Xone:92 vs Xone:96 – Full Comparison (2025) + New Xone:92 MK2 Update

If you are deciding between these two mixers and want to understand what has changed with the new Xone:92 MK2 released in 2024, this guide walks you through every important detail.

The Xone:92 and Xone:96 are two of the most influential club mixers ever made.

At first glance they look almost identical, but under the hood there are major differences that change how they feel, how they sound, and how they integrate into a modern DJ setup.

The Xone:92 was released in 2004 and quickly became a worldwide club standard. Fifteen years later, Allen & Heath introduced the Xone:96 as a modern and digitally connected evolution of the original design.

1. Connectivity: Analog Classic vs Digital Flexibility

Xone:92 – Fully Analog

The Xone:92 is a pure analog mixer with no USB ports and no integrated sound card.
If you want to use Traktor, Ableton or record your sets digitally, you will need an external audio interface.

Xone:96 – Dual USB + 32-bit Sound Card

The Xone:96 introduces a wide range of digital options.
It includes two USB ports, a 24-channel 32-bit audio interface and the ability to connect two laptops simultaneously. This allows seamless B2B sets, fast DJ transitions and direct recording without any additional equipment.

The Xone:92 keeps everything fully analog while the Xone:96 offers complete digital integration.

2. EQ & Sound Shaping

Both mixers offer Allen & Heath’s signature 4-band analog EQ, known for being smooth, musical, and powerful.

The Xone:96 expands on this with a parametric EQ on the send and return section and an additional parametric EQ for the booth output. These extra controls make the 96 more adaptable in complex setups or live environments.

3. Filters: LFO vs Crunch

The filter section is one of the defining characteristics of Xone mixers, and the two models approach it differently.

Xone:92

• Dual VCF filters
• Includes an LFO to create rhythmic, automatic modulations
• Has the well-known “click” when turning the filters on/off

Xone:96

• Dual VCF filters
• Replaces the LFO with Crunch, which adds a layer of harmonic texture
• Silent switching with no audible clicks

The Xone:92 feels more expressive and experimental thanks to the LFO, while the Xone:96 delivers a cleaner and more polished result.

4. Cue & Monitoring

Xone:92

• Simple single cue system

Xone:96

• Dual Cue system
• Two DJs can pre-listen to different channels simultaneously
• Booth EQ helps tailor monitoring in loud environments

This is a significant upgrade for B2B sessions and club installations.

5. Master Section & Build Quality

Xone:92

The Xone:92 has been used in clubs and festivals for over two decades. Its construction is extremely robust and compact, and the faders feel smooth, light and very responsive.
The crossfader follows the classic Allen & Heath style. It is not an Innofader, but it is reliable and well-built.

Xone:96

The Xone:96 has a slightly wider layout, giving more space between EQ knobs. It remains solidly built, although it has not yet accumulated the long-term testing that the 92 has. It includes an Innofader for sharper cuts and scratching. Some DJs mention that the faders feel firmer and that cue buttons are less tactile compared to the 92.

The Xone:92 is a proven workhorse, while the Xone:96 delivers a more modern feel with advanced features, although it is still building long-term reputation.

6. Phono Inputs & Sound Quality

Xone:92

The Xone:92 is appreciated for its warm analog sound, but its phono preamps are not very strong. When playing vinyl you often need to increase the gain significantly.

Xone:96

The Xone:96 improves the phono stage with more headroom and lower noise. It offers more clarity and punch, especially when mixing vinyl. The difference between phono and line level is also more evident.

Vinyl users will notice a clear improvement on the Xone:96.

7. Which Mixer Fits You Better?

If you are trying to understand which model fits your workflow, these points may help you decide:

Go for the Xone:92 if you…

• Don’t use DJ software
• Prefer a pure analog workflow
• Want a lower price point (often around 600 euros cheaper)
• Enjoy light and smooth faders
•  Want a club classic that many DJs learned on

Go for the Xone:96 if you…

• DJ with a laptop or hybrid setup
• Want a future-proof mixer
• Need dual USB for B2B sets or smooth transitions
• Prefer improved phono performance for vinyl
• Manage a club or event space that hosts different types of DJs
• Want more flexibility in routing and monitoring

8. The New Xone:92 MK2 (2024): What’s Improved

Allen & Heath released an updated version of the Xone:92 in 2024. The MK2 keeps the original signal path but upgrades important components.

The main improvements include:

• Better phono preamps
• Silent filter switching with no clicks
• Updated Innofader for the crossfader
• A more versatile EQ section
• Improved circuitry and components
• Enhanced output structure and gain

The MK2 keeps the soul of the original Xone:92 while addressing its main limitations.

Final Thoughts: Xone:92, Xone:96 or Xone:92 MK2?

All three mixers are excellent choices and the right option depends entirely on your workflow.

If you are an analog purist, value simplicity or want the best price available, the Xone:92 is ideal. Today it is only available through Sounds Market, where you can purchase it refurbished with a one-year warranty.

If you want USB connectivity, digital routing, improved phono performance and modern monitoring features, the Xone:96 is the better choice.

If you love the Xone:92 but prefer an updated version with improved components and features, the Xone:92 MK2 fits perfectly.

At Sounds Market, we offer all these mixers refurbished with a one-year warranty and tested by specialised technicians.
If you need help choosing the best one for your needs, feel free to contact us or visit our website.

Check our video to learn the main differences between Xone:92 and Xone:96: