Numark’s updated Mixstream Pro is an affordable standalone option, packing huge power into a compact format.
As part of the inMusic group alongside the likes of Akai, Rane and Stanton, DJ gear specialists Numark benefit from the shared development of their partner brands. Engine DJ operating system is generally considered to be the software behind Denon’s Prime players, but it isn’t exclusive to Denon. Numark’s Mixstream Pro Plus runs on the same software, which is a solid alternative to Pioneer’s Rekordbox with plenty of appealing features. Updated from the standard Mixstream Pro, the Plus is a standalone controller which packs a lot of power into a compact format.
In terms of its basic specifications, the Mixstream Pro Plus is a two-channel, all-in-one design with a high-definition seven-inch touchscreen. It’s fully standalone in operation, to the extent of including built-in speakers for practice sessions. Jog wheels are fairly large 6-inch touch-sensitive units with a good, responsive feel. Elsewhere, the layout is generally standard stuff, a well-established formula of central mixer section with effects paddles, four performance pads under each jog wheel and relatively short pitch faders. At under 60 centimetres wide and 30 centimetres deep, the Pro Plus weighs in under four kilograms, making it light and portable enough to be transported easily. It isn’t necessarily aimed at pro club installations, but the feature set of the Mixstream makes it a solid option for home use, house parties and occasional use in a bar or club setting. Build quality is certainly impressive for the price point, feeling like it’ll stand up to plenty of use.
The Mixstream Pro Plus is one of the most affordable standalone controllers available, but it doesn’t lack for features. You can see a lot of parallels with another inMusic group controller, the Denon DJ Prime Go. Both are two-channel designs, both have broadly similar features, although the Prime Go is battery powered and a definite step up in terms of build quality and professional feel. The Mixstream doesn’t miss out on any of the Engine OS features which you’d find in the more expensive Denon models; you can use advanced mix techniques like key matching or control lighting via Philips Hue. You can also perform scratches using the Smart Scratch feature, which is engaged via the jog wheels, allowing you to scratch the track that’s playing then automatically jump back to the right point in the track when you release the jog wheel.
Physically, the differences between the Mixstream Pro and the Pro Plus are negligible. The main differences come internally, where the newer model adds a chip required to stream music directly from Amazon Music but also – and more importantly for most users – acquires support for Serato and VDJ software. In terms of compatibility, the Plus is about as good as it gets. You can stream music from a variety of sources, including Dropbox, or you can load your music onto USBs or SD card. A standalone controller wouldn’t necessarily be the first choice for anyone who wants to use a laptop, but the option to control Serato adds versatility to the unit, perhaps if you wanted to invite a laptop-using friend round for a mix session.
We already knew that the Mixstream Pro was a solid, reliable and versatile option for newcomers to DJing or anyone wanting to make the step up from a smaller controller to a more professional all-rounder. The updates offered with the Pro Plus are relatively simple, but they add even more versatility to the design without any downsides whatsoever. In terms of value, the Mixstream Pro Plus comes in at £624, making it hugely competitive with other options on the market. It’s hard to find standalone alternatives anywhere near this price point. For comparison, Pioneer’s XDJ-RR comes in at £1,029, while Denon offer up the SC Live 2, Prime 2 and Prime Go all around the £1,000 mark. As such, the Mixstream Pro Plus is a bit of a bargain, offering one of the most comprehensive, professional-feeling all-round options at a price which just about counts as entry-level. After the success of the original Mixstream Pro, the Plus is a surefire hit.
Greg Scarth
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