Wow, thanks for the feedback!
This pretty much is the consensus between all db4 users - it is amazing even in 2022!
My split at the moment is such:
Brand new:
Model 1 for $3k
Model 1.4 for $1.8k
Xone 96 for 2k (have to wait for 2 months)
All straight up cash…
But!! I really do want to try out a db4.
The problem is that theres only one here and the guy wont budge in selling for less than 2,5k. Not a great deal for a mixer that is great, but had been discontinued…
The only reason I felt like I could justifiably take the plunge on a DB4 was that the price was $1200. It was mint condish and came with a really sweet carrying bag, a bunch of cables, plus an A&H K1 which is a cool midi controller. The dude seemed to have little idea of how to do anything with it. Anyhow, at the price, I couldn’t be more glad to have it. For $2.5K I don’t know. What does a used V10 typically go for?
edit: One of these times I will hit the correct reply button so I don’t have to tag you @Korrektor
Oh man, I would snap that db4 for a 1.5 or 1.7k in a heartbeat. But considering that a brand new 96 or 1.4 is actually cheaper - I am dire straits here:))
A v10 is a worth condender. But it is impossible to find used. Goes for around 3.5 and that is just a no go price for me. My intended use for a mixer is strictly for live shows with two Elektron boxes of choice and an occasional pulsar 23, so a six channel mixer would be def. welcome…
Db4 has 4 channels, but considering the loopers and such - it might do just fine. If only i could convince the guy to drop that rediculous price:)
All and all my mind is pretty much set on a model 1/1.4 and then plug in 3 pedals to it using the 3rd return hack from Oora.
Judging from the serial numbers that pop up here and there in used ads, there are at least 1000 Model 1 mixers ‘out there’. If there was a major general quality issue, I think we would read more about this.
I had to get one of the boards replaced after a year of owning it (one of the DSub outputs failed), but I had bought it used from a rental company, and I think it was in heavy use there (it has a low serial no. and was more than 2 years in rental).
So bought a Model 1 in June. Well… what can i say… the best peace of kit i could possible want. If it works properly (and it does so far) - will not be parting with it ever.
Oh it is absolutely superb! The best mixer ive ever played with live.
Its one of those things where you really dont have to be a “pro” to hear the difference in sound.
Very interested into this mixer now!
I hope I don’t have the problems related.
I was thinking about to improve the mix of my stuff that right now have this setup: a little Soundcraft Notepad 12 mixer receiving several synths: juno, ms20, a tr8s, digitakt, digitone and sp404. This little mix goes to the input of the MOTU4 running ableton. And from there to the speakers.
I think that mixing everything (ableton, drums, digis, sp404) in a good DJ mixer can improve my sound. I never have thought about a DJ mixer but now I’m tempted by MODEL 1. I think is perfect for me. I have seen how Four Tet uses it in live situation and I think it’s perfect.
I have found a second hand one by 1600€ + send (i cannot check in person) and during this weekend there is another oportunity for a brand new by 2374€ that I think is a good deal.
I hope that this could be my mixer for many years. Does it worth the investment? Any advice?
@jeatienzar - If you have monosynths, be aware that the inputs in the stereo channels are not “normalled” to 1 input = mono. This means that you have to split the signal and send it to both inputs (this is simple to do, but was something I did not consider). Also, there is no possibility to pan signals or change the stereo balance of a channel. Overall, the sound, filters, etc. are gorgeous, but the mixer layout is not optimal if you have mono sources, wish to separately process your kick, pan sounds in the mixer, etc. Also, in order to fully benefit from the balanced input and routing options, I would recommend using DSub-TRS breakout cables.
