Gear article

Allen & Heath XONE:PX5 Analogue FX DJ Mixer

The Allen & Heath XONE:PX5 is a professional four-channel analogue DJ mixer designed to bridge the gap between traditional analogue warmth and modern digital performance workflows. It integrates a high-quality internal soundcard with a dedicated hardware effects engine, providing a versatile hub for both club installations and complex hybrid live sets.

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Overview

The XONE:PX5 is a versatile 4-channel DJ mixer that combines Allen & Heath's signature analogue circuitry with digital flexibility. It is designed to act as a central hub for professional DJ booths, supporting various setups from traditional vinyl to digital vinyl systems (DVS). The mixer is notable for its integrated high-specification soundcard and the inclusion of the Xone:Xcite FX suite, making it a comprehensive tool for performance-oriented mixing.

Digital and Software Integration

At the core of the PX5 is a 20-channel, 24-bit/96kHz USB 2.0 internal soundcard. This interface allows for seamless integration into digital workflows, specifically supporting DVS control for Native Instruments Traktor Scratch Pro 2. Beyond software, the unit features a 5-pin MIDI sync/out connection, which enables DJs to synchronise external hardware such as drum machines or synthesizers with the mixer's internal clock or incoming audio signals.

Xone:Xcite FX Suite

The mixer features the Xone:Xcite FX suite, a collection of performance-focused digital effects designed specifically for the DJ environment. The suite includes:

  • Delays and Reverbs
  • Modulators and Flangers
  • Distortion effects

These effects are controlled via dedicated hardware knobs, allowing for tactile manipulation and creative layering during live performances.

Analogue Character and Filtration

Despite its digital features, the PX5 maintains a strictly analogue signal path for its primary mixing functions. It includes the legendary Xone Voltage Controlled Filter (VCF) system, offering high-pass, band-pass, and low-pass options alongside resonance and frequency sweep controls. This provides the signature warm, punchy sound character associated with Allen & Heath's Xone series.

Connectivity and Expansion

The PX5 is equipped with professional-grade I/O, including balanced XLR main outputs and dedicated booth monitoring. For expansion, it features the X-Link port, which allows for the connection of Xone:K series controllers without occupying additional USB ports on a computer. This makes it particularly suitable for hybrid setups involving external controllers and MIDI-enabled instruments.

Market Positioning and Comparison

Positioned as a mid-to-high-tier professional mixer, the PX5 competes with industry standards like the Pioneer DJ DJM-A9. While the DJM-A9 focuses on digital processing and standard club layouts, the PX5 appeals to users who prefer analogue summing and the specific ergonomic feel of the Xone filter. It serves as a more compact, effects-heavy alternative to the flagship XONE:96, while offering significantly more professional features than entry-level units like the SubZero DM-400 or Ecler NUO 2.0.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the channel count of the Allen & Heath XONE:PX5?
The XONE:PX5 features four main phono/line channels plus one additional mic/line channel, totaling a 4+1 configuration.
Does the XONE:PX5 support DVS?
Yes, it features an internal soundcard that is specifically designed to support DVS control for Native Instruments Traktor Scratch Pro 2.
What kind of effects are included in the Xone:Xcite suite?
The suite includes a variety of performance-oriented delays, reverbs, modulators, flangers, and distortion effects.
Can I connect external hardware instruments to this mixer?
Yes, the mixer includes a 5-pin MIDI sync/out connection for integrating hardware like synthesizers and drum machines.
What is the audio quality of the internal soundcard?
The internal USB soundcard operates at 24-bit depth and a 96kHz sampling rate across 20 channels.
Does the PX5 have the classic Xone filter?
Yes, it includes the signature Xone VCF system, which offers HPF, BPF, LPF, and resonance control.
How does the PX5 connect to Xone:K series controllers?
It features a dedicated X-Link port, allowing for data and power connection to Xone:K controllers via an Ethernet cable.
Is the signal path analogue or digital?
The primary mixing and summing engine is analogue, while the internal effects and USB soundcard are digital.
What are the main outputs on the XONE:PX5?
The mixer provides balanced XLR connectors for the main mix and dedicated outputs for booth monitoring.
Can the MIDI clock be synced to the music?
Yes, the mixer can generate a MIDI clock based on the BPM of the audio, which is then sent through the 5-pin MIDI out.
How does the PX5 compare to the XONE:96?
The PX5 features a built-in digital effects engine which the XONE:96 lacks, though the XONE:96 offers dual USB ports and more complex EQ options.
What is the typical price for the XONE:PX5?
The typical price range for this mixer is approximately GBP 1085.