DJAdvice.net - News for DJ’s and Musicians

With DVD playback a requirement of just about every type of AV installation, it is perhaps surprising that system integrators are forced to specify poorly equipped consumer devices through the lack of a suitable, professionally featured alternative.

All that changes with the announcement from HHB of the new UDP-89, a 1U rack-mountable universal DVD/CD player positively bristling with professionally specified features, connectivity and performance, and designed and engineered from the ground up for long-term dependability, excellent playback quality and comprehensive options for remote control. (more…)

Gemini is probably your best bet because they’ve been specializing in inexpensive DJ equipment for years. They know how to make a decent product for the price. The most you’ll loose on it is in the way of features such as scratching. Just make sure you handle it with care because they are not as sturdy like some of the more expensive systems.

To start out with a simple DJ CD system. The Gemini Mix 5 should do the job until your ready to take it to the next level. Don’t expect much from Gemini.

Here is a reply to an inquiry on the Stanton C304 now the C314.

“I think you are headed in the right direction with the Stanton C304. It’s their flagship CD player at a reasonable price. This thing will allow you to mimic real turntables with scratching and beat juggling just make sure it can play MP3 CD’s. Many times the lower priced CD players have problems with this. But this has all of the main features as the CDJ1000. The C304 LCD is located at the top of the player where as the CDJ1000 has a separate LCD in the center to indicate the position of the CD as it plays. Which is nice because that is where your eye tends to want to look when you are mixing and scratching. With the c304 the indicator is located in the main LCD screen. It should not be a serious problem though because it all comes down to what you are most comfortable with.

I think for the budget minded this is your best bet even over the Axis 9 from Numark.”

QUESTION:
I’m a beginner DJ, at present I’m learning how to DJ. I only want to know what is the main difference between CD turntables and turntables using records?

ANSWER:
The main differences between the two decks are one plays CD’s and the other plays records. The other difference is that CD decks are 100% digital and normal decks are analog although some decks have digital features like the Stanton T80.

The other difference is the size between the two which is obvious.

The benefits are 10 fold with the CD decks because you can literally cary thousands of CD’s without any help. Try bringing 100 or 200 records to a club or event. You need plenty of help lugging all of those crates. Another benefit is that you can easily burn a song to a cd. Finding songs on vinyl is an art only a handful of DJ’s can do and care about. Also, depending on where you live you might not be able to get vinyl.

CD decks are easier to transport and set up just as fast. They are not big and bulky as normal decks and they offer more features such as looping and hot cue buttons. This makes them much flexible and more desirable to the new DJ’s. For DJ’s who learned how to DJ using normal decks the CD deck is just an added bonus.

As far as dual cd players I think sticking with the Numark line is a good idea. Go for the CDN88 or CDN90 if possible. They offer more features for more creative mixes. Also look into American Audio cd players like the DCD Pro. They are a little cheaper but not by much and give you some of the same features as the Numark line.

Question

IN CD TURNTABLES THE SOUNDTRACKS ARE PLAYED ON THE CDS AND SCRATCHINGS ARE DONE ON THE TTABLE PRESENT OUTSIDE. BUT IN TURNTABLES USING RECORDS THE SOUNDTRACKS ARE IN THE RECORD ITSELF, AND SCRATCHINGS ARE ALSO DONE ON THE RECORD . THEN HOW DOES THE MUSICTRACKS ARE PLAYED WHILE THE RECORD IS SPINNED REGULARLY IN FORWARD AND BACKWARD POSITION?

Answer

To answer your second question, in order for what you describe to happen there has to be two turntables and two records playing. One record is for the playback and the other record is for scratching. There is no way to play a record and scratch it at the same time. In the case of CD turntables there is some flexibility. The CD turntables have the ability to sample and loop. For example I could play a cd track and sample a portion of the music and then loop it for playback in the CD turntables. Now while the loop is playing back I can use the scratching feature built into the CD turntable all using the same CD turntable. This is not possible with turntables except maybe with the Numark X2 Hybrid Turntable.

HARD DRIVE TURNTABLE

Numark, the number #1 choice of DJs everywhere, is proud to announce the HDX, a tabletop HD/CD/MP3 player with an ultra-high torque, motorized 12-inch platter that holds a vinyl record for the ultimate in vinyl scratch feel. Styled after Numark’s highly successful CDX player, the new HDX is the most advanced DJ media player available. Incorporating an onboard hard drive accessible via USB 2.0 and an 8x CD reader, the HDX is the perfect tool for professional and aspiring performing DJs, mobile DJs, as well as club installers.

The new HDX sports an 80 GB hard drive supporting MP3, WMA, and WAV, media formats-ensuring the broadest file compatibility. With support for these compressed media formats, DJs can now dramatically reduce the volume/weight of the music library they transport-making their work easier. Adding further convenience, the HDX features an onboard Gracenote® CDDB (CD database) to automatically recognize and tag audio CDs. The unit’s enhanced search capabilities facilitate easy file location by artist, album, genre, track, plus BPM. The HDX includes support for PS2 connectivity-enabling string searches and navigation through the menus via a QWERTY keyboard. And with high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity providing full access to the hard drive for both Mac and PC, updating content has never been easier.

When it comes to real scratch feel, nothing beats vinyl-and in this area, the HDX is best in class. Featuring an ultra-high torque motorized 12-inch platter that holds a real user-replaceable vinyl record, the HDX interface is as good as it gets. The new HDX features an industry maximum 4.7 kgfcm torque direct drive motor, aluminum platter, dual “battle-style” controls, and forward/reverse toggle. Additionally, this exceptional player incorporates a superior Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD), slot-load CD transport mechanism, CDR compatibility, and extensive DSP functionality.

With its ability to rip CDs directly to the hard drive for playback and storage, the HDX makes it easy to build one’s onboard music library. The HDX also records live via its analog inputs and encodes the input signal directly to the hard drive. Further, the HDX offers an S/PDIF digital output. For even greater versatility, the HDX provides a proprietary link connector for connecting two HDXs together-facilitating access to content via either unit’s hard drive or CD reader.

Additional HDX features include several modes for scratching and looping, including auto beat matching and smart looping via Numark’s proprietary Beatkeeper™ technology. Onboard beat-synched digital effects include sonar, slide, filter, echo, plus chop-and effects can be manipulated via a separate control wheel interface. The HDX also offers a pitch slider programmable up to ±100% pitch control, as well as a high quality, 100% key lock.

Numark CEO Jack O’Donnell commented on the new HDX, “With support for a wide variety of media formats, the highest torque direct drive motor available, a full size platter, and TTX turntable styling and control, the new HDX provides today’s DJ with the ultimate in scratch vinyl feel while offering the benefits of random access only a hard drive can provide-eliminating any need for compromise.”

Numark’s new HDX HD/CD/MP3 player is an exciting new tool for today’s demanding DJ. The HDX will be available Q3 of 2005.
Numark Industries is the world’s leading brand of professional DJ equipment. Numark is known for providing breakthrough products for professional DJs in over 100 countries. Since 1971, Numark has designed and delivered innovative products and numerous industry “firsts.” For more information, visit www.numark.com.

Headquarters 200 Scenic View Drive Cumberland, RI 02864 U.S.A.
Contact (401) 658-3131 fax (401) 658-3640 media@numark.com

Numark has launched a new version of their website. The new site features blogs, forums, news stories, all-new instructional video and a greatly improved interface.

Most prominent on the list of improvements to Numark’s website is a completely redesigned interface. Users can create their own account online to manage their Numark online experience. Numark products can now be found easier than ever thanks to the inclusion of product-specific pages that contain all the details, features, videos, FAQs and support for that product.

The new site also features blogs from the latest from some of the hottest performers using Numark gear including X:144, DJ Wiz, KJ Toqer, and Jazzy Jay. The Numark blogs discuss topics like: Making wild, innovative videos with NuVJ, vinyl hunting tips, video mix parties at M1-5 lounge in New York, karaoke at the 7 Bamboo, in San Jose, and using the Numark TTX in live performances.

A brand-new user Forum established a Numark users a community where Numark users can share tips, tricks and experiences. An events calendar is now on the website to showcase where Numark products can be seen in action. In addition, an improved news section includes samples of Numark in the news, and current press releases. Product reviews are also available for those considering the purchase of Numark gear.

Numark’s support feature makes finding support for Numark products a snap, by using a simple navigation tree to locate products by category, then model. Once a product is selected, product images, documents and downloads, tech specs, FAQs (where applicable), Key Features, videos (if any) and an overview provide all the information needed.

For more information, visit their web site at www.numark.com.

MP3 Support The MP3 audio format has taken the world by storm and now the CDJ-1000MK3 can play all your MP3s; CBR or VBR at any bitrate from CD-R or CD-RW.

Improved Jog Dial The CDJ-1000MK3’s 7-inch jogdial has been improved to offer DJs another world’s first - the ability to quickly and easily alter the resistance of the jog wheel, which benefits from a new metallic ‘non-slip’ finish. The Jog Dial Display is now brighter and has been brought closer to the surface of the Jog for better viewing angles. The center display also features 45-degree markers for added visual cueing assistance.

Hot Cue (sampler) Memorizes up to 3 cue points per CD. These points can then be recalled by hitting either of the A, B or C buttons. This function can also be used like a mini sampler for vocals, stabs, or breaks, adding that touch of creativity to any DJ set. The Pioneer CDJ 1000MK3 now allows loops to be stored to Hot Cues.

Reverse Instant reverse is controlled by using a toggle switch. With no loss of tempo or pitch, it can be used immediately within any track without having to stop or start.

Real Time Seamless Loop A quick and simple way to set a loop while a track is playing. Once the loop is set, it can then be looped continuously or until the ReLoop / Exit button is pressed. When released, the track continues playing without any pause. The Pioneer CDJ 1000MK3 loop can be re-trigged at any time by hitting the ReLoop button.

Loop In / Out Adjust Another world first from Pioneer - is the ability to adjust both the In and Out points of a loop stored in memory. So now fine tuning a loop is both quick and easy. Loop-In adjust is only available on the Pioneer CDJ 1000MK3.

Reloop Hitting the newly backlit Reloop button instantly takes you back to the beginning of the loop stored in the Pioneer CDJ 1000MK3’s memory. Clever use of Reloop can create some sample like effects. The same loop is always stored in memory until replaced with a new loop.

Memory The Pioneer CDJ 1000MK3 has a memory feature that lets you store Wave Data as well as Cue and Loop points. The data can be stored on a removable memory card (MMC or SD) or the players internal memory. The removable memory card can also be used in any CDJ-1000, so once you’ve stored your favorite cue and loop points they’re stored for life. The Pioneer CDJ 1000MK3 also has a feature that allows you to duplicate memory cards. The display of the Pioneer CDJ 1000 MK3 has been improved to give more accurate display of memory points within the track.

Wave Display Another improvement for the Pioneer CDJ 1000MK3 is an improved Wave Display offering a better resolution and continuous display. Wave data is stored to the memory card for instant recall when a track is called up.

Track Display CD-Text and ID3 data is displayed within the main display area for rapid track identification. An indicator also shows the total number of tracks available for playback.

CD Control CD Control Buttons High Quality Aluminium buttons – Track Search, Search, Cue and Play / Pause.

Jog Mode The Pioneer CDJ 1000MK3 can be set in either Vinyl or CDJ mode. In CDJ mode, the jog dial functions just like a Pioneer CDJ player, but without the touch sensitivity. Scratch Play / Cue When the Pioneer CDJ 1000MK3 is in vinyl mode, the top of the jog dial functions just like a Vinyl Turntable. Pressing down stops the music and allows you to scratch or cue your track by rotating the jog dial in either direction. Vinyl Speed Adjust Touch/Brake and Release/Start Separate control knobs allow for quick adjustment of start and stop timing.

Tempo Master Tempo Pioneer’s Master Tempo locks the pitch of the track even when you change the speed. You can speed up or slow down the beat without any noticeable difference in how the vocal and instruments sound.

Tempo Control A 100mm linear high precision slider gives DJs total control and ensures that the tempo adjustment is easy and accurate.

Tempo Control Range Ranges of +/- 6%, +/-10%, +/-16% and +/-100% (+70%/-100% for MP3) can be assigned to the Tempo Control slider.

Tempo Control Reset Resets the tempo to 0% or original tempo of the track regardless of the slider position.

Eject Button & CD Lock The Pioneer CDJ 1000MK3 has a guard to prevent you from accidentally pressing it the eject button. The CD is locked until the track is stopped. This can be deactivated as well if you are looking to do quick mixes. The player also features a new Quick Return function; in the event you accidentally eject a playing CD, re-inserting the CD will resume playback from the point the music stopped.

Multi-Read Format The Pioneer CDJ 1000MK3 can read CD, CD-R and CD-RW disks for CD-Audio and MP3 data formats.

Front Loading Loading CD’s without having to open doors or trays makes swapping discs and selecting tracks that much faster. It also helps to keep dirt and any nasty substances out of the CD’s working parts.

Cue Functions Auto Cue This is the fastest way to find the beginning of a track. The sound level can also be changed to suit your style of music (-36db to –78db). There is also an option to turn it off if you prefer to cue up your CD tracks manually.

Real Time Cue A cue point can be set on the fly and stored into the internal memory by just simply hitting the In / Real-time cue button.

Cue Marker Display The current cue point is indicated within the jogdial’s center display to show where the cuepoint is relative to the current play position. Legato Link Conversion For High Quality Sound Equipped with Pioneer’s wide range technology– Legato Link Conversion. ThePioneer CDJ 1000MK3 is capable of reproducing sound frequencies above 20kHz, which are lost during normal CD-format playback. Not only does this give great sound reproduction but sounds closer to the original recording and more analog like vinyl. Shock-Proof Memory and Anti-Vibration Construction Sound jumps or skipping is prevented by using shock-proof memory for continuous playback even in the event of a bump or knock.

Anti-Vibration Oil-dampened floating suspension prevents sound skipping, even when the player is subjected to impact during use or vibrations generated from high volume music and low frequency bass. Digital Output The Pioneer CDJ 1000MK3 is equipped with full-feature digital output. This means you can keep your scratching and master tempo playback entirely in the digital domain. Users who simply want to use the digital output for archival purposes may do so via the digital mode switch on the rear of the unit. All connectors on the rear of the unit are now gold-plated for higher connection quality and longevity.

CDJ 1000MK3 Forums