Gemini G4V - User Manual

O P E R AT I O N S M A N U A L | M A N UA L D E I N S T R U C C I O N E S
M A N U E L D ’ I N S T R U C T I O N S | B E D I E N U N G S H A N D B U C H
W W W. G E M I N I S O U N D . C O M

Summary

Introduction and Setup

Preparing for First Use

Ensure all included accessories are found with the controller.

Connecting to a Computer

Connect the controller to your computer and configure DJ software settings.

Connections

Audio and USB Connections

Connect Master, Booth, Aux outputs, USB, Headphones, and Mic inputs.

Playback Controls

Track Navigation and Loading

Browse tracks/folders, select decks, load tracks, play/pause, and cue.

Tempo and Sync Adjustment

Control Pitch, Sync, Jog Wheel, Cup, and Cue functions.

Cue Controls

Master Cue Point Management

Set, adjust, and return to master cue points.

Hot Cue Operations

Set, play, and delete hot cues using performance pads.

Sample Controls

Sample Management

Browse, record, play, adjust volume, and delete samples.

Loop Controls

Loop Modes and Operation

Use Auto Loop, Loop Roll, Manual Loop, and Loop Move functions.

Loop Deletion

Delete a loop by holding SHIFT and pressing the performance pad.

FX Controls

FX Selection and Parameters

Select, enable/disable, and adjust FX parameters.

Mixing Controls

Channel Mixing Elements

Controls for Gain, EQ, Track Fader, Filter, PFL, Cross Fader, and Master Volume.

Headphone Mixing

Adjusts the headphone mix between cue and master signals.

Troubleshooting

MIDI Messages and Errors

Understand MIDI communication and resolve device recognition issues.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Cue Controls
4. Sample Controls
5. Loop Controls
6. FX Controls
7. Maintenance Features
8. Troubleshooting

The Gemini G4V/G2V is a professional DJ controller designed to enhance the DJing experience through advanced technological features, cross-platform connectivity, and high-quality sound reproduction. This device is built for both aspiring and professional DJs, offering a robust set of controls and functionalities for mixing, scratching, looping, and sampling. With proper care, the unit is expected to provide years of reliable service and comes with a 1-year limited warranty.

Function Description:

The G4V/G2V operates as a plug-and-play device, meaning it requires no additional software installation to function with your computer and DJ software. It is compatible with both PC and MAC operating systems, utilizing its audio and MIDI drivers for seamless integration. The core function of the controller is to provide tactile control over various aspects of DJ software, allowing for intuitive and dynamic performances.

Each channel on the G4V/G2V features a rotary GAIN CONTROL, a 3-BAND EQUALIZER (High, Mid, Low), and a TRACK FADER. These controls enable precise adjustments to the tonal characteristics and volume levels of individual tracks. The GAIN CONTROL manages the input signal's gain, while the 3-BAND EQUALIZER allows for detailed frequency manipulation across low, mid, and high ranges. The 60mm TRACK FADERS provide smooth control over each channel's sound volume, ranging from -∞ to 0 dB.

A notable feature is the FILTER effect, which acts as a band-pass filter. This allows DJs to selectively filter out either high or low frequencies. In its center position, the filter has no effect. Moving the control to the left gradually removes high frequencies, leaving only the low-end (bass), while moving it to the right progressively removes low frequencies, emphasizing the high-end (treble).

The PFL (PRE-FADER LISTEN) function allows DJs to monitor tracks through the cue/headphone output before they are played through the master outputs. This is crucial for beatmatching and preparing tracks. The CROSS FADER facilitates smooth transitions and mixing between two assigned virtual decks within the DJ software. The CROSS FADER ASSIGN buttons (1, 2, 3, 4) enable flexible assignment of decks to either side of the crossfader.

The MASTER VOLUME controls the overall output level of the mix for both left and right master channels. The integrated VU METER provides visual feedback on the master output levels, helping to prevent signal distortion. The CUE MIX control adjusts the balance between the PFL (cue mix) and PGM (master output) in the headphone output, allowing DJs to customize their monitoring preference.

Usage Features:

The G4V/G2V offers comprehensive playback controls for navigating tracks, setting cue points, and managing loops and samples.

Browsing and Loading Tracks: The BROWSE rotary encoder allows for easy navigation through files and folders in your DJ software. Pressing the encoder selects a highlighted folder or track, while the LOAD buttons load a selected track. The BACK button returns to the previous folder.

Deck Control: The DECK SELECT button (available on G4V only) toggles physical deck controls between virtual decks in the DJ software, providing flexibility for multi-deck mixing.

Play/Pause and Cueing: The PLAY/PAUSE button initiates or pauses track playback. The CUE button sets a cue point at the current position when paused, and pressing it again returns the track to that cue point. The CUP button allows for momentary playback from the current cue point, resuming playback upon release.

Jog Wheel Control: The JOG WHEEL can operate in SCRATCH mode for vinyl-style scratching. Holding SHIFT + SEARCH enables the jog wheel to search through the track in either direction.

Synchronization and Pitch Control: The SYNC button automatically matches the BPM of a track with another playing or cued track. The PITCH CONTROL FADER adjusts the track's tempo/pitch, with SHIFT + RANGE allowing for adjustment of the pitch fader's range in the DJ software. The KEY LOCK feature maintains the original pitch while adjusting tempo.

Slip Mode: SLIP MODE allows playback to continue silently underneath effects like scratches or loops, ensuring the track's timing remains uninterrupted.

Cue Controls:

• Setting a Master Cue Point: Set a cue point at the current position while paused.
• Adjusting the Master Cue Point: Fine-tune the cue point position using the jog wheel after it's set.
• Returning to the Master Cue Point: Quickly jump back to the programmed cue point. Holding the CUE button allows for stutter start or preview.
• Setting Hot Cues: The PERFORMANCE PADS can be used to set and trigger up to eight hot cues at specific points in a track.
• Playing Hot Cues: Instantly jump to and play from a recorded hot cue by pressing the corresponding pad.
• Deleting a Cue: Hold SHIFT and press the PERFORMANCE PAD storing the cue to delete it.

Sample Controls:

• Browsing Samples: Navigate through sample banks using BANK UP/DOWN or SHIFT + BANK DOWN.
• Recording a Sample: Use the PERFORMANCE PADS to record samples by marking start and end points during playback.
• Playing a Sample: Trigger recorded samples by pressing the illuminated PERFORMANCE PAD.
• Sample Volume: Adjust the global volume for all samples on a deck using the SAMPLE VOLUME knob.
• Deleting a Sample: Hold SHIFT and press the PERFORMANCE PAD storing the sample to delete it.

Loop Controls:

• Auto Loop: Set predefined loop lengths (1/8 to 16 bars) using the PERFORMANCE PADS.
• Loop Roll: Momentarily play a loop of a desired length while holding down a PERFORMANCE PAD.
• Manual Loop: Use SHIFT + MANUAL LOOP to access manual loop functions, including setting loop in/out points, reloop/exit, loop on/off, doubling/halving loop length, and moving the loop.
• Loop Move: Adjust the start point of an active loop using the LOOP MOVE knob.
• Deleting a Loop: Hold SHIFT and press the PERFORMANCE PAD storing the loop to delete it.

FX Controls:

• FX Select: Use SHIFT + FX SELECT to cycle through available effects in your DJ software.
• FX On/Off: Toggle the selected effect on or off.
• Parameter 1 & 2: Control predefined parameters of the active effect using the PARAMETER 1 and PARAMETER 2 knobs.

Maintenance Features:

The G4V/G2V is designed for durability and ease of use. While specific maintenance features are not detailed, the manual emphasizes the importance of proper care to ensure years of reliable service. This typically involves keeping the unit clean, protecting it from spills, and ensuring proper ventilation.

Troubleshooting:

• MIDI Messages: The controller communicates via MIDI messages, which can be re-mapped within your DJ software for custom functions. Consult your DJ software's manual for instructions.
• MIDI Errors: If the computer doesn't recognize the device, try powering the unit off and rebooting the computer. Ensure your DJ software is updated to the latest version. If the G4V/G2V mapping isn't listed, visit geminisound.com for downloads and support.

The device's connectivity options include XLR and RCA Master Outputs, RCA Booth Output, RCA Aux Input, USB Output, Power Input, Headphone Output, and Mic Input. These allow for integration with various audio systems, monitors, and external devices. The 1/4" Headphone Output and Mic Input further enhance its versatility for monitoring and incorporating vocals or other auxiliary sources into the mix.

Gemini G4V Specifications