The Numark Axis 2 is a solid single CD player for DJ's.
Written: May 15 '04 (Updated May 15 '04)
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Pros: This large jog wheel makes mixing simple.
Cons: Can't loop music.
The Bottom Line: Numark's Axis 2 Tabletop Professional CD Player offers some excellent features in a compact and affordable unit.
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| cntaur5's Full Review: Nu Mark Numark AXIS2 Proffesional Table Top CD Pla... |
CD mixing sounds great in theory, but few Disk Jockey's (DJ’s) are able to compete lacking the adequate skills to get with the new program. Sure most DJ's love the feel of vinyl but, disc are smaller cheaper, easier to transport and can be at the blink of an eye with MP3 technology. Enter, then this timely CD player that thanks to a family of computer literate spiders who live inside the casing plays disc. So now those performers who possess the technical skills mastering the disc, can enjoy all the benefits of traditional CD-mixing mayhem, without fear of systems meltdown.
The AXIS 2 Tabletop Professional CD Player by Numark may look small, but this baby packs a wallop when it comes too spinning a disc. The first thing you’ll notice when you look at this unit is the large 130 mm interactive pitch wheel; this represents the traditional vinyl, however controlling the enclosed disc just like an LP. This large jog wheel makes mixing simple once you get use to it. Next you’ll notice the green play light button and the red cue button with the later turning the system on and the red light serving as a pause so that you can execute your music when you are ready. Finally, you notice the 100 mm pitch slider, which allows you to change the pitch from +/- 8 to 16%, regardless of the disc that’s playing. The remaining black buttons under the name Numark work just like a regular CD player only the buttons are bigger offering prime finger control and implementation when doing a live performance.
This isn't your run-of-the-mill disc changer. The convenient button that opens the units front-loading single disc changer works well featuring a tiny light that provides prime illumination when spinning. One of the most impressive visual features with the AXIS 2 is its transport bay illumination light that lets you know what you are doing as you view the BPM counter behind the proverbial wheels of steel.
The units recessed rear input panel area has all the digital outputs you need including the removable power plug and connection ports that go to the mixer once wired properly. The ports are sold, I’ve connected the input wires routinely for the past year with no problems. Although this is a stand-alone item it is important to remember that you’ll need a mixer or powered speakers to get sound.
What’s amazing is that the AXIS 2 is extremely lightweight and while it is the same length of your standard turntable, it is half that size in width. The actual size is 8” x 4” x 14” weighing in at approximately 8 pounds. The unit is extremely sturdy with four small rubber mounts at the base which keeps the unit secure preventing it from sliding. Don’t worry about bumping this baby since it features a 10 seconds anti-shock playback feature similar to mobile cd players. All of the buttons are rubber, which feels extremely soft to the fingertips.
The AXIS 2, does have its limitations; although its ideal for beatmatching its not designed for beat looping. Although I rarely use the BPM counter relying heaving on the sound that comes from the headphone there does seem to be a tiny delay. Fortunately, all the audio parameters are excellent. If you are into a really big soundstage presentation, and you are ready to begin the transition from disc to vinyl, then this player might not be for you.
Bottom line, every DJ needs a disc player in their life. This unit is CDR compatible which mean you really get a lot more songs. The AXIS 2 can work as a stand-alone unit or with another AXIS 2 or Direct Drive Turntable once hooked into your system. This unit lives up to its marketing claims, “offering unprecedented realism in digital mixing and scratching”. If you would like more information you can visit www.numark.com. Numark's Axis 2 represents exceptional quality for the money.
Additional spec's:
· 130 mm pitch wheel
· 100 mm pitch slider
· 10 seconds Anti-Shock.
· Laser-saving sleep mode.
I've also reviewed Numark's D100 Single Cup Headphone click on the title below:
The Numark D100 is single and sexy
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 150.00
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