Allen & Heath Xone:96: Successor to the Club Classic Xone:92
· re:union Radio editorial · 3 min read
The Allen & Heath Xone:96 follows the Xone:92: 6+2 channels, dual VCF filters with Crunch distortion, and a 32-bit dual sound card interface.
The Allen & Heath Xone:96 takes over from the acclaimed Xone:92, bringing its analog signal path into a contemporary chassis with digital connectivity. As a 6+2 channel mixer with a built-in audio interface, it's aimed at DJs who rely on a continuously analog signal path in the club or during back-to-back sets.
At a glance
- 6+2 channel analog mixer with four main channels (4-band EQ) and two stereo returns (3-band parametric EQ)
- Dual Xone:VCF filters (HPF, BPF, LPF) with new CRUNCH distortion before the filter
- Two independent USB sound cards with 32-bit/96kHz and 6 stereo inputs/outputs each, Traktor Scratch certified
- Dimensions without packaging: 336 × 410 × 109 mm, weight 7 kg
The Xone:92 as a starting point
Allen & Heath themselves describe the Xone:96 as “the follow-up to a genuine club classic": The manufacturer wanted to preserve the “huge, detailed, space-shaking analogue sound" of the Xone:92 and enhance it with modern connectivity. If you're familiar with its predecessor, you'll immediately feel at home with the layout — the four main channels still feature the familiar 4-band EQ, which the manufacturer states is appreciated by numerous international DJs. New additions include two stereo return channels with full 3-band parametric EQ for more control over additional signal sources.
Dual VCF filters with Crunch
The core of every Xone mixer is the VCF filter, and the Xone:96 continues this tradition with two independent filter units. In addition to the classic setup of high-pass, band-pass, low-pass, resonance, and frequency sweep, Allen & Heath has added a new feature called CRUNCH: a controlled harmonic distortion that sits before the filter in the circuit. All six main channels can be routed to either of the two filters, allowing for flexible live transitions between two differently sounding filter paths.
Two sound cards for back-to-back sets
Technically remarkable is the dual USB connectivity: The Xone:96 features two separate 32-bit sound cards with a 96 kHz sample rate, each with six stereo inputs and outputs. Together with two independent headphone cue systems, this enables seamless handovers between two DJs without re-plugging cables. The card also supports DVS control for Traktor Scratch Pro 3 out of the box.
| Channels | 6+2 (4 main channels with 4-band EQ, 2 stereo returns with 3-band parametric EQ) |
|---|---|
| Filter | 2× Xone:VCF (HPF/BPF/LPF, resonance, frequency sweep) with CRUNCH distortion |
| Interface | 2× USB sound card, 32-bit/96kHz, 6 stereo I/O each, Traktor Scratch certified |
| Faders | 60mm VCA linear faders, crossfader with Innofader Mini |
| Connectivity | 2 FX sends, 4 stereo returns, Master insert, X-Link for Xone:K controllers, MIDI via USB/5-pin |
| Dimensions (without box) | 336 × 410 × 109 mm |
| Weight (without box) | 7 kg |
“Xone:96 lets you connect your whole rig, from laptops and turntables, to pedals, synths and drum machines."
“Nothing comes close to the sound and power of the Xone VCF filter. In Xone:96 we've refined this classic design, preserving its unmistakable sonic signature while taking its performance to the next level."
On the rear, in addition to the analog inputs and outputs, the Xone:96 offers two FX sends, four stereo returns, and a master insert for external outboard equipment. Send 1 can be switched between line and Hi-Z levels, making it suitable for guitar pedals. Xone:K controllers can also be connected via X-Link without occupying another USB port on your laptop.
For beginners planning a more affordable setup, it's worth taking a look at our guide to DJ setups under 500 Euros. If you want to delve deeper into the interplay of EQ and filters, you'll find our article on EQ mixing for DJs helpful.
FAQ
Is the Xone:96 compatible with the Xone:92?
The Xone:96 adopts the basic layout of the Xone:92 but is a standalone, newly developed device with additional digital connectivity. According to the manufacturer, those accustomed to the Xone:92 will immediately feel at home.
Who is the Xone:96 designed for?
Allen & Heath positions the mixer for club and venue installations, as well as for DJs who value a continuously analog signal path with a high-quality digital interface, for example, for back-to-back sets with two independent sound cards.
