subject: Product Review - Is the Behringer BCD3000 the right Mixer for you? [print this page] Product Review - Is the Behringer BCD3000 the right Mixer for you?
Behringer BCD3000 DJ Mixer Review
I'll say one thing for the Behringer BCD3000 DJ Mixer... for the price, it's one versatile piece of hardware. On the plus side, it's feature rich out of the box. It combines dual play, mixing (with 4-channel USB audio interface), mic/phono preamps, dedicated effects, full-fledged monitor section, multiple audio format capability, comes with Traktor 3 LE DJ software but easily integrates other DJ software, Windows/Mac compatible and much more.
The vast majority of complaints I've seen appear to be related to o/s freeze-ups and software crashes and more specifically, with compatibility issues. In fairness, running 'any' hardware without checking it's compatibility specs first is frankly... foolhardy. It actually works fine when not being mishandled or linked to a system that it is incompatible with. Setup is easy enough though time consuming. However, 64 bit support as far as I can tell is nonexistent.
Despite a vast range of attractive features, the BCD3000's interface is smaller than one might expect. This translates into (most notably) small spinners which could make scratching challenging for some. That aside, it's overall functionality is more than acceptable. The Traktor 3 LE software integrates nicely with iTunes playlists and greatly enhances stability. Sliders, knobs and buttons while crowded are well placed. Responsive scratching control, decent performing Midi, impressive beat jumping and convenient hook-up to your turntables (for simultaneous mp3/vinyl mixing) are all relative.
What you're getting with Behringer's BCD3000 DJ Mixer is a model for enthusiasts & pro-sumers with some moderately advanced features and enough versatility to be a consistent performer. It's the type controller that can take one's minimal skills to the next level if so inclined. The unit is transportable, durability is acceptable and cost is nominal (especially considering it's features). The BCD3000's main downside is it's marginal size but one really can't expect perfection.
