At IMS 2026, we caught up with Marco Faraone following his AlphaTheta RMX-IGNITE masterclass – ALPHATHETA PRESENTS: RMX-IGNITE – Deep Dive, Tips & Tricks with Marco Faraone to talk about new technology, balance, and what it really takes to succeed in today’s scene. Marco is known for his powerful yet versatile sets and his ability to move seamlessly between house and techno. He has firmly established himself as a key figure in the scene, and through his label UNCAGE and its event series, he continues to push the boundaries of electronic music.
Interview With Marco Faraone:
Hi Marco, How are you?
I’m good, thank you.
You just created a big buzz at the AlphaTheta Academy while testing the new RMX-IGNITE. What do you think about this new equipment?
Technology is constantly evolving, and this machine is simply the next step forward. The RMX-1000 is around 14 years old now, so naturally it started to feel outdated compared to everything else on the market. AlphaTheta definitely needed this upgrade, especially since all the mixer routing and sound processing runs through this unit. The quality has to be top level, and I think they’ve achieved that. It’s a very interesting machine — a hybrid between a drum machine and an effects unit, with multiple parameters to play with. What makes it exciting is the creative freedom. You can load your own samples and really shape the sound to make it your own. I’m still practicing with it, but I’m getting there.
AlphaTheta also introduced mindset talks and yoga sessions at IMS. How important is it for you to keep a clear mind as an artist?
Balance is everything. I stopped drinking alcohol for a while — of course, I still enjoy a glass of wine with friends, but I’ve moved away from that lifestyle of sleepless nights. I also have a family now — a daughter — and that completely changed my perspective. It gives me focus. When I come home, I want to feel good, present, and in control. There was a time for craziness, and now there’s a time for stability — and I’m really happy with that balance. It also helps a lot with touring. You need to be ready, focused, and full of energy for every show.
What would you recommend to young artists who want to succeed today?
Create your own thing. Don’t look at others — be unique. Develop your own sound, your own strategy, and your own identity, including on social media. Ten years ago, I would have said: go to the studio and just make music. That’s still important — but today, you also need to be visible. You need to tell your story. People want to see who you really are. They don’t want fake personalities — they want authenticity. Show your process, your work in the studio, your energy behind the decks. Be real, and if you have talent, people will notice.
We’re here in Ibiza — what makes this island so special for you?
Ibiza has been a huge part of my journey. I lived here for many years, and it influenced me a lot as a DJ. I first came here when I was very young, and being surrounded by so many great DJs shaped my musical identity. What makes it special is everything — the energy, the people, the clubs, the nature. It’s a paradise. This island has given me so many emotions over the years, and it’s still one of my favourite places in the world.
