The Gemini GMX Pro DJ Controller swaps touch-sensitive jogs for mechanical and adds USB functionality in order to differentiate itself from similarly profiled devices.
The Gemini GMX Pro DJ Controller was announced today ahead of this year’s NAMM Show, promising a mix of portability and versatility for digital DJs.
A compact controller, it differentiates itself by having the ability to work from a single USB drive of music, but also with DJ software (such as the supplied Virtual DJ LE).
The Gemini GMX Pro has mechanical-style jogs, which appear to be similar in function to those of the Traktor Kontrol S2 and Traktor Kontrol S4. They’re 14-bit, so in theory ought to give a high level of control.
It differentiates itself by having the ability to work from a single USB drive of music, but also with DJ software…
There are two small displays for track information, timings and waveforms, although at this stage it’s not clear how much of that information the displays will show when the GMX Pro is being used with DJ software. I’¡d guess they’ll have cracked at least some of it with Virtual DJ LE.
The unit offers basic cues, loops and (presumably) effects control over software, and has a two-channel mixer. It is not clear whether there is any scope to add external inputs or whether there is any “emergency thru” for a backup music source.
As well as Virtual DJ LE, there is also software called “VCASE” in the box, which is we’re guessing Gemini’s take on a USB music management tool.
We think
While Gemini’s speakers are very good, and its standalone CDJs have their fans, it’s fair to say its DJ controllers to date have had a somewhat mixed reception.
At least the GMX Pro breaks from the mould a little by preferring mechanical jogs over touch-sensitive, having nice long-throw pitch controls, and including a USB option too.
Will it be built for this kind of ‘have controller, will travel’ use? We’ll find out at NAMM later this week…
The layout looks a little strange on a controller of this size (they’ve plumped for the “two identical players” paradigm, which means the pitch control of the right-hand player is in the middle of the unit).
While its controllerism features won’t win anyone over (four rudimentary hot cues on small buttons, plus basic loop, and – as mentioned above – we’re presuming at least some kind of FX control), it seems suited to the digital-sometime-mobile DJ who doesn’t always want to have to take a computer with him to him gigs.
Whether it succeeds in that role will depend on the build quality, how well it performs, and how good the VCASE software is – and of course, the price. We don’t have the answers to any of these questions right now, but we’ll make sure we get a hands-on look at the NAMM Show later this week and report back to you once we have.
Do you like the look of this “hybrid” USB/software controller? Is it different enough to stand out from the crowd? Please share your thoughts in the comments.
Now go to:
Review & Video: Gemini CDJ-700 Media Player
Gemini CDMP-7000 Review & Video
Gemini FirstMix DJ Controller Review: Is Small Beautiful?
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Tags: gemini, Gemini GMX Pro, GMX Pro, namm, NAMM 2013
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Seems like the Stanton 4djc unit.
[ link ]Forward thinking but by limiting the actual interaction with the computer you lose a lot of the functionality. This shouldn’t be tagged as a pro unit. This is not going to win over any serious mobile djs.
For 250 I wouldn’t even pick this up.
Exaclty:) But…
[ link ]Like American Audio Encore 2000.
Stanton Much Better Than This Device!
They’re speakers are good? Wow, things have changed. They have always been on the cheaper quality end of audio gear. I would really have to see it to believe it.
[ link ]Well I think they’re good value speakers, perfect for DJ monitoring.
[ link ]Wait until you hear the price
[ link ]Love it
[ link ]this is weak! specially when they have a unit like the CDMP-7000!! this controller will only be an option if the price is way low! USB reading don’t compensate the lack of features in software mode just by looking at the layout! this will only be an option if it’s under the 300€ range! otherwise is better to get just a basic midi controller and forget USB! cos let’s be reallistic! USB only is an option if you can use it in the club standards! (i’m talking Pioneer and/or Dennon)
[ link ]also VDJ is yet not a professional option in the vision of the clubs! at least in Portugal (my country!) might get away with some bar’s!
I again think controllers like this are ideal for hobbyists, bedroom amateurs, beginners, etc.
Nothing wrong with not spending a load of cash when you’re just starting out.
[ link ]BTW…what’s the difference between mechanical jogs and touch-sensitive jogs?
[ link ]Mechanical-push down on the platter and it engages a button. Touch-sensitive uses a capacitive plate to sense static from your touch. Think of it this way-you could scratch with a pencil eraser with this, but with a capsense wheel you couldn’t.
[ link ]Which do you think is better?
[ link ]they both feel differently so there’s a touch of personal preference involved but in my opinion I prefer this style of mechanical touch. Think of it as an S4 jog wheel (mechanical) vs a mixtrack jog wheel (capacitive). Just the touch sensitivity
[ link ]They need to get their act together. Come with a new controller when the one that was supposed to be their flagship (CDMP-7000) is giving to much trouble.
[ link ]After going through 3 CDMP 7000 units in less than 2 weeks, I have no confidence in their product. It was very wise to announce this “controller” before NAMM…
[ link ]Strange stuff , after taking a fair amount of time looking at what options are open to me now that i am going from 2 tt’s and a mixer on to digital , i thought Phil’s review had me sold on the so called flagship (CDMP-7000)Gemini’s own Word’s, then i read Dj 8X … Above ^ having to go through 3 of them ,and NOW this pop’s up , unless this unit is sold for very small money they don’t leave a trust worthy taste in my mouth.
All starting to look very E.A sports with the fifa series , i am starting to think this is the type of reason people go and spend big money on the Pioneer products , you get what you pay for i guess.
[ link ]GeMiniX!!!
[ link ]I just wish they would spend some time improving the products they have released and less time trying to do another NEW thing.
[ link ]Some interesting features in a lack luster design, don’t see many people picking this up honestly unless it’s priced around one of the Mixtrack levels.
[ link ]I also heard that the Mixtrack may get a makeover this year…I don’t know how trustworthy my source is though.
[ link ]I’ve used Gemini products in the past, and currently I own a pair of their CDJ700′s which I really love. I can’t wait to see this new controller and take it for a spin. The fact that you don’t need a lap top to use it, makes it very appealing to me, and I’m sure to many other Dj’s who like the idea of practicality and mobility. As of now, I haven’t experienced any flaws with any of the Gemini products that I’ve used or that I’m currently using, so I can’t wait to check out this new toy from Gemini.
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