American Audio VMS4.1

If you want to use software decks and external players with a shared mixer, you need a suitable way to switch between digital and analogue sources. The American Audio VMS4.1 combines four MIDILOG channels with a standalone 4-channel analogue mixer and an integrated USB sound card. USB and analogue operation per channel make it suitable for DJ sets with a laptop as well as turntables or CD players.

Each MIDILOG channel can be switched between USB audio and an analogue input. Two analogue channels accept either phono or line signals; the other line inputs are designed for players with line-level output. The unit also works as an analogue mixer without a computer. All four channels have gain and high-, mid- and low-frequency controls. Four independently adjustable MIDILOG channels combine software control with connected sources.

Two USB audio modes are available for computer use. In 4-in/4-out mode, the sound card can route signals between the software and analogue channels, for example for software effects or timecode applications. The 2-in/8-out mode is designed for four software channels and also routes the master output back via USB for recordings. The integrated audio formats are 16 bit/44,1 kHz via USB and 24 bit/48 kHz in analogue mode. Two routing modes for different DJ setups therefore cover a range of signal paths.

For control, the unit has touch-sensitive jog wheels with a scratch function and 2000 dpi resolution, as well as two assignable 10-bit pitch touchpads. The integrated mousepad and track and deck selectors make navigation easier. The controls comprise 62 assignable MIDI buttons and switches, 50 illuminated MIDI knobs — 18 of which have blue-and-red dual illumination — four encoders, 34 adjustable controllers and five linear fader controllers. Dual MIDI assignments let you assign multiple functions to the controls.

The crossfader has an adjustable curve, reverse and channel assignment; the channel faders are also replaceable. The crossfader is optionally Innofader-compatible. A Q-Start function can remotely start compatible external American Audio CD or MP3 players. For monitoring, each MIDILOG channel has a switchable cue function, and there is a headphone connection with CUE/MIX control. Master and booth outputs feature L/R balance; the master output is balanced via XLR and also unbalanced via RCA. Two microphone inputs in XLR/jack combo format have illuminated on/off switches, as well as gain and 3-band EQ controls. A master VU meter with two rows of 12 LEDs each displays the level.

A soft-startup/turnoff circuit helps ensure quiet switching on and off. The replaceable faceplate is 1.6 mm thick; illuminated rubber buttons make it easier to find your way around in low light. Virtual DJ LE is included; the model is also compatible with TRAKTOR PRO and TRAKTOR 3. As a controller and standalone mixer, the VMS4.1 suits setups where you want to control and mix software decks and analogue players using a single unit.