The new Denon DN-MC6000 crams a lot in to a small space.
Looks like the new Traktor Kontrol S4 hasn’t got everything its way: Announced today at the 2010 DJ Expo in Atlantic City, the Denon DN-MC6000 (US$949 / £615 / €709) is an exciting 4-deck DJ mixer and Midi controller with all the high-end features you could possibly imagine integrated into its sleek tabletop steel chassis.
It certainly looks the part, being of predictably high construction quality and really cramming a lot into its 19″ rack-mountable frame.
Many functions you’ll be able to guess (switchable pitch bend / scratch mode jogs, keylock, shift key extra functionality, library navigation). So let’s take a closer look at some of the more distinctive featuresof the Denon DN-MC6000:
- Four decks – two controlled by each side, with visible colour change for easy navigating between them
- A switchable audio, audio/video, video crossfader
- It’s a “real” mixer, which can take external sources (line/phono, up to four) and mix them without the need for a computer to be attached. As such it’s a “hybrid” mixer
- High-resolution jogwheels (touch sensitive) and pitch faders for improved performance and control
- Eight hot cue / sampler buttons (switchable)
- A host of outputs – balanced XLR, unbalanced and booth outputs, plus phones
- Mic “ducking” (talkover) and 3-band mic EQ for both mics
- Multiple effects on each channel
- Works out of the box with Traktor and Virtual DJ (LE editions; in America you get Virtual DJ, in Europe and Asia you get Traktor); Midi mappable for other software. It’s Windows 7 and Mac, by the way…
Here's a clear view of all the controls (click to enlarge) with the optional rack-mounting kit attached.
So who is the Denon DN-MC6000 for?
The Denon DN-MC6000 will certainly appeal to Digital DJ Tips readers looking for that elusive perfect controller that can do all kinds of things but still be small enough to throw into a flight bag or backpack.
It will appeal to you if you still have record decks and/or CD players to integrate with your digital setup, or if you want an installation mixer that all types of DJs can use as well as digital DJs. It would make a good centrepiece to such a versatile DJ setup.
And if you’ve been waiting for a high-end controller to work with Virtual DJ, this one’s had the thinking done for you, especially if you want to mix video, when your options are further reduced. In that case, having a unit like this that can happily handle audio, video or both is a godsend.
A plethora of inputs and outputs to cope with multiple situations make this a good centre-piece mixer.
What are the DN-MC6000′s weaknesses?
Where it may well fall down is with the sheer number of controls crammed into such a small unit. Time will tell how easy this is to play with, but the booth and monitor controls look very close to the jogwheels to me, for instance.
Also, as DJ controllers get more advanced, the interplay between hardware and software will become ever-more important.
I believe Serato has stolen a march here – the Serato ITCH software is uncluttered and a joy to use in collaboration with the dedicated (there’s the key) hardware, and so it remains to be seen whether any of these new four-deck controllers can usurp the Allen & Heath Xone:DX / Serato ITCH combination for sheer ease of use. I doubt the Denon DN-MC6000 will dare come in higher than it on price, that’s for sure.
The Denon DN-MC6000 has the expected controls on the front including a crossfader curve adjuster.
Competitors?
The American Audio VMS-4 is on paper a competitor, being a great value 4-deck controller with the Hybrid controller elements and multiple ins and outs, but its build quality lets it down. Then there are the aforementioned Allen & Heath Xone:DX and of course the new the Traktor Kontrol S4.
Priced at US$949, the Denon DN-MC6000 will retail slightly cheaper than the Traktor Kontrol S4, but at considerably more than the American Audio VMS-4.
Things are certainly hotting up in the four-deck DJ controller arena!
See it at: Thomann (UK & rest of Europe)
Do you own a high-end “hybrid” or 4-deck controller? Are you planning on buying one? Has this made you think again about shelling out for one of the other controllers? Let us know.
Now go to:
Review: Denon DN-MC6000 4-Deck DJ Midi ControllerTraktor Kontrol S4 DJ System Announced
4 New Budget DJ Controllers for 2010
Want to join the Digital DJ Tips club?
Find out about all the benefits of joining our FREE DJ-only member’s club.
Tags: 4-deck, controller, denon, denon dn-mc6000, dj, DN-MC6000, four-deck, midi
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.
Comparing it to allen & heath mixer? Bad move. Pioneer has got mixers on lockdown and Traktor.
[ link ]I shelled out $900 for an A&H mixer only last year. I love the build quality and sound quality. I’m strictly a digital dj, not CD’s or TT’s. I have a xone 1d which I’m replacing with a kontrol x1 but I don’t think I’ll get rid of the entire rig to get an all in one controller. To me there’s no point. Now if I were to start all over again…sure I’d definitely consider it although as a beginner..I’d be weary to shell out so much $$$ for such a system. I started using only my uc-33 and moved up once I knew I liked dj’ing. The price commitment for beginners just might be too much.
[ link ]To Robtrex: “Pioneer has got mixers on lockdown and Traktor” – could you explain what you mean here please?
[ link ]Hallo,
can you please let me know if the new MC 6000 is compatible with the DRIVE UNIT BU 4500 from Denon?
Thanks a lot ……..
Andy
[ link ]I had the vms4 and it is crap. build quality is abysmal and the mic inputs distort like hell. Glad I returned it. I have had the DN-HC4500 for ages and it’s Bombproof.
The MC-6000 should be the all in one killer we’ve been waiting for. It doesn’t support the base unit unfortunately as it does not have displays. The price is a little high but I would rather ace the Denon quality rather than the American Audio price!
[ link ]I Agree with Djstardust, I bought the vms4, had issues exchanged it…and the new unit is going back to the store today. They didn’t miss on design….but they missed on quality. I will sit back and wait for the MC-6000…..
[ link ]Only has 2 audio channels!!!
[ link ]All those that praise the Denon quality, you are dead on. Denon has always been the leader in quality. I have been a fan since their excellence in turntables to HDD media players, i.e. 2500. I also own a Vestax VCI 300. I will shell out the $800 for the DN-MC6000!!! Live on King Denon.
[ link ]I am a bit confused about the video feature of this unit. Can you elaborate more about the video functionality/usage of the unit?
- “In that case, having a unit like this that can happily handle audio, video or both is a godsend.”
- “A switchable audio, audio/video, video crossfader”
thanks
[ link ]Absolutely agree with Djstardust and Vipersrath, returned my VMS4 and got my 500 bucks back. Tanx to Amazon and 123music! The scroll wheels was spinning like eggs, the microphone channels unbearable, the headphone out to soft and after using it only on one short gig, the markings from the crossfaders started to wipe off… I have an almost 20 years old Denon DN2700F what never failed me and is still perfectly working and all the markings are still there. Can’t wait for the MC-6000, will happily spend the extra 300 bucks and know I can fit it without any modifications in my existing 19″ rack.
[ link ]I’m seriously thinking in buying the MC6000. Does anyone already tryed it? It’s good or… not? defects or almost perfect?
Cumps
[ link ]We used it briefly at a DJ show, looked excellent.
Hoping to receive one from Denon in the next few weeks for a proper review.
[ link ]I saw an ad for it recently on a DJ site and I’m intrigued. Any idea of when we can expect a review?
[ link ]We’ve requested one from the manufacturer, so as soon as it arrives, you’ll get a full review.
Phil
[ link ]Guys i’m seriously doubting the Vestax 300 over the Denon DN-MC6000. I want to buy a set in the next coming week. Pros of the Vestax are that there a some really good reviews, cons are that it’s all digital. This in relation to the Denon that also works analog.
In price it comes down to a 100bucks or so.. So doesn’t bother me much.
Any good advice? Im not that experienced (yet), so maybe that makes a difference.
Help, Anyone?
[ link ]You’ve called it correctly. If you want to digital DJ with two decks, go for Vestax VCI-300 – it just does the job, and very well. If you want the extra flexibility (and complexity) , the Denon is an excellent controller.
[ link ]hi, i have a question for you. does the MC6000 have a feature where you can run both decks off the same usb drive? or do you need two drives? email me, facebook me i dont care im really lookin to buy one soon here.
[ link ]Karl, you can’t run any decks off a USB drive – you need to connect it to a laptop.
[ link ]numark mixdeck, nuff said.
[ link ]So is Denon DN-MC6000 better then Traktor Kontrol S4 ?
[ link ]Is Denon DN-MC6000 compatible with Traktor software ?
And when is it coming out to buy it ?
It’s just been released, and it’s not better or worse than the Traktor S4 – it’s got a different set of features, so it’s worth doing a side-by-side comparison if you’re considering the two. It only works with Traktor Pro and Virtual DJ, as opposed to Traktor S4 software which only comes with the S4.
[ link ]Tracktor Control S4 is only (music) and not compatible to Vertualdj.
Denon DN-MC6000 is (Audio/Video) and is compatible to Vertualdj With video but can also use Tractor softwear music only no video.
[ link ]Thnx Man, I just bought the Traktor Kontrol S4 & is doing the Job 4me
[ link ]the let down for me a diehard traktor user in regard for the S4 is not having xlr outputs especially for us mobile djs who wants to plug directly to a pa system.I have an american audio velocity cd player & i’m planning on selling it to by the denon dn-mc6000.I also have to pioneer mep7000 in case i have to use cds or my flash drive.the beauty about the mc6000 is that i could fit into my rack case & use it as a normal mixer with my mep7000.
[ link ]Finally, more than two endless long month after my VMS4 disaster (see my blog above), the DN-MC 6000 is on it’s journey to Trinidad. Will keep you posted after it’s arrival early next year, can’t wait…!
[ link ]Btw, I got mine from http://www.rkaudio.com for a super discounted price of $719.– inclusive free shipment!
Wish you the best of luck with that Deejay D’Docta, let us know how you get on
[ link ]Hey Phil, how is the soundcard on this? I’ve been reading several sound card issues esp. with DJs on Windows + Traktor Pro. How would you rate this out of 10 and against the S4?
[ link ]Bianca: Both 10/10.
[ link ]I think Denon dropped the ball, and really missed out by delaying the release of this … I ordered mine at the end of Oct, and it looks like I won’t get it till February (I live in Canada).
[ link ]It was really hot sh*t a few months ago, but with all the new releases at NAMM I’m going to re-think my purchase – I already got my refund back today…
I’m sure I would have been very happy with the mc6000, but since companies are realizing the demand for 4 channel controllers we can expect better/more varied tools for our trade.
I might still get the mc6000, but this was definitely the last time I pre-order something.
We’re about to run a big review on this controller which should help you in your decision.
[ link ]Go South man and get it from Guitar Electric in Tonawanda NY for CAD $752 + Pioneer headphones FREE (15 min from the Lewingston bridge border).
[ link ]I got mine 2 weeks ago and it’s fantastic. I had a VMS-4 for a week and returned since it was really poor. The Denon works very well with VDJ 7.0 pro 4 decks and the sound is astonishing with my JBL’s. Nothing can beat this controller at this point.
I am a DJ who was never brought up the “old school way” on turntables so I have ALWAYS used a computer and a program (MAINLY Traktor…or Serato [INT Mode]). Ever since I found out about the controller based systems from a few buddies who were running the ITCH, i’ve wanted to step my game up. I’ve looked at the S4 (didn’t like the orientation of the platters), looked at the VCI-100 MKII (didn’t like that it’s ALL digital…what if the PC crashes), looked at the Pioneer DDJ-T1 (was seriously concidering this system) & then I ran across this Denon and i’m loving what I am seeing thus-far. Can’t wait to get to my local retailer and try it out.
I do have a question that I haven’t been able to find an answer to by looking at demo’s on YouTube….is there a way to record your live mixes thru this controller back to the computer?
[ link ]Yup, it’s very easy to record you mix.
[ link ]ive owned this unit for 3 months now and its awesome!! unfortunate for me i gotta sell it due to having to pay back taxes :/ screw you uncle sam!!! if anyone is interested in purchasing my mc6000, i could be reached at darkness0704@live.com. i still have original box and everything.. i can even include the latest traktor and vdj
[ link ]Was really looking at getting one of these, have been researching all the controllers with an inbuilt soundcard, as I’m looking at making the switch from cdj’s to traktor but don’t really want the hassle of turning up to a club and messing around at the back of the mixer plugging audio interface etc…whilst the
[ link ]previous Dj is mixing. So a controller seems like a good idea, but a few worries I have is weight, (have to think if laptop and controller is heavier than my bug cd wallet to carry around before gig) and size as any Dj knows booths are never normally have that much spare space, which is where the pros for audio interface and club mixer with x1 come in. Just wondering if anyone knows of any big name dj’s that use the dn-mc6000?
It’s not massively heavy, you can certainly carry it in a bag with a laptop. Controller DJs always have the issue of setting up in DJ booths – you’ll have to live with this one. although stands can allow you to perch your gear above decks etc.
[ link ]One issue I have with it is, there’s a delay on the sound feedback on headphones..the same thing happened when i used a cheaper gemini version…different headphones so i don’t know what the problem is.
I’ve only used it twice and still trying to get it to work right….it’s geting better as far as configs go but I still can’t get over the delay in my headphones…how the hell am i supposed to mix when the beats don’t line up?
[ link ]Highly unusual, maybe its something in your PC set-up or sound configurations, it’s certainly not a fault with the Denon. That kind of delay is obviously a dealbreaker! I’d get someone knowledgeable to investigate that for you.
[ link ]i have the same problem with the headphone deley
[ link ]on my mc6000 pls need help
Im about to order the MC6000, but just wondering if anyone can recommend a good travel case for it?? Im constantly flying and want to protect it..
[ link ]Denon was looking to launch its own hard flightcase for this unit, similar to the Traktor S4 official flightcase, which I have seen – it is big and heavy, but very sturdy. Not sure whether they ever did or not – you could try their site…
[ link ]Hi Dj Love, I use a ‘Vault’ case for my MC6000. Stumbled over it by accident. Actually I planned to integrate the Denon in my existing 19″ rack, but when I just got it, and had a gig the same day i was to lazy to mount it in the rack. It fitted perfectly snug inside on the bottom of the ‘Vault VC-22 case’ I used before for my cables and mics . I only wrap the Denon in some light sponge. On top of it fits my Stanton ‘Ueberstand’ and my MacBook in a sleeve, plus the external hard drive, mics, headphone and all cables to wire up two Eon’s.
[ link ]The case is small enough to go through as hand luggage and it fit easily in the overhead compartment on a plane. The wheels and extendable handle make it so easy to move around and the quality of the case is comparable to a much more expensive ‘Pelican case’.
It looks quiet cool when you show up for a gig and your whole setup fits in that little case rolling behind you… Most the times I use the case to raise the working level for the Denon and the MacBook on my Ueberstand. I have some pics of that setup on my website:
http://www.callddocta.com/pics.html
Hope that helps you DJ Love, for your travel purposes I would definitely recommend this light plastic case over a heavy, bulky classic flight case!
Btw, for the last 15 years I used to be known as DJ Dr. Love, but recently I changed my name….
Cheers
D’ Docta
Increasing discussion that crazy! Quality vs performance!
[ link ]I’ve used various brands and models CDJs … 20 years ago I used my first, the CDJ DENON NF2000. I’ve used for years and never had problems, while other brands such as Pioneer models like wearing quickly. Then I bought a pair of DN-S5000 (DENON). Simply perfect and in tests with the CDJ 1000 (pioneer) and the CDJ-MK2 (Technics) I had no doubts about the quality of the final DENON. Today I have a pair of DN-HS 5500 with CD driver, which CDJs overall result in the creation of 900 and 2000 (Pioneer) and still lacks the robustness and availability of controlling up to two channels of a DJ software unit, as has the DN-HS 5500. I believe that DENON has taken the manufacturing because they fail to sell your equipment and even the MC6000, which has tested at a trade show of equipment manufacturers as well as other controllers. The controller’s own N.I. for Traktor does not compare to the MC600 in my opinion. So draw your conclusions by testing one by one and their answers will be there alone.
Now if you prefer to have available two CDJs with an ability to control software and a mixer with more features, effects, etc., I still would suggest for the DENON DN3700. Quality and reliability are the best allies when the cost benefit. Perfect combination! I’ve seen the failure of CDJs 2000 in a live presentation. It was frustrating!
Well, I got my MC6000 last week and it is awesome! Takes a little programming to get it how I like it, but its not bad with the included tsi. My only complaint is about musictrends (the place I purchased) they had a deal for a free odyssey glide style case, when I got the unit it had the non glide style case. I contacted them to return it and get the proper case and they change the website as I was on the phone and then said they couldn’t do anything for me, even after I put up a fight and told them I had screenshots of before they changed it. Horrible business practice, great mixer.
DJ Love – the odyssey case is nice, but only has enough room for cables. If you already have a bag for your laptop and other stuff, I’d recommend it. If not go with something like D’Docta said.
[ link ]I have a really anoying problem with my Denon dn-mc 6000. I only get sound from my speakers from both channels. As u can guess I want to be abble to have one of the tracks in the headphones. It has to have something to do with the settings! Can anyone help me please!
Btw love the product!! perfect with Traktor Pro 2
[ link ]It’s in your audio settings, this is a common problem. Your instruction book will solve it for you – look in the audio settings section.
[ link ]thank you fore replying, I can’t find it in the denon instruction book. Or did u mean the traktor pro instruction book? I would be more then pleased if u could help me out more?
[ link ]I have the MC 6000 and i love it, its easy to use, sounds really good, have all the bells and whistles you ever gona need, and the quality is way above any of the other competitors out there.
Sure its got only 2 channels for External mixing, and thats a shame, cause the analog mixer really KICKS ASS.
So thats the only gripe i really have, if you want 4 channels, well then you have to use PC MIX, but thats no real biggie!
Its really between NI S4 and Denon MC 6000, everything else, whats that? Controllers och Toys?
/Mdb
[ link ]