NDX 900

 
USB-MIDI DJ Controller with CD/MP3/USB player / Built-in USB computer audio interface / Includes Traktor 2 LE DJ Software
The NDX900 Controller is capable of mixing Music from virtually any Digital source including a computer, CDs, MP3 CDs, or even USB Flash drives. NDX900 Controller has a layout that is familiar to DJs everywhere with a large, seven-inch touch-sensitive illuminated platter, smooth, front-loading CD drive, top-facing USB port, powerful remixing, effects control, scratching, looping, and sampling capabilities, all in a chassis that has a solid feel and Professional look. NDX900’s Beat-synced DSP effects include chop, echo, filter, flanger, pan, and phaser with full control of the effects blend.

Features:

USB-MIDI DJ Controller with CD/MP3/USB player

Control Software and play from CDs, MP3 CDs, or USB flash drives

Built-in USB computer Audio interface

Includes Traktor 2 LE DJ Software

Premapped for use with Virtual DJ, Traktor, and compatible with virtually all MIDI compatible DJ          software. 

Beat-synced DSP effects with wet-dry fader: chop, echo, filter, flanger, pan, phaser

Smooth, fast, reliable, slot-loading drive

Large, seven-inch, touch-sensitive illuminated platter with auto-calibration

Control MIDI software with no timecode needed via USB

Automatic BPM analyzer and Tap tempo for manual BPM entry

Adjust Pitch ±6, 12, 25, and 100%, or bend with pitch buttons

Key Lock holds pitch while you independently manipulate BPM

Seamless looping, sampling, and easily accessible hot cues

Large, Backlit display for BPM, CD/MP3 text tags, and folder navigation 

Numark V7

 

Moving forward in the digital world of DJing could not be possible without companies like Numark who consistently strive to push the envelope. Without a doubt, the Numark V7 is going to be a hit with DJs all over the world…

What is it?

The Numark V7 is a high-speed MIDI controller used in conjunction with Serato Itch. It has a motorized platter with a real vinyl record for the look and feel of a traditional turntable; it has its own built-in sound card, with 2 pairs of RCA outputs that will allow 1 V7 to control both decks. When using two V7s together, this feature is a perfect set-up for seamless transitions. There are loop controls for 'on the fly' loop adjustments, time control, and a touch strip that gives you instant access to any part of the song- like dropping the needle at any point on the record. Layout - First Look and Feel
The look is stylish yet practical. The 7" platter and the strip search are the first things you will notice when seeing the V7 in action; it is the closest feeling to working with real vinyl any DJ could ask for. All of the buttons are very sturdy and comfortable to the touch; this controller will give any single deck controllers on the market a good run for their money.

Testing - Getting Started

Numark V7 Motorized Turntable Software Controller - Back View

One of the best attributes of the V7 is the ease of the set-up. I was blown away by how quickly I was up and running after taking it out of the box; I was mixing within 15 minutes of the UPS delivery guy leaving my house. After installing the software there was nothing to map; every button worked perfectly. All I had to do to get started was hook up the audio cables to my mixer, and plug in the USB cable. Great Hardware Paired With Great Software
The Numark V7 is paired with Serato Itch to provide an amazing interface between DJs and their music. Serato Itch is a user-friendly version of Serato Scratch Live that will fully interact with every aspect of the V7 controller. Serato's Itch program works flawlessly with the controller and is both intuitive and user-friendly… In addition to the bells and whistles of some of the best DJ CD players on the market, there are controls for navigating files and folders; you won't even have to touch the keyboard on your laptop.
Numark takes it to another level with the addition of whats called "Strip Search." This is a long strip at the top of the platter that allows you to cue ahead anywhere in the entire song, instantly. Lets say you don't need a long intro- you can forward into the song instantly and set up your cue point. The autoloop control is cool as well; this allows you to set in advance how many beats you want to loop. For those who would rather do it themselves, you can simply touch a button and you're in manual mode as well. And for DJs who prefer two controllers, the deck select button allows you to link another V7.

Critiques

My major critique would be the fact that the V7 has very little support when using Cue (Numark's own brand of software). For several weeks I tried getting Cue to map the V7 using mappers and updates; unfortunately, it never happened for me. I'm told by Numark that "The V7 is basically 1/2 of an NS7; and to pair the two together, you will need to use the included ethernet cable." The cable is a bit short should you be using a 19" club mixer, but any standard RJ universal ethernet cable will do; they are inexpensive, and available in many lengths. I've found that the ethernet cable feature is nice because it allows for the sound card to stay on 1 deck; this allows me to change decks and DJs in the middle of a set without having to mess with audio cables. Conclusion
Numark's second release of a program-specific MIDI controller has only minor flaws if you plan to use it specifically for DJing. The controller is easy to use, and the audio quality from its own built-in sound card is superb. The V7 would look great in any DJ booth, and it would be my choice as the perfect controller except for the fact that I also use video in my sets. Now, if Numark could make a controller like the V7 for its own software, I would be all over it.

Bullet points:

Numark V7 Motorized Turntable Software Controller - Angle View

What is it: A high-speed MIDI controller specifically designed for use with Serato Itch Software
Who is it for: DJs with laptop capability
How long does it take to set up: 10-15 minutes
What is required for its use: a PC or MAC
Difficulty level: Almost nonexistent for any type of DJ, unfortunately, if you're a VJ using "Cue," you're out of luck; support for Cue is nonexistent.

Numark iDJPro

 
NAMM 2012: Numark's first iOS DJing controller, the iDJ Live, was fun but a little basic. However, the company's new iDJ Pro looks like it might be a more serious proposition.
Designed with a slot for your iPad in the centre, iDJ Live integrates seamlessly with Aloriddim's djay app and enables you to combine 'real' and touchscreen control. It also works with other Core MIDI-enabled apps.
Find out more below or on the Numark website.

Numark iDJ Pro product information

Party with the power of your iPad.
Deck out your iPad for some serious mixing. iDJ Pro from Numark is a professional DJ controller that expands your iPad's touch interface, seamlessly integrating with Algoriddim's djay for iPad app to form a completely new DJ experience. iDJ Pro features a sleek, brushed aluminum casing and is equipped with all the professional controls you expect, plus some design features and capabilities that will inspire brand-new surges of creativity.

The seamless mix
Combining the industry-leading design of Numark DJ controllers with the power of your iPad and Algoriddim's djay app, iDJ Pro puts a 30-pin dock for iPad at the center of its traditional dual-platter setup, giving you access to your iPad's touchscreen alongside an expanded layout of physical controls: touch-sensitive platters, large die-cast aluminum volume knobs, a dedicated music-library scroll knob, plus hot cues, looping, pitch and effect controls. Once your iPad is docked, a latching door provides total, seamless integration, giving you an intuitive, flexible and powerful DJ system.

DJ with Airplay
Thanks to your iPad's wireless capability, you'll have access to virtually any song instantly. iDJ Pro empowers you with access to the cloud, allowing you to download tracks and have them pumping in seconds. iDJ Pro is fully integrated with Algoriddim's popular djay for iPad app and can work with other Core MIDI-enabled apps. It's also AirPlay compatible, giving you the flexibility to blast your set wirelessly through AirPlay speakers. iDJ Pro comes ready to party with professional microphone and external device inputs as well as balanced XLR master outputs.
Get your iPad in the mix with iDJ Pro from Numark.

Rane TTM 57SL Review

 
The Rane TTM 57SL is a must have for any DJ/turntablist that is serious about what they do. I had a chance to get this piece of gear setup in my DJ rig, and I had a great experience with it. It was very simple to setup, the Serato Scratch Live software recognized my iTunes library right away, and I was able to get to rocking beats right away. The magnetic faders on the mixer were smooth as butter, and they made mixing very pleasurable.
 
Features

Play a combination of digital and analog sources.
Play up to two digital files controlled by vinyl or CD while recording your mix.
Or, digitize two vinyl records or analog sources simultaneously.
Cue analog and digital sources.
Operate standalone as a no-compromise performance mixer.
All analog inputs are phono or line capable
Input Gain and Left/Right Pan controls
3-band, full cut Tone controls with Kill switches
Magnetic faders for Channel Faders and Crossfader. No travel noise - No bleed.
Independent Contour and Reverse controls
Mic Input with Engage switch, Level control and 2-band Tone control
3 Outputs : Main (XLR), Booth 1/4' Jack TRS, Auxiliary (RCA)
Assign Program 1, Program 2 or Both to external FlexFx loop
Internal LFO Filter and Echo Effects with six possible insert points
Pre- or Post-channel faders for Program 1 and Program 2
Headphone Cue Monitor includes Cue Pan, Main Mix select and Level
8 Channels of Streaming Audio
USB firmware updates

The best thing about this unit is the amount of controls on the mixer that can be assigned to the software parameters in Scratch Live. These can be assigned with a simple right-click, and each button has a long list of parameters that it can be assigned to. This keeps a DJ's performance focused on the turntables and the mixer. That is HUGE, because no one wants to see a DJ "checking his email" in the middle of his performance.

The TTM 57SL is a high-quality DJ mixer with an audio interface, and a stable playback software all in one system. As a DJ that plays vinyl, moving to a computer based playback system was a scary thing, but I have confidence using this product out live. It just work

Numark N4

 
The Numark N4 is a digital DJ software controller. It comes with a version of Virtual DJ and a cut down copy of Serato called DJ Intro, which is designed for DJs taking their first steps on the journey into the digital world and thus don’t yet have the need for expensive audio interfaces. This machine offers control over the browsing, mixing and looping of your music, with access to the software’s effects parameters. But it doesn’t stop there; the N4 allows you to plug in your traditional analogue vinyl turntables or CD players and use it as a simple DJ mixer, without having to plug it into your computer, or even integrate your analogue set up with two decks of your digital set up via a USB cable. You can also use your analogue set up with time code and use the N4 as a mixer and audio interface. There are two separate inputs for microphones, with a quarter inch jack with adjustable treble and bass and independent gain control. With an easy, well spaced layout, the N4’s 571.5mm x 304.8mm x 61mm size and 3.2 kg weight makes it an easy solution for the entry level or intermediate DJ. The N4 is class compliant, which means two things; first, there are no added drivers to install, and, second, when you plug in the power and hook it up to your computer you’re ready to start immediately.

When the N4 is unpacked, you’re presented with an organised control surface with two handy jog wheels and a battery of faders, knobs and buttons designed to be intuitive and easy to use. At the top and in the centre is a large push encoder which serves as the main browsing control, with four buttons below that allow you to load your chosen sounds onto any or all of the four decks. To the left is the headphone control, which lets you change the volume in your cans as well as the amount of cue or master. To the right are two volume knobs that control the booth level and the master level separately. Flanking these basic controls are the tools which help you get to grips with the effects parameters in your software, namely four step encoders and eight buttons, which give you instant control over looping capabilities and effect manipulation on the fly. As you would expect, this configuration is mirrored on each side of the unit (as it would be for almost any traditional DJ mix console), which adds to the intuitive feel. In the middle are four faders, which control the level of the four decks or channels with bass, mid and treble EQ and gain control on each, with a cross fader lying underneath. You can configure the cross fader using the buttons either side, which also double up as the video fade controls for VJs who want to use Virtual DJ. The transport controls are two large play and cue buttons located under each of the jog wheels. You’ll find the pitch faders, along with various buttons that help change the pitch range, key lock, pitch bend, sync and tap tempo settings, at each end of the controller. The N4 also allows you to change how you interact with the jog wheel by giving you the choice of scratch or seek mode.

The N4 interfaces with either Serato or Virtual DJ with absolutely no glitches or lags. There is a pleasing amount of resistance on all of the knobs and the buttons all have a “click” feel about them. Using the EQ or gain control is also easy; there is a notch at the halfway mark, as well as a pointer on top, so you can feel where you are or have a quick glance to orientate trimming the levels. One very handy feature can be found in the fact there are two separate headphone inputs. One is for the larger, quarter inch jack type and the other is for the smaller, eighth of an inch jack (similar to the one you might find on an mp3 player or smart phone). Plugging in one set of headphones doesn’t stop the functionality of the other input. By that it’s possible to have two sets of headphones fully functioning at the same time, although control over the volume is not separate. The jog wheel has a single function, depending on what mode you are in, and getting stuck into a beat mixing session can be done immediately. Of course if you are new to the DJ world you can use the sync button to match up the tempo of your music allowing you to concentrate on the finer points of blending your sounds.
This multi functioning DJ station has two microphone inputs and along with its relatively small size means it’s ideal for a mobile DJ. The balanced XLR jacks at the back suggest this machine could be used in a semi professional set up. With the ability to hook into any operating DJ booth through the XLRs or even the RCA outputs, there is indeed more to this machine than meets the eye. But it should be noted that this is really geared towards entry level or intermediate DJs. What Numark have done here is to pack a lot of functionality into a small and flexible package.

CDJ-2000

 

Pioneer made its first major stamp in clubland in 2001 with the CDJ-1000, and steadily the 1000s have become the industry standard DJ device. There have been the updates to the CDJ-1000 design with the MkI and MkII versions, but with laptops becoming more and more popular in the clubs, it seemed that Pioneer was in need of something special to keep it on top.

So this is its answer - a fully-fledged digital media player, retaining the robust looks and feel of the original CDJ while providing all the connectivity and modern features that the new generation of DJs demands.
The first thing that strikes you when you take the CDJ-2000 out of its packaging is the sheer size of the unit – it's more comparable to larger Pioneer's DVJ device. The size increase is mainly due to the huge WQVGA screen (480 x 234) which has been included without compromising on standard button sizes or, indeed, the size of the platter.
Inside, the unit has been improved with a brand new Wolfson DAC processor that when hooked up digitally to a mixer does sound better at high volume levels that the CDJ-1000.

"CDJ-2000's main focus is on managing your digital music library and integrating seamlessly with laptops, MIDI and other new technologies that making their way into the DJ booth."

Switching on the unit brings to life the usual backlit buttons but with the added benefit of a backlit jogwheel and huge glowing screen - you're not going to have any problems navigating your way around the CDJ-2000 in a dark club. Plus, if the screens or the jogwheel glow too bright for your taste you can tweak the brightness in the settings page very easily.
When it comes to the more exciting new features, the CDJ-2000's main focus is on managing your digital music library and integrating seamlessly with laptops, MIDI and other new technologies that making their way into the DJ booth.

Rekordbox

The backbone of this is the included Rekordbox software collaboration between Pioneer and MixVibes - a sort of iTunes for DJs. Once installed on your Mac or PC the software enables you to import your MP3 collection (either manually or existing iTunes Libraries and playlists), tag it, set cue and loops points and analyse and prepare your music in a similar manner to when you import tracks into Traktor or other DJ software.

This is a breeze, simply dragging tracks into Rekordbox starts the analysing, works out the BPM and allows you to tag tracks and rate your music collection for recall on the CDJ-2000 later. You can colour code your music and add all the ID3 information you might need to help recalling the tracks easier. At the top of the software, you can view the analysed waveform and click it to set hot cue and loop points, which again can be saved on USB key or SD card, allowing any CDJ-2000 or 900 to be able to recall them.

Traktor Kontrol F1 & Traktor Pro 2.5

 
The latest Traktor hardware and software from Native Instruments – namely the Kontrol F1 Ableton-style clip controller and Traktor Pro 2.5, the software whose new functionality it has been designed to harness – will hit stores at the end of May 2012, it was announced today.
The software features “Remix Decks”, a development of the sample deck concept first included in the Traktor S4 then Traktor Pro 2 software. Remix decks are directly controlled by the keys on the F1, allowing the triggering of up to 64 one-shots, loops or even full tracks on up to four separate “Remix Decks”.

Perhaps most excitingly, an on-the-fly performance constructed in such a way can be saved, complete with beatgrid, BPM and key information, in a new file format, which can be loaded into a track deck in Traktor’s browser – instant mashups here we come!
It is easy to then control a remix deck via jogwheel or control vinyl, scratching and cueing as if the material were a simple audio file.

Sets out to blend further the lines between turntablism and controllerism…

Alongside a DJ controller or a Traktor Kontrol X1 (which it shares the form factor of) plus a Traktor Scratch system, the new software and hardware sets out to blend further the lines between turntablism and controllerism. SRP is US$279 / €249 including Traktor Pro 2.5. All owners of Traktor Pro 2.x get a free upgrade to 2.5.
To support the announcement and to demonstrate some of what the new hardware and software is capable of, Native Instruments released the following video, featuring a routine from Shiftee and Greg Nice.

Pioneer DJM-2000

 
It's designed to sit flush alongside the CDJ-2000s, and Pioneer has mirrored the same slanted-front design. When you're in front of four CDJ-2000s and this mixer, it not only looks awesome, but the amount of flexibility in how you choose to DJ is immense with this particular setup.
Although the mixer can work splendidly with any other CDJs, its integration with the 2000 series is incredible.

"Using start/stop and MIDI on/off, you can choose when to send MIDI from the mixer and when not to."

Around the back there are six LAN ports, with four ports to connect CDJ-2000s using the LINK technology and two for connecting two separate laptops running Rekordbox.
This means that laptops can be connected via a single LAN cable and, when using the CDJ-2000s, can act as a means of searching and browsing your music, while all the actual DJing is done on the Pioneer hardware by dragging songs directly onto the Live icons of the CDJs or even directly on to the mixer.

 

When songs are dragged onto the DJM-2000 mixer icon, they are previewed - you can use the Link Cue function to preview tracks without having to load them to a deck. This makes browsing your laptop-stored music even faster. Of course, as mentioned before, this is only one way to DJ using this mixer.
Inside the DJM-2000 there's also a 24-bit, 96kHz, eight-channel soundcard, so it's easy to hook up a laptop and use the DJM-2000 as a multi-output soundcard and mixer without any extra external boxes or audio interfaces required.

Numark 4TRAK

It is a DJ controller and a standard 4 channel DJ Mixer combined in one, bundled up with a special 4TRAK edition of Traktor Pro. I kept my Traktor 2 running so I honestly can’t tell you too much about the Traktor 4TRAK edition, but from what I’ve understood, it is a lighter version of traktor – with a few less features then the Traktor 2 that I am running.
The controller has a really nice build. It has a Brushed Aluminum casing and a general rustic feel which really makes the makes the controller feel nice and rigid. The Faders feels nice and sturdy and even though I prefer bigger Rubberized EQ knobs (due to my long fingers), i think that Numark found a decent compromise with these knobs, which for some reason reminds me a bit of the Allen and Heath X-one Series EQ knobs. Maybe it’s actually the space in between the EQ knobs that reminds me of the X-One’s EQ knobs. the 4TRAK is Slighty less cramped then the X-One. And that I am happy about. The platters have a nice smooth feel to them. They run with 3600 ticks of resolution per rotation, so it does not only feel smooth rotating the platter, but it will also sound smooth within the digital world, meaning inside tractor. Lucky for me, I rarely scratch, so I can keep the platters setting off scratch – which will avoid incidents of me accidentally touching the platter when reaching for the Loop buttons up here, which I use a lot. Just something I noticed happening a couple of times during the last couple of days.
The pitch faders are nice and longhand have the feel of a technics 1210 i my opinion – if you are not too familiar with the 1210s, they are somewhat firmer then the CDJs faders.
 

The Mixer section features a 4 channel mixer, which works as a regular mixer while at the same time functions as a controller for the Traktor DJ software. The fact that you have a controller and a straigt up audio mixer is great for DJs who are looking for a flexible system. With this box you can easily inject 12inch vinyl and CDs into your laptop mixsets.  I really find it inspiring to be able to drop 12 inches into my otherwise majority laptop sets with such an ease. really great.
On the back we have the 4 regular inputs (4 line, 2 phono and 2 mics). We have the booth out as RCA. The master out as both RCA and balanced XLR. What we don’t see inside the box, is a 24bit audio interface that runs through the one and only USB cable that needs to be connected to the computer. All sound and midi controls runs through this cable. All midi send via the controller is 14bit (what some might call high resolution midi (normal midi is 7 bit), which gives a great smooth feel and better precision when using for example the pitch fader and the platters.

 
The controller comes with 2 maps, that loads up in Traktor 2. Since I was already running traktor 2, I am currently not running the Traktor 2 4Trak edition, I simply loaded up the maps within the controller setups menu in the settings. Press import and find the 4Trak Main map and the 4Trak FX map, make sure that they receive data from the 4Trak unit and sends it back to the 4Trak unit.
The FX console on the top of the unit slides and locks into place nicely. It connects into the main unit with a USB, so that you don’t have to use an extra USB slot. From this panel you control the 2 first effects in traktor as well as the highpass and lowpass filters on each of the channels. The knobs match the options in the traktor software, although I had to change one thing in the map. The button under the FX MIX knob was set to allow scrolling through effects – I prefer to have this button as an ON and OFF switch of the effect itself. Maybe this has been changed in newer maps, I don’t know, but it’s really not difficult to change at all. 3 clicks in the controller mapping and it’s all done.
The file browsing works really well and lets you browse seamlessly between favorite playlists, playlists in the tree and tracks within the playlists. You load the track either to the left or right channel with these buttons. Preview by clicking down on the Rotary knob.

Numark iDJ2

The Numark iDJ2 is the only iPod mixing console that provides full control of your music with real–time scratching (via two jog wheels), a stunning color screen and Numark's exclusive crate management. Keylock insures that DJs can easily change tempo without affecting pitch. The iDJ2 features a fresh and innovative new iPod docking system that allows users to play and mix two songs simultaneously from a single iPod without the need of a computer. Users can also hook up multiple mass storage devices including additional iPods, thumb drives, and external USB hard drives through rear panel USB ports. In addition to USB connectivity, the iDJ2 comes complete with line inputs for audio sources including a microphone, CD players and turntables.

This is an extraordinary mixing console and portable DJ system with professional DJ features like balanced outputs, pitch control, key lock, seamless looping, and full cueing. DJs can easily manage their music library using the iDJ2's highly intuitive graphic interface and the full-color LCD screen offers crystal-clear visual track–profiling.

iPod Direct Mode turns iDJ2 into the ultimate iPod player, allowing you play any music from your iPod, including songs purchased from the iTunes music store.

iDJ2's unique Crate feature allows easy organization of songs to be played and supports multiple file formats including MP3, WAV and AAC (unprotected). The iDJ2 also supports iPod docking and charging, to keep the music playing and the party going all night long.

• Large backlit, full-color display with revolutionary user interface
• Key lock support for maintaining key while tempo shifting
• Universal Dock for iPod with adjustable mount
• Seamless looping, pitch control, scratching capability via jog wheels
• Visual Track Profiles to skip through phrases
• USB ports for iPods, thumb drives and hard drives
• Play music from two iPods simultaneously, including two songs from same iPod
• Scratching and mixing for MP3, WAV and AAC (unprotected) files
• Direct Mode supports playback of iTunes music store (protected AAC) files
• Pitch control with range up to +25% and down to 100%
• Beatkeeper™ technology with TAP override function
• Search ability via two large jog wheels
• USB Keyboard support
• 3–band EQ with gain control on both channels
• Dedicated microphone input with tone and level control
• Phono/line inputs on both channels for adding additional devices

Pioneer SVM-1000

Designed for use with our DVJ-1000 DVD/CD decks, the SVM-1000 gives you comprehensive control by synchronising both audio and video elements of your performance.

Even audio-only DJs can easily add visuals synced to the music from the SVM-1000's built-in visualiser capability.

Complete with LCD touch panel, an impressive range of effects and 96 kHz/ 24-bit studio sound quality, the MIDI assignable SVM-1000 functions in a similar fashion to our acclaimed DJM series; which for DJs mean that the doors to full-on AV freedom are now fully open!

DJs and VJs have worked together to deliver immersive AV experiences for decades, and of course it is natural that the two art forms are so closely interlinked.

Our revolutionary DVJ-X1 brought the two crafts closer than ever before in 2004, as the world’s first DVD
decks opened up VJing to DJs.

However, a major stumbling block for many was the lack of a simple and easy-to-use AV mixer; DJs and VJs
had to use separate mixers to blend sound and vision.

Now the super-versatile SVM-1000 has the power and technology to change all that.

Developed with input from leading DJ and VJ artists this mighty mixer works perfectly in both audio and AV set-ups.

For many artists this mixer will be the missing link they have been waiting for. DJs and VJs around the world now have the potential to explore new avenues of creativity!

Numark omni control

 
The Omni Control from Numark is a professional-quality DJ control surface and USB 2.0 computer audio interface that comes with DJing software. It enables you to control most of the functions of the software without having to use the mouse and keyboard of the computer. The tactile feel of controlling your sounds with buttons, knobs, and faders, makes performing with the Omni Control a more enjoyable experience.
With a computer, some music files, and the Omni Control, you have everything you need to create dynamic DJ mixes anywhere you go. The built-in 24-bit USB 2.0 audio interface provides pristine audio to the house sound system, and to the built-in headphone jack. It features plug-and-play simplicity with Mac and Windows computers, so instead of getting a headache you can get right into the music.
Numark went out of their way to make the Omni Control as durable as possible. Its all-metal chassis, and all of the knobs, faders, and buttons are solid and built to last. The ease and simplicity of having your hardware controls pre-mapped to the software make mixing with the Omni Control feel like you're using dedicated hardware. However, this isn't the case. All of the controls on the Omni Control can be re-assigned to any software application with MIDI mapping functionality.
 

Complete professional computer-DJ package

Hardware controller with built-in audio I/O

Includes Native Instruments Traktor LE and MixMeister Fusion Live software; mapped for Traktor Pro

Heavyweight, sturdy feel in a steel housing

Extremely clean, high-quality sound card

Firm, reliable knobs, faders, and buttons

Supports MIDI over USB 

 

 

Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol X1 Controller Features

 
The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol X1 is the first official Traktor controller for use with any DJ software. Whether you are a DVS timecode or software DJ, simply connect the Traktor Kontrol X1 to a computer running Traktor (or other performance software) and gain instant control of your decks and effect parameters. Robust rotary knobs with a heavy-duty feel and backlit buttons provide precise visual and tactile status feedback- letting you delve deep inside Traktor without having to touch your computer.
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol X1 Features:
-Designed by the creators of Traktor for perfect software integration
-Plug and play - instant recognition by Traktor with no setup required
-Precision designed high-end buttons, knobs and encoders
-Software controlled backlit buttons for comprehensive visual feedback
-Lightweight, robust housing with slim, ultra-portable form factor - fits perfectly alongside a standard club mixer
-Super-intuitive loop and cue control section
-8 knobs and 8 buttons for simultaneous access to all effect parameters of both decks
-Push encoders for browsing and loading tracks to each deck instantly
-Expandable - connect two X1s to control four decks
-Compatible – incl. MIDI templates for controlling other DJ and performance software
-Seamlessly adjustable LED brightness adapts to any environment from bright daylight to the darkest club
-Button off glow for reading button labels in absolute darkness.
-All buttons feature backlights in multiple colors for ease of useFX buttons: orange. Transport buttons: blue MIDI mode: green. Shift + Hotcue buttons: white.
-Bi-directional communication with Traktor using NHL (Native Hardware Library). The NHL protocol features resolution that is almot 4 times that of regular MIDI
-Calibration wizard precisely and individually defines mid-point of each knob
-The controller is pre-mapped by the makers of Traktor, with the option to freely customize any individual part. Tweak the defaults or reconfigure the mapping entirely to your preferred workflow
-Included powerful MIDI configuration software provides templates for various applications and gives access to advanced features such as encoder step size, note up/down encoder messages and more
-Fully hot-pluggable in Traktor. The X1 runs the instant you connect it to your computer with Traktor running. If the USB connection is accidentally disconnected Traktor continues to play unaffected. Simply plug the X1 back in and it's good to go again.
-Dimensions: 4.7" (120 mm) x 2" (52 mm) x 11.5" (294 mm)
-Power Supply via USB 2.0 interface, 5V 500mA bus power. No additional power supply or battery is needed

Bi-directional communication with Traktor via Native Instruments’ high resolution protocol gives the hardware a smoother and more precise feel compared to regular MIDI controllers. All buttons and knobs have been pre-mapped for optimum Traktor use but can be re-configured in any way you like. Traktor Kontrol X1 can also be used as a MIDI controller for any software as well as expanded with a second unit to control four decks and four FX units.

The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol X1's high-quality, back-lit LED buttons and push encoders are clearly arranged in distinct transport, browse, loop and effects sections. With enough room for convenient control of selecting, cueing, synching and pitching tracks, you always have the right music on hand. Eight knobs and eight buttons simultaneously control up to three effects on each deck, while the intuitive loop control section together with direct access to eight hotcues per track will have you remixing your music without interrupting the flow.

The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol X1 comes with a powerful selection of software to get you mixing and making music straight out of the box. The included software consists of the following:
-Traktor LE makes it easy to mix your digital music files. This convenient DJ software offers two playback decks, a 2-channel mixer, and more.
-If you produce your own music, the included Kore Player offers 600 MB of production-ready sounds for use in any sequencer.

The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol X1 stands out with exceptionally high quality workmanship. With meticulous attention to detail, the knobs and buttons have been designed for maximum accuracy and precision in both look and feel. With its slim, yet super-sturdy construction, the X1 is your companion in any DJing situation. The optional transport bag not only serves to securely transport the unit, but can be turned into a stand that puts X1 at exactly the same height as standard mixers and other DJ hardware.

Traktor Kontrol X1 features a total of 30 buttons, 4 push encoders and 8 knobs arranged in the following sections:
-Effects Section
-8 high resolution potentiometers and 8 buttons make up the effect section of Traktor Kontro. This section allows control of all the
parameters of 2 Traktor effect units simultaneously. In Chained mode, this means simultaneous control over 3 effects per deck. The
effects section buttons are programmed to give direct access to 3 of your favorite effect presets.
-Browse Section
-One push encoder per deck is dedicated to browsing through play lists and loading tracks. Simply turn the push encoder to find the track
you want, and push it to load it into the corresponding deck. Once the track is loaded the same encoders seek through the track, using
tempo sync'd beat jumps to remain in time.
-Loop Section
-This section allows for intuitive control of Traktor's loop function, giving clear visual feedback about the loop status via LEDs. The section
offers first level access to auto loops and manual loops as well as loop editing functions such as loop size and loop position, both coarse
and fine.
-Transport Section
-This section provides direct access to basic playback controls as well as shifted access to 8 secondary functions for each deck. All buttons
for industry standard workflows (Play, Sync, Cue + Cup) are located here. Switch to hotcue mode and you get another 16 buttons for
controlling the 8 hot cues or hot loops per track. Plus, the CUP button flashes in time with the deck's BPM as an added visual mix 

Vestax VCI-300

So I’ve had my Vestax VCI-300 DJ controller for three months now. I’ve got used to it in my home, DJed with it in busy nightclubs next to vinyl and CD DJs, and launched a new beach bar residency using it. All that and a couple of messy parties too.
I’ve now got a great view of its potential, its weaknesses and its strengths. This isn’t a full review (there are plenty of those around) – rather some real life thoughts after the first period of my ownership of this mid-range DJ controller.

My previous kit
I moved to the Vestax VCI-300 / Serato Itch combination from being a real, real purist Virtual DJ user; purist in so far as I didn’t even have a DJ controller!
Now I think Virtual DJ is a great piece of software. Not perfect (I’ve used it for five years, so I know) but great nonetheless. I had custom-mapped my Windows XP laptop keyboard right down the middle to duplicate a DJ controller, with the cursor keys operating as nudge and pitch shift, and keys for left/right deck volume, bass, mid, treble, kills, “everything back to 12 o’clock” etc.

Virtual DJ 6 software

More than that, I had loops, sample triggers, shortcuts for accessing files etc. In short, every time I thought of something new I’d like throughout that five years, I just found an unused key combination and added it.
As I also had an Echo Indigo DJ PCI-slot soundcard, it means I could literally turn up anywhere with just my laptop and some headphones and DJ right on – nothing else needed.

New computer, new DJ controller
I decided to make the switch because my old Sony Vaio was on the way out and I fancied a MacBook Pro (never looked back, but that’s another story). In my heart of hearts I missed the immediacy of some kind of control surface (I am a vinyl DJ at heart, but an MP3 DJ in my head).
night residency for a long time with just the laptop in a purist dance club.
Plus, not wanting to have a controller and a soundcard (which would have felt like a step backwards) I decided on the VCI-300 knowing it had a built-in soundcard and on the strength of the reviews, all the while knowing it was going to take a bit of getting used to after the tried-and-tested Virtual DJ setup. (Hell, I DJed a Saturday night residency for a long time with just the laptop in a purist dance club. It has earned its stripes…)

Serato Itch software

Setting it up and first use
Unsurprisingly, the Serato Itch software was a cinch to set up and use. All my music is organised on iTunes, and just like Virtual DJ, the software found my playlists immediately – no problem there.
However, it crashed every single time I plugged the VCI-300 in. I had to quit the software and reload it to get it to work. No biggie, but annoying.
Serato couldn’t solve this on their (very helpful) support desk, but the recent software update did. So – don’t know what that was, but it’s fixed now. All’s well that ends well.

First time with the Vestax VCI-300 in a club
I played my first set on the thing in a busy mainstream club, with a big birthday party in. There was a pop DJ holding the floor well when I arrived, and I got the usual “shit, I have to follow this guy  and there’s no way I’m playing Tina Turner, they’re getting some dance music, so I’d better make it work!” feeling.
As I balanced the thing on the top of the existing kit and plugged it in to the ancient house mixer, I suddenly realised that the simplicity that had left me feeling a bit cheated at first was now working in my favour.

It performed flawlessly; I was playing an old school set (’88-’92 house, breaks, a bit of indie), and mixing it better than I had imagined, looping vocals, using the key lock to throw tunes like The Stone Roses “Fools Gold” and Young MC’s “Know How” together flawlessly despite the wide tempo difference. I had lots of compliments and went home very satisfied with the freedom the thing gave me musically to get a bit drunk, jump around and not worry about hitting reasonable mixes every time.