Gemini CFX-30

A standalone CD player with direct access to cue points, loops and effects is practical when you integrate CDs into a classic DJ setup. The Gemini CFX-30 plays audio CDs, CD-Rs and CD-RWs, and combines a slot-in loading mechanism with a large jog wheel for track control and precise cueing. CD playback with integrated DSP effects makes it a deck for creative transitions and adjustments during playback.

Eight DSP effects are available for sound processing: Filter, Zoom, Echo, Pan, Reverse, Trans, Brake and Scratch. You can use the controls to adjust the Dry/Wet level and the start and brake behaviour; the jog wheel changes the effect parameters in real time. The Vinyl/CD mode adds Scratch and Cut functions. Control eight effects directly on the player to make adjustments without leaving playback.

Five Fly Cue points and four storable samples give you access to marked points and short audio inserts. The Memory button is used to store cue points and samples; Master Cue starts playback directly from the set cue point. With Seamless Looping, you can set and edit loops, recall them using Re-loop or use Stutter for repeated playback. Recall cues, samples and loops to make spontaneous adjustments in the mix.

The rubberised jog wheel has finger indentations and can be used for pitch bending, fast searching or frame-accurate navigation in Pause mode. This lets you set cue points precisely. Pitch Bend is also available via buttons; the pitch range can be set to ±4 %, ±8 %, ±16 % or ±100 %. Key Lock or Master Tempo keeps the pitch constant when changing the playback speed. Control pitch range and pitch precisely to make it easier to match tracks.

The programmable Direct-Access Keypad is used for direct track selection; the +10 button skips in increments of ten. Single-Auto-Cue stops after one track and cues the next track at its beginning, while Continuous Play continues playback. The dimmable, blue-backlit LCD displays information in three time modes: elapsed time, remaining track time and remaining total time. Adjust playback and time display to help you stay oriented during your set.

The Anti-Shock memory buffers playback for 10 seconds. An analogue RCA output is available for connecting to a mixer or amplifier; a digital RCA output is intended for digital recording equipment. The power supply can be switched between 115 V and 230 V. Analogue and digital RCA outputs make the deck suitable for different systems and recording setups.

With CD compatibility, extensive cue and loop functions and direct effect control, the CFX-30 fits into a DJ setup with a separate mixer and CD media. The adjustable mains voltage should be taken into account when setting up; it must match the local supply before connection. A CD deck with performance features for DJs who want to play tracks from audio CDs and manipulate them directly on the player.