound was too bass heavy...
but i admired his mixer :)
i really appreciate the response I'm definitely going to try and get to a shop that's got a db2 on display loving the look of it and I'm hearing great things about allen and heath.
thanks again man for taking the time to reply :)
YESSSS! So happy to see you reviewing this, love your reviews! Can you do the DB2 as well?
Mojaxx everytime I watch a review: "There's one group of DJs this won't work for. That is open format, crossfader..."
Another good review. Great mixer for a club setting. I can see it will take weeks to get the setting down pack for use.
Only thing stopping me from buying this is that the age leads me to believe that Allen & Heath will release a updated/Mk2 version.
Or they just discontinue...
Possibly but with the mixer the layout is solid so the updating it could just be done through firmware instead of designing a whole new model.
I think this kinda is the mk2 version of the db2
Just when I pulled the trigger, the vendor cancelled my purchase because they were out of stock and a week later A&H discontinued it. Hope they make an update version
Great review as always Mojaxx!
Getting mine today
Can’t wait
Looks pretty badass. I know Digweed is a big user of the DB4
Hi. Does it has 4 separate bpm counter for 4 channels?? Tks
That orange looks so good wow
So, 5 months ago I purchased a A&H Xone DB4 mixer. Now, the power supply seems to be broken and A&H responds with a repair cost of 180 Euros stating the power supply unit isn’t covered in the Warranty clauses. The thing is that the mixer never left my house since I’m a beginner DJ and don’t go mobile for gigs.. Also, I don’t live in a cabin in the woods using some kind of electrical generator. So A&H, you can wave your warranty clauses as hard as you want; from a client perspective I feel that I’m not treated fairly !
Love the timing on this haha
They use plastic pots to keep down Electronic noise. At least that’s what I was told.
now its a traktor scratch certified mixer!!
Incredible mixer. Solid review.
my all time favorite mixer.... awesome!!!!!
i am looking to get replacement knobs for the DB4 as per your review as you are right the knobs become invisible in low light.
My problem is the Effects wet dry knob are screwed on which is the 4 main knobs i wanted to change and I'm going for the Rotary mix set up any clues to where i can get theses knobs from.
Thanks dude excellent review.
Does decksaver make a cover for the DB4 ? What model in no fader would fit?
great review would love to get my hands on this mixer wish it was traktor scratch certified though :(
The fact it works perfectly with Serato DJ really highlights that the only reason it doesn't work with TSP is politics/money. Such a pity!
+MojaxxVDJ Agree - I know of a few DJs who've used Hexfiend on OS X to "adjust" TSP to enable the DB4, i certainly would never do that and it obviously doesn't work and would be a terrible idea and I would not recommend it at all. :-)
(having said that, a recent release of TSP broke it and it was only re-enabled recently, so not something you can rely on compared with a DJM900 for example)
Where do I buy those replacement orange knobs and faders
@mojaxx ,can db4 certified with traktor software ?
thanks
I’m really thinking about purchasing either the db4 or the db2 mixer for my edm sets in my bedroom..!! The Tri-Mode EQ is AMAZING..!! I LOVE my Pioneer DJM T1 mixer to DEATH and it seems that no software supports the mixer anymore…. I downloaded all drivers and firmware, but it doesn’t work as a midi controlled mixer for Traktor DJ or RekordBox…. So I’m thinking about Using Serato For the controller for the time being…. BUT, I WANT a PRO mixer for my setup and I want either the DB4 or the DB2..!! If you have an opinion on what mixer I should get, I’d love to hear your opinion Mojaxx..!!
Can't believe I haven't noticed this mixer before
does anyone know the track in the backgrond at around 5-6 minutes??
great video... question i am a house DJ, among a whole lot out there and looking to be different... tried all the different software but like Traktor for the creativity i know this is a old video and the 96 is the new mixer.... Which one would you recommend for a DJ that wants to use remix decks and want to up their game
Nexus 900mk2
What a beast of a mixer
Great review, thanks.
Hi Mojaxx, great review as always. Quick question I was hoping you could answer or in fact any opinions from other commentators. I'm in a bit of a pickle! I'm buying a new mixer and am torn between the Xone DB4 and the Denon x1800. I mostly use serato DVS and vinyl but open to media players in the future. I'm also looking to perhaps start some production with some midi drums/synths etc in the future so looking to future proof my choice in mixer. I currently have the A&H Xone 43c
What I like about the Denon is the on board midi I/O at the back with midi clocking, also love the integration with the SC5000 players that might be a future purchase. As a mixer it will do everything I need.
As for the DB4, it is MIDI through the USB but you need that hooked up to a computer, if im using analogue (such as the new roland boutique range) I cant hook them directly to the mixer, no biggy but it would be a nice function to have. That said, the DB4 is a beast, and its A&H which I love.
What would you choose in my situation?
Best mixer in the world
Great video! Thinking of buying one of these and using as a midi controller for Traktor Pro 2 in external mixer mode. Would I need any other kit for the set up or would I be good to go? Bit of a novice with modern set ups, just using Traktor with a controller at the moment.
What kind of color caps are those?
Hi Mo ;) I really like your great reviews! Thank for your work....may I ask you one question which one would you go with when you have to choose the PX5 or the DB4 ? Thank and cheers Chris
Jeez, why even put a crossfader on it then? I rock with this thing's baby brother the Xone:23C. I love that thing though the crossfader was absolutely unusable. I subbed in the Xone innofader and now I'm good. Having the onboard soundcard is priceless. I can even do gigs with software in external mode using keyboard shortcuts for play/stop and hotcue.
Looks like a great mixer .
Such a great mixer, but why on earth split cue doesn't have its own dedicated button? Big area right above the headphone section! Or at least when having two selected have them switch to stereo mode even if split is selected in the menu. No one keeps split always on. Definitely needs a firmware update.
Love loud knob colors, helps so much in dark clubs
Mac Joseph what caps are those
Djtechtools
I cannot figure out which?
Phil Gaitan check out DJtechtools. They have custom knobs
coolorcaps.com
loop effect?
hi. how is it compared with pioneer djm2000 nxs in terms of sound quality? thanks.
great job as always not for me but definitely a beast!
You can dial in the bpm manually check out Dave Mech secrets revealed video he explains how
Halo dj city or ewerione.. one cuestion i hawe.. can i play db 4 yust with 2 turentable- analog or i need native, serato program- digital.. i want use this mixer yust for winil witout noting.. is posible this?
yeah, of course it's possible ;) You can connect anything you like
Is the db4 working with the denon sc5000?
Great review. Have this mixer for 3 years and still haven't mastered it fully. It is phenomenal to use and although I've toyed changing due to software update issues I could never do it.. TSP certification is a real shame, but I just stopped using TSP in the end! Would love to see your full on extended review. I haven't seen a review that goes into too much detail and haven't see any that look at the latest firmware update. Any chance?
There is a nice workaround available
emaceratus what is this workaround you talk about? Very curious.
This or the new Xone96??
Hi sir ,
Do you notice any difference between DB4 made in UK and made in China ??? At this point it is almost impossible to get UK version ... Shops sell only Chinese :/ For me it is unacceptable to pay such money for a mixer of this class produced in China .
Thanks . . .
I heard that there was some minor built quality issues with the Chinese ones. I do have an UK built unit for a few years now and its a tank, not had a problem with it once!
Any links to those technics ? ALBINO TECHNICs
Who maked this in your hair?
Great content
Can anyone tell me can you hook up 3 analogue turntables to it? Just to play vinyl
just do it!
How can I get orange knob?
I always liked the idea of this mixer but it never really took off it was more like learning a sampler or electronic instrument
Only about 2% of DJs could handle using this mixer.
Where I can get caps like these!?
They're by Coolor Caps.
Thank you :)
Djm a9 or DB4?
bought this mixer second hands a few months ago, really love it, is awesome. Yet like you mentioned its easy to drown in the many options. Effects are out of this world, very subtle and great for techno and house..The sound quality is second to none, i am curious if the new nxs2 is getting closer to is. Only problem i have that it wont play with ableton when i use it as a soundcard, anybody out there using this in a similar way ?
I own a db4 also..sound quality is good, but i heard that the nxs2 is on a whole other level. The nxs2 seems to sound way better then the Xone92, actually closer to the mp2015.
you heard but did you tried ??? I owned Xone 92 , NXS2 and now i have DB4 and I can say that NXS2 was play WORST !!! not even close to Xone series ... Even try to compare NXS2 to MP2015 ???Lol You must be Pioneer fan boy :P
What is more suitable for weddings and events and techno smallness at the Pioneer DJM 900 NXS2
db 4 Help me find out what is better and more reliable and powerful and interesting
Just caught your "patchy" joke.
DB4 or the PX5 @Mojaxx ?
If ur using Traktor DVS then PX5 would be better as its certified. The DB4 is Serato ready, but works also with Traktor Pro 2. They both are very good! Cant go wrong with A&H really!
Cheers Jay, I ended up going with the PX5
how you been doing with the PX5? I want to buy it but I´ve heard is not very durable however I feel is the perfect match for techno djs
Lovely mixer but so complicated - I have the 92, lacks special effects so thinking the px5 ? I have a controller that has a pioneer 900 but I can’t deal with the Poor quality when sliding - cuts off like it’s years old and sounds shoddy - anyone help ?
I did it's the wrong config from mojacks
Tech tools doesn't have those pods
Db4 Made in uk or Made in China?
Can anybody tell me how you'd search/skip through your track with this mixer?
1000 on eBay
This was very bad mixer
Pioneer basicly is the best digital enginered Mixer ever.....
And they have thousand of recpacement parts available...
Allen & heat is a pain in the ass for maintenance
yu are right
this new 92 / 42 and the db series are the most crap mixers ever made by allen & heath the main power suplly sucks....they only have 2 L7815 / L7915 - 15V dc output for the entire boards......plus....all the channel boads sucks .....have thousands of smd components....thousands of micro controllers.....all smd........wich means = huge problem of reliability.... MY ADVISE - STAY AWAY OF ANY NEW ALLEN & HEATH MIXERS.... IF YOU DO LIKE DIGITAL MIXERS - GO PIONEERS..... IF YOU LIKE ANALOG MIXERS - GO WITH OLDER GUYS - RANE, VESTAX, ECLER, VERMONA / STANTON.....
Great review as always Mojaxx!