Archive for the 'Equipment' Category
Fader maintenance
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Qbert demonstrates how to lube your cross fader. I have used WD-40 in the past, that might be bad - I dunno - it did the job on my Technics SH-EX 1200 and Rane TTM-56! It is definately worth doing to get that extra bit of speed and smoothness.
For Rane TTM-56/57 users there is a nice little tutorial on skratchworx about maintaining (and modding) a Rane TTM 56 fader which you should be able to gain something from even if you dont have the Rane. For Vestax users there is a thread on djforums with a detailed tutorial as well.
Numark Virtual Vinyl
Numark have announced the release of Virtual Vinyl, utilizing their established software - Cue. The Virtual Vinyl package includes Cue as well as the hardware interface and control vinyl to allow turntablists to scratch and mix digital audio and video files. Alongside other packages like Serato Scratch Live by Rane and Final Scratch by Stanton (and more recently Traktor Scratch) there is now a fair range to choose from in the digital vinyl arena. Not to mention the CD/MP3/HD decks that are around these days, the choice of path to take gets harder. We will be looking at all the available options in a bit more detail in the future.
The Numark press release follows. For more info see the Numark Website.
NUMARK INTRODUCES VIRTUAL VINYL DJ HARDWARE/SOFTWARE & USB AUDIO INTERFACE
Scratch and mix digital audio and video files interchangeably, with any turntable or CD player
Cumberland, RI – January 1, 2007. Numark, the world’s leading brand of professional DJ equipment and the driving force behind the High-Tech musical revolution, is proud to announce their innovative USB audio interface and DJ hardware and software package: Virtual Vinyl.
Virtual Vinyl is a reliable DJ hardware and software solution that gives DJs the power and command to scratch, mix and sample digital audio and video files using any turntable or CD player (sold separately). Using the included control vinyl and CDs, Virtual Vinyl’s performance features include: master tempo, seamless looping, instant pitch-matching, automatic beat-matching, BPM-aware effects, hot-cues, sampling, and more.
The Virtual Vinyl package is driven by Numark’s CUE software, which ensures seamless integration with your computer. CUE features two independent, zero-latency virtual decks, easily controlled by two traditional 12-inch control records, which are included. CUE has been rigorously club-tested and designed to work simply and glitch-free, to avoid computer crashes in the middle of an important mix. This reliability is no surprise, considering Numark’s renowned, DJ-centric approach and reputation.
Virtual Vinyl supports a variety of digital audio files including; MP3, MP3Pro, WAV, AIFF, direct CD, WMA, Ogg Vorbis, MP4 and iTunes ACC (non-DRM). Virtual Vinyl is also compatible with music subscription services such as Yahoo! Music Unlimited, Virgin Music, Napster Music, and others.
In addition to its reliable audio capabilities, Virtual Vinyl gives access to a whole new world of video mixing possibilities. Turntablists can now scratch, beat juggle and mix their favorite videos directly from their turntables. Virtual Vinyl’s video output can be displayed on any video monitor, projector or computer display with ease. Virtual Vinyl is equipped to play DVD, WMV, WAV, DIVX, MPG, AVI, and Karaoke (CD+G) files.
With Virtual Vinyl’s “Rhythm Window,” you can see you music as a visual waveform, for 100% mixing accuracy. You can also create beat-matched samples and loops on the spot, and beat-lock your samples so that they trigger automatically and play on-beat. Loops can be made from 1/8th note to 16 bars, using the SmartLoops feature.
Virtual Vinyl is also easily expandable, and will grow with you as your set-up and DJ needs change. Featuring four distinct “skins” (visual interfaces) you can have your laptop interface screen customized for audio-only, video-centric or somewhere in-between. The included Virtual Vinyl Audio I/O box allows you to input any number of additional hardware controllers and devices.
Once your final mix is complete, use Virtual Vinyl’s built-in broadcast functionality to gain a worldwide audience on the web via podcasting, or export your mixes to MP3. Virtual Vinyl’s flexible output options (including compatibility with a multi-channel ASIO sound card or a USB mixer) will suit any situation that may arise.
Numark CEO, John E. “Jack” O’Donnell says, “With Virtual Vinyl, Numark remains ahead of the curve. We have found a way to integrate all of the elements that today’s DJ needs into one simple, dependable hardware and software package. Driving DJ innovation is Numark’s mission in the high-tech musical revolution, and that’s what Virtual Vinyl is all about.”
Comments(2)The Scratchophone
I ran across this very interesting turntable hybrid in a Google Video search for turntablism. It appears to be a turntable, mixer and bongo drum all in one! Check it out at the scratchophone website. This concept is absolutlely off the hook!!! I can see some real potential in this instrument. Very nice job on thinking of an awesome concept and turning it into a reality! Keep up the good work - stick at it. This hybrid really takes the ‘turntable as a musical instrument‘ movement to the next level!
The scratchophone @ scratchophonics
Two faders up. T T.
I have a few questions for the creators of this ingenious invention:
1. How does the tone arm stay in place without skipping or damaging the record?
2. Exactly what type of fader are you using?
3. How do I get my hands on one to test it out? Where are you based?
Vestax QFO Turntable/Mixer
This project started from a suggestion by Q-BERT, asking for a new instrument for the turntablists of the next generation. To let them mix and scratch like playing a guitar and to spread out the fun to kids.The process of making a new instrument is a simple repeat of creation and destruction. Handmade proto types were made in 4 generations up to No.8, and with Q-BERT testing it for a year and a half, while checking the best position for each knob and feature. Tests for the 180 degrees pitch control, dynamic straight-arm, cross fader were run over and over. When all the problems were solved, the birth of QFO.THE LOW DOWN
The A.S.T.S. arm is known for it’s abilities of not skipping and has now evolved with applying the newly developed Dynamic Tone Arm system that resists skipping at any angle. Original high torque motor as used in the PDX-2000 with great stability and reliability, and a high-grade digital servo that controls the motor in perfectly.
The same Circuitry from the PMC-05Pro series is used in the mixer of QFO. RIAA, amp specialty, VCA control and curve control are all at the highest level of its technology.
Dual PLAY/STOP, QUARTZ LOCK and REVERSE controls lay out on each side of the cross fader to allow DJs the choice of their scratch hands and speedy access. The layout was also designed on a concept of how many features can be controlled at one time.
Reverse switches for the input fader and cross fader is set on the bottom of the QFO, a curve switch for the cross fader is on the front and for the input faders they are set above the fader. Conductive plastic PCV fader has been applied with a new shock absorbent technology called the Shock Mount method, securing supreme stability for the turntable. +/- 60%.
A new style of pitch controlling is now possible thanks to the Spin Slide Pitch control. Slides 180 degrees with a selection of 3 control modes and a variety of linked scratch moves. It is also a very important feature when you’re creating melodies with single note records.
2 line inputs and program channels with Trim and 2 band EQs. Line input and the QFO turntable can be assigned to each program channel and each side of the cross fader freely via the players choice, by simply using a select switch.
Unique stereo monitor system that can select each PGM and MASTER with the 3-point lever switch. Rehearsal play can be performed without sending the sound out to the hall when MASTER is selected, and headphone jacks can be selected from a stereo phone jack or a mini jack.
The 4-foot insulators can be detached easily and 2 belt hooks (not included) can be attached for strap playing. CD & MP3 SCRATCH - Digital scratching is now possible by mounting the TT-M1 on the QFO and connecting it to the CDX-05. With this new combination, music CDs and MP3s can be digitally scratched by using the QFO as an interface.
source: vestax
Technics SH-EX 1200 Battle Mixer
The official DMC world championship mixer, the SH-EX1200, is stripped down to perfection and built to last. This mixer sports an ergonomically designed, long lasting optical cross fader.
Optical Cross Fader
The ergonomically designed optical cross fader ensures a long life and a smooth feel.
Spare In The Trunk
Easy-to-change spare channel fader stored inside - just in case.
Three Column Level Meter
Easy to read, easy to use three column level meter is ideal for the professional DJ.
Review by $abotage
I have used this mixer for about about 3-4 years and I believe it is one of the best basic 2 channel mixers available. The optical cross fader is flawless - and cuts like a razor. I have given it a very decent work out most days and would have put it thru millions of repetitions, still no fader leak! The spare is still in the trunk!
The EQ produces an excellent sound and is very accurate - not many mixers can crunch like this one - the only hunch being only high/low EQ (not all bad). I believe this will go down as one of the all time greatest battle mixers. The Technics SH-EX 1200 Battle Mixer is designed for and excels in all aspects of turntablism.
A great all-round mixer for scratching, beat juggling and mixing, without all the fancy stuff like panning, 3 EQ (high/mid/low) and cross fader curve. A solid build and smooth faders makes for an excellent mixer. I would highly recommend the Technics SH-EX 1200 Battle Mixer for beginners and advanced DJs alike. If you are getting into your turntablism and looking for mixers - get the turntablist’s mixer - the Official World DJ Championship Mixer.
Two faders up. T T
Rane TTM 56 Performance Mixer
Rane takes performance mixer design as seriously as performing DJs take their art form. In an effort to provide the best instrument possible, Rane devoted two years of R&D to developing a mixer with unparalleled performance. The TTM 56 is flexible, durable, and feature packed. The audio quality of the TTM 56 qualifies it for use in the most demanding live venue, recording studio or live broadcast applications.
Non-Contact Crossfader and Channel Faders
Rane’s patented magnetic fader is the fastest, most accurate, and long lasting on the planet. The design uses non-contact magnetic position sensor technology previously reserved for the most demanding aerospace and industrial applications. No travel noise - No bleed - ever! Unlike optical non-contact faders, the magnetic fader is impervious to smoke, moisture, temperature and aging. The electrical performance of these faders is totally unaffected by use. The mechanical life of the magnetic fader exceeds 10 million operations.
These magnetic faders know exactly what your hand is doing! A proprietary curve-translation module converts your hand motion into precise audio level control. The TTM 56 offers the user more flexible curve selection and fader assignment options than ever before. This technology is used for both Channel Faders and the Crossfader.
The Crossfader control includes Reverse switch, Mode switch and independent, continuously adjustable Contours for A-side and B-side. In Mode 1, the Contour control adjusts from smooth blend to extremely fast cut. Select Mode 2 for center-cut effect (PGM 1 and PGM 2 off in the center) with full range Contour control.
The Channel Fader controls include Reverse switches, Mode switches and continuously adjustable Contours. In Mode 1, the Contour control adjusts from smooth blend to extremely fast cut. Select Mode 2 for Left/Right pan effect with Contour control. The Channel Reverse switch allows left and right hand Channel Faders to control Program 1 or Program 2.
Post-Fader FlexFxTM
Rane’s proprietary FlexFx effects loop allows assigning post-fader Program 1, post-fader Program 2 or both to the effects loop. A Wet/Dry pan control gives the user total control of how much processed signal is in the mix. With the effects loop post-fader, reverb and other delay effects respond to both Channel Fader and Crossfader operation.
Vestax PMC 08 Battle Mixer
Vestax is best known for it’s scratch mixers, and over recent years the PMC-05, 06 and 07Pro have become the choice of top turntablists around the world, and this year Vestax is unveiling it’s latest addition to this genre, the VESTAX PMC-08. This new hybrid mixer offers a combination of technologies, with digital processing for supreme quality and flexibility, and an analogue interface for true dj-style control.
This mixer will be fully digital, including the crossfader.
With the highest demands from our Professional users of various technique, and needs of incorporating the finest parameters for their performances and styles, adjustable to their preference have made us reinventing the mixer allowing input sources turning to digital data.
Technics vs Vestax
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