DM1835X
Multiple Channel Mixing
One exciting feature of your Beatkeeper built into your
mixer is the option to visually beat mix more than 2 sources
at the same time. Once you have synced a channel of the
Beatkeeper the unit will continue to track it even if you
should decide to change channels. Up to all four channels
can be in sync simultaneously. By selecting different
channels you can cross-compare the mix of any 2 channels
instantly.
In order do perform a 3-way mix you first will
need to set up a 2-way mix as described in the
previous section.
NOTE: Multiple source or “layer” mixes should be
performed with a minimum of vocals otherwise the music
will clash when mixed for a long period of time.
The next step will be to decide which input channel you
would like to use as a reference for beat mixing. While
your 2-way mix is ongoing change the channel,
on the side you have not chosen as a reference, to the
next song you plan to mix into. Now sync and mix this
song like you did for the 2-way mix. After you have
synced up the new song you should continue to check
your original mix by switching between channels. When
you have properly aligned the new song you are ready to
perform a 3-way mix.
To perform a 4-way mix just do the same thing again.
Prepping For A Mix
You may also choose to prep the Beatkeeper for an
actual mix. To prep the Beatkeeper, first match the two
song's tempos by adjusting the pitch so that the Tempo
Difference LED graph displays yellow or green LEDs. Next
hit the Cue button of your CD player, or lift your record
needle. The red “beat” LED will remain solid alerting you to
which input is ready to start. When the music starts again,
the Beatkeeper begins right on the beat and indicates how
well the two songs are synced within seconds.
Syncing To Off Beats
Now if you really want to be fancy, you can actually use
the Beatkeeper to sync to the off- beats. You can have two
songs going “Boom - Cha - Boom - Cha”. Normally, you
would sync the “Booms” of both songs (beat-to-beat
mixing). But you can also sync the “Boom” of one song to
the “Cha” of the other (beat-to-half beat mixing). The
Beatkeeper’s Beat Offset graph will display whichever
offset is smaller. This allows the DJ the flexibility to mix with
the beat or the off-beat.
Beat mixing is a skill that must be practiced in order to be proficient at it. 3
and 4-way mixing can be a very difficult skill to master. Visual mixing with
the Beatkeeper gives you the tools to help you do this, but nothing
replaces practice.
Numark - The Proven Leader in DJ Technology
©1997 Numark Industries
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http://www.numark.com
