stanton RM.404 Professional DJ Mixer Owner’s Manual

June 4, 2024
stanton

RM.404 Professional DJ Mixer

RM.404
Professional DJ Mixer
OWNER’S MANUAL
STANTON MAGNETICS, Inc. [email protected]
©2004 Stanton Magnetics, Inc.

Please read carefully before use of this product
Failure to follow the instructions printed below may void warranty
· Follow all security advice printed on your mixer
· When removing the unit’s AC plug from the power source, grasp and pull the plug, NEVER the cord itself!
· Avoid placing your mixer near heat sources, such as power amplifiers.
· When in use, place your mixer on a stable surface, away from vibration. Always use care when carrying your mixer. Impact, or heavy vibration may compromise the unit’s mechanical integrity. The manufacturer is not responsible for damage resulting from an impact, or misuse.
· When in use, place your mixer away from sources of hum or noise, such as transformers, or electric motors.
· To prevent overheating, always provide your mixer with adequate ventilation air space.
· Avoid stepping on your mixer’s AC cord. Repeated compression of the cord may lead to electrical shorting.
· To avoid damage due to AC voltage peaks, always disconnect your mixer from the power source during electrical storms.
· Your mixer contains no user-serviceable parts except for the crossfader. The manufactureris not responsible for any damage or personal injury resulting from unauthorized user-servicing or modifications. In addition, the warranty will be void if any unauthorized service by the user is detected. Always return you mixer to an authorized Stanton dealer for servicing.

Welcome
Congratulations and thank-you for purchasing the latest addition to the growing Stanton family. Sporting a new attitude, and a fresh, modern look, the RM.404 is a 4-channel, rackmount mixer loaded with features and innovations giving club and mobile DJs a powerful, yet simple tool to mix, create, and perform their best. 1/4″ and 1/8″ headphone outputs, XLR, RCA, and 1/4″ Master and Zone outputs, plus plenty of inputs, including one Mic input, and a separate 1/8″ jack for connecting portable devices such as iPodsTM, ensure the utmost in flexibility. Colored, backlit knobs, separate LED level indicators, gain and 3-band EQs on every channel with a fully assignable Crossfader, offer increased control and functionality. Thoughtfully designed and engineered to give you the most intuitive and instinctual experience possible, the RM.404 delivers all these features in a logical layout with quality components, all at an affordable price.
Stanton’s revolutionary Superior Sound Technology (SSTTM) also gives the RM.404 exceptional sound quality with audio specifications rivaling mixers costing up to four times as much. Developed from the ground up by a team of seasoned audio professionals who have designed world class professional recording studio and broadcast mixers, working hand in hand with experienced and respected DJs, SSTTM delivers a dynamic range better than 110 dB through ultra low-noise circuitry with a lower total harmonic distortion (THD) than other mixers in its class. Glass epoxy PC boards, surface mount technology, and faders that don’t bleed add to the superior construction standards. This equates to a cleaner, more transparent sound, allowing your music to be heard the way it was meant to. We’re proud to bring you the new look, feel and sound of Stanton.

RM.404 Top Panel (FUNCTIONS)
The controls and functions of the RM.404 are grouped in alphabetical sections (clockwise from upper right corner) for your reference and then listed numerically for more detail.

Section A: Section B: Section C: Section D: Section E: Section F: Section G:

Output Meters Output Controls Cue Controls Crossfader Controls MP3 / Aux In Mic Controls Channel Controls

RM.404 Top Panel (FUNCTIONS)
Section A: Output Meters
1. Meter Switch: Switches the display of the Level Meter (#2) between Master or Zone output signals. 2. Level Meter: Displays the left and right Master or Zone output level of the mixer. Red indicates clipping.

RM.404 Top Panel (FUNCTIONS)
Section B: Output Controls
3. Master Level: Controls the overall output level of the audio signal sent through the Master connectors (see Output Connections.) 4. Stereo/Mono Switch: Switches the Master output between a stereo or mono signal. Mono mode can be used to accommodate some large PA systems. It can also be engaged in the event of a sudden loss of stereo signal in phonograph cartridge connections [Stereo = UP position.] 5. Zone Level: Controls the output level of the audio signal sent through the Zone connectors (see Output Connections.) 6. Master Pan: Controls left/right signal balance of the Master Output (#3.)

RM.404 Top Panel (FUNCTIONS)
Section C: Cue Controls
7. Split Cue: Controls how the CUE will be heard in the headphones. In the “stereo” position, the pre-selected Cue (#29) will be heard as a stereo signal in the headphones (full stereo audio signal in both ears.) In “split” position, the pre-selected Cue (#29) will be heard on one side of the headphones, while the Master Output (#3) signal is heard on the other side (different audio signals in each ear.) 8. Headphone Output 1: Connection for 1/4 inch headphone (phono-jack.) Recommended headphone impedance is 32-200 ohms for maximum volume. 9. Headphone Output 2: Connection for 1/8 inch headphone (mini-jack.) Recommended headphone impedance is 32-200 ohms for maximum volume. 10. Cue Level: Controls the overall headphone output level of both output jacks. It is recommended that headphones with an impedance rating of 200 ohms or less be used for maximum volume. 11. Cue Pan: This controls the blend of audio signals that can be heard in the headphones. In the left-most “Cue” position, only channels selected by the Cue Assign switches (#29) will be heard. In the right-most “Master” position, only signals being sent to the Master Output (#3) will be heard in the headphones. Any setting inbetween provides a mix of both Cue and Master signals. This gives DJs the flexibility to choose how they wish to monitor audio signals, based on personal preference and technique.

RM.404 Top Panel (FUNCTIONS)
Section D: Crossfader Controls
12. Fader Start (A): Activates this side (A) of the Crossfader (#13) for use with components with the Fader Start feature. Moving the crossfader away from the left-most position will cause the device (CD / Turntable) to start playing. This allows DJs to activate a device by using the fader as if they were pressing Play. [Fader Start compatible device (CD / Turntable) is required. Fader Start cables need to be connected between the device and the appropriate input channel on the rear of the mixer].
13. Crossfader: Controls the audio signal that is sent to the Outputs (Section B.) When the Crossfader is in the left-most position (A), only the channel(s) set to (A) on their Crossfader Assign switch (#31) will be sent to the Outputs. When the Crossfader is in the right-most position (B), only the channel(s) set to (B) on their Crossfader Assign switch (#31) will be sent to the Outputs. This allows DJs to fade (mix) or cut (scratch) between different audio signals. When the Crossfader is somewhere in between the two extremes, a “blend” or “mix” between two signals occurs. [Note: if NO line channel(s) have been set to either A or B (using #31) then the Crossfader is bypassed. Also, if the appropriate Channel Fader (Line Fader) (#30) is set to zero, no sound will be output.] 14. Fader Start (B): Activates this side (B) of the Crossfader (#13) for use with components with the Fader Start feature. Moving the crossfader away from the right-most position will cause the device (CD / Turntable) to start playing. This allows DJs to activate a device by using the fader as if they were pressing Play. [Fader Start compatible device (CD / Turntable) is required. Fader start cables need to be connected between the device and the appropriate input channel on the rear of the mixer].

RM.404 Top Panel (FUNCTIONS)
Section E: MP3/Aux In
15. MP3 / Aux. Input: This 1/8″ Mini-jack (3.5 mm) input was designed for easy access and connectivity to a variety of portable devices (portable MP3 / mini-disc / CD players / iPods.) Use this input instead of having to re-wire the back panel of the mixer or use adapters.
Section F: Mic Controls

Section F: Mic Controls (continued)
16. Mic-1 XLR Input: Primary connection for a standard balanced (XLR) microphone.
17. Mic-1 1/4″ Input: Primary connection for a standard unbalanced (1/4″) microphone.
18. Mic Level: Controls the output level (volume) of Microphone 1 only (both connections.)
19. Mic EQ (HIGH): Controls High frequency equalization for BOTH microphones (+10/-10 dB.) [Note: Any changes made to EQ settings will affect the overall output level of the microphones.] 20. Mic EQ (MID): Controls Mid frequency equalization for BOTH microphones (+10/-10 dB.) [Note: Any changes made to EQ settings will affect the overall output level of the microphones.] 21. Mic EQ (LOW): Controls Low frequency equalization for BOTH microphones (+10/-10 dB.) [Note: Any changes made to EQ settings will affect the overall output level of the microphones.] 22. Mic Selector: Turns the mic(s) On or Off and activates the automatic Talk-over circuit. When activated, the automatic talk-over circuit reduces the music output allowing the mic to appear louder than the master audio signal.

RM.404 Top Panel (FUNCTIONS)
Section G: Channel Controls
23. Input selector switch: Selects phono or line input for the corresponding channel. This is a three way switch allowing input from only one device at a time (Phono or either of two Line level inputs (for connections in rear panel of mixer see Sections L-O.)) 24. Channel EQ (HIGH) : Controls High frequency equalization of corresponding channel (+9/-26 dB.) [Note: Any changes made to EQ settings will affect the overall output level of this channel.] 25. Channel Gain: Controls the input level (GAIN) of the corresponding channel. This control is Pre-EQ. Gain levels will differ between various types of devices (such as turntables or CD players) or different types of media. The Channel Gain allows DJs to compensate for these differences in order to maintain consistent sound levels between different pieces of music, as well as consistency between the different mixer channels. Be aware that turning

RM.404 Top Panel (FUNCTIONS)
Section G: Channel Controls (continued)
this setting too high may result in a loss of sound quality (distortion.) [Note: For best results set this control in the number 7 (2 O’Clock) position for unity gain. If further adjustment is needed, this is a good reference point.] 26. Channel EQ (MID) : Controls Mid frequency equalization of corresponding channel (+9/-26 dB.) [Note: Any changes made to EQ settings will affect the overall output level of this channel.] 27. Channel Input Meter: Displays the input level of this channel. The input level is determined by the Channel Gain controls (see #25.) Red indicates clipping.
28. Channel EQ (LOW) : Controls Low frequency equalization of corresponding channel (+9/-26 dB.) [Note: Any changes made to EQ settings will affect the overall output level of this channel.] 29. Cue (assign) : Selects the channel to be monitored via headphone Cue (Section C.)
30. Channel Fader (Line Fader) : Controls the output level of the corresponding channel. This control is Post-EQ and when NOT using Crossfader Assign (#31 = bypass) the signal is sent directly to the Master Output.
31. Crossfader Assign (A-B- BYPASS) : Controls where the audio signal for this channel will be sent; either to the Crossfader (#13) or to Master Output (#3.) When set to A, this channel will be assigned to the left side of the Crossfader. When set to B, this channel will be assigned to the right side of the Crossfader. When set to BYPASS, the Crossfader will be bypassed altogether and the audio is sent straight from the Line Fader (#30) to the Master Output (Section B.) [Note: This allows the DJ to mix with or without using the Crossfader].

RM.404 Rear Panel (FUNCTIONS)

Section H: Section I: Section J: Section K: Section L: Section M: Section N:
Section O:

Power Master Output Zone Output RCA Outputs Channel 4 Inputs Channel 3 Inputs Channel 2 Inputs
Channel 1 Inputs

Section H: Power

H. Power Switch & Connection: This is the ON/OFF power switch for the entire mixer. Only use the supplied adaptor (18v AC 1A) or one authorized by a Stanton dealer or our service department (make sure the AC cable is properly secured by the screw connection.) In order to protect the RM.404 and any equipment connected to it, make sure the unit is off before connecting the power or making any other connections. In addition, make sure all volumes are turned all the way down prior to following the proper power on/off sequence. When turning on your system, turn the RM.404 on first, followed by the rest of your equipment. When turning your system off, turn off the RM.404 last.

RM.404 Rear Panel (FUNCTIONS)
Section I: Master Output
I. Master Output Connection: These Right & Left XLR connections are used for the Master Output signal. Volume levels for this output are controlled by the section B front panel controls. NOTE: The TRIM knob sets the maximum volume allowed for this output (be sure it is set properly.) It should be used in conjunction with the Master Fader (#3) as well as individual Gain (#25) and Channel Faders (#30) when establishing optimal overall output for the RM.404 and the sound system it is connected to. It is recommended to consult an audio professional during this process.
Section J: Zone Output
J. Zone Connection: These Right & Left output connections are used for a secondary Master / Zone. Volume level for this output is controlled by section B front panel controls. Generally, this is used to connect to a pair of Booth Monitors to facilitate precise mixing and level control. Alternatively, it can be used to send sound to another part of the sound system (such as another room), or another completely independent sound system.
Section K: RCA Outputs
K. RCA Output Connections (Master, Zone, & Record) : This group of RCA connections are ALL outputs which correspond to the markings at the right of the connection. The Master and Zone connections mirror the output signals sent through sections (J) & (K). These are to be used when XLR or 1/4 inch connections are unavailable, as balanced XLR and 1/4 inch connections provide a cleaner signal than RCA connections. In order to record your sets, connect an appropriate recording device to the “REC” outputs via RCA cables. Volume levels for these outputs are also controlled by section B front panel controls except for “REC” which is pre-master signal.

RM.404 Rear Panel (FUNCTIONS)
Section L: Channel 4 Inputs
L. Channel 4 Input Connections: This group of connections are ALL inputs which are only routed to Channel 4 (select input using section G, (#23) from top panel.) Only two lines (L4, L8) and one phono (PH4) OR MIC 3 can be used as inputs here (the select switch located here toggles between PH4 and MIC 3.) NOTE: Line inputs are used to connect to line level sources such as CD players, samplers, tape players, etc. Phono inputs are used to connect only to turntables. Mic inputs connect directly to microphones. To prevent potential circuit damage, never connect line level source to phono inputs.
Section M: Channel 3 Inputs
M. Channel 3 Input Connections: This group of connections are ALL inputs which are only routed to Channel 3 (select input using section G, (#23) from top panel.) Only two lines (L3, L7) and one phono (PH3) OR CD can be used as inputs here (the select switch located here toggles between PH3 / CD.) The 1/8″ connection is used only for connecting devices with the Fader Start feature with the appropriate cables (to activate Fader Start for this channel see Section D) NOTE: Line inputs are used to connect to line level sources such as CD players, samplers, tape players, etc. Phono inputs are used to connect to turntables. Mic inputs connect directly to microphones. To prevent potential circuit damage, never connect line level source to phono inputs.
Section N: Channel 2 Inputs
N. Channel 2 Input Connections: This group of connections are ALL inputs which are only routed to Channel 2 (select input using section G, (#23)) from top panel.) Only two lines (L2, L6) and one phono (PH2) OR CD can be input here (the select switch located here toggles between PH2 / CD.) The 1/8″ connection is used only for connecting devices with the Fader Start feature with the appropriate cables (to activate Fader Start for this channel see Section D) NOTE: Line inputs are used to connect to line level sources such as CD players, samplers, tape players, etc. Phono inputs are used to connect to turntables. Mic inputs connect directly to microphones. To prevent potential circuit damage, never connect line level source to phono inputs.

RM.404 Rear Panel (FUNCTIONS)
Section O: Channel 1 Inputs
O. Channel 1 Input Connections: This group of connections are ALL inputs which are only routed to Channel 1 (select input using section G, (#23) from top panel). Only one line (L1) and one phono (PH1) can be input here. The “GND” connections are used only for phono inputs which require a Ground cable and can be used for any phono input on any channel. NOTE: Line inputs are used to connect to line level sources such as CD players, samplers, tape players, etc. Phono inputs are used to connect to turntables. Mic inputs connect directly to microphones. To prevent potential circuit damage, never connect line level source to phono inputs.

Application Example
This is a typical setup you’ll find in many nightclubs: 2 turntables, 2 CD players, plus a microphone for the DJ. Here’s how you would set up your equipment with the RM.404:
1. Be sure all equipment is powered “OFF” and all of the RM.404’s Channel faders and Level knobs are at minimum volume.
2. Connect the turntables to the Phono inputs of Channels 1and 4. Be sure the rear-panel toggle switch for Channel 4 is set to “PH2” or you won’t hear anything. To avoid hum, don’t forget to connect the ground wires to the grounding terminals.
3. Connect the CD players to the inputs of Channels 2 and 3.(if your CD player supports fader start connect applicable cables)
4. If you want to use the crossfader, set Channels 1 and 2 to “A” and Channels 3 and 4 to “B”. Otherwise, set them all to “Bypass”.
5. Depending on the type of cable you have, connect your microphone to the Mic 1 (1/4″ / XLR) input.
6. Connect the Master Output jacks to the club’s power amp, EQ or crossover. Then connect your monitor amp to the Booth output. If you have a separate amp for a particular area of the club, connect this amp to the Zone outputs.
7. Set the Input Selectors on the front panel to the appropriate inputs for each channel.
8. Power everything up and carefully adjust the input levels using the Input Gain knobs and Mic Level knob.
9. Slowly raise the Channel faders, Master fader, Booth level, Zone level and Mic level as appropriate and start mixing!

Superior Sound Technology
The audio quality of the RM.404 is nothing short of revolutionary for DJ mixers in its price class. The RM.404 was designed by Stanton’s new product development team, seasoned audio professionals who have designed world class professional recording studio and broadcast mixers and product managers who are working DJs and work closely with some of the world’s most respected DJs. They have taken their knowledge and experience to create the RM.404, a DJ mixer with superior audio quality and unprecedented value. Come hear the difference!

Technical Specifications
Line Inputs………………………………………………………………………7 x 2 (RCA) , -10 dBV / >10 kOhm 1 (1/8″ stereo mini-jack), 10 dBV / >10kOhm
Phono / CD Inputs……………………………..2 x 2 (RCA), -46 dBV / -10 dBV / 47 kOhm / >10 kOhm Phono……………………………………………………………………1 x 2 (RCA), -46 dBV (Phono) / 47 kOhm Phono / Mic Input…………………………….1 x 2 (RCA), -46 dBV (Phono) 1 x ( inch)­46 dBV (Mic) Mic Input…………………………………………………………………………1 (XLR or ”) -46 dBV / 2.4 kOhm Master Outputs……………………………………………………2 (XLR) balanced/ 1 x 2 (RCA) unbalanced
-2 dBu balanced / -10 dBV unbalanced Zone Outputs……………………………………………………….2 (1/4″) balanced /1 x 2 (RCA) unbalanced
-2 dBu balanced/ -10 dBV unbalanced Record Output………………………………………………………………….1 x 2 (RCA) unbalanced / -10 dBV Headphone Output…………………………………….1(1/4 inch), 1 (1/8 inch) greater than 32 Ohm load
Frequency Response…………………………………………………………………..20 Hz to 20 kHz +/- 1.5 dB EQ Mic……………………………………………………………………………….3 band +10 dB (Baxandall Type)
Channel……………………………………………………………….3 band +9 dB/-26 dB (Baxandall Type) Noise Floor Line in to Unbalanced Output……………………………………………………………………………….< -92 dBV Line In to Balanced Output……………………………………………………………………………………< -88 dBu Crosstalk Line to Phono Line to Line…………………………………………………………………………< -90 dB at 1 kHz Phono to Line…………………………………………………………………………………………..< -88 dB at 1 kHz Fader Kill (Channel and Crossfader)…………………………………………………………..< -90 dB at 1 kHz Max Output Level: (Unity Gain- Line Input)………………………………………………………………………..+18 dBV Unbalanced
+24 dBu Balanced Outputs S/N Ratio Line (Ref to Max. Level)DynamicRange…………………………………………………………………………> 110 dB T.H.D+N………………………………………………………………………………………………..< 0.005% at 1 kHz Dimensions (LxWxD)………18.9 in. x 8.7 in. x 5.25 in. (48 cm. x 22 cm. x 13 cm.) 5U rack spaces
Input without signal terminated with dummy plug.
REPLACEMENT PARTS
Faders: Crossfader: CF404
Power Supply: 110v PS16US (North & Central America and parts of South America) 220v PS16EU (Europe, Parts of Asia and South America and Rest of World) 240v PS16UK (U.K.)
To replace the cross or channel faders, follow step 1 of the cleaning instructions. Replacement parts are available from Stanton or your local Stanton dealer.

Troubleshooting

Problem / Symptom
No Sound
No Sound- Master Output (Booth and Zone are OK)

Possible Cause/ Solution
Is the power on? Check the power switch. Make sure the channels are assigned properly to the crossfaders. Make sure INPUT GAIN is turned up and output level control is turned up. Depending on the input, check the rear panel selector switches. Check the top panel channel selector switches.
Make sure that MASTER TRIM on the rear panel is turned up.

No Sound Headphones
Signal level is low even with the faders and input level controls turned up.

Do the headphones work with the CUE pan in the PROGRAM position but not PFL? If so, make sure that the channel PFL switches are engaged. Check the CUE LEVEL control.
Check to make sure the talk switch is NOT engaged on the microphone input.

Mixer sounds noisy

Check to make sure that the microphone levels are turned all of the way down if a microphone is not being used.

Microphone doesn’t work
Sound is distortedLine or CD input

Is the Mic gain turned up? Does the microphone require phantom power? This mixer does not provide microphone phantom power.
In general, turn down the INPUT GAIN CONTROL. The input signal may be too loud for the input gain control setting that you were using. If the distortion goes away, then you need to turn down the INPUT GAIN CONTROL.

Troubleshooting

Problem / Symptom
Sound is distorted Phono Input

Possible Cause/ Solution
Only plug turntables into this input, do not plug in CD players or other Line Level sources. Turn down the INPUT GAIN CONTROL

I hear hum.

Make sure you are using good shielded audio cables. Some less expensive audio cables can be susceptible to hum and interference. Keep your audio cables away from AC power cables and AC transformers. Make sure the mixer is not mounted too close to high power amplifiers or lighting equipment power supplies or ballasts. Make sure your turntables are properly grounded.

I hear feedback

If you are using a microphone, make sure that you are not too close to the speakers or headphones. If you hear feedback on the phono input, then the turntable may be mounted too close to the speakers. Also, make sure the turntable base is placed on a surface that does not vibrate or resonate easily when the speakers are turned up loudly.

Warranty
Stanton Magnetics, Inc. ­ Warranty Provision ­ Returns for Repairs or Replacement
Warranty Through Stanton’s authorized dealers around the World, Stanton, or one of Stanton’s authorized distributors outside the U.S., will, without charge, repair or replace, at the sole discretion of the entity responsible for making the repair or providing the replacement, any Stanton merchandise proved defective in material or workmanship for a period of one (1) year (three (3) years for C.D. players) following the date of original purchase. Exceptions to this warranty are as noted below:
The warranty for mechanical parts which are subject to wear and tear are limited to the earlier to occur of thirty (30) days following the date of original purchase or the following number of cycles: Faders 15,000; Rotary potentiometers – 10,000; and Switches – 10,000.
Stanton will warrant all replacement parts and repairs for ninety (90) days from the date of original shipment. Repairs made necessary by reason of misuse, alteration, normal wear, or accident are not covered under this warranty.
Returns Authorized Stanton dealers are only authorized to sell and distribute merchandise within a specific country. All goods requiring warranty repair or replacement must be returned (freight prepaid if not hand-delivered) to the authorized Stanton dealer from whom the merchandise was purchased and in the same country where the merchandise was purchased. For purposes of purchases made via the Internet, the merchandise must be returned to the authorized Stanton dealer in the country where the authorized Stanton dealer which sold the merchandise to purchaser is located and not the authorized Stanton dealer in the country where the purchaser is located or the country in which the merchandise was received. Any returns to a non-authorized dealer or to an authorized Stanton dealer not in the same country as the merchandise was intended to be sold or as set forth above will void this warranty.
To initiate a warranty repair, you must contact the authorized Stanton dealer from whom you purchased the merchandise, and follow such authorized Stanton dealer’s return policy.
Stanton assumes no risk and shall be subject to no liability for damages or loss resulting from the specific use or application made of the merchandise. Stanton’s liability for any claim, whether based on breach of contract, negligence, infringement of any rights of any party, or product liability, and relating to the merchandise shall not exceed the price received by Stanton from your purchase of such merchandise. In no event will Stanton be liable for any special, incidental or consequential damages (including loss of use, loss of profit and claims of third parties) however caused, whether by the negligence of Stanton or otherwise. To the extent permitted by law and except as otherwise provided above, Stanton disclaims any express or implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
The above warranty provides you with specific legal rights. You may also have additional rights, which are subject to variation from state to state and country to country.
If there is a dispute regarding the warranty of merchandise that does not fall under the warranty conditions stated above, please include a written explanation with the merchandise when returned pursuant to the terms and conditions set forth herein.
Please register your product online at www.stantondj.com or mail your completed warranty card to:
Stanton Magnetics, Inc, 3000 SW 42 St. Hollywood, Florida 33312.

References

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