Rotary DJ Mixer Buying Guide
In the world of audio, it's not uncommon for users to seek out vintage devices. Some of us do this purely out of nostalgia, but many people can confirm that 50-year-old analog devices can provide a warmer, finer sound than today's digital counterparts. With the resurgence of vinyl and turntables, it's no wonder that other vintage devices are also finding their way back into DJ setups, often as an expression of purism or simply for their minimalist appearance.
The Old-School feeling is currently making a comeback in the form of Rotary Mixers. The concept of Rotary Mixers doesn't differ too much from that of modern DJ mixers. They all rely on traditional mixing techniques with CUE systems, EQ, and volume controls, and as the name suggests, they don't have upfaders but rather large volume control knobs per channel.
Typically, they feature a 2 or 3-band EQ, and they most likely don't have built-in digital effects, but they often have those appealing large isolator knobs that can create interesting sonic textures. Rotary Mixers aim to provide a unique feel and enable smoother and subtler transitions.
Rather than extensive functionality, Rotary Mixers usually prioritize sound quality and have a very classic design. Today's manufacturers offer some solid mixers in case you want to add a touch of vintage to your DJ setup. Let's take a look at some!
Don't be fooled by the affordable price, Omnitronic's TRM series mixers are a fantastic choice, especially for Rotary beginners.
They are built like tanks and have very solid metal control knobs with ALPS rotary potentiometers (Blue Velvet RK27). Not only do they offer excellent sound characteristics, but they also guarantee a long lifespan. Both the 2-channel and 4-channel versions feature a 2-band EQ, which might seem daunting for those heavily reliant on EQing, but the manufacturers have managed to find a sweet spot for the upper and lower frequency ranges, making mixing with them delightfully smooth.
To keep things even more purist, both the TRM 202 and TRM 402 rely solely on volume controls and have no TRIM adjustment per channel. This isn't unusual in Rotary Mixers, as in most cases, you won't be mixing with all volume controls at maximum, as many DJs would with standard upfaders. Levels are adjusted only with the volume controls, so it's sensible to leave some headroom while mixing, especially when switching between LINE and PHONO sources.
Both versions have PHONO inputs on every channel and a MIC input. Both mixers are 100% analog and offer very good sound quality, albeit not as crisp as their competitor, the Ecler WARM2, but still pleasantly warm. The isolator section allows for gentle coloration of the master channel's sound, as it can boost or completely eliminate the low/mid/high frequencies.
In addition to their creative rotary features, the TRM series mixers are designed to fit perfectly in any environment, from bedroom DJs to club use, as they have numerous outputs (balanced and unbalanced): 1x Booth (RCA), 1x Booth (XLR), 1x Master (RCA), 1x Master (XLR), 1x Record (RCA).
The only difference between the two mixers is the number of channels. So, if you're deciding between the 202 or the 402, you just need to know if you need 2 or 4 channels.
Pros:
- Robust build quality, high-quality potentiometers
- Many inputs/outputs meet club standards
- Unbeatable price-to-performance ratio
Cons:
- No TRIM control
- Only a 2-band EQ
Although Ecler has been out of business for over a decade, the company returned at the perfect time with the perfect product. With the new WARM2 rotary mixer, they focused on what they do best: flawless sound quality. In terms of design, it's very similar to the features of the NUO 2.0:
- 2+1 Channels: 2 channels with phono and line inputs featuring a 3-band EQ, TRIM control, and a line (RCA) / MIC input (6.3 Jack)
- Send/Return channel for connecting external effect devices
- It has balanced and unbalanced master outputs and an unbalanced booth output
- It has nearly the same size
Essentially, the WARM2 is somewhat of a rotary version of the NUO 2.0, with fantastic large isolator knobs and a sleeker design with wooden side panels. The "Alps Blue Velvet" potentiometers ensure a smooth mix, although the plastic knobs might not be as slick as those on Omnitronic TRM mixers. That doesn't mean they won't stand the test of time, as long-term NUO 2.0 users can confirm they last long, it's more a matter of comfort/feel that might or might not bother.
The sound quality definitely compensates for any issues one might have. Ecler mixers are among the best-sounding mixers in their lineup, many users claim they even surpass Allen & Heath Xone mixers.
The isolator is a true pleasure to operate and fits very well between the EQ and volume controls. We found it more convenient to use it this way rather than placing it on top of the mixer. It can definitely expand your performance capabilities, boosting or removing frequencies, dramatically shaping an acapella track, accentuating musical riffs, or creating a tremolo effect by quickly turning the knobs.
Additionally, at 18 cm wide, it's one of the narrowest mixers on the market. That's practical when you need to take it to gigs or when you need to fit it into a smaller battle setup.
Advantages:
- Premium analog sound
- Sleek design
- 3-band EQ
- FX Send/Return
- Third channel with LINE / MIC input
Disadvantages:
- Plastic knobs that have a little play
- Unbalanced booth output
- No option for 4 channels
While the TRM 202 and 402 were big successes, some users complained about missing features such as the 3-Band EQ, TRIM knob, filter; more or less things that are standard in DJ mixers nowadays. Although one of the main purposes of rotary mixers is to keep things minimalistic to achieve better sound quality, some DJs simply do not want to compromise on their workflow, and the TRM 422 is Omnitronic's answer to that.
The TRM 422 has all the features a DJ needs, including:
- 3-Band EQ
- TRIM knob for each channel
- Filter with resonance and sweep control
- 2 MIC channels with 2-Band EQ
- Send/Return and Master Insert
- Separate outputs for Timecode applications
- Booth EQ
- Crossfader
It's an absolute powerhouse that doesn't compromise. The build quality and sound quality are the same as the TRM 202 and 402. Although we liked the purist approach of the first two models without the TRIM knobs, during testing, we kept reaching for the TRIM knob.
The filter works similarly to the simpler Allen&Heath Xone mixers. You get a single filter that can be routed to each of the channels. This means you can't use different types of filters on separate channels (e.g., a low-pass on CH1 and a high-pass on CH2). We appreciated that the filter has resonance and sweep controls, and in combination with the isolator, some very cool sounds can be created. Additionally, an external effects unit can be connected via Send/Return or Master Insert, opening up endless possibilities for creative mixing and building tension.
We think the decision between the TRM 422 and its other competitors should be simple, because it depends on whether you prefer the more purist look and approach with minimal functionality or if you want the convenience of all traditional DJ functions.
Advantages:
- The maximum functionality one can expect from a fully analog mixer
- Same robust build quality as the TRM 202 and 402
- 3-Band EQ + TRIM knob
Disadvantages:
- Doesn't really fit the purist-minimalistic character of rotary mixers
The Hi-Level Production Mixers are referred to as analog audiophile reference audio mixers. The RPM6000 features a clear and ergonomic user interface and is primarily intended for fixed installations such as in broadcasting stations, recording studios, or other environments where a reliable and fantastic-sounding mixer is needed to connect to the PA system. For festivals or clubs where DJs have specific setup requirements, it's probably not suitable.
Thanks to its 6 channels, everything can be easily connected. Each channel has MIC and LINE inputs, but for turntables, you'll need an RIIA phono card. Everything else is perfectly positioned, like the 3-band EQ, the GAIN control, and the smooth volume control knobs. Additionally, there are two USB inputs across 2 channels for connecting digital players.
The RPM6000 is designed for durability. Due to automated manufacturing methods, there are significantly fewer failures, and it undergoes careful sound and quality testing before being finally assembled.
We recommend this mixer especially for fixed installations, where a stable, reliable mixer is needed that's easy for anyone to use without compromising on sound quality.
Advantages:
- Clean, clear user interface
- Audiophile sound quality
- Easy operation for anyone
- MIC inputs on each channel
Disadvantages:
- No direct phono inputs (turntables work only with RIIA phono cards)
- Suitable for DJs, but primarily intended for broadcast/studio use
SuperStereo mixers are built in the United Kingdom by Formula Sound, primarily known for their collaboration with Funktion One. With the SuperStereo label, they've introduced a new series of high-end rotary mixers that not only offer exceptional clarity in sound but also boast an appealing vintage design with analog VU meters, premium ALPS potentiometers, and a cool rotary crossfader.
The DN78, with its stylish black ribbed knobs, is primarily targeted at professional DJs in clubs and venues. It has a very boutique-like vintage aspect and can certainly stand out in any environment, such as bars, record stores, or any other place where a sophisticated appearance is valued, especially with a turntable setup.
The mixer features a tube stage that, using vacuum tubes, enhances the amplitude and power of a signal, adding additional warmth and depth to the sound. The 2-stage RIAA PHONO preamp ensures faithful full-range playback of vinyl.
The analog stereo VU meters provide a more precise indication of signal level compared to LED meters and also look very stylish. Additionally, it's equipped with a very powerful isolator with +8dB boost and total cut for 3 selected frequency ranges. The mixer has a 3-band EQ on both channels and an FX Send/Return, although, like the Gain controls, it's somewhat inconveniently placed on the front panel. This can also be a problem if you intend to house the mixer in a table, which is quite common with rotary mixers.
The DN78 also features a high-quality 32-bit/384kHz four-channel sound card, which we've rarely seen in rotary mixers since the discontinuation of the Rane MP2015.
In terms of price and quality, it's definitely in a different league compared to Omnitronic mixers, but there's a catch. Investing in such a mixer pays off only if the entire signal chain (from media to speakers) is of the highest quality.
So when purchasing the DN78, make sure you have high-quality media, preferably WAV/FLAC/AIFF, and not low-bitrate MP3 files. Additionally, there should be speakers with ample headroom to fully exploit the DN78's performance. You probably won't hear anything special with a pair of 5-inch monitors. Those who consider the entire signal chain will be overwhelmed by the fantastic sound of the mixer.
Advantages:
- Beautiful vintage finish
- High-quality ALPS potentiometers
- Incredibly clear sound
- Elegant analog VU meters
- Built-in 32-bit/384kHz sound card
- Rotary crossfader
Disadvantages:
- High-end even in the price range
- Gain and Send/Return controls are located on the front panel