AlphaTheta OMNIS-DUO in Review

The AlphaTheta OMNIS-DUO marks an exciting addition to the world of DJ controllers. As the first product to bear the AlphaTheta name, it enters a market niche that has primarily been occupied by Denon DJ's Prime Go and Numark's Mixstream Pro.

This controller represents a significant development as it could be of interest to both ambitious hobby DJs and professionals. With its portable, battery-powered all-in-one construction, the OMNIS-DUO promises to give DJs the freedom to bring their music to life in almost any location. In this review, we will take a closer look at what this device has to offer, how it compares to its competitors, and who this DJ controller system is particularly suitable for.

First Impressions - Appearance and Feel

The design of the AlphaTheta OMNIS-DUO immediately catches the eye. The color scheme in "Slate Indigo," inspired by the versatility of denim fabric, gives the device a unique and striking appearance. This choice underscores the intention to create a device that is both stylish and functional. Beyond the color, the device features a minimalistic layout of controls. The deliberate decision to avoid cluttered labeling and markings makes the controller less intimidating and encourages intuitive operation.

It's also interesting to note that AlphaTheta consciously distances itself from the typical Pioneer DJ aesthetics. This is evident, among other things, by the absence of Pioneer DJ branding. Instead, they opt for a design characterized by clean lines and rounded corners. This could be a deliberate choice to differentiate themselves from established competitors and appeal to a new target audience.

Also notable are the design decisions regarding the controls. The use of flatter buttons for the FX On/Off control and the distinctively rounded corners of the channel and crossfaders demonstrate the intention to prioritize aesthetics over traditional design norms. Although these changes may initially appear as purely stylistic choices, they could also have practical implications for operation and tactile feedback during mixing.

The design of the OMNIS-DUO seems to aim to create a bridge between appealing aesthetics and functional usability, thus appealing to a broader range of DJs, especially younger and less tech-savvy users.

Technical Specifications and Features

When it comes to the technical specifications of the AlphaTheta OMNIS-DUO, several key elements make it a remarkable device in its segment. First and foremost, the hardware and build quality are noteworthy. The controller presents itself as robust and well-constructed, indicating long-term durability and reliability - a crucial factor for DJs who depend on the longevity and resilience of their equipment.

A central feature of the OMNIS-DUO is its battery and its performance. With a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery, the manufacturer promises an impressive playing time of up to 5 hours. This is particularly advantageous for DJs who want to perform in locations without power sources, such as beach parties or outdoor events. In practical testing, it has been found that this figure was somewhat optimistic. Under real conditions, with full utilization of features and at higher volumes, the battery life tends to be closer to approximately 4.5 hours.

The ability to connect the controller to a power bank via a USB Type-C port further extends this flexibility. The Eco-Mode feature, which extends battery life, is a meaningful addition for longer sessions. It reduces the brightness of the display and disconnects unnecessary connections like WiFi, resulting in runtimes of up to 8 hours.

In terms of connectivity options and inputs, the OMNIS-DUO offers a good selection. With two microphone inputs (XLR and 6.35mm combo jack for microphone 1, and another 6.35mm jack input for microphone 2) and two master outputs (XLR and RCA), the controller is well-equipped to connect to larger PA systems. Of note is the option to use the RCA outputs as a booth output, providing DJs with more flexibility in sound output.

You can find all the detailed technical specifications in the overview below:

• Frequency Range: 20 - 20,000 Hz.
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (S/N Ratio): 112 dB (USB, SD)
• Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): <0.003% (USB, SD)
• Battery Capacity: 47.52 Wh (built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery)
• Playback Time: Approximately 5 hours
• Charging Time: Approximately 3 hours
• Inputs:
  • 2x MIC (1 x XLR & 1 x 6.3 mm TRS jack | 1 x 6.3 mm TRS jack)
    1x LINE (Bluetooth)
• Outputs:
  • 1x MASTER (XLR)
  • 1x MASTER (RCA)
  • 1x MASTER (Bluetooth)
  • 1x BOOTH (combined with RCA output)
  • 2x HEADPHONE-MONITOR (6.3 mm stereo jack | 3.5 mm mini-stereo jack)
• USB Connections:
  • 1x USB-A for data storage
  • 1x SD card
  • 1x USB-C for PC/Mac control
  • 1x USB-C for power supply (USB PD 45 W)
• Wireless LAN Support: IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
• Bluetooth Version: 5.2
• Supported Bluetooth Codecs: SBC, AAC
• Weight: 4.6 kg
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 500 x 307 x 71 mm

Revised User Interface

The device relies on a completely revised GUI (Graphical User Interface) that stands out significantly from the traditional interfaces of other DJ controllers. It presents itself with a touch-first design, characterized by its heavily rounded corners and flat, minimalist appearance. This design aims to provide a clear, efficient, and user-friendly interface, particularly appealing to DJs who prefer intuitive and uncomplicated operation. Many of the physical buttons have been eliminated, and functionality has now transitioned into the operating system, which is conveniently controlled via the touchscreen display.

Speaking of the display: With a size of 7 inches, it provides ample space for a clear and organized presentation without being overwhelming. The display resolution is flawless, delivering sharp, easily readable information, which is particularly advantageous for track selection and navigation. The two brightness modes offer options for both indoor and outdoor use. The responsiveness allows for flawless operation without interruptions or shortcomings. In general, the display is impeccable but doesn't bring any significant surprises or innovative approaches.

An important aspect is the compatibility of the OMNIS-DUO with popular DJ software solutions rekordbox and Serato DJ (coming soon). While the AlphaTheta controller is primarily designed as a standalone device, it offers the flexibility to be used in conjunction with these established platforms. This opens up opportunities for DJs who have already invested in one of these ecosystems to seamlessly integrate their existing music libraries and preparations into their sets with the OMNIS-DUO.

The integration of the device with rekordbox is particularly noteworthy. Serato DJ is expected to follow in mid-2024. The OMNIS-DUO unlocks the Performance Play Mode when connected via USB-C. Additionally, it provides access to CloudDirectPlay. This functionality underscores the OMNIS-DUO's ability to adapt to the evolving needs of modern DJs who increasingly rely on cloud-based solutions.

During our testing, access to streaming services was unfortunately not possible. Therefore, in the practical section of our review, we focus on playing from personal music sources and the rekordbox integration.

Innovative Features

AlphaTheta consciously embraces innovation in its nomenclature and branding, reflecting a willingness to take risks with this new product line.

An unique feature is the Bluetooth audio input, which brings a new dimension of interactivity and flexibility to DJ sets. This feature allows DJs to load and play tracks directly from a smartphone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices in real-time.

This enables DJs to respond to audience's spontaneous music requests and seamlessly integrate them into their sets. This function is not only a technical highlight but also promotes interaction with the audience, opening up new possibilities for more dynamic and diverse performances.

Many changes are under the hood, which become apparent when one delves deeper into the device. The device feels new and fresh, also due to the visual redesign of the operating system. Even relatively recent devices like the RX3 suddenly seem a bit outdated, despite having been released not too long ago.

Practical Test and Handling

Layout/User Interface

The layout of the AlphaTheta OMNIS-DUO is characterized by a clean and minimalist design that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. The designers have evidently focused on creating a clear and organized workspace that places all essential controls in an orderly fashion, making it easy for DJs to navigate quickly and maintain control even in stressful situations.

The minimalist design philosophy is also evident in the reduction of physical buttons, with many functions integrated into the controller's operating system instead. This contributes to a clean and less cluttered interface, avoiding the often confusing array of buttons and knobs found on other DJ controllers. This decision favors intuitive operation and makes the OMNIS-DUO particularly user-friendly for beginners without neglecting the needs of experienced DJs.

The controller's sleek design appeals both visually and tactilely, conveying a sense of high-quality. The choice of materials and build quality underscores the endeavor to create a device that is not only functional but also a visual standout. This combination of aesthetics and functionality makes the OMNIS-DUO an attractive device for DJs who value an appealing working environment.

Line Faders and Crossfader

When we examined the Crossfader and Line faders of the AlphaTheta OMNIS-DUO, we had mixed feelings. The Crossfader stands out for its smoothness, enabling seamless and precise transitions between decks. The fader provides just the right amount of resistance to ensure sensitive control over the mix. The Crossfader curve can be adjusted in three different ways in the menu (Trough | Smooth | Sharp).

The Line faders can also be configured in three different steep levels. The generally sharp cut curves of the faders allow for significant changes in the audio signal even with minimal movement.

Despite their compact size, the Pitch faders impress with their responsiveness and precision. They enable precise control, especially in the +/- 6% pitch range, which is crucial for precise timing and track mixing.

Overall, the Crossfader and Line faders of the AlphaTheta OMNIS-DUO strike a balance between smoothness and precise control. Their good construction and responsiveness make them a reliable compromise between size and technology. They are ideal for DJs working in different genres and styles who value quality and accuracy.

Jog Wheels

The jog wheels are flawlessly designed and functional, offering a significant advantage over similar models like the Prime Go. They are larger, providing a comfortable handling experience, especially during extended sessions or complex scratch maneuvers. Although they may still appear somewhat small compared to some other models on the market, they compensate for this with their high responsiveness and precision.

The tactile feedback when touching and operating the jog wheels is extremely pleasant, and they respond promptly and accurately to every movement.

One minor drawback of the jog wheels on the OMNIS-DUO is the absence of On-Jog displays or similar indicators. These would provide direct visual feedback on the jog wheel itself and could further enhance the mixing experience.

The jog wheels of the controller strike a successful balance between size, responsiveness, and user-friendliness, surpassing the mobile standalone competition in terms of size and optimal responsiveness.

Effects

The effects of the AlphaTheta OMNIS-DUO are a crucial part of its functionality, offering DJs versatile options for creativity. The controller is equipped with 8 Beat FX and 6 Sound Color FX, providing a decent selection of effects for track manipulation and customization. The quality of these effects is consistently good, and they sound great in both live performances and studio mixes.

Among the eight Beat FX, the following effect types are available, and they are "post-fader" as well as "post-crossfader":

• Delay
• Echo
• Trans
• Flanger
• Spiral
• Reverb
• Pitch
• Roll

The six Sound Color FX are "post-fader" only and consist of the following selection:

• Space
• Dub Echo
• Crush
• Sweep
• Noise
• Filter

The selection and control of effects are conveniently managed through the touchscreen, enabling quick and intuitive navigation through the various options. Additionally, there are physical Beat buttons that allow DJs to precisely control the length of effects. This combination of touchscreen operation and physical buttons provides flexible and precise control of effects that seamlessly integrate into the workflow.

With 8 Beat FX, the controller offers a basic range of effects, but experienced DJs looking for a wider variety and more specific effects may find this selection somewhat limited. This is especially true when comparing the OMNIS-DUO to other controllers that may offer a broader range of effects.

The effects of the OMNIS-DUO provide a solid foundation for professional mixes. While the number of effects is relatively basic, the available options are of high quality and offer sufficient variety for many standard DJ sets. The combination of touchscreen control and physical Beat buttons becomes second nature quickly.

Media Playback

The DJ controller supports a wide range of media formats and input sources, making it a flexible tool for DJs who want to play music from various sources.

The usual suspects for physical media sources are available:

• 1x USB-A port
• 1x SD card slot

This allows for the connection of larger USB sticks, hard drives, and SD cards. The detection and playback of files in our tests went absolutely smoothly, as expected from Pioneer DJ.

One standout feature is the support for Bluetooth audio input. This brand-new feature allows you to stream music directly from smartphones or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This flexibility is especially useful in situations where a specific song is spontaneously requested that is not available on the USB drive or SD card.

With the input signal, you can work with it as if it were a track from an internal source: adjust the volume, apply EQ, effects, set hot cues, or even scratch - all without a hitch!

For DJs who enjoy fulfilling crowd music requests or collaborating closely with the audience, this opens up entirely new avenues for interacting with the crowd.

This new feature can also be used as a backup function in case streaming via streaming services fails (due to internet issues) or if you have a lot of music on your own smartphone (preferably offline).

Additionally, when used in conjunction with other music apps on iOS or Android or with sample apps or mobile DAWs, a scenario is imaginable where the Bluetooth input serves as an additional creative option to incorporate your own songs, samples, and sounds into the set.

Software Integration: rekordbox and Serato DJ

In addition to its standalone capabilities, the controller is compatible with rekordbox and Serato DJ.

This compatibility allows for seamless and efficient use of the extensive features and music libraries that rekordbox offers. When connected via USB to the computer, the controller acts as a dongle. The performance mode of rekordbox is unlocked, providing access to the familiar options within the software.

Another advantage of the rekordbox integration is the ability to use CloudDirectPlay. This feature allows access to music libraries stored in the cloud. With CloudDirectPlay, DJs can take their music anywhere without worrying about physically transporting USB sticks or external hard drives.

Without going into too much detail about all the pros and cons of the rekordbox software, I can say that the integration works smoothly, and the controller is recognized without any issues. The integration is primarily designed for rekordbox.

Serato DJ is currently not supported. The integration is planned for mid-2024 and will only include the Lite version. Those who want to enjoy all the benefits and features of the Pro version will need to purchase an additional license. Considering the price of the controller, which is around €1500, it would be expected that Serato DJ Pro would be included in the overall package.

Embarking on a New Era - Summary and Conclusion

The AlphaTheta OMNIS-DUO, as the first controller under the AlphaTheta label, introduces new dimensions in several ways. One of its greatest strengths is its user-friendly, minimalist design, which makes it appealing to both beginners and experienced DJs. The responsive jogwheels and precise faders provide a pleasant and precise mixing experience. Additionally, seamless integration with rekordbox and planned support for Serato DJ make the OMNIS-DUO attractive for DJs who have already invested in one of these ecosystems.

An outstanding feature is the innovative Bluetooth audio input function, setting the OMNIS-DUO apart from other controllers in terms of flexibility and interactivity.

Compared to the Denon DJ Prime Go, which is also known for its portable all-in-one construction, the OMNIS-DUO offers a more sophisticated user interface and a modern design. While the Prime Go is renowned for its robust build and comprehensive operating system, the OMNIS-DUO stands out with its innovative interface while maintaining its familiar Pioneer DJ vibes.

The target audience for the OMNIS-DUO includes mobile and, above all, young DJs seeking a high-quality, versatile, and future-proof controller, with a primary focus on ease of use and current smartphone-like technology.

Its price of 1500 euros currently positions it in the upper middle segment, which may make it less appealing to complete beginners or DJs with a limited budget. However, at this price point, buyers receive a device that offers an extensive range of features and high performance, making the OMNIS-DUO a solid choice for more professional users.

The AlphaTheta OMNIS-DUO is an impressive debut for the AlphaTheta brand in the DJ controller realm. It combines modern technology with user-friendliness and presents itself as a serious alternative to established models like the Denon DJ Prime Go.