The Allen & Heath Xone 92 has been an iconic DJ mixer for over 20 years, cherished by house and techno DJs for its analog sound, precise controls, and seamless blending capabilities. Now, the much-anticipated Xone 92-2 is here, retaining the classic features while introducing several key upgrades. This review breaks down what makes the Xone 92-2 a powerful choice for professional DJs who prioritize sound quality and control in their performances.
The Legacy of the Xone 92
The Xone 92’s reputation is built on its warm analog sound and precision controls. DJs love its four-channel layout, complete with 4-band EQs and smooth analog filters. According to the reviewer, the Xone 92 became a mainstay at house and techno events because “it gives you so much hands-on control” over your mix, allowing DJs to blend tracks smoothly and creatively.
Image source from Allen & Heath website
What’s New in the Xone 92 MK 2?
Despite being a new version of an iconic mixer, Allen & Heath haven’t tampered too much with the original formula. The upgrades are subtle but impactful, keeping what worked and refining what didn’t.
1. Silent Filter Switching
One of the standout new features is the silent switching on the filters. In the original Xone 92, engaging or adjusting the filters could cause a slight popping sound, which was a frequent complaint. This issue has been completely addressed in the Xone 92 MK 2
2. Improved Filters
While the Xone 92’s filters were already a favorite among DJs, Allen & Heath have further refined them. The resonance is now more controlled, and the filter frequency is more precise, offering better accuracy when sculpting sound.
3. Mini Inner Fader Pro Crossfader
A new addition is the Mini Inner Fader Pro Crossfader, which is now adjustable and offers a sharper cut for more precise mixing.
4. New Channel Fader Curves
The Xone 92-2 also addresses a quirk of the original model—the channel fader curve. The old model had a curve that wasn’t ideal for all mixing styles, but the Xone 92-2 introduces three options: linear, the original curve, and a new, more bent option.
5. Revised Preamps for Better Level Matching
Level matching between different inputs (like CDJs and turntables) used to be a challenge with the original 92, but the Xone 92-2 comes with improved preamps that solve this issue.
Aesthetic and Usability Enhancements
The Xone 92-2’s faceplate has been modernized, offering a cleaner, more defined look. This not only enhances the aesthetics but also improves navigation during a DJ set.
Analog Sound and Outboard Effects
One of the defining features of the Xone 92-2 is its fully analog design. Unlike many modern mixers, there are no digital effects, touchscreens, or software updates. Instead, the focus is on delivering pure analog sound quality.
“What that means is there’s no touchscreen, no software updates, and no digital effects like echo, delay, or reverb,” says the reviewer. However, the mixer’s stereo send/return channels make it easy to integrate external effects processors, allowing DJs to customize their setup with their favorite gear.
The reviewer demonstrates this by using a Strymon El Capucin delay pedal, showing how easily external effects can be routed through the mixer’s channels. “An effect like this on these mixers pairs so well, in my opinion. It gives you the ability to choose your effects and craft your sound.”
Creative Sound Design with Filters
One of the Xone 92-2’s unique tricks is the ability to create a DIY phaser effect using its filters and LFO. By combining the high-pass and low-pass filters, DJs can build a rich, phaser-like sound, adding another layer of creativity to their set.
“When you hold two filters down and get the LFO going, you start to get this wavy, phaser sound which is a lot of fun,” says the reviewer. This feature allows DJs to experiment with sound design in a way that isn’t possible on most mixers.
Who is the Xone 92-2 For?
The Xone 92-2 is tailor-made for DJs who appreciate analog sound quality, hands-on control, and creative mixing options. It’s particularly popular among house and techno DJs who prefer to blend tracks seamlessly over extended periods. The updated features make it an excellent choice for DJs who use both CDJs and turntables, as well as those who want to incorporate outboard effects into their sets.
Conclusion
The Allen & Heath Xone 92-2 may not have as many bells and whistles as some digital mixers on the market, but what it does offer is unparalleled analog sound quality, precise control, and a set of creative tools that will appeal to DJs who prioritize craftsmanship in their mixing.
“They’ve given it a sweet new look, addressed a few issues, added some great tweaks, and sent it on its way. It’s still the classic Xone 92 but better,” the reviewer concludes.
If you’re a DJ who values analog precision and flexibility, the Xone 92-2 could be the perfect upgrade to take your sets to the next level.
