Review: MasterSounds Linear 4V Mixer and FX Unit | Tips and Tricks

Summary

In this in-depth review, Jax explores the Mastersounds Linear 4V mixer and its accompanying effects unit, diving into its premium design, analog warmth, and valve-powered sound. The 4V's high-end craftsmanship, smooth linear faders, and versatile layout make it a standout in the DJ world. The effects unit, while offering unique, analog-inspired sounds, is more suited for Mastersounds mixers, requiring complex setup and lacking plug-and-play ease. Jax praises the mixer’s exceptional audio quality and flexibility but highlights the effects unit's intricate usability as a potential drawback for non-Mastersounds users.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Mastersounds Linear 4V is a high-end, handmade DJ mixer, priced around £2,000 (~$2,600), offering exceptional build quality.
• 🎚️ The 4V is not a direct successor to the Radius 4 but sits above it, with a focus on adding features like valves and enhanced sound quality.
• 🔊 The 4V features dual triode valves in each channel, providing warm analog compression, even for digital sources.
• 🎛️ The Linear 4V has a traditional four-channel layout with smooth TKD line faders, a crossfader, and a 3-band EQ with full kill and 12dB boost per frequency.
• 🎚️ The master EQ/isolator on the 4V offers full kill and 12dB boost, but could use more space for easier manipulation.
• 🔌 The 4V includes versatile input options with RCA inputs for line and phono, plus XLR inputs for microphones, making it adaptable for various setups.
• 🎧 The external power supply helps maintain sound quality, though the lack of internal power can be less convenient.
• ✂️ The crossfader, made by Penny & Giles, offers smooth fades and cuts, making it a versatile addition for DJs who want more flexibility.
• 🎛️ The Mastersounds Effects unit, priced at £500, is designed to integrate with Mastersounds mixers and provides analog-style delays, reverbs, and distortion effects.
• ⚙️ The Effects unit is not plug-and-play and requires specific setups with send/return loops and splitter cables, making it tricky for non-Mastersounds mixers.

Q & A

What is the key difference between the 4V and the original Radius 4 from Mastersounds?

The 4V is a valve or tube mixer, offering analog warmth through dual triode valves in the input buffer stage, whereas the original Radius 4 does not have this feature. The 4V also has additional features, such as a linear fader version and more extensive input and output options, positioning it as a more premium product.

How does the valve feature of the 4V affect the sound?

The valves provide natural analog compression, which adds warmth to the sound, giving both analog and digital sources a more vintage and desirable tone. This is a key selling point for DJs who seek that analog warmth in their sound.

Is the 4V better than the Radius 4 or other high-end mixers like the Bozak or ENS DJR 400?

It is hard to definitively say the 4V is better without serious A/B testing. However, the sound quality of the 4V is described as fantastic, with a balance between sources that rivals high-end mixers, but whether it justifies the price difference is subjective.

What makes the layout of the 4V more traditional compared to previous Mastersounds models?

The 4V features a more traditional four-channel mixer layout with regular line faders, a crossfader, and a 3-band EQ with significant cut and boost ranges. This layout makes it feel more familiar to DJs used to standard mixers.

How does the 4V’s crossfader perform?

The crossfader, made by Penny and Giles, is considered a bonus for DJs who like to mix smoothly or cut things up. It is praised for its respectable cutting distance and is seen as a versatile addition, even though it's not the main selling point of the 4V.

What are the key features of the Effects unit from Mastersounds?

The Effects unit offers a variety of analog emulation effects, including three delays, three reverbs, and noise and pitching delays. It also features a master high/low filter and distortion, designed to work seamlessly with Mastersounds mixers using the send and return loop, though it is not very intuitive to hook up.

Why is the Effects unit not suitable for non-Mastersounds mixers?

The Effects unit is specifically designed to integrate with Mastersounds mixers, requiring a specific send/return and master insert setup. It does not work well with other mixers unless you use splitter cables, making it a complex and less ideal choice for DJs using other brands.

How does the lack of BPM counter or tap tempo affect the Effects unit?

The Effects unit is designed to emulate old-school analog pedals, where timing and effects are more about creative experimentation rather than precise tempo locking. This lack of BPM control might be a drawback for DJs looking for tight, tempo-synced effects.

What is the main issue with the Effects unit in terms of usability?

The main issue with the Effects unit is its complexity. Connecting it requires careful setup with a send/return and insert loop, and it's not as plug-and-play as many modern DJ effects units. DJs may find it difficult to use initially, though it rewards those who understand its design.

Would the 4V and the Effects unit be a good investment for DJs?

For DJs who prioritize high-quality analog sound, the 4V is an excellent investment. Its build quality, analog warmth, and sound clarity make it a standout. The Effects unit, however, is best suited for DJs already using Mastersounds mixers, as it requires a specific setup and may be too complicated for those seeking simplicity.