UPDATE: MixVibes Cross DJ 2.5 gets key detection

MixVibes Cross DJ 2.5 gets a key feature... a key feature. Geddit? Harmonic mixing gets the attention it deserves without extra software.

[youtube id=”CV1Ukld8CAM”]

In the week that Serato dropped Scratch Live 2.5, MixVibes have done the same. MixVibes Cross DJ 2.5 is out, and with it comes key detection. Actually, watching the above video, that’s something of understatement — Cross DJ 2.5 embraces key detection, pumps it full of steroids, and shoves it in your face. Awesome.

An extensive lump of PR follows:

Cross DJ 2.5 | Mix in harmony

Mixvibes introduces an update for Cross DJ, its Mac/PC flagship software. Blend tracks seamlessly, create mash­ups in seconds and record smooth mixtapes. Indeed, the 2.5 version features build­in key detection and control, new full screen collection and more.

Accurate Key detection for smooth harmonic mixes
There’s accurate build­in key detection right in Cross DJ: no need for third party software anymore. Key can be displayed in classic notation or harmonic code, making it easy to find matching tracks.

Key control and dynamic display
Key is just as important as BPM. Cross DJ displays it straight into the deck header. Match it automatically to the master deck, or change the pitch manually by semi­tones. The dynamic key display reflects those changes, and turns white when in harmony.

Browsing by key is now super easy: key compatible tunes are highlighted in bright orange. Focus on other search criteria, and the key still pops up.

Easy browsing with new full screen collection
Selection is the heart of DJing. The collection view is now more intuitive than ever with the new mini­players. It gives more space to browse tracks, while keeping an eye on what’s playing. Additionally, you can now drag and drop tracks between players and samplers ­ useful when you have only one turntable or CDJ.

Peak view markers : better understanding of track structure
DJs are used to production software grids to understand a track’s structure. Cross DJ is the first DJ application to show those markers on the track’s peak view, making it easy to mix musical phrases.

Mapping for Pioneer DDJ-­SX and more
Mixvibes’ philosophy is to be as open as possible. Cross DJ 2.5 introduces one to one mappings of the latest popular controllers:

  • Pioneer DDJ­SX
  • Numark 4TRAK, N4 and Mixdeck Quad
  • Vestax Spin 2
  • NI Kontrol S4 and X1

What else is new in this update?

  • Do advanced MIDI mappings with MIDI macros (i.e. assign multiple functions to one button)

Watch the Video: http://youtu.be/CV1Ukld8CAM
This update is free and available for Cross, Cross DJ and Cross DJ Free.

Download Cross 2.5: http://www.mixvibes.com/content/products/cross­
Download Cross DJ 2.5: http://www.mixvibes.com/content/products/crossdj
Download Cross DJ Free 2.5: http://www.mixvibes.com/

About Mixvibes
Mixvibes has developed DJ apps for Mac, PC, iPad and iPhone for over 10 years. It is also the company behind Pioneer’s rekordboxTM, worldwide club standard music management software.

Cross / Cross DJ Main features

  • 4 players
  • 2x 8 pad samplers
  • Ultra­accurate synchronization for ultra­easy beat matching
  • Sync link mode (with master deck)
  • Complete DJ Mixer with 3­band EQ, volume faders, cross­fader, level meters and direct access bi­filter
  • Parallel waveforms and track overview display
  • Modular user interface
  • Smart seek (jump playback position using increments of 1/32 to 32 beats)
  • Snap and quantize
  • Slip mode
  • 8 hot cues/loops per track
  • Hot sampling
  • Advanced beat grid editor for tracks with irregular bpm
  • Auto loops (1/32 to 32 beats)
  • Built­in key detection engine
  • Dynamic key control and display (harmonic or classic notation)
  • Keylock
  • Pitch fader and pitch bend
  • Pitch range from 4% to 100%
  • 14 audio effects
  • Audio Recording
  • Autoplay

Collection

  • iTunes integration
  • Advanced media management (smart playlists, in­key tracks hightlighted, filter search, color coding, tag editing,…)
  • Import libraries from Rekordbox and other DJ software (Traktor, Virtual DJ,…), including beat grid and hot cues
  • History playlist to keep track of previous sessions
  • Loopmasters sample banks offered

External control

  • Over 60 MIDI controllers support (Pioneer, Hercules, Numark, etc.)
  • Mapping editor with macros
  • Advanced audio routing
  • External soundcard support
  • All main audio formats compatible : MP3, M4A, WAV, AIFF, FLAC, OGG, AAC, …
  • 5 languages supported
  • Cross DJ iPhone & iPad Remote application support
  • Video Plug­in available

UPDATE: MixVibes Cross DJ 2.5 gets key detection

There’s a lot going on in this update, but considering the importance being placed on harmonic mixing by the assorted software vendors, this is quite a major implementation that does rather put everyone else to shame.

Many of us are used to trying tracks out and waiting for the DJ equivalent of nails on a blackboard in our headphones, and having to remember tracks that do and don’t work together. But with this feature being front and centre of your screen, nailing a mix that doesn’t set teeth on edge has never been easier.

I’ve got a submitted review of Cross ready to go. Well I did until this update came out, so I’ll have to revisit and update it accordingly, but given the features, it’s well worth the effort. Good work MixVibes!

Mark Settle
Mark Settle

The old Editor of DJWORX - you can now find Mark at WORXLAB

Articles: 1228

16 Comments

  1. This will be the “Keyfinder” open source software then?

    The developer stated he was working with a major software company recently on the Serato forums.

    It’s very, very good.

  2. Mixvibes Cross is one of those programs when you start using it you hate your self for not finding it sooner. It has given me the same feeling as switching to Mac. I totally love everything about it although there are something that still can be improved.

  3. Another fantastic update from the Mixvibes!
    This software really deserves to be at the top of the list. These guys are always listening to their users and constantly improving their software. Software is totally stable and uses very little cpu compared to Serato & Traktor. Beat detection (and now key) is very good. Super tight timecode, compatible with ANY soundcard, video plugin available, fully mappable with any controller and a remote option. Friendly & very helpful forum. All at really great prices, it doesn’t get much better than that! Well done Mixvibes!!

    • You forgot the database is Completely Rekordbox compatible as well so a pretty seamless transition if you need to do a CDJ set or keep a backup handy. Why the hell are DJ software playlists all not bloody standard – oh why ?

      • It’s a question I have asked over and over. And the only logical answer seems to be that it’s a commercial decision to lock people into particular software. For the end user however, it’s nothing but a ball and chain.

  4. Mixvibes really are pushing out the bigger boys – all we need is full stable VST plugin support and there will be absolutely no contest. I know a lot of DJs who have made the switch over to Cross, myself included

  5. Does anyone know if you can use any soundcard/timecode for dvs on mixvibes, or you have to use a proprietary soundcard/timecodss? I know this isn’t completely relevant to the article, but I’m not patient enough to wait for the review.

Leave a Reply