Gemini, one of the pioneers of mobile DJing in the 1970s, has created a simple, affordable DJ hardware controller called the Gemini Firstmix that offers an easy-to-master introduction to creating a smooth, beat-matched set of music that will make novice DJs feel more confident, using their iTunes library and included software to allow them to preview, adjust treble and bass and even scratch, bend or add effects to tracks.
Although the USB-connected hardware controller comes with matching Mac and PC compatible software in the form of Cross LE DJ from MixVibes, the unit is also compatible with other DJ software such as Traktor, Virtual DJ, Algoriddim’s DJay and similar software. While most will just use their available iTunes library, the software also supports loading folders of tracks instead if preferred. The unit includes everything needed to get started (except music), and supports a variety of standard audio filetypes (MP3, AAC, M4A, AIFF, WAV) as well as FLAC and Ogg files.
The hardware features two touch-sensitive job wheels (for scratching and other effects), a mix switch, previewing buttons, beat-matching buttons and treble and bass controls. Sets can be recorded, and shared on Facebook or SoundCloud. The controller is now available at most musician-friendly retailers.
The Gemini Firstmix retails for $159 but is generally discounted to $99 through stores such as Musician’s Friend. The Cross LE DJ software requires an Intel Core2Duo-based computer (1.8GHz or higher) running either Mac OS X 10.4 or higher or Windows XP SP2 or later (the company specifically does not recommend Vista, preferring either XP or Windows 7).
