Gemini never fail
to provide pro-spec features for a price that is usually unbeatable.
This five-channel club mixer is simple and flexible with a few nice
touches to entice. So, what is it capable of?
What makes a club mixer?
The main elements
are industry standard connections such as balanced XLR, high quality
circuitry, durability and flexible input and output options. There
are many other elements to consider according to the application and
system's requirements from the mixer, but we were pleasantly
surprised with what the CS-19 has to offer.
A well-rounded set
of features and connectivity for such a reasonable price makes this
mixer an attractive option for smaller clubs and bars that require a
large and flexible mixer.
Inputs
The input selector
on every channel enables you to choose any of the four line inputs,
phono inputs and front panel Aux channel, making it very useful when
mixing multiple sources together and being customisable at the twist
of a knob. The front panel Aux and FX loop are great for an install
mixer, enabling DJs to plug in a minidisc or effects unit in seconds
(using RCA connectors).
There are no less
than three microphone inputs (two on the front, one on the back) all
with individual gain, level, cue, bass and treble controls. The
microphone inputs use Neutrik Combo connectors. XLR and normal jack
connection microphones can be used in the same plug, making clumsy
converters a thing of the past. The effects loop is also available on
the back of the unit using stereo jacks to feed and return with one wire.
Channels one to
four have connections for phono with a switch behind the unit for
line level inputs on the same connectors. Directly below them are
four dedicated line inputs RCA connections.
Outputs
The outputs on
this mixer lend itself well to a bar or club, especially with
different listening areas that need individual level control
throughout the course of the day. The master output is into either
balanced XLR or RCA (phono) with balance control, two zone outputs
into ¼ inch jacks with level control, and a booth monitor which
reproduces the headphone output.
The master level
can be attenuated by six or twelve decibels. A ground lift control
and mono switch (affecting master, zone and booth outputs) further
allows customisation in complicated configurations.
Build
The build quality
is pretty good and gives the impression of a monster mixer using the
ever popular and still stylish brushed aluminium faceplate. The unit
is quite deep and would best suit rack mounting, but with room for
the mixer to hang lower than the level of the turntables, this would
be fine. The faceplate metal did seem a little thin and would not
stand years of rough handling and gigging without a decent flightcase
to protect it.
All the pots and
faders are quite rigid and seem like they will hold out, but the
rotary knobs gave us the impression that it wouldn't be too long
before they loosen up. Install mixers can take a severe beating and
only time will tell how these will perform.
In use
There is certainly
plenty of space on this mixer for everything to be clearly and
logically laid out, which it is. The 'railglide' crossfader with
curve control is quite light in operation, and the rotary volume
control is smooth and a pleasure to use. However, they are a little
too close to the crossfader and can be nudged by the knuckles if you
aren't careful.
The EQ pots aren't
too close together and give a good cut of bass, mid and treble. The
cue buttons feel quite flimsy, but at the same time you could
describe them as being smooth.
T-Specs
5 channels (4
phono/4 line/1 aux)
3 microphones
2 FX Loops
Dimensions:
19"w X 10.5"h X 4.75"d
Weight: 1.3kg
Max Output: 20V Peak
S/N Ratio: >80dB
Good points
PFL level meter on
each channel
Multiple zones
Versatile connectivity
Bad points
Thin metal casing
Rotary faders seem light
Replacement Parts
The CS-19 and The
CS-19/R both come with a three year warranty. All parts are
replaceable and if you are still using the unit three years later,
parts are very cheap indeed.
Value for money 4
Build quality 3
Functionality 3.5
Conclusion
Five-channel club
install mixers under £500 are hard to find with this level of
connectivity, and the three year warranty makes this unit a very good
buy. The audio quality is acceptable with very low noise levels and
good EQ control. There are enough customisable features to appease
even the most knit-picking sound engineer.
Review courtesy of
DJ Magazine
Copyright 2002 DJ Magazine
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