In this second part of our review of the LBT-DJ2i, we’ll take you through some of our thoughts on the system’s design, features and usability. If you remember when we showed you the hands on video in part 1 of our review. You will notice that the LBT-DJ2i isn’t designed to be like a mini stereo hi-fi system, instead it’s been designed and equipped with hardware suited even for hosting music at large party venues and events.

Consisting of two medium bass reflex, lightweight speakers and a dual 7-inch subwoofer, the LBT-DJ2i is a high-powered audio system that features 450 watts of total power, two iPod docks and a CD-R/CD-RW and MP3 player for mixing in two sources of music.

Though we felt the plastic material of the main LBT-DJ2i control deck component did not meet the standard we hoped for of its price range, the design and position of key controls such as volume control, mixers were satisfactory. Input ports such as Aux jack were conveniently located. Overall design wise, the LBT-DJ2i is bulkier than one would think from just looking at the official picture.

In terms of features and functions, if you’re looking to get involved as a novice / amateur DJ, the LBT-DJ2i features XROSS FADE which allows users to mix and play music from iPods, CDs and other sources mentioned above. The system can also then conveniently save the mixing session to a USB device as MP3 format. The LBT-DJ2i also sports MP3 Booster+ to improve the audio quality of MP3 files. With Beat Blend which provides pre-programmed percussion and drum loops. You can showcase your DJ skills and make the most of your music set via the monitor queue which makes it simple to line up songs through your headphones and mix, change or fade into the next song without missing a beat. Other specifications of the LBT-DJ2i includes D-Light sync, VACS anti distortion system and Groove / Z-Groove bass boost function (demonstrated in video in part 1).

Overall, with regards to usability, the Sony XROSS FADE LBT-DJ2i system is perhaps the easiest and most straight forward mix station that any novice starting DJs can get their hands on. Though not difficult to setup, it is however not the most convenient to carry around if you plan on carefully repacking it back into its boxes on every gig. While its original price tag retailing from Sony themselves was at £389 originally, just running a simple search on Amazon has revealed the latest deal from new to be approximately in the price range of £299.99 – £199.99. Yes, while we do agree that its overall appearance may not be most appealing comparing to others alike available in the market, we can assure you the sound quality you get once it is plugged in will definitely not disappoint yourself and any of your guests at any party event.

If you’re interested, you can also have a look at some pictures from the gallery of the Sony LBT-DJ2i we took during unboxing…

To conclude we’ve summed up some of the main pros and cons of the LBT-DJ2i.

Pros:

• Easy to use
• Sound quality will definitely not disappoint
• Compatibility ranges from iPod to USB
• Excellent range of features and functions for novice DJs
• Allows music mixing and MP3 creation

Cons:

• Retail price originally was high
• Bulky
• Control deck and buttons felt very plastic for its price range