Quality DJ Equipment Blog

Closing Down

2009-09-25T13:02:00.003Z

Quality DJ Is Closing Down!

Reduced prices are now available throughout the range of remaining stock.

Pioneer price increases!

2009-04-16T09:09:00.004Z

Pioneer is increasing prices across the board!

We still have stock of the DJm-700 and DJm400 at pre price increase prices!

Some of the price increases are quite huge so we can't do much to soften them:

CDj1000 mk3 UP to £899

DJm800 up to £1499

DJM909 up to £1499

These price rises will price pioneer out of the market for many users who will have to look around to their competitors for alternatives.

DJ Credit Crunch

2009-02-20T14:53:00.002Z

The DJ industry is suffering like everyone else from the downturn in global markets.

Most of the DJ Equipment on Quality DJ Equipment is supplied from the manufacturers in Euro's or Dollars and the recent weak value of the pound against these currencies means that prices are going up while the rest of the market drops to encourage trade.

Faced with price increases of an average of 15% the whole market place will slowly see these full increases work there way onto the street prices.

Like other retailers we have stock at pre-increase prices which and stock at these prices will be sold at these prices until exhausted.

One real casulty of this increse is the Pioneer CDJ 1000 which has had a remarkable £100 pound trade price increase which now makes this item a street price of £899

2009-02-18T16:57:00.004Z

DJ Videos - Best tutorials on the 'Net

Click Here!

DJ mag Tech Award results

2009-01-07T13:21:00.002Z

THE WINNING KIT

Here's the winning products in this year's DJmag Tech Awards…

Judges' Vote

With three contenders in each category, here's the kit that impressed our judges the most at the BPM show.

Tonium Pacemaker

- Most Innovative New Product

Ecler Evo5

- Best USB/FireWire DJ Mixer

Denon DN-HS5500

- Best Single Multi-Format Player

Pioneer MEP-7000

- Best Twin Multi-Format Player

Pioneer DJM-800

- Ultimate Club DJ Mixer

Pioneer SVM-1000

- Best Audiovisual Product

Native Instruments Traktor Scratch Pro

- Best Digital Vinyl System

Native Instruments Traktor Pro

- Best DJ Software

Allen & Heath Xone:2D

- Best Standalone Computer DJ Interface

Allen & Heath Xone:1D

- Best Compact DJ Midi Controller

DJ Mag readers were also given the opportunity to decide the best products in the following categories. Here's what came out on top…

Ecler Nuo4.0

- Best Analogue DJ Mixer Under £500

Mixed In Key

- Best DJ Tool

Pioneer DJM-400

- Best Effects Mixer Under £500

Denon DN-S1200

- Best MP3 Player Under £400

Best Scratch Mixer

Pioneer DJM-909

Ortofon Nightclub E MkII

- Best DJ Cartridge

Kam Star Cluster

- Most Innovative Light

Native Instruments Audio 8 DJ

- Best DJ Soundcard

Ableton Live 7

- Best Studio Sequencer Software

Sennheiser HD-25

- Best Headphones

Design the Next BEHRINGER DJ Mixer!

2008-10-30T11:56:00.000Z

Design the Next BEHRINGER DJ Mixer!
Complete the BEHRINGER DJ Survey and enter to win one of five DDM4000 Digital DJ Mixers!!

Click Here to take survey

NUMARK WEBCAST QUICK-ALERT

2008-10-30T11:28:00.002Z

This is just a quick message about the Numark live webcast tonight.

Here are the details:

Event: Live streaming webcast of Grand VJ
Presented by: Numark and DJS Pro Audio & Lighting
When: 7:00 pm EST Wednesday October 29, 2008
To view the live stream, click here.

Numark, Akai Profesional, ArKaos, and DJS Pro Audio and Lighting are teaming up to bring you a very special event featuring ArKaos and VJ Momo the Monster. Momo will show off the latest in cutting-edge video-mixing software, ArKaos GrandVJ that’s perfect for VJs, DJs, bands, and other performers.

Momo will demonstrate the hot software, which is distributed by Numark, using his weapon of choice, Akai Pro’s MPK49 keyboard controller. Join us tonight for the live webcast!

If you can't watch the stream live as it happens, use the same link shown above to view a replay of the stream.

Complete Kit Gives DJs Everything They Need to DJ Using A Computer

2008-10-29T13:43:00.001Z

For anyone who must have everyhtiong in one box!!

Now in stock!

See the Computer DJ in a box on Quality Dj Equipment

Numark, the world’s leading manufacturer of DJ technology, announces that Total Computer DJ in a Box, the perfect package for anyone who wants to start DJing, is now shipping.

Total Computer DJ in Box is a package consisting of Numark’s Total Control DJ controller, DJ|iO audio interface, HF125 DJ headphones and Native Instruments’ Traktor 3 LE DJ software. DJs can mix and scratch on Total Control, the scratch control surface designed expressly for computer DJs. DJ|iO enables DJs to get audio into and out of their computer for connection to PA system and for cueing with the included professional-grade HF125 headphones. The system is compatible with Mac and PC computers.

Total Control is laid out just like a DJ mixer or CD player, with scratch wheels, line faders, EQ knobs and a crossfader. Learning on Total Control enables DJs to move to any other DJ system with ease. Thirty-one buttons, 20 knobs and five faders give DJs powerful control capability, while USB powering frees DJs from the tethering of a wall outlet. Total Control is compatible with most DJ software and comes with pre-mapped controls for Traktor LE with no programming needed.

DJ|iO is a compact, rugged computer interface that gets audio into and out of a DJ’s computer on a USB connection. It has a microphone input, two sets of RCA outputs and a headphone output to handle all audio system connections. CD-grade, 24-bit, 44.1/88.2 kHz audio powered by ultra-low-latency ASIO drivers gives DJs the high-quality sound they expect from Numark.

HF125 DJ headphones feature seven-position adjustable earcups housing large 40mm mylar speaker drivers, a six-foot tangle-resistant cable and padding on the headband and earcups.

“There’s nothing that makes us happier than introducing the world of DJing to new people,” said Adam Cohen, Director of Business Development, Numark. “Total Computer DJ in a Box enables anyone to DJ, right now, with the music that’s already on their computer.”

MixMeister Scratch - Cool DJ scratch tool for iPhone

2008-10-09T13:32:00.002Z

We all love gadgets especially dj gadgets!

This stuff looks cool.. I guess DJs would love to play around with this native app. MixMiester Scratch let’s you perform a scratch anywhere, anytime – even right on top of any song in your iPod Touch or iPhone. MixMeister Scratch is both easy to use and fun. To get started, just choose from a list of included vinyl scratch sounds and start scratching. Scratch on top of your favorite tracks by selecting music to play from your iPod or iPhone. Then load MixMeister Scratch while the music plays and you can scratch on top of your music and adjust volume of the music in real-time using the touch interface.

Key Features

Comes with preset vinyl scratch sounds to choose from
Scratch on top of any existing song on your iPod Touch or iPhone
Control volume from within MixMeister Scratch
Works with all firmware versions

To Get this Native App, you will have to fill in a form - Click here.

PLASA 2008

2008-09-10T12:53:00.001Z

For the first year in many I did not make it down to Earls court for PLASA 2008!

Some of the quality DJ team stopped in past and have sent me back reports from the show.

With the advent of internet marketing, blogs and HD video the way new products are launched into the market has really changed and DJ shows like must take note!

BPM had a great start last year and looks like a different show to me it doesn't brand itself as a trade or a consumer show but does manage to cater for many different people in one weekend.

Anyway back to the new stuff we did find at plasa!

Numark is the main player showing off it's new wares with control being the buzz word of the year.

A new controller to compete with the Vestax VCI100 and some new turntable style controllers which look very familiar to some other products that we have seen on the sly recently!!

The Numark OMNI CONTROL.

The NS7 Vinyl controller / mixer et all!

NS7 Controller for Serato Itch at NAMM 2008

VCM600 on the way

2008-09-03T10:51:00.003Z

The VCM-600 is a DJ MIDI controller designed with Vestax mixer technology. 160 parameters of the DJ software can be assigned to the advanced control section, and has excellent compatibility with Ableton LIVE 6 and 7.

DUE TO LAND IN THE UK END OCT/NOV 2008

RRP £ 515.18 EX VAT.

Qualitydj

My BCD3000 doesn't work !! But it does I promise!

2008-08-28T12:31:00.000Z

We have lots of people have this problem with the BCD 3000. This post was prompted by lots of customers in Edinburgh and some following my popular youtube video: on show at the bottom of this post

The issue is that the BCD will run with standard drivers but to get fun functionality out of it you need the proper ASIO drivers and control panel that comes on the install disc.
When you plug in your BCD3000 you should have a small black box in your status icon next to your clock in windows XP.

When you double click on this it gives you a simple setup dialog for the sound card.

Select Advanced mode and output channels as shown above.

In trackor you then need to start file/preferences
then in audio setup-Soundcard check you have "BCD3000 ASIO" selected.

On the next Tab - Output Routing make sure you have external selected:

In output routing then select and assign the four outputs of the BCD to Monitor and master respectively.

If you don't see the small black box then download and run the exe below!
software here:
BCD3000setup_1-1-2-0.exe

Neil
Qualitydj

See the original video here!

BCD3000 Windows XP Driver setup

BlastCasts – Learn to Scratch with DJ Max Cooper

2008-07-28T15:45:00.001Z

Beginners Tips on the blog is something that's we don't yet have enough of so I will try to collate and add some new links to beginners content.

Here is a great little tutorial for beginners which goes over the basic of scratching.

Neil
www.qualitydj.co.uk

DNHD2500 Software updates!

2008-07-25T11:34:00.001Z

Denon
DJ Owner:

We are pleased to announce new software for your DN-HD2500
Media Player & Controller, that will enhance the performance of your
machine.

Latest Plug In’s: (v1400 - as of July,15 2008)
-Added:
Instant Playback from Cue stutter, A1, A2 STR modes when the PLAY button is
pushed simultaneously
-Added: .WAV Album sorting by Track ID3 tag, so Album
list appears in the same track order as your CD's
-Improved other minor bugs
listed with the firmware download

**Full details can be found in the
download

The DN-HD2500 is currently supported by these DJ applications
when used as a MIDI controller:

You can find more
information about this release and how to obtain the new software via the denon
website: http://denondj.com/plugin.asp?prod=DN-HD2500&x=25&y=5

The product can be found here on qualitydj

SL-DZ1200

2008-06-14T14:19:00.001Z

Behringer DDM4000 Midi Mixer review on SL-DZ1200.

This Mixer is now in stock at Quality DJ

Xone:4D Launches

2008-06-09T15:09:00.003Z

Xone:4D

Following our preview information about the new Xone:4D, we are also pleased to announce its official release. The mixer, which has the new 20 channel USB 2.0 soundcard has many new features to enhance the digital DJ's experience, such as many more MIDI control messages available, new BPM section and the UV sensitive legend for outstanding visibility and ease of use.

More details are now on the Xone website, www.xone.co.uk .

This will be launched to the public at the Sound Recording Technology show (part of LIMS) this week, so if you are attending the show, please visit us on stand F58.

This product is so new that we don't have it on the quality DJ Website yet!!

But click here in the next few days and it will be added to our listing!

Ortofon Evolution Headshell!

2008-06-06T15:04:00.002Z

Old School Evolves

Ortofon have released a headshell with a tasty design.

Words: David Eserin

The new headshell does not come cheap at £49 a pair, but
the new look enables you to add extra weight in the same colour as your
cartridge.

Its grip is curved so it's easy to keep hold of, and they're a perfect fit for any Ortofon OM series DJ cartridge.

PRODUCT: Ortofon Evolution

TYPE: DJ Headshell
PRICE: £49

OUT: Now

SPECS

* Easy-to-grip curved finger lift

* Unique design

* Numerous weight options

* Perfect fit for any Ortofon OM series DJ cartridge

* New designed OM mounting tool for easy
mounting included

See all our ortofon carts on quality dj equipment

DDM4000 Now in Stock!

2008-06-05T17:06:00.001Z

Finally in stock this well publicised mixer with effects and tracktor LE included in the box!

VCI300 Makes Club Debut

2008-06-04T13:14:00.002Z

The new VCI 300 will be featured as new product on our site over the next couple of days!

See the Product in action here and more info on the new VCI300 here.

See the current model the VCI100 here

New Akai Products for June

2008-06-03T12:52:00.003Z

New Products For June

Akai MPC2500 £849.00 Akai MPK49 £269.00
Akai MPD32 £219.00

We have added a number of additional Akai products to our online catalogue! Some of these will be available direct from manufacturer and some will be in store for demo please see product descriptions for more details

See all Akai products here!

The Waiting is over ... PCDJ Reflex has Arrived!

2008-06-03T11:30:00.001Z

PCDJ based in the US have been around the marketplace for a number of years and brought some of the first DJ software to the mass market.

This is the first major re-design from the bottom up that they have done and the results have been highly anticipated.

The software has some heavyweight backers with Denon supporting it in native Midi Support and giving away an LE edition with their products.

Get the PCDJ Reflex free trial version Here

Th PCDJ Reflex product retails at £199 on Qualitydj and is available as an
LE Version free with the Denon DNHC4500

Posted By QualityDJ Equipment

Denon releases new software for DNHD2500

2008-06-03T09:14:00.001Z

Denon have released the new software update for the popular DNHD2500

This brings the unit up to date along with the new DNHC4500 which is now shipping!

This includes the following main features noted below

We are pleased to announce new software for your DN-HD2500
Media Player & Controller, that will enhance the performance of your
machine.

Latest Plug In’s: (v1300 - as of June 2008)
-Added: Windows
Vista support in MIDI mode
-Added: support for new iPod Classic & Nano
(gen 6)
-Added: the ability to go back UP the search list from the Title
level
-Added: Album sorting by Track ID3 tag
-Added: Folder searching by
Player & Keyboard
-Added: “Hot List” Function by player and
keyboard
-Added: more Keyboard functions
-Added: USB Format tool, we can
now format NTFS drives to FAT32
-Improved other minor bugs listed with the
firmware download

**Full details can be found in the download

The
DN-HD2500 is currently supported by these DJ applications when used as a MIDI
controller:

You can find more
information about this release and how to obtain the new software via our
website: Here

Posted by Quality DJ Equipment from Quality DJ

Numark DDS80 MP3

2008-06-01T22:24:00.001Z

Numark DDS80 MP3 player

Numark have jazzed up their D2 digital media player.

Words: David Eserin

Front on

The new DDS80 still plays from virtually any USB storage disk and MP3 player, but now it has a posh new colour screen and comes with a rack drive unit.

The rack adds twin CD/DVD playback along with an 80GB hard drive to store your music. It's not fixed yet, but the price should be around £599 when it comes out in summer.

PRICE: £599
OUT: Summer 08
UK CONTACT: 01252 341 400
Link: numark.com

SPECS

* Large backlit, full-color display with revolutionary user interface
* Key lock support for maintaining key while tempo shifting
* Visual Track Profiles show energy changes for precise phrase searching
* Seamless looping, pitch control, scratching capability via jog wheels
* Text-search, letter-pick scrolling, and on-board playlist creation
* 3 USB ports for iPods, thumb drives and hard drives
* Play music from two devices simultaneously, including two songs from the same iPod
* Scratch with MP3, WAV and AAC (unprotected) files
* Pitch control with range up to +25% and down to -100%
* Beatkeeper™ technology with TAP override function
* Searches via two large jog wheels and uses skip peak searching in profiles
* 2 front-facing USB ports for additional expansion

Where is control going next?

2008-05-23T11:03:00.001Z

I have spent a load of time with my install hat on the last couple of weeks looking at some developments in control of automated house systems etc.

Control in Dj Equipment has certainly evolved hugely over the last few years in the same way that 12" record sales have declined the amount of new innovations in control have grown hugely.

The big manufacturers can be really slow and old fashioned with there ideas and often we find that small projects are swallowed up by the big boys and made there own!

The Pacemaker and Vitrual Dj to name a couple.

See this video below of another project based out of the box controller!!

Percussa Cubes basics from Livid Instruments on Vimeo.

What we are listening to!

2008-05-23T10:57:00.001Z

The current listening at QualityDJ

is from Buzzin Fly Radio Show with Ben Watt listen live above!!

Bullet proof Decks!

2008-05-20T12:32:00.001Z

Protect your decks with this innovative product from www.decksaver.co.uk

Stops dust and scrapes to your prized possesions fit the CDJ1000 mk3 and CDJ1000 MK 2

Technics Repairs - they last for ever!

2008-05-16T15:16:00.001Z

Marc from Scratchworx has been investigationg the rumours of Panasonic the worldwide monster that manufacturs 1200's and 1210's stoping production and support for certain models.

This may well effect our ability to carry out the same level of Technics repairs in the workshop in Edinburgh in the future. For now we have not experianced any problems in getting parts for the main models.

See the whole story here and an extract below:

the 1200s.com forum:

So
it seems the wonderful people @ Technics, actually Panasonic, or even
more so Matsushita Corp (the parent company of them all), has decided
to start discontinuing parts for the famed SL1200MK2 / SL1210MK2
turntables. They've started by discontinuing all of the Circuit Boards,
asking technicians to repair any issues at the component level on the
board. The problem is that some of these components are now also being
discontinued. More specifically they are discontinuing some very
important IC's (Integrated Circuits), which are pretty much what makes
this unit so powerful.

So, now what? We have a lot of Technics
1200 series turntables just sitting in the shop, waiting for repair,
but we can't do anything because we can't get parts. We are trying to
see if the MK5 or M5G parts will work, but haven't performed any tests
as of yet.

Common issues with the main board that affect these units are irregular pitch / drive issues:
- spins too fast
- spins too slow
- extremely slow start up
- washing machine affect (back and forth jerking)
- wont stop when the start/stop button is pressed

All
of these issues are directly related to one or more of the ICs on the
main board. So if you are experiencing any of these issues, I thought
it would be good to know what your up against.

Not sure what
the plan is, but we were told by a sales rep @ Matsushita, they
eventually want to phase out the MK2, and even the MK5 - which is the
purpose for the MK6 release!

Ableton live 7 coming to a store u know!

2008-05-15T22:47:00.001Z

Ableton is proud to announce the release of Live 7 LE, an
easy-to-use, professional-grade music-making solution that everyone can
afford. Live 7 LE is built on the same fundamental concepts as Ableton
Live, the music production and performance solution that has won
numerous awards for its innovative workflow and refreshing simplicity.
Offering most of Ableton Live 7's new features, the LE version makes
music-making fast, easy and fun. Ableton Live 7 LE gives you an
intuitive interface and pro features for recording, songwriting,
remixing and DJing. It includes:

Studio-quality recording up to 32-bit/192 kHz*
Sixty-four audio tracks and unlimited MIDI tracks per project
Powerful and creative MIDI sequencing for software instruments
More than twenty built-in audio effects, including a host of creative delays, filters, distortions, studio compressors and EQs*
Two software instruments-Simpler for creative sample-based synthesis, and Impulse for dynamic, sampled drums*
VST and AU effects and instruments support; automatic plug-in delay compensation*
Real-time time-stretching and warping of AIFF, WAV, Ogg Vorbis, FLAC and MP3 files for DJing and instant remixing
Real-time tweaking of Live's controls with any MIDI controller-just
MIDI-map it or choose from a list of popular supported controllers for
instant mapping
Single-screen user interface for simple, creativity-focused operation
Multicore and multiprocessor support

*Live LE is limited to two simultaneous stereo audio inputs and
outputs, twelve built-in audio effects, eight built-in instruments, two
AU/VST effects and two AU/VST instruments per project. Live 7 LE has
everything you need to start making music, including:

Sampled instruments: Essential Instrument Collection 2 LE Edition by SONiVOX and ChocolateAudio (boxed version only)
Loops and construction kits by Puremagnetik (boxed version only)
A wide selection of presets for Live LE's instruments and effects
Extensive built-in step-by-step tutorials
Printed reference manual in English
Localized software menus, tutorials and PDF reference manuals available in English, Spanish, French, German and Japanese

Available soon from qualitydj

PCDJ and Vestax ????? not what you think.

2008-05-10T10:49:00.001Z

Vestax launch new dedicated PCDJ website featuring all there computer contactable products:

Welcome to pcdj.vestax.com!
This website features new computer related Vestax products,
applications, support info, user reports and many other useful tips for
DJing with digital data.

TECHNICS SL-1200MK6 Happy Birthday SL

2008-05-10T10:45:00.001Z

TECHNICS SL-1200MK6 Direct Drive Professional Turntable

With the soon coming 35th birthday of the Technics SL1200 turntable,
Panasonic has released a limited edition of the legendary turntable.
The SL1200 MK6 will be available sometime!. Since its release
in 1972 approximately 350.000 units have been sold worlwide. The
limited edition will come in two regular color settings (SL-1200MK6K1
in black and SL-1200MK6 in silver).

Some of the 'below the surface' improvements:

• Improved tonearm mounting and oxygen-free copper wire being used for the signal.

• Improved vibration damping in the body.

• Improvements to the pitch control accuracy.

• Better LEDs.

• Possibly some motor improvements.

If and when the 'limited edition' MK6 will get to Europe is not
clear as of yet. All the information above comes directly from the
Japanese website. And even if we try to get a decent translation,
Japanese is a pretty tough language to master!

1. High-quality materials OFC (oxygen-free copper wire) adopted by the S-shaped tone arm

Arm and arm contact point to the base of high precision bearings and
pivot to set up the arm's next move (the horizontal axis of rotation)
and the vertical movement (vertical axis of rotation) Central match the
tone arm pivot point, arms control balance JINBARUSASUPENSHON sensitive
method in addition to the excellent performance in certain trace sound
reproduction possible to S-shaped tone arm mounted. To tone arm signal
line OFC (oxygen-free copper wire) to adopt it in the signal
transmission loss and distortion reduction and improved sound quality.

2．Further vibration damping to the realization of the three-tiered cabinet

T.N.R.C.（Technics Non Resonance Compound）、Cabinet high stiffness at
the top of the middle part of our own TNRC (Technics Non Resonance
Compound), a special heavyweight rubber at the bottom of a three-tiered
arrangement cabinet adopted for the good vibration damping to achieve.
Also seamless casting to it, at the top of the cabinet is an excellent
robustness and durability, lower special in the heavyweight rubber
antivibration and high resistance to degradation years has been to
reduce the use of depleted.

3． Continuous pitch control accuracy improvement

Traditional established vertical control circuit can be added to a
scale and the actual pitch and reduce variation in the pitch of
accuracy improves, more accurate possible.

4． Long-life high-intensity blue LED needlepoint adopted

Needlepoint LED (light-emitting diode) adopted by the
high-brightness long life to achieve. More beautiful blue LED light
sheen of the stage to play DJ school director.

5． DJs from around the world will be supported by the SL-1200 high-performance high reliability

Unique Turntable monolithic structure motor antivibration of
excellent special rubber molding of according to taste adjustable brake
stop DJ playing to support needle-pressure regulator feature
malfunctions to prevent power switch cabinet stands at the top of the
shell spare equipment mounting Department to add scale, the needle
pressure will be easy to reproduce. Pitch control instantly ± 0% of the
reset switch can be set.

35th anniversary of Premium model with limited sale "SL-1200MK6K1"

(1)

Series born 35 anniversary created limited gold disc. Exclusive use
frames and the wall mounting brackets and stand is included, so the
room can be utilized as an interior.

(2)

"The special booklet"
DJs from around the world supported by
the SL-1200 series history and the One & Only superior technology
are introduced in detail. In addition to the DJ world champion in an
interview also appeared, all 55 pages of specifications deluxe
hardcover edition saved Booklet.

No Bullshit Encoding digital Audio

2008-05-10T10:38:00.001Z

Another great article from Scrathlive!

Take off the bullshit glasses and listen to the good stuff below:

What is encoding?

Encoding is the process of changing the
format digital audio is stored in. There are two broad types of
encoding; compressed and uncompressed. Uncompressed audio is mainly
found in the PCM
format of audio CDs. For the most part, audio encoding means going from
uncompressed PCM, to some kind of compressed audio format.

Compressed audio is split into two groups, lossless and lossy.
Losslessly compressed audio can be decoded back into the exact
uncompressed audio you started with. This is useful for archiving audio
at the highest quality possible, and for people for whom storage space
is not an issue. Lossy compression involves some loss of information hence the term "lossy".

Some common audio formats

<u><b>Uncompressed</b></u>            <u><b>Compressed - Lossless</b></u>          <u><b>Compressed - Lossy</b></u><br />Audio CD                Apple Lossless Audio           Mp3<br />Audio DVD               TTA                            AAC<br />PCM WAV and AIFF        FLAC                           WMA<br />Record                  Monkey's Audio                 Mini Disc (ATRAC)<br />Cassette                Shorten<br />DAT                     WavPack</pre><h1>Re-Encoding</h1>A common question on the <a href="http://www.scratchlive.net/forum" title="http://www.scratchlive.net/forum" target="_blank">ScratchLIVE.net forums</a>
is if transcoding (converting a file from one lossy format to another),
or re-encoding into the same format with better settings will result in
a better quality file. The answer is a resounding "NO". The artifacts
from the initial lossy encoding will still be present, along with new
(possibly far worse) ones. It is a good rule of thumb to only ever
lossy encode from an uncompressed source.<br />
<br />
<h2>An example of transcoding</h2>Audio CD ➞ AAC ➞ MP3<br />
<br />
In the above example, the transcoding step is from AAC to MP3. The
quality of encoding will be greatly reduced in the final result. The
preferred alternative would be to go back to the original CD:<br />
<br />
Audio CD ➞ MP3<h1>Useful audio encoding links</h1><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audio_compression_%28data%29" title="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audio_compression_%28data%29" target="_blank">Wikipedia  audio compression article</a><br />
<a href="http://arstechnica.com/articles/paedia/The-AudioFile-basicsof-uncompressed-digital-audio.ars" title="http://arstechnica.com/articles/paedia/The-AudioFile-basicsof-uncompressed-digital-audio.ars" target="_blank">Ars Technica article on digital audio</a><br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sound_recording_and_reproduction" title="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sound_recording_and_reproduction" target="_blank">Wikipedia  sound recording and reproduction article</a><br /><br /><h1>File formats and codecs</h1><h1>Uncompressed</h1><h2>WAV and AIFF</h2>WAV
and AIFF are the standard file formats for uncompressed PCM audio.
Generally they will be the source material for your lossy encoded
files, unless you skip the step of making uncompressed files and go
straight from CD to lossy compressed encodings. <br />
<br />
The best practice would be to archive your uncompressed files
somewhere, and keep them to make new encodings from as technology
improves, or for purposes of keeping a backup.<br />
<br />
For more information check out the Wikpedia pages on them: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WAV" title="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WAV" target="_blank">WAV</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audio_Interchange_File_Format" title="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audio_Interchange_File_Format" target="_blank">AIFF</a><br />
<br />
<h1>Compressed</h1><h2>MP3</h2>MP3 is the compressed format most
prevalent on the internet and most universally supported by media
players. It uses lossy compression to greatly reduce the amount of data
needed to store the audio. For DJing applications, care should be taken
not to reduce the amount of data too far, to maintain the audio quality
of your files.<br />
<br />
<h2>AAC</h2>AAC is a more recent technology, intended as the successor
to MP3. It is the default encoder in Apple iTunes and is part of the
MPEG-4 specification. While AAC has many improvements over MP3, it is
less widely adopted at the time of writing, for instance AAC support in
Scratch LIVE will be added in version 1.8, and isn't currently on
release.<br />
<h2>Ogg Vorbis</h2>Ogg is an open source container format which can
contain all sorts of media, Vorbis is the open source lossy audio
compression format which uses the Ogg containers.<br />
<br />
Check out more information on Ogg Vorbis here:<br />
  <br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ogg" title="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ogg" target="_blank">Ogg</a><br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vorbis" title="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vorbis" target="_blank">Vorbis</a><br /><br /><h1>Encoding tools</h1><h2>What is an encoding tool?</h2>Encoding tools
are programs which create audio files in a particular format, generally
with options for adjusting various aspects of the file encoding
process. <br />
<br />
Here are a couple of basic options for getting started with making your own files.<br />
<br />
<h2>iTunes</h2>iTunes comes pre-installed on all Mac computers, and is
available free from Apple for Windows. iTunes can encode files of
various formats and settings<br />
<br />
For more information on iTunes, check out the <a href="http://scratchlive.net/articles/?article_id=3" title="http://scratchlive.net/articles/?article_id=3" target="_blank">introduction to iTunes</a> article.<br />
<br />
<h2>LAME Frontends</h2><a href="http://lame.sourceforge.net/index.php" title="http://lame.sourceforge.net/index.php" target="_blank">LAME</a> is a free MP3 encoder which is generally considered to give the highest quality results for VBR encodings at a given bitrate.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.dors.de/razorlame/index.php" title="http://www.dors.de/razorlame/index.php" target="_blank">RazorLame</a> is a LAME frontend for Windows, however it doesn't rip CDs.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.sbooth.org/Max/" title="http://www.sbooth.org/Max/" target="_blank">Max</a> is a Mac LAME frontend which includes CD ripping functionality.<br /><br /><h1>Encoder settings</h1><h2>Bitrate</h2>A file's bitrate is how many bits per second are used to represent the audio. So a 128 kbps file uses <i>128</i>,000 <i>bits per second</i> to encode an audio signal. The more bits used, the less information is discarded to create a compressed file.<br />
<br />
Bitrate therefore determines the size of a file. Here are a couple of examples at various bitrates:<br />
<br />
<pre><u><b>16bit 44.1KHz Stereo</b></u><br /><b>File Type</b>         <b>Uncompressed</b>         <b>320kps</b>             <b>192kps</b><br />5 Min Track             50 MB           11 MB             7 MB<br />15 Min Track            150 MB          33 MB             21 MB<br />80 Min Mixtape          700 MB          183 MB            110 MB<br />

Variable Bitrate

Variable bitrate (VBR) is a way of saving disk space. The bitrate
setting chosen is used as the maximum bitrate to be used, and when the
encoding algorithm decides it can get away with using less bits to
accurately represent a part of the audio, it does. Thus the bitrate
changes over the length of the file, hence the term variable bitrate.
Variable bitrate files can take slightly more CPU to decode than
constant bitrate files, due to the changing amount of bits.

Constant Bitrate

The meaning of constant bitrate or CBR is obvious. The same number of bits are used to encode every second of audio.

Wikipedia article on bitrate

Joint Stereo

Joint stereo is a technique where instead of encoding the left and right channels separately, the sum and difference
of both are encoded instead. Since both sides will tend to be very
similar, the difference will not require a lot of data, and thus the
size of the file is smaller than 'normal' stereo. This means more of
the bits can be used for the 'important' information, and thus the
quality will tend to be improved. It should be noted that some experts
think joint stereo techniques can impart artifacts on the audio, but in
general joint stereo is a good thing.

Joint Stereo: The Myths and The Realities

Some recommended starting points

If you have plenty of storage,
and want the best quality you can, the standard is 320 kbps CBR Joint
Stereo. If you find that you don't have enough room to store all your
music at that quality, a good compromise would be 224 kbps VBR joint
stereo.

It seems like a well established fact that you can't get away with bitrates lower than 192 kbps in a performance setting.

Beyond those starting points, it's up to you to listen to your encodings, and see what you like or not!

Good times :-)

Gain Theory Often ignored!

2008-05-10T10:36:00.001Z

The amount of times I we explain gain structure to customers is incredible.

This article from the Scratch Live Forums is a great little explanation for all of you who still cant do it!

Gain Theory

What is gain?

Gain is the process of
increasing the amplitude of your signal, or 'making it louder'. The
reverse process, making your signal quieter, is known as attenuation.

Headroom

Headroom,
as the name implies, is how much room there is between the average
level of your signal and the 'ceiling' - the maximum allowable level in
a given part of your system.

Headroom equates to how much gain you can apply before clipping

Clipping

Clipping
describes what happens to a signal when it's amplitude is greater than
the system will allow. Clipping can result in unpleasant loud
distortion.

Clipping is irreversible

Noise

Noise
is technically any unwanted portion of your signal. Generally in DJing,
it will be hiss, hum, or perhaps crosstalk interference from other
signals.

An analog audio signal will always accumulate some noise
during transmission, and minimising how much is best achieved by
keeping the signal as loud (hot) as possible while also avoiding
clipping. Signal to noise ratio (SNR) is the measure of how hot or high
the desired audio signal is above the noise floor of the system or
piece of equipment. Higher ratios meaning less background noise.

Poor gain structuring is almost always the cause of excessive noise in a system.

The noise portion of your signal will be affected by gain in the same
way as the rest, therefore it is less desirable for a quiet signal to
be transmitted than a loud one, if possible, while avoiding clipping.

For example a turntable phono output is very low level, and if transmitted for more than a couple of meters via standard cables, will accumulate a large amount of noise proportional to the material content.
When that signal is later turned up to line level by a phono pre-amp,
the result will be very noisy. Note the relevance of this to the SL 1
Thru outputs, if you use normal vinyl in your Scratch LIVE setup. Try
to use the shortest cables you can from the SL 1 to the mixer phono
inputs.

Putting Theory Into Practice

The ideal is to limit the points
in a system at which gain or attenuation is applied to two; One gain at
the input, and one attenuation before the power amplification. This
minimizes the possibility of poor signal to noise ratio in your system.

Metering

Meters tell you the level of your audio, usually the color red indicates clipping, or that you're approaching clipping.

In Scratch LIVE there are two meters, one for each deck. There are also
three gain controls, one for each deck individually as well as one
master gain affecting both sets of outputs equally. They indicate the
level of each output just before the signal is sent to your hardware.
If the meters are sitting just below the red, your signal is as loud as
it can be without clipping. This is generally what you will want.

Track Gain Tags

Each
audio file in your library can have a gain value associated with it. If
you have files which are too quiet, or too loud, you can correct this
using the track gain knob in Scratch LIVE, and that setting will be
saved into the gain tag.

In Scratch LIVE 1.7 we introduced an Auto Gain feature, which does this step automatically. Check it out in the manual.

SSL Master Gain

If your tracks peak just under maximum level, the master gain in Scratch LIVE should remain at 12'oclock.

Do not be tempted to crank the master gain "into the red"
to get some more level into your mixer; all you will be doing is
clipping your audio, distorting the music before it even exits your
computer.

It should be noted that the track and master gains inside Scratch LIVE make up a single overall
SSL gain (or attenuation) value for each deck's output. So in practice
you should set your SSL master gain so most of the tracks in your
library are just below clipping on the SSL meters, and then adjust
individual tracks as needed to bring them to the right level.

Mixer Input Gains

In the signal flow diagram, you can see some
other sources coming into the mixer, normal vinyl from a turntable, and
CDs. Your input gains on the mixer are a good place to even up
different sources.

Use the input gains in conjunction with the meters on your mixer to
make sure the loudest track you will play doesn't clip the mixer at all.

As usual, get it into the yellow or orange, not the red.

Mixer Channel Faders

With correctly set input gains and master
output on your mixer, the channel faders should purely be a tool to add
dynamics to your performance, and aid in smoothly transitioning between
tracks. You should be able to have your track faders all the way up
without distorting or going into the red on your mixer's output meters.

Mixer Master Output Gain

Even though it's being mentioned last,
you should try and set the mixer master output gain first thing when
you're setting up, or during sound check.

Play the loudest track in your playlist, set the input gain into the
mixer so it's not clipping internally, then set the master output gain
to the loudest level you're going to hit during you're set - or to the
specifications of the sound technician (if you have that luxury)

Final thoughts

Well, that's it for this introduction to gain
structure. Once you have the basic ideas in mind, you should find the
practical implications of gain structuring becoming more apparent as
you continue DJing.

There are many good books on audio theory available, and a ton of information available online, including the fabulous Rane Professional Audio Reference, and of course, other DJs right here on the Scratch LIVE forum :-)

DIY DJ Controllers: A Vestax VCI-100 With Real Vinyl

2008-05-07T14:46:00.001Z

DIY DJ Controllers: A Vestax VCI-100 With Real Vinyl

By Peter Kirn

There are various ways to bridge the gap between vinyl records and computers, as we saw last week. You can cut records with digital timecode. You can build controller hardware
that simulates the resistance of a motor, or mechanically control
digital media using the turntable platter. And then there are the brute
force methods, like strapping mice to turntables.

Squarely in the brute-force camp, our friend Ean Golden at DJ Tech
Tools has added 7" records to the wheels on Vestax’s VCI-100 USB
controller. If you want to do the same violence to your VCI-100 (I love how abused Ean’s VCI is looking, especially with those custom arcade buttons), Ean has a tutorial:

Add Records to your VCI-100 Jog Wheels [djtechtools.com]

The VCI still doesn’t feel like a turntable; I think it’s best
thought of as something new and digital. And you do lose access to some
of the controls. But I love that it’s customized in this way. Maybe
I’ll add hubcaps to mine.

Credit

3D becomes 4D

2008-04-26T13:27:00.001Z

Credits to Scratchworx for the image above!

Along with all the company changes at Allen and Heath the flagship Xone range has a new leader in the 4D.

New features to include the following:

• New USB2 soundcard
• 24bit/96kHz capability
• Drivers available for both PC and Mac
• 4 stereo outputs plus digital out
• 4 stereo inputs plus digital in
• 8 extra soundcard configuration switches remove the need for the desktop configuration utility of the :3D
• Ability to switch FX2 RCA sockets to be recording outputs
• Unique real-time LFO waveform edit function
• Dual layer control surface with control snapshot allows 225 mappable MIDI controls across the two layers.
• Updated mixer circuitry
• Improved BPM detection system
• Heavy duty chassis and front panel

Price not yet confirmed but suspected to be around £1500.00

Pioneer Announce MEP-7000 Multi Entertainment Player and SEP-C1 Software Controller

2008-04-26T13:14:00.001Z

Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. Professional Sound and Visual
Division, the leader in Pro DJ products and the innovator of the CD
turntable, today unveiled the latest addition to its family of DJ
compact disc players, the MEP-7000, Professional Multi-Entertainment
Player and the SEP-C1, Professional Software Entertainment Controller.
Pioneer’s DJ CD players have established a worldwide reputation for
their superior performance for both professional and amateur DJs,
continuing to strengthen their status as an industry standard.

“Both the MEP-7000 and SEP-C1 correspond to the trend of laptops
being utilized by professional DJs,” said Matt Dever, vice president
for Pioneer’s Professional Sound and Visual Division. “Recent
developments have changed the way mobile and club DJs catalog and play
their music. No longer are they carrying crates of vinyl or even books
of CDs full of music. Laptops, USB flash media and hard drives are fast
becoming the commonplace in the DJ rig.”

The MEP-7000 is a compact, easy-to-transport Professional
Multi-Entertainment Player inheriting the basic functions and
operability of the popular Pioneer CDJ- series turntables. In addition
to playback of conventional music from CD/CD-ROM/DVD-ROM discs, the
MEP-7000 enable users to play MP3/AAC files stored on various memory
media formats. The dual-player is extremely convenient for DJs
performing in an environment where space dedicated for the jock is
limited and flexible media playback is a must, such as a café or bar
where various parties or events are held. The system also enables DJs
to easily create and set up pre-programmed play lists for “gigs” at
such times as a dinner hour set or a break.

The SEP-C1 Professional Software Entertainment Controller is a dual
MP3 music controller which allows the user to manage and control
playback of audio files stored on a PC. It emulates the full-scale DJ
performance of the CDJ series operability without the need of a mouse
or keyboard.

MEP-7000 Professional Multi-Entertainment Player features:

Flexible Audio Format Playback - As well as playback of
traditional audio compact discs, the MEP-7000 supports
MP3*1/AAC/WAV*2/AIFF*2 stored in a USB memory devices, hard disc drive
(HDD) and CD-R/RW and DVD±R/RW allowing for easy playback of existing
music libraries and new digital downloads.
4.3-Inch Color LCD & Intelligent Graphical User Interface -
In addition to the high-resolution 4.3-inch color LCD panel, an
intelligent graphic user interface and rotary selector enables rapid
track search through large collections of digital audio files. A play
list function also speeds the track selection process for recalling
frequently played songs.
Control Functions for Pioneer’s DJ software (DJS3) and Other PC Applications -
The MEP-7000 includes Pioneer’s DJS all-in-one DJ software application
for playback from a Windows based computer (PC not included). When the
system is connected to the DJS, no mouse or keyboard is required for
navigation and DJ performance. The MEP-7000 also supports control of
other software, such as SERATO Scratch LIVE*4, without the need of the
control discs. It can also act as a full MIDI controller for any
MIDI-compatible PC application.
Scratch Jog Effect and Digital Jog Break enhance DJ performance -
In addition to traditional scratching, the MEP-7000 also features two
patterns of Scratch Jog Effects – BUBBLE5 and TRANS5. Three patterns of
Digital Jog Break effects freely control the audio effects according to
the rotation of the jog dial – JET*6 / ROLL*6 / WAH*6 broadening the
scope of any DJ performance.
Auto Mix Function - An auto mix function automatically mixes
playback of the tracks registered on the play list in four modes such
as ECHO or ZIP. Audio is seamlessly beat matched and mixed on the fly.
Industry’s First*7 Area-Color Organic Electroluminescence (OEL) Display -
Two high-visibility Area-Color OEL displays provide outstanding
visibility for the pitch, playback time and position information.
Together with its main 4.3-inch color LCD, the OEL display ensures
smooth DJ play regardless of lighting conditions.

Other Functions:

Karaoke Mode: Full support for CD+G playback for karaoke performance.
Library Function: Allows selection of tracks from various categories like genre, artist, etc.
Tempo Control Range: The user can choose among four pitch ranges available for the tempo slider: ±6％, ±10％, ±16％, and WIDE.*8
Pitch Bend Button: Enables fine adjustment of the track speed by simply pressing a button.
Seamless Loop: Repeats looped audio without interruption. A loop can be set from as small as one frame up to an entire CD’s length.
Hot Loop: Restarts the loop seamlessly from its entry without interruption of the music.
Memory Cue/Loop: Allows the user to store any CUE/LOOP point to the player’s internal memory.
Auto BPM Counter: Measures and digitally displays a track’s tempo.
Digital Output Terminal: A digital audio output is available for the highest quality connection.
Monitor Out Terminal: Provides a composite video output for karaoke display or larger view of the main display.
Keyboard Support: Users can select tracks rapidly by using an external USB keyboard (sold separately).
Legato Link Conversion: Reproduces richer and more natural sound by up-sampling the audio information lost in CD format.
Vibration Proof Construction: Shock-proof memory plus the
same floating mechanism used in Pioneer’s mobile entertainment audio
components to prevent skipping and resist vibration.
Rack-Mount Ready: Ready for rack-mount which is useful for mobile/club/studio installations.

SEP-C1 Professional Software Entertainment Controller features:

Control Pioneer’s DJ software (DJS*3) and Other PC Applications -
The SEP-C1 includes Pioneer’s DJS all-in-one DJ software application
for playback from a Windows based computer (PC not included). When
connected to DJS, no mouse or keyboard is required for navigation and
DJ performance. Furthermore, the SEP-C1 supports control of other
software, such as SERATO Scratch LIVE*4, without need of the control
discs. The SEP-C1 is also a full MIDI controller for any
MIDI-compatible PC application.
4.3-Inch Color LCD & Intelligent Graphical User Interface -
In addition to the high-visibility 4.3-inch color LCD panel, an
intelligent graphic user interface and rotary selector enables rapid
track search through large collections of digital audio. A play list
function also speeds the track selection process for recalling
frequently played songs.
Auto Mix Function - An Auto Mix function automatically mixes
playback of the tracks registered on the play list in four modes such
as ECHO or ZIP. Audio is seamlessly beat matched and mixed on the fly.
Industry’s first*7 Area-Color Organic Electroluminescence (OEL) -
Two high-visibility Area-Color OEL displays give the SEP-C1 outstanding
visibility for the pitch, playback time and position information.
Together with its main 4.3-inch color LCD, the OEL display ensures
smooth DJ play regardless of lighting conditions.
DJS Effects Enhance DJ Performance - Eight effects within
Pioneer DJS (Delay, Echo, Auto Pan, Auto Trance, Auto Filter, Flanger,
Reverb and Pitch Shifter) add versatility to mixing performances. The
effects can be synchronized with the music tempo (BPM) at the click of
a button.

Other Functions

Tempo Control Range: Choose among four pitch ranges available for the tempo slider: ±6％, ±10％, ±16％, and WIDE8
Pitch Bend Button: Enables fine adjustment of the track speed by simply pressing a button.
Seamless Loop: Repeats looped audio without interruption. A loop can be set from as small as one frame up to an entire CD’s length.
Hot Loop: Restarts the loop seamlessly from its entry without interruption of the music.
Auto BPM Counter: Measures and digitally displays a track’s tempo.
Rack-Mount Ready: Ready for rack-mount which is useful for club/studio installations.

The MEP-7000 and SEP-C1 will be available in June with a manufacturer suggested retail price of $2,299 and $1,199, respectively.

Pioneer offers a complete line of professional DJ equipment through
its Professional Sound and Visual Division. Its DJM, CDJ and DVJ
Professional DJ equipment is known for its high quality sound and
reliability and is considered the industry standard at clubs, studios,
mobile rigs and homes around the world. For more information, visit
www.PioneerProDj.com.

MEP-7000 is a system product composed of control unit, drive unit (CD/USB playable) + DJ software “DJS”.

SEP-C1 is a system product composed of control unit + DJ software “DJS”.

Serato ITCH

2008-04-23T13:39:00.001Z

Following the details on the VCI-300 some more news of Serato hardware integrationSerato has an ITCH

Auckland, New Zealand (January 17th, 2008)

After more than two years in the making, Serato
Audio Research today announced a new DJ technology called ITCH.

Serato ITCH is an integrated software and hardware solution
for digital music selectors and DJs. Serato is working closely with
select hardware partners to offer a level of integration, ease of use,
and reliability never before seen in the digital DJ realm.

By design ITCH is simple: "It works straight out of the box"
says Serato's General Manager, Sam Gribben. "One-to-one hardware to
software mapping means that we can provide a system that is fully
featured, but still very easy to use."

"There's just one USB cable to your computer and an audio output to
your sound system. Plug in your headphones and you have a complete
portable DJ system with audio output, level control, crossfader and EQ."

The entire audio chain is delivered via Serato software and all mix adjustments are controlled by the ITCH
hardware. All audio is in the digital domain until the master audio
output, with Serato proven technology from beginning to end.

ITCH takes music lovers into a new territory that gives them the
ability to mix their music for fun or performance. If you use iTunes™,
you can use ITCH to physically control the playback and mixing of your
playlists. If you're a Serato Scratch LIVE user, you'll find that all
your crates, cues, and loops are available in both programs.

It became apparent once working with Vestax and Numark engineers,
that we could far surpass the usability and response of current DJ
Controller bundles. ITCH software is uncompromisingly matched with the
hardware and vice versa to ensure utmost reliability.

"When asked what data we wanted from a controller to our software
our response was 'how much can you give us?" says Future Products
Engineer, Bill Mitsakos. "I think it surprised our hardware partners
that we were insisting on high speed/high data rates when other
software was asking for less."

The first brands to announce future ITCH hardware are Numark and
Vestax. Serato will announce other hardware partners soon. First public
demonstrations of ITCH will be at Frankfurt Music Messe in March 2008.

Contact scott@serato.com for information about Serato ITCH.

www.serato.com/products/itch/

Check Out DJ tutor .com

2008-04-21T12:37:00.001Z

Free video DJ tutorials for the total beginner through to the semi pro DJ.
DJ Tutor has revolutionised DJ training, created a worldwide community of up and coming DJs, started the first ever ten minute mix video competition, and given the world a new motto:

Jonathan Lewis aka the DJ Tutor Brian S Redd

Practise and N Joy

Pacemaker - this is how it works

2008-04-21T12:29:00.001Z

The new pacemaker product has been causing a buzz! let us know what you think by commenting below.

Vestax and Serato have joined forces!

2008-04-21T12:25:00.001Z

VCI300 NEW THIS SUMMER FROM VESTAX

Vestax and Serato have joined forces.
Sharing their technology and compiled feedback from Pro DJ's and users from around the world, they have created a dedicated DJ USB MIDI / Audio system and software offering absolute control.

The VCI-300 is a dedicated USB MIDI controller for the included Serato DJ software. It also comes with a built in audio interface with standard 4in/4out and headphone connection, which means all you need for DJing is the VCI-300, a laptop and a set of headphones.

New features such as the [Emergency Thru Switch], which avoids the sound from stopping when the computer freezes, is an added feature from study of user feedback. Another is the new weight reduced JOG wheel and the adjustable JOG wheel torque mechanism to avoid vibration from low frequency feedback.

INTRODUCTION
Vestax and Serato have joined forces.
Sharing their technology and compiled feedback from Pro DJ's and users from around the world, they have created a dedicated DJ USB MIDI / Audio system and software offering absolute control.
The VCI-300 is a dedicated USB MIDI controller for the included Serato DJ software. It also comes with a built in audio interface with standard 4in/4out and headphone connection, which means all you need for DJing is the VCI-300, a laptop and a set of headphones.
New features such as the [Emergency Thru Switch], which avoids the sound from stopping when the computer freezes, is an added feature from study of user feedback. Another is the new weight reduced JOG wheel and the adjustable JOG wheel torque mechanism to avoid vibration from low frequency feedback.

FEATURES

->HIGH RESOLUTION CONTROL
The VCI-300 can control more than 90 parameters and functions of the included Serato software with high resolution MIDI signals sent via USB. The pulse resolution of the JOG wheel and pitch control fader is 4 times higher than the VCI-100 and provides precise control of each function. The pitch control fader also shares the same high quality fader parts of the input fader for advanced operability.
-> SUPERB AUDIO CHARACTERISTIC
The built-in audio interface carries a Audio Codec IC with superb audio characteristic, generated by a delta-sigma modulation 24 bit stereo D/A-A/D converter. Audio connection includes 1 stereo input, 1 MIC input and 2 stereo output (Master L/R, Monitor L/R).
-> LEVEL INDICATION
A 12 level LED L/R indicator is set in the center of the top panel to monitor sound levels.
-> FILE CONTROL
Audio files in the software library can be easily selected and controlled with the CRATES / FILES / BROWSE key and the cursor switch inherited from the VCM-100.
-> EMERGENCY THRU SWITCH
The Emergency Thru Switch located on the rear panel is a countermeasure feature to avoid sound from stopping when the computer freezes. It instantly switches the output source from the computer to other audio players connected to the VCI-300.
-> ADJUSTABLE JOG WHEEL TORQUE
The torque of each JOG wheel can be adjusted to prevent them from moving from low frequency feedback and altering the pitch when using the VCI-300 in such places like clubs.
-> FADER CURVE CONTROL
The fader curve of each fader can be adjusted to the preferred characteristics for long mixes, scratching and any other style.
>
Integrated software and hardware solution for a range of mixing styles from super-clubs to house parties.Perfect for digital music selectors, DJÕs, venues, radio stations and music lovers that want more control.
High performance portable music system that allows internal mixing and platter style playback control.
* Integrated "one to one" hardware to software mapping for instant control and minimum setup time.
* Interoperable with Scratch LIVE crates, loops and cue points, also support for iTunes.
* Audio processing and internal mixing via Serato ITCH software, Channel fading, EQ, cross fading and
track trim are processed in software with audio and headphone monitoring on the ITCH hardware.
* Clean and simple software user interface with emphasis on hardware controller to display information.
* Auto Tempo Matching and Beat Sync.
* Optimal Gain and BPM Calculation
* Serato's unique color waveforms for easy identification of sound.
* Set and store Cue-points.
* Manual and Auto Loop activation.
* Music Library management tools for backup and restore.
* Input and Mix recording capability.
* AIFF, WAV, MP3 and AAC audio file support
* Built-in multi-lingual help tools with Serato customer support and software update program

* Please note that release version may vary from screenshot pictured.

Building A Beginner Setup

2008-04-21T10:55:00.002Z

Check out this great article from DJ Hail and check out his 2nd hand DJ Gear on Ebay

DJ Hail on Ebay

After nearly 10 years of DJing and having heard just about every question there is about being one, I decided I would put together a brief beginner's guide to creating a setup for your new hobby. It can be expensive at first -- but if made wisely, these investments can last a long time.

First of all, you have to decide what kind of audio formats you want to use. If you already have a huge collection of vinyl records, it probably makes sense to go with a turntable setup. But if you have hundreds of CDs laying around, then having DJ-quality CD players would be the way to go. The whole "digital vs. analog" argument has been going on ever since CDs became the preferred industry standard in the late '80s, and it gets more complicated as the technology pushes these two formats beyond existing limits---Turntables can now be plugged into your computer and be used to play back digital files (Rane's "Serato", or "Final Scratch" by Stanton), or units like the Tascam TTM-1 can be fitted to a turntable and control a CD player.

To throw in my $0.02, vinyl is easier to control because it's more "tactile" that a CD, since your hands are literally 'connected' to the music. Both will degrade in similar manners; if treated properly, they could potentially last a lifetime. But most people treat their media like paperweights, so don't expect that rare CD or record to last more than 20 years. This is another reason why the digital-DJ phenomenon is quickly growing in popularity: You could bring your entire vinyl or CD collection with you on your laptop, rather than lugging hundreds of pounds worth of records to your show. Many people are now arguing that digital media sounds better to the human ear, but even this point is still debatable -- research shows that 7 out of 10 people can't tell the difference between a sound file recorded at 128 kilobytes-per-second versus one at 196 or greater, so it's a bit of a toss-up as far as overall sonic quality. I like to argue (bear with me) that since the mechanics of the human ear are essentially an analog-based system that closely resembles the same analog system of a needle and cartridge (remember the 'hammer, stirrup, and drum?') it sounds more "correct." Of course, digital technology is rapidly getting better, and I myself will likely make the leap to using a laptop to take to club, so be sure to make your decision wisely..... You just have to weigh the advantages (mobility) versus the disadvantages (reliability & cost).
Speaking of cost: To do this right, you're going to need the right gear. And this means spending money... a fair amount of it. As a beginner this may seem out of reach, but it really isn't. Beginners don't necessarily need the top-notch gear to do the job, and it certainly helps the pocketbook. The first thing you should do is find a buddy of yours that already has a DJ setup, and bug him/her incessantly until you convince them to let you try it out. Only after you put in a few hours of practice will you REALLY know whether or not you want to be a DJ --- I really can't stress this enough. You don't want to sell new equipment only months after buying it.
Once you've determined that this is definitely something you want to explore, start looking through classifieds (online and offline) for DJ gear (turntables, CD players, speakers, headphones, needles, etc.). The internet has drastically changed the way that second-hand equipment gets passed around: Ebay and Craigslist are two of the more complete national resources, and there are many others on a more local level.
Before you've narrowed down your search, you need to consider the initial costs. Do you want to spend a little bit at a time, or save up and then buy a complete setup? My recommendation would be the latter -- this is because it's very difficult to practice your skills as a DJ when you can't mix between two sound sources. I started out with just one turntable and a mixer, and while I was able to practice some scratches, I was still not able to practice my beat-matching, which is something you'll want to master right away.
So, this is what your setup should consist of at a minimum: Two turntables and/or CD players, both having some degree of control over the pitch (speed of the recording), a 2+ channel mixer (to mix the audio), an amplifier and a pair of speakers, headphones, and needles if you are using turntables. I'm going to refrain from making specific recommendations about which equipment is best, and since every DJ has a different style it's difficult to say which is better over the other. The real issue you should be paying attention to at first is cost . . . buying the "best" equipment for your style is something that will happen later on, once you've established yourself.

Look for other DJ guides from yours truly!!

Original:

Original Ebay Article!

Allen and Heath Sold To D M Holdings

2008-04-08T10:02:00.002Z

D&M HOLDINGS ACQUIRES ALLEN&HEATH
D&M
Holdings Inc. (TSE 1:6735) announced today the completion of the
acquisition of Allen & Heath Holdings Limited of Penryn, Cornwall,
England, a leading designer and manufacturer of audio mixing consoles
for professional sound engineers, live sound installations and DJs. The
acquisition will be accretive to earnings per share in FY2008.

“The acquisition of Allen & Heath is a strong complement to our
Calrec and D&M Pro brands,” said Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer Eric C. Evans. “This acquisition broadens our product offerings
to our longstanding DJ customer base and expands our business in the
professional market into installed live sound.”

Founded in 1969, Allen & Heath supplies digital and analog consoles
through a global sales force to a network of distributors in more than
80 countries. The company operates from its Cornwall England
manufacturing facility and has more than 150 employees in R&D,
sales, marketing, manufacturing and administrative functions. The
Company will continue to be led by Glenn Rogers and its current
management team.

Allen & Heath MD, Glenn Rogers

Recently,
Allen & Heath successfully launched iLive, a break through mixing
system that features an extremely flexible architecture with
distributed audio and control. The iLive system, developed specifically
for digital mixing of live sound, is used by bands, clubs and rental
companies around the world and has enjoyed immediate market success.
Allen & Heath will continue to expand their digital portfolio to
meet the growing demand for digital mixers.

“We’re adding another dimension to our position in the professional
audio marketplace with this acquisition,” said Evans. “Allen &
Heath is a strong brand in the professional live sound performance
market and well suited to benefit from the D&M business platform.
Like our other premium brands, Allen & Heath can continue to focus
on innovation while D&M provides expanded global market reach and
other support. We also see useful tie-ins with Calrec, our live-to-air
broadcast console brand, and Denon DJ.”

The terms of the transaction will not be disclosed.

New Products now in stock.

2008-01-08T12:18:00.000Z
Quality DJ is pleased to announce that the following new products are now in stock.

Pioneer - CDJ400
The latest in Pioneers ground breaking CDJ range.

Numark - IDJ2
Numarks compact digital DJ platform. Allows you to DJ from an iPOD or other USB mass storage device.

Please see our store page for more details.

Happy Christmas

2007-12-19T12:52:00.000Z
The staff here at Qualitydj.co.uk would like to wish all our customers a very Happy Christmas and Merry New Year.

We look forwards to serving you again in 2008.

Serato Scratch Live - Price Drop

2007-12-19T12:47:00.000Z
Attention consumers! Qualitydj.co.uk has reduced the price of the Serato Scratch Live from £438 to £349 with immediate effect.

Coming Soon DNHS5500

2007-12-10T12:10:00.000Z
The complete digital DJ solution, the DNHS5500 has it all! It has a familiar layout with all the features you would expect from a high-end CD player. It also has all of the features a digital DJ could hope for.

Some of the features include:

High Torque direct drive brushless platter with 33/45 rmp pitch adjust.

Large 3.8" display to keep track of some of the advanced features.

2 decks in 1 A single switch changes between 2 fully functioning players inside the one box. An improvement from the previous alpha track system.

The player can be used as a midi controller for DJ software.

Internal bay for 2.5" laptop HD

USB 2.0 port for attaching mass storage class devices either directly or through a hub.

Internal AISO sound card

Denons DJ Manager PC Software.

Christmas Demonstration Weekends

2007-12-06T14:28:00.000Z
For Immediate Release
4 December 2007

Christmas Demonstration Weekends For DJs At Quality D.J

Christmas comes early for all budding and professional D.J's at the UK's leading D.J equipment suppliers, Quality D.J and SI Sound and Light. For the next 3 weekends in the run-up to Christmas, you can visit their store in Edinburgh and enjoy some light refreshments, receive a personal demonstration of all the latest software, controllers and equipment along with some fantastic manufacturers goodies to take home with you. The demo weekends will be held on Saturday and Sunday for the whole day on these weekends.

For these special December events, Quality D.J have carefully selected the choice picks of the professional disc jockey audio and video market, creating an elite selection of products. Trading from their outlet in Tollcross in the west end of Edinburgh for over 30 years, SI Sound and Light have one of the UK's largest selection of D.J products available for review. You can even take your own headphones and music to try out the equipment in the store.

SI Sound and Light definitely go the extra the extra mile when it comes to customer service, not only can you try the latest and most innovative D.J products available on the market today in store. If you still have reservations as to whether the system you are interested in will perform as you want it to at your gigs, why not hire a full system from their extensive hire stock and try it before committing to buy it.

When you visit SI Sound and Light's Christmas demonstration weekends, you can get a V.I.P guided tour of such products as, the amazing Vestax VCI-100. The VCI-100 is a highly professional D.J MIDI Controller with a JOG wheel built with sensor and control technology from their turntables. Also featured is a variable curve generator that controls the crossfader curve from the hardware with original faders. The VCI-100 is built with high quality mechanical parts and a PCB designed for accurate and stable operation.

DJs can get up and running immediately with the included TRAKTOR LE from Native Instrument Inc., and Vestax has created exclusive control assignment files that provide seamless and intuitive control of the TRAKTOR LE software. The VCI-100 is compatible with all software that allows MIDI control assignment and is plug & play with Apple and Windows computers. You can get all these features and more at SI Sound and Light for only £349.00. Making it the must have for any amateur or professional D.J this Christmas.

Problems with Blog

2007-11-24T12:13:00.000Z
Problems with blogger have stopped me posting for a while. These are hopefully fixed now. New site features coming very soon watch this spece !

DJM700 In Stock now

2007-11-06T12:08:00.001Z
The latest mixer from pioneer with effects and Midi onboard!

(PRODUCT=76)

QDJ TV?

2007-10-13T15:38:00.001Z

Behringer news! Good and Bad.

2007-10-13T14:33:00.001Z

The DDM4000 is not due into stock until December at the earliest and may be delayed until January!
(PRODUCT=195)

BEHRINGER and Infinium Partner up on Patented DJ Fader Technology

PLASA London, 9 September 2007, BEHRINGER and Infinium Technologies
have signed a deal to use Infinium’s patented contact-free fader
technology in future BEHRINGER DJ products.

Infinium and BEHRINGER have been co-developing a new 45mm
optical and contact-free fader which meets the highest demands in terms
of quality, feel and especially longevity. The new fader will be used
in a series of state-of-the-art BEHRINGER DJ mixers scheduled for
release in the first quarter of 2008.

Uli Behringer, Chairman and R&D Director commented, “We
are very excited to cooperate with Infinium, as we believe we have
found the perfect technology to match our new high-end DJ mixers. A
‘wear and tear-free’ fader is crucial for DJs and adds tremendous value
to our products.”

René Moolenaar, Business Development Director of Infinium
Technologies noted, “This partnership is another important milestone in
the company’s history, proving that our technology can stretch from
high-end to mass market applications. Infinium is delighted to work
with BEHRINGER on this prestigious project, because we are impressed
with their ability to bring high-quality products to market at
reasonable prices. We believe that BEHRINGER’s DJ products are leading
the field and we’re excited to be part of their new DJ roadmap.”

About Infinium

Infinium Technologies draws much of its expertise from its
parent company CLIFFGROUP, the respected international engineering
company. Launched in 2003, the company spent three years developing and
patenting the core technology which lead to the launch of a range of
linear faders in 2006. For more information, visit www.infinium-tech.com

New Headphones and Headphone price drops!

2007-10-13T14:16:00.001Z
New to qualitydj a range of Technics headphones

(PRODUCT=250)

now compliments the Sennheiser and Sony cans already listed on the site. In addition to these additions the new versions of Sennheisers

(PRODUCT=239)
are now in stock aswell as pricedrops on the Sonys!

(PRODUCT=51)

IDJ Finally arrived!

2007-10-11T09:43:00.001Z

The long awaited IDJ2 is finally in stock. A limited shipment has come in and you have probably all heard about it from every retailer in the country who now has some stock!

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IDJ2 Due in later this week

2007-10-08T19:24:00.001Z

(PRODUCT=90)
Fingers crossed this week might finally see the idj2 in store!

It holds the record as the longest awaited item on qualitydj!

When we do our own top100 it might feature for all the wrong reasons.

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SVM1000 4-Channel Audio and Video Mixer

2007-10-08T18:32:00.001Z

New product coming soon from Pioneer!

We will update a full product listing in the next few days.

In Brief:

Video / Audio mixer with touch screen control. Designed for use alongside the DVJ1000's!

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Scratch LIVE Version 1.7.4 Released!

2007-10-08T18:27:00.001Z

Scratch LIVE 1.7.4

The main focus of Scratch LIVE 1.7.4 is vastly improved sound quality.
There is a new "Hi-Fi" resampler mode that uses an advanced modeling
algorithm to produce a level of clarity not heard before in vinyl
emulation technology. The new "hi-fi" option has cleaner, crisper sound
that effects all audio playback at non-zero pitch, but really comes
into its own when scratching.

We've also addressed some of the bugs that may affect sound quality, making 1.7.4 the best sounding Scratch LIVE version ever.

1.7.4 has even more improvements to the vinyl tracking, so you can get
a little more out of those old beat up control records, and people with
multi-core computers will notice a huge increase in speed when building
overviews.

We recommend this update for all users.

(PRODUCT=122)

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Quality DJ Price Check

2007-09-27T21:32:00.001Z

Quality DJ has announced a new pricematch functionality.
Phone the Edinburgh showroom with details of what price you have found and we will match it

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New Sennheiser HD25's Very sexy!

2007-09-26T23:42:00.001Z

Like Shure replacing the SM58 what can Sennheiser improve about the HD25?

The main selling point is the different lead options with a 1.5 and 2.0m straight cable and a 3.0m curly cable.

NB: Stop the press these come with your very own HD25 MkII Bag!

General Description
The
closed-back HD 25-1 IIs are purpose-designed, professional monitoring
headphones offering high attenuation of background noise. Capable of
handling very high sound pressure levels and of extremely robust
construction, these headphones perform exceptionally well in high-noise
environments, e.g. ENG, sound reinforcement, studio monitoring and
audio equipment testing. The capsule is rotatable for one-ear
listening. Ideal monitoring headphones for cameramen and DJs.
Features
Very lightweight and comfortable, even if used for long periods
High maximum sound pressure level
65 .nominal impedance for universal compatibility
Tough, detachable steel cable
Neodymium ferrous magnet systems and lightweight aluminium/copper voice
Delivery Includes
1 HD 25-1 II
1 Bag
Soft ear pads (1 pair)
1 adaptor to ¼” (6.3 mm) stereo jack plug

(PRODUCTID=239)

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New Additions to the Pro Hire Stock at Quality DJ

2007-09-25T19:47:00.001Z

Two new major additions to the DJ Equipment hire stock this week at S I Sound and Light. These mixers feature on many riders of touring DJ's visiting Scotland's clubs and hence are in heavy demand from the local promoters. These items will be also be on demo at the Quality DJ showroom in Edinburgh.

The Pioneer DJM909 brought pioneer in to the world of turntablisim / battle are of the wider DJ Market and when released and ticked all the boxes on fitting into this area and many more with the on-board effects section with it's touch screen control.

Serato scratch has revolutionised the use of digital media in the dj booth and the Rane 57SL mixer brings the quality of rane turntablist mixers together with the leading digital vinyl device.

Both items will complement the professional DJ Equipment hire stock at SI Sound and Light the parent company of QualityDJ.

The current pro DJ Equipment hire stock already boasts a wide range of equipment to meet the requirements of the professional DJ including CDJ1000 mkIII's, Technics 1210's, DJM600, Allen and Heath 6:2 and 3D, DVJ1000, Edirol V4 Video mixer and much much more.

Hire equipment is displayed on our S I Sound and Light main site see below.

See the hire equipment deals here!

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Numark IDJ 2 On the Water

2007-09-22T23:03:00.001Z

(PRODUCT=90)
Revised date for shipping of the IDJ2 is mid October!

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Vestax VCM-100 Compact Class

2007-09-21T23:27:00.001Z

See the full Article on DJ MAG

Words: Marc '01'

Sit your laptop on the optional stand.

Remove the stand to make it ultra compact.

Connections for USB and dual stereo in and out.

The VCM-100 is the next DJ controller due to arrive this autumn from Vestax. It comes with the same classy looks as the VCI-100, but in a more compact shell. It’s fitted with the same illuminated soft-touch buttons and silver dials, but the jog wheels are gone from the setup. This means that, unless you use the auto sync feature, the only controls available for beat matching are the transport buttons and the pitch sliders.. The crossfader sits in the middle of the deck, flanked by a pair of space-saving, Ney York-style rotary volume dials. There’s plenty more knobs and buttons with dedicated functions including three-band EQ, looping and track loading.
A major attraction of the VCM-100 is the built in USB soundcard, making it a one stop shop for laptop jocks. It’s pure plug and play convenience on the Mac, and comes with lightning fast Asio drivers for PC users. It provides four mono inputs and four outs, grouped into stereo pairs - one set for the main mix and the other for booth monitoring. On top of this the VCM-100 has a dedicated headphone output located at the front right corner of the unit, making it a complete mixing solution.
Software DJs can jump straight into the mix with the included copy of Native Instruments’ Traktor LE. All the Midi functions are pre-mapped and ready to go out of the box. The simplicity of the VCM-100 means it can be used with any Midi software that features Midi learn or user assignable mapping.
The laptop stand is an optional accessory, and serves a dual purpose. It not only positions the computer for optimum ergonomics but also helps keep it cool with maximum airflow to the underside via the vents punched into the frame.
In other news, Vestax have just announced a price drop on its sibling, the VCI-100 Midi controller, bringing it down to a tidy £359. There’s also savings to be made with the eminently versatile CDR-07 CD deck which can now be picked up for £629, bargain!
Specs
Price: £359
Released: October

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Denon Build some new BUZZ DH-HS5500 and DN-HC4500

2007-09-20T20:41:00.000Z

The buzz seems to be building after a DJ Expo in the US where Denon gave a glimpse of whats to come!
They displayed a prototype of a new tabletop product an DN-HS5500. Specs given here are in no wayt confirmed just a summary of all the information that I could find out there!:

All buttons and function from DNS-3500 seem to be in a similar layout. One obvious difference is it seems to have : PC, Midi and Device selection suggesting it's functionality a little similar to the Numark ICDX allowing it to be either a Controller, Media player or MIDI device. This however seems strange as the unit below has multiple simultaneous functionality?

* There is no drive unit in this deck
* Spinning platter like the DN-S3500
* Playing an Alpha track is not possible

The DN-HC4500 was also shown this is a product sitting in between the Denon HD2500 and the DND4500 allowing Midi control over USB and simultaneously control a 4500 drawer unit.

This player unlike the DH-HS5500 has made it onto the denonpro site: here

Thanks to:

www.denondjforums.com
www.djresource.eu
www.futuremusic.com

Allen and Heath Product updates

2007-09-20T18:21:00.001Z

(PRODUCT=181)

Those of you waiting for the Allen and Heath may need to wait a little bit longer. The software completion has been delayed and this product is now due to start production in October. So I guess it wont be on the shelves until Mid October. Watch this space for Updates.
(PRODUCT=234)
The Xone:42 unveiled at PLASA is also due in during October and should be on the shelves by the end of that month!

PLASA - where are all the DJ's

2007-09-20T17:49:00.001Z

Plasa 07 was a very different show this year. I have been making the journey to Earls court for many years and over the last few years the show has had to change to evolve with the industry that funds it. DJ Equipment is one of a long list of sectors within the realms covered by plasa it is one tick box on your registration form which tries to benchmark and your buying intentions. The name PLASA comes from the Professional Lighting and Sound Association. The tagline of the body is that it serves members within the entertainment, event, communication and architectural industries. DJ Equipment fits into the entertainment tag but in terms of the installers only as a small part of this sector. The problem with DJ's and DJ equipment at a trade show is that it is not a trade product in the way that much of the technology at Plasa is. Plasa is increasinly attended by specifiers, consultants, integrators and over the last couple of years an increasing number of DJ's. You can imagine the chat at the coffee bar between a lighting specifer and a bedroom DJ and hence the networking side of a trade show falls to bits.

DJ Equipment it could be argued is a sub-sector of consumer electronics which is over whelmed with showing oppertunities the flagship being the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) show in Las Vegas. This is the one you see on the show each year with Bill gates and Larry Page sharing the stage with apple's latest gadget. The problem with us dj's is that we don't want to be seen as consumers we quite liked the way that we sneaked into a trade show. Consumer shows are full of geeks who like computers and gadgets not artists who like computers and gadgets.

The other Trade shows around the world have grown in strength over the last few years NAMM in the US and Musikmesse in Frankfurt both began to take the product lanches away from PLASA (Traditionally the show to be at). PLASA tried over the 04/05/06 shows to police the different requirements between the elder statesmen of the show and the out of control DJ stands who always played there music to loud and never closed the door. DJ Sunday was introduced quite informally at first and then it was encouraged. By the time DJ Sunday arrived at the 06 show many "Trade" showgoers were avoiding the Sunday and not attending until during the week so that they could get to speak to the people they needed to. The DJ's had competitions to go to seminars to see and a great deal of celebrities and girls goody-bags to fawn over. The problem for the manufacturers and the dj's is that the show was still a consumer show within a much bigger trade show. Trade shows cost lots of money for the exhibitors and Plasa a 4 day show in central London is no exception. For the DJ manufacturers a 4 day show with DJ's only there for one day (in any force) does not really make sense. For the DJ's aswell one mad day with everyone climbing over everyone else to try and get a look at the latest bit of kit cannot make much sense.

This year 's BPM show should give the manufacturers and DJ's more of what they are looking for. The wide scope of the show but focussed within the DJ Equipment industry will make the show much more of a event that DJ's can make an essential part of there diary in order to improve there business.

DJ Equipment will always be on show at PLASA as many of the manufacturers product ranges cover various sectors of the industry. The likes of Allen and Heath who have Installation Mixers, DJ Mixers and Pro Audio mIxers will always have new products to show at a hopefully reinvented PLASA Show. With my intergrator, specifyer hat on at the show I must say that lots of small things made this a nicer show and allowed us all to do a lot of good business at the show which is at the end of the day the point of a trade show. Hopefully the BPM show will be a sucess for the DJ Equipment sector and provide a real showcase for our small niche.

DJ TOP 100!

2007-09-19T17:57:00.001Z

Vote now for your top DJ's! While you still can six days remain to add your voice to the number one poll!

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BPM The New PLASA for DJ's ?

2007-09-18T20:01:00.001Z

Plasa this year was somewhat of a DJ Free zone but don't panic!

The 10th and 11th will see the inaugural staging of BPM a new event aimed at all types of DJ's.

Loads of the major manufacturers have now signed up for the show and will be exibihiting all there known and new equipment aswell as supporting a full program of seminars covering all aspects of the modern business of DJing.

The seminars and exhibitors will cover all areas of the business including equipment, insurance and marketing.

Tickets can be found from Edinburgh to East midlands:

BMI Baby

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New Mobile Disco Department opens at Qualitydj

2007-09-12T18:39:00.003Z

Quality Dj Opened a New section This month online and Instore! The new Dedicated specialised Mobile DJ Section is focussed at the Mobile DJ on the road. From small one man show to full road show SI Sound and Light have been supplying the mobile disco market for over 20 years.

The new section dedicated to Mobile DJ's features new products from the KAM range along with a number of products from our DJ equipment ranges of Numark and Denon.

The staff on the phone in the edinburgh disco centre will be happy to discuss larger rigs in person or over the phone.

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Plasa Preliminary Report 2007

2007-09-12T18:39:00.001Z

Last day of the Plasa 07 show today and we have been on show checking out all the latest products!

DJM700 Started off the week although Pioneer were not at the show The launch of the DJM 700 took place in The Mos on Sunday night. The DJM700 is a new addition to the range sitting between the 600 and 800 but with technology nd legacy oif the 800 and 1000 products. With no firm date on actual UK Street release those of you who are interested will have to wait a bit longer!

The Vestax 580 should prove stiff competition for the DJM 800 level mixer with flexible midi controls and Vestax sound quality going for it. We should have it at the start of October when the first shipment comes into stock.

The long awaited Numark IDJ2 is now on sale in the US and was on show (again) at Plasa this year! The first UK batch are on the water and due in shortly.
(PRODUCT=90)

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Coming Soon DJM 700

2007-09-08T14:30:00.001Z

The Quality DJ Team will be at PLASA for the next few days checking out all the latest new products from all the top manufacturers.

Tommorow night the MoS hosts the Pioneer DJM700 Launch party and we will be there checking it out!

Look out for some post Plasa reviews detailing our findings of the latest from the UK's top Show.

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August Sales Coming to an End! Roll on September Sales!

2007-08-30T10:27:00.001Z

The End of the month is coming on fast and some of our promotions will be changing on the first of September.

Our VCI-100 promotion has come to an end and the Special price of £349 is no more all our sale stock has been sold and replacement new stocks are at £399.

Come back on the 1st to check out our latest offers!

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Broken!!

2007-08-21T10:46:00.001Z

After a frantic flurry of activity yesterday the problem with Quality DJ has been repaired and it is now back up online!

This was caused by some server side software being update (Mysql)

and is now resolved thanks for those of you who let us know!

NB: Last few VCI-100's remaining at £349 summer sale price!

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Shure back by popular demand M44-7 TURNTABLIST

2007-06-29T16:09:00.001Z

(PRODUCT=209)
The classic Shure M44-7 TURNTABLIST is back on the shelves following demands by our customers.

Shure are famous for microphones but there Audiophile Phonograph Cartridges are now known throughout the world and the technics and expertise have created the range of DJ cartridges of which the M44-7 is the standard workhorse.

Some interesting dates:

1946
Shure Brothers Company becomes Shure Brothers Incorporated.
1948

First phonograph cartridge capable of playing both long-playing (LP) and 78 rpm (revolutions per minute) records.
1954

M12 Dynetic Phono Reproducer is a tone arm/phono cartridge
combination that set a new industry standard with its tracking force of
only one gram.
1958

M3D Phonograph Cartridge is the world’s first cartridge to successfully meet performance requirements of stereo recording.
1964

Shure V-15 Stereo Dynetic Cartridge is one of the finest phonograph
cartridges ever made.  It featured a 15-degree vertical tracking angle
and a symmetrical, bi-radial elliptical stylus.
1966

V15 Type II, the first computer-designed phono cartridge, features superior tracking ability.

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BCD3000 Windows XP Driver setup

2007-06-27T11:18:00.000Z
Video post showing the windows setup of the BCD3000 Midi controller and Audio drivers!

Download BCD3000 Windows Drivers

Numark Total Control

2007-06-26T09:03:00.001Z

(PRODUCT=185)

Numark totalk control final pricing changed!

The final pricing is much cheaper than initial indications bringing it inline with the behringer BCD3000

for the bargin price of £175

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BCD3000 and Total Control !

2007-06-21T11:34:00.001Z

The BCD 3000 and the Numark Total control have arrived.

The first stock came in yesterday and our pre-orders have now all been fulfilled!

(PRODUCT=194)

Both units will have full revies in the blog next week.

(PRODUCT=185)

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BCD 3000 In Stock - Spin my Knobs

2007-06-12T14:58:00.001Z

The BCD 3000 is due into stock at the end of this week with

the first units shipping at the beginning of this week.

All pre-orders will be filled with a number of units going into

new sales stock!

This is the long awaited revision to the BCD2000 from behringer the BCD3000 adds MAC compatibility and comes loaded with the TRAKTOR 3 LE. This software can be upgraded for a special price to the full Traktor 3.

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DJX400 Discontinued

2007-05-03T15:08:00.001Z

Just a bit of information on the popular DJX 400 Mixer from behringer.

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This mixer has been discontinued so the last stock will be the last!

However we are expecting more stock of the DJX700 in the next week:

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PMC280 Due in Tuesday

2007-05-02T12:25:00.001Z

(PRODUCT=199)

Vestax PMC280 due into stock on after the bank Holiday 7th of May.

DNHD2500 Mac support

2007-04-28T20:44:00.000Z
Just a quick confirmation note that the playlist creation / tag editor / database creation software is in fact PC only and if DJ mag are correct:

"there are no plans for a MAC version"

This is a shame as (in my opinion) the best dj manufacturer in terms of sturdy quality build has decided not to support a huge portion the dj community who chose to use MACs!

Modular Midi anyone?

2007-04-25T08:09:00.001Z

It was just the other day we were taking in the office here and I said wouldn't it be a great product a single midi crossfader to use with a number of softwares or as an addition to a DAC3.

Low and behold what arrives in my inbox (not quite the same but anlong the right lines) a modular midi box that allows you to configure your midi actuators in a custom alignment that suits you.

Only got a dodgy pic for the moment and I think the pricing is a quite high but understandable given the amount of connectors that must be used to make it!

They should have called it the Midi Jigsaw or something!

Let us know what you think? my quick calculations mean that a fully loaded 16 module box as above would set you back around £1500.00 (Ouch)

Having said that you are getting a completely custom midi unit with all the bits where you want them!

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Behringer New Digital mixer on the way!

2007-04-24T08:11:00.001Z

(PRODUCT=195)

Behringer will be releasing their new Behringer 32 bit digital mixer.

"The
DDM4000 is a state-of-the-art 32-bit digital DJ mixer, jam-packed with
creative tools, yet its intuitive layout will let you feel at home in
an instant. Editing, storing and recalling your settings is simply a
breeze! "

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Phonic Powered speaker deal!

2007-04-24T08:09:00.001Z

Limited deals on Phonic powered speakers.

Pair of 12" 400w powered Bi-Amp speakers only £450

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New Behringer Kit Coming Soon

2007-04-24T07:23:00.001Z

Quality DJ have agreed terms of supply with Behringer GmbH which means we will be expanding our range of Beringer products available. In addition to the DJX 400 we will be able to supply the DJX700 at a competitive price.

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The first delivery will also include the improved BCD3000 Midi controller which runs on Mac and Windows and the V-control sound cards.

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Price Drops and New Kits

2007-04-23T22:11:00.001Z

Numark NUVJ £299 Introductory price only!
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Denon DND4500 Drops to £499
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New Denon kits introduced
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Numark NUVJ hits the market!

2007-04-18T21:36:00.001Z

(PRODUCT=91)

Just had the new NUVJ software and hardware from Numark / Arkaos!

I have had a quick play with it at the shows but as normal when you plug it and install for the first time on your own computer it's the first real test.

Hardware:

The unit runs using the power supply from the usb and has the same sort of feeling as the new VCI-100 from vestax (shame you it doesn't double as a straight MIDI controller). The build of the unit should give us some idea of what to expect from the Numark Total Control (which is Due in June at an expected retail of around £250); the box is plastic and feels similar to the BCD-2000 from behringer the general feel is solid enough with the faders and buttons all feeling good.

The Install is straight forward the unit when plugged in shows up as a number of devices USB Audio Device.The unit runs on PC and MAC.

The unit powers up on connection and fully lights up on completion of the installation the unit comes with a number of Video Loops. The Effects on the unit are varied and flexible and this would make a good source material for any video jock or a simple all in one unit for a beginner.

Numark have launched a dedicated site for VJ's www.nuvj.com.

Download demo software here

Sorry! Back to normal at Qualitydj

2007-04-18T14:05:00.001Z

A minor bug in the checkout system has affected customers trying to purchase from Quality DJ in the last few days effectively not allowing you to checkout.

This has been due to an error created while testing a new flashier, easier to use checkout which will be unleashed shortly.

In the meantime the error has been fixed and customers can checkout as normal.

DJ Tuition at Recess - Glasgow

2007-04-16T00:01:00.001Z

Just announced the DJ behing DJing for Dummies is going to provide lessons:

How it'll work

Ok, there's a few ways this'll work.

I come to you - using your equipment - and teach you wherever you want on whatever you have
You come to me - and using my Pioneer DJM600, 2x CDJ1000 MkIII's and 2 x Technics 1210's - I'll teach you here.
I come to you with my Pioneer DJM600 and 2xCDJ 1000MkIII's and Roland powered speakers to teach you. (Turntables will be an extra charge due to the hassle).
Click here for more info

Still waiting for drivers!

2007-04-14T14:15:00.000Z

Drivers are the most common question we get about USB products and with so many products coming with some level of digital connectivity now the questions come thick and fast. The main question up until recently has been MAC OS compatibility but with the recent lauch of the much hyped vista OS from Microsoft I have started to do some investigation to find out just how prepared or unprepared the DJ Equipment manufacturers are for Vista compatibility.

lets start with Allen and Heath my favourite manufacturer always up to speed with the technology but as far as I know they still do not have dedicated vista drivers for the XONE:3D , 2D,1D family. The latest set of drivers do not work for Vista!
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Behringers BCD 2000 and 3000 don't show much promise in this area given the huge amount of criticism taken by Behringer over the issues with the compatibility on the BCD2000.(A driver was written by a clever hacker who packet sniffed the USB data to come up with a solution). Behringer have just released the BCD3000 which is a very similar product but has a different colout and now finally full MAC OS support. There is no mention of Vista compatibility and I suspect we may be at the will of the hackers to provide a solution on this one if we want to use in the near future.
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The Vestax VCI-100 has been a long time coming and has from the outset promised full MAC OS Compatibility however no talk os Vista Drivers !(spot the common theme!)
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The only Controller I have found that has Vista drivers as standard is the Hercules MK2.

One thing to note is also that the MI Industry seems to be a bit ahead of the traditional DJ Equipment manufacturers as ever with the likes of Roland and Edirol announcing upgrades to many of there products including the UA-1EX.
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I have sent of some questions to a number of the manufacturers asking questions on ETA's for new drivers and will post any news as I get it.

EVO 5 From Ecler Digital install mixer

2007-04-13T23:01:00.001Z

Ecler's new EVO5
6 stereo channel
FireWire soundcard at 24bit/96kHz,
unlimited MIDI control
fully
editable FX processor with a superior full colour TFT
The latest mixer from Ecler is not due out until this October but looks sweet as.Loads of options for midi and I/O I will hopefully be getting my hands on one before October to give a full review

Ortofon new Carts for the Digital Era

2007-04-13T22:52:00.001Z

Cartridge kings Ortofon keep up their program of vinyl preservation with two new carts due out in June. The white Activ cart has been designed for vinyl ripping specifically in mind.

The other new cart will be the replacement Nightlclub II cart with eliptical. Best of all it has a pint job that looks more at home in the Fast and the Furious!

VCI 100 first impressions

2007-04-13T22:42:00.001Z

(PRODUCT=184)

Had a chance to hook up VCI 100 to my laptop for the first time tonight! Not to much detail to report yet (not enough setup time). However it is not dissapointing so far. The unit has a very solid build and I had no problems connecting to my laptop(PC). The lights on the unit are very funky! and the variety of sensors seem at first to be quite flexible. I have started mapping to Numark Cue and will have a play with some other software in the next few days! More posts and info to follow!

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Quality DJ Ebay Store

2007-04-10T12:56:00.001Z

Following loads of requests for trade-in's and 2nd hand sales we have decided to address this by running a quality dj approved system using an Ebay Store.Products in the store will include a limited 2nd hand guarantee from Quality DJ and will be given a detailed exam by one of our engineers before posting so that potential buyers will know exactly what they are bidding for.

Watch this space for more info and the first products going on during next week.

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VCI 100 DUE IN THURSDAY!

2007-04-10T12:51:00.001Z

VCI-100 Due into stock this coming thursday. I will ve you a report asap!

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Xone 1D Midi Controller

2007-04-04T22:18:00.001Z

Before we have seen any sign of the Xone 2D the Xone 1D is announced. This will be a stand alone midi controller with midi and power via USB with no sound card and retailing for around £200.

Read the flashy article on www.xone.co.uk

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My Old Article on Xone 2D

Allen & Heath's Andy Rigby-Jones demonstrates the Xone 2D....

Allen Heath Xone 2D

Numark Cue and Virtual vinyl now on MAC

2007-04-04T21:50:00.001Z

(PRODUCT=125)

Numark have finally released MAC OS versions of their popular DJ control softwares.

More info on :
    

Decks in the Desert Extreme review

2007-04-04T21:32:00.001Z

I cant claim that all our reviewing takes the equipment to these extremes!

Full Article

See the full product spec here :(PRODUCT=58)

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THE SUGARHILL GANG - In Edinburgh

2007-04-04T20:50:00.001Z

WONDER MIKE AND MASTER G - ORIGINAL MEMBERS OF THE SUGARHILL GANG
Live in Edinburgh tonight at Cab Vol! £16
Wednesday, 4th of April 2007 at 19:00
Another great gig from the team at the Cab!
See you there!

Legendary Bozak brand relaunched

2007-04-03T20:43:00.001Z

Paridise garage - June 2001

Larry Levan in the paradise Garage the Larry Legend!

Larry levan for those that don't know is a mythical figure in DJ history.

In the paradise Garage in 1979/80 Larry Levan ran the show and he ran it of a Bozak mixer!

In the early days of the club DJ and early days of the DJ Equipment industry this was the first commercially produced dj mixer on the market.The brand has been revived by a new company and new products are due on the market this year.

I will be listening out for these mixers which are reputed to recapture the original warm sound of the originals which was subsequently followed by the likes of Rane, Urei and Formula Sound.

bozak

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Edinburgh Urban Club Promotions

2007-04-03T20:32:00.001Z

I spoke to DJ Fabuloz today and he is making final arrangements for their electric night this Easter bank Holiday.

Quality DJ is supporting EUCP in this new night at Ponana.

This is the first major event Fabuloz has run for some time and we hope the night goes down a storm!

See the links below for more info on the night.

EUCP

DJ Fabuloz

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Denon DN HD2500 First Use!

2007-04-03T14:22:00.000Z
This is another test post on the new site blogger !

Today we recieved our first batch of the new Denon DN-HD2500 Media Player!

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this has been a long time coming and loads of interested emails asking us for information on the new unit.

I can report that it all seems very nice. Usual Denon very sturdy build and sturdy looking software. I have had a chance to try using it direct from the internal hard disc , from a memory stick and tommorow I will have a try of it connected up to a DND 4000.

I have taken a small video to show the general functionality of the scratch and effect functions.

The Denon unit comes with some software which I will take a look at tonight!

New Really Loud Headphones From Allen and Heath

2007-04-03T10:17:00.001Z

From the people that brought you the xone mixers with a volume control that goes up to eleven come's there first pair of DJ headphones.

They look very similar to the Sony style to me and for me got similar reports from the recen Franfurt show. I have not heard them yet aas i did not make it to franfurt this year.
DJ Mag's opinion

" Just clear fucking loud music."

I look forward to trying them out but knowing the quality of all the gear from Allen and Heath they will certainly be worth a look.

Due out in May with a street price of around £100

General Description
The closed-back HD 25-1 IIs are purpose-designed, professional monitoring headphones offering high attenuation of background noise. Capable of handling very high sound pressure levels and of extremely robust construction, these headphones perform exceptionally well in high-noise environments, e.g. ENG, sound reinforcement, studio monitoring and audio equipment testing. The capsule is rotatable for one-ear listening. Ideal monitoring headphones for cameramen and DJs.
Features
	Very lightweight and comfortable, even if used for long periods
	High maximum sound pressure level
	65 .nominal impedance for universal compatibility
	Tough, detachable steel cable
	Neodymium ferrous magnet systems and lightweight aluminium/copper voice
Delivery Includes
	1 HD 25-1 II
	1 Bag
	Soft ear pads (1 pair)
	1 adaptor to ¼” (6.3 mm) stereo jack plug