MasterSounds, the mind-meld between Ryan Shaw and Andy Rigby-Jones, has debuted the third generation of its Radius 2 and Radius 4 DJ mixers, which contain various technology enhancements and sport a more affordable price point. Originally launched in 2016, the two-channel Radius 2 rotary DJ mixer was followed by the introduction of the four-channel Radius 4 mixer, two valve-based versions (the Radius Two and Four Valve), an FX unit and dedicated LinearPOWER supply accessory.
The new generation Radius 2 and 4 claims to offer clean, open, and dynamic sonic quality on both LINE and RIAA inputs, as well as improved usability. Both mixers are said to feature analog VU meters, a Master EQ/Isolator, a hi-pass filter on each channel, and an AUX send/Return system with insert button for integration of external effects, including MasterSounds own FX unit. Radius 4 also includes 2 mic inputs, selectable via the rear panel.
“Four years on, and the brand has seen remarkable growth but the higher production costs of a premium rotary mixer rule them out for DJs on a tighter budget,” states MasterSounds’ founder, Ryan Shaw. “Designer, Andy Rigby-Jones, and I decided to do something about it, by redesigning the compact Radius 2 and Radius 4 to make them more affordable but without compromising any of the features, the feel, or the audio fidelity of the original model.”
To redesign the mixers in order to shave costs, MasterSounds went back to the drawing board to see where they could simplify the circuitry without impairing performance. The biggest change was to the internal construction and PCB board shapes, where they optimized them for maximum efficiency through in-house fabrication, which has made them a lot easier to manufacture. The third generation mixers all claim to feature Alps pots/switches, close tolerance resistors/capacitors, and Panasonic electrolytics.
Union Audio has undergone radical changes since Radius 2’s inception four years ago, which has enabled the team to implement the new design changes. Moving into a new unit in 2017, Rigby-Jones has developed a sophisticated design and production facility, coupling traditional analog engineering with ultra-high specification manufacturing.
MasterSounds Radius 2 DJ mixer now costs £799 and Radius 4 will set you back £1089.
MasterSounds
