Pioneer DJ DJM-400-K Limited Blue

When two decks come together directly at the mixer and samples or beat effects are to be added to the set without a computer, a clear signal path is essential. The blue 2-channel effects mixer with in-loop sampler Pioneer DJM-400 - Blue combines this workflow with inputs for CD players, turntables and microphones.

The sampler records a four-beat excerpt in time and stores it in one of five banks. The device detects the tempo of the track currently playing, adjusts loop playback to match and also allows overlapping recordings. This lets you trigger up to five samples during the mix; you can resynchronise playback as needed.

For processing the signal as it plays, there are six beat effects, an Auto BPM counter and a roll sampler. Effect times can be aligned with the detected BPM value. The three-band channel EQ for treble, midrange and bass has a kill function that lets you cut the frequency ranges completely.

Each of the two channels accepts CD signals and either phono or line level. The phono inputs are designed for MM cartridges. Two 6.3 mm sockets can be used either as separate microphone inputs or as a stereo AUX input; a switch selects their function. There is also a ground terminal for turntables.

You can connect a control cable to control compatible Pioneer CD players: pulling the channel or crossfader then starts playback. The adjustable crossfader curve can be tailored to your own mixing style. When Talk Over is enabled, the device lowers the level of the other sources by 20 dB as soon as a microphone signal is detected; peak level meters show the peak levels of the channels or the master.

Analogue input signals are digitised at 96 kHz and 24 bit; mixing is handled by a 32-bit DSP. Two pairs of unbalanced RCA outputs are provided for the master outputs, and the headphone connection is a 6.3 mm stereo jack. With its RCA inputs and the option to use the microphone inputs as AUX, the mixer suits compact setups with CD players, turntables and external line sources.