If you’ve been DJing for more than a few years chances are good that you have purchased at least one piece of equipment from Numark. The recently released Numark V7 is a totally digital media controller interface (MIDI) that lets you DJ in your own style whether you prefer to loop, effect, scratch or sample. You can do all of this from the comfort of your laptop or desktop.
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The Numark V7 is based, in part on the Numark NS7, and just like the NS7 it shares the same seven-inch platter, design cues and even the same basic construction. If you looked at the Numark NS7 and decided it wasn’t for you, read my Numark V7 review to see if you should add this unit to your kit.
Numark V7 Hardware
The platter that you get with the Numark V7’s is virtually identical to the platter found on the Numark NS7. The platter motor has high torque and the slip mat makes the vinyl controller on top accommodating for DJs who like to scratch. It pleases me to inform you that there is absolutely no lag when you use the Numark V7 in conjunction with the Serato Itch Software; they simply compliment each other that well. The Platter is adjustable from 33RPM to 45RPM so you get the speed that feels most comfortable to you as you mix. You can also customize the tension and torque as you see fit.
The platter controls have separate start time and stop time knobs so you can control how quickly or slowly the platter starts and stops. The motor off button will completely disable the platter control when it is illuminated.
The pitch control slider is quite smooth and made from a sturdy plastic that makes it ideal for transporting from one location to another. A blue light indicates when pitch is at 0% so you can control it even in the darkest of rooms. The master tempo button lights up when it’s activated so you can change the tempo without affecting the key.
The loop portion of the Numark V7 is located in the upper left corner of the unit and you should find it fairly self explanatory. It is pretty straightforward like most loop function found on similar units.
Finally, the file navigation system on the Numark V7 lets you control the software straight from the deck rather than from the computer. All you need to do is scroll through the crates and files with the selector knob. Use the knob to select tracks, load tracks and navigate through the decks with ease.
Numark V7 Software
The Numark V7 unit includes Serato ITCH software which is very simple to install. The software is straightforward to use. Whatever you need to do there is a button, knob or control that corresponds to that function within the software. If you have any questions about the Numark V7 software use the quick start guide for assistance.
The Serato ITCH software supports an iTunes library as well as most other DJ software that is MIDI compatible.
Numark Set Up
Setting up your Numark V7 DJ controller is as easy as can be. Take the unit of the box, stand in awe for a moment of the beauty of the unit, then assemble the platter system. Again, if you have trouble just read the quick start guide and you’ll be fine.
Plug in the power cords and the link cable so you can use one USB interface rather than two. Set the decks and identify the deck location with the selector switch. Make sure the master deck is illuminated by the master button and you’re good to go.
Pop the Serato ITCH software into the CD slot and install the program. Plug and play; it really is just that simple.
Pros
- The platter is too small and it took some time to adjust to the size.
- Assembling the Numark V7 takes less than 5 minutes.
- Setting up Serato ITCH software was very easy.
- The unit is quite the looker.
- Everything you need to get started is in the Numark V7 box.
- All metal construction makes Numark N7 super sturdy.
- Two decks
- Smooth platter response time makes scratching a cinch.
Cons
- Platters are small and could stand to be a few inches larger.
- Scratch area on platters are way too small for most DJs.
- Some might find the cost a little steep for what you get. (I’m not one of them)
Should You Buy Numark V7?
If you decide to buy Numark V7 you will not be disappointed in the least. The unit is an eye-catcher; black and shiny and sturdy, which is a mobile DJs dream. Pick this baby up and party hop around town showing off!
This unit is easy to set up so even a beginner DJ can be operational in minutes. The platter response is stellar, which makes the Numark V7 great for turntable tricks and scratching to meet your DJ needs.
The problems with the Numark V7 are minimal; small platters and high cost. But after a few weeks using it the platter issue becomes non-existent. As for the Numark V7 price, well it’s a competitive price so other units with same specs will cost you about the same.
Overall the Numark V7 is a great unit, particularly so for DJs who rely heavily on a software or computer system for most of their DJing.
