Is Cross DJ compatible controllers?
What is Cross DJ Software?
Cross DJ is a digital DJ software application developed by Mixvibes that allows DJs to mix music and perform live sets using a computer. It was first released in 2004 and is available as both a free and paid version for Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android devices.
The purpose of Cross DJ is to provide an all-in-one DJ solution that integrates everything needed to DJ and mix music digitally. This includes features like beatmatching, pitch control, EQs, effects, beat grids, waveform displays, library management, and more. Using Cross DJ, DJs can mix music files on their computer using various controllers, eliminating the need for physical media like vinyl or CDs.
Some key features of Cross DJ software include:
- Waveform displays for visual mixing
- Automatic beatmatching and sync
- Key detection and key lock
- Looping, cues, and beatjump
- Equalizers, gains, and filters
- Built-in audio effects
- MIDI controller compatibility
- Library management and playlists
Overall, Cross DJ provides a customizable digital DJing platform for mixing music digitally rather than with physical media players. It combines the tools, effects, and workflow needed for both amateur and professional DJs to mix, transition, and perform creative live DJ sets.
Why Use a Controller with Cross DJ?
Using a dedicated DJ controller with Cross DJ offers many benefits compared to only using a mouse and keyboard. According to https://www.reloop.com/the-right-dj-controller, the tactile control and feedback of a physical controller allows for quicker adjustments and more accurate mixes than a mouse. Controllers also provide dedicated controls for essential DJ functions like cue points, effects, and looping. This frees the DJ to focus more on song selection, transitions, and performance instead of hunting for controls on the screen.
Additionally, DJ controllers feature jog wheels, faders, and knobs optimized for tweaking parameters in real-time to beatmatch tracks and smoothly transition between them. The hands-on experience of a controller more closely mimics working on actual turntables or CDJs. According to https://www.quora.com/What-are-the-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-an-all-in-one-DJ-controller-vs-separate-mixer-and-turntables-for-scratching-purposes, this allows DJs to mix and blend multiple tracks seamlessly and perform EQ adjustments on the fly.
In summary, DJ controllers provide tactile, hands-on control optimized for mixing and performance. This allows DJs to focus on the creative aspects of DJing rather than computer operation.
Types of DJ Controllers
There are several common types of DJ controllers available, with different features and capabilities:
2-Deck Controllers: These controllers are designed for basic DJing with just two decks. They allow you to control two tracks at once and do basic mixing and transitions between them. Examples include controllers like the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 and the Pioneer DDJ-SB3.
4-Deck Controllers: More advanced controllers that allow you to control up to 4 decks/tracks simultaneously. This allows you to layer tracks and perform more complex mixes. Popular 4-deck controllers include the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 and the Pioneer DDJ-SZ2.
All-in-One Controllers: These controllers package everything you need to DJ in one standalone unit. They include integrated mixers, jog wheels, faders, knobs, pads, and often speakers and audio interfaces too. Some well-known all-in-one controllers are the Pioneer XDJ-XZ and the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3.
Cross DJ Hardware Compatibility
Cross DJ works with most major brands of DJ controllers including Pioneer, Numark, Hercules, Denon DJ, and Reloop. According to the Mixvibes hardware compatibility page, Cross DJ is compatible with over 80 controllers from these top brands.
Some notable compatible controllers include the Pioneer DDJ-SB, DDJ-SB2, DDJ-SB3, DDJ-400, DDJ-WeGO3, and DDJ-WeGO4. Numark controllers like the Mixtrack Pro, Mixtrack Platinum, and Mixtrack 3 are also supported. Hercules controllers such as the DJControl Inpulse 200, 300, and 500 work seamlessly with Cross DJ as well.
The wide range of compatible hardware makes Cross DJ a versatile option for DJs who want to use their existing gear or purchase new controllers from major brands. Getting set up is easy since the software has pre-mapped settings for many popular controllers. DJs can quickly connect their hardware and start mixing right away with Cross DJ.
Recommended Cross DJ Controllers
Based on reviews and features, here are some of the top controllers to use with Cross DJ software:
Pioneer DDJ-SB3
The Pioneer DDJ-SB3 is one of the most popular all-in-one controllers for Cross DJ. It’s an affordable, versatile option with a built-in sound card and comprehensive controls for mixing, effects, loops, cues, and more. The jog wheels provide accurate scratching, and it has dedicated filter knobs for smooth transitions between tracks.
Numark Mixtrack Pro 3
Another great choice is the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 controller. It has a similar layout to the SB3 but adds displays for browsing music and visual feedback. The 16 backlit performance pads allow for triggering hot cues, loops, rolls, and samples. It also has a built-in mixer with gain and equalizer knobs.
Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300
For an even more compact and affordable option, consider the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300. It has touch-sensitive jog wheels, 8 performance pads, and dedicated effect controls. The ergonomic design makes it easy to transport and set up. While fewer features than the others, it has everything needed for basic DJ mixes.
Denon DJ MC4000
The Denon DJ MC4000 controller has a metal chassis and extensive controls, ideal for intermediate to advanced Cross DJ users. It has a full-featured 4-channel mixer, dual hi-res jog wheels, 16 performance pads, and dedicated knobs for filters, FX, and loops. The LCD screen provides visual feedback.
Cross DJ MIDI Controller Setup
Connecting and configuring a MIDI controller to work with Cross DJ is straightforward. Here are the steps:
1. Connect the controller to your computer via USB.
2. Open Cross DJ and go to the MIDI menu. An option will appear called “Configure…” followed by the name of your controller.
3. Click on this option. Cross DJ will automatically detect your controller.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to map the controls on your controller to Cross DJ’s functions.
5. Make sure to click “Apply” to save the mappings.
6. You can test that everything is working by using the controller – the mappings should now be active in Cross DJ.
That’s it! The controller is now configured and ready to use with Cross DJ. You can customize and tweak the mappings further in Cross DJ’s MIDI mapping screen if needed. But the auto-configuration handles most of the setup seamlessly.
For more details, refer to the Cross DJ user manual on MIDI controller setup – https://djtechtools.com/2018/07/10/how-to-use-any-controller-with-djay-pro-cross-dj-pro-ios-dj-apps/
Cross DJ Controller Mapping
Customizing the controller mapping is one of the most important steps to optimizing Cross DJ for your hardware. The default MIDI mappings may not work perfectly for every controller. Fortunately, Cross DJ allows DJs to customize the controller mapping to suit their workflow and hardware.
Here are some tips for customizing controller mapping in Cross DJ:
– Carefully go through each control on your controller and test it in Cross DJ. Make note of any controls that don’t work as expected.
– Open the MIDI Learn mode in Cross DJ’s settings. This will allow you to manually map each control.
– Map the most important controls first, like play/pause, cue points, effects, etc. Get the basics working before moving to more advanced features.
– For pad modes, map each pad to the function you want, like hot cues or sampler slots. Customize it to your workflow.
– Tweak the parameter ranges of knobs, faders and pitch controls if needed. This helps optimize the sensitivity.
– Try to avoid conflicts between controls. Turn MIDI Learn mode off to test if mappings overlap.
– Save your custom mapping as a preset to easily load for that hardware.
– Check the Cross DJ forums if you can’t figure out a mapping. Other users likely solved it already.
– Don’t hesitate to experiment. Tweaking mappings helps unlock the full potential of your controller.
Optimizing Cross DJ for Hardware
To get the best performance when using a DJ controller with Cross DJ, there are some settings and workflow tips to keep in mind.
In the Cross DJ settings, make sure the MIDI device is set to the correct controller model you are using. This allows Cross DJ to load the proper preset mappings for that hardware controller. You can also customize the mappings if needed for your workflow (Source: https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/608837d0610d5c466a67ca2e/60ed93e103c0268eaff873a1_e6737-cross-dj-user-manual.pdf).
For audio settings, set the Audio Device to the sound card of your DJ controller, rather than the built-in sound card on your computer. This routes the master audio through your hardware for the best sound quality and minimal latency when cueing tracks (Source: https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/608837d0610d5c466a67ca2e/60ed93e103c0268eaff873a1_e6737-cross-dj-user-manual.pdf).
Make sure your controller is plugged into a powered USB port, not through a USB hub, for the most stable connection. If experiencing issues, try different USB ports on your computer to find the optimal one.
When loading tracks into your Cross DJ library, analyze them first so the waveform, BPM, and beat grids are properly set for seamless beatmatching and transitions using the hardware jog wheels and faders.
Using performance pads and hot cue buttons? Make sure to set cue points for your tracks to take full advantage of these advanced hardware features in Cross DJ.
By optimizing these settings and your workflow, you can achieve low-latency, hands-on control using your DJ controller with Cross DJ software for incredible live mixes.
Common Controller Issues in Cross DJ
Cross DJ software is designed to work seamlessly with a wide variety of MIDI controllers. However, as with any complex software, occasional issues can arise when using controllers. Some common problems and troubleshooting tips include:
Lag or latency – This can cause delays between when you perform an action on the controller and when it registers in the software. Try increasing the audio buffer size in Cross DJ’s settings to improve performance 1. Reducing graphics settings may also help.
Software crashes or freezes – If Cross DJ crashes frequently when using a controller, it may indicate compatibility issues. Check for driver and firmware updates for the controller, and confirm Cross DJ is up-to-date 2. Try resetting the controller while Cross DJ is closed.
Mapping problems – If deck controls are not mapped properly, go to Cross DJ’s controller manager to check mappings or remap controls. Refer to the device’s manual if unsure of MIDI note values.
Audio problems like distortion or cutouts – Play with Cross DJ’s audio settings and controller gain/trim knobs. Ensure cables are not damaged and fully inserted. Increase buffer size if issues persist.
Unresponsive controls – Can indicate a loose connection or power issue. Check controller and software connections, power cycle the device, and test with a different USB cable if available.
The Future of Cross DJ Hardware Support
With each new release, Mixvibes has steadily expanded the list of controllers compatible with Cross DJ. As of Cross DJ 4, most major DJ controllers on the market are supported including Pioneer, Numark, Denon, Hercules, and others (Mixvibes). However, there are still some controllers that currently lack official integration.
Based on forum posts and customer requests, adding support for controllers like the DDJ-SB2 is a high priority for future Cross DJ releases (Mixvibes Community). As new controllers are launched, Mixvibes works to add compatibility in a timely manner. The company has stated they are committed to supporting the major industry players.
With the release of Cross DJ 4 in 2019, Mixvibes introduced a new MIDI learn function to make mapping controls easier (DJ Tech Tools). This feature will likely expand in the future to allow for more customization options. Advanced users can already create their own XML mapping files, but built-in mapping tools are expected to become more robust.
Overall, the future looks bright for controller support and integration in Cross DJ. Mixvibes seems dedicated to ensuring their software stays on the cutting edge and works seamlessly with the latest DJ hardware. More official presets, improved mapping tools, and expanded compatibility are on the horizon.