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Description

Introducing the Roland AIRA MX-1, a revolutionary mix performer that serves as the nerve center of your electronic music rig. This versatile instrument combines the functions of a mixer, control surface, audio interface, and step-based effector into one cohesive unit. With the Roland AIRA MX-1, you don't just mix, you perform.

Equipped with six analog inputs, four AIRA Link USB ports, digital I/O, send and return jacks, the MX-1 seamlessly brings together an array of musical sources, putting them at your fingertips. It boasts DJ-style headphone cue monitoring allowing for smooth transitions and beat perfect track drops. The solid faders, each with six available volume curves, and adjustable Tone/Filter knob, offer precise control of your mix.

The MX-1 doesn't stop at mixing. It integrates effects in exciting new ways, with each channel featuring its own Beat FX including Filter, Side Chain, and Slicer. The Beat FX can be manipulated using the 16 TR-style step sequencer buttons, allowing for intricate rhythmic variations and polyrhythms. To top it off, six kinds of Master FX add drama and spice to your performance.

Key Features:

  • 18 channel performance mixer with step-sequenced FX, transport, and tempo control
  • Three kinds of step-sequenced Beat FX (Filter, Side Chain, Slicer) with TR-style buttons
  • Six kinds of Master FX (48 variations) with a large performance control knob
  • Four AIRA Link USB ports supporting audio, MIDI, sync, and bus power (on Port 3) for AIRA gear
  • DJ-style cue monitoring, quick mutes, and six fader curves per channel
  • Per-channel Tone/Filter knob with ten kinds of EQs, filters, and isolators
  • Transport and tempo control with fine, shuffle, and tap-tempo functions
  • Ability to instantly save and recall complete setups including all FX configurations.

Product specs

Brand Roland
Model AIRA MX-1 Mix Performer
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Categories Audio Mixers, Consoles and Summing Boxes

FAQs

What are the main connectivity options for the Roland AIRA MX-1?

The Roland AIRA MX-1 offers USB, MIDI, and AIRA Link connectivity, allowing integration with computers, MIDI devices, and other Roland AIRA gear. It also features multiple analog inputs for versatile audio routing.

Is the Roland AIRA MX-1 compatible with Ableton Live?

Yes, the Roland AIRA MX-1 is compatible with Ableton Live and even comes with Ableton Live Lite, making it an excellent choice for live performance and studio integration.

Can the Roland AIRA MX-1 be used as an audio interface?

Yes, the Roland AIRA MX-1 functions as an audio interface, providing up to 18 channels of audio transmission to your DAW, with selectable sample rates of 44.1, 48, or 96kHz.

What unique features does the Roland AIRA MX-1 offer for live performances?

The Roland AIRA MX-1 includes features like Beat FX, Master FX, and a step-sequencer for dynamic, real-time audio manipulation, making it ideal for live performances and DJ sets.

How does AIRA Link work with the Roland AIRA MX-1?

AIRA Link allows the MX-1 to serve as a central hub, connecting and controlling up to four AIRA devices via USB, streamlining integration with Roland's synths, groove boxes, and drum machines.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Roland AIRA MX-1 Mix Performer Demo by Sweetwater Sound

Video thumbnail for Roland AIRA MX-1 Mix Performer Demo by Sweetwater Sound by Sweetwater

Roland AIRA MX-1 Mix Performer Demo by Sweetwater Sound

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for AIRA Start - MX-1 (a short tutorial) by RolandChannel

AIRA Start - MX-1 (a short tutorial)

RolandChannel

RolandChannel

Video thumbnail for MX-1 Mix Performer with Ableton Live and TR-8 by RolandChannel

MX-1 Mix Performer with Ableton Live and TR-8

RolandChannel

RolandChannel

Video thumbnail for AIRA - MX-1 Mix Performer by RolandChannel

AIRA - MX-1 Mix Performer

RolandChannel

RolandChannel

Video thumbnail for Bad Gear - Roland Aira MX-1 Mixer by AudioPilz

Bad Gear - Roland Aira MX-1 Mixer

AudioPilz

AudioPilz

Video thumbnail for DJ Jazzy Jeff on AIRA MX-1 by RolandChannel

DJ Jazzy Jeff on AIRA MX-1

RolandChannel

RolandChannel

Video thumbnail for Roland AIRA MX-1 Mix Performer Demo by Kraft Music

Roland AIRA MX-1 Mix Performer Demo

Kraft Music

Kraft Music

Video thumbnail for Roland AIRA MX-1 Mix Performer | N Stuff Music by N Stuff Music

Roland AIRA MX-1 Mix Performer | N Stuff Music

N Stuff Music

N Stuff Music

Reviews

PROS

  • Functions as a mixer, audio interface, and MIDI controller

  • Step sequenced FX for unique sound manipulation

  • Seamless integration with Ableton Live

  • 18 mappable channels for diverse setups

  • USB connections for easy integration with AIRA gear

  • Onboard effects are intuitive and offer creative flexibility

  • Mastering function enhances live sound quality

  • Hands-on UI that encourages creative exploration

  • Plug and play with minimal setup required

  • Useful for both studio and live performances

CONS

  • Lacks a comprehensive EQ and compression features

  • Limited sequencing capabilities

  • High price point compared to feature set

  • Insufficient output options for complex setups

  • Some users find built-in sequencing and effects underwhelming

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland AIRA MX-1.

Features and functionality

  • The MX-1 includes SPDIF I/O, beneficial for integrating specific digital equipment like Emu gear, enhancing sound quality.

    Source
  • The MX-1 can pair channels for stereo input, making it versatile for different audio configurations, especially in DAW environments.

    Source
  • Owners desire all stereo channels and additional channels, inserts, and sub outputs to enhance the MX-1's versatility.

    Source
  • The lack of MIDI note transmission to AIRA Link devices is a critical limitation, complicating DAWless setups and requiring additional MIDI solutions.

    Source
  • USB4 channel on the MX-1 might not output sound or sync tempo like other AIRA devices, indicating limitations in device compatibility.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Its sequenced effects are particularly engaging for live performances, especially the sidechain simulator, which can be applied selectively per track.

    Source
  • The device is favorable for setups involving multiple Roland AIRA devices, providing power and connectivity through its USB ports.

    Source
  • The MX-1 integrates well with multiple AIRA devices, but MIDI functionality limitations hinder its potential as a central hub for a DAWless setup.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Owners highlight slow initial connection times to PCs, with multiple audio sources taking up to 2 minutes to be recognized.

    Source
  • The MX-1 excludes MIDI notes from DIN MIDI input to USB ports, a strategic decision limiting its use as a complete MIDI interface.

    Source
  • J-6 requires AIRA LINK to be set to “ON” for USB connection with MX-1, necessitating a power cycle for activation.

    Source
  • MX-1 firmware, last updated in 2016, lacks support for newer Roland Boutique series over USB, impacting integration with recent devices.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The MX-1's RCA jacks for aux FX sends are noted as a limitation compared to the Soundcraft 12 MTK's more flexible routing and higher audio resolution.

    Source

Build quality

  • Users report noise issues with the faders, suggesting potential internal quality concerns that affect performance.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users experience persistent MIDI sync issues despite trying various configurations and updates, indicating potential flaws in the unit or setup challenges.

    Source

Other

  • The absence of balanced XLR outputs is noted, with balanced TRS being the standard for synths, suggesting room for improvement in output options.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Roland Aira MX-1 Mix Performer review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Roland AIRA MX-1 Mix Performer offers a solid blend of analog and digital connectivity, making it a versatile tool for both live and studio setups. Its flexible modes and compatibility with Roland products are commendable. However, the limited EQ capabilities and default effects settings can be overly aggressive, which might not suit all users. The single stereo channel for the TR-8 is a noticeable shortcoming, especially given its performance focus. While innovative, the MX-1 might not meet all needs, but it holds appeal for those interested in integrating hardware with laptop-based production.

Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 8 Reviews and 62 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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qthj
qthj

152

Incredibly fun, super flexible, and addicting

I spent a lot of time debating whether or not the MX-1 was worth it, or whether it fit a real purpose in my set up. I purchased it rather impulsively and have never looked back.

I love this mixer, and it now is truly the centerpiece of my live and studio set ups. Everyone in audio knows there is something about getting your hands on a mixer that is undeniably satisfying. I was happy to find that the MX-1 provides that and so much more. From the digital/analog split flexibility, to variety of I/Os which can handle the majority of what a modern production studios will have to offer.

But that's still just the beginning. The MX-1's effects section allows control of parameters on all 16ch. Individually, as well as a master effects section for the main mix. Filter, Delay, Flanger, Bit Crush, Scatter and Roll are all perfectly adjusted and ready to lock into tempo to provide great sounding effects almost too easily. In the mixer section, each channel follows the simple yet flexable scheme featuring tone/filter knob and [BFX] and [MFX] to engage/disengage processing. A [Select] button allows individual, or grouped control of Gain, Panning, and other channel settings. I haven't even started to talk about its DAW compatability or External mixing ability......

I could keep going but I think I'm going to take a break and play with it for a while. Wow.

gchiaren

This is a great review, thanks so much for sharing your thoughts! :)

john_withers

Great mixer with neat features.

Bought this when I was in my Aira phase and it worked great with all the Aira stuff hooked up. The effects make this a great performance mixer...only I seldom perform hehe so while I could stutter my beats and dream of being on the stage I found I didn't have enough hands to do everything I wanted to. I also never really set it up to be recorded for very long but I like to know its there should I decide to go back to it! It really is a great mixer and so much more!

jaxager

Loving this little sucker!

This is a very fun mixer. It is best if you have other Aira gear to go with it. I have a TR-8S, an MC-707,and an MC-101 plugged into it. As soon as I plugged my Aira gear into it, it recognized it right off the bat. No settings to fiddle with. The FX you can run through all of the channels or individually per channel. It is like it's a whole new instrument. Love it!

earthside_mixlab

Huge Potential

I am very impressed by the versatility of the MX-1. Being able to tie my DAW seamlessly to the rest of my AIRA gear and pretty much any instrument with an audio output is allowing my performance and production to take great strides. With all the onboard effects and functions, it does almost everything I would want a mixer to do. The only thing I would like from this device that it doesn't deliver is a three-band EQ, but the existing EQ functionality is efficient and sufficient enough. Otherwise, a very powerful tool that has become the hub of my rig.

spaker

The most innovative controller of 2015

Built in sequencer. 18 mappable channels. AIRA gear all connects via USB. ANY other audio gear can be an (global FX capable) input and sync'd by MX-1 with a MIDI cable or USB. Ties AIRA together into a true performance mixer. I already called my TR8 "revolutionary," but that's the only word for the MX1 that exists: REVOLUTIONARY.

alfa_trax

digital mixer

great for live performance, 18 inputs, but only 6 of them are analog

freakaudio

5 of 5

Wow this system can completely replace loads of hardware to software inputs and outputs. And it got a boat load of features even mastering. A must

jeffersonweber

Really a lot of fun to use

Great performance mixer i use it with my Roland AIRA gear and Roland Boutique Synths.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Alan Walker uses Roland AIRA MX-1

Alan Walker

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video "Alan Walker - Sing Me To Sleep & Faded (Live VG-Lista 2016)," Alan Walker is seen using the Roland AIRA MX-1, positioned to the right of his keyboard and synth setup.

See how Paul van Dyk uses Roland AIRA MX-1

Paul van Dyk

Music Producer, DJ

BT & Paul van Dyk

...
Verified via Photo

You can see the Mixer Reference in the back

See how Richard Devine uses Roland AIRA MX-1

Richard Devine

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

can be seen behind the Elektrons at 0:15

See how DJ Jazzy Jeff uses Roland AIRA MX-1

DJ Jazzy Jeff

Music Producer, DJ

The Roots

...
Verified via Photo

This Instagram post shows DJ Jazzy Jeff using a Roland AIRA MX-1.

See how KiNK uses Roland AIRA MX-1

KiNK

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

"Here im using the Roland MX-1 digital mixer with analog gear..." "The keyboard doesnt have any sequencing functions, memory or effects, so I`m animating the sound entirely with the MX-1." "The slicing / pitching pattern in MX-1 was programmed before shooting the video."

See how Justin Broadrick uses Roland AIRA MX-1

Justin Broadrick

Singer, Guitarist

Isis

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, Justin Broadrick is performing live as JK Flesh moniker, using a Roland MX-1 performer\controller\mixer. as you can see starting at 4:50.

See how Robin Schulz uses Roland AIRA MX-1

Robin Schulz

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

A Roland Aira MX-1 Mix Performer can be seen in Robin Schulz's Studio at 55m54s and 1h20m50s.

See how Giuseppe Ottaviani uses Roland AIRA MX-1

Giuseppe Ottaviani

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

Ottaviani uses the gear on sec 18 of the video.

See how Claude VonStroke uses Roland AIRA MX-1

Claude VonStroke

Music Producer

Claude VonStroke & Bootsy Collins

...
Verified via Photo

Didn't get a great shot of this one but I think live performers will be into this thing it's like a mixer/master clock with step sequencing and fx

See how Joseph Capriati uses Roland AIRA MX-1

Joseph Capriati

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post, Joseph Capriati is pictured using the Roland AIRA MX-1 in his studio, coinciding with the release of the first vinyl from his label, Redimension.

See how Jody Wisternoff uses Roland AIRA MX-1

Jody Wisternoff

Music Producer

Way Out West

...
Verified via Facebook

can be seen in this post from April 16, 2020

See how Bon Harris uses Roland AIRA MX-1

Bon Harris

Composer

Nitzer Ebb

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video by Voltage Control Lab, Bon Harris discusses his intricate rack mount system, which prominently features the Roland AIRA MX-1.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Roland AIRA MX-1, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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