Denon DJ X1800 Prime Review
With the new Prime series from Denon and the included X1800 club mixer, Denon aims to build on past successes. Thanks to a very clear and well-thought-out interface and a simple workflow, every DJ can get along with it right away. Upon closer inspection, it even comes with features that could solidify and establish its position in clubs and as a reliable live tool.
The first impression
The Prime rises impressively, crafted with high quality, with a fighting weight of 7 kilograms. The completely metal chassis is assembled in multiple parts and can impress with a matte black look. The depth of 45 centimeters leaves an imposing impression.
At first glance, one immediately finds oneself comfortable on the X1800. Everything is where you expect it to be, and the instruction manual can (for now) remain in the packaging.
Connections
You can tell the X1800 means business by the abundance of connections it offers, covering the complete spectrum that today's professional DJs expect. Accordingly, the four-channel mixer provides four inputs for phono and line each. Master output via XLR, monitoring, and send/return via 6.3 jack are among the obligatory must-haves.
It further demonstrates its professionalism with two RCA outputs, unbalanced and balanced, digital inputs and outputs, and a LAN hub with five link connections.
Under the hood works a self-developed software engine exchanging the necessary data for beatgrid-controlled effects. It can even communicate with MIDI devices to synchronize BPM numbers via Midi-Clock.
Also on board: 2 microphone inputs (XLR and XLR/6.3 combo jack) and USB inputs. With even 2 internal sound cards, the Prime rounds off the feature list. These deliver professionally with 24-bit and 96 kHz sampling rate and should meet all sound demands.
Interface
As previously mentioned, the mixer presents itself with a tidy and self-explanatory user interface. Any DJ who has ever operated such a device should immediately feel at ease. Also, instead of a colorful disco atmosphere, discreetly illuminated green LED technology is offered, emphasizing the professionalism of the device.
The damping of the rotary knobs is pleasantly done, and the rubber coatings provide enough grip, even when things get heated during use. The corresponding knobs offer detents at the 12 o'clock position. Very good.
Each channel, in addition to the gain knob, features three-band EQ with switchable curve, as well as a low-pass and high-pass filter, along with additional effect controls, optionally assignable with four sweep effects (Dub Echo, Noise, Wash Out, and Gate).
Through the channel selector at the top, not only can the analog and digital signal paths be selected, but also USB.
Regarding the channel faders, 4 in number, the curves are continuously adjustable. The FlexFade Crossfader offers a comfortable inherent mass. With it, rapid cut salvoes can be fired off thanks to very light glide resistance, a very sharp adjustable curve, and cut-in.
Effects
The Prime operates according to familiar traits: power switch, controls for intensity, resonance, timing, and routing. The effects can be timed precisely with the long Touchstrip strip with a total of 13 sensors.
The 2 precisely resolved OLED displays have proven to be very helpful, clearly displaying all important parameters and data. The mixer can offer twelve BPM-controlled effects that will all impress the discerning DJ with impeccable quality. The standard repertoire of Echo, Reverb, or Flanger is offered as well, along with Scratch and Beat-Break.
Made for Tough Use
The Prime is excellent for rough DJ road trips and is designed for it. The LED lighting is clear and distinct, allowing everything to be read precisely even in dark areas. Its generous and well-thought-out arrangement of knobs and switches prevents many quick errors, as there is enough space available.
The sound is powerful, with a silky transparency and meets the highest standards. The same goes for the effects section, which sounds excellent across the board.
With the X1800, Denon has scored a successful hit. While it may not revolutionize the DJ world, it makes no mistakes either and can successfully compete against the tough competition coming from the market leader. The Denon is consistently well-made, offers a very good, uncomplicated workflow, and can successfully hold its own in its price range. The rest is now up to the customers!