Gemini USB MIDI CNTRL-7

When performing digital DJ sets, deck control and the mixer should be accessible without any detours. The Gemini CNTRL-7 combines both in one two-channel USB MIDI controller with an integrated audio interface. Its touch-sensitive jog wheels control searching, cueing, and scratching; the controls can be freely assigned via MIDI and used with Virtual DJ LE as well as compatible DJ software such as Traktor, Mixvibes, or Algoriddim.

The mixer section combines two channel faders with gain knobs, master volume, and a three-band EQ per channel. A VU meter supports level control, while you can crossfade between the decks and adjust the crossfader curve. There is a rotary knob for navigating through tracks and folders; load buttons handle the loading onto deck A or B.

Deck control includes pitch faders, pitch bend buttons, master tempo, and a SYNC button for each side. The jog wheels offer search, cue, and scratch functions. Hot cue buttons set cue points during playback; loop-in and loop-out buttons as well as loop adjustment with tempo automation complement the performance control. You can directly operate effects and samples via an effect selector with two parameter knobs and a sampler section with selection, playback, volume control, and twelve status LEDs. The buttons are illuminated.

For external sources, there are two RCA inputs switchable between line and phono levels complete with a grounding screw. An additional line input is also included. The outputs comprise record, master, and booth via RCA as well as balanced XLR outputs; the booth volume can be adjusted separately. The integrated audio interface operates at 16-bit and 44.1 kHz.

You can connect headphones via 6.35 mm or 3.5 mm jacks and regulate their volume on the device. For a microphone, there are XLR and 6.35 mm jack inputs with their own volume control. Power supply is possible via USB or a 5 V power adapter; a power adapter is not listed as included. USB operation without a separate power adapter is suitable for a streamlined mobile setup.

Virtual DJ LE on an installation CD is included. Thanks to the freely assignable MIDI control, the controller also fits other compatible DJ software; the software connection and audio routing must be configured there. Suitable for software-based two-deck setups with external line or phono sources, XLR or RCA systems, as well as microphone and headphones.