Gemini CNTRL-7 USB DJ Controller Review
Overview: Our good friends over at Gemini DJ sent us the First CNTRL-7 Digital DJ Controller review unit for this exclusive full Video Review and Demonstration. This compact controller packs a huge punch with serious features like the sample banks, effects, loops, and hot cues. The CNTRL-7 can also be used as a standalone mixer with dedicated inputs and a bunch of outputs. Check out the review video inside to see how the Gemini units stacks up against the competition.
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Gemini CNTRL-7 USB DJ Controller
American Musical Supply is the
Official Pro Audio Retailer of DJBooth
Staff Review
Unboxing Video:
Review Video:
Gemini CNTRL-7 USB DJ Controller Review Summary:
The Gemini CNTRL-7 is the newest Gemini USB MIDI controller that sports a nice compact and lightweight design which also provides the user with the option to use the CNTRL-7 as a standalone mixer. The Gemini CNTRL-7 also has a separate set of Booth and Master RCA outputs and volume controls with a fully Balanced XLR output as well. The Jog Wheels are solid and have decent (simple-scratching) resolution. The CNTRL-7 also has a decent Crossfader which is the Alpha-type that is also found on other popular pieces of DJ equipment today. The crossfader also has an external curve control knob. The CNTRL-7 is also loaded with features that new-age DJ’s need such as Loops, Hot Cues, effects, and a unique Sample Bank section.
On the downside, the Gemini CNTRL-7 is not meant for rigorous scratching just as with any other MIDI controller. The Jog wheels will not be able to pick up very fast movements, so they are mostly used for baby-scratches, light juggling, and getting the BPM’s lined up just right. The crossfader also will not pick up very fast crab-like movements, but will do fine for easier scratching. The other Minor gripe that I have with the unit is that the internal soundcard cannot be used for DVS playback on the external decks (The S4 is still the only controller that can do this).
In Conclusion, the Gemini CNTRL-7 USB MIDI Controller is a great compact controller that has lots of additional DJ features that would usually be found on the more expensive controllers on the market today. DJ’s will get a real Bang for their buck with the CNTRL-7. We recommend the Gemini CNTRL-7 for DJ’s on a budget, or DJ’s who need an additional compact setup that is portable enough to take with you on the go. Beginner DJ’s will also like this setup since it has everything you need to start DJ-ing and provides you with additional outputs and inputs for room to grow in the future.
Pro’s:
-Very Compact and Lightweight Design
-Can work as a standalone (2-channel) mixer, as a MIDI device, or with a combination of both
-Booth and Master outputs with Balanced XLR
-Nice Touch-Sensitive Jog Wheels (no shakes or wobbles)
-Alpha Style Crossfader with external Curve adjustment
-Good Feature Set (Loops, Hot Cues, Sample Banks, Effects)
Con’s:
- Not Suited for Serious Scratching (Mapping to jog wheels and Fader are not suited for serious/rigorous scratching)
-Cannot use internal soundcard for external timecode decks (must have separate soundcard device)
Features
The evolution of control.
Building on the momentum of the incredibly successful CTRL-SIX USB DJ controller, Gemini is taking functionality to the next level with the CNTRL-7. Now, you can enjoy the same innovative features and powerful command offered by the original, but with the added versatility of fully mappable MIDI. That means no matter what DJ software you use – Traktor, Virtual DJ, Algoriddim, MixVibes, etc. – it can be mapped to the CNTRL-7.
Professional features for a professional mix.
Like its predecessor, the CNTRL-7 provides two individual channels, each with a touch-sensitive jog wheel that lets you Search, Cue and Scratch. For manual beat matching, each deck also offers a Pitch Control slide that gives you fine-tune command when adjusting pitch and tempo. Or you can use the Sync button to match the tempos of your tracks, effectively taking the BPM guesswork out of beat matching.
The CNTRL-7 also boasts 3-Band EQ, Master Volume, Channel Volume and Channel Rotary Gain. Plus, a cross fader with an adjustable slope lets you toggle and mix playback between both channels, while a stereo VU Meter adds a convenient visual element for monitoring decibel levels.
Treat your creative side.
For crafting your own unique sound, the CNTRL-7 boasts a Loop Section with Loop Adjust, as well as Sampler and Effects sections. The Sampler Section features dedicated volume control, plus the included Virtual DJ software offers a variety of samples while providing space for up to twelve in your bank. You can even add your own samples for a more customized experience! Looking to get more creative? The Effects Section offers parameter controls, while Virtual DJ supplies effects like Flanger, Filter and Reverb, so you can build an imaginative, expert sounding mix that is distinctively your own.
It’s in the card…
Because flexible connections and pristine audio are a must, the CNTRL-7 features an all new, redesigned 16-bit/44.1kHz soundcard with two-channel, switchable line/phono inputs; Record, Master and Booth RCA outputs; Balanced XLR outputs; ¼-inch and 1/8-inch (3.5mm) headphone outs with volume control; and XLR and ¼-inch mic inputs with volume control.
Welcome to the revolution.
Thanks to the addition of MIDI, a platform widely used by the most popular DJ software, the CNTRL series is more versatile than ever! Whether you’re just getting started in the digital DJ revolution or you’re a seasoned pro, the CNTRL-7 provides a mobile, dynamic, cost-effective way to refine your skills and get recognized.
Full MIDI controls freely assignable for use with any software
Traditional mixer/CD player layout for quick and easy access
Large, touch-sensitive jog wheels
Adjustable channel faders w/ 3-band EQ and gain control
Cross fader with adjustable X-Y slope
Loop controls with ½ and 2x adjust
Sampler controls including sample select, play, and volume
Pitch/tempo controls including pitch adjustment, pitch slider, sync and pitch bend
Effects parameter controls
Switchable between USB bus-power or DC power
Comes with Virtual DJ LE
Inputs/Outputs
2-channel switchable line/phono with ground screw
Rec, Master and Booth RCA outputs
Balanced XLR output
¼” and 1/8” (3.5mm) headphone out with volume control
XLR and ¼” mic input with mic volume control
Unit dimensions
14.17” x 10.23” x 1.77” (360 x 260 x 45 mm)
Unit Weight 4 lbs. (1.8 Kg)
Type of unit: USB DJ controller
Power: 5V DC Adaptor, USB-Powered
Connector type: USB Type A
USB protocol support: 1.0, 1.1, and 2.0 (Hi-Speed)
Weight: 3.87 lbs (1.8 kg)
Dimensions: 14 x 10.25 x 1.75 inches (360 x 260 x 45 mm)
Audio output: 2-channel (Stereo)
Output level: 1.0 V RMS (1 kHz, 0dB)
Output connectors: Unbalanced RCA Type, Balanced XLR
Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
S/N ratio: 80dB
Total harmonic distortion: <0.05%
Lowest Price
Gemini CNTRL-7 USB DJ Controller
American Musical Supply is the
Official Pro Audio Retailer of DJBooth
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