The Numark Mixtrack Pro is all you need to turn your laptop into a DJ rig
Every now and then, a product appears that doesn’t so much ‘change the game’, as invites everyone to play, and the Numark Mixtrack Pro is one such product. Whilst there had been a number of fairly cheap DJ controllers previously, generally there were some fairly big compromises that made using them slightly less than convenient.
Many also required additional equipment or software to get an operable set-up. The Numark Mixtrack Pro managed to pack all the key elements that a beginner, or someone looking to dip their toe into the world of the laptop DJ, at a ludicrously affordable price.
Controller, audio interface and software in one box
A common misconception when starting to use a laptop to DJ is that an onboard laptop soundcard will be adequate. There are two main reasons why this is not the case.
Firstly, soundcards used in laptops tend to be generic types, for multimedia playback. As such, they are not designed to process audio data very quickly. This means that, when cueing up a track, there is often a very noticeable delay between pressing play, and the track starting. This is the enemy of a slick, smooth mix.
Secondly, you will need to have separate main mix, and cue/ headphone mix outputs so that you can cue up a track whilst playing another. Laptop soundcards generally just have a headphone/ speaker output.
The Numark Mixtrack Pro is equipped with an audio interface designed specifically for the purpose. It processes audio data far, far quicker than onboard soundcards tend to, reducing delay such that it can’t be noticed. Two stereo outputs feature on the back, with a separate headphone cue mix on the front.
Software Included
The Mixtrack Pro caters incredibly well for those taking first steps into the laptop DJ World regarding software too. If you’re a newbie, the chances are you won’t have any preference regarding software, or won’t have had a chance to find a preference. The Mixtrack Pro comes with both Serato Intro software, and Native Instruments Traktor LE. These are packages from two of the industry leading DJ software producers, allowing the user to find which they prefer, or use both in different situations.
And still, we haven’t mentioned the controller itself. Built around a tough, moulded chassis, it is equipped with two touch sensitive platters, full mixer, effects, loop and EQ controls, and enables mouse-less track browsing and loading. And, as the unit transmits MIDI over USB, it is easily configured to just about any other DJ software package you might want to use.
And the price? The Mixtrack Pro sells currently for a incredible £159.99 (price correct as of 6/7/2012). If you’ve ever harboured the idea of becoming a DJ, and have a laptop or PC, this provides more ‘bang-for-the-buck’ than it has any right to. Call our stores or customer service team (01925 582420) or order online today.
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