Korg KM-402

Four channels and an integrated touchpad make direct access to KAOSS effects on the mixer possible: the Korg Kaoss KM 402 combines classic DJ mixing with a touch-controlled effects section. You select one of the 100 effects and control its parameters simultaneously along the pad’s X and Y axes.

Use the KAOSS buttons to assign the effects section to the desired channels. If you hold a button down for about two seconds, the effect is restricted to that channel. Use the Dry/Wet control to adjust the effect level; the Hold function keeps the last pad position you touched, even after you lift your finger from the pad. The three Program Memory buttons recall saved effect programmes and, when Hold is active, the corresponding pad position.

For time-based effects, you can tap in the tempo using the Tap button and then adjust the displayed BPM value. The FX Release function adds a delay tail synchronised to the set tempo when you release the pad, which gradually fades out. This keeps the effect audible when you end it or change programmes.

The channels have HI, MID and LOW controls, as well as six selectable EQ characteristics: KM-Q, Round-Q, Boost, Slamming, Isolator and Hyped. This lets you tailor the sound; the Isolator can fully attenuate individual frequency bands. You can adjust the Crossfader curve from smooth to switch-like for transitions between assigned channels. The Crossfader’s transition points are also adjustable.

Each channel has a fader, a Trim control and an input selector. The CH-Select buttons assign channels to Crossfader side A or B; unassigned channels do not pass through the Crossfader. The cue monitoring function lets you listen to the Cue bus and the master signal through the headphones and adjust their balance. The master output level and left-right balance can be adjusted separately.

Connections for line and phono sources, a microphone input, and master, booth and headphone outputs cover the basic integration into a DJ setup. The booth output carries the same signal as the master output, but is independent of the Master Level control. A ground terminal is provided for turntables; when connecting to the phono inputs, their ground wires must be connected there. A JackGuard protects the connection area.

The KM 402 is suited to DJ setups where you want to combine four channels with integrated effects control and operate effects directly while mixing. The key considerations are the analogue connections you need, the six EQ types and the adjustable Crossfader curve.