Monthly Archives: November 2019

DJ Rachel’s VirtualDJ Update Review

By Rachel Lynch:

VirtualDJ has always struggled to sit at the “cool kids” table despite being the most used DJ software in the world. With 113 million downloads, it leads the industry with the lowest crash ratio among all programs and is continually pushing boundaries with innovation. Most agree the brand is plagued with an “amateur” stigma; however, VirtualDJ 2020 has come out with its gloves off and is commanding the respect it deserves. With its recent makeover, DJs who once scoffed at the program are now giving it a harder look. For the past 20 years, no DJ software has come close to the reliability and bold features of VirtualDJ, and this update is bringing it back to the top where it belongs.

Vocal critics felt previous versions were unsophisticated and dated, typecasting it as “mobile DJ only” software. While this couldn’t be farther from the truth, the refined and flatter interface challenges this stereotype head-on. VirtualDJ 2020 has visually matured, addressing one of its most considerable shortcomings. Gone are the gaudy graphics and skeuomorphic designs. Everything now is sexier and elegant with muted iconic red and blue decks along with four streamlined default skins. Users can easily choose to display what is crucial to their workflow by selecting which interface (Starter, Essentials, Pro, and Performance) works best for them. Additionally, a DJ can customize any interface with an abundance of choices to make their experience personalized. The update is like buying a new pair of shoes that already feel broken in. Long term users will feel right at home while the newbies will learn and love the updated look. The modernized skins offer the same utility you have come to expect from VirtualDJ but in a more professional layout.

This update also takes mixing to a new level with its integration of Beatport LINK and Advanced Harmonic Mixing feature. To start, DJs can refine their sets with the ability to play multiple tracks at the same time in compatible harmony. This means the listener won’t have to hear DJ blends that sound like someone is smashing random keys on a piano. VirtualDJ 2020 allows the user to autocorrect the opposing deck (if mismatched) within one semitone (up or down) without distorting or affecting the fidelity of a track in an obvious way. As a result, DJs can expand their creativity and song sections to choices that otherwise wouldn’t be compatible. Also, VirtualDj has expanded its streaming arsenal with the addition of the flagship service Beatport LINK. With over seven million tracks available and curated playlists, DJs now have an additional music platform to rock events from start to finish. Sketchy Wifi? No worry. Beatport LINK PRO ($39.99/mo) and PRO+ (59.99/mo) provide limited offline “locker” storage for tracks to be accessed should the internet connection fail. This integration is an excellent addition for those needing a variety of music on the fly.

It is no secret that VirtualDJ is known for taking risks on unique features before other programs adopt them. In the most recent update, Event DJs now have even more flexibility and freedom to interact with their guests and inject personalization with ease. The Event Scheduler in a revolutionary timeline management tool that allows the user to manually automate VirtualDJ functions in sequential order by writing mini bits of script (sounds scary, but it is super easy). A DJ can now schedule an array of actions to happen at specified times as needed throughout an event. Here are a few examples of how someone might use this new feature. A DJ can schedule a cocktail hour playlist to start 6:00 PM (in a different location) while they are packing up their ceremony rig. There is no need for the DJ to rush over to cocktail hour to start the music since the Event Scheduler starts the music on time every time. A DJ might choose to delay the start of a song while they walk out onto the dance floor to make an announcement, or a business can use a playlist with intermittent scheduled commercials. On New Year’s Eve, a sequenced countdown can be scheduled with complete accuracy. The only limitations are the DJs imagination.

VirtualDJ 2020 is designed to cater to every type of DJ out there and will continue to push boundaries as the leader in innovation. With its sleek interface and abundance of powerful features, its well on its way to winning over the skeptics.  The grownup design is intuitive and intelligent. If you haven’t updated yet, make the jump. Their world-class programmers have always focused on the DJ and their individual needs and this 2020 update continues with that tradition in offering features and updates that every DJ should be excited about.

 

Fun, creative, and ambitious, DJ Rachel is making her mark as one of the top mobile DJs in the tri-state area. Her diversity as a DJ allows her to play at events that include MetLife Stadium (for the New York Jets) and serve as opening act for George Clinton Parliament Funkadelic and Gloria Gaynor. For more info visit: facebook.com/DJRachelRLynch

Pioneer’s XDJ-XZ: Pro all-in-one DJ system for rekordbox and Serato DJ Pro

From Pioneer:

(TORRANCE, CA) November 12, 2019: Looking for a professional setup for events, a bar or club, or your private studio? The XDJ-XZ is perfect for every scenario. With flexible media support and a layout inherited directly from our club-standard gear, playing on our new all-in-one DJ system feels exactly like you’re using the CDJ-2000NXS2 and DJM-900NXS2. A host of advanced features are right at your fingertips in this robust unit which produces high-quality sound.

Choose whether you want to play rekordbox-analyzed tracks from USB drives via channels 1 and 2 on the XDJ-XZ or connect your laptop and use rekordbox dj or even Link Export mode. With two extra channels, you can mix in audio from external sources like turntables, while Pro DJ Link enables you to browse tracks from CDJs via the 7-inch touch screen on the XDJ-XZ and sync them with your mix. Soon, you’ll even be able to perform with Serato DJ Pro, when compatibility for the software becomes available via a firmware update in early 2020. Want to play back-to-back? Three USB inputs (type A x 2, type B x 1) make this, and DJ changeovers, a breeze.

Using the 3-band EQ on the master output, you can easily tune your sound so it’s optimized for each environment you perform in. If you’re playing gigs with MCs, two separate mic inputs with independent 3-band EQs give you total flexibility and, when you switch on the Feedback Reducer feature, it’ll automatically reduce any “howling” sounds accidentally caused by the mic.

Get creative and animate your sets with 14 professional Beat FX and 6 Sound Color FX taken straight from the DJM-900NXS2 mixer, and trigger software-specific features using the 16 multicolored Performance Pads (8 per deck).

The XDJ-XZ is available now at a MAP of $2,299. Watch the introduction video or find out more about the all-in-one DJ system.

To use the XDJ-XZ with rekordbox dj, update to the latest version of the softwareand activate the included license key. The all-in-one DJ system also supports rekordboxdvs (license available separately).From early 2020, you’ll be able to unlock Serato DJ Pro by plugging the XDJ-XZ into a PC/Mac running the software and, from then, the unit will support Serato DVS (license available separately).

KEY FEATURES OF THE XDJ-XZ

  1. Advanced features and user experience from NXS2 setup for pro performances

Full-size jog wheels make mixing and scratching feel just like you’re using the CDJ-2000NXS2. And, thanks to On Jog Display, you can keep an eye on important track information via the color screen in the center of each one. All the knobs and controls on the XDJ-XZ are arranged in the same way as those on the NXS2 setup too. Mix with four channels and add texture to your performances with all 14 Beat FX, plus the 6 Sound Color FX, from the DJM-900NXS2.

  1. Support for various media and different performance styles

The XDJ-XZ gives you the freedom to play the way you want. Plug in USB drives loaded with rekordbox-analyzed tracks or connect your PC/Mac to use our professional performance application, rekordbox dj. You can even play tracks directly from your rekordbox library via Link Export mode, so you don’t need to export playlists from your laptop to USB drives. Want to introduce audio from external sources? Connect turntables, samplers, smartphones, and more, to channels 3 and 4. And if you want to perform with Serato DJ Pro, you’ll be able to do this following a firmware update, coming early 2020.

  1. High-quality sound and multiple EQs

Rock your crowd with crystal-clear audio. You can fine-tune your whole mix using the 3-band EQ on the master output and, with 3-band EQs on each of the mic inputs, it’s easy to adjust the sound of either MC. Worried about feedback? Switch on the Feedback Reducer feature and it’ll automatically lessen the “howling” frequency if it occurs.

  1. Pro DJ Link seamlessly syncs external equipment for expanded creative options

The XDJ-XZ is the first all-in-one DJ system to support Pro DJ Link. This means you can connect external equipment such as CDJs to channels 3 and 4 and sync audio to your mix. Use the screen on the XDJ-XZ or the one on the CDJ to browse tracks on USB drives connected to either unit.

  1. Touch screen and color On Jog Display

Use the 7-inch LCD touch screen and the color On Jog Display in the center of each jog wheel to keep an eye on waveforms, Hot Cues, BPM, and more. With so much visual information available, you can focus on your performance and keep your eyes off your laptop when you’re performing with rekordbox dj or Serato DJ Pro (coming early 2020).

  1. Other features
  • Three USB inputs (two top-loading for USB devices and one laptop connection) for smooth back-to-back performances and DJ handovers
  • 16 multicolored Performance Pads (8 per deck)
  • Mic input circuit produces clear audio, even with high input level
  • Robust, high-quality design
  • Single unit with grab handles for easy carrying and setup

XDJ-XZ specifications

Software rekordbox dj

Serato DJ Pro (coming in early 2020)

Frequency Response 20 Hz to 20 kHz (USB, LINE, AUX, MIC)
S/N Ratio

 

114 dB (USB)

103 dB (LINE)

90 dB (PHONO)

96 dB (AUX-LINE), 90 dB (AUX-PORTABLE)

81 dB (MIC)

Total Harmonic Distortion

 

0.003% (USB)

0.005% (LINE)

0.017% (PHONO)

Input/Output Terminals

 

 

Inputs LINE x 2 (RCA)

PHONO x 2 (RCA)

AUX x 1 (RCA)

MIC x 2 (XLR & 1/4-inch TRS jack)

Outputs MASTER x 2 (XLR x 1, RCA x 1)

BOOTH x 1 (1/4-inch TRS jack)

PHONES x 2 (1/4-inch stereo phone jack x 1,

3.5-mm stereo mini jack x 1)

SEND x 1 (1/4-inch TS jack)

USB USB (Type A, 5 V/1 A) x 2

USB (Type B) x 1

Others LINK x 3 (LAN 100Base-TX)
Maximum Dimensions (W x D x H) 878.0 x 466.1 x 118.4 mm / 34.6 x 18.4 x 4.7 in.
Weight 13.0 kg / 28.7 lb
Accessories Power cord

USB cable

Operating instructions (Quick Start Guide)

Software license notice

rekordbox dj license key card

rekordbox dj system requirements

Compatible OS Mac macOS Catalina 10.15 (updated to the latest version)

macOS Mojave 10.14 (updated to the latest version)

macOS High Sierra 10.13 (updated to the latest version)

macOS Sierra 10.12 (updated to the latest version)

Windows Windows® 10, 8.1, 7 (the latest service pack)
CPU Intel® processor Core™ i7, i5, i3
Memory 4GB or more of RAM

 

* Disclaimer: Specifications and price are subject to change.

* rekordbox is a registered trademark of Pioneer DJ Corporation.

* Serato DJ Pro and Serato DJ are registered trademarks of Serato Limited.

* Mac and macOS are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

* Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and other countries.

* Intel and Intel Core are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and other countries.

* The names of companies, product names, and technology names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.

 

About Pioneer DJ

Pioneer DJ Americas, Inc. is the subsidiary of Pioneer DJ Corporation responsible for sales and marketing in North, Central, and South America. For more than 20 years, Pioneer DJ has been a market leader in the design and production of innovative DJ equipment and software. The company works closely with DJs and clubs to deliver next generation products that inspire and shape the global dance music community and has recently launched a new range of musical instruments for production and live performances. Its portfolio includes brands such as TORAIZ, Pioneer Professional Audio and Pioneer DJ Radio, as well as social platforms KUVO and DJsounds. Pioneer DJ Corporation is a privately held company headquartered in Yokohama, Japan. The company is led by President and CEO Akio Moriwaki and Executive Vice President Yoshinori Kataoka.

 

Website: http://www.pioneerdj.com/

Stay up to date: http://www.pioneerdj.com/news

 

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