FAQs

GENERAL INFORMATION

Can I have my mixer design layout changed?

We cannot change the layout for standard units, unless we go down the custom design path. As our current build schedule is very tight and custom builds are very time consuming (with uncertain wait times), we encourage customers to consider carefully what they need in a mixer and whether our standard units will fulfil their needs.

 

But I really want a custom built mixer… 

From time to time, we do take on custom projects and for these custom jobs we do charge an additional fee. Please contact us for more information.

 

Can I get my mixer built quicker than the current build times?

This is not possible as we have tight build schedule and expediting an order can mean pushing other waiting customers down the line. Please keep in mind that our ETAs can vary due to things like increased demand and unforeseen delays with suppliers. We’re currently very busy juggling builds and new designs as well trying our best to reduce wait times.

 

How does payment work?

We require a 50% deposit which is payable upon ordering. The final amount plus delivery costs are payable upon completion. We will email you directly once the order is complete.

 

What’s the difference between an IC and discrete audio circuit?

Discrete circuits include individual electronic components such as resistors, capacitors, diodes, transistors and other devices, as opposed to integrated circuits (ICs), which include these components on a chip. Proponents of discrete circuits argue that because discrete components are larger, they carry a higher voltage and are less susceptible to electrical interference. Condesa discrete circuits have a rich full & dynamic sound which is much harder to achieve with IC audio circuits.

 

Does the power supply work on different mains voltages, do I need a step-down transformer or an adaptor to plug it in?

The power supply that comes standard with all mixers is an automatic international mains switching device which works on 100vac to 240vac. They are suitable for all countries, however you will need to purchase a 3 pin mains IEC lead that is suitable to your country’s mains sockets (except Australian customers). Our linear PSU has a 100-240v selection switch allowing you to use it in most locations when paired with the correct IEC lead.

 

What’s the difference between 2 and 4 pole ISO versions?

A simple way to understand a 3 way ISO is that the stereo signal is split into 3 separate frequency bands either 2 pole filters or 4 pole filters) (low, mid, high). These bands are then sent to separate level controls (ie, 3 isolator knobs) and the signal from these level control knobs is then summed (mixed) back together to form a single stereo output.
 
The term “pole” is used to describe the measurement of degree at which the filters in the isolator rolls off at and the sonic separation of the 3 frequency bands, similar to analogue synth filters. 1 pole is equal to 6dB per octave, so 2 poles is in fact 2 x 6dB = 12dB per octave. The 4 pole is thus 24dB per octave.
 
So when it comes to deciding which option to get, it really comes down to personal preference.
 
The 4 pole offers a greater / steeper cut, so in effect it’s much sharper and more dramatic. The high frequency response is a little better and it offers more separation between the 3 frequency bands.
 
The 2 pole has a softer curve along with lovely musical quality and is less dramatic in use. It is still pretty powerful, however it’s just in comparison to the 4 pole.
 
Both of the 2 and 4 pole isolators offer full kill, meaning that each frequency band can be removed entirely – i.e, you can take the bass out so there is no bass in the music at all. The “pole” is just the degree of the slope at which each ISO “cuts.
 
 
Please contact for further information.

 

What is the linear PSU and what is the advantage of it?

The linear PSU (power supply unit) is an upgrade to the standard power supply that comes with all mixers. The linear PSU is heavier at 0.9kg and has a 100-240v mains selector switch. It offers cleaner voltage and improves the mixer’s sonic performance. Although it tests to have a better noise floor level, the standard PSU is also very good (-85dB at unity) and the audible difference sits outside the normal human hearing spectrum. We offer the linear PSU as an option more for HI-FI set ups and to give audiophiles the confidence they are doing the best they can with their sound.

 

What are the cue modification options and why is only one possible on the Lucia? 

We have 2 cue modifications available on the Lucia which allow you to switch from the standard cue/blend circuit to the modified circuit. The switch is placed above the cue/blend pot and due to available space internally and externally, only one switch is possible.
The cue/master allows you to cue the master output instead of the cued channel. This level is the final stereo mix and is beneficial if you like to check the mix in your headphones. The split cue allows you to cue mono left and right channels in their respective phones.

 

What is the FX send/return per channel option?

This is a modification to the internal FX routing. Standard builds come with the FX loop over the master output, meaning that if you run an external FX box (echo box, reverb pedal, delay etc.), then that effect will be over the master. The FX per channel modification allows you to effect the individual channels. For this we place a metal plate with 4 sends and 1 return on the front panel.

 

What is a mic input?

The mic input is an input connection allowing you to run a microphone through the mixer. The input is only available on our 4 channel unit mixers and is not possible on the Lucia due to available space internally and externally. The placement of the input is dependent upon the model and specs, however usually we fit it to the rear input plate as a TRS connection and is routed to channel 1. The level is controllable via the CH1 fader and the input can be toggled from LN/MIC via a switch on the rear plate. For mixers with the FX per channel modification, you can effect the mic input.

 

What is an additional phono preamp?

The additional phono preamp is an extra phono input available for the Carmen and Allegra models. It allows you to route an additional turntable into one of the channels. This modification is typically fixed and not switchable to another input.

 

Can I get a travel case with my mixer?

We offer black PVC safe cases for both the Carmen and Lucia mixers and are available from $105 AUD*.

Travel cases for the Allegra and Clara units are not available.

 

Why are Condesa mixers much louder than regular mixers?

The Condesa’s discrete output amps have lots of gain to ensure you never run out of level (headroom). This also ensures that our mixers have dynamic sound characteristics. You may not need all of the level that the mixer provides, but having this headroom means that the mixer will never clip the audio signal.

 

What’s the unity gain position of the channel faders and master volume on my mixer?

The channel faders are at 7.5 and the master is at 4.5 (first dot is 0).

 

What on earth is unity?

Unity is the point or level at which you are adding 0dB from the mixer. Achieving unity gain essentially means that you are matching your output signal as close as possible to your input signal level.

 

What wood do you use for the cases?

All our woods are sourced and handcrafted locally. The cases we offer are:

Dark Wood – Australian Blackwood

Blonde – Tasmanian Oak

Black Stain – Stained Tasmanian Oak

 

I have noticed that the wood shades look different to the pictures on the website?

Due to the nature of wood, we cannot guarantee an exact match. Wood grains will vary as will the shades of each wood type. 

 

I want to change or cancel my order. Is it possible?

As all our units are handmade to order, changing your order can be a little tricky and ultimately impact on our overall production timeline. That said, we do understand it can be a difficult decision to make, so we offer a 2 week buffer period from date of order to swap unit, add/change modification or cancel without incurring a fee.

For changes and cancellations made after the 2 week buffer period, a minimum of a $50 AUD* fee may be charged. 

Orders that are changed will incur additional wait time due to the manual labour required to either add / remove a modification or start a build from scratch.

Please note that any refunds made will not include the processing fees charged by third party payment sites.

 

SHIPPING INFORMATION

Where do you ship to and how much will it cost me?

Our rates may vary depending upon delivery location and total weight of shipment, however for most Australian locations we charge $88 AUD** and $260 AUD for most international locations. For local shipments, we use an express door-to-door courier service and for all international shipments we use DHL express. All shipments are insured, trackable and require a signature upon delivery. Please note that rates are based on single units and prices will change for multiple mixers. For further information about our shipping policy and rates, please contact us.

 

What is your returns policy?

We accept returns within 14 days of receiving the order. The order must be in original condition without damage from the user.

All refunds exclude import taxes, duties and any other fees associated with the purchase.

Returns will be organised through our shipping service with costs passed onto the customer, unless the return is faulty or has been damaged in shipping.

 

Will there be import tax added to my mixer when it arrives in my country?

Yes this is possible. Import duties, taxes and brokerage fees are not included in the product price or shipping. These charges are the customer’s responsibility. Please ensure to check with your country’s Customs Office on what rates they charge on imports.

 

Warranty?

All our products include a 2 year warranty period which we calculate from the date the item is delivered. That said, we love what we do and will always do our best to support the product even if out of the warranty period.

 

*excluding GST for Australian customers only

**including GST for Australian customers only


Any unanswered questions? Contact Us