KAM KCM 400

I got a KAM KCM 400 when I retired an old Intimidation Blue after many faithful years. I needed a 3 channel mixer and was advised this was a good choice. I'm conflicted as to whether I made a good purchase or not, but for £150 I doubt I could get much better. It does the job.

Quality of build is nothing to complain about, apart from a flaw in the design f the faders where the fader level is grooved to clip the plastic handle on, making it a weak point. This has meant an emergency replacement a week before a gig, costing £40-odd.

I like the fact the EQs are total kills - even the Xone mixers don't kill - but that's just personal preference. The optical crossfader is very sturdy and reliable, and the fade curve can be adjusted to suit.

My biggest gripe with the 400 is playing more than one channel seems to cause the output volume to increase, meaning mixes sound distorted and overpowering. I end up having to tweak to gains to keep things sensible, which isn't a problem, just a hassle.

For now, this mixer does what it says on the tin, but one day I will own a Korg Zero 4... oh yes!