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Modified Denon DN-X300 ![]() When I was looking to purchase my first deejay mixer, I intended to find a durable, high quality unit that I could use for both scratching and club music. The Denon DN-X300 was a perfect choice; not only was relatively inexpensive compared to other 10 inch, 2 channel mixers, but it also had all the features I was looking for (3 band EQs, AUX input, mic channel, and adjustable crossfader curve). I ordered it new from agiprodj.com, a fantastic site for discount deejay equipment. ![]() A photo showing the rear inputs. Despite the great audio quality, the DN-X300's crossfader had a large amount of lag. That is, the fader had to travel relatively far from the post before the sound would switch on. This was not ideal for complex fader movements. ![]() After doing some research on the Denon DJ forums here, I learned about the "paperclip mod", a clever way to fix the fader lag by wrapping each fader posts with a paperclip. The first step is to remove all the knobs and fader caps from the mixer, and unscrew the faceplate as shown here. ![]() Next, the fader is removed from it's metal retention bracket. It simply unplugs from the mainboard. ![]() The DN-X300 uses a Penny & Giles fader, which is a nice step up from standard VCA faders in terms of feel and quality. The paperclip is bent and cut to fit snugly around each fader post. ![]() A photo showing both paperclips installed. ![]() With the paperclip mod completed, the fader is reconnected and placed back inside the mixer. ![]() With the mixer opened, I decided to modify the source select switches as well. By bending back the metal tab (as done on the switch on the left), you change them from 2-way "phono-line" switches to 3-way "phono-line-mute" transform switches. This allows you to transform the line inputs on and off just like a Rane TTM-56 (or similar). ![]() A final photo with the mixer re-assembled. It works great, and the mods have greatly improved the scratch performance of my sets! Costs:
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