Native Instruments has started to tour the new S4 KONTROL, Native’s own DJ controller for their Traktor DJ software. Yesterday the dutch importer Amptec gave an exhibition of this much anticipated controller at Bax-Shop in the Netherlands. Gearjunkies was invited to get a first ‘hands-on’ look at this new DJ controller from Native Instruments.
These are the releases we have encountered this week on the Loops and Samples front. Just like the quality of the audio software we use these days the quality of the content we use (loops and samples) equally matches the high standards of this software. Below is this weeks selection.
The at the MusikMesse of this year announced CTRL-ONE and CTRL-SIX controllers by Gemini have received their final ‘facelift’ and are now shipping with VirtualDJ LE software. Since the advent of the “laptop revolution” in the DJ realm, DJs have had to struggle to find a controller to work with the DJ software that gives them the feel of their traditional decks and turntables. Gemini set out to make these controllers just for DJs, giving them a familiar interface along with their favorite playback, mixer, and song-shaping tools.
Pioneer introduces an updated version of the well-loved HDJ-1000 DJ headphones in two new colours. Now offering a more comfortable fit, easier low-range listening and available only in black or gold. The HDJ-1000 Limited offer the exceptional sound quality, lightweight design and futuristic look of the widely used HDJ-1000. But their new, innovative features deliver the next level in professional DJ headphones.
The new 4midiloop controller is a collaboration between FADERFOX and Glanzmann Digital DJ Solutions. It is the first controller which allows an entire and simultaneous control over four decks and four Effect-Slots in Traktor Pro. This ability is achieved by over 600 electronic components, equipped with the world’s best cross and line fader from Eclectic Breaks (Pro X Fade). Only 166 keys and almost the same number of Leds allow simultaneous control over nearly all of the operations in Traktor Pro as well as indicating all the important visual feedback signals of the controller’s software. Each device has a control for every function, which makes operating a mix of four decks most enjoyable. The controller attracts, not only by ergonomics and functionality but also with its revolutionary stylish light-aluminium body. 4midiloop is great new hardware for ambitious DJs, created to provide excitement and inspiration for many years to come.
These are the releases we have encountered this week on the Loops and Samples front. Just like the quality of the audio software we use these days the quality of the content we use (loops and samples) equally matches the high standards of this software. Below is this weeks selection.
Akai Professional, the name synonymous with music production, announces the SynthStation25 keyboard controller and the SynthStation music production app, both for iPhone and iPod Touch. Akai Pro will unveil the SynthStation25 and SynthStation app at the 2010 Winter NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA, January 14–17.
Now and the coming months several big electronics manufacturers are releasing their own touch tablets, all trying to get a piece of the Apple cake. Over the past two, three years the role of the iPhone and, recently, the iPad has matured from gadget to serious tool in a studio or live performance environment. Looking at the first music apps for the iPhone, I personally have to admit, I thought this was just a temporary fad, craze. But with the iPad, and because of its larger format, the HD apps are maturing fast and deserve to be taken seriously.
Stanton, an industry leader in the design and manufacture of professional audio products for DJs, is introducing the new M.203 entry-level 2-channel mixer. The M.203 breaks all barriers in terms of what DJ’s have come to expect in its price class. The clean and intuitive layout was designed by working DJs with the goal of giving aspiring DJs a comfortable layout with a minimum of fuss – yet even experienced pros will be able to appreciate the robust feature set of the M.203.
Native Instruments just announced that TRAKTOR KONTROL S4, its first integrated DJ system, will be in stores beginning November 1st. It will be available for a suggested retail price of $999 / 899 EUR, with the optional flightcase being available for $189 / 169 EUR. Pre-orders for TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 are also now accepted in the NI Online Shop.
Denon DJ, a leading manufacturer of premium-grade DJ equipment, introduces the DN-MC6000 Mixer and MIDI Controller, a four-channel/eight-source standalone digital DJ mixer with MIDI interface and internal sound card. With an astounding amount of features, real-time channel matrix operation, slim tabletop design, state-of-the-art solid steel chassis construction and quality sound, the DN-MC6000 is one of Denon DJ’s flagship controllers. Also acting as an audio interface (with a 2 in/2out stereo soundcard included), the DN-MC6000, when paired with the user’s software of choice, is a turnkey control solution for mobile DJs and party DJs, and a clear centerpiece to any DJ rig.
Sugar Factory, 365Media, Ableton and Media Satellite are teaming up to present Ableton Live workshops during the Amsterdam Dance Event. Musicians, DJs, producers or those just getting started will all benefit.
The world of professional touch controllers for Ableton Live is about to heat up! Liine are very happy to welcome Stuart Fisher, known as ST8 and responsible for LiveControl, into the Liine family. As key players from two distinct approaches to Ableton Live touch controllers, this partnership promises some very exciting developments just around the corner.
Vestax were one of the few manufacturers who managed to keep a lit on new products and surprised us with several new goodies and updates. Without any pre-release leaking onto the internet, Vestax introduced a new small midi controller, Mark IV for their PMC05Pro mixers, and Mark II for the VCI-100 controller.
The Xone:DB4 is a truly ground-breaking mixer and by far the most advanced product that A&H have designed. Every feature has been meticulously researched with a view to offering DJs ultimate creativity. Based on the iLive pro-touring FX system, they developed FX algorithms with BPM conscious parameters and tight spectral control, customised to perfectly fit the DJ environment.