The New Pioneer DJM-450 2 Channel Mixer

 

With features and design inherited from the DJM-900NXS2, this 2-channel mixer is ideal to partner with any of our multiplayers or turntables. The Magvel fader combined with smooth EQ and channel fader curves give an assured feel to mixing. Sound Colour FX and Beat FX with parameter control open up new creative possibilities. And thanks to the 64-bit digital signal processer you’ll enjoy warm, high-quality audio from both analogue and digital sound sources.

The DJM-450 also comes bundled with licence keys for rekordbox dj and rekordbox dvs, so you can DJ with tracks stored on your PC/Mac when using turntables and our control vinyl (available separately).

KEY FEATURES

  • PROFESSIONAL LAYOUT

    Mixing on the DJM-450 feels instinctive thanks to the layout design, which inherits traits from the DJM-900NXS2 professional mixer.

  • SMOOTHER MIXING

    The EQ lets you balance the high, mid and low frequencies on every channel. Choose your preferred EQ level or use the isolator to totally eliminate each EQ band for the perfect mix.

  • ROBUST FADERS

    Our robust Magvel Faders ensure smooth control over long-term use. Two metal shafts support the fader knobs, while the contact-free magnetic system is designed to endure millions of performances.

  • REKORDBOX DJ BUNDLED

    You get a free rekordbox dj licence key bundled with this mixer. Simply activate your licence key for our DJ software, connect to your computer via USB, and start DJing.

  • High-quality sound

    Whether you’re playing from digital or analogue sound sources, a warm, high-quality sound is created by the 64-bit digital signal processor using dithering technology.

  • Independent Send/Return

    Use built-in FX and external FX from mobile apps at the same time. Simply connect your smartphone or tablet via USB to engage instrument and FX apps.

  • Flexible connectivity

    The XLR terminal and gold-plated RCAs deliver premium sound quality on all connections. And the signal GND terminal easily attaches ground wires from analogue turntables.

  • Independent MIC section

    Use a microphone and the AUX input at the same time.

    Main Features

    DVS Control

    		 rekordbox dvs

    Included Software

    Specifications

    Width

    		 9.06 in

    Height

    		 4.25 in

    Depth

    		 12.6 in

    Frequency Range

    		 20 – 20,000 Hz

    Sampling Rate

    		 48 kHz

    A/D Converter

    		 24 bit

    D/A Converter

    		 24 bit

    S/N Ratio Line

    		 94 dB

    Distortion

    		 < 0.005 % (LINE)

    Channels

    EQ/ISO

    		 3 band

    EQ/ISO Range

    		 Built-in, switchable 3-band equaliser: -26 dB ~ +6 dB / 3-band isolator: -∞ ~ +6 dB

    Performance Control

    Channels

    		 2

    Sound Color FX
    • Dub Echo
    • Sweep
    • Noise
    • Filter

    Beat FX
    • Delay
    • Echo
    • Spiral
    • Reverb
    • Trans
    • Flanger
    • Pitch
    • Roll

    Crossfader

    Crossfader Type

    		 Magvel Fader

    Mic

    Mic Connection

    		 1/4-inch TRS Jack

    Terminals

    Inputs
    • 3 LINE (RCA)
    • 2 PHONO (RCA)
    • 1 MIC (1/4 inch Jack)

    Outputs
    • 1 MASTER (XLR)
    • 1 MASTER (RCA)
    • 2 HEADPHONE MONITOR (1/4 inch Jack, mini-jack)

    USB
    • 1 USB B port
    • 1 USB A port

    Got more questions? Hit Pioneer up at www.pioneerdj.com

4 Things No One Misses About DJing (and one thing you should!)

By Glen Ervin:

Crack a cold one with my dad and he’d inevitably fall into telling you how the Designated Hitter Rule and the equally un-American embrace of expansion teams ruined baseball.

Like father, like son.

Join me for a brew and odds are you’ll hear me go grumpy old man about my favorite pastime, too. My favorite go-to, inevitably: “DJing was better in the day.”

But was it really?

Decide for yourself. Let’s take off the rose-colored beer goggles for a look back at a few things I suspect no one much misses — and the one thing we may all have to say goodbye to forever.

Shopping for music – While I didn’t have to walk 15 miles uphill both ways to buy music when I was kid, I did have to make a 90-mile pilgrimage to the bright lights and big bins of Orlando’s Orange Avenue for the “good stuff.” It was there I would spend entire afternoons combing through albums, along with other preternaturally pale music nerds, some who are still friends today — none of who would trade the ability to download the newest releases from the comfort of their favorite chair for days gone by.

FUN FACT: In 1985 a typical album was $9.98. That’s $22.42 in 2016 dollars.

Lugging Crates – I never weighed a crate of vinyl, but if I had to guess I’d say it fell somewhere between    ‘are you kidding me’ and ‘call 911.‘ On the plus side, gravity did inspire me to pare my options down to well-planned playlists, the downside of which was that I could never plan for everything. Given my druthers (and my age) I much prefer the unbearable lightness of my laptop.

 Upgrading Formats – If my research is correct, and it should be because I didn’t do any, in the 1990s the record labels made approximately a bazillion dollars getting us to repurchase the same music we bought on vinyl on “indestructible” compact discs. The only thing I miss about that is my money.

 Vinyl – Here’s a dirty little secret you won’t see on the “Real DJs Spin Vinyl” threads spreading like Zika on social media these days: Even the best cared for vinyl will crackle and pop after repeated use. And as for vinyl sounding “better,” the lossless CD-quality files reputable DJ pools offer provide the same high-res 24-bit audio the artist hears upon studio playback. If warmer sounding is what you’re looking for, a few filters, a little mid-range boost and analog speakers are all it takes. Nostalgia does not equal great sound, just nostalgic sound.

The Sanctity of the DJ Booth – Not so long ago audiences expected a DJ to DJ. Just as you wouldn’t tell a plumber how to fix a faucet or your barber how to cut hair, you wouldn’t think of walking into a club and telling the DJ how to do his highly specialized job. The mere fact that he was at that club said it all: You went to that club to hear that DJ.

I miss that.

After being turned out to pasture following a 16-year club residency, Glen Ervin finds himself gainfully employed as Promo Only sales manager, media consultant and staff writer.

How to fix a speaker with Gaff Tape and Toilet Paper?

By Tony Fernandez:

For those who didn’t know, I was presenting a mixing seminar at the DJ Expo two weeks ago.

I decided to bring in my FULL sound rig because, well, as a working DJ, I wanted to ensure the attendants got a nice full sound experience. The breakout meeting room we were in did have in-house sound, but it was pretty anemic.

So the day of the seminar, I’m moving in my rig. As I unload from my truck, I pick up one of my tops and I hear / feel a rattle that wasn’t there before, nor should be there in the first place…

I move all my gear to the back of the house / service hall area, right behind where I was going to present. I set up a speaker triage center and…

With my Leatherman tool I was able to remove the horn lens and discovered that the driver attached to the horn snapped off. So after I cleaned my under ware (no pun intended, but yeah, I was a little stressed), I had to come up with a plan….

So: I married the driver back onto the lens and broke out the Gaff Tape. After I applied a very creative and judicious amount, I was able to attach, but not secure, the driver to the horn lens once I took the assembly go horizontal. There was too much weight and not enough support…

I look in the speaker box cavity where the horn assembly should go and I noticed that there were some foam blocks in there for dampening and support. However there wasn’t enough…

So: I go into the bathroom to splash some water on my face and gather my thoughts and decide to use some paper towels to build up the cavity and add support. Except, there ae NO paper towels because the paper towels dispensers are empty; just a litany of air dryers. I just start to pace in the men’s room… (Thank goodness no one was in there….) and a stall is open.

 

I see the TP. I take a roll. I wasn’t a beast; I did leave one as there was an extra roll.

So: I go back to my triage area and start stuffing the speaker cavity with TP. I was able to fill the cavity with enough to support the weight of the driver and re-install the driver to the speaker box.

Seminar started and sound was on point. Even had people asking what system I was using.

Moral of the story: Keep calm and rely on the experience that got you there. And yeah, always have Gaff Tape.

Thanks to my VA peeps for helping me set up and load out. Couldn’t have done it without their help.
It takes a village to do a seminar. And Gaff Tape with TP.

 

Based out of Richmond, VA, DJ Tony Fernandez has been a DJ, Remixer, Producer, Musical Soothsayer and Audio Gear Oracle since 1980. Find him on facebook. Email djtonytf@gmail.com

Digital Edge: Introducing Pioneer’s XDJ-1000MK2 Multiplayer

Pioneer DJ has just announced it has updated one of its popular USB-only multiplayers to create the XDJ-1000MK2. The new player inherits even more features from the club-standard CDJ-2000NXS2, including its 7-inch full-color high-resolution touch screen, enhanced track browsing functionality, and support for playing high-quality FLAC and ALAC files. Quickly finding the perfect track to play next is easy thanks to Track Filter, which filters tracks by BPM and key, and the new Matching feature which displays suitable tracks you’ve previously tagged in rekordbox when they’re mixed with the track that’s currently playing.

XDJ-1000MK2_system_front_DDJ-SP1_low_0708-848x486

The XDJ-1000MK2 also retains key features from before. You can use the Qwerty touch-screen keyboard to search for keywords, then scroll through results on-screen or with the large rotary dial. You can analyze and prepare your tracks in rekordbox and the screen will display at-a-glance information such as Wave Zoom, Beat Counter, Phase Meter and Key Analysis – as well as provide instant access to your pre-prepared cues, loops and customized rekordbox settings. Plus, you can color-code your USB devices and the illuminated USB port will reflect that color, so you instantly know what’s on each device.

 

To add even more creativity and variety to your performances, you can connect the DDJ-SP1 controller (sold separately) and use its large Performance Pads for tactile control of many of the new or improved features on the XDJ-1000MK2, including its eight Hot Cues.

 

The XDJ-1000MK2 will be available in the U.S. and Canada from September 2016, with a retail price of $1,199.00.

 

Watch the XDJ-1000MK2 introduction video.

Learn more about the XDJ-1000MK2.

Learn more about the rekordbox family.

 

 

 

KEY FEATURES OF THE XDJ-1000MK2

 

  1. CDJ-style design

The XDJ-1000MK2 handles just like the club-standard CDJ-2000NXS2. Large jog wheels and a 7-inch color touch screen give you intuitive control over your mix.

 

  1. High-quality files supported among various formats

FLAC and ALAC files are now supported for high-quality sound, as well as MP3, AAC, WAV and AIFF files. You can play tracks prepared in rekordbox directly from your USB storage devices, or from your laptop by using rekordbox, or from your smartphone/iPhone or tablet by using rekordbox mobile for Android or iOS.

 

  1. High-resolution color LCD touch screen

Finding your next track on the XDJ-1000MK2 comes naturally thanks to the new high-resolution touch screen taken from the CDJ-2000NXS2. The screen displays large RGB waveforms and includes two new browsing features, Matching and Track Filter.

 

Browsing features:

  • Matching: Audition tracks in rekordbox before your performance and mark the ones that mix well together. When playing marked tracks in your set, the XDJ-1000MK2 suggests matched tracks to play next.
  • Track Filter: Refine your track search by filtering tracks by rekordbox information such as My Tag, as well as BPM and Key. Touch the screen and you can easily find related tracks to fit into your performance.
  • Search: Bring up the Qwerty keyboard on the touch screen to search for tracks quickly by name or keyword.

 

 

  1. Expanded performance features

Unleash your creativity using a number of features inherited from the CDJ-2000NXS2.

 

  • Hot Cues: Instantly start playback at a pre-set point. Up to eight Hot Cues can be set in advance to give you even more choice in the mix.
  • Quantize: Cue and loop points on tracks that have been beat-analyzed in rekordbox and they will automatically set in time with the track you’re playing. You can fine-tune the Quantize value even more accurately for total control.
  • MIDI controller interface: Connect the DDJ-SP1 controller with a USB cable for tactile control of numerous features of the XDJ-1000MK2, including Hot Cues, auto loops and Slip Mode. One DDJ-SP1 can control up to four XDJ multiplayers using Pro DJ Link.

 

  1. Pro DJ Link

Pro DJ Link lets you play tracks from one USB device across up to four multiplayers and unlocks a host of information and features.

 

  • Link Export: Connect your laptop using a USB or LAN cable to play tracks directly from your rekordbox library instead of using a USB device.
  • Beat Count and Phase Meter: Use rekordbox to mark key points on a track, and Beat Count will count down the beats to them from up to 64 bars away. Phase Meter shows the position of the beat in the bar, so you can compare the phase of each player with the master deck at a glance.
  • Beat Sync: Hit the Beat Sync button and you can align the beat positions and BPMs of tracks that have been beat-analyzed in rekordbox, playing on two multiplayers connected by Pro DJ Link.

 

  1. rekordbox ready

Use rekordbox to manage and prepare your tracks on your PC/Mac, tablet, smartphone or iPhone and use the XDJ-1000MK2’s features for creative performances on the fly.

 

  1. High-quality audio

The XDJ-1000MK2 inherits high-quality audio design from the CDJ-2000NXS2. Along with analog output terminals, a digital output sends audio without degradation, and the power supply circuit for analog audio is completely separate from the digital circuit, reducing unwanted noise.

 

  1. Other features
  • Shortcut button: Instantly switch to Browse mode or bring up My Settings.
  • Multi-colored wave display and Wave Zoom: Visually shows entire tracks from rekordbox.
  • Memory Cues: Check comments on Memory Cues that you’ve pre-set in rekordbox.
  • My Settings: Prepare your system’s setting preferences in rekordbox and instantly switch to your own settings during DJ changeovers in the booth.
  • Beat Jump: Instantly jump backwards or forwards 1, 2 or 4 beats from the current playback position.
  • Multi-colored USB port: Color-code your USB devices in rekordbox (e.g. red for techno or blue for drum & bass) and the light around the USB port will reflect that setting for ease of identification in the booth.
  • MIDI/HID control: Use the XDJ-1000MK2 with our performance application, rekordbox dj.

 

 

XDJ-1000MK2 SPECIFICATIONS

 

Playable media                       ：iPhone/iPad/iPod touch, Android phone, etc.

USB storage devices (flash memory/HDD, etc.): PC / Mac

Playable files               ：MP3 (Sampling rate: 32/44.1/48 kHz, Bit depth: 16-bit), AAC (Sampling rate: 16/22.05/24/32/44.1/48 kHz, Bit depth: 16-bit) WAV, AIFF, FLAC, Apple Lossless (Sampling rate: 44.1/48 kHz, Bit depth: 16/24-bit)

* rekordbox for iPhone: MP3 and AAC only

 

USB storage support file systems          ：FAT, FAT32, HFS+

Frequency response     ：4 Hz ～ 20 kHz

S/N ratio                      ：115 dB or more

Total harmonic

distortion                      ：0.003% or less

USB ports                     ：USB (Type A) ×１, USB (Type B) ×１

Audio output ports       ：AUDIO OUT (RCA) ×１, DIGITAL OUT（COAXIAL）× 1

Other ports                   ：LAN（100Base-TX）× 1

Audio output voltage   ：2.0 Vrms

Power requirements     ：AC 110～240 V (50 Hz/60 Hz)

Power consumption     ：30 W

Max external dimension

(W x D x H)                   ：305.0 × 382.5 × 110.0 mm (12.0 x 15.1 x 4.3 mm)

Weight                         ：3.7 kg (8.2 lbs)

 

rekordbox MINIMUM SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

OS（Windows）           ：Windows 10, 8.1, 7 (The latest service pack)

OS（Mac）                 ：Mac OS X 10.11, 10.10, 10.9（Updated to the latest version）

CPU                             ：IntelⓇ processor CoreTM i7, i5, i3

IntelⓇ processor CoreTM 2 Duo 2.0 GHz or above

Memory                       ：4GB or more of RAM

Hard Drive                    ：250MB or more of free space

(not including space for storing music files, etc.)

Display resolution        ：Resolution of 1280 x 768 or greater

 

 

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. Its portfolio includes brands such as Pioneer Professional Audio and Pioneer DJ Radio, rekordbox dj software, as well as social platforms KUVO and DJsounds. Pioneer DJ Corporation is a privately held company headquartered in Yokohama, Japan.

 

Website: www.pioneerdj.com

Pioneer PLX-500 Turntable

Vinyl Revolution: Introducing the PLX-500 –

Direct Drive Turntable for DJs and Vinyl Lovers

 Torrance, CA (August 3, 2016): Extending the family of Pioneer DJ’s turntable models, we’re releasing a new direct drive turntable to offer a more versatile vinyl solution for DJing and leisurely listening at a competitive price. The PLX-500 is ready to use straight out of the box thanks to its line output, which lets users plug it into their sound system or powered speakers with no need for an external amplifier.

Drawing on our heritage in making high-quality players and turntables, the PLX-500 inherits the layout of the PLX-1000 professional turntable and produces warm, clear analog sound. The high-torque deck is suitable for scratching and comes with everything DJs need, including a cartridge, stylus and slipmat; and its USB out means users can easily make high-quality digital recordings of their vinyl collection in our free rekordbox software. Users can use the PLX-500 and the rekordbox dvs Plus Pack to play and scratch digital files when combining them with a compatible DJM mixer and the RB-VS1-K Control Vinyl. DJs can also choose between the black (PLX-500-K) and white (PLX-500-W) versions to match their set-up or the design of their home.

 The PLX-500-K and PLX-500-W will be available in the U.S. and Canada from September 2016, with a retail price of $349.00.

Watch the PLX-500 introduction video.

Learn more about the PLX-500

KEY FEATURES OF THE PLX-500

 

  1. High-quality analog vinyl sound

The PLX-500 series inherits design features from the PLX-1000 professional turntable to produce the high-quality sound expected from vinyl. The shortest possible audio routing from the stylus to the outputs reduces distortion, and the phono and line outputs mean users can connect directly to their sound system or powered speakers to enjoy warm sound.

 

  1. Easy digital recording

A built-in USB output means you can record your vinyl collection to high-quality digital WAV files by simply connecting the PLX-500 to your PC or Mac. Digitizing tracks is easy using our free rekordbox application. Once tracks are in the rekordbox collection, users can play them using the PLX-500 and a rekordbox dvs set-up, on a DDJ controller, or on CDJs via USB. Users can also enjoy them on their mobile devices whenever they want.

 

Using its audio analysis technology, rekordbox detects the silence between tracks and creates a separate file in your collection for each one, so you can just press play and record a whole album from an analogue source to individual tracks without resetting the recording in between songs. After you’ve finished recording you can name and tag all your new tracks.

 

How to record your vinyl to high-quality digital files:

  1. Connect the PLX-500 to your computer with a USB cable.
  2. Open our free rekordbox application (version 4.2.1).
  3. Click the record button in the software and it enters Record Standby mode.
  4. Press play on the PLX-500. rekordbox begins recording when the music starts.
  5. When you’ve finished recording, press stop. A window opens in rekordbox where you can enter information for each track including name and artist. The tracks then appear in your rekordbox collection and you can search for them by name, artist etc.

 

  1. High-torque direct drive turntable for DJ performances and rekordbox dvs

The high-torque, direct drive PLX-500 is ideal for mixing and scratching. Users can also combine it with the rekordbox dvs Plus Pack to play and perform with their digital files when using a compatible DJM mixer and the RB-VS1-K Control Vinyl (available separately).

 

  1. Dust cover with record sleeve stand

Enjoy the vinyl sound of your records and their artwork at the same time thanks to the dust cover that incorporates a stand for displaying record sleeves when open.

 

  1. Layout inherited from the PLX-1000 professional turntable

The PLX-500 inherits its slick design from the professional PLX-1000 turntable, and users can choose between the black (PLX-500-K) and white (PLX-500-W) versions to match the color of their gear or the interior of their home.

How to use rekordbox dvs:

Buy the RB-VS1-K Control Vinyl from a Pioneer DJ authorized dealer or directly from pioneerdj.com (limited countries only). Visit rekordbox.com to download the latest version of rekordbox for free, then buy rekordbox dj ($129.00) and rekordbox dvs ($99.00) license keys. Alternatively, you can subscribe to rekordbox dj for $9.90 per month and get rekordbox dvs as part of your subscription plan. Learn more about rekordbox dvs.

 The silver PC-HS01-S headshell that is included with the PLX-500 will be available to buy separately from December 2016 in three color options. Choose from the PC-HS01-K (black), PC-HS01-S (silver) and PC-HS01-N (gold) to complement the look of your set-up. Our PC-X10 cartridge or other cartridges can be attached to the headshells (all will be sold separately).

PLX-500 SPECIFICATIONS

Power Requirements AC 100 V, 50 Hz/60 Hz
Power Consumption 11 W
Unit Weight 10.7 kg (23.6 lbs)
Maximum Dimensions

（W×H×D）

 450 mm x 159 mm x 367 mm (17.7 in x 6.3 in x 14.4 in)
Output RCA × 1, USB (type B)
TURNTABLE
Drive Method Servo type direct drive
Motor 3-phase brushless DC motor
Braking System Electronic brake
Rotation Speed 33 1/3 rpm, 45 rpm, 78 rpm
Rotation Speed Adjustment Range ±8%
Wow and Flutter 0.15% or less WRMS
S/N Ratio 50 dB or above
Turntable Aluminium die-casting Diameter: 332 mm
Starting Torque 1.6 kgf/cm or more
Start Time Within 1 second (at 33 1/3 rpm)
TONEARM
Arm Type Universal type S-shape tone arm, gimbal-supported type bearing structure, static balance type
Effective Length 230.5 mm
Overhang 16 mm
Tracking Error Within 3°
Arm Height Adjustment Range 6 mm
Stylus Pressure Variable Range 0 g to 4.0 g（1 scale 0.1 g)
Proper Cartridge Weight 9.5 g or less (single cartridge)
Cartridge Type VM type
INCLUDED ACCESSORIES
Slip mat, Dust cover with jacket stand, Adapter for EP record, Balance weight, Headshell (with cartridge), Shell weight, Power cord, USB cord, Audio conversion cord, Operating instructions
HEADSHELL SPECIFICATIONS
Weight 10.0 g
Shell Length 52 mm
Finger Length 21 mm

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. Its portfolio includes brands such as Pioneer Professional Audio and Pioneer DJ Radio, rekordbox dj software, as well as social platforms KUVO and DJsounds. Pioneer DJ Corporation is a privately held company headquartered in Yokohama, Japan.

Website: www.pioneerdj.com

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

Follow us on:

Facebook at facebook.com/PioneerDJUSA

Instagram at instagram.com/PioneerDJUSA

Twitter at twitter.com/PioneerDJ

YouTube at youtube.com/pioneerdjglobal

Other Channels:

www.rekordbox.com

www.kuvo.com

www.pioneerproaudio.com

www.djsounds.com

www.pioneerdjradio.com

Contact:

Dana Block, 310-496-4460, dana@allisonpr.com

 

Mixing as a DJ

By: Tony Fernandez

First, a DJ must have a passion about music. That’s what usually gets us going down the path of becoming a DJ: a love of music. Along the way we learn programming matters. We figure out that if you line up certain songs in a certain way, you have great crowd responses. We learn to read a crowd; another skill that once developed is indispensable in being able to command a floor / room.

Which brings us to an often-overlooked skill set every DJ should have in their arsenal: mixing (and to a little venting about those DJs who, sadly, couldn’t care less about it).

I believe mixing is something intrinsic to being DJ, a skill so fundamental, so integral, so elementary, and so organic (I’ll lay off the thesaurus now…) that I can’t fathom being a DJ without the ability to blend songs together. Why would anyone shun the ability to make themselves better, make their work better, and to set themselves apart from other DJs?

Mixing allows for a smooth, harmonious and melodious transition from one song to another. Mixing ensures there’s no “dead air” from song to song. Mixing grants your floor / crowd an uninterrupted progression of the musical journey you’re working so hard to create.

Do you want to represent yourself in the best possible way and let the music / mixing speak for your endeavors? Would you rather sound like a bunch of sneakers in the washing machine, or worse — like the local Clear Channel radio station? (Yes, I know Clear Channel is a thing of the past. That’s why I used that name. My lawyers said it was kosher.)

I once had a gentleman point out to me the “history” of DJing, going back to the 1930s. He mentioned prominent names and cited historical dates as hallmarks to bolster his position that these early pioneers were perfect examples of why it wasn’t necessary to concern ourselves with a trivial 3-5 seconds of meshed music.

Well, that is all well and good, but doesn’t mean squat. With all due respect to those pioneers, mobile DJs and club DJs aren’t partying like it’s 1929; today those “deejays” would be called radio personalities. I’ll acquiesce that I can’t do what they can do. I also say with 110% certainty, most radio personalities can’t do what today’s DJs can do.

I’ll challenge ANY DJ to pick 10 songs, that’s 9 segues.

Test A: Don’t mix a lick. Blend, don’t blend, and try to avoid having 4 out of 9 of those segues sound like straight up train wrecks that would have even Marlee Matlin grimacing.

Test B: Mix the tracks in a linear, harmonious fashion.

Then tell me how the floor reacts to each test.
I’m not a betting man, but I’ll lay heavy money the people in Test B are going to have a better experience than the people in Test A.

My point in all this: Learn your craft. Get your fundamentals down pat. If you don’t know how to mix, learn. It’s not that difficult. If I can do it, you can do it. You don’t have to be the Michael Jordan of mixing. Kevin McHale had a Hall of fame career off the bench.

Any mixing is better than no mixing, kinda like sex. Something simple, clean, quick and musical. It doesn’t take much. If you’re not mixing, you’re not DJing (yeah I said it.) Heck, there are apps on your phone that can mix.

There’s no excuse for a professional DJ not to mix. That’s what the Sync button is for.

Now go out there and learn something.

Based out of Richmond, VA, DJ Tony Fernandez has been a DJ, Remixer, Producer, Musical Soothsayer and Audio Gear Oracle since 1980. Find him on facebook. Email djtonytf@gmail.com

5 Life Hacks Every DJ Should Know

Sticky Fingers Free

By Glen Ervin

It’s a fact of DJ life: software crashes, hardware fails, cables fray; things go wrong – typically at the worst possible moment. No doubt you have your own Plan B in place when the inevitable happens; but just in case you missed that episode of MacGyver, here’s a look at a few essential seat-of-the-pants fail-safes.

  1. Ground Hum

If you’ve DJ’d for any length of time, especially with a laptop, midi-controller and a flat screen or two, you’re all-too familiar with the fingers-on-chalkboard sound of 60-cycle hum bleeding though your speakers.

For many the solution seems simple enough — drop the ground; lose the hum. But what you may not know is that simply removing the ground is never a safe option. A far better solution, one that won’t require routing through a ground lift (and the resulting loss of volume and tone), can be easily arrived at with the Ebtech Hum X Ground Loop Hum Exterminator. Easy to use, easy to install, can be used with any device with a 3-prong outlet and will not affect your audio signal.

Kill the hum, not the buzz (or your gear).

  1. Laptop Crash

If an RCA to 1/8” cable isn’t the first cable you run when you’re setting up, it should be. Routinely hook that bad boy up to your smartphone and the emergency playlist of party favorites you have at the ready and you’ll never have more than a few moments of downtime while you reboot.

For an extra layer of prep, keep your emergency playlist on auto play to completely eliminate any chance of dead air.

Also good to have for that pesky laptop switch.

  1. No Mic? Use your headphones!

Here’s something might have missed: If you’re ever in a pinch for a microphone you can always use a pair of headphones. Geek-speak aside, a microphone is pretty much the same as a speaker: both use a diaphragm and magnetic driver to convert sound to current.

How do you do it? Simple. Just grab the nearest pair of headphones and plug them into your mixer’s headphone input. Oddly enough, this seems to work best with cheaper iPhone type earpods, but typically whatever cans you’re wearing will do the job.

  1. Mixer Meltdown

Ouch. This is toughie to bounce back from: Your mixer craps out and you don’t have a back up.

Solution: A 1/8 to dual XLR male cables will let you bypass your new doorstop and route directly from your laptop to most powered speakers.

Have ‘em ready to run and your downtime will be minimum.

   5. The Ultimate Hack

While dead air might not be a matter of life and death, it can sure feel like it when 100 or more people are staring you down.

Remember: There is no panic button on your keyboard.

Stay Calm. It’s the ultimate life hack.

After being turned out to pasture following a 16-year club residency, Glen Ervin finds himself gainfully employed as Promo Only sales manager, media consultant and staff writer.

Meet the Pioneer DDJ-RZX Audio and Video Performance Controller

 

Pioneer DJ is introducing the new DDJ-RZX flagship controller. Designed to make the most of the new rekordbox™ video Plus Pack for rekordbox dj, the DDJ-RZX builds on Pioneer DJ’s heritage of making innovative video DJ equipment like the DVJ-1000 and SVM-1000. The DDJ-RZX is a 4-channel professional controller for mobile DJs and anyone who wants to bring videos into their performances.

 

The DDJ-RZX features three touch screens for viewing track information and applied pad effects. Video previewing and monitoring is sharp on the 7-inch screens, and they give access to all the key features in both rekordbox dj and the new rekordbox video Plus Pack. You only need to use your laptop to browse your rekordbox library and select tracks. Two XLR combo input jacks give distortion-free Mic output and the 3-band Mic EQ and Mic FX let you tune each voice. Plus, the extensive FX unit includes Combo FX, Sampler Repeat and Release FX, as well as the studio-quality Sound Color FX from the DJM-900NXS2 mixer. The DDJ-RZX inherits traits from the CDJ-2000NXS2 multiplayer and DJM mixer series including large jog wheels, multi-colored Performance Pads and high-quality sound.

 

The DDJ-RZX will be available in the U.S. and Canada from July 2016, with a retail price of $2999.00. The DDJ-RZX will come bundled with license keys for rekordbox dj, rekordbox dvs, and rekordbox video Plus Packs (a $377.00 total value).

 

rekordbox video is a Plus Pack for rekordbox dj that adds video performance features to our rekordbox dj performance software. Its key features include:

  • Native control of videos – scratch and add FX to videos as if they were audio tracks
  • Transition FX – use the crossfader to mix two video sources with a choice of 20 built-in FX, or add up to five effects to your favorites and recall them
  • Touch FX – trace on the display’s x and y axes to add FX and adjust parameters
  • Slideshow – create slideshows of still images in advance or on the fly
  • Camera output – show the live feed from a digital camera connected to your computer

 

To buy the rekordbox video Plus Pack for rekordbox dj, follow these steps:

 

  1. Download and install rekordbox music management application version 4.2 for free (available from July 1, 2016).
  2. Purchase a rekordbox dj Plus Pack license key for $129.00 (if you don’t own one already) and activate the Plus Pack.
  3. Purchase a rekordbox video Plus Pack license key for $149.00.

 

If you’re a rekordbox dj monthly subscriber, you can use the video features without buying a license key (included as part of the subscription). Find out more about the rekordbox family.

 

Watch the DDJ-RZX introduction video.

Learn more about the DDJ-RZX rekordbox dj controller.

 

 

KEY FEATURES OF THE DDJ-RZX

 

  1. Layout mirrors a CDJ set-up

Mix audio and videos instinctively with features inherited from the CDJ and DJM series including large jog wheels and multi-colored tactile Performance Pads. The 4-channel controller has an independent sampler section for intuitive control of Beat Sync, Quantize and Trim on the sampler.

 

  1. High-quality sound

Hear the true sound of your tracks thanks to AC inlets for reduced cable contact resistance and a high performance 96 kHz/32-bit D/A converter made by Asahi Kasai. Plus, low jitter clock IC and the 96 kHz/24-bit USB sound card ensure powerful, high-quality sound.

 

  1. Three touch screens for complete control

Take your performances to the next level by using the three 7-inch touch screens to preview/monitor video and image files, and to trigger Beat FX and Release FX. Plus, Touch FX lets you add FX and adjust parameters by tracing on the x and y axes on the display. Use deck display mode to check track information such as titles, BPM and key. Additionally, use mixer display mode to see enlarged waveforms for each track, as well as loop and Hot Cue information. Create instant doubles by simply touching the display.

 

  1. Professional Mic section

Hear voices loud and clear thanks to two XLR combo input jacks for Mics. Control the output with the 3-band Mic EQ and use the four Mic FX – Echo, Reverb, Pitch and V Tune – to add texture and to tune each voice.

 

  1. Extensive FX unit

Add the following FX to your tracks from rekordbox dj or external players and sound sources:

 

  • Combo FX – control Sound Color FX and Beat FX at the same time using the touch screens
  • Sampler Repeat – change the length of a loop just by touching the display and apply Sound Color FX when using the rekordbox dj sampler
  • Sound Color FX with sub parameter control – use the studio-quality Sound Color FX from the DJM-900NXS2 mixer including Sweep, Filter, Crush, Dub Echo, Noise and Space, and fine-tune them using sub parameter control
  • Release FX – exit complex FX patterns by selecting Vinyl Brake, Echo or Back Spin and twisting the dial

 

  1. Other features
  • Active Censor – intuitively control the new Active Censor feature in rekordbox dj. Set in and out points and apply Reverse Roll, Trans, Echo or Vinyl Brake FX to disguise explicit words in tracks. The FX will then be heard whenever the track is played from rekordbox dj.
  • Three bundled license keys – comes with license keys for rekordbox dj, rekordbox dvs and rekordbox video
  • Newly developed crossfader – highly durable and capable of over 10 million movements
  • OSC sampler – four oscillator sounds
  • Dual USB port – for smooth transitions between DJs
  • Brushed aluminum faceplate – high quality and professional design
  • P-Lock fader cap – locks fader knobs to prevent dropping

 

A protective case for the DDJ-RZX will be available. Made from lightweight, durable materials, it has a robust, black metal frame to keep your controller safe during transit. It also features built-in carry handles and wheels for easy transportation (to be sold separately).

Is Out of Key Mixing All That Bad?

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By Brian Buonassissi

Being a keyboardist who took piano lessons as a kid and even dabbled as a semi-professional in a cover band (before my DJ’ing days started), I am well aware of key signatures and the importance of staying in key. If you played any part of a song with clashing keys, it would sound god-awful. Pretty soon, I could play by ear and would easily be able tell if something was in key or not.

Fast forward to the late 90s / early 2000s when mashups were the rage as a DJ (RIP DJ AM, the man who brought this genre to life). Production technology had progressed by that point where anybody could find instrumentals online or make a decent DIY acapella and mashups were popping up everywhere. Unfortunately, most of those making them had no music theory background and they relied on matching tempos and put matching keys on the backburner.

To this day, I am shocked with the amount of out-of-key mashups they are. I am very selective with the ones I use and discount 9 out of every 10. Worse yet, I see live mixing that is done in the same manner. I cringe when I hear it, and though your crowd may not know technically what is happening, trust me when I tell you that they can tell when it’s off.

Eventually, in-key mixing tools came to the market that helped non-trained DJs tremendously. Line up the numbers and you are set. Recently, Serato has integrated the technology into their software. There is really no excuse now NOT to have things properly aligned.

All of that said, I still do believe that there are occasions when “out of key” mixing is OK. It is related to just that – mixing from one song to the other. It actually can help build energy or transition from one feel in your set to another. There are a couple keys to this. You don’t want to stay too long in the mix and never do this with vocals. If you’ve listened to me mix live or heard any of my posted mixes online, you’ll notice I sneak it in there every now and then.

What are your thoughts? Do you believe in mixing in key? Does it matter?

Based out of NYC, DJ Brian B is a successful nationally traveling private event headlining DJ/MC. He runs a multi-city mobile business with offices in Orange County, Calif, Destin, FL and New York City. You can check find him at djbrianbofficial.com or bboyproductions.com

Promo Only DIY DJ Booth

Promo Only DIY DJ Booth , inspired by DJ TechTools and sponsored by Pioneer DJ.

The goal: To give Orlando DJs a place to experience the newest gear in a real-world setting free of the constraints of brick-and-mortar stores.

The Materials (suggested by DJ TechTools):

Kallax Shelves (4) http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40278840/ $49.99 each

Linnmon Table Top (2) http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/20251356/ $45.99 each

Capita 6 ¾” Bracket (2) http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40051196/ $19.99 (2-pack)

Capita Leg 6 ¼ Leg (2) http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/10267895/ $14.00 (4-pack)

Bjärnum Folding Hook (2) http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/60152590/ $9.99 (3-pack)

The Bling (suggested by Promo Only):

Stainless Steel Waterjet-Cut Front Plates w/translucent backing (2) – $75.00 each

Bladis Storage Baskets (8) http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40223414/ $4.99 each

Char-Broil 26.5-in Steel Grill Rotisserie (4) http://www.lowes.com/  $29.99 each

Kreg 3-in Dual Locking Caster Set (2) http://www.lowes.com/ $80.66 (set of 4)

32’ LED Under-Cabinet Lighting w/color changer http://www.amazon.com/ $29.99 (set of 4)

 Total Cost – $880.00 and change

 Acknowledgements: We’d like to thank DJ TechTools for the inspiration, Promo Only co-owner & founder Pete Werner for the perspiration, and Pioneer DJ for their participation. No DJ lives were lost in the making of this video.