Still the best mixer under $400? - Allen & Heath Xone:23C - Tried & Tested

[@lustforlow-end6022]

I love how this has phono/line trim knobs on each channel instead of switches. This means you can actually have 4 sources playing on a 2 channel mixer!

[@lwpweb]

the rack mounts spacer are extremly good for using the mixer with turntables mounted in battle mode. with the xone 23 gives you some extra space for cables coming out of the left hand side turntable.

[@sdx2r]

I have this mixer too. Those mount wings on the side built in for several reasons. For my case it's very useful to put my hands stably while mixing. it's kind of working like palm rest which is brilliant design in my opinion. Otherwise this two channel mixer is so small that my hands need to floating in the air. My only wish for this mixer is to have level pots for usb audio ins and external effect send and return. Overall great sounding mixer for the price! I like it ;)

[@robertsimondj]

I also put my hands there :D the best

[@patrickwdoyle]

I bought a used Xone 23C from Ebay. I upgraded to an InnoFader and did the DVS mod at the same time. It really isn't that big of a deal and if you scratch at all you'll want an InnoFader upgrade anyway; you move a wire so that the soundcard has two additonal outputs rather than two inputs but it is reversivle. As mentioned in the review, the build quality is very high so I haven't had any issues. I disagree that taking the faceplate off is a big deal. If you buy a used 23C, it is important understand if the person performed any modding. The Xone 23c user's manual also describes how to break off the phone pre amps so that the mixer has four line inputs rather than two line and two phone but that mod isn't reversible like the DVS mod is. I use Traktor and that is great. My understanding is that a licensed copy of Recordbox would also work and then you'd be easily able to export to a USB drive to use on CDJs.

[@andrewmurphy3569]

How does one boost the photo output .I have read that there is a -6db on the phono side when playing Vinyl

[@MarkSmith-tp6zc]

I’ve owned two 23 analogue and now a 43. Sound top drawer, build too. I installed the Innofader - set to a gradual blend - and no longer am stuck to the useless curve settings on the mixer. It’s perfection. The whole linear to rotary mod is a step too far however!

[@toddachilds]

I have owned one for 5 years...now and it is a,tank...!!

[@Crossfader]

Allen & Heath build quality, no doubt it will still be going strong in another 5 years!

[@kaht1yan]

if i connect through Traktor, can I play a 3rd deck behind do you know if this is doable?

[@Matias0299]

Sarp Sulun i dont think so

[@DJxRomeo1]

Hell yeah!! Sound quality is superb!!

[@abeltje57]

I use it with a budget dj controller. It provides good sound and mic input.

[@djcovee4864]

I have had mine for four years it one great mixer for the money.

[@electronicmusic6609]

I own xone23 and it's amazing mixer, warm sound.

[@md20120]

What's the EQ like on it please? The one I have at the moment seems to go from 0 to 100 with very little movement. The bass for example starts off in the 7 o'clock position and comes in full at the 8 o'clock position

[@bablubora5874]

is Xone 23 sound better than DJ teck 303

[@wsx6991]

@@bablubora5874 yes

[@Aufrufe-dl8yn]

If change the cables inside you Can use it with dvs. Can you then mix dvs with normal Vinyl? and use Traktor effects using the x 1 on Both Vinyl and dvs? Then it would Be the Perfect Setup.

You can mix normal vinyls with Traktor/DVS timecode vinyl on the other channel without any problems. But the effects from Traktor software will apply only to DVS channel.

[@larasteelhead]

I need this format of the DDJ-1000...

[@Crossfader]

We will keep bringing Tried & Tested video's don't worry!

[@maredevil1]

Is it possible to take the ears off? Make it kind of squarey?

[@DamianPavon]

Can i use 2 turntables and the other 2 channels playing from the pc thru the soundcard and mix digital and analog simoultaneusly?

[@patrickwdoyle]

Yes, you can mix a phono source, a line source and a soundcard souce on channel 1 unmodded and a phone and a line source on channel 2 but must perform the mod to swap vinyl ripping for output on channel 2. The soundcard is separate from either the phono or line channels and you have to set the gains in the software settings. It's a little fiddly but after the mod you can theoretically mix six different sources A to B / B to A

[@ItaloBrutalo]

Hello, just wanted to say thank you for this high quality review! I am not native speaker english and your english is perfect for non native speakers. Lots of other tech channels are really difficult to understand for foreigners. :-) Anyway - do you know if there is a difference in sound between the 23 and the 23c? I have two 23 and wonder if it´s worth to upgrade. My 23 sound great and i am afraid the "digital" 23c doesn´t.

[@JustinUrban1]

Just got one to use when I just want to pull out the good ole’ vinyl.

[@andrewmurphy3569]

Did it end up working well for you ,no sound issues ?

[@deemownskee]

Crossfader Based on sound quality alone, how does the 23 stack up against its big brothers, the 92 or 96? Thanks

[@jamesbarr6379]

what are the companies that do the rotary conversions? (the best ones like the conversion on the video)

[@mattockelford]

MC Audio Solutions

[@mattockelford]

m.facebook.com/McRotaryKits/

[@cellrok]

I got one of those, but i couldn't find the conversion kits you were speaking about. I only found one guy who sells complete units for 600-700 a piece, but i just would want those sidepanels and perhaps a faceplate if needed as i already own the base model. Can you give me a link? Thanks!

Search for McRotaryKits on Facebook or Instagram. It's small ( I think one man) company in Netherlands that are doing those kits.

[@cellrok]

@ Thanks a lot. Will do!

[@Crossfader]

MC Rotary Kits is the one! :)

[@cellrok]

@@Crossfader thanks. Am in contact now :)

[@elijah1244]

Can I use the xone 23 with one cdj or do I need the xone23c? Thanks!

[@poidsleger]

do i have to buy serato or traktor seoaratelly or does it come bundled?

You need to buy it separately. As far as I remember it comes with MixVIbes Cross DJ software

[@chrismurray3198]

Does this mixer actually work with Traktor because I have tried with the DVS and I cannot seem to set it up to work. I have had no issues with virtual dj in comparison but do prefer using traktor.

[@Itsyaboy88]

Tons of people use it with traktor

[@notarehersal]

Can this be used without decks, i.e. just the 23c and laptop or do I also need an additional controller? I travel a lot so I am looking for a plug and play portable option. Any advice is appreciated !

[@sonang7721]

From what I've read this mixer has no Midi capabilities at all. You may need a separate controller like Traktor X1 or Xone K2 to control the DJ software.

[@alexsanchez3635]

Is this mixer Analog?

[@patrickwdoyle]

It is an integrated circuit analog mixer with an integrated soundcard; there is no digital signal processor or analog to digital conversion

[@kaht1yan]

Thanks for the video! 1 question: If I connect this to Traktor can I have deck A & B playing and a remix set behind them without the EQ etc controls? I have F1 to control the remix set. Is this doable=? To give remix set directly to master out?

[@jackstreff]

With this mixer would I be able to connect 2 turntables & 2 CDJ’s and be able to use them at the same time? I’ve noticed there’s 4 input knobs at the top so I would have thought you can but not sure.

[@nooneusesthisname]

you can yes but if you have input 1 phono and input 1 line going at once there's no way to control them separately aside from the gain trim knobs

[@DjFico238]

Where l can buy this mixer..do they have it on Amazon?

[@trinnie5780]

Which mixing software can u use wuth this mixer?

[@djdeep6554]

Yes I love mine its one of the best

[@Crossfader]

Great to hear that!

[@bablubora5874]

But only for sounds Which mixer better for DJ .xone 23 and DJ teck 303 mixer

[@soanis6362]

some say the 22 sounds better than the 23, what do you all reckon?? Am about to snag one of the 2.Thnx

[@dirtdias]

Have for 3 months and i will open it to plug DVS control

[@EnochDark]

I just ordered the plain one today since I intend to use it with drum machine/synth and not plugging into computer. Been using old Electrix EQ Killer and Filter for years but like the idea of an all in one box like this plus a crossfader... Made mistake of buying a Behringer with so-called "kills" but they're weak and the faders on it are just the worst ever. Hope this one lives up to the reviews and price tag for real. If I like it enough I'll probably save up for a 43 or whatevs... One thing I've started wondering though is if/when the "24" is supposed to happen since this thing is like 7-8 years old? I don't think there was this much time between the 22 and 23. Hopefully it isn't announced soon but knowing my luck...

[@joshmeaney]

Wish it had an AUX tho, just so I can play any tune whenever

[@romerolemstra8747]

You mean a line input?

[@joshmeaney]

@@romerolemstra8747 aye

[@joshmeaney]

Both channels will be taken by turntables, need that extra line input so I can sometimes bang some random tunes on off Spotify

[@josuetezo8105]

Nice video ! I'm upgrading my dj system and I am very interest on the djm 450 from Pioneer, however it doesn' t have booth outputs, because i'm new on these I would like to know if it is very important to have booth ouputs, thanks.

[@deadseason232]

Woah that looks super cool 🔥

[@Crossfader]

They look even better as a Rotary!

[@JakeDaniels234]

Do I need an amplifier if i use xone 23 C and a pair of pioneer cdj 800 mk1?

[@mollynash1896]

course you do ,, just using the mixer and 2 decks will only produce the sound via headphones,, need a amp and speakers so your party gets started,, don’t forget cables as well

[@moscasucio1686]

Get powered speakers, no need for amp

[@RC75]

@@mollynash1896 Nonsens! Powered speakers is all you need.

[@davidrobbins1230]

I have vinyl and digital files, and would like to play both but only two at a time - would this mixer be suitable. Or would I need 4 channels.

[@devintoner1160]

This works fine. I use two 1200s and two XDJ1000s with this all the time. I’d argue it’s actually one of the best, since you don’t need to toggle a switch between phono/line (each have independent gain). So as long as you don’t try to play both sources on the same channel, you don’t need to do anything. I much prefer a smaller two channel mixer compared to the gigantic ones in clubs.

[@andrewmurphy3569]

@@devintoner1160 do you find any sound issues when using the 1200’s .I have read that there is sound loss on the phono side

[@devintoner1160]

@@andrewmurphy3569 the phono preamps are a little bit on the quieter side. I would just run the phono preamps at max (or close to it depending on the record) and then run the line preamp closer to 12 or 1 o’clock. You can always make the overall mix louder with booth/master. Records really vary in volume so you’ll need to adjust gain on pretty much every mixer you use anyway. DJs who never touch input gain are probably all over the place.

[@andrewmurphy3569]

@@devintoner1160 would it matter if you used a external pre-amp . I been doing so much research lately and I really like the xone23 rather than having a entire pioneer Dj controller .I like the idea of purchasing CDJ’s down the road.

[@devintoner1160]

@@andrewmurphy3569 so you could do that technically, but you’ll need to run that into the LINE inputs since 1200>external preamp>mixer will be at line level, not phono level. With that, you have a few options: 1) The xone23 can be modified to switch the phono inputs to line, which would allow you 1200s>external preamps>”phono input turned lined” + 2 cdjs > line inputs. 2) There is also a hack online to boost the output of the phono preamps, you might as well do this since it’s similar in effort to option 1). That all said, here is what I recommend: Find a friend or a store with xone23 and try it out. If you like the layout etc, just buy it and use it with your 1200s. Later on if you get a XDJ/CDJ or two, just plug them in and see how you like it stock using only gain to adjust levels. If you don’t like that, only then consider options 1 or 2. It’s hard to go wrong with xone23 if you want to have fun mixing and let the music do it’s thing. I have Condesa Lucia, and master sounds radius, but I still love the 23 almost as much those.

[@CasmurMusic]

Is this still a good choice in 2022? I’m looking for a mixer to pair with my Reloop RP7000Mk2 turntables

[@SeismicExcursion]

absolutely much better sound quality than pioneer

[@antoniot.9002]

I’m looking for the same as you. A mixer for a pair of Reloop RP 7000 Mk2. Did you finally buy the Allen&Heath?

[@djdeep6554]

Do you know what kind of microphone I use with xone 23-c?

[@juzep2799]

Can I use this mixer to convert my vinyl to digital?

Yes - it works like a charm

[@alanmodimages]

This? Or the Numark Scratch?

Xone:23C - if you are playing from vinyls + DVS, if you are in to scratching invest in InnoFader (the default one is bad for scratch). If you are interested only in playing from DVS and no vinyls go for Numark or any other hardware. That's my opinion after 3 years of using Xone:23C (previously Kontrol S8, Z2, some basic Reloop mixers, Stanton SA 8, some Denon mixer that I don;t remember). The biggest advantage from buying Xone:23C is the extraordinary sound quality.

[@alanmodimages]

@ Thanks! I believe I am probably going to go with the Traktor S4 Mk III. I can plug my 1200's to it and either use DVS or run analog. I don't really scratch, just cut and juggle sometimes. Mostly old school House. I am far from a turntablist! I have never used software before, but if I like it, I can then upgrade to a Xone 96 and then already have most items in place. How was your experience with Traktor?

@@alanmodimages I like quality build of Native Instruments controllers and I'm sure that you will be satisfied with Kontrol S4 (I was using also other NI hardware: S8, X1, F1, Traktor Scratch A10 ). Works with software perfectly. But I don't like quality of the sound from NI sounds cards. Xone is more punchy and warm. You can hear much more with it (especially playing vinyls). Regarding software i liked much more Interface and sound effects from Traktor - one disadvantage was library and also that they didn't develop it further (but looks that now they jump back and adding new features).

[@alanmodimages]

@ I really appreciate your answers! Yes. I almost jumped into the Pioneer Controllers until I realized they were not using good phono preamps. they optimized them for DVS control systems and not audio. Xone would be my top for "Club Mixer" style because of the sound. I considered the 43C, but some reviews were not very good, and the crossfader has a dead area past the halfway mark. Changeover back to vinyl and recording seems hard too. So the Traktor controller is a bit of a compromise. They say they are using a new "Club Ready' DAC, so we will see. People also say good things about the quality of their effects. I also really want to explore their remix decks. In parallel, I am looking at an Omitronic Clone (Sub Zero) to try out Rotary. If the quality of the traktor solution holds up, and I am also comfortable with the Rotary workflow, then my ultimate upgrade path will probably lead to a Xone 96 with Traktor and a Condesa Rotary Mixer! First I will need a second job :)

[@alanmodimages]

@ Yes as well. the Library was not so hot on Traktor, but now they have added Smart Playlists / Crates. In all honesty, the lack of library management when all the software companies first came out held me back from the digital world to this point. In some ways the CDJ's / Rekordbox and now even Denon did a better job. Hopefully that is changed! I never saw myself with a controller, as they always looked cheap! And never wanted to be called a "Laptop DJ" LOL. But budgets have changed. I just hope there is enough quality in the sound and performance in the Traktor gear to make the investment worthwhile in the mid term horizon for me!

[@Rickky007]

Only one way to find out , do I video update in 20 years from now 😂

[@bizinhodo4]

hello, I have an equal mixer, where can I buy the rotary coversor kit?

[@Crossfader]

Give MC Audio Solutions a google, they do a great kit

[@jaygranttaylor]

I've just ordered one of the conversion kits from MC Audio Solutions, can't wait to get it!

[@bizinhodo4]

@@jaygranttaylor Hello what is the website to order? only the facebook page appears, I don’t shop by facecebook. I only buy on sites with certificates

[@jaygranttaylor]

@@bizinhodo4 he only has a Facebook page and an Instagram page. I think it is only one person who sources all the components and custom makes a new faceplate. Marios Xatzikirlis is his name. If you join the Facebook page "Rotation: Classic & Boutique DJ mixers - Custom Modifications" he has loads of happy customers. I also paid via PayPal so you are covered in the unlikely event you don't receive the kit.

[@FlipDeRiviera]

Jay Taylor hello, how does it work? MC Audio Solutions sends you the kit and you upgrade your own mixer with it at home? Would love to know, thank you for your time.

[@chasbo2]

Very helpful vid, thank you.

[@bablubora5874]

Sound quality which mixer better . between 23 c and 250 mk2 please reply

[@AmbientWanderer]

The Xone 23c ~!

[@nothingmemorable486]

It's finally time to replace my ancient vestax and it's a dilemma.... I have vinyl as well as digita and I want to do DVS mainly just to organise my usb as etc for little doos.... I was considering the DJM 250mk2 but I have been put off by the crappy preamps... I really want tge best sound possible. How much work is it actually to make this thing DVS ready??....I have the tools... Has anyone used it with the open source MIXX software? Cheers all.

[@sisyphusvasilias3943]

Thanks mate

[@Crossfader]

Any time!

[@danieldevine9117]

Around £500 nowadays

[@michaelschiller1334]

I've nearly converted my vinyl to digital recently. I do want to use a dvs mixer. I currently have a traktor z2. Which is dreadfully unreliable with numerous issues. Is there any 2 channel dvs mixer you would recommend. Any budget.

[@Orb_E]

Anyone used this to dj with Ableton Live?

[@gelatinous6915]

It doesnt have fx though, which is a problem for lots of people.

[@_Gustav027_]

Gelatinous I paired it with two guitar pedals. Fixed the problem. facebook.com/gustavo.p.espinoza/videos/10222883880030610/?d=n

[@Crossfader]

It's a trade off for sure but the sound quality is far superior to rival mixers at this price point

[@gelatinous6915]

@@Crossfader They do have a send/return though, which would be super useful if there was a DJ fx unit that wasn't the price of a full mixer

[@tombeary2095]

@@_Gustav027_ hey man, i'm thinking of investing in this mixer and looking to see how easy it would be to incorporate a Boss RE-20 Space Echo Pedal into to my set up? .. you have done something similar?

[@DjMossy]

Just connect a rane sl3 to it for digital use

[@Crossfader]

That's what we've done in the office but it's worth remembering a Rane SL3 box is just as expensive as the mixer!

[@DjMossy]

Crossfader that’s true. Luckily I have one. I’m trying To save up for the reloop elite. Have you guys tested that yet?

[@QRS365]

mannn these things going for over $400 in 2024

[@Shari_Tejp]

It takes literally 7 minutes to make this mixer DVS compatible with traktor. Why would you say it is really difficult? 😅

[@portwill]

Can you use normal vinyl with the DVS mod? Have you tried it with any other software than Traktor?

[@TheDeepSpiral8]

Phono inputs sounds -6dB less than line inputs.Im the only one playing vinyls with this mixer???? The first thing is repair this and then we can talk about how It sounds. ..

[@andrewmurphy3569]

How does one boost the sound then?Pre-amp? looking to buy a mixer just for vinyl

[@TheDeepSpiral8]

@@andrewmurphy3569 you have to fix It or take your "new" mixer to a sound technic,i got this mixer 2 days and i returned to the shop,i took a Pioneer 250 and goes really good for vinyls

[@andrewmurphy3569]

@@TheDeepSpiral8 dang that’s unfortunate,I always wanted a Allen& Heath mixer

[@TheDeepSpiral8]

@@andrewmurphy3569 thats what i want,the Allen & heath sound,but you have to take expensive models.I dont understand why they did this mixer low priced but unfinished?!

[@andrewmurphy3569]

@@TheDeepSpiral8 I heard even the xone 43 has same issue as well ?

[@Paidonthedaily]

The shape ruined it for me.but it sounds good so. Thats the main thing.

[@wieszo2112]

Cool

[@Crossfader]

Thanks!

[@hgaf4444]

I‘m planning to get the Xone 23 (without sound card) together with a pair of XDJ 700s next month. I also want to get a pair of nice turntables in the future, but I’m not planning on going DVS. Is there another mixer in that price range you can recommend? Probably a whole different set-up under 1500€?

[@Crossfader]

Omnitronic have a cool rotary mixer out! We're big fans of the Numark Scratch too with it's Innofader crossfader! Depends on what style of mixing you want to achieve really!

[@harmony2368]

Englishs always ahead of the game.....beatles...even there songs were brainwash with the tavistock institute....death in June....coil!

[@DjGJ]

Only 1 mic input 👎 power IN via adapter not regular IEC connection 👎 use of external effects units on small 2 channel mixer ?? would make more sense to have some nice effects on board.. best small mixer I ever had was Pioneer DJM-400

[@Crossfader]

All depends on the use case. DJ's choosing the 23C will care more about the phono pre amp quality than the effects. Just as a Pioneer user will typically care more about the effects than the sound quality.

[@DjGJ]

@@Crossfader true true..let's not forget though.. when speaking sound quality we must forget mp3's...true is that when we dj, we don't use effects that much..

[@maredevil1]

@@DjGJ Except all pioneer mixers are digital...

[@bablubora5874]

Is Xone 23c better sound quality than pioneer djm 400