Omnitronic TRM 422 Review

Rotary mixers offer a unique approach to DJing. Some of the main advantages of these mixers include: More precise volume control, sound coloring options with large isolator knobs, and typically, sound quality takes precedence over extensive functionality - most devices have a purely analog signal path and, thanks to their minimalist vintage design, they usually look stylish.

First Impression

The new Omnitronic TRM 422 mixer follows the basic line of the successful predecessor models TRM 202 and TRM 402, with some useful improvements to reach an even broader audience.

It has the same robust metal construction as its predecessors, everything feels of high quality and stable. The Blue Velvet RK27 potentiometers are on point, feel very solid, and have a nice vintage design. Everything about this mixer seems to have been built to last for eternity.

EQ, Filter

The TRM 422 is currently the largest rotary mixer from Omnitronic. One of the few criticisms of the TRM 202 and TRM 402 was that with only a 2-band EQ on each channel and the isolator knobs, there were limited sound-shaping options during mixing. The TRM 422 solves this problem not only with a 3-band kill-cut EQ on each of the 4 channels but also with a filter section featuring high-pass, band-pass, low-pass, resonance, and sweep controls for creative mixes.

However, there is a limitation that works similarly to Allen & Heath Xone mixers (up to the 96er): whenever you activate the filter on a channel, there is an audible pop. And honestly, this is a bit rougher than with the Xone mixers. It depends on your mixing style whether you find this disturbing or not, but you should be aware of it if you're one of those who constantly switch the filter on and off.

However, we can confirm that the filter, due to its analog construction, sounds excellent.

How Does It Sound?

The sound is exactly the same as with the TRM 402. You can't expect the extreme purity of the Rane MP2015, but at this price, we certainly can't complain about the sound quality. Since rotary mixers are primarily aimed at vintage lovers, it's no wonder that it's equipped with high-quality phono preamps, as many vinyl DJs will surely consider purchasing the TRM 442. Also, the ground clamp on each channel strongly indicates the target audience.

Another new feature is the TRIM control on each channel. With the previous models, we had to rely solely on the volume controls to adjust the levels in the individual channels. While the previous version with its rather puristic approach certainly had its charm, we feel more comfortable with the additional TRIM controls.

Unfortunately, there's still no VU meter for each channel, but there's a 16-digit stereo LED level indicator that can be switched between master and booth output, as well as one for the PFL area (CUE). Additionally, it features a PFL/master mix control and a cue mix/split option.

Another wonderful new feature is the 2-band EQ on the booth output, because after many hours of DJing, your ears can suffer from all the high frequencies or bass distortion, so you can make the sound more pleasant this way.

The absence of a crossfader in the previous models caused disappointment among potential buyers. Fortunately, the TRM 422 has a fully assignable VCA crossfader with adjustable curve.

Connectivity Options

The I/O section of this mixer is very rich.

It not only offers 4 LINE and 4 PHONO inputs, but also 4 direct outputs for TIMECODE applications. MASTER and BOOTH have XLR and RCA outputs, just like the previous versions.

There are also 2 FX Send/Return paths: one via RCA SEND/RETURN I/O and one MASTER INSERT I/O for connecting devices like the Pioneer DJ RMX 1000.

The connection section is rounded off with 2 microphone input channels with gain control, 2-band EQ, and ON AIR switch.

To make the device truly vintage, it can be mounted in a 483mm rack; mounting brackets are included. At www.omniwoodkit.com, you can also buy some nice matching wooden kits to make your DJ booth even more personal and appealing.

Our Impression

The TRM 422 is a fantastic choice for beginners in the rotary field, as it is unrivaled in this price range; not many mixers can compete with its range of features. It is aimed at DJs who simply want to get started with Rotary Mixing and don't necessarily want to spend a fortune on very expensive models like Condesa, E&S, or Mastersounds - because for those, you'd have to double or even triple your budget.

As far as sound quality is concerned, high-end alternatives offer a more flawless sound, but you're unlikely to notice that in a home studio.

Even without the fancy analog VU meters and wooden trimmings, it's still a wonderful, solid device that is durable and has an elegant design.

The device is a bargain if you want to try Rotary Mixing and don't want to miss out on the additional 2 channels and all the standard DJ features like the filter, 3-band EQ, crossfader, and gain controls.