Mixvibes Cross (2.0) Pack Digital Vinyl System Review
Share This Page:
Tweet
Mixvibes Cross (2.0) Pack Digital Vinyl System Staff Review
Mixvibes Cross Pack & Cross 2.0 Digital Vinyl System Review Summary & Video:
In my continuing bid to find some decent savings for DJ's all across the land, I ran into yet another "cheaper" Digital Vinyl Hardware and Software Package that will allow DJ's to use their external CD and Vinyl Decks in conjunction with their computer and audio files for playback. The Mixvibes Cross Pack comes bundled with the all-metal and super sturdy U46MK2 USB DJ soundcard and Cross 1.5 all for only $200. After the user installs Cross 1.5, you will get a free upgrade to Cross 1.7, and yet another free upgrade to Cross 2.0. The setup was rather easy when compared to other DVS setups... All I had to do was plug in all the appropriate RCA connections to the decks and the mixer and then plug in the USB cable to the computer after installing the software and all the preferences were already set to go. Also in the box DJ's will get the timecode vinyl and CD's necessary for external deck control. All the DJ needs is their computer and music files for mixing.
This is, without a doubt, one of the most cost effective Digital Vinyl Systems out on the market today. Even though the price is right, you still get great CD and Vinyl Timecode Control Response that is very accurate and very low-latency. You also get a full-featured Cross 2.0 software with 2-Decks of control, 8 Hot Cues per deck, 1 Effects per deck, 16 Sample Banks and a loop controller for each deck. There are about 15 effects in Cross 2.0, but you can only apply them one per deck at a time. Some of the advanced effects that EDM style DJ's need may be disappointed with the number of effects offered at a time. Cross 2.0 also has a built in recorder so you can record your mix and even load it into one of the sample banks for immediate playback. The browsing functions are easy to use and similar to the layout of Traktor. DJ's can also plug in any MIDI Mappable device in order to control basic functions like Cue Points, effects, playback, loops, browse, and loading. The MIDI mapper that is built into the software allows you to map lots of controls with ease. There is also a very long list of Digital DJ Controllers that are inherently compatible with the Cross 2.0 DJ software with a default mapping already there for use (see the list in the manufacturer's description).
The Mixvibes U46MK2 Hardware is made up of almost all metal and is very rugged and durable. The U46MK2 also has a headphone and microphone jack for users who do not use the system with an external Mixer with these features. Each input can be switched to either Line level or Phono level to accomodate for CDJ's or Vinyl turntables. The Mixvibes U46MK2 has a total of two inputs and three outputs. This allows the DJ to use two decks of timecode control and an additional output to connect the Sample decks to another channel on a mixer for example...There is also a Master output for recording and other functions. The only gripe that I could find with the U46MK2 soundcard is that it is rated at 16-Bit while the "industry standard" Serato and Traktor Soundcards are 24-bit. I didn't notice any issues with the sound throughout my use but it's worth pointing out that you may not get the same exact sound quality when compared to the higher priced DJ soundcards.
In Conclusion, the Mixvibes Cross Pack DVS system is a really good low-cost alternative to the higher priced setups that are currently offered. The DVS setup is complete with everything DJ's need right out of the box and there are lots of software features that DJ's have grown to love. The only gripes I could find with the system as a whole is that the U46MK2 hardware is 16-bit and the Cross 2.0 software has limited effects options. Other than that, the setup works very nicely and I would easily trust my paying gig's with this system. The Layout in Cross 2.0 is very easy to read and very simple for beginner or novice users. The Setup process was also very painless. I will recommend this setup to any DJ's who want to get their feet wet with a DVS application or any DJ who wants a backup/secondary DVS system that can still run stable on older computers. It's also a good option for DJ's who want to save a bit of cash but still get a good all around DVS solution.
Pro's:
-Complete Hardware (U46MK2) and Software (Cross 2.0) DVS Package
-Mixvibes U46MK2 Is built Solid (All-Metal)
-Excellent CD and Vinyl Timecode Response (Low Latency)
-Cross 2.0 Features (8-Hot Cues, 16-Sample Banks, Loops, & Simple Layout)
-Affordable Alternative DVS Solution
Con's:
-Limited Effects (Only one per deck)
-Mixvibes U46MK2 (16-bit) is Slightly Inferior in Sound Quality
Mixvibes Cross (2.0) Pack Digital Vinyl System Features
The MixVibes CROSS PACK is a DJ solution that provides complete control for professional DJs. It combines the latest CROSS software technology with the rock solid U46MK2 audio interface.
Software streamlined user interface reintegrates the music as the centrepiece of the DJ’s performance. This bundle is the perfect solution for DJs who wish to scratch or beatmatch their tracks without losing the genuine vinyl/CD feel or even with a DJ MIDI controller, in a stable and high fidelity environment
NEW IN CROSS 1.7
The ultra-precise beat synchronization will lock your mix forever in one click. The new Sync Meter will help you to visually sync on the beat (1), on the bar (4) or on the cycle (16 beats) for each tracks. Thanks to the spinning colors, it is easy to know which track needs a fine pitch to be slowed down or speeded up while you are mixing.
Because old school tracks are not 100% straight recorded, an advanced mode is now available in CROSS beat grid. DJs can rescale the grid, adjust the down beat and create sub-grids whenever the BPM is moving within the track.
All actions you perform are now instantly snapped to the grid to perform perfect CUE points, locators and loops!
Whether you are a Traktor or a Virtual DJ user, you can now import third party playlists in CROSS and CrossDJ. This function allows you also to import cue points, locators, loops and beat grid analysis saved in your former Dj software for an instant mix in Cross and CrossDJ.
Pioneer Rekordbox powerusers can now import their playlists into CROSS and instantanely mix their prepared tracks.
The FX section is now updated with 12 new effects – 15 in total including DJ industry standard FX such as Low-Pass, Hi-Pass, Roll, Brake,… and for creative DJ exclusive Mixvibes FX such as Transform, Crush, Bliss, Jet...
MEDIA MANAGEMENT
With CROSS, it's easy to find and prepare your audio medias, allowing you to keep your focus on the dance floor.
? User definable smart lists with dynamic update whenever you add matching songs
? "Prepare" pane to organize and prepare your set
? Flag your tracks with color labels and find them back within seconds
? iTunes integration
? Album cover browser for visual search
? History node to keep record of all your played tracks/sessions
Advanced ‘info’ tool to edit any tag field
- Automatic track quality indicator
PROFESSIONAL FEATURES
CROSS includes a lot of professional features, allowing you to release your creativity to make every mix differents.
? Smart audio effects
? Locators & CUE points
? Ultra precice BPM analyzer
? Automatic and Manual loops, locators, auto beat matching
? Multiple routing modes to accommodate various audio set-ups
? Effect synchronization on music beat/tempo
? High-end master tempo & hybrid pitch allowing speed change while keeping the original tonal Key (note)
EXTERNAL CONTROL
CROSS allows you spin audio files using timecoded Vinyls/CDs and/or MIDI controllers.
? External Control with MixVibes control Vinyl/CD
? Authentic vinyl control with 2 vinyl driving modes: Absolute and Relative (for loops)
? Powerful anti-skip mode, realistic sound even at low speeds
? Best time code CD resolution for hot CUEs and short loops
? 2x 12-inch control vinyl + 2 control CD records included
? Popular MIDI controller presets included + MIDI learning feature to map your own USB device
? Keyboard shortcuts customization
U46MK2 SOUNDCARD
CROSS PACK features a 2 IN / 3 OUT stereo soundcard offering high-fidelity sound quality and allowing you to connect either CD/Vinyl decks, MP3 player, direct instrument ...
? 2x stereo RCA inputs
? 3x stereo RCA outputs
? MIC inputs with gain control
? Direct instrument input for electrical guitars (Hi-Z) with gain control
? Headphone output with level control
? Compatible with Microsoft® Windows XP SP2, Windows Vista, Windows 7 and Mac OSX
? WDM, MME, ASIO, and DirectSound support
BUILT-IN MIDI CONTROLLERS
CROSS is compatible with numerous MIDI controller. If your controller is not listed below, you can map your own controller with the MIDI Learning feature.
? Akiyama Kuro
? Allen & Heath Xone:DX
? American Audio VMS4
? Denon DN-HC1000S, DN-S1200, DN-S3700 (Hybrid Mode), DN-SC2000, DN-MC6000
? DJ-Tech i-Mix, i-Mix Mk2, i-Mix Reload, i-Mix Reload Mk2, VTT-101
? EKS Otus
? Hercules DJ Console Rmx, DJ Console Mk4, DJ Control Steel, DJ Control MP3 e2, DJ Console 4-Mx, DJ Control Air
? Ion Discover DJ
? Gemini FirstMix
? MIDI-8
? MixVibes U-MIX CONTROL, U-MIX CONTROL 2, U-MIX CONTROL PRO, VFX CONTROL
? Novation Dicer
? Numark iDJ3, Omni Control, Stealth Control, Total Control, Mixdeck
? Pioneer CDJ-350, CDJ-400, CDJ-850, CDJ-900, CDJ-2000, DDJ-ERGO, MEP7000 (SEP-C1)
? Reloop Digital Jockey, Digital Jockey 2, Spin 2+
? Stanton SCS.3d
? Vestax PMC-05ProIV, Typhoon, VCI-100/VCI-100MKII, VCI-300/VCI-300MKII, VCM-100, VCI-400
AWARDS
During the MIXMOVE fair in March 2011, the TECH AWARD 2011 took place: The competition elected the best DJ products and software of the year. The jury was composed of professionals from the nightlife business who have a perfect knowledge of DJ gear.
There wasn't any doubt regarding the results; MIXVIBES was awarded twice for the quality of the products and the technological innovation for DJ’s.
? CROSS was rewarded a second time as best DJ software for the second year in a row.
? The U-MIX CONTROL PRO has been rewarded as best DJ controller under 600€
CROSS PACK - Specifications
Minimum System Requirements for PC
Windows XP SP2 or Windows Vista SP2 or Windows 7
We recommend Windows 7 or XP over Vista
Intel Core 2 Duo / 1.8 GHz or equivalent
1 GB RAM
One available USB port
Hard drive space for music
Minimum System Requirements for MAC
Mac OS X 10.4
Intel Core 2 Duo / 1.8 GHz or higher
1 GB RAM
One available USB port
Hard drive space for music
PLEASE NOTE: These are the minimum requirements to run CROSS PACK.
For best performance and for use in professional situations we recommend you buy a higher spec computer.
We also recommend Intel processors.
U46MK2 SPECIFICATIONS
- 4-in 6-out USB audio interface
- 2 Phono inputs and 4 Line inputs
- MIC inputs with gain control
- +48V phantom power for condenser microphone
- Direct instrument input for electrical guitars (Hi-Z) with gain control
- 6 line level analog outputs with separate Mix outputs
- Headphone out with level control
- 4 channel recording and 6 channel playback at the same time – Full Duplex
- 4-in 6-out at 44.1 kHz, 4-in 4-out at 48 kHz
- Compatible with Microsoft® Windows XP SP2, Windows Vista, Windows 7 and Mac OSX
- WDM, MME, ASIO, and DirectSound support
Submit a Review and/or Rating
Member Reviews and Ratings
|
DJ Booth Member Total Ratings: 1 |
Rating:
 Truly amazing software and hardware.
|
| Posted on Jun 20, 2012 |
|
DJ Booth Member |
Rating:
cool software, i've been using it for a while and i love it
|
| Posted on Mar 04, 2013 |
Mixvibes Cross (2.0) Pack Digital Vinyl System Related Links
| Additional Reviews: |
Other DJ Equipment Reviews |
Equipment by Manufacturer |
Search for DJ Equipment
Resident DJs
New Jersey
DJ Caesar
DJ Caesar is one of today’s most versatile DJ’s in the industry. He is more then a DJ...
Brussels
DJ Emiliot
DJ Emiliot all the way from Belgium representing Core DJS Africa | Fleet DJS | Future Star...
New Jersey!
djblaze
Under the guidance of his older brother, Kareem Julien has been a full fledged Mobile...
Atlanta, GA
Kutmaster TeeOh
DJ Turmoil, better known as TeeOh, is more than a disc jockey. His unparalleled live...
DJ Blaze on Twitter
