By Elianne Halbersberg
Numark recently introduced MixDeck Express, a full-featured DJ system that comes complete with Serato DJ Intro software, two CD decks, two USB flash-drive ports and a three-channel mixer. The system is designed to be compatible with virtually any music source that DJs employ, including external sources like a turntable or iPod. MixDeck Express features cue, brake and reverse controls, a replaceable crossfader, seamless looping capability and large, touch-sensitive platters for mixing and scratching.
Chris Roman, Senior Product Manager, Numark, spoke to Planet Ill about MixDeck Express.
Planet Ill: MixDeck Express is described as an all-inclusive DJ system. Which music sources are exclusively compatible to this new system?
Chris Roman: I wouldn’t say any media source is exclusive, because it can play any standard media format DJs typically use. This unit is fully inclusive, which means whatever you need to play through it, you can. The MixDeck Express is a MIDI computer controller and comes with a built-in sound card, so if all you want to do is play from your computer all night, you can. Plug in the mic and make announcements.
Plug in MP3 players, iPads or whatever else with audio on it you want into the auxiliary input. Play your MP3 songs from multiple flash drives or do it old-school with CDs. The LCD display will read out your songs from the computer, CD or thumb drive, leaving you more time to interact with the crowd.
Planet Ill: What are some of its unique features, in addition to this compatibility?
Chris Roman: To have such complete compatibility in such a small footprint is unique. DJs need compact size, but many still need to play CDs. This solves that.
Planet Ill: Does it work in sync with other Numark products? If so, which ones are advisable?
Chris Roman: To be honest, this all-in-one system only requires speakers and headphones. RedWaves headphones are perfect. Our speaker line from Alto Professional offers a variety of powered systems that complete the setup.
Planet Ill: What is the ease of use for transitioning from one source to another? Is MixDeck Express configured specifically in order for DJs to access, let’s say, a CD and a USB drive quickly and without having to search for ports?
Chris Roman: Direct access buttons make it convenient to quickly select the source for playback. You can even access two songs at the same time from the thumb drive and play back on separate decks if desired.
Planet Ill: Portability is key for DJs, and MixDeck Express is a sizable piece of gear. What are its dimensions and weight?
Chris Roman: MixDeck Express is 30 percent smaller than what currently is the best-selling system on the planet, the Numark MixDeck. Its footprint is also similar to the number one selling controller, the MixTrack Pro. Due to the CD drives, the unit is elevated to accommodate the drives. Unit dimensions are 12” x 20” x 4”. The unit is quite portable.
Planet Ill: In addition to Serato DJ Intro, which is included, are any other software packages compatible with MixDeck Express?
Chris Roman: Compatible software is available from all major software providers you would expect and perhaps more you might not expect.
Planet Ill: MixDeck Express is an all-in-one system, which simplifies gear portability to clubs and parties. If a DJ already has other Numark products, what are some of the ways in which he or she can use them in tandem with this system?
Chris Roman: Of course, our laptop stand makes sense, but don’t forget this is a complete system. Add your RedWave headphones and media of choice and away you go!
Planet Ill: What is key to introducing a new product like MixDeck Express, or any new product, into the marketplace?
Chris Roman: Providing a solution to a problem DJs need solved. The MixDeck Express is the smallest and most portable complete system to be offered to the market to date.
Learn more about MixDeck Express at
www.numark.com/mixdeckexpress, www.facebook.com/Numark and http://twitter.com/numark
Elianne Halbersberg is a freelance writer whose work has been published by Guitar Edge, Mix, Premier Guitar, Gibson.com, Electronic Musician, Audio Media, Ink 19 and numerous other magazines and websites.
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