Big news with Serato DJ Intro 1.2.3, announced today, is support for two upcoming controllers from Gemini: The Gemini Slate 2 and Gemini Slate 4. These are the first controllers Gemini has released that work with Serato, which makes Gemini the first new brand to work with the software company for a long time, representing a definite coup for the long-time DJ equipment manufacturer.
Coming to market for just $199 (for the Slate 2) and $249 (Slate 4), they ought to offer stiff competition for the likes of the Numark Mixtrack Pro 2, Pioneer DDJ-SB, and other similarly spec’d controllers. Compared to the Mixtrack range, the pads on the Gemini Slate and Gemini Slate 4 are “full use” ones, meaning they aren’t a watered-down eight pad grid that really works as a four plus four matrix (eg four for hot cues, the other four for another function etc).
Looking at the big picture, you could get either the Gemini Slate or Gemini Slate 4, and then purchase the full upgrade to Serato DJ, giving you access to all those juicy extras like Slicer mode and Roll – which both these controllers can readily handle with their full-on performance pads – and at an attractive price point.
• Serato DJ Intro 1.2.3 is available as a free download for new and existing users, while the Gemini Slate and Gemini Slate 4 are due for release towards the end of 2014, starting at $199.
With more inexpensive controllers with high-end features hitting the market, how do you think this will shape the premium offerings of DJ controller manufacturers down the line? Are you in the market for a new budget controller that can do just as much as your existing mid-tier set-up? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
Joey Santos
