No cross-fader, no EQs, no volume sliders, no pitch control, no booth out, no extra inputs... The Bird Electron Micro Mixer is definitely lacking in professional features, but professional DJs (like myself) aren't the primary market for this device.

With a sleek aluminum finish and two simple volume knobs, the Micro Mixer has two audio inputs and one output, making it perfect to plug in two iPods or other audio devices. Attach an iPod to each channel, connect the mixer to your favorite speakers, and you have yourself a party.

The Micro Mixer is an interesting idea, since more and more clubs and lounges are having "DIY DJ" nights, where patrons bring their iPods and take the stage themselves. But the lack of features on the Micro Mixer makes it impossible to blend from one song to another--DJs using the Micro Mixer have to do it the old-fashioned way. The device takes standard 3.5-inch inputs and has a standard stereo output. It costs about ¥9,600 ($79 USD), which puts it on par with other, more feature-rich DJ mixers, so don't expect to see this in clubs anytime soon. It's more of a gimmick than anything else.

[ via Engadget ]