Issue 118
DecEmbER 2008
www.mobilebeat.com
Up to
$150 Back
Valid from 11/01/08 thru 01/31/09
HPR Get the pro audio gear you really want right now with great savings on these world-class QSC products. There’s never been a better time to own genuine QSC reliability, durability and performance, all backed up by our FREE 6-year warranty (with online registration). But hurry... the savings end January 31, 2009. Your favorite QSC retailer has all the details. You can also download a copy of the rebate form online at www.qscaudio.com/rebate. All valid documentation must be received by February 28, 2009 to be eligible. Rebate is available to customers in the US only.
www.qscaudio.com/rebate Š2008 QSC Audio Products, LLC. QSC, the QSC logo and PowerLight are registered trademarks of QSC Audio Products, LLC in the U.S. Patent and Trademark office and other countries.
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Issue 118
december
2008
www.mobilebeat.com
Features
14 handling Call of the wild a gig way off the beaten path 18 QUALITY CONSIDERING CABLES CORDS: YOUR AUDIO LIFELINES 36 PERSPECTIVES INSIDE THE INDUSTRY: PIONEER ON THE PURSUIT OF PERFECTION 60 INSIDE THE INDUSTRY: QSC CHARTING A COURSE TO QUALITY
Departments
6....................................................... Track One 8............................................................ It’s Hot 10............. Juice: SPECIAL TRADESHOW REPORT 20............... Cutting edge wedding marketing 80.................................... Showcase Classifieds 81............................................ Advertiser Index 82...................................... Extraordinary Gear
Buyer’s Guides and Product Listings 22................................... Computer Software
30...................... DIGITAL MEDIA CONTROLLERS
40................................DMx LIGHTING CONTROL
46.................................................. LED LIGHTING 54....................................... Powered Speakers
64............................................................. mixers
Industry Info 72....... manufacturers & service providers 77...........................................................DEALERS
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gear guide 2008
IMPORTANT NOTE: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this edition of the Mobile Beat Gear Guide. However, ProDJ Publishing cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions, nor be held liable for any loss or damage claimed to relate to any such errors or omissions.
trackONE December 2008
Get into Gear T
he annual Mobile Beat Gear Guide is all about DJ gear, here every year to provide you with essential info for making buying decisions. Added to the mix this year is a sharp focus on important product categories, featuring guides to shopping for these particular items and making the most of your equipment investment. Along with this hard-copy guide, don’t forget that you can utilize Mobile Beat’s online Gear Guide all year long to find summaries of the latest info on new products, links to manufacturer websites for further information, and links to web-based retailers to help you compare prices and make online purchases. Access the Gear Guide online at http://mall. prodj.com. And while we’re talking about gear, meaning “equipment,” let me take a moment to look at “getting into gear” from the perspective of engaging your energy and moving your mobile DJ business forward in these uncertain times. First off, we here at Mobile Beat and ProDJ Publishing want to thank you for your continuing support of our various media outlets. We strive to give you the best information in the most usable formats, throughout the year, to help you keep improving your performances and keep your business motoring along smoothly. Please let us know how we can be of the greatest aid to you, and what things we can improve to make your info-gathering experience better. (Contact info appears in our masthead to the right.) Also, we just want to remind you that even the greatest gear in the universe won’t automatically guarantee the best entertainment experience. High-quality equipment must be combined with performance expertise. If you are looking to make the most of your gear and other DJ assets, remember that you can interact with your fellow entertainers in ProDJ Publishing’s flourishing web community at Start.ProDJ.com. There you can gain valuable insights, not only into what equipment, music, business ideas, etc. others are successfully using, but you’ll also find priceless encouragement and thought-provoking discussion that will be your fuel as you reach for your objectives…just what you need to keep your DJ business vehicle in high gear. —Dan Walsh, Editor-in-Chief
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I S S U E
N o .
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Publisher Ryan Burger - ProDJ Publishing Editor in Chief and Managing Editor Dan Walsh Advertising Director Andy Powell Creative Director/Production Adam M. Rothberg Editor at Large Anthony Barthel Circulation Manager Kitty Harr Gear Guide Coordinator Jake Feldman Contributors to this issue: Andy Ebon • Robert Kuron • Merlin Zimmet Dr. Drax • Marc Andrews • Bret Agard Ben Stowe, CTS • Thomas Edison Mobile Beat Mobile Entertainer Shows and Conferences Producer Michael Buonaccorso
HOW TO REACH MOBILE BEAT: TO ADVERTISE, CALL 515-986-3300 x304 For subscriptions, address changes or back issues go to http://www.mobilebeat.com or contact Mobile Beat by mail at: P.O. Box 42365, Urbandale, IA 50323 Back issues of Mobile Beat (if available) $5 (in Canada: $6, U.S. funds) Shipping address: ProDJ Publishing • 807 N. Park • Grimes, IA 50111 Tel: 515-986-3300 • Fax: 515-986-3344 E-mail: webmaster@mobilebeat.com Web: www.mobilebeat.com Mobile Beat (ISSN# 1058-0212) is published by: ProDJ Publishing (BC Productions, Inc.) P.O. Box 42365, Des Moines, IA 50323 January, March, May, July, September, November, December (7 issues per year). Ground shipments to: 807 N. Park • Grimes, IA 50111 Periodical postage paid at Grimes, IA and additional mailing locations. Subscription rates – U.S. and possessions: $23 for 1 year, $40 for 2 years and $55 for 3 years. Canada: $33 for 1 year, $50 for 2 years and $75 for 3 years. All other countries: $60 per year. Subscriptions outside the U.S. must be paid in U.S. currency. Postmaster – Send address changes to Mobile Beat • P.O. Box 309 • East Rochester, NY 14445. Copyright © 2008 by ProDJ Publishing All rights reserved. Reproduction of copy, photography, or artwork prohibited without permission of the publisher. All advertising material subject to publisher’s approval.
Pioneer Debuts Headphones for Discerning DJs Pioneer ProDJ has unveiled the latest addition to its popular DJ headphone series, the HDJ-2000. The development of the Pioneer HDJ-2000 stems from numerous requests from top DJs around the world desiring headphones with high-quality sound, comfortable fit to minimize fatigue from long periods of use; and high durability to withstand demanding conditions A key element of the HDJ-2000’s excellent sound reproduction is a thick 35mm polyethylene terephthalate (PET) diaphragm that improves rigidity, providing the strength needed for better lower frequency response. This material also helps to dampen unwanted resonance. Wide frequency response with high clarity and detail results from a large 50mm driver. An enclosed “over-ear� design, with ear pads that seal around the user’s ears, reduces ambient noise and provides superior sound isolation for tracking in a loud club environment or a studio. The ear pad’s unique material, “memory foam� (polyurethane foam), provides a tight yet comfortable seal, further enhancing sound reproduction especially in the mid to high frequency ranges. The HDJ-2000’s lightweight construction and soft comfortable ear pads are ideal for long sessions and reduce the well-known phenomenon of “headphone fatigue.� Magnesium alloy components are used in the main body components to achieve both a lightweight and durable design. The HDJ-2000 employs a unique mini-XLR connection to join the main body with the nearly ten feet of cable to achieve both a reliable connection and easy replacement. Another distinctive feature is Mono/Stereo switch that combines the audio signal for accurate single-ear monitoring. The HDJ-2000 will be available in December 2008 with a manufacturer suggested retail price of $450. Other specs: Frequency range: 5Hz-30kHz; impedance: 36Ί; maximum input: 3,500mW; output sound level: 107dB/m; weight: 290g / 10.23 ounces (excluding cord); included accessories: 6.3mm 3P plug adapter (gold-plated, screwtype); carrying bag, connection cord (1.2m coiled / about 3m straight). For more information, visit www.pioneerprodj.com.
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Tonium’s Mini-Mixer Sets the Pace The Swedish tech company, Tonium, creator of the hand-held DJ mixing device called the Pacemaker, announced that it has been named an International CES Innovations 2009 Design and Engineering Awards Honoree. Products entered in this program are judged by a preeminent panel of industrial designers, engineers and members of the media, with the goal of honoring outstanding design and engineering in cuttingedge consumer electronics products. The Pacemaker is a portable media player that features full professional DJ functionality. Imagine two turntables, a mixer and an entire record collection contained in a device that fits into your pocket. The Pacemaker itself is part of the larger Pacemaker platform that encompasses the Pacemaker Editor and the Pacemaker Community. Pacemaker Editor is a free, downloadable PC and Mac compatible computer application that allows you to play music and edit and create mixes. The Pacemaker Community is an online music community that allows members to upload and legally share the mixes of their music, created by the Pacemaker or the Pacemaker Editor software. “The development of the Pacemaker was truly a feat of engineering. Scaling down a mixer, two turntables and an entire music collection into one handheld device was something that had never been done before,� said Ola Sars, Tonium’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “It’s an honor to be recognized by CEA for this accomplishment, we are all extremely proud of this achievement.� The widely renowned Innovations Design and Engineering Awards, which be-
’Tis the Festive Season Got an aspiring DJ on your gift list this holiday season™ Want an instant colorful light show for around $100™ American DJ hopes to fulfill your wishes with the Festive Light Pak II, an affordable new “plug-and-playâ€? lighting package. Featuring a moonflower, color ball and ministrobe, this package can add an instant visual pop to your parties. The entire setup is ultra lightweight and extremely portable, making it a great choice for mobile DJs. The three components were chosen to complement each other: The Multi-Flower II is a
gan in 1976, is sponsored by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), the producer of the International CES, the world’s largest consumer technology tradeshow. The awards are also endorsed by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA). Tonium’s Pacemaker will be displayed at the 2009 International CES, which runs January 8-11, 2009 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Tonium (www.tonium.com) was established by a tightly knit group of passionate people with a background in music, design and engineering. With a flair for innovation, Tonium exists as a company dedicated to promoting the sharing of musical tastes in a socially engaging context. For Pacemaker info go to www.pacemaker.net.
50W classic multi-colored moonflower effect that creates a shower of beams with static or continuous rotation options. It measures 10�L x 6.5�W x 4.5�H and weighs 6 lbs. A convenient hanging bracket is included for easy and safe installation. The Colorball II, a mini centerpiece revolving ball effect, uses 50W lamps to fill the room with 60 brilliant, multi-colored beams in a slow, continuous rotation. Measuring 8.75�L x 8.75�W x 12.5�H, it weighs just 5 lbs. The S-25 II Mini Strobe provides a powerful strobe punch with its 25W lamp. Its easy-access variable speed knob adjusts the strobe flash rate. Ruggedly built, with durable plastic casing, this ultra compact fixture measures 2�L x 3.25�W x 5�H and weighs only 1 lb. The complete Festive Light Pak II system carries an MSRP of $139.95. To see the Festive Light Pak II in action, go to: http://www.youtube. com/watch™v=gaydUbTvkuU &eurl=http://www.americandj. com/ProductDetails.aspx™Ca tegory=&ItemNumber=1805 and for more info visit www. americandj.com.
Yamaha’s ten new MG-Series mixer models provide excellent audio performance and a varied combination of valuable features, many of which are highlighted here on our fully-loaded MG166cx-usb.* No matter your application, there’s an MG configuration just right for you. Even better yet, all this “no compromise” quality comes at prices anyone can afford, ranging from $99 to $649.** So, if you’re as detail oriented as we are, visit our website to check out the line and your favorite Yamaha Live Sound dealer for a hands on examination.
*USB models also come with Cubase AI4 recording software **Estimated street price
©2008 Yamaha Corporation of America. All rights reserved. www.yamaha.com
JUICE
Upcoming events, essential news, useful facts that will enhance your business and performance
Gear to Go: Autumn Trade Shows
Checking out he UK’s new BPM show and the longrunning lighting extravaganza called LDI By Ryan Burger
O
ctober was a busy month for entertainment equipment trade shows. From the BPM show in England, which is aimed at mobile entertainers and clubs to the huge LDI lighting show in Las Vegas, there was a lot to see. BPM: British DJs Benefit from Growing Show Starting out in England, ProDJ Publishing participated in the BPM conference that is produced in part by Pro Mobile Magazine, Mobile Beat’s counterpart in the UK. The US contingent grew dramatically from just myself and KC KoKoruz in 2007 to at least nine that I know of. ProDJ Publishing was represented by Ryan and Rebecca Burger (making her first conference appearance in 10+ years), Andy “Guerilla Marketing For DJs” Powell and Ken “Master Wedding MC” Day. Joining us at Donnington Park in the Midlands area of England was Rob and Tracy Johnson of DigiGames, Brian Redd of DJ Tutor, Brian Dowdle of the American DJ Family of Companies, and others. Additionally, Intelligence Inc. presented their DJ Intelligence product at the conference. A weekend show, it had mostly trade members and club DJs attend on Saturday and 10
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of course that day it was definitely all about the gear. Andy and Ken both spoke to nice crowds of DJs that afternoon, but Sunday was where they both shined, with packed rooms for both of their presentations on Relationship Marketing and Wedding Performance. Additionally Rob Johnson of DigiGames covered the same topic he often covers in Mobile Beat, the challenge of getting mid-week work. Although DJs in the UK aren’t as interactive as mobile DJs here in the states, he showed them some great techniques
that can help them get more weekday business and be more outgoing without turning off their audience. American DJ was very well represented by its American DJ Europe Division. The American brand has definitely invaded the mother country, making a major name for itself in the UK. Pioneer was showing its latest innovations in digital DJ hardware with an emphasis on “the mix” of music and video. Look for new headphones from them early next year.
JUICE
Upcoming events, essential news, useful facts that will enhance your business and performance
We were treated to a preview of what DJ Tutor will be doing at MBLV09. Johnathan, Brian and the rest of the DJ Tutor crew were demonstrating SJ techniques in person, just like they do online. Odyssey Innovative Designs, Stanton, Denon, Promo Only, Cerwin Vega, Chauvet, Rane, PCDJ, Numark, GCI and Behringer, all well known brands in the US, were also represented at the conference. For its second year in existence, the BPM event showed a clear increase in size and educational content. It is an awesome reason to make a “business trip” across the Atlantic! LDI: Lighting Innovations on Spectacular Display With less than a two-day break it was back home to the US and off to Las Vegas for LDI. The LDI trade show is not a show for disc jockeys, by any means. It’s the show that your DJ equipment dealers attend to find out about (and place initial orders for) the latest innovations in lighting and video. Although easily 80% of the products shown there would be of no use to mobile disc jockeys—unless they have made the move into larger concert-level and production events—it is extremely interesting nonetheless. Plus, the companies that do provide products for the DJ market are typically there showing off their latest wares. The booth setup for the American DJ Group of Companies attracted attention immediately when I first walked in the floor. The higher-end Elation line was first in line, followed by American DJ, American Audio, Global Truss and other related items. According to David Saghian of SixStarDJ.Com, “ADJ came out really strong and means business.” Personally, I was interested in their innovations in audio first. Being a fan of the SDJ1 (SD card DJing unit), I went straight for a look at the SDJ2, which adds a mixer, balanced output, USB connectivity, and support for SDHC cards. They’ve essentially taken a very basic, user-friendly unit and added some nice features. The Radius 1000 unit shown here is a new multi-function, tabletop-style CD player with MIDI control, advanced track, an awesome new display technology and touch sensitivity. Don’t miss your chance to preview it at MBLV09! In the lighting area, American DJ continues to build their strength in LED. They have now taken halogen DJ lights like the Vertigo and Avenger and created LED equivalents. “Old school going LED and having motion and color mix is what hit me” said Rob Kuron of DJS Pro Audio and Lighting when I caught him staring up into the ADJ demo room. Florida-based Chauvet was showing many new products, including their Q-Spot 250-LED, which is due to come out in first quarter 2009. This is a fantastic highend yoke head DMX light that is completely LED-powered (27 5-watt LEDs to be precise), and looks as bright as discharge lamp-style light. This is one to definitely check out in person. (Did I mention our Mobile Beat Vegas show™ I thought so.) In the DJ market, they also updated their VUE series of lights with new cases, new, more detailed patterns and on 12
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One More Reason Not to Miss MVLV09…
V
eteran Detroit-area DJ and magazine contributor, Stu Chisholm, will be adding two more feathers to his cap in quick succession as we enter the new year. First will be the publication by ProDJ Publishing of his book, The Complete DJ, a wide-ranging but extremely practical look at the entire realm of DJ possibilities. Hot on the heels of this release will be Stu’s first appearance as a seminar speaker at the Mobile Beat DJ Show & Conference (February 17-19, 2009 at the Riviera Hotel & Casino on the Las Vegas Strip). For a taste of Stu’s take on DJing, here’s a brief excerpt from the book’s introduction (not necessarily the final version): …I wanted to be an all-around DJ, one who could feel comfortable in a broadcast booth, roller rink, nightclub or at a wedding reception. I never wanted to be the next Shadoe Stevens, Richie Hawtin or Murray “The K” Kaufman. My goal was simply to not look bad if I found myself working shoulder-to-shoulder with anyone like them. In short, I wanted to be the consummate disc jockey: the DJ’s DJ! Each type of disc jockey encounters vastly different situations, demands, and requirements, all with distinctive skill sets. I don’t know where the adage comes from, but I would often hear industry folks say, “You don’t let the radio DJ play the clubs, you don’t let the club DJ play the weddings, and you don’t let the wedding DJ play either!” Yet this was exactly my goal, along with trying my hand at roller rinks, commercial copywriting, voice-over and production work, remixing and any other niches where a DJ works (or might work). As you may already have noticed, my definition of disc jockey is very broad. In today’s world, even the term itself is almost obsolete. Actual discs—CDs and vinyl records—have nearly vanished, relegated to the closet of technological history along with eight-track tapes and Edison cylinders. Radio DJs refer to themselves as “air talent,” the mobile DJs are opting for “party host,” “emcee” or simply “entertainer.” The guys who do still use vinyl—usually club, rave and underground DJs—might refer to themselves as “turntablists.” Yet at the core of the semantic gymnastics is the guy or gal who keeps people entertained: the DJ. It’s a term employed worldwide, and even people too young to associate discs with music (or video) understand what a DJ is. At least for now.
the VUE 2.1 and 4.1 the addition of rotation to the effects. Known for their lasers and other lighting, and now sound products as well, Omnisistem made a strong showing at the conference with its new Merlin yoke-head light that features a full 540-degree pan and b-color gobos. Chicago-based Irradiant made its lighting conference debut, showing the Revo 100 LED yoke head that has already been a hot seller for the last three or four months. Also, basic lights like the Archispot—which sells for under $100— make it easy to project gobos for your events after making them up quickly on your computer. While not quite as bright as most gobo projectors, the ease of use is a big attraction. Irradiant’s River 3 was also recently updated, so if you are looking for up-lighting or a basic LED chase set, this is a great piece that doesn’t cost a lot, doesn’t
draw much power, but is very flexible for a variety of applications. A lot of the equipment you find at LDI is major production-level gear, with pieces in the $25-$50k neighborhood—amazing effects like the Fogscreen that allows you to project LCD projectors in a movie type scene on a fog surface. However, a lot of manufacturers are turning their sights on the DJ market, especially in the LED realm. As J.C. Faxas, Pro Audio and Lighting Buyer for Guitar Center noted, “LED walls and LED heads are coming down in price everywhere, and getting into the DJ neighborhood.” What a week of gear it was. And there’s more to come: After a break for the holidays it will be time to start ramping for the NAMM music industry event and then MBLV09 in February. Don’t miss your chance to check out the latest DJ gear in Las Vegas! MB
You need DJPower, the originators of MP3 mixing. Mix like your existing mixer, plus alot more. Auto & Manual Video & Audio Beat Mixing Mix Video Like Pro Video Mixers Karaoke Player With Master Key & Tempo Background Video, Graphics & Real Time Camera RF Remote Control Mix DVD With MPEG Video Fully Customizable Hot Buttons Rip CDs, DVD’s While Playing Your Gig Request Songs at Your Fingertips Program Your Set In Advance MPEG II Video Library Available Customizable Screen Fits Your Needs Control Lighting & Assign To Individual Video Or MP3 Time Sequence Lighting Touch Screen Interface Multiple Audio & Video Playback For Separate Rooms Optional Wireless Control Tablet Easy Touch Screen Interface For Guests’ Requests Over 50 Different Awesome Video Transitions Hardware Controller For Audio & Video DAC3 Controller Don’t settle for less. Meet all your needs in one box.
(719) 52-POWER DJPower International LLC 360 Childe Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, USA
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The Call of the Wild
When setting up the wedding gig means a true walk on the wild side
A
By Merlin Zimmet
s DJs, throughout most of our careers we seldom stray from the usual settings: hotel ballrooms, banquet halls, gymnasiums, back yards, tents, and so on. Once in awhile, however, we may get a call to do something off the beaten path— way off. My “journey to adventure” began when a word-of-mouth referral came in one day that would prove to be somewhat “difficult.” The brideto-be was in her early sixties and the groom of similar longevity. Nothing so unusual about that; it’s just proof that people can fall in love, regardless of time spent on the planet. But that’s pretty much where any normalcy associated with this pending event ended. A pair of the bride’s close friends offered a location for the ceremony and reception. They just happened to own about 1,700 acres of remote, albeit breathtaking Western Colorado property known as the Ladder Canyon Ranch. That should be enough real estate to host a few thousand of your closest friends, I thought. “Off the grid” was not an accurate description of this location; the grid wasn’t even close. The final grade to the location was a six-mile uphill pull of 14
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dusty, one-lane gravel road. The wedding invitation read “4x4 not necessary but recommended... If you get stuck or lost, we’ll be back in the spring.” I could see the real possibility of a recipe for disaster cooking up. Aside from the shear logistical problem, what if, heaven forbid, it should rain™ Once the tenting companies we called found out about the location, they opted to rent all their equipment to other customers hosting events with better accessibility—for example, in the Amazon. Nonetheless undaunted, the bride, groom, friends and I forged ahead with the planning of the details. Of course a “look see” was in order, just to get bearings and pick out a spot for the ceremony and subsequent party. Upon arrival, we found that the only 21st-century semi-permanent structure on the entire property was a yurt (see photo). Not nearly enough room for a group nearing 100. A yurt is a round tent, originally used by nomadic tribes of Asia. It’s a strong and relatively lightweight domicile, requiring only 30 or 40 yaks to move. The balance of the area’s topography was a combination of rolling high country beauty: pine trees, rock outcroppings, canyons, etc.—a great setting for a Hollywood Western…or a survival reality show.
The owners were the kind of folks who enjoy venturing up to their property and spending time just hanging out off the grid, away from the phone, communing with nature; and they were bound and determined to share their
Wilderness Survival for DJs Make a checklist of everything you will need, and try to have a backup, if possible. (batteries, computers, extension cords, flashlights etc etc.) Check it again. Make a list of all the problem areas, and then think through ahead of time for a probable solution. (works well with #6) Scope out the area first, if possible. You will save a lot of valuable time on the day of the event, if you already have a good idea about set up locations. Use power surge protection, with your gear. It’s cheap insurance. Invest in some testing equipment, (volt/ ohm meter etc) and know how to use it. Collaborate with the other people involved to make sure you’ve covered everything.
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Denon’s new DN-HD2500 represents the next step in DJ evolution. Ever since a needle hit vinyl, DJs have been setting the standard for what’s hot. Denon comes from that same philosophy and passion–leading the way and creating the path for DJ evolution. That path has lead to the DN-HD2500. A hard-drive based, professional media player and controller offering a total all-in-one solution that addresses and actually anticipates your ever changing needs. It’s flexible, feature packed, and built for any event where professional-quality, and flawless performance is expected. Check it out online at ĂœĂœĂœÂ°`i˜œ˜`Â?°VÂœÂ“Ă‰`˜…`Ă“xää Better yet, swing by your authorized Denon DJ reseller and join the evolution.
Controls Various Audio/Video DJ Software Applications Controls MP3/WAV Music from External USB Devices BU4500 CD/MP3 Drive Unit Navigation System
U
U
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7 Onboard DSP Effects
Create & Import Playlists
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Built-In Sound Card
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Scratching, Looping & Hot Starts Easy 3 Way File
Music Manager PC Software Included
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little slice of paradise and host this wedding. I warned them that we were dealing with the four P’s ...People, Parking, Power, and Potties. But the plans continued to blossom. A date in September was selected, and we consulted with the Farmer’s Almanac to get an idea of what could be expected for weather. The almanac forecast was a little sketchy, only offering a “your guess is as good as ours”-type entry. As the DJ/MC the only P that really concerned me was power. Between the hosts and myself, we owned four power generators of various capacities. We decided that we should have at least three at the event, since we were treading in unknown water with cooking, lighting and sound. (Reminds me of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms--which one doesn’t belong™” Between the three generators we selected, we had at our disposal just over 12,000 watts of power. Better too much, than not enough, as they say. We could have lit up a rodeo arena and simultaneously powered a Kid Rock concert. Of course there was also the noise factor. In this pristine setting we didn’t want the guests to actually hear the big generators, so this required placing them (all but the little 2000-watt Honda that I used) over in Utah, and running heavy gauge extension cords up to their locations. (Note: Because of voltage drops on long runs, always use at least #12 gauge cords if you are running power over 100 feet) Let me tell ya, there is nothing that goes on in any aerobics class that quite matches the workout one can get traipsing around at an elevation of 7,500 ft, with coils of heavy duty power cords over your shoulders. If Michael Phelps did this on a regular basis, he might develop lungs that would allow him to swim from California to Hawaii, underwater. 16
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I’ve always been impressed with the little Honda generators. I’ve used several over the years and they are quiet performers. For this event I dedicated a 2000-watt Honda for powering my sound and computer equipment. It worked flawlessly. I must say I was a little apprehensive about using a generator with my computer. I did opt to add a high-dollar surge protector to the mix, just in case. There was also concern about grounding the system and the potential 60 cycle hum problem. Some web research ensued on the subject, but there seemed to be no definitive conclusion
“Off the grid” was not an accurate description of this location; the grid wasn’t even close. amongst the experts. By NEC code, an 8’ long copper clad steel rod needs to be driven into the ground. I had no clue how to accomplish THAT, since they don’t call ‘em the ROCKY Mountains for nothing, and renting a pile driver was out of the question. I opted to eschew the grounding rod. There was no hum, and there were no hiccups. For those of you who have ever tried to view a laptop screen in bright daylight, you will be able to relate to this next hurdle. Put simply, on a bright sunny day, you can’t see a damn thing. One
must improvise. I chose to employ a technique used by the famous photographer Ansel Adams. Primitive but effective (see photo). The other option would be to hire an assistant to stand over you with an umbrella (ella ella), but that can get costly if you’ve got several hours of daylight. The wedding was stellar and the weather cooperated completely. The reception on the rocks couldn’t have been better. The owners of the ranch worked like slaves to prepare the area and the food for the 100-plus intrepid guests who braved the trek. After the event, we (those involved in coordinating everything) got together, evaluated the event and gave ourselves conservative 9.5s and 9.8s for a job well done. For my professional brothers and sisters in the mobile DJ entertainment business I offer the following. If someone calls and tells you about their plans to host an event in a remote location, take a quick mental inventory of your experience, and then be honest about your ability to actually pull it off. These are not easy gigs. You can always opt out by telling them you are booked for Papua, New Guinea on that date. Remember, the true success of the party is on your shoulders--not those of the cake decorators or the caterers or any other vendor. There can be mediocre food and a melted wedding cake but you can still pull off a great event--anywhere--if you are prepared. Some things you can’t control, like the weather, but if you have a back-up plan for everything else, you can usually still be the hero. MB Merlin Zimmet runs Zentco Productions out of Grand Junction, Colorado.
gettingyouracttogether
Considering Cables
Cords and cables support your show, so
T
By Ryan Burger
his Gear Guide is all about the key pieces of gear DJs need to get their job done—the big stuff, like digital media players and PA equipment. But one thing a lot of people take for granted is their cabling, not putting a lot of thought into those important links in the performance chain. Your fantastic Pioneer multi-media deck, Denon mixer or American Audio CD player isn’t being the best it can be without good cables running from it to the next piece of hardware in line. Just the Right Fit At BC Productions, the in-house DJ service of Mobile Beat Magazine, we just went through a comprehensive overhaul of all of our cabling, ordering thousands of dollars of new audio and power cables, straps and other pieces to make sure that everything in our rigs is functioning at 100%. When you think about it, what has trouble the most often with your systems™ If you have invested in high-end gear like we have, it’s almost always the cabling. We often found ourselves hunting through the garage and tech area looking for just the right adapter to get from a strange situation into a familiar one. That’s why, when we invested in our new cabling, we tried to think of every connection situation our hardware had experienced in the last couple of years. That’s where a good custom cable maker, which many dealers employ, can come in handy. (Our dealer for this project 18
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buy quality and treat them well!
was NLFX Professional.) They can literally wire almost anything to anything. We explained what we were doing, and they asked us about desired options (and also if we were crazy on a number of occasions) and then made the custom cables for us. Custom cables will cost more than factory pieces, but when you consider the adapters often needed to get from one place to another, it can be a much better deal.
Custom cables will cost more than factory pieces, but when you consider the adapters often needed to get from one place to another, it can be a much better deal. Looking Good Off the Rack Although custom solutions can be very useful, there is always a need for standard cables. We purchased over 200 cables! Not every DJ needs to do that by any means, but with the move of our company into higher-end production shows, AV rental, and supporting five full-sized rigs, we thought it was well worth it. We went with the ACCU-Cable line from American DJ (www.americandj.com) because it covered us very well and is at an affordable price point. Additionally, this line features something I have been looking for a long
time for: reasonably priced black power cords! Yes they do exist, in many different sizes and options including 12-gauge, triple tappers and in lengths as much as 100 feet. While the ACCU-Cable line isn’t as extensive as a Hosa or others, if covered our bulk needs very well. Corralling Your Cables A unique find, made by Andy Powell of our staff at a past NAMM conference, was the Stage Ninja (www.stageninja.net) cable control system. As covered previously in Mobile Beat (INSERT ISSUE INFO), the Stage Ninja needs to be seen to be completely understood. It’s the industry’s first retractable cable-winding system. Just imagine one of those extension cords that you might have mounted in your garage that you can pull on and pulls back into itself when you are done with it. Currently these systems are available in two versions: 1/4” to 1/4”, and XLR to XLR. Stage Ninja units can definitely help with your organization of cabling, as well as cutting set-up and tear-down times. The last step for us was keeping the new cables in good shape. We are doing that through cord wraps from Cord Lox (www.cord-lox.com). Available through dealers in regular and custom printed styles, these are 5” to 18” Velcro™ straps featuring a middle opening that holds tightly to the cable, thus keeping the wrap with the cable at all times. We got custom ones made up with our BC Productions logo on them so that ownership of any cables when working with other vendors is assured. No more guessing at a big event whether the cable is yours, the hotel’s or the band’s. Overall, it comes down to taking care of your investment and assuring yourself and your clients that no little thing will stop you from helping them have the perfect event. Think about the investment you have in cabling. Are you using the RCA cables that came in the box and basic extension power cords from Walmart—or are you using professional cables with your professional gear™ MB
cuttingedgeweddingmarketing
Making Business Connections Online Second in a series on New Social Media
T
By Andy Ebon
he phrase, “making friends,” has taken on a whole new meaning on the Internet. In its most basic form it is simply the acknowledgment of two people who have some common interest(s), either social, business, or both. There are myriad of ways that one can connect in the new millennium. This article will focus on two of the most prominent websites: LinkedIn and Facebook. From the standpoint of business use vs. personal/social use, these two website tools are at the opposite end of the spectrum. LinkedIn’s percentage is decidedly 80/20 business, while Facebook skews 80/20 social; yet both have specific value for you and your business. Get Linked In The basic LinkedIn service is free, allowing you to fill out a profile that looks and feels much like a professional resume. It can go deeper, though, with queries about organization involvement, extra curricular activities and more. Looking at people’s profiles, the feature that jumps out at you immediately is the inclusion of “recommendations.” The LinkedIn system makes it very easy to receive and give recommendations. Once you have filled out a profile, you can easily search the LinkedIn database for people you know. One click of a button, and you can invite someone to be your friend. You can also personalize the invitation with short note, if you wish. Then, the recipient can approve your friendship status, which on LinkedIn is called a 20
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“Connection.” Once connected, you can also see all of the other person’s connections, including their profiles. A number of synergistic opportunities arise in this system. You come across people in your business past, who you’ve lost track of, and get reconnected. You give and receive recommendations. You can have your connections introduce you to people that they know. This is especially helpful, and often happens after you view someone’s profile and it becomes obvious that you have common interests.
The number of connections or friends is not the important outcome; the quality of these relationships is what counts. LinkedIn is also good for research. Sometimes it’s a challenge just to find out who holds a position at particular hotel, for example. If the person you’re looking for is a LinkedIn member, you’ll find them easily. Face Time Online Facebook, on the other hand is all about social interaction. While one does fill out an online profile, the major emphasis is about what you’re up to, in your personal world. Making the connection with a friend is as easy as with LinkedIn. Search the database by name, and make the invitation. As you build your
“Friends List,” Facebook even suggests people you might know. The site encourages you to uploaded photos, join Fan Groups for your favorite band, movie or celebrity (just a few examples), and tell the world what you’re doing right now. This type of “status line” is common to social networking sites, such as MySpace, LinkedIn and others. Sharing social information and random thoughts gives people who think they know you a more complete window into your world. You can post/share as little or as much as you choose, and it’s fun to see the comments posted, in response to your thoughts. Giving You the Business There is a business side to social networking. Knowing that a peer has kids or loves country music or went to college in your hometown is important. It creates a lot of common ground that is essential to building a more complete relationship, in addition to your business connection. All you need to do is notice these things, actively or passively. Proper protocol is an important part of social networking. The number of connections or friends is not the important outcome; the quality of these relationships is what counts. At first, just connect with people you really know. Then (particularly on LinkedIn) introductions can occur organically. Don’t just ask anyone to be a friend or connection. You will get rebuffed. Each of these sites has many features beyond what is outlined here. The best way to understand how they work is to sign up and explore at both LinkedIn.com and Facebook.com. Your existing relationships will immediately be enhanced. New friendships and business opportunities will follow. MB Andy Ebon authors The Wedding Marketing Blog (http:// www.TheWeddingMarketingBlog.com), which is also syndicated on MobileBeat.com.
djbuyingguide
COMPUTER SOFTWARE
FEATURED PRODUCTS
DJPOWER
MDB2000 MUSIC DATABASE
...is the perfect tool for the modern mobile DJ and VJ. It is the only system that not only mixes MP3s but also video and karaoke, plus DVD to MPEG. Features real-time Video Beat Mixing (with Special FX and real-time camera) without help from any external hardware. Assign each song to a different light program, a different mix profile, a different image and/or to a different message and save it all for next time. Complete DJ system in one box can be controlled by a radio remote control from 200 feet away—even though walls! Find and run tracks and videos in less than 3 seconds. Way too many great features to list here…visit website for info and demo.
Great software to organize your music collection or music library! For DJs, Music Collectors, Radio Stations, Entertainers, Musicians, and more. Features a wide variety of powerful search functions...Find songs in just seconds. Great for organizing almost any inventory of products and information where you need fast lookup and easy data entry. Features CDDB-2™ Internet database access. Just insert your audio CD and get track listings automatically. It can also look up albums without the CD. Export your song list to www. djintelligence.com. Great for clients to view/browse your database on-line in a searchable easy to use format.
www.djpower.com
www.musicdatabasesoftware.com
The Computerized DJ
How to Pick Your Software Tech expert cuts through the jungle of software choices with some sharp practical advice By Dr. Drax
W
ell, here we are eight years into the new millennium. What can we say about how we’ve progressed™ In just 10 short years, we have gone from storing a few hundred MP3s to storing tens of thousands on a single hard drive. One might ask, “What will the next 10 years bring™” We are already seeing a high rate of change, in fact, a more significant change in the last two years than we experienced in the previous eight. The continuing expansion of technological and software systems will literally revolutionize how we do what we do.
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MFGR.
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
USE
American Audio
Versa Mix
MP3 Mixing Software Kit
Digital DJ
PC
Yes
No
$129.95
DJ Webmin
DJ Webmin Lite
DJ Webmin is a friendly web-based program with an easyto-use interface, navigation menu and employee controlling that makes it a must for event booking companies of any size. Add/Edit/Delete bookings and tailor it to your needs.
Business
Web-Based
N/A
N/A
$49.00
DJ Webmin
DJ Webmin Pro
Business
Web-Based
N/A
N/A
$119.00
DJPower International LLC
DJPower
DJPower is the perfect tool for the modern mobile DJ and VJ. DJPower is the only system out there that not only mixes mp3 but also mixes video and karaoke, plus DVD to MPEG.
Digital DJ
PC
Yes
Yes
$425.00
Gem Sound
GROOVE
Groove easily enables you to professionally mix, organize and navigate through your MP3, WMA, OGG Vorbis and WAVE files to create the ultimate playlists, technical mixes and flexible background music.
Digital DJ
PC
No
No
$99.99
Intelligence Inc.
DJ Intelligence
DJ Intelligence offers over a dozen highly interactive tools that add on to any existing DJ website, including tools for receiving leads, booking shows, and complete event planning for your clients. They integrate into any existing website in minutes, regardless of site design or hosting.
Business
Web-Based
N/A
N/A
$99.95
MegaSeg/ Fidelity Media
MegaSeg
MegaSeg is a stable and powerful DJ mixing program that runs on user-friendly Macs, with intuitive management of song rotation, timed playlist events, Hot Keys for sound effects, Rules for artist separation, Request Lists with reminder notes, and play history logs. MegaSeg is compatible with iTunes and iPods, including purchased music from the iTunes Store.
Digital DJ
Mac
No
Yes
$249.00
MixMeister Technology
MixMeister BPM Analyzer
MixMeister BPM Analyzer is a free program you can use to determine the exact BPM (beats per minute) of any song. It allows you to: Calculate extremely accurate BPM counts for any song; drag and drop music files from Windows Explorer; display and sort files by Title, Artist, or BPM.
Digital DJ
PC
No
No
N/S
MixMeister Technology
MixMeister Express
The fastest way to create pro-quality mix CDs. MixMeister Express 6 is a powerful tool that you can use to create a professional-sounding mix from your music files with a minimum of effort. Express is used every day by dance music fans, party DJs, fitness instructors and choreographers.
Digital DJ
PC
No
No
$49.95
MixMeister Technology
MixMeister Fusion
Version 7.2 includes an enhanced timeline, improved time-stretching and support for Mac OS X. Fusion is designed to mix complete DJ sets from full-length songs. You get the functionality of a loop editor or digital audio workstation, but you can blend songs together to create stunning DJ performances.
Digital DJ
PC
No
Yes
$329.95
MixMeister Technology
MixMeister Studio
A powerful DJ sequencer that gives you greater ability to expand your creativity and produce mixes beyond traditional mixing and blending. Allows users to reconfigure a mix with a workflow similar to a DAW (digital audio workstation). This innovative approach makes it possible for a full-length mix to be constructed and produced on-screen. Mix up to eight songs simultaneously and take advantage of the powerful features such as intelligent looping and the ability to overlay samples and sound effects.
Digital DJ
PC
No
No
$169.95
Music Database Software
EPS-Pro3000 Event Planning Software
This event planning software is great for professional event planners, wedding planners, corporate event planners or single vendors/merchants like magicians and DJs. www. eventplanningsoftware.com
Business
Web-Based
N/A
N/A
$120.00
Music Database Software
MDB2000 Music Database Software
Great software to organize your music collection or music library!
Digital DJ
PC
N/A
N/A
$39.95
Music Magic
Music Magic
Music Magic was designed to help the professional DJ cope with his/her dynamically changing database of songs.
Digital DJ
PC
No
No
$109.99
PLATFORM
MP3+G?
MPEG VIDEO?
PRICE*
*Prices listed are “street prices� and are subject to change at any time. m o b i l e:b e a t
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COMPUTER SOFTWARE
COMPUTER SOFTWARE
djbuyingguide The software you choose should give you great flexibility in organizing your library the way you wish, rather than constraining you to a specific organizational structure. Priority One: Performance Style When considering digital DJ software several key elements need to be outlined as we discuss our choices. Are you a hands-on, club-style mixer focused on the tactile feedback of platters™ Or are you satisfied with semi-automatic functionality that allows you to spend more time out on the floor working the crowd, making announcements, leading interactive elements, etc.™ In other words, one of your prime considerations is the way you perform. With the answer to this basic question, you can start to lay out the choices that are available to you. I have always said that rather than the debate which platform to run (Mac or PC) or what might be the best hardware configuration, you should instead choose the software you want to use and then select the hardware that most appropriately runs that software. For those who desire a traditional interface, comparable to two turntables or two discrete CD players, there are numerous product offerings—too many to name without fear of leaving someone out. The same holds true for those looking for a functional automated interface in which they can program the entire night’s play list, add requests when needed, and spend the bulk their time interacting with guests.
Once you have somewhat defined your DJ style, selecting a tool that best fit your needs becomes a matter of trial and error. I would strongly suggest downloading the demos of the respective progs you’re interested in, and loading them up on a platform comparable to the software’s recommended setup. Another method is finding users who are currently working with the tools you are looking at, and asking if you can shadow them, as well as getting their opinions. Their satisfaction level is important, as they are real-world users of the product, not salespeople. Some questions you might ask: How difficult was it to become proficient with the software™ How long does it take to understand the basic nuances of the interface™ Does the software allow for introduction of various file types, or is it constrained to a single file type™ Does it allow you to go from a dual-deck, beatmixing format to a single-player format™ Expanding Your Search As the hardware makes storage of more and more tracks possible, an increasingly important question is, how easy is it to search using the prospective software™ For example, can you do concatenated searching, using a combination of terms™ An example of this would be searching for every disco song from the year 1979 that was number one on the Billboard Top 40, with the BPM of 100. While you may never have to get quite so focused, having the ability to do so is a powerful tool to build the quality of your performance sets. Another thing you need to consider is how is the program’s database (often described as a “record case” or other type of physical storage) is structured. Is it established in such a way that makes logical and intuitive sense to you™ Or does it require you to learn a whole new way of living or a whole new language™ Look for tools with strong relational database capability. This is easily reflected in the structure of the record case or library, how information is presented to you, and how easily you can search through that information.
An organizational area that I feel is key in the adoption of a basic MP3 software player is the utilization and proper handling of ID3 tags. These are pieces of information appended to the MP3 file, which provide information such as artist, title, genre, BPM, or other bits of interesting information about the track. Failure to handle ID3 tags properly is a great restriction. I would avoid any tool that did not fully utilize ID3 tags. One place where I think most DJs make a mistake in utilizing software, is organizing their music in the same way they organize their CDs. By doing this, one loses a great deal of the power of computing, as it doesn’t make sense to create separate folders for every single CD or album in your library. Rather, I think it makes more sense to organize your music library files by things like genre and decade. After all, it will be rare that somebody will come up and ask you for a song from a specific album or CD. They will ask you things like: “Can you play some old school funk™” “Do you have any hip-hop™” “Do you have any good ‘60s music™” Most requesters will either identify a specific song (apart from the original album name) an artist or genre. The bottom line is, the software you choose should give you great flexibility in organizing your library the way you wish, rather than constraining you to a specific organizational structure, which might impede your ability to think naturally, logically and creatively in locating desired songs. Standing on the Platform Does the software run on both Mac and PC™ That can be important, especially if you utilize both hardware platforms. Some of my colleagues are diehard Mac fans; for them it is very important that the tool of choice operates stably and well on the Macintosh platform. Likewise, my PCbased colleagues are more concerned with PC stability and expanded feature sets, and the ability to play any kind of file. Personally, I would not use any DJ software that would restrict my ability to utilize any file formats or media types that may evolve or develop as time goes on. While most started with MP3s, it’s time for us to look forward to newer file formats, such as the lossless FLAC format and others. I would look for tools that promise to be on the cusp of adoption of new file CONTINUED ON PAGE 28
24
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gear guide 2008
MFGR.
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
USE
MPEG VIDEO?
PRICE*
Music Magic
PMP
3 Programs in one: MP3 Ripper and tagger; database generator and MP3 organizer for hard drives; and a full MP3 digital mixer.
Digital DJ
PC
N/A
N/A
$115.00
Numark
Grand VJ
ArKaos GrandVJ is the finest video-mixing and live-performance software for VJs, DJs, musicians, events, and clubs. In addition to versatile performance capabilities, GrandVJ is an excellent program for creating music videos from existing content or from scratch.
Digital DJ
PC ¶ Mac
N/A
N/A
$399.00
Numark
MixMeister Fusion
See above under Mixmeister Technology
Digital DJ
PC & Mac
N/A
N/A
$299.00
Numark
MixMeister Studio
See above under Mixmeister Technology
Digital DJ
PC & Mac
N/A
N/A
$169.00
Ots Labs
Ots CD Scratch 1200 Free Edition
CD Scratch is a FREE, funky and incredibly fun “Virtual Turntables CD Player” performing the seemingly impossible... Play two songs from the same CD at the same time—one forwards and one in reverse! Scratch a CD track back and forth like a record, or listen to your favorite CD automatically mixed between the turntables. Enjoy the optional warm vinyl-crackle ambience on your latest CD.
Digital DJ
PC
N/A
N/A
N/S
Ots Labs
Ots Studio
Ots Studio is a free application which allows for the creation and manipulation of Ots Media Files directly from audio CDs, MP3 / MP2 / MPEG1-video / MPEG2-video / unencrypted VOB, and other file formats. You can edit most aspects of Ots files, including title and artist info, mix points, auto beat mixing points, album coverart, aspect ratio, etc.
Digital DJ
PC
N/A
N/A
N/S
Ots Labs
OtsAV DJ Pro 1.85
Digital DJ
PC
Yes
Yes
$299.95
Ots Labs
OtsAV DJ Silver 1.85
Digital DJ
PC
N/A
N/A
$199.95
Ots Labs
OtsAV Free
Premier audio and video playback mixing software, with powerful automation and manual control flexibility.
Digital DJ
PC
No
No
N/S
Ots Labs
OtsAV Pro
OtsAV Pro is a complete professional AV software solution. With audio, video, karaoke CD+G playback, automated beat mixing, powerful media library, scheduling & logging, 24/7 unattended playback, high quality time-scaling (±200%), continuous flow automixing, smooth audio, etc. Ideal for pro DJs, radio stations, and many others. Total flexibility, from completely manual to completely automated operation.
Digital DJ
PC
Yes
Yes
$299.95
Ots Labs
OtsTurntables Free
OtsTurntables Free is a 100% FREE (no spyware, no banner ads), virtual set of professional mixing turntables empowering music lovers, aspiring DJs and pros to scratch, adjust tempo and pitch, play backwards, and mix MP3s, WAVs, Ots files and CDs. DJ your next party like a pro, or just enjoy listening to your professionally MP3s at home.
Digital DJ
PC
N/A
N/A
N/S
PCDJ - Digital One Audio
PCDJ DEX
PCDJ DEX is a computer mixing program for both beginning and professional DJ’s. Mix your MP3, OGG, WMA, FLAC, WAV files or audio CDs easily on any configuration.
Digital DJ
PC And Mac
No
N/A
$199.99
PCDJ - Digital One Audio
PCDJ DMX
Create an astonishing light show easily at your club, mobile DJ event or any large venue. A complete light control solution for the pro DJ or nightclub in the most demanding conditions.
Digital DJ
PC
N/A
N/A
$399.00
PCDJ - Digital One Audio
PCDJ Fx
Offers an array of new features, including a brand new recordcase design, full screen interface, changeable skins and easy visible one-button features that give the user the power to control the music, and the dance floor. With VRM technology.
Digital DJ
PC
Yes
No
$299.95
PCDJ - Digital One Audio
PCDJ Reflex
High-end DJ performance software
Digital DJ
PC And Mac
Yes
No
$279.00
PCDJ - Digital One Audio
PCDJ Reflex
Whether you’re a Club DJ, Turntablist, Producer, or Mobile DJ, Reflex offers the rock solid features you’ve been asking for, with the flexibility you’ve only dreamed of.
Digital DJ
PC And Mac
No
N/A
$279.00
PLATFORM
MP3+G?
m o b i l e:b e a t
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25
COMPUTER SOFTWARE
COMPUTER SOFTWARE
COMPUTER SOFTWARE
COMPUTER SOFTWARE MFGR.
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
USE
MPEG VIDEO?
PRICE*
PCDJ - Digital One Audio
PCDJ VJ
PCDJ VJ is a complete, reliable software package that offers total live performance. DJ, VJ, and KJ all from one comprehensive interface that’s easy enough to use for the beginner, but with all the features the pros need and want.
Digital DJ
PC
Yes
N/A
$199.99
Rane Corporation
Serato Scratch LIVE
Scratch LIVE is the ultimate software and hardware solution for bridging the analog world of vinyl and the digital world of computer audio files. Using regular turntables or CD players, you can scratch and mix files from CD or hard drive, add in a live mic input for scratching, and even bypass to standard vinyl if you wish. Scratch LIVE is the complete digital solution for the vinyl junkie -- take your entire collection wherever you go and leave your precious vinyl at home!
Digital DJ
PC And Mac
No
No
$725.00
Rane Corporation
Serato Video-SL
Video-SL is a software plug-in for Scratch LIVE which adds the ability to playback and mix video files with the Rane T™ 57SL mixer.
Digital DJ
PC And Mac
N/A
N/A
$199.99
Softjock
Rockit Pro DJ Software v4
VERSION 4.1 - The Best DJ Software Around! - More skins, more features, still the same low price!
Digital DJ
PC
N/A
Yes
$129.95
TriceraSoft
Elite Manager
TriceraSoft Elite Manager™ is provided as either an addon to Swift Elite 3 (or higher) or a stanalone Management Program for Entertainers to enter Bookings, Customers, Venues, Accounts Receivables, and more. Book your customer while right on the job and have easy access to your Calendar of Events.
Business
PC
N/A
N/A
$299.95
TriceraSoft
JustKaraoke 1.0
TriceraSoft JustKaraoke™ 1.0 is a straight-forward nononsense karaoke control solution. Go digital easily and in confidence with this inexpensive yet professional and simple to use solution. Announce the singer, play the song, clap, and proceed through the rotation. Need to recall the singer from last week? No Problem! Bring up the history and drop in a song, it even remembers the key and multiplex option you used for that singer.
Digital DJ
PC
Yes
Yes
$24.95
TriceraSoft
Swift Elite 4.0
Swift Elite 4.0 is the Complete Entertainment Solution™ for the PC brought to you by TriceraSoft, the creators of the MP3+G Karaoke Format. Host any Video, Audio, Karaoke or combined show with ease. Bring the Power of Video, VCD, DVD, CD+G, CD-Audio, Karaoke Media Files (Audio+G), Audio files, and Video Sources (Cameras, DV) into one awesome program. Automate your show or take full control - enable your Auto Crossfade, Next Singer display, Queue mode, and Playlist presets and let it go. Includes all importing tools, CD+G Disc playback and ripping tools, export songbook creator, very cool transitions, slideshow, next singer features, and much more...
Digital DJ
PC
Yes
Yes
$199.95
TriceraSoft
Swift Pro 2
Swift Pro 2.0 is the ultimate Karaoke Hosting Solution for users who wish to command the show using Audio and Karaoke. Host any DJ or KJ show at the click of a mouse pointer. Bring the Power of CD+G, CD-Audio, Karaoke Media Files (Audio+G), Audio files, and Video Sources (Cameras, DV) into one place.
Digital DJ
PC
Yes
Yes
$99.95
TriceraSoft
Swift Pro V
Swift Pro V is the ultimate Video Hosting Solution for users who wish to command the show using Audio and Karaoke but also have the basics for Video capable playback and mixing. Host any DJ, KJ, or VJ show at the click of a mouse pointer. Bring the Power of CD+G, CD-Audio, Karaoke Media Files (Audio+G), Audio files, and Video Files into one program. Automate your show or take full control with Auto Crossfade, Next Singer display, Queue mode, and Playlist presets and let it go. Includes importing tools for Audio and CD+G Karaoke, export songbook creator, next singer features, and much more...
Digital DJ
PC
Yes
Yes
$149.95
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PLATFORM
MP3+G?
djbuyingguide CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24
formats, which provide increased fidelity, while still retaining significantly smaller file size in comparison to WAV files. Visual Stimulation Another thing that is of great importance to DJs today is the integration of video. I think at this point any software platform one might consider buying should offer some utilization of video. Most people under the age of 30 have never known a song without a video. Plus, video can be a great enhancement to the overall atmosphere of your events, even if you’re not using music videos. Ambient video can do a lot to accent the energy and style of the performance. However, it should be noted that requiring video will restrict some of your choices in playback software, so you really have to make a decision about the things that are most important to you. In my opinion, video isn’t the future…video is today! While you don’t always have to use video in your presentations, it is a wonderful feature to have available, when the time is right. What is actually the “next big thing™” That would be integrated SMS messaging, which allows for direct audience interaction with the DJ and others via texting. Look for tools that combine integrated SMS messaging with playback and request visualizations. Some degree of remote-control capability is important too. Nothing is cooler than taking requests and initiating playback from the dance floor, or as you wander through the crowd during dinner! How Do You Take Your Tracks— Prepared or Instant™ Something that I believe all DJ performance software should have is the ability to implement hot buttons or instantaneous playback of effects loops or even entire tracks; maybe even an entire play list. The ability to be mixing along and hit a button and trigger a “shout out” or other premade “drop-in” or loop is clearly impressive, as is the ability to hit special effects files. All while you’re mixing multiple songs together. These can be great energy-builders at your events. They can also function as quick keys to get to specific songs, such as a first dance, father-daughter song, or coronation dance. On the performance prep side, a key element in the software is the ability to create, store, 28
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search and recall play lists. One of the things I enjoy most about the software I use is the ability to store the play list from that night’s performance. That way, when I perform for that group again, I have a good idea of what worked the last time. And on Monday after the event, it gives me a great way to go back and review what actually was played, how and when it was played, and to
One place where I think most DJs make a mistake in utilizing software, is organizing their music in the same way they organize their CDs. reflect upon songs or mixes that did or did not work. This can be a great help in tuning your mixing style and finding the songs that work well together repeatedly. Play lists allow you to take advance requests and suggestions, and to build a basic framework of the musical entertainment for that night from the information the client has provided on the planning forms. For example, if you know that most of the crowd likes country, you would probably not play mostly hip-hop. Rather, you would build a play list of mostly country, interjecting other styles, genres and tempos consistent with the information provided. Say you do a corporate event for a company for a number of years. Play lists allow you to look back and see the elements that worked and the elements that didn’t. This, in turn, should allow you to make each subsequent event better than the year before. This adds tremendous value to your services in the eyes of the client, because you are continually “tuning in,” making the event better from a musical point of view.
This is not to say that you simply preprogram the entire evening’s music selections. Instead, think of it as a foundational building block on which you can start, and then adjust according to the to the crowd response and the overall tone of the evening. I do not agree with DJs who simply build a play list, push play and leave. However, play lists can be very important tools in learning to understand your crowd. DJ Evolution: Transitional Forms For many DJs out there, the fear of leaving the hardware-based interface is substantial. They become locked in indecision, not able to move forward but not desiring to remain where they are or go backwards. Now is the time to make a leap forward and start moving into the next generation of technology platforms, which can facilitate better performance and lighter loads and greater customer service at being able to easily locate and play any song from a very large library of tracks. For those caught in the bonds of indecision, there are many great hardware controller options or standalone hardware player devices that one could step into with a degree of familiarity, while still advancing in using new technologies and file formats. These devices allow you to attach storage such as USB hard drives, iPods or others, and play the music directly from those media through the controller interface. This is a very comfortable option for many DJs moving from CDs, as it provides a familiar interface and tactile control mechanism, while still bringing the advantages of contemporary media file formats. After some time, though, I believe most adopters of this technology will eventually want to move toward a computer-based interface. Because of the expanded storage options, the enhanced search functionality available through software control will never be fully accessible and comfortable to use with the small screens of dedicated hardware controllers. This is why I recommend strongly to those starting out with a hardware controller-based interface that they look for one that readily adapts to a variety of software platforms. This gives truly the best of both worlds: One can start from a position of comfort in the dual-tray controller mode, but can easily switch over to completely computer-based performance.
Further Help As you test the waters of DJ software choices, be sure to visit the New Millennium DJ forum at ProDJ.com. There you will find significant resources regarding playback software, as well as software tools to rip, encode, and edit the file name and tag structure of the digital files you will create and manage. Mobile Beat conferences also regularly feature computer DJ seminars with a high level of educational content. Additionally, consider attending a Computer Performance System Summit (www.computerdjsummit.com). This yearly three-day event is wholly dedicated
to the use of computer-based performance tools. You’ll learn more in three days than you could in three years. Attend tradeshows or other events where software is on display is a great way to get a short test drive, with helpful company reps on hand to answer questions. The downside to this, however, is that without some understanding of the nuances of the software, you may be inclined to discount a product that would be favorably impressive to you, given a bit more time. Every software platform will have a learning curve. The more time you’re willing to invest to learn, the
more you can unlock the power and feature set it provides. In test-driving DJ software, look for where it’s going not where it’s been. Visit the user forums for the respective tools of interest to you. This will allow you the opportunity to meet many users with diverse experience and backgrounds, who can assist you in understanding the real uses and challenges of the tools you’re considering. The main thing to consider is this: It’s time to get into the new millennium! Now is the time…make the move…convert to a computer performance system. It’s a decision you will never regret. Your future awaits! MB
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DIGITAL MEDIA CONTROLLERS AMERICAN AUDIO
SDJ-2 Dual SD Player with Built-in Digital Mixer
Going mobile has never been easier…your whole night’s music can fit on one SD card! (Fit up to 1000 MP3s at 128 bit rate on a 1G SD.) Perform with no external hard drives, laptops, MP3 players or software needed. Supports SDHC Cards and Standard SD Cards. Features dual SD card slots and a USB port to connect other devices if wanted. Find tracks easily with Folder Search. Regular CD player-style features included, such as: Auto BPM; Seamless Loop; Tempo Lock; Fader “Q” Start; Pitch Control (±4%, 8% or 16%); Pitch Bend; and more. Balanced 1/4” TRS and RCA mixed outputs. www.americanaudio.us
Designed in collaboration with Serato, NS7 combines an allmetal chassis with adjustable torque, motorized, aluminumturntable platters, vinyl, and a pro audio interface. A full complement of premium faders, knobs, buttons and Numark’s new Strip Search (patent pending) virtual-needle-drop control integrate seamlessly with the included Serato ITCH software. NS7 delivers hands-on control of every aspect of Serato ITCH, providing a rock-solid hardware/software DJ system that works with Mac or PC and feels as good as it looks. www.numark.com
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PIONEER PRO DJ
MEP-7000 Multi-Entertainment Player CDJ series, the MEP-7000 reads CD/CD-ROM/DVD-ROM as well as USB media. Features a 4.3” color LCD screen, intelligent user interface and rotary selector for rapid track search through large collections. Includes DJS software application for playback from a Windows PC, eliminating need for mouse or keyboard for performance. Supports control of other software, such as Serato Scratch Live 4. Other functions include: Karaoke Mode with full CD+G playback; Tempo Control (±6, 10,16%, and WIDE8); Pitch Bend; Seamless Loop. www.pioneerprodj.com
VESTAX
NUMARK
NS7 Performance Controller
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FEATURED PRODUCTS
VCI-300 DJ Controller Sharing technology and feedback from pro DJs around the world, Vestax and Serato have created a dedicated USB MIDI controller for Serato DJ software. A built-in audio interface has a standard 4-in/4-out configuration headphone connection…which means all you need for DJing is the VCI300, a laptop and a set of headphones. An Emergency Thru Switch lets you choose between using the VCI-300 with the provided ITCH software or sans computer if you simply want to play music from your external CD or MP3 player. The responsive jog wheel has an adjustable torque mechanism www.vestax.com
2008
DIGITAL MEDIA CONTROLLERS
DIGITAL MEDIA CONTROLLERS MFGR.
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
PRICE
American Audio
Media Operator
The American Audio, Media Operator is a fast, simple and reliable all-in-one MP3 media player designed for permanent installation were easy control of music is a must (ie. restaurants, fitness studios, retail locations, etc.) - great for mobile entertainers too. The Media Operator offers digital playback from SD cards or USB sticks/ drives. The Media Operator includes full MP3 playback control as well as a microphone input (XLR/1/4” combo), master volume control and two line out options. Plug the unit directly into powered speakers or an amplifier through the balanced XLR outs, or go to a preamp mixer from its RCA outputs.
$399.95
American Audio
SDJ-2
Going Mobile Has Never Been Easier, than with this Professional Dual SD Player with Built-in Digital mixer. Your whole night’s music can fit on one SD card.
$599.95
Behringer USA Inc.
B-CONTROL DEEJAY BCD3000
Next-Generation DJ Machine—Play, Mix, Perform and Scratch Your MP3 Files like Vinyl Records
$199.99
Cortex
CTRL-R1
Powered by Cortex’s patent-pending USB compatible technology, the CTRL-R1 Digital Music Controller is driven by the same engine as the brand’s groundbreaking HDC-1000 Dual Digital Music Controller. Featuring full CBR and VBR MP3 and WAV compatibility offering complete iPo
$349.00
Cortex
CTRL-R3
CTRL-R3 is driven by the same engine as the brand’s groundbreaking HDC1000 Dual Digital Music Controller. Featuring full CBR and VBR MP3 and WAV compatibility offering complete iPod Playlist functionality, the CTRL-R3 Digital Music Controller also utilizes Cortex’s uniq
$599.00
Cortex
dMIX-300
The dMIX-300 Digital Music Control Station integrates the power of Cortex’s patent-pending USB compatible technology with the convenient digital music capacity of Apple’s iPod’ and a 2-Channel mixer into one compact, easy-to-carry, all-in-one digital mixing solution.Featu
$499.00
Cortex
dMIX-600
Built around the same engine as Cortex’s groundbreaking HDC-1000 Dual Digital Music Controller, the dMIX-600 Digital Music Control Station features an iPod’ dock, two Dual Mode Jog Wheels for search or pitch bend, two 80 character dot matrix playback info displays, USB keyboard
$649.99
Cortex
HDC-1000
Using USB compatibility to give DJs the power to cue up, play, pitch, manipulate, scratch and search digital music files like never before, HDC-1000 users can access their music collections utilizing a wide array of storage devices including the iPod®, external USB hard-drives and flash dri
$399.00
Cortex
HDC-3000
The HDC-3000 uses USB compatibility enabling DJs to cue up, play, pitch, manipulate, and search digital music files via Cortex’s patent pending ‘intelligent music database management’ system, allowing users to access their music collections with a wide array of storage
$799.00
Cortex
HDC-500
Digital Jukebox
$279.99
Cortex
HDTT-5000
Denon DJ
DN-HC4500
Ever since the needle hit vinyl, DJ’s have been setting the standard for what’s hot. Denon comes from that same philosophy and passion’leading the way and creating the path for DJ evolution. That path has lead to the DN-HC4500, Denon’s first USB MIDI/Audio interface designed exclusively for computer performance club and mobile DJs worldwide. This feature packed professional PC/MAC compatible controller combines unmatched hardware performance with internal high quality audio processing offering low latency ASIO/OSX Core Audio support.
N/S
Denon DJ
DN-HD2500
A hard-drive based, professional media player and controller offering a total allin-one ‘nerve center’ that addresses and actually anticipates ever changing needs. Flexible and packed with features, the DN-HD2500 is built for any event where professional-quality and flawless performance is expected.
N/S
Denon DJ
DN-HS5500 CD
One of the most riveting features of the DN-HS5500 is its independent Dual Deck-like operation with separate audio outputs. Deck 1 & Deck 2 can be operated simultaneously by a simple flip of a button, offering twice the power & creativity in a single deck. Each Deck layer has full access to all the available features as well as your connected devices & music library. Additionally, when used as a MIDI controller each Deck layer can fully control 2 players from your favorite audio/video DJ software!
$920.00
Denon DJ
DN-S1200
Brand new and weighing in at a mere 9 pounds, Denon’s smallest CD/USB Media player packs high-end features not found in much larger units. Smaller is better.
$600.00
$699.99
Hercules
DJ Console RMX
Cutting Edge Dj Controller With built-in Audio for live and studio use.
$310.00
Hercules
DJ Control Steel
Dual mixing decks on a steel surface
N/S
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djbuyingguide
Digital Media Controllers: the New Paradigm There are more and more ways to do the digital DJ thing
T
By Marc Andrews
oday’s DJs are faced with many choices from software and MIDI controllers to Media players that play MP3’s WAV’s, AAC’s and more. Gone are the days where all that was required was two Technics 1200’s and a 2-ch mixer. In a short amount of time the tools of the trade have greatly changed. Prior to making an investment into this new technology there are a few important questions to consider. Would I prefer to use a computer in my setup or not™ Is my current computer fast enough or will I need a new one™ Do I need it to be rack-mounted™ Can I use my existing mixer with it™ What other components will be required™ A media controller is a good option for someone who already owns a laptop. A fairly powerful laptop will be required to run the necessary DJ software which will power a USB controller based system. When using a media controller the audio is played from the computer or attached storage device as the on-screen DJ software is controlled via MIDI over USB by the controller. Essentially the controller is just an extension of the software’s on-screen capabilities. If you plan on taking this route, be prepared 32
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to invest in an audio interface and DJ software as well. Most controllers will include a trial or Limited version of software which usually has restrictions that prevent you from using it the way you’d need. The full version will offer more control. The audio interface is needed for sound output to your amp, mixer or powered speakers as the headphone output on your computer will not suffice. Most importantly, be sure to choose your software prior to purchasing your controller. Choosing your software first will allow you to narrow down your options. There are some controllers that need to be midi mapped out for specific progs. Some progs, however, are pre-mapped for the more popular controllers therefore requiring no additional midi programming (you’ll thank me later). A media player differs from a media controller, as it does not require a computer to function. It also has dedicated line outputs to connect to your mixer. It will easily integrate into your system by replacing your current CD player(s). The only additional items that are recommended are a USB keyboard (for searching), a USB hub (to connect multiple devices) and a hard drive (to store your music). You can even utilize your ipod as your main music source so a hard drive may not be necessary. Keep in mind that there are many types of media players available. There are players that run off of external USB drives only. There are also some players that offer built in hard drives as well as an included or optional disc drive, which will allow you to use your existing CD collection or rip your music directly into the unit. There are even units with built in mixers and units which will allow you full control over your existing dual
If you favor a particular manufacturer, you should be able to find a solid option within that brand. deck CD drives. When upgrading or investing in your first system, today’s digital offerings give you many options. Choosing which system to go with can be overwhelming but being able to narrow it down is the key to selecting the right piece for you. Just about every manufacturer has at least one unit that will function with digital media. If you favor a particular manufacturer, you should be able to find a solid option within that brand as these players are sure to be the standard for years to come. Only you will know which choice suits you best. These are merely guidelines to lead you in the right direction and put you in a position to make an informed decision. One thing that’s sure: A digital media controller will transform your digitized music collection into an easy-access, portable library that can go with you...everywhere. MB
DIGITAL MEDIA CONTROLLERS
DIGITAL MEDIA CONTROLLERS MFGR.
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
PRICE
Korg USA
microKONTROL MIDI Studio Controller
The Korg microKONTROL MIDI Studio Controller is the ultimate portable MIDI keyboard controller, providing every function and type of control you need for computer - based music production or performance. With a compact and sophisticatedlooking design, it includes a three-octave keyboard (37 note mini keyboard), eight encoders, eight sliders, and sixteen trigger pads that you can use to control your favorite soft synths, DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), or other musical tools such as external MIDI sound modules. It is the perfect choice for making music on the go thanks to its compact design, and it will fit into the tightest performance space. The microKONTROL also comes bundled with 5 cutting edge software products.
$375.00
Korg USA
padKONTROL MIDI Studio Controller
The padKONTROL joins Korg’s expanding line-up of MIDI studio controllers. Adding another dimension beyond traditional keyboard control, the padKONTROL is the most expressive and versatile pad controller ever! In addition to accessing drum sounds and samples, the padKONTROL can also control soft synths and effects, trigger loops and video clips, and even act as transport controls for DAW software progs. Combining an assignable X-Y touchpad that also provides for natural-sounding flams and rolls, sixteen great-feeling illuminated trigger pads, assignable knobs and a footpedal input, the padKONTROL provides unsurpassed evocative control.
$299.00
MARATHON
XO-23
2-Way Stereo 3-Way Mono Crossover
$99.99
MARATHON
XO-34
3-Way Stereo 4-Way Mono Crossover Plus Subwoofer Control
$129.99
M-Audio
Torq Xponent
Torq Xponent is a cutting-edge performance system that brings professionalgrade control to the world of the computer-based DJ. Engineered by M-Audio’s SynchroScience Design Group, the package includes the Torq DJ software that’s revolutionizing digital DJing and the Xponent hardware control surface that puts all that power right at your fingertips. With full-size tactile controls, an integrated USB audio interface and intuitive MIDI-learn capabilities, Torq Xponent bridges the gap between traditional DJ hardware and today’s powerful performance software once and for all. This completely integrated system combines the features of a standard two-ch DJ mixer with the controls of a pair of DJ CD players, letting you cue, mix and scratch digital files without touching the host computer.
$749.95
M-Audio
X-Session Pro
The X-Session Pro USB MIDI controller is the easiest way to bring traditional DJ mixer-style control to the world of computer DJing and live performance. With a single USB connection, you get dedicated tactile controls for volume, pitch, EQ, cueing, transport and a crossfader. As a class-compliant USB MIDI controller, you can use it to control Torq LE DJ software, as well as the full version of Torq, Ableton Live, Traktor DJ Studio or any application that supports MIDI Learn. Start bringing DJ-inspired crossfades and filter sweeps into your live performances and studio productions right away.
$129.95
Novation
XioSynth
Novation’s newest synth, the XioSynth is an integrated synthesizer, audio interface, and MIDI controller. Features include a mono-timbral Novation synth engine with 8-voice polyphony, 3 oscillators, 1 Filter, 2 LFOs, an arpeggiator and a multi-effects board. The XioSynth also boasts the b
$549.99
Numark
DDS80
DDS80 blends a familiar professional DJ CD player with new media formats and devices. The CD player features convenient USB ports for connection of modern media devices such as thumb and hard drives, iPods, MP3 players; and an included 80GB removable/upgradeable hard drive stores a limitless library of music. DDS80’s unique blend of media with a high definition color screen and Numark’s intuitive Crate music management software give the mobile DJ incomparable visual control of their music. Carefully crafted around the way DJs work and play, DDS80 takes the questions out of mixing media formats and puts the answers back in the hands of the DJ.
$1,199.00
Numark
HDCD1 Dual CD/MP3 Player
The HDCD1 is a rack-mountable dual CD player with built-in hard drive, capable of storing an entire DJ collection. MP3s and uncompressed audio files can be ripped from CD, transferred from computer over USB, or recorded through analog inputs. Two jumbo displays allow easy navigation for creatio
$1,499.95
Numark
HDMIX
HDMIX gives you everything you need to DJ anywhere. Just add a pair of powered speakers or patch into the house PA, and HDMIX puts everything at your fingertips in a single, rugged console. Built around Numark’s expertise in designing and manufacturing the world’s best DJ mixers, HDMIX has all of the features a professional DJ needs to command their entire performances. But HDMIX isn’t simply a DJ mixer: it’s also a CD player and hard drive media player with standard controls. It’s also an iPod and USB-device mixing station. It’s a powerhouse performance tool that plays MP3 and other digital files from a wide variety of sources.
$999.00
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DIGITAL MEDIA CONTROLLERS
DIGITAL MEDIA CONTROLLERS MFGR.
PRODUCT
Numark
iDJ
The iDJ is a 2–ch mixer that enables mobile DJs and iPod enthusiasts to seamlessly integrate their portable music libraries with other music, video and sound reinforcement systems; thus transforming the iPod from a personal music player into a source playback device. The iDJ’s compact form factor, comprehensive feature set, and onboard controls allow you to manipulate content on any 3rd generation or newer iPod while never leaving the mixer control surface. The iDJ’s backlit blue–on–white design blends perfectly with the iPod, makes the music more accessible and helps you to make the party better than ever.
$149.00
Numark
iDJ2
iDJ2 is the only iPod mixing console that provides full control of your music with a stunning color screen and Numark’s exclusive Crate operating system. All you need is this compact system and an iPod, thumb drive, or USB hard drive to perform with thousands of tracks. It includes professional features like balanced outputs, seamless looping, full cueing, fader start and Keylock, which ensures that DJs can easily change tempo without affecting pitch. The iDJ2 features an 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 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.
$649.95
Numark
MixMesiter Control
Only control surface designed for MixMeister Fusion Live software. You don’t have to worry about making perfect song transitions and aligning loops; MixMeister can do the technical work for you so you can interact with your music—and your audience.
$299.00
Numark
NS7
Designed by Numark in collaboration with Serato, NS7 represents the pinnacle of DJ performance control. NS7 combines an all-metal chassis with adjustable torque, motorized aluminum turntable platters, real vinyl and a professional audio interface to deliver a complete performance solution. A full complement of premium faders, knobs, buttons and our new Strip Search needle drop control integrates seamlessly with the included Serato ITCH software. NS7 delivers hands-on control of every aspect of Serato ITCH and sends data to the software at twice the standard MIDI resolution, resulting in a rock-solid hardware/software DJ system that works with Mac or PC and feels as good as it looks.
$1,299.00
Numark
OMNI CONTROL
OMNI CONTROL contains everything you need to plug into any club’s house PA and perform. This high-quality, heavyweight, rugged DJ device is not only a hardware controller for performing with the included Traktor 3 LE and MixMeister Fusion Live software; it also houses a professional digital-audio interface to feed your headphones and the sound system. OMNI CONTROL enables you to carry less and do more.
$349.00
PCDJ - Digital One Audio
DAC-2
The DAC-2 (Digital Audio Controller) is a pro-grade 2U hardware control unit was one of the first to bridge gap between traditional and digital DJing. The DAC-2 weighs only 6lbs and plugs straight into your PC or Laptop by USB port or you can mount it into your existing system. Plug in the DAC-
$299.95
PCDJ - Digital One Audio
DAC-3
Pioneer ProDJ
DJS
Pioneer’s DJS software was designed for professional and amateur DJs to enable full-scale DJ play on a PC. The software offers the same playability and functionality as the company’s Pro DJ products, using a PC instead of two CDJ turntables and a DJ mixer.
$199.00
Pioneer ProDJ
MEP-7000
The MEP-7000 is perfect for the mobile DJ who doesn’t have much space to work in and wants access to a wide variety of media. Offering the same basic functions and operations as the CDJ series, the MEP-7000 reads CD/CD-ROM/DVD-ROM as well as USB media.
$2,099.00
Pioneer ProDJ
SEP-C1
The SEP-C1 is a dual MP3 DJ controller that controls playback of MP3 music files stored within your PC. This player achieves full-scale DJ performance with CDJ operability, but without the use of a mouse or keyboard.
$1,200.00
Roland Corporation U.S.
Edirol PCR-300 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
Setting New Standards in Portable MIDI Control
$299.00
Roland Corporation U.S.
Edirol PCR-500 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
In addition to providing more physical controls than previous models, the PCR-500 also offers new innovative and intuitive controls. This controller is solidly built, and optimized for both music production and live performance.
$349.00
Roland Corporation U.S.
Edirol PCR-800 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
Setting New Standards in Portable MIDI Control
$429.00
Vestax
Vestax VCI-100
The VCI-100 is a highly professional MIDI controller that has two jog wheels built with sensor and control technology straight from our turntables.
$499.99
Vestax
Vestax VCI-300
The VCI-300 is a dedicated USB MIDI controller for the included Serato DJ software. It also comes with a built in audio interface with standard 4in/4out and headphone connection, which means all you need for DJing is the VCI-300, a laptop and a set of headphones.
$899.99
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DESCRIPTION
PRICE
$499.95
insidetheindustry
The Pioneer Perspective
Part 1
Discussing the development of a DJ gear leader with Karl Detken and Davey Dave
I
By Ryan Burger
f you are a regular attendee at the Mobile Beat conferences, you no doubt have seen or even met Karl Detken and Davey Dave, the faces of Pioneer Pro DJ on the tradeshow floor. Karl, who has been with the company for 16 years, is Director of Product Planning and Artist Relations for Pioneer Pro DJ, while Dave came to Pioneer three years ago, after stints with a number of other DJ gear manufacturers, to fill the position of Senior Manager for Marketing. Mobile Beat publisher Ryan Burger sat down with these two product specialists—to talk about how Pioneer fits into the big picture of the mobile DJ world and how the company continues to lead in producing high-end equipment for discerning DJs, among other things… RB: How did you both get into this business™ From what I remember, you guys were both DJs before you got in, right™ KD: Yeah, that information is completely wrong, Ryan. I was actually not a DJ—when I came to Pioneer in 1992. DD: I was a scuba instructor as well.
Karl Detken
but I didn’t know how to get to them. So I basically hounded and harassed and stalked Karl at every show from about 1999 up until three years ago and begged him for a job. And I’m not even joking about that. I always knew Pioneer was the leader and I wanted to work with them. I worked for previous companies in the electronic industry, and finally three years got to hook up with Pioneer. RB: Back to you, Karl. I originally met you when you were “Karaoke Karl.” I had just assumed you had come from within and then moved into Pioneer, but it seems I got it backwards. KD: Yeah, a little bit backwards. First of all, I’ll tell you how the name came about. I started with Pioneer in ‘92, worked on the karaoke product. About ‘95 or ‘96, my then-Japanese boss said, please go do karaoke and learn about the industry better—and I thought that was a great idea.
KD: He was a Jello scuba instructor, which was a specialized field…Anyway, I was in music in a touring kind of original band, and discovered Pioneer’s open position for, at that time, their karaoke products division. They needed somebody that would be licensing music and programming their music and getting it pressed—at that time, on Laser Disc. Since I came from a musical background, I took the job, and have been here since…By the way, he was kidding about the scuba instructor thing. DD: So, I started out with Pioneer three years ago. Before that I’d been DJing since 1983. I discovered Pioneer when I first saw the CDJ-700 players and DJ-500 back in 1998, I think it was. Since then, I knew I wanted to work for this company because I knew they were the best, 36
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So I went and I found a local bar and I said, hey, I’ll do your karaoke for $50 a night. And at that time, I thought, wow, that’s great; pay for my beer and have a good time singing. And after a while I just got to loving the industry and the product. And it also helped me in the development of our songs and selection of our songs. The “Karaoke Karl” name came about somewhere about 1997 or ‘98. At that time, I had been involved in product placement in a lot of movies—My Best Friend’s Wedding, Frasier—TV and movies that would use our karaoke for a certain karaoke scene. There was a movie being done by Sony Pictures at the time with Gwyneth Paltrow and Brad Pitt called Duets, and they had called me in to do a script reading and make sure it was accurate and realistic, which I did. They found out I was doing karaoke at a local club every Thursday night. They came down, unbeknownst to me—the producers: One of them being Bruce Paltrow, who is Gwyneth’s father, and Kevin Jones. They came down and said, “How would you like to be in the movie™ We’d actually like to add realistic guys that are doing it.” I said, “Well, let me check my schedule; Gwyneth who™” Of course I said “Yes!” And that’s how the name came, because that was my name in the particular film—Karaoke Karl. RB: And Davey, I know you’re very active…in the club/DJ community… DD: Yeah, I’m still an active DJ. I play in a two-man group called UberZone, and we pretty much tour around the world. We hit various countries throughout the year: Australia, a couple times of year, various places in Europe, Japan, Korea, all over. So I’m still very active in the club scene, definitely. RB: Okay. We’ve heard how each of you guys got here. How about Pioneer™ Tell us more about how Pioneer made the move from karaoke players, those big Laser Discs and all the stuff like that, into what is now top professional gear™
Davey Dave
KD: Well, Pioneer has actually been around since 1938. They started off as a speaker company in Japan, and moved into hi-fi and car audio products in the ‘60s and ‘70s; probably became a world brand somewhere around that time as well. They introduced the first car cassette player, the first car CD player, and a bunch of other firsts; plasmas and all these different things. But like you said, we were in karaoke. We actually brought karaoke to the United States—
insidetheindustry which we apologize to everyone publicly right now for bringing that craziness—in ‘88. About 1993 or so, one of the things that we noticed is that many wedding DJs were using our karaoke for their weddings and bar things, and so we started looking at the DJ industry a little bit closer and seeing what products we could evolve into that might lend themselves to being strong in a DJ marketplace. We decided to develop a DJ CD player, kind of a tabletop. A lot of people think it was the first tabletop ever released, but it actually wasn’t, because 10 or 15 years prior, Technics had made an attempt to release a tabletop CD player, but it didn’t have very good pitch and instant start wasn’t available back then, so it didn’t do very well. We were actually the second guys to actually develop this tabletop CD player with a large jog dial on the top, kind of emulating a turntable. It was the first looping player with seamless loop. There were many looping players that had a little bit of a delay, but it was the first truly seamless looping player. First player with something called Master Tempo, which kept the key of the music while the speed went up and down. So it had a lot of firsts, and we entered that market in 1995—January of 1995 at the NAMM show, we introduced that product. We did fairly well with it because it was a new technology. And at that time it was funny because we were still kind of committed to
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karaoke, this particular DJ tabletop CD player also had a karaoke output. So it would play CD-G discs as well. And after that we discontinued the CD-G because we started focusing just primarily on DJs and club DJs and mobile DJs. And basically that was the first five years of releasing mixers and different CDJ units. About 2000, 2001, I think we revolutionized the world by introducing the CDJ-1000, which was the first realistic scratchemulating CD player. It has become the standard in the world. We sold our millionth CDJ last December, and it’s quite an accomplishment for Pioneer that we’re very proud of. And our mixers are also very much a standard in the nightclub and a lot of the mobile DJ industry. MB For the rest of this interview, don’t miss the January 2009 issue of Mobile Beat, or go to www.mobilebeat. com for a complete, unedited transcript or audio file.
mobilebeat.com
39
DMX LIGHTING CONTROL
FEATURED PRODUCTS
AMERICAN DJ
MYDMX
Easy-to-use DMX software for PC, including: 512 DMX channels; a library of 2000 profiles; Profile Editor; 3D visualizer; MIDI triggering; and a effects generator. It works with simple scenes/steps. www.americandj.com
CHAUVET
ShowXpress
Control everything from simple par cans to the most complex moving lights. Includes following modules: Control Board (overall control), Fixture (profile library), Generator (basic scene creator), Builder (complex scene creator), Live (real-time triggering) and Timeline (integrates audio, video, photo and lighting elements). www.chauvetlighting.com
DMXSOFT
Sunlite Suite - Basic
Includes 3D Easy View visualizer and Effects Creator. 512 DMX channel output (1 universe). Unlimited number of fixtures and scenes. Basic USB-DMX 512 interface included (up to 10 can be connected). MIDI compatible. Can sync with BPM.
DMX LIGHTING CONTROL
www.dmxsoft.com
DMX CONTROL - HARDWARE MFGR
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
CHS
American DJ
DMX Operator Pro
Hybrid controller: Moving Light and Par Can controller all in one. 136 DMX chs (128 chs for moving lights and 8 chs for Par Cans). 8 fixtures up to 16 chs each. 96 programmable Scenes. 8 programmable Shows.
99+
American DJ
DMX-16SW System
Includes DMX-16SW, 2 DP-415, 25ft. DMX cable, and 10ft DMX cable.
American DJ
FC-400
American DJ
American DJ
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TYPES
BACKUP
5-8
Intelligent / DimmerRelay
Memory Cared / Other
1-16
1-4
Solutions
A 4-way foot controller with 16 built-progs, DMX Output, Midi Output, and Audio Input.
1-16
1-4
Magic 260
19� rack mount DMX controller perfect for clubs and pro DJs. With 260 DMX chs, the Magic 260 can control up to 48 DMX-compatible moving lights. It can store up to 24 x 48 scenes and 264 shows. It comes equipped with a large library of pre-installed profiles for Elation, American DJ and other fixtures Non-DMX lights can be connected to a power pack, connected, and triggered via four aux switches.
99+
SCD-6
Simple 6-ch DMX Controller, master dimmer fader.
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WAR.
PRICE
1 yr
$439.95
Other
30 days
$419.95
Solutions
None
1 yr
$279.95
1-4
Intelligent
USB
1 yr
$799.95
5-8
DimmerRelay
None
FADERS
30 days
$79.95
MFGR
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
CHS
BACKUP
WAR.
PRICE
American DJ
Stage Desk 16
DMX-512 Dimmer Console, with 16 user progs and 8 built-in progs.
1-16
9-16
DimmerRelay
Other
1 yr
$319.95
Chauvet
D-Fi™ Wireless DMX
Transmit/receive up to 512-DMX chs wirelessly. Use with any universal DMX-512 controller. 2 user-selectable frequencies (915MHz/916MHz). Durable, extruded aluminum casing. Selectable transmitter and receiver. Self-contained unit with no setup required.
99+
37+
All
None
2 yr
$499.99
Chauvet
DMX-44 Controller
Universal DMX-512 controller. Controls up to 12 intelligent lights. 192 DMX chs of control. 30 banks of 8 scenes, 240 scenes in total. Beat-activation, tap sync, auto run. 6 sets of chases containing 240 scenes. MIDI compatible.
1-16
5-8
Intelligent
None
2 yr
$149.99
Chauvet
DMX-55 Controller
Universal DMX-512 controller. Controls up to 12 intelligent lights. 30 banks of 8 scenes, 240 scenes in total. 192 DMX chs of control. Beat-activation, tap sync, auto run. 6 sets of chases containing 240 scenes. MIDI compatible.
1-16
5-8
Intelligent
None
2 yr
$199.99
Chauvet
DMX-7 Controller
Universal DMX-512 controller. Controls up to 8, 12-ch fixtures. 96 DMX chs of control. Beat-activation and auto run. 8 sets of chases containing 60 scenes. Sequential linking chases. Fog & strobe control buttons.
1-16
5-8
Intelligent
None
2 yr
$149.99
Chauvet
DMX-70 Controller
Universal DMX-512 controller, Controls up to 12 intelligent lights of up to 32 chs each
99+
9-16
Intelligent
None
2 yr
$199.99
Chauvet
Obey™ 10
New rack mount controller for up to 8, 16 ch fixtures.
99+
5-8
Intelligent
None
2 yr
$89.99
Chauvet
Obey™ 40
New rack mount or tabletop controller for up to 12, 16 ch fixtures.
99+
5-8
Intelligent
None
2 yr
$119.99
Chauvet
PRO-D6
6-ch DMX-512 dimmer/switch
1-16
1-4
DimmerRelay
None
2 yr
$399.99
Chauvet
Stage Designer 24
DMX-512 console. 24 DMX chs, 48 progs, 4 pages of 48 scenes, 4,200 steps, 24 sliders. Fog & strobe control buttons. Mix and match chases. Override chases on the fly. Beat-activation, tap sync.
17-32
1-4
DimmerRelay
None
2 yr
$249.99
Chauvet
Stage Designer 48
DMX-512 dimming console. 48 DMX chs, 48 progs, 4,200 steps 48 sliders. Fog & strobe control buttons. Mix and match chases. Override chases on the fly. Beat-activation, tap sync, auto run, MIDI in/out .
17-32
1-4
DimmerRelay
None
2 yr
$429.99
Chauvet
Stage Designer 50
New Rack mount or tabletop dimming controller for up 48 chs of control.
33-49
25-36
Conventional-
None
2 yr
$199.99
Chauvet
Stage Dimmer 12
12-ch DMX-512 dimmer/switch. Each ch individually DMX addressable. 12 built-in beatactivated progs (stand-alone). 10-amp circuit breaker in each ch.
1-16
1-4
Intelligent
None
2 yr
$1,099.99
Chauvet
Stage Dimmer 6
6-ch DMX-512 dimmer/switch. Each ch individually DMX addressable. 12 built-in beatactivated progs (stand-alone). 10-amp circuit breaker in each ch. Set preheat voltage to individual ch or all.
1-16
1-4
DimmerRelay
None
2 yr
$449.99
Chauvet
Stage Wash Controller Pack
Color wash control of Stage Wash 950, 1550 & 1800. 1x 33ft (10m) 5-pin XLR cable)
1-16
1-4
DimmerRelay
None
2 yr
$39.99
Chauvet
Stage 4
Non-programmable 1650-watt sound-activated controller with 4 dimmer faders for manual control. Auto & sound chase, 16-pattern progs to sound or auto, flash, full on and blackout, speed control.
1-16
1-4
Conventional-
None
1 yr
$69.99
Elation Professional
DMX Operator Pro
See above under American DJ
99+
5-8
DimmerRelay
Other
1 yr
$439.95
FADERS
TYPES
Stage
Stage
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41
DMX LIGHTING CONTROL
DMX CONTROL - HARDWARE
DMX LIGHTING CONTROL
DMX CONTROL - HARDWARE MFGR
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
CHS
BACKUP
WAR.
PRICE
Elation Professional
DMX Programmer
Convenient features like a joystick and compact flash card slot. This affordable 64-ch DMX controller can operate up to 8 intelligent fixtures (maximum 8 DMX chs), assigning any to the joystick.
49-64
1-4
Intelligent
Other
1 yr
$239.95
Elation Professional
DP-640 B
6-ch hybrid pack with dual 20A Edison sockets per ch.
1-16
1-4
DimmerRelay
None
2 yr
$599.95
Elation Professional
EWDMXR
Wireless DMX Reciever
Elation Professional
EWDMXT
Wireless DMX Transmitter
1-16
1-4
Intelligent
None
2 yr
$599.95
1-16
1-4
Intelligent
None
30 days
$799.95
Elation Professional
Magic 260
See above under American DJ
99+
1-4
Intelligent
USB
1 yr
$799.95
Elation Professional
RMD 620
6 ch Digital Dimmer Pack
1-16
1-4
Solutions
Other
2 yr
$999.95
Elation Professional
Show Designer 1
Pan/Tilt Joystick. Tabletop Style with removable rubber rails for19” rackmounting. Control a wide variety of DMX intelligent lighting fixtures.
99+
5-8
Intelligent
Other
1 yr
$1,199.95
Elation Professional
Show Designer 3
Universal DMX controller. Compact Flash drive makes backing up progs, adding fixture profiles and software updates a snap.
99+
5-8
Intelligent
Memroy Card / Other
2 yr
$3,999.95
Event Lighting Solutions / ColorMaker
Color Cue Controller
LED Lighting Control with the all new Color Cue controller. 16 pre-set colors.
1-16
1-4
Intelligent
None
1 yr
$450.00
Irradiant ®
DJ 12-DMX
12-Channel DMX Controller, 16 chs each
99+
5-8
Intelligent
None
1 yr
$199.95
Irradiant ®
DMX Distro 4
4-Way DMX Distributor, 1 Input and 4 Outputs
1-16
1-4
Intelligent
None
1 yr
$119.95
Irradiant ®
FS Combo
SRC-249+249P
1-16
1-4
Intelligent
None
30 days
$179.95
MBT Lighting
CX1203 Dimming Controller
12 Dimming chs plus one master. 12 scenes - each scene can be any combination on the 12 chs. Chase 14, 5-8, 9-12 preset or chase through 8 scenes. Blackout button. 12 ch flash buttons. Includes 12V power supply. 3 pin XLR output.
1-16
9-16
Conventional-
None
1 yr
$449.00
MBT Lighting
CX1603 Dimming Controller
DMX512 controller with 16 chs: 8 with dimming faders and 8 on/off latch buttons. 16 “Bump” flash buttons. 30 pre-prog chase patts. Chases to speed control or to audio with tap/sync mode. Master level slider. Includes remoter footswitch with full-on, standby, pattern-up.
1-16
5-8
Conventional-
None
1 yr
$319.00
MBT Lighting
CX403 Dimming Controller
4 dimming ch plus one master. 4 scenes: each scene can be any combination on the 4 chs. XLR output. Chasing function: 3 factory preset patts or chase through 4 scenes. 4 ch flash buttons.
1-16
1-4
Conventional-
None
1 yr
$229.00
MBT Lighting
CX803A Dimming Controller
12 dimming ch plus one master. 8 scenes: each scene can be any combination on the eight chs. 3 pin XLR output. Chase 1-4 and 5-8 preset or chase through 8 scenes. Blackout button. Program button for chase direction change or for scene setting.
1-16
5-8
Conventional-
None
1 yr
$319.00
MBT Lighting
DMX2X4 Dimmer Pack
DMX512 dimming with 2 outlets per ch. Can act as a stand alone chaser with 16 pre-prog chase patts. 3-Pin XLR connections for linking to DMX controller or other packs. Load rating: 10 amp max per ch, 15 amp max total.
1-16
1-4
DimmerRelay
None
1 yr
$179.00
MBT Lighting
DX401 Dimmer Pack
4-ch pack features 2 inputs per ch. Load rating: 10 amp per ch, 30 amps max total entire unit. Dual power cords allow for max load of 15 amps chs 1+2, 15 amps chs 3+4. 10 amp circuit breaker for each ch. 256 step dimming resolution.
1-16
1-4
DimmerRelay
None
1 yr
$379.00
MBT Lighting
DX404 Dimmer Pack
4-ch pack features one output (plug-in) per ch: 4 total. Load rating: 6 amp per ch, 15 amp max entire unit. DMX start address setting with LED display. 256 step dimming resolution. 4-ch test buttons. 3-pin XLR input/output.
1-16
1-4
DimmerRelay
None
1 yr
$199.00
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FADERS
TYPES
Stage
Stage
Stage
Stage
djbuyingguide
DMX Control
The Hard and the Soft of It Whatever the size of your light show, there’s a controller for you By Bret Agard and Jake Feldman
W
hile computers and audio/video playback software get most of the attention these days (due to the constant flow of new progs, no doubt), controlling your lighting via the digital DMX protocol is also becoming easier to accomplish these days, thanks to developments in both hardware and software controllers. Here are some quick tips for choosing a system that’s right for you. DMX Hardware When shopping for a DMX controller in the hardware form, it is important, just as it is in other areas of equipment shopping, to think about the intended function. If you have more than four fixtures to be hooked up, or if you want to save more than a few chases or scenes, then you will need to look for a controller that provides you with multiple “pages” or “banks” of pre-made and/or user-defined progs that are easily accessible and storable. Along with that, always consider the pos-
sibility of adding fixtures to your light show when shopping for controllers. Forward thinking is essential when dealing with lighting consoles, as it allows you to upgrade your lights without constantly having to upgrade your controller. And maybe more importantly, having a unit that can grow with your system will save you time when updating and saving lighting sequences. A relatively new (and immediately popular) feature available on many DMX hardware controllers, is the addition of a USB port for flash drive use. This allows the user to create scenes or chases on a computer or another compatible controller and then transfer them for performance using a different controller. This kind of feature is recommended for DJs who perform at a diverse selection of events but use the same controller. Not only does it make scenes easier to call up, but it also creates a fresh contrast of differentiating light shows for different events. Price is a criterion that should fall well below function and performance on the list of priorities in choosing a hardware DMX controller. A controller is an investment that will last for years with proper forward thinking, while a shoddy light show with an inexpensive controller can be embarrassing, and even detrimental to your entertainment reputation. Think about size and weight, in relation to your overall setup. Also think about user-friendliness. Make sure you feel certain that you can master programming with the unit under consideration. You probably won’t understand all its ins and outs at first glance, but you should be able to develop confidence in programming relatively quickly. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about how to use the controller! Although there are many pros and cons that can be identified when weighing the differences between hardware and software controllers, to most performers, the situation will boil down to preference—meaning that some functions and results may be easier for some to achieve on
computer software while others feel more comfortable (have more fun™) playing with faders and buttons. Whatever the case may be—be sure to realize that quality DMX light show will add showmanship to your entertainment presentation and will also differentiate you from your competition. DMX Software When looking at controller software to run your DMX fixtures, remember that it does not take a lot of power to run the software itself. It is, however, better to run any software on a separate machine than the one you are DJing with. When looking at DMX software, consider the ease of use with the technical level you have. Some DMX software is very simple to use, while other progs are much more advanced and have a big learning curve. With any of the software out there, most have pre-loaded DMX settings for many lighting fixtures out there. This saves you a lot of time setting up and programming fixtures. Most companies do not charge you to download and play with the lighting software that they offer. What they charge you for is a small hardware interface that you plug into your computer to send the software’s output to your lights. Take advantage of the free software trials to see what fits you the best in your needs. An important feature that should be in software that you consider is a good 3D visualization component. This allows you to set up a virtual room, place your lights where they would go, and then as you program your show, it will show you how the lighting will move around the room. There are many different extra features that different progs offer, from timeline creation of light shows, to lighting programmed for a particular song. Figure out what you want to do with the software and that will help you find the best program for you. MB mobilebeat.com
43
DMX LIGHTING CONTROL
DMX CONTROL - HARDWARE MFGR
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
CHS 1-16
MBT Lighting
SCX101 Foot Controller
Convenient foot operation. Up to 16 chs, 16 scenes, 16 chase patts. Full dimming capability.
TriceraSoft
DMX Control Module
Each DMX Module can handle 64 chs in a combination of fixtures. Each Module addressable to accomadate 57800 universes. Use any Swift product or SCRAM Control 1.0 with the DMX live bank, Extended Scenes, or Active Scenes.
TriceraSoft
Relay Control Module
Controls a standard Relay Pack such as the RP-8 through the DB9 interface. Use Swift or SCRAM Control products to control each or all chs. Module also includes Special Modes, Single and Multi Chase.
TriceraSoft
Triac Control Module
Controls LC-100 Co-Pilot Head Units. Remove your Co-Pilot control head and interface this module to make it come alive. Use Swift or SCRAM Control products to control each.
FADERS
TYPES
BACKUP
WAR.
PRICE
None
1 yr
$338.00
1-4
Conventional-
1-4
Intelligent
None
30 days
$90.00
1-16
1-4
DimmerRelay
None
30 days
$124.95
1-16
1-4
DimmerRelay
None
30 days
$124.95
49-64
Stage
DMX CONTROL - SOFTWARE MFGR
PRODUCT
American DJ
myDMX
Easy-to-use DMX software for PC, with 512 DMX chs and a library of 2000 profiles that can be easily updated.
$399.95
Chauvet
Chauvet ShowXpress
ShowXpress provides the ultimate solution for lighting control. It offers the possibility of direct user control, from simple par cans to the most complex moving lights. All you need is a PC and the ShowXpress software. Use your PC to build and control your own lighting show!
N/S
DMXSoft
Daslight Virtual Controller 2 512
Package content: 1 Software installation CD-ROM in multi-language + USB/DMX intelligent interface (512 OUT and 512 IN or 2x512 OUT, XLR3, HE10) + USB cable + User manual
$549.00
DMXSoft
LumiDesk Live
Basic USB-DMX 512 chs interface, software, USB cable. Works with LumiDesk in Live version (no Stand Alone memory, no DMX input, no MIDI input, no ports, 3D visualization in LIMITED mode)
$399.00
DMXSoft
Sunlite Suite - Basic
Basic USB-DMX 512 chs interface, CD with manual and software, USB cable. Works with Sunlite Suite in Economy Class (no stand alone memory, no DMX Input, no Ethernet Output, no Ports, no Clock)
$449.00
DMXSoft
SUNLITE SUITE - Economy Class
DMX IN/OUT, manual, software, USB cable. Works with Easy Stand Alone and Sunlite Suite in Economy Class with 2 ethernet universes.
$699.00
Martin Peofessional
Light Jockey 2™
A flexible, easy to use Windows-based controller that is available with a single Universal USB-DMX Interface. Recognized as the most intuitive controller on the market today. At the heart of LightJockey 2.7.8 is the Solid Beam Virtual Visualizer, a high-quality visualization simulator capable of creating realistic 3D beams. It interfaces with WinampTM to play digital audio files. It also supports SMPTE and MIDI timecode with a suitable interface. LightJockey Manager is a free add-on for scheduling and remote control, which also connects to the LED-Trix plug-in to facilitate the programming of color mixing fixtures, such as LED-based lighting fixtures.
N/S
PCDJ - Digital One Audio
PCDJ DMX
PCDJ DMX is the complete light control solution for the professional DJ or nightclub in the most demanding conditions. The DMX light controller is a powerful, yet easy-to-use software and hardware package that delivers you the features to control, program, sequence, and perform with any DMX-compatible lighting fixture. Set and perform amazing sequences with moving lights, par cans, lasers, hazers, media servers, and more. With PCDJ, you can DJ, VJ, and Light Jockey at the same time!
$399.00
TriceraSoft
SCRAM Control
SCRAM Control is a stanalone product for controlling SCRAM Control Modules. Control DMX, Triac, and Relay modules chained together and command them with the same level of expertise as with any of the Swift line of products.
$59.95
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DESCRIPTION
PRICE
mobilebeat.com
45
LED LIGHTING
FEATURED PRODUCTS
AMERICAN DJ
Accu Spot 250 Hybrid
Hybrid Moving Head fusing Discharge and LED lamp sources for an exciting and energetic effect. Features: RDMX Remote DMX addressing (Change DMX values remotely from any DMX console); gobo scroll mode; 4-button menu system making it easy to navigate; auto X-Y repositioning; 9 colors + white; 7 rotating gobos + spot; 11 DMX Channels; and much more. Street Price : $1399.95 www.americandj.com
CHAUVET
DerbyX™
The DerbyX™ offers huge area coverage in a small package. In a lightweight, modern housing, the unit looks as good as it performs! With DMX control the DerbyX™ offers tremendous flexibility. Also available are brackets to stack multiple units together to create an array of beams that will fill any room. Street Price : $119.99 www.chauvetlighting.com
ELATION PROFESSIONAL Event Panel System
Ultra-bright color panel with 288 10mm LEDs (48 Red, 120 Green, & 120 Blue LEDs). Includes rechargeable battery pack so the unit can operator remotely without being connected to electricity (use battery pack or AC cable for power). Offers seamless RGB color mixing-infinite color possibilities. Street Price : $1099.95
LED LIGHTING
www.elationlighting.com
LED LIGHTING MFGR.
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
TYPE
DMX
PWR SUP
WAR.
American DJ
64P LED Pro
The perfect solution to brilliantly light up any stage. Equipped with 181, 10mm LEDs for an ultra bright punch. Features DMX-512 and “LED Sync” which automatically syncs operation modes with other American DJ products that have LED Sync.
Par Can
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$399.95
American DJ
Accu LED MH
The Accu LED MH is a high powered moving head LED with sharp Red, Green, & Blue beams, with 9 DMX chs. Output is comparable to a 250W Halogen lamp.
Moving Yoke
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$999.95
American DJ
Accu Spot 250 Hybrid
A Hybrid Moving Head fusing Discharge and LED lamp sources resulting in an exciting and energetic effect, the Accu Spot 250 Hybrid also has RDMX, 7 rotating gobos + spot, and 9 colors + white.
Pin Spot
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$1,399.95
American DJ
Accu UFO
A unique moving head effect that features 32, red, green, blue and white bright razor sharp LED beams that twist, turn, strobe and pulse. DMX-ready or sound-active, with 7 built-in progs. Includes ADJ’s “Smart Sense”—auto recognizes DMX or Master/slave mode.
Effect
Yes
Internal
3 yr
$1,199.95
American DJ
Color Shot
DMX-512 LED color strobe. 3 DMX ch, RGB color mixing. Sound active, built-in progs, LED Advantages: long life bulbs, low heat, low power consumption, no UV emissions.
Par Can
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$139.95
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PRICE
LED LIGHTING
LED LIGHTING MFGR.
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
American DJ
Dual Gem LED
Sound-active, LED Dual Lens Moonflower with sharp Red, Green & Blue high output colored beams
American DJ
Electra LED
American DJ
TYPE
DMX
PWR SUP
WAR.
Moving Mirror
No
Internal
1 yr
$179.95
Using LED Technology and a special glass optical system this American DJ LED Moonflower effect produces sharp red, green and blue beams of light ™ a spectacular light show that could not be produced with traditional halogen Moonflowers.
Moving Mirror
No
Internal
3 yr
$159.95
Electra LED DMX
Using LED Technology and a special glass optical system this American DJ LED Moonflower effect produces sharp red, green and blue beams of light - a spectacular light show that could not be produced with traditional halogen Moonflowers
Effect
Yes
Internal
3 yr
$199.95
American DJ
Globe Color
The Globe Color is a DMX Intelligent LED display fixture. This fixture is light weight and compact which makes it a great piece for most interior settings: retail stores, displays, architectural, interior decoration, and clubs.
Panel
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$199.95
American DJ
Jewel LED
Sound Active LED Moonflower with 46 sharp Red, Green & Blue high output colored beams (16 Red, 15 Green & 15 Blue)
Moving Mirror
No
Internal
3 yr
$129.95
American DJ
LED Cube
Linkable with other LED Cube Panel units™ DMX via LED Cube Controller ™ Optional clamps available ™ 60 x 60c RGB LED Panel ™ RGB Color Mixing with Swirl type effects using the LED Cube/C Controller (sold separately) .
Panel
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$499.95
American DJ
LED Matrix
The LED Matrix panel system is designed for the mobile DJ, and it is also great for Visual Lighting Shows without use of a fog machine.
Panel
Yes
External
1 yr
$999.95
American DJ
LED Messenger
Be the hit of the next party! Create stunning text graphics on the wall, ceiling or dance floor with the American DJ, LED Messenger. With the use of its own wireless remote or a computer keyboard (PS2 type - not included) users can type messages using the 192 built-in high output red, green and blue LEDs. The unit can also function as a high out LED moonflower effect in DMX or Sound Active modes.
Effect
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$439.95
American DJ
LED Vision
LED Moonflower with 26 large, sharp Red, Green & Blue high output colored beams
Moving Mirror
Yes
Internal
3 yr
$349.95
American DJ
Mega Bar LED
Ultra bright, indoor LED Color Bar with 252 10mm LEDs (48 Red, 108 Green, & 96 Blue LEDs), Great as an architectural wall wash or for performance stages where traditional stage lighting emit a lot of heat onto performers
Panel
Yes
Internal
3 yr
$599.99
American DJ
Mega Bar UV50
1.5 foot/.5 meter Black light bar utilizing long life ultraviolet (UV) LED technology
Panel
Yes
Internal
3 yr
$239.95
American DJ
Mega Panel LED
Ultra bright, indoor LED Color Panel with 288 10mm LEDs (48 Red, 120 Green, & 120 Blue LEDs) and 5 operation modes
Panel
Yes
Internal
3 yr
$499.95
American DJ
Mega Pixel LED
Ultra bright, 1-Meter indoor chasing LED effect color bar with bright red, green and blue LED banks of color chase, stroe and mix colors.
Panel
Yes
Internal
3 yr
$-
American DJ
MR RGB 12V
Durable and energy efficient, with 16 different colors.
Par Can
No
External
3 yr
$64.95
American DJ
Mystic LED
Using LED Technology and a special glass optical system this American DJ LED Moonflower effect produces sharp red, green and blue beams of light - a spectacular light show that could not be produced with traditional halogen Moonflowers.
Effect
Yes
Internal
3 yr
$239.95
American DJ
P36 Blinder RGB
Par 36 LED RGB wash effect utilizing 8 LED Cans™ Multi-Colors ™ RGB color mixing™ Color Strobe effect™ Electronic Dimming 0-100%™ Built-in Microphone (sound active mode)™ Direct DMX512 connection™ 6 DMX Channels™ Manual focus of wash coverage area™ Includes hanging bracket.
Panel
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$799.95
American DJ
P36 LED
LED. Pinspot with RGB Color mixing™ DMX-512 protocol™ Very smooth projection on walls with rich palates of color created by mixing the Red, Green and Blue LEDs.
Pin Spot
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$159.95
American DJ
P64 Blinder RGB
Par 64 LED RGB wash effect utilizing 4 LED Cans ™ Multi-Colors - RGB color mixing ™ Color Strobe effect ™ Electronic Dimming 0-100% ™ 3 operational modes: DMX-512, master/slave or sound activation ™ Direct DMX-512 connection ™ 7 DMX Channels ™ Manual focus of wash coverage area.
Panel
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$999.95
American DJ
P64 LED
LED. Par Can with RGB Color mixing ™ 3 operational modes: DMX mode (6 DMX chs); Sound Activation; Auto Mode; RGB Mode (see user manual for more info on operational modes).
Par Can
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$279.95
m o b i l e:b e a t
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PRICE
2008
47
LED LIGHTING
LED LIGHTING MFGR.
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
TYPE
DMX
PWR SUP
WAR.
PRICE
American DJ
P64 LED UV
LED. Par Can with ultraviolet spot. DMX-512, 3-ch,151 UV LEDs
Par Can
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$299.95
American DJ
P64 LED White
LED. Par Can™ DMX-512 protocol™ 3 Channel DMX (Strobe, Dimmer & Pulse)™ Emits extremely low heat or UV ™ great for performance stages where traditional par cans emit a lot of heat onto performers™ Includes hanging bracket™ Dimensions: 11.5™ (L).
Par Can
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$279.95
American DJ
Pearl LED Color
Using LED Technology and a special glass optical system this American DJ LED Moonflower effect produces bright multi-colored beams of light. With the use of one 3-Watt LED the Pearl LED Color produces beams similar to that of a 400W halogen lamp.
Moving Mirror
Yes
Internal
3 yr
$219.95
American DJ
Punch LED Pro
Brilliantly light up any stage. This unit is equipped with 252, 10mm LEDs for an ultra bright “punch” and features DMX-512 and “LED Sync” which automatically syncs operation
Panel
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$399.99
American DJ
Quad Color
DMX Intelligent LED display fixture. Its compact and lightweight design is ideal for various settings: retail stores, displays, creating moods, architectural, interior/exterior decor, and clubs.
Panel
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$199.95
American DJ
Rack Color LED
Easy-to-use 19-inch LED Bar used to light up your DJ rack (24 LEDs) with color change, brightness & rainbow effect with pattern, speed and fade control
Tube
No
Internal
3 yr
$199.95
American DJ
Rainbow Tube II
Now with RGB color mixing and 0-100% dimming! (Operatiing from a DMX Controller). Easy-to-use high output, long life LED color tube with 144 LEDs (48 R, 48 G, 48 B). With DMX, RGB color mixing mode can mix 100s of colorful hues.
Tube
Yes
External
1 yr
$299.95
American DJ
Reflex LED
LED dual mirrored Moonflower with sharp Red, Green & Blue high output colored beams
Moving Mirror
No
Internal
3 yr
$219.95
American DJ
Reflex LED DMX
Using LED Technology and a special glass optical system this American DJ LED Moonflower effect produces sharp red, green and blue beams of light - a spectacular light show that could not be produced with traditional halogen Moonflowers.
Effect
Yes
Internal
3 yr
$279.95
American DJ
Revo II
LED DMX-512 Moonflower with sharp Red, Green, Blue & White Beams
Moving Mirror
Yes
External
3 yr
$259.95
American DJ
Revo III
LED DMX-512 Moonflower with sharp Red, Green, Blue & White Beams in 7 LED Clusters for a total of 392 LEDs
Moving Mirror
Yes
Internal
3 yr
$319.95
American DJ
Revo Scan LED
LED DMX-512 flat mirrored scanner with sharp Red, Green, Blue & White Beams
Moving Mirror
Yes
Internal
3 yr
$339.95
American DJ
Rover LED
LED Scanning Barrel Mirrored Moonflower with sharp Red, Green & Blue high output colored beams
Moving Mirror
No
Internal
3 yr
$159.95
American DJ
Saturn TRI LED System
Includes 4x Saturn Tri LED Fixtures, 1x American DJ UC-3 Controller, 3x 3-pin XLR linking cables
Effect
Yes
Internal
3 yr
$899.95
American DJ
Sparkle LED 3W
An LED moonflower utilizing one 3W LED, to create beams. Beams can rotate slowly or are static.
Effect
Yes
Internal
3 yr
$119.95
American DJ
Spectrum LED
LED Moonflower with 64 sharp Red, Green & Blue high output colored beams
Moving Mirror
Yes
Internal
3 yr
$199.99
American DJ
Starball LED
The Starball LED produces 34 crisp, bright white beams, similar to a mirrorball effect.
Effect
No
External
3 yr
$139.95
American DJ
Starball LED DMX
The Starball LED DMX produces 34 crisp, bright white beams, similar to a mirrorball effect, and is DMX compatable.
Effect
Yes
External
1 yr
$209.95
American DJ
Sunray LED
The Sunray LED produces 34 crisp, bright colored beams for an effect that is similar to a mirrorball.
Par Can
No
External
3 yr
$139.95
American DJ
Sunray LED DMX
The Sunray LED produces 34 crisp, bright colored beams for an effect that is similar to a mirrorball, and features 2 DMX chs: Dimmer/ Strobe and Rotation.
Effect
Yes
Internal
3 yr
$209.95
American DJ
X-Color LED
A high perfomance mobile DMX spot with a single 20W LED. Output is comparable to 250W Halogen Lamp
Pin Spot
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$399.95
American DJ
X-Move LED
20W white LED source crisp beam that will project gobos and solid colors. Light weight, small, for mobile DJ use.
Moving Yoke
Yes
Internal
30 days
$899.95
American DJ
X-Scan LED
A high performance mobile DMX Scanner with a single 20W LED, the X-Scan LED has 8 colors + white, and 8 rotating gobos + spot. It has 3 operational modes: DMX controller, Master/Slave and Sound Active, and an output comparable to a 250W Halogen.
Moving Mirror
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$559.95
modes with other American DJ products that have LED Sync.
48
mobile:beat
gear guide
2008
djbuyingguide
Looking at New Lighting Important considerations for building
S
your lighting arsenal
By Robert Kuron
o you’ve decided to add a little more excitement to your entertainment package. A new or upgraded lighting system is your mission. Now what™ Where do you start™ Unfortunately, many will go straight to a budget or try to figure “the cheapest way out”. I say, HOLD ON! Let’s back up and look at your needs and goals first. Planning a bit before you buy will make you and your clients happier in the end. When a new customer comes into the store, I ask a lot of questions before I show one light in action. I find that many customers know they want some cool lights to enhance their show, or to set them apart from the competition and increase bookings, but haven’t really given much thought as to what they need. Here are a few questions to ask yourself that will help you make a purchasing decision a little easier:
1
What are the majority of gigs you do™ Weddings™ Schools™ Corporate events™ Bars and clubs™ Or a mixture of all™ Weddings and corporate events may require a bit less bling than a school or club. If you do a mixture of gigs, you need a mixture of lights too.
2
Are you planning on using fog or haze at your events™
3
If you can’t or won’t use fog or haze, for what ever reason, you have just eliminated over half of your lighting choices. You just can’t see many of the new LEDs or lasers without fog or haze in the air.
4 5
How much time do you want to dedicate to set up and tear down™
This is a real important question, the more lighting you own, the more of your time has to be dedicated before and after each event for set up and tear down.
6
How will you display your new lights/ light show™ Stands™ Truss™ Or are you setting them on a table or the floor™ Transportation. Your new 15 foot, 12 inch box truss probably won’t fit in your Honda Civic. Better think about limitations before you buy.
Most lights are relatively compact and light weight for transportation, but you still have to make room for them in your vehicle. You will want to make sure they are secure when driving and that nothing is going to crush them. I strongly suggest padded bags or cases to protect your new investment too. Do you want to have more control of your lights or just set them and forget them™ Most lights don’t need a controller to work, but it will give you more options if you do. My opinion here is there is no right answer. I know that DMX programming is a real hot topic but I say you don’t HAVE to use a controller if the lighting effects offer a sound to light option, the choice is yours. This is also an option that can be added in the future with a little planning. If you plan on controlling, do you plan on using some of the newest software™ If so, a computer will have to be factored into your budget. Power consumption of your light show is becoming less of a problem with the dawn of LED lights. But as of today, affordable, effective scanners and moving heads are still a work in progress. There is still a need for these effects and the need to be aware of the power draw your light show will have. Make sure your venue can support your light show and your sound systems’ power needs. Based on the answers to the above questions, a more educated budget can be decided. Finally, keep a few things in mind; first, you don’t have to buy everything at once. Every light fixture you purchase will add to your show. If you can’t afford everything you want at once, don’t worry, light shows are often works in progress, for some they constantly evolve. Second, no matter what you read, there is no such thing as “the best” looking light. Just like art, it is a matter of personal preference, so have fun with your choices and find the lights that suit your taste, needs, and budget. MB
mobilebeat.com
49
LED LIGHTING
LED LIGHTING MFGR.
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
TYPE
DMX
PWR SUP
WAR.
Chauvet
COLORado™ 1
9-ch DMX, high-power LED fitted wash light
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$1,799.99
Chauvet
COLORado™ 3
12-ch DMX-512 LED bank system (with ID addressing) Separate DMX chs for red, green, blue, cyan, magenta, yellow and white Strobing Blackout/static/dimmer/strobe Separate RGB control over each individual pod RGB color mixing with our without DMX controller.
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$999.99
Chauvet
COLORado™ 6
3, 9 or 12-ch DMX-512 LED bank system (with ID addressing)
Panel
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$2,499.99
Chauvet
COLORado™ Batten 80i
3, 4, 9, 12, 16, 60 or 80-ch DMX-512 LED bank system (with ID addressing)
Panel
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$3,999.99
Chauvet
COLORado™ Panel
3, 4 or 9-ch DMX-512 LED bank system (with ID addressing)
Panel
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$2,199.99
Chauvet
COLORbank™ LED
4 ch DMX-512 LED bank system; Blackout and static / flashing colors; RGB color mixing; Color fade; Automatic built-in progs with sound activation; 304 LEDs divided into 4 banks, 76 LEDs per bank.
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$249.99
Chauvet
COLORdash™ Batten
An up to 12 ch LED linear wash perfect for wall washing, strip lighting or anywhere a little color is needed. Features 24 high power Red, Green and Blue LEDs.
Panel
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$399.99
Chauvet
COLORdash™ PAR
An up to 9 ch DMX controlled LED PAR can featuring 18, high power LEDs with removable barndoors and gel frame for added flexibility.
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$299.99
Chauvet
COLORpalette™
6 to 27-ch DMX-512 LED bank system; Blackout / static / dimmer / strobe
Panel
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$229.99
Chauvet
COLORpalette™ II
6, 9, 15 or 27-ch DMX-512 LED panel
Panel
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$699.99
Chauvet
COLORstrip™
4-ch DMX LED fitted linear wash light
Panel
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$249.99
Chauvet
COLORtube™ 2.0
144 ultra bright LEDs: 48 red, 48 green, 48 blue diodes; Built-in stand alone progs; Color range: red, green, yellow, blue, purple, cyan, white; 22 patterns, chase, color flows with variations
Tube
No
Internal
1 yr
$179.99
Chauvet
COLORtube™ EQ
4 to 32-band LED audio spectrum visualizer, Individual tubes are addressable to any of the 32 frequencies 16 patterns, chases, color flows with variations plus blackout; Durable and weather resistant IP33 rated.
Tube
No
Internal
1 yr
$399.99
Chauvet
DerbyX™
LED powered effect with huge coverage area and individually controlled pods. Optional hardware available to stack multiple units. Compact and lightweight unique effect.
Effect
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$119.99
Chauvet
DJ Bank™
Compact, automatic LED powered chase light. Runs sound activated or in automatic modes with adjustable speed
Panel
No
Internal
1 yr
$69.99
Chauvet
Élan™
4-ch DMX LED fitted effect light
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$179.99
Chauvet
J-Five™
LED fitted, sound activated effect light with ultra wide coverage.
Par Can
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$129.99
Chauvet
LED Shadow™
3-ch DMX-512 LED UV blacklight Blackout/static/dimmer/strobe; Built-in automatic progs via DMX Adjustable flash rate, dimmer and static in stand-alone via dipswitches Linkable with LED Techno Strobe™ & LED Techno Strobe™ RGB in stand-alone.
Panel
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$179.99
Chauvet
LED Techno Strobe™ RGB
6-ch DMX-512 LED strobe system Blackout/static/dimmer/strobe; Built-in automatic progs via DMX RGB color mixing with or without controller Adjustable flash rate, dimmer and static in stand-alone via dipswitches; Linkable with LED Techno Strobe™ & LED Shadow™.
Panel
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$179.99
Chauvet
LEDrain™ 36
2-ch DMX-512 LED narrow beam Blackout/static/dimmer/strobe Static/strobing via master/slaveADDITIONAL FEATURES Built-in automated progs via master/slave Low power consumption Linkable power (includes 5ft linking cable).
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$79.99
Chauvet
LEDrain™ 38
7-ch DMX-512 LED narrow beam
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$99.99
Chauvet
LEDrain™ 56
7-ch DMX-512 LED narrow beam; Blackout/static/dimmer/strobe Sound active or automatic mode; Static colors and RGB color mixing in master/slave mode via dip switches; speed control.
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$139.99
Chauvet
LEDrain™ 64
7-ch DMX-512 LED narrow beam
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$179.99
Chauvet
LEDsplash™ 196
LEDsplash 196LED-PAR196 ™ 7-ch DMX-512 LED washlight can™ 7 individually controlled LED circles produce a wide spectrum of colors™ 196 ultra bright LEDs: 85 red, 51 green, 60 blue diodes distributed into 7 concentric circles
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$179.99
Chauvet
LEDsplash™ Jr.
LEDsplash JrLed Par 83 ™ 4-ch DMX-512 LED washlight can ™ 86 ultra bright LEDs:- 44 red, 21 green, 21 blue diodes ™ Blackout/dimmer/strobe ™ Individual control of red, green, and blue diodes ™ RGB color mixing
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$79.99
50
mobile:beat
gear guide
2008
PRICE
LED LIGHTING
LED LIGHTING MFGR.
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
TYPE
DMX
PWR SUP
WAR.
PRICE
Chauvet
LEDsplash™ 2
6-ch DMX-512 high-power LED wash light
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$399.99
Chauvet
LEDsplash™ 200B
6-ch DMX-512 LED washlight Blackout/strobing/dimming Selector switch for sound active or automatic progs Automatic built-in progs with sound activation and speed control Static colors and RGB color mixing in master/slave mode via dip switches.
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$179.99
Chauvet
Legend™ 6500
High powered LED moving yoke wash. Features 90 high-power LEDs in Red, Green, Blue and White for ultimate control of color and long bright throws.
Moving Yoke
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$4,999.99
Chauvet
LX5™
LED fitted, sound activated moonflower.
Par Can
No
Internal
1 yr
$59.99
Chauvet
MiN Spot™
The world\’s smallest moving head spot fixture! 5 or 13 ch DMX control, 9 gobos + open, RGB color mixing.
Moving Yoke
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$449.99
Chauvet
MiN Wash™
CHAUVET\’S smallest moving yoke wash yet! 5 or 13-ch DMX, LED fitted wash featuring RGB color mixing.
Moving Yoke
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$449.99
Chauvet
Q-Wash™ LED
10-ch DMX-512 LED moving yoke color wash Pan: 540° / tilt: 270° RGB color mixing Variable electronic strobe Variable electronic dimmer (0 - 100%) Remote fixture reset and speed control chADDITIONAL FEATURES Extremely bright 1W LEDs Automatic pan & tilt correction.
Moving Yoke
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$599.99
Chauvet
Q-Wash™ LED-36
10-ch DMX-512 LED moving yoke color wash
Moving Yoke
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$1,099.99
Chauvet
Vue I™
6-ch DMX-512 LED moon flower Blackout/static/dimmer/strobe Individual control of red, green and blue colors Built-in automated progs via master/ slave or DMX; Built-in sound activated progs via master/slave or DMX.
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$89.99
Chauvet
Vue II™
6-ch DMX-512 LED moon flower Blackout/static/dimmer/strobe Static color in master/slave mode via dipswitches Individual control over red, blue and green colors; Built-in automated progs via master/slave.
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$179.99
Chauvet
Vue III™
9-ch DMX-512 LED wide coverage moon flower Blackout/static/ dimmer/strobe Individual control of each cluster of LEDs (7 Total) Built-in automated progs via master/slave or DMX Built-in sound activated progs via master/slave.
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$229.99
Chauvet
Vue™ VI
6-ch DMX-512 rotating LED moon flower
Effect
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$249.99
Chauvet
Vue™1.1
Update on the very popular and ground-breaking Vue I, the Vue 1.1 features an all new, more funtional case design with the same great output and price.
Effect
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$89.99
Chauvet
Vue™2.1
The Vue 2.1 takes the Vue series to a new level with a new patten of effects and the added dimension of rotation. All this packed into a new sleeker case.
Effect
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$199.99
Chauvet
Vue™4.1
The newest member to the Vue family the Vue 4.1 adds a new effect pattern with the added dimension of rotation to the effect.
Effect
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$279.99
Elation Professional
Design LED 12 Brick
High Output LED Color Changer
Panel
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$499.95
Elation Professional
Design LED 36
High Output LED Color Changer ™ 39-deg beam angle with diffusion filter Master/Slave auto program and music trigger; 12 Position binary dip switch; 4 Channel DMX operation; Built in Macro Channel, RGB.
Par Can
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$999.99
Elation Professional
Design LED 36 MH
LED Moving Head with 36 1-watt LEDs
Moving Yoke
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$1,599.95
Elation Professional
Design LED 36 UV
High output ultraviolet LED. wash
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$1,199.95
Elation Professional
Design LED 36 WA
High Output White LED Wash
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$1,199.95
Elation Professional
ELED Tri 64B
54W Tri Color RGB Black Par 64 Can, with DMX
Par Can
Yes
Internal
30 days
$999.95
Elation Professional
Event Panel System
Ultra Bright Color Panel with 288 10mm LED\’s
Wash
Yes
External
30 days
$1,099.95
Elation Professional
Octo Strip
The Alkalite LED lighting system offers endless color possibilities. Does not produce IR or UV light, so heat is minimized.
Tube
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$2,299.95
Elation Professional
Opti 16-4 CW
A compact, high output, LED Par Can with 4 1-Watt White LED\’s
Par Can
No
Internal
30 days
$179.95
Elation Professional
Opti 16-4 WW
A compact, high output, LED Par Can with 4 1-Watt White LED\’s
Par Can
No
Internal
30 days
$179.95
Elation Professional
OPTI RGB
High output LED. Color Changer. Powerful 1 Watt LEDs, Total of 24 LEDs (8 red, 8 green, 8 blue); Full RGB color mixing. 7 DMX chs (addressable via 10 dip switches). Full dimming. Built-in sound active progs.
Par Can
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$699.99
Elation Professional
Opti RGB Wh
White Fixture With High Output LED. Color Changer And DMX
Par Can
Yes
Internal
2 yr
$699.95
Elation Professional
Opti Tri Par
Tri-Color LED Par Can 350 Lux @ 3M.
Par Can
Yes
Internal
30 days
$999.95
m o b i l e:b e a t
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2008
51
LED LIGHTING
LED LIGHTING MFGR.
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
TYPE
DMX
PWR SUP
WAR.
PRICE
Elation Professional
PZ-720A
The Alkalite LED lighting system
Panel
Yes
External
1 yr
$2,999.95
Elation Professional
V-Bar 270
Alkalite LED color wash. 270, 5mm LEDs with RGB color mixing. DMX-512, Master/Slave or Auto Chase mode with 19 built-in progs. 15-degree beam angle; variable strobe; full dimming.
Wash
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$459.95
Event Lighting
Cyclone 360-5
The Cyclone360 has 8 individually controlled LED clusters arranged in a circular pattern
Effect
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$825.00
DL75
DL75 Enhanced ColorRoll technology powered by Nickel Metal Hydride batteries.
Wash
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$310.00
Octagon
Octagon Wireless LED fixture with 8 individual controlled LED clusters. Octagon
Wash
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$825.00
PS250-60
PS250-60 fixture voted most popular fixture for three years by the F.E.L.A. Used for
Wash
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$399.00
PS500-60
The PS500-60 fixture “King of the Hill” for wall washing or high intensity lighting.
Wash
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$749.00
Irradiant®
GoboPR
LEDGOBOPR - The world’s first WLED SSLE based architainment ARCHI SPOT Image projector
Effect
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$59.99
Irradiant®
LED 46
SRL-6042 - 120V, PAR46 LED
Par Can
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$114.95
Irradiant®
LED 64
SRL-6057 - 120V, PAR64 LED
Par Can
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$144.95
Irradiant®
LED Bank 8
SRL-6018LEDBANK8 - 120V, LED COLOR BANK 12x8
Wash
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$519.95
Irradiant®
LED BEACON
The classic police beacon effect just got brighter, lighter, and got a kick in the technology pants!
Effect
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$49.99
Irradiant®
LED Move RGB
SRM6072 - The ultra compact design of fixture is perfect for low ceiling applications
Moving Yoke
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$649.99
Irradiant®
LED Par Set
SRL-4134S - This set of par cans include 8 par cans and one controller.
Package
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$729.99
Irradiant®
LED Pro 64
SRL-6057L - 120V, PAR64 LED PRO
Par Can
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$429.95
Irradiant®
Over 1
LED Moon Flower 1
Effect
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$79.95
Irradiant®
Over 2
SSDL-6062 - LED Moon Flower 2
Effect
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$179.95
Irradiant®
Over 3
SSDL-6061 - LED Moon Flower 3
Effect
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$269.95
Irradiant®
Par 56
SRL-6056 - 120V, PAR56 LED PRO
Par Can
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$319.95
Irradiant®
Pro Wash
SRL-6035 - High Power LED Stage Wash
Wash
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$639.95
Irradiant®
Revo 10
11 ch DMX fixture boasts a basic arsenal of effects. Color wheel and gobo wheel housed in a compact body.
Moving Yoke
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$769.99
Irradiant®
Revo 100
World’s first high power LED based full featured moving head intelligent lighting fixture. First in a series of SSLE (Solid State Light Engine) LED spot projection products.
Moving Yoke
Yes
Internal
1 yr
$2,399.95
Irradiant®
Solar Ray RGB
SRL-6052RGB - Architectural, stage, commercial, club, this professional wash covers all the applications where smooth, rich color wash or white with color temperature correction is required. The LED Linear Wash and LED Linear Wash AW from Neo-Neon™ incorporate all of the functionality required to be applied professionally.
Wash
Yes
Internal
1 yr
Irradiant®
Sun Wash AW
SRL-6349AW - Architectural, stage, commercial, club, this professional wash covers all the applications where smooth, rich color wash or white with color temperature correction is required. The LED Pro Wash and LED Pro Wash AW from Neo-Neon incorporate all of the functionality required to be applied professionally.
Wash
Yes
Internal
1 yr
Irradiant®
Sun Wash RGB
5 program cues available, each program can contain a maximum of 10 scenes with 36 timed events that can be set to any desired clock time. The LED Pro Wash also has a built in thermal sensor to enable operations below 60°C. Whether operated with DMX-512, Stand-alone or, via the built in sophisticated “yet simple to operate”1 time/ scene selection system the LED Pro Wash delivers professional results.
Wash
Yes
Internal
1 yr
Solutions / ColorMaker Event Lighting Solutions / ColorMaker Event Lighting Solutions / ColorMaker Event Lighting Solutions / ColorMaker Event Lighting Solutions / ColorMaker
52
mobile:beat
gear guide
2008
$1,599.95
$1,399.99
$1,199.95
mobilebeat.com
53
POWERED SPEAKERS B-52 PROFESSIONAL
MATRIX-600 - 600W Active System
Compact and powerful, the MATRIX-600 delivers clean and accurate sound. At the heart of the MATRIX-600 is a highquality 600W RMS stereo amplifier designed to perfectly match the included satellite speakers. Add that a built-in 7channel mixer, studio-quality DSP effects, 48v phantom power and ample inputs/outputs. Satellite speakers boast a highfidelity 10” 3-way design offering greater clarity than typical 2-way speakers. Covers for the speakers, carrying bag for the mixer/amplifier and cables are included. Street Price : $999.99
POWERED SPEAKERS
www.b-52pro.com
FEATURED PRODUCTS YAMAHA
MSR250 Powered Speaker The MSR250 Powered Speaker delivers clear sound quality in a convenient, lightweight and simple-to-use package—just plug in a microphone or other input and it’s ready to go. It delivers 200 watts of clean, dynamic sound via a high-performance 10” woofer and a 1” titanium diaphragm compression driver designed for uncolored response from 55 Hz to 20 kHz. Includes a 3-input mixer, a 2-band EQ and line-out on the back panel. Street Price : $599.00 www.yamaha.com/proaudio
POWERED SPEAKERS MFGR.
PRODUCT
TYPE
DESCRIPTION
American Audio
PSW 15P
2-way
15” sub with built-in 300W amp. Dual inputs (XLR/1/4”), XLR line outputs. Adjustable Elec Crossover. Pole mount socket. Heavy duty carrying handle. Heavy-duty rubber feet.
American Audio
PX1 10P
2-way
American Audio
PX1 15P
American Audio
CABINET
LF DRV (IN)
70+
Painted Coating
10” 2-way spkr with built-in 200W bi-amp system. 10” woofer with 40oz magnet. 1” compression driver. Electronic crossover. XLR & RCA line inputs 2 mic inputs (XLR & 1/4” stereo) with separate mic vol. Blue “on” LED on front.
31-40
2-way
15” 2-way spkr with built-in 400W bi-amp system. 15” flat wound cast frame woofer with 80oz magnet. 1” compression driver. Electronic crossover. XLR & RCA line inputs 2 mic inputs (XLR & 1/4” stereo) with separate mic vol. Blue “on” LED on front.
PX1 8P
2-way
B-52 Pro
ACT-15X
B-52 Pro
WAR.
PRICE
PWR
INPUTS
15
201300W
Multi
1 yr
$699.99
Molded
10
101200W
Multi
1 yr
$349.95
61-70
Molded
15
301400W
Multi
1 yr
$559.95
8” 2-way spkr with built-in 100W bi-amp system. Electronic crossover. XLR & RCA line inputs; 2 mic inputs (XLR & 1/4” stereo) with separate mic vol. Blue “on” LED on front.
21-30
Molded
6.5
1-100W
Multi
1 yr
$279.95
2-way
Ideal for use by itself or with an ACT-Series subwoofer for a powerful full-range system. Black paint or black carpet finish.
70+
Painted Coating
15
501600W
XLR
4+ yr
N/S
MATRIX-1000 V2
3-way
Complete sound reinforcement solution 2x10” 2-way powered satellites and a dedicated powered 15” sub. Built-in 3-ch 700W amp, elec crossover with EQ
70+
Painted Coating
15
501600W
XLR
4+ yr
$799.99
B-52 Pro
MATRIX-200
2-way
Compact, powerful, portable. True 200W stereo amp
70+
Painted Coating
6.5
101200W
XLR
4+ yr
$499.99
B-52 Pro
MATRIX-2000
3-way
Complete sound reinforcement solution consisting of 2x 12” 2-way spkrs, 18” sub, 1200W 3-ch amp.
70+
Painted Coating
18
601+W
XLR
4+ yr
$1,499.99
54
mobile:beat
gear guide
2008
WT (LBS)
A step-by-step approach to obtaining audio power
S
By Jake Feldman
ince the late 1990s the mobile DJ industry has been injected with the popularization of powered speakers as both an alternative to lugging heavy poweramps around as a formidable solution to average weddings and everyday events. From large to small, powered speakers have proven themselves as an advantage to those who possess them and the envy to those who don’t. Powered speakers also carry with them certain features that promote longevity and reliability that can only come with having the amplifier in the cabinet (such as thermal shutdown and contour). Don’t get me wrong: With any technology there are inevitably positives and negatives associated. My purpose here is to refresh those who know and educate those who don’t about how to shop for powered speakers. What to Think about Before The first step in shopping for a pair of powered speakers (or anything) should be deciding the functionality of the speakers and what type of events they will be utilized in. With this information a lot of factors such as size, wattage, and appearance can be contemplated and narrowed down. Remember there are any brands and types of powered speakers out there, so do not limit yourself based on price alone. Consider the durability of the speaker based on other’s experiences, the company’s track record, and materials used in the making of the units. It is also important in this stage of the process to look at the transportation that the speakers will be hauled in. Size of the speakers is a very important consideration based on what brand or model to purchase. Also think of the functionality of your particular vehicle and its interior. Obviously, if a carpeted SUV is used to transport molded plastic speakers, then little to no wear occur. If, however, you are using a straight truck with wooden floors you would need some way to protect those cabinets such as cases to avoid unsightly gouges and scrapes (which goes without saying that proper case is a key to powered speaker reliability). Key Elements
Now that you have included the primary function and transportation aspects of your decision making process, you must now decide the best course of action based on features. Wattage is important when comparing models and brands. If you have decided that your average wedding is around 250 people, then a pair of good quality 1000 watt speakers (combined) should be fine. If you routinely do larger weddings and events, powered speakers may still be for you, but you may need to consider doubling average sized cabinets or purchasing larger powered cabinets—of which there are a wide variety. Another important aspect is the functionality. Some speakers may simply have one input and one pass through output while others may have miniature mixing boards built into the back. If your function included ceremony sound or additional inputs, I would recommend looking at either a set of speakers with a built in cabinets or making sure your mixer is able to accommodate the necessary inputs (most mixers only have 1-2 xlr or 1/4” [mic] input). Also pay attention to other features that may be included such as noise gates, band EQs, contours, and low pas filters. Noise gates have the potential to eliminate slight feedback or that dreaded hum when at idle. Low pass filters provide versatility when adding subwoofers so as to emphasize proper bass and not overdrive your cabinets. Remember that most powered speakers are not known for their tremendous bass output. They are simply in most cases 3-way (meaning High, Mid, and Bass) cabinets designed to give the listener a balanced duplication of the recording or sound. Weight a Minute With the growing average age of disc jockeys, weight is also very important issue. There are some powered speakers out there that provide a tremendous output at low weight. Not all light weight speakers sound good, however, and you may find yourself compromising with a heavier cabinet in favor of a better sound. I would advocate listening to prospective speakers with an objective free mind before considering weight and issue. Of course if there are health issues that necessitate a lighter rig—by all means find a great sounding light weight system that will adequately perform for you. Beauty and Durability Just as with un-powered cabinets, there is a differentiation in the casing materials that powered speakers come in. Mainly, there are four types of finishes commonly used. First and traditionally (for powered speakers), molded plastic is great
Compatibility If you already own powered speakers and are purchasing another pair or are weighing the odds of switching to powered, remember to get a product that will be compatible with your other systems easily. Whether this means patching powered speakers into an un-powered rig (can be done but not recommended) or by simply adding cabinets to a system—make sure that all is compatible and that the entire system will “play nice” with each other. Price Finally, and the moment you all have been waiting for (and the most important to some)—price. Now I know there are some who will not heed my advice and buy a cheap pair of powered speakers based on price alone. I wish you the best of luck and hope it all works out for you. For the rest of us, I will let you in on a little secret—Price alone should not determine your business purchases especially for products with as many pricing points as powered speakers have. First when considering price, one has to think about the purchase of a set of powered speakers as a 5-7 year investment in tools that will allow you to carry out your work. 5-7 years, by the way, is the lifespan of a pair of powered speakers as a primary rig. The speakers may continue on after that as secondary systems, which would add value to your purchase. Pay attention to warranties—all powered speakers worth considering should at least have 1 year limited warranties. Next, think of the price in terms of value. If you would like to be known for great sound with perfect clarity and precision levels, purchase accordingly. Be aware that speakers can be a person’s greatest asset or biggest weakness at an event. No amount of personality will do when the clients or guests cannot hear announcements and music or the sound is harsh and unbearable. Please do not be fooled—I am not advocating buying the most expensive system out there because of perceived value, just as I am not advocating buying cheap just to make more profits on the back end. What I am advocating, though, is not being afraid of price when it comes to piece of mind in a service delivered to a client and to well-performing equipment. mobilebeat.com
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djbuyingguide
How to Pick Powered Speakers
for lighter use applications. You may find as time wears on, though, that there really is no way to hide blemishes or marks on these cabinets short of buying a new set or making sure that they remain in their cases when stored or in transport. If you’re like me then heavier use applications more adequately describes your usage of powered speakers and for that you have found that the second and third categories of Textured/Painted coatings and Spray-On Bed liner coatings work the best for your applications. While the textured/painted coating may not last as long as the bed liner, it can be spruced up through repainting and re-coating through the products’ life. And finally a mainstay in the un-powered speaker category of carpet covering has slightly creped into powered speakers. Just remember that out of all of the casing materials, carpeting is likely to wear out the fastest. It all boils down to a long-lasting professional look that will not only represent your company but will also reflect on the judgment of your clients for hiring you.
POWERED SPEAKERS
POWERED SPEAKERS MFGR.
PRODUCT
TYPE
DESCRIPTION
B-52 Pro
MATRIX-600
2-way
3-way rear-ported spkrs substantially outperform traditional 2-way designs
Behringer USA Inc.
Eurolive B412DSP
2-way
Bose
L1 B1 PS1 System
FBT USA Inc. FBT USA Inc.
WT (LBS)
CABINET
LF DRV (IN)
41-50
Painted Coating
Introducing the Digitally Controlled 600W spkr from BEHRINGER
70+
3-way
The Single Bass Package consists of: 1x L1 Cylindrical Radiator® spkr and PS1 power stand;1x R1 remote control;1x B1 bass module; padded gig bags.
Amico 900
2-way
Jolly 12Ba
FBT USA Inc. FBT USA Inc. FBT USA Inc.
WAR.
PRICE
PWR
INPUTS
10
301400W
1/4”
1 yr
$999.99
Molded
15
1-100W
Multi
1 yr
$399.95
1-20
Carpet
6.5
301400W
Multi
2 yr
$1,998.00
900w RMS Portable Sound System
70+
Molded
15+6.5mid
601+W
Multi
2 yr
$2,149.95
2-way
Polypropylene, Light weight, powered, 2 way system 300w RMS w/ a 12” woofer and a 1” horn
41-50
Molded
12
201300W
Multi
2 yr
$759.95
Jolly 15 Ba
2-way
350w RMS Powered 2-way system 15
41-50
Molded
15
1-100W
Multi
2 yr
$869.95
Kempton GT 12a
2-way
250w RMS Powered 12
31-40
Molded
12
201300W
XLR
2 yr
$439.00
Maxx 2a
2-way
Extremely light and sturdy enclosure made of polypropylene with gas injection moulding.
21-30
Molded
12
201300W
Multi
3 yr
$849.95
FBT USA Inc.
Maxx 5a
2-way
2 Way 500w Bi-Amplified spkr System
41-50
Molded
15
301400W
Multi
3 yr
FBT USA Inc.
Maxx 6a
2-way
2 Way 900w RMS Powered spkr
61-70
Molded
15
601+W
Multi
3 yr
FBT USA Inc.
Verve 12a
2-way
2 Way 400w RMS Bass Reflex spkr
41-50
Painted Coating
12
301400W
Multi
3 yr
Multi
$1,349.95 $1,769.95
FBT USA Inc.
Verve 15a
2-way
2 Way Active 450w Bass Reflex spkr
51-60
Painted Coating
15
401500W
Gemini Sound Products
GX-1 Powered Monitors
2-way
Powered compact monitor spkrs; Hard ABS molded plastic design; 25W RMS Woofer & tweeter; Separate bass, treble, volume controls 3-D surround sound with on/off button; Protective metal grill.
21-30
Molded
6.5
Gemini Sound Products
GX-250Powered Professional 10
2-way
Compression driver with 1.36” Titanium diaphragm; Freq resp 50-20 KHz,100 W RMS, 250 W peak power.
31-40
Molded
Gemini Sound Products
GX-350Powered Professional 12
2-way
Comp driver with 1.5” Titanium diaphragm; Freq resp 40-22 KH, 200 W RMS, 600 W peak power; internal amp.
41-50
Gemini Sound Products
GX-450Powered Professional 15
2-way
Comp driver with 1.75” Titanium diaphragm; Freq resp 30-22 KHz, 300 Ws RMS, 800 W peak power; internal amp.
JBL Professional
Eon 10G2
2-way
JBL Professional
Eon 15G2
2-way
Mackie
SRM350
2-way
Mackie
SRM450
2-way
MARATHON
ENT-10P
MARATHON
$1,149.95 3 yr $1,299.95
1-100W
Speakon
1 yr
$159.95
6.5
1-100W
Speakon
30 days
$199.95
Molded
6.5
101200W
Speakon
1 yr
$249.95
61-70
Carpet
6.5
201300W
Speakon
1 yr
$319.95
Features a 10” woofer, increased power and a 3-input mini-mixer. Ideal for AV and smaller applications. With EONSUB G2 powered sub, provides a full range sound system
31-40
Carpet
10
101200W
Multi
1 yr
N/S
With more than 300,000 systems in use, the JBL EON system is firmly entrenched as the industry leader in powered portable spkr systems.
41-50
Carpet
15
201300W
Multi
1 yr
N/S
41-50
Molded
10
201300W
XLR
4+ yr
$549.99
The active SRM450 has tight, steel-fisted bass to below 55Hz and detailed, articulate treble.
51-60
Molded
12
301400W
XLR
4+ yr
$699.99
2-way
Active 10” 2-Way ABS Loudspkr
70+
Carpet
5
601+W
1/4”
30 days
$209.99
ENT-12P
2-way
Active 12” 2-Way ABS Loudspkr
70+
Carpet
5
601+W
1/4”
30 days
$259.99
MARATHON
ENT-15P
2-way
Active 15” 2-Way ABS Loudspkr
70+
Carpet
5
601+W
1/4”
30 days
$319.99
MARATHON
ENT-8P
2-way
Active 8” 2-Way ABS Loudspkr
70+
Carpet
5
601+W
1/4”
30 days
$169.99
MARATHON
JR-115
2-way
Compact Single 15” 2 Way Portable Loudspkr System
61-70
Carpet
5
601+W
1/4”
30 days
$229.99
MARATHON
JR-125
2-way
Compact Dual 15” 2 Way Portable Loudspkr System
70+
Carpet
5
601+W
1/4”
30 days
$299.99
MARATHON
MA-10P
2-way
250 W, active 10” 2-way, Die Cast Frame Woofer, PA-10100DC Compression Driver
21-30
Molded
5
201300W
1/4”
1 yr
$179.99
MARATHON
MA-12P
2-way
600 W, active 12” 2-way, Die Cast Frame Woofer, PA-12100DC Compression Driver
31-40
Molded
5
501600W
1/4”
1 yr
$239.99
MARATHON
MA-15P
2-way
800 W active 15” 2-way, Die Cast Frame Woofer PA-15100DC Compression Driver
51-60
Molded
5
601+W
1/4”
1 yr
$299.99
56
mobile:beat
gear guide
2008
mobilebeat.com
57
POWERED SPEAKERS
POWERED SPEAKERS MFGR.
PRODUCT
TYPE
DESCRIPTION
MARATHON
MA-8P
2-way
150 Ws, Active 8” 2-Way ABS Loudspkr with Die Cast Frame Woofer PA-8100DC Compression Driver
Omnisistem Lights and Effects
Beta 3 Sound System
2-way
Peavey Electronics
PR 115P
QSC Audio
WT (LBS)
CABINET
LF DRV (IN)
1-20
Molded
The Beta 3 Sound System is powerful, compact, and affordable. A must for Mobile DJs!
70+
2-way
The PR® 15P packs power and full-range sound quality into one compact loudspkr.Contains 270W of bi-amped power.
HPR122i
2-way
The power, technology and legendary reliability of QSC amplification combined with the simplicity and convenience of a multipurpose loudspkr system.
QSC Audio
HPR152F
2-way
QSC Audio
HPR153F
3-way
WAR.
PRICE
PWR
INPUTS
5
101200W
1/4”
1 yr
$129.99
Molded
12 +6mid
601+W
XLR
1 yr
$1,000.00
41-50
Molded
15
201300W
Multi
4+ yr
$499.99
51-60
Carpet
6.5
301400W
XLR
4+ yr
N/S
70+
Molded
15
401500W
XLR
4+ yr
$1,499.00
15” 3-way powered spkr system, 600 W (400 LF, 100 MF, 100 HF). The 15” low frequency driver provides extension down to 37 Hz.
70+
Molded
15
501600W
XLR
4+ yr
+6.5mid
$1,699.00
TAPCO
TAPCO TH-15A
2-way
200W active PA spkr that uses fully-integrated elecs to achieve performance and quality unmatched by any loudspkr near its price.
31-40
Painted Coating
15
201300W
XLR
1 yr
$469.99
VocoPro
PV-1800
2-way
400W active spkr w/built-in mixer. Digital Echo. Power Rating: 400W Peak / 200W RMS
41-50
Carpet
15
301400W
1/4”
1 yr
$499.00
VocoPro
PV-802 (pair)
2-way
Stereo 400W Powered Vocal Spkrs; designed for studio or club use; 400W (200W+200W)
1-20
Molded
6.5
301400W
1/4”
1 yr
$499.00
Yamaha
MSR100
2-way
Compact size, big sound, versatile features—in an inexpensive, lightweight package. A simple, effective mixer built into the rear of each unit provides 3 inputs with a master EQ for precise sound control.
1-20
Molded
8
1-100W
Multi
3 yr
$479.00
Yamaha
MSR400
2-way
Internal amp is ideally mated to the spkrs, eliminating the need for separate external amps. Features built-in EQ. Provides punchy bass and clear midrange. Can be used alone or in combination with Yamaha’s MSR800W sub.
41-50
Molded
12
301400W
Multi
3 yr
$699.00
58
mobile:beat
gear guide
2008
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insidetheindustry
QSC: A Chronicle of Quality Driving force Pat Quilter and marketing maestro Evan MacKenzie speak about the QSC tradition and new directions in powered loudspeakers. com) if people do want to check it out, by the way.
Pat Quilter
F
Evan McKenzie
By Ryan Burger
rom one of those mythicalsounding-but-true beginnings in a small Southern California shop, to its current position as one of the leading amplifier manufacturers in the world, QSC has always maintained focus on high quality and truly serving the needs of working entertainers. The cofounder and current PR man discuss the company’s origins and continuing development. Ryan Burger: We are here with the big guys at QSC, Mr. Pat Quilter—the “Q” in QSC—and Mr. Evan MacKenzie, director of marketing and communications. Please tell us a little bit about what you guys do, and the quick story about QSC. Pat Quilter: Well, this is our 40th anniversary, as your readers no doubt know, if Evan is doing his job—ha-ha. We started in a small, 800square-foot garage-like unit 40 years ago, originally to build rock & roll amplifiers. And that migrated within a few years to professional grade power amps…and the rest is history, as they like to say. But we have been building better and better power amps for 30 years and the last 10 years we’ve been expanding into digital and speaker technology. RB: And there’s a lot more detail, for people that are interested, on the website (www.qscaudio. 60
mobile:beat
gear guide 2008
Evan MacKenzie: One of the things that Pat didn’t mention is that there’s this history of amplifier technology, then speaker technology and the DSP that’s come along in the last 10 years. But there’s also the core spirit of the QSC brand— why the company has succeeded so well in my estimation—and Pat can back me up or tell me I’m crazy if he wants. But very much like your audience, Ryan, this is an entrepreneurial organization, meaning that people here are free to envision, formulate and present products that the market is asking for…QSC has always responded to the market and delivered what the market is asking for, as opposed to what we think, from behind these walls, the market is going to want. And that’s really at the core of the QSC value proposition. PQ: I’ll reinforce that by saying I’ve always considered myself a technical artist. And we have a lot of artists in the company, both from music, and from the various specialties that go into designing our products. And as artists, we take the materials that are available to us—our palette, if you will—but we want to put together something no one’s ever seen before; get a result that’s nicer, more satisfying, more artistic than anyone’s ever been able to do before. We think the results speak for themselves. There is a lot of passion in this company for excellence. But at the same time, we’ve got to keep it down to earth, we’ve got to make products that people can understand and use so they can focus on their artistry while using QSC products. RB: Got you completely. Evan, you came to QSC with some other history in other areas. Tell me why you wanted to go to QSC and a little bit about where you came from before you hit QSC. EM: Before I got here I spent a decade in the ad agency world. Interestingly, the very first agency I was at, almost 10 years ago, my job was new business development director. And the agency at the time was doing a rollout campaign to get more business in, believe it or not, the music industry, primarily musical instruments and pro audio. We did score several big clients, mostly musical instruments and a small amplifier company. It was very rewarding and excit-
mobilebeat.com
61
insidetheindustry
ing to be working with a lot of the NAMM-type businesses, as well as a pro audio company. And then along the way, as I progressed through the ad agency ranks, I always had a pro audio client for most of that time. There were a couple years where I didn’t and most of what I did was consumer marketing for the likes of Proctor & Gamble, Motorola and DirectTV. Then one day, about a year and a half ago, I was rushing across a parking lot…to get to downtown L.A. to do a pitch for, of all things, a meat packing company. The cell phone rings in the middle of the parking lot and it’s my former client from another pro audio company, Gerry Tschetter, who is now the vice president of marketing here at QSC, and basically he said, “We’re looking for a director of marketing/account executive/client services director all rolled into one. Do you know anybody that might be interested or is that you™” And right there in the middle of that hot parking lot in the San Fernando Valley I stopped and went, “Yes. I know exactly who you’re looking for. That’s me.” And then about six weeks later–I was offered a job here and the main question that kept coming up in all the interviews was, “Why do you want to be inside a pro audio manufacturing company as opposed to being outside in that glamorous world of ad agencies™” And the answer is: I love music. Since I was a child I’ve loved music and that’s why I’m here. I love music, I love the music experience and I love the people that put it on, be they the engineers, the performers, the DJs, the recording people, the people that create these products. I love the whole thing. RB: Wow. Pat, you were obviously were involved in bringing this young marketing “punk” into the QSC culture. Why was he that much of a match™ Why does he fit in so well™ PQ: You know, this may seem surprising, but our products are relatively hard to present and 62
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gear guide 2008
communicate effectively to the customer because one of our deep corporate values is balance and harmony. We’re deep believers in the idea that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. There are a lot of companies out there who base their appeal on being the best at one particular thing; and if you want that one attribute, then you know who to go to. We want our products to be great at everything, but it makes the sales pitch complicated because you can’t just say, “Buy the QSC because it has the most power or the greatest bandwidth,” or any number of other individual things, because we strike a balance between all those factors in order to provide what we think is the best overall performance and value. And it’s a hard story to tell quickly. Evan brings real professionalism to this—he’s definitely ramped up our ability to communicate subtle and intricate qualities in ways that cut through the clutter of our modern environment and register with our potential users. RB: It’s nice because he does understand the musician and DJ. He’s not just putting together an advertisement. PQ: Exactly. RB: I know Evan makes regular appearances at our trade shows in Las Vegas. People can meet the people behind QSC and it’s absolutely fantastic. How have traditional amplifiers and the regular speaker arena…grown or continued to evolve™ PQ: Well, QSC’s roots began in support of incremental system building. We made mostly power amplifiers for many years. And power amps are something people buy to upgrade their system. Users get a new amplifier and hook it up with their speaker and their mixer and their processing and they figure out what next to upgrade, one piece at a time. So that’s still a very big part of our business.
We don’t currently make non-powered clubtype speakers, but we do have a wide range of speakers for buildings, installations, touring shows, cinemas—products that are somewhat related to what a DJ or a working club musician needs. We do have ideas for addressing those remaining gaps, but the powered speaker is an opportunity for us to blend our amplifier technology and high-performance speaker technology in a way that allows us to get a better result from the combination than you would get from just assembling the pieces yourself. We put a lot of special processing in the HPRs, under the umbrella of a term we’re going to be talking about a lot in coming years, Intrinsic Correction™. This term describes the work we do in our large test facility, to correct the intrinsic characteristics of the speaker, so what comes out of the speaker is as clean, and flat, and full-range as we can possibly make it—so performers can focus on their show and not worry about just getting the speaker to sound halfway decent. The HPR Series embodies a first generation of this technology and that’s why you like them, because they are measurably flatter and cleaner than anything we know in their price range. PQ: And in order to package a modern speaker into a compact cabinet and keep the weight reasonable, various trade-offs are necessary. And when you do that with a passive speaker, there are certain things you end up requiring the user to correct for. In an active speaker, we can measure the trade-offs in a laboratory environment where we can really see what needs correcting, get it right, and give the customer good sound right out of the box. MB
For the rest of this interview, don’t miss the January 2009 issue of Mobile Beat, or go to www.mobilebeat. com for a complete, unedited transcript or audio file.
mobilebeat.com
63
MIXERS
djbuyingguide
MIXERS
FEATURED PRODUCTS YAMAHA
AMERICAN AUDIO Q-SD Mixer
MG166C-USB Stereo Mixer
Bring your whole night’s music on one postage stamp-sized card with this SD Card-compatible mixer (up to 4GB). 4channel, 19” rackmount. Folder and track selector knob. Big LCD display with back-light. Mic input and master output trim control. Tempo Lock. Fader “Q” Start compatible (with select American Audio CD players). Balanced XLR outputs...and much more. Street Price: $599.95
Get connected with this mixer’s USB port for advanced digital live recording; includes Cubase AI4 recording software. 16 channel PA and production mixer with 8 mono mic/line inputs, 2 stereo mic/line inputs, 4 stereo line jack inputs, 3 aux sends, 8 inserts, 3-band EQ with parametric mids, onboard effects, high-end microphone pre-amp, 48V phantom power, and more. Street Price: $599.00
www.americanaudio.us
www.yamaha.com/proaudio
Choosing a Mixer By Ben Stowe, CTS
W
hen choosing a mixer for your system there are two critical factors you should consider. The first is the feature set. If it doesn’t do what it needs to, it isn’t a good fit. Likewise, if it is overloaded with unnecessary features, you have likely paid more and are carrying more than was prudent. The second factor is the quality of the board. The mixer may have the single greatest impact on the quality of your sound, and it has many moving parts that can become troublesome quickly if they are of poor quality.
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There are a variety of distinctly different applications mixers are used in; live sound, broadcast, DJ, karaoke, recording and more. This article will briefly discuss live sound, karaoke and DJ applications. Even within those categories there are several distinct uses, a scratch DJ may have different needs than a wedding DJ. They may want kill switches, onboard effects and perhaps an optical crossfader to allow for rapid, fluid movement over many cycles. DJ Mixer Essentials Individual users will likely place different emphasis on different features, but the following are some important features that I feel are fairly universal for DJs and others: size and weight, input channels, balanced outputs, gain trim, and PFL level indicators. Size and weight really go without saying. We have to carry our gear from gig to gig. Input channels will dictate how much we can connect to the board. Some will need more channels than others, and of different types. Inputs can be mic, line, phono, S/PDIF (digital) and more. Balanced outputs are particularly important given the greater use of powered speakers. For sending the signal at line level over long distances, like those required to reach powered speakers, they have advantages.
Understand your application Lower current in the signal means lower loss, but longer distances carrying a low-level signal create more opportunities for interference and noise. A balanced connection helps preserve the quality of the signal. Proper gain structure is fundamental for good sound. An input gain trim (not to be confused with the channel slider), paired with a PFL (Pre-Fader Listening) level indicator is extremely valuable in creating even input gains and avoiding distorted audio. Sound Reinforcement Options In live sound, there is a far greater range of options, but most units draw from the same roots. Top considerations are frame size, low cut, EQ strip, Aux outputs, phantom power, fader size, and mute groups. The frame size simply tells us how big the board is. Check how many mono channels (typically a mic or instrument input) and how many stereo inputs (typically for stereo devices, such as CD players) the board offers. Often a stereo channel is counted as two. I find this practice to be somewhat deceptive, but nearly every manufacturer does it. A 12-channel board may have 8 mono inputs and 2 stereo inputs. A low cut is a button assigned to a frequency
MFGR
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
EQ
INPUTS
OUTPUTS
EFFECTS
#RU
WGHT
WAR.
PRICE
(LBS)
LINE
PH
MIC
LABEL
Alesis
iMultiMix 16 USB
USB connection. Sturdy, compact, all-inone tabletop mixer. 100 studio-grade 28-bit digital effects, a built-in limiter, iPod dock with control wheel transport controls for direct-to-iPod recording.
Overall
11+
1
5+
Master
XLR
Yes
Nonrack
21-30
1 yr
$599.99
Alesis
MultiMix 16 USB 2.0
USB 2.0 for ultra–fast, low–latency, 24–bit/44.1–96kHz (high-end A/D, D/A conv) multi–ch computer audio recording.
Overall
11+
1
5+
Master
XLR
Yes
Nonrack
11-20
1 yr
$499.99
Allen & Heath
MixWizard WZ3 20S
Remains a favorite mixer stereo sub-mixing, anywhere.
Overall
8
1
5+
Master / Zone
XLR
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$1,699.00
Allen & Heath
MixWizard WZ3:14:4:2
Has carved out a unique place in the pro audio pantheon of multipurpose consoles.
Overall
11+
1
5+
Master / Zone
XLR ,
No
Nonrack
21-30
1 yr
$1,349.00
American Audio
M1224FX
4 Mono & 4 Stereo Ch Mixer. Trim with Peak LED, HPF, 3-band EQ, 1 AUX with Pre/Post Sw, 1 EFX, PAN, Mute & PFL Sw for Mono Input
Chan
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$369.95
American Audio
M1624FX
8 Mono & 4 Stereo Ch Mixer
Chan
Yes
1
1-10
1 yr
$479.95
American Audio
M822FX
American Audio
MX-1400
American Audio
MX-1400 DSP
American Audio
8
4
5+
More
TYPE
DIGITAL
1/4” RCA , 1/4”
11+
4
5+
More
RCA , 1/4”
2 Mono & 3 Stereo Ch Mixer
Chan
5
3
4
More
RCA
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$239.95
Chan
4
3
3
Master
XLR,
No
8
11-20
1 yr
$459.95
RCA
4-ch, Pro 14-inch Mixer W/FX
Overall
4
3
3
Master
XLR
Yes
Nonrack
11-20
1 yr
$599.95
Q-2411
Chan
5
3
2
Master
XLR
No
5
1-10
1 yr
$179.95
American Audio
Q-2411 Pro
Chan
5
3
2
Master
XLR
No
4
1-10
1 yr
$199.95
American Audio
Q-2422 Pro
Chan
4
2
2
More
XLR,
No
1
1-10
1 yr
$299.95
American Audio
Q-3433 MKII
MP3 player input
Chan
4
3
3
Master
XLR
No
6
1-10
1 yr
$399.95
American Audio
Q-D1 MKII
Fader Q Start (auto crossfade Amer Audio Q Series Mixer. Gain, treble & bass control per ch. Master, Mic & Cue level vol control. Cue monitor between chs
Chan
2
2
1
Master
XLR,
Yes
7
1-10
1 yr
$109.95
American Audio
Q-D1 Pro
High-end Mixer with 2 band EQ w/input gain control per ch, USB connection
Chan
1
1
1
Master
XLR
No
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$149.95
American Audio
Q-D5 MKII
DJ Skilz helped Amer Audio design this 2-ch, feature-packed mixer. Rugged, long life Optical Fader—factory tested for over 1 million fades.
Chan
2
2
1
Master
Both
Yes
6
1-10
1 yr
$239.95
American Audio
Q-D6
Front mini plug for MP3 players. Balanced Outputs. Fader Q Start compatible. Gain, treble, mid & bass control per ch
Chan
3
2
1
Master
Both
Yes
8
1-10
1 yr
$179.95
American Audio
Q-D6SRS
Front mini plug input for use MP3 players.
Chan
2
2
2
Master
XLR
No
7
1-10
1 yr
$219.95
American Audio
Q-FX Pro
Front mini plug input for use MP3 players.
Chan
4
2
4
Master / Zone
XLR
Yes
5
1-10
1 yr
$539.95
American Audio
Q-Record
4 Ch Mixer with USB Record/Playback
Chan
8
2
2
Master / Zone
XLR,
No
1
1-10
1 yr
$399.95
American Audio
Q-SD Mixer
More
XLR,
No
1
1-10
1 yr
$599.95
American Audio
Q-Spand MKII
Front mini plug input for use MP3 players.
Chan
4
3
3
Master
XLR
No
2
1-10
1 yr
$399.95
Behringer USA Inc.
EURORACK MX602A
2 mono mic/line and 2 stereo chs, 3-band EQs, a 2-track input and output, phantom power, phones output, balanced inputs and true main mix and control room outputs.
Overall
11+
4
2
Master
1/4”
No
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$79.99
3-ch, 19-inch Pro DJ mixer
RCA
Advanced SD Function. Big LCD display w/
RCA
Chan
8
2
2
RCA RCA
backlight. Front mini plug for MP3 players.
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65
MIXERS
MIXERS
MIXERS
MIXERS MFGR
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
EQ
INPUTS
OUTPUTS
EFFECTS
#RU
WGHT
WAR.
PRICE
(LBS)
LINE
PH
MIC
LABEL
Behringer USA Inc.
Eurorack UB2442FX-Pro
Compact mixer: 16 balanced highheadroom line inputs with dedicated gain controls on stereo chs 13-16, 10 new stateof-the-art, studio-grade IMP “Invisible” Mic Preamps, 3-band EQ with semi-parametric mid band, low-cut filter on all mono chs.
Overall
11+
1
5+
Master
XLR
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$299.99
Behringer USA Inc.
UB1204FX-PRO
It has all the same features as found in the UB1204-PRO, plus an integrated 24-bit digital stereo FX processor with 99 greatsounding VIRTUALIZER presets.
Overall
11+
1
4
Master
XLR
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$150.00
Behringer USA Inc.
VMX-1000 DJ MIXER
None
7
2
2
Master / Zone
XLR,
No
3
1-10
30 days
$179.99
Behringer USA Inc.
XENYX 1002
The XENYX 1002 has 10 inputs and a FX Send control for each ch. Additionally, assignable CD/tape inputs have been incorporated for routing flexibility.
Overall
10
1
2
Master
1/4”
No
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$69.99
Behringer USA Inc.
XENYX 1202
The XENYX 1202 has 12 inputs and a FX Send control for each ch. Additionally, assignable CD/tape inputs have been incorporated for routing flexibility.
Overall
11+
1
4
Master
1/4”
No
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$89.99
Behringer USA Inc.
XENYX 1222FX
The XENYX 1222FX has 16 inputs and 2 Aux Sends for each ch. Additionally, 2 multi-functional stereo Aux Returns have been incorporated for routing flexibility.
Overall
11+
1
5+
Master
XLR
Yes
Nonrack
11-20
1 yr
$209.99
Denon DJ
Denon DNX100 Compact Performance Mixer
This compact mixer has 2 chs each with 3 band EQ (-40db cut) ch fader curve adjust and reverse. Crossfader curve adjust and reverse.
Chan
4
2
1
Master
RCA
No
4
1-10
1 yr
$-
Denon DJ
Denon DNX500 Matrix Mixer
8 line and 2 phono inputs which can be freely assigned to any of 4 chs. 4 smooth 60 mm VCA ch faders. Responsive 45 mm VCA crossfader with contour adjustment.
Chan
8
2
2
Master
XLR,
Yes
3
1-10
1 yr
$399.00
Denon DNX900 Matrix Mixer
4 digital inputs on coaxial connections. 2 digital outputs are also provided in S/PDIF
None
No
3
1-10
1 yr
$599.00
DN-X050
Single-space, 2-ch compact rackmount mixer.
Chan
No
Nonrack
1-10
2 yr
$275.00
The smallest pro-quality DJ mixer on the market today.
Chan
No
Nonrack
1-10
2 yr
$225.00
Flagship 4-ch mixer sets the standard for Club, Mobile and Battle DJs with powerful, innovative features.
Chan
4
3
2
Master
XLR
Yes
6
11-20
2 yr
$750.00
10
3
3
Master / Zone
XLR,
Yes
Nonrack
11-20
1 yr
$399.00
Denon DJ
Denon DJ Denon DJ
DN-X120
TYPE
DIGITAL
RCA
RCA
8
3
2
More
XLR, RCA
2
2
1
Master
RCA , 1/4”
2
2
1
Master
RCA , 1/4”
Denon DJ
DN-X1500s
Gemini Sound Products
CS-02 Club Mixer
Chan
Gemini Sound Products
iPMX Pro Mixer
Chan
4
2
1
Master
XLR
No
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$119.95
Gemini Sound Products
i-Trax
Dual docking stations for iPod. Allows library management via PC. 2 Phono/line convertible inputs. Composite video output for use with photo/video-enabled iPod.
Chan
2
2
2
More
RCA
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$149.95
Gemini Sound Products
MM-03 Professional 4 Channel Stereo Mixer
8 line, 3 Mic, 2 convertible phono/line RCA inputs - Master, rec, and zone outputs - 1/4” balanced master outputs. 3-band rotary EQ per ch with cut. Assignable, user replaceable Rail Glide crossfader.
Chan
8
2
3
Master / Zone
RCA
No
Nonrack
11-20
1 yr
$169.95
Gemini Sound Products
MM-04 Professional 4 Channel Stereo Mixer
6 line, 3 mic, 2 convertible phono/line RCA inputs. Master, record, zone RCA outputs. 1/4” balanced master outputs. 3 band rotary EQ per ch w/ cut. DSP module
Overall
6
2
3
Master / Zone
RCA
No
4
11-20
1 yr
$229.95
Gemini Sound Products
MM-1000
3 Ch 19” mixer, 5 band master EQ
None
1
1
1
Master
XLR
Yes
1
1-10
3 yr
66
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gear guide
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RCA
$99.95
Auxiliary outputs are just that, additional outputs that can be individually mixed from the available chs for monitors, recording, and more. Having lots of auxes allows me to create lots of other mixes so that different performers can have different monitor mixes, all without affecting the main mix. Phantom power is voltage that is transmitted through the microphone cable to a device connected to it. This allows those devices (condenser mics, direct insert boxes, etc) to be powered by the console rather than a battery or external power supply. Small consoles typically have a global phantom power switch, meaning that every ch gets it or doesn’t. Larger and better consoles have groups of phantom power chs, or individually selectable phantom power chs. This allows us to send the power only down the chs we want to, and not the ones we don’t. Fader size simply dictates how much real estate we have to move that fader up and down. The larger the
djbuyingguide
beneath which the sound is reduced or eliminated. For example, a 100hz low cut will eliminate 100hz and lower. This is very useful for vocal chs. It quickly eliminates handling noise and potential feedback for a frequency that will likely not be produced by the vocalist anyway. The EQ strip can offer a variety of features, for me it’s important to have sweepable mids. This means that I can not only determine the attenuation for that frequency, but also the frequency itself. My favorite consoles have 2 sweepable mids, a low-mid and a high-mid. This is very useful in fine-tuning an input right on my ch strip.
A noisy board can compromise all great speakers, amplifiers, media playback and microphones. fader, the more precise our adjustments can be. Sub-groups and mute groups are very useful in managing large mixes. They allow us to assign several chs to effects easily, or to make wholesale adjustments in a particular group of chs. Drums, for example, can be grouped and once adjusted proportionately to themselves (snare, toms, kick, overheads, etc) can then be raised and lowered all at once. Mute groups operate in much the same way. All vocal mics can be placed into a single mute group, for example, so that during a break all stage mics can be muted with a single button, rather than locating several. A Sound Decision The common denominator between these categories is quality. Your mixing board is one of the most crucial pieces of gear in the system. It is the part that you, the operator, interfaces with directly the most and it is instrumental in the overall production of your show. A noisy board can compromise all great loudspeakers, amplifiers, media playback and microphones. One area that
is very critical, particularly when working with vocals, is the mic preamp. This circuit takes the very low electrical signal produced by a microphone and preamplifies it before inserting it into the mix. It seems painfully self-explanatory, but bad preamps can lead to bad sounding vocals. Another critical area, particularly in live sound, is the EQ section of the ch strip. Many EQs can color the sound in unintended and undesirable ways, whereas some EQs have a particular sound that is sought after. You’ll often hear tour sound talk about the “British EQ”, for example. Lastly, and certainly not least, are the moving parts. These are the knobs, faders, sliders, buttons, etc. Poor quality here can lead to early failures, bad sound, and great frustrations. At my gear supply company we offer consoles from less than $100 to greater than $400,000. I urge you to carefully weigh the features and pursue quality construction in your choice. Certainly we must be practical in what we spend, but the mixer is a poor place to be pennywise and pound-foolish. MB
MFGR
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
EQ
LINE
PH
MIC
LABEL
Gemini Sound Products
MM-3000
5 Ch 19” Mixer
None
1
1
1
Master
XLR
Yes
1
1-10
3 yr
Gemini Sound Products
PDM-02 Professional 4 channel Stereo Mixer
6 digital FX- scratch, H20, applause, copter, glass and scream. Echo section with repeat, delay, volume, speed rotary controls. Rotary master volume control.
Chan
7
2
3
More
RCA
Yes
5
11-20
1 yr
$189.95
Gemini Sound Products
PMX-01 2 Channel Stereo Mixer
2 convertible phono/line RCA inputs, 2 band rotary EQ control. Rotary gain ch control. VU display with bright LED. Cue section fader allowing cue mix.
Chan
2
2
1
Master
RCA
No
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$59.95
Gemini Sound Products
PMX-02 Pro Stereo Mixer
Chan
4
2
1
Master
RCA
No
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$79.95
Gemini Sound Products
PMX-03 Professional
EQ kill sw w/ Flash effect. Dual VU display with bright LEDs. 2-band rotary Mic EQ, volume controls. Hamster/reverse crossfader curve control
Chan
4
2
1
Master
XLR,
No
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$99.95
Gemini Sound Products
PS-02 Professional 3 Channel Stereo Mixer
3 band EQ kill sw w/ Flash effect. Mic section with rotary Mic volume, high, low EQ controls. Fader section with hamster/reverse, slope.
Chan
6
3
1
More
RCA
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$199.95
Gemini Sound Products
PS-04 Pro Stereo FX Mixer
Bright blue LCD display for FX names/parameters, DSP module with 25 effects. FX assign sw. Dry/Wet fader control.
Chan
6
3
1
More
RCA
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$219.95
VU display with bright LED
INPUTS
OUTPUTS TYPE
DIGITAL EFFECTS
RCA
#RU
WGHT
WAR.
PRICE
(LBS) $149.95
mobilebeat.com
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MIXERS
MIXERS
MIXERS
MIXERS MFGR
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
EQ
INPUTS
OUTPUTS
DIGITAL EFFECTS
#RU
WGHT
WAR.
PRICE
(LBS)
LINE
PH
MIC
LABEL
TYPE
Gemini Sound Products
PS-424x
10-inch, 2-Ch Stereo Mixer&nbsp;4 line, 2 convertible phono/line RCA inputsGround screw for turntable connectivityRotary gain ch control3 band rotary EQ per ch with -30db cutsScrew-less bottom panel for unobstructed mixingRail Glide CrossfaderCrossfader Curve and reverse controls
Chan
4
2
1
Master
RCA
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$79.95
Gemini Sound Products
PS-626x
10-inch, 3-Ch Stereo Mixer&nbsp;6 line, 2 convertible Phono/Line RCA inputsGround screw for turntable connectivityRotary gain ch control3 band rotary EQ per ch with -30db cutsScrew-less bottom panel for unobstructed mixingUser-replaceable Rail Glide&trade; CrossfaderCrossfader Cu
Chan
6
2
1
Master
RCA
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$99.95
Korg USA
KM-202 Dynamic DJ Mixer
KAOSS PAD, 6 types of EQ, adjustable crossfader curve; 100 effects programs
Chan
2
2
1
Master / Zone
RCA
Yes
Nonrack
11-20
1 yr
$600.00
Korg USA
KM-402 Dynamic DJ Mixer
KAOSS PAD, 6 types of EQ, adjustable crossfader curve; 100 effects programs
Chan
4
3
1
Master / Zone
RCA
Yes
Nonrack
11-20
1 yr
$720.00
Korg USA
ZERO4 Live Control Mixer
Digital mixer, audio I/O, MIDI controller and effects processor all in one unit.
Overall
4
4
1
Master / Zone
XLR
Yes
Nonrack
11-20
1 yr
$1,700.00
Korg USA
ZERO8 Live Control Console
Digital mixer, audio I/O, MIDI controller and effects processor all in one unit.
Chan
8
3
2
Master / Zone
XLR
Yes
Nonrack
11-20
1 yr
$2,450.00
Mackie
Mackie 1642-VLZ3
The 1642-VLZ3’s 3 unique ch strip formats allow you to input and shape any kind of signal, including mic, line, and stereo instruments
Overall
11+
1
5+
Master
XLR
No
Nonrack
21-30
1 yr
$600.00
Mackie
Mackie ProFX12
The ProFX12 is loaded with 6 Mackie high-headroom, low-noise mic preamps, 3band EQ, a built-in DI for direct connection of a guitar or bass, integrated “Gig-Ready” effects, precision 7-band GEQ and more.
Overall
11+
1
5+
Master
1/4”
No
Nonrack
21-30
1 yr
$-
Mackie
Mackie ProFX8
The ProFX8 is fully stocked, featuring 4 Mackie high-headroom, low-noise mic preamps, 3-band EQ, a built-in DI for direct connection of a guitar or bass, integrated effects, precision 7-band GEQ and more.
Overall
8
1
4
Master
1/4”
No
8
11-20
1 yr
$230.00
MARATHON
DJM-02
2U rack space , 2 line , 2 line/phono swable, 1 mic, 3 band EQ
None
1
1
1
Master
XLR
Yes
2
1-10
30 days
$199.99
MARATHON
DJM-101
Dual 10 band EQ, up to 8 line inputs & 3 band EQ on mics
Overall
2
2
2
More
XLR
No
Nonrack
1-10
30 days
$159.99
MARATHON
DJM-102
Digital echo with variable delay, repeat level, 8 digital sound effects with speed control, Dual 10 band EQ, uo to 8 line inputs, 2 mic inputs & 3 band EQ on mics.
Overall
8
1
2
More
XLR
Yes
4
1-10
30 days
$189.99
MARATHON
DJM-200
5-Ch 19” mixer, 8 line inputs, 3 phono, 3 mics, EQ on each ch
None
8
3
3
Master
XLR
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
30 days
$239.99
MARATHON
DJM-200FX
4-Ch 19” Mixer, vocal effects, 5 line inputs, 3 phono, 5 mics, EQ on each ch, balanced outs
Chan
5
3
5+
Master
XLR
Yes
4
1-10
30 days
$279.99
Numark
C2
5-band EQ, auto-ducking, auto-muting. Digital input
None
1
1
1
Master / Zone
XLR
Yes
4
1-10
1 yr
$189.95
Numark
C3
3-band EQ on every ch, EQ on mic ch, split or blend cueing, PFL gain-adjust with meter, fader start, panning on master fader, replaceable, assignable crossfader. Digital input.
None
1
1
1
Master / Zone
XLR
Yes
4
1-10
1 yr
$259.95
68
mobile:beat
gear guide
2008
MFGR
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
EQ
INPUTS
OUTPUTS
DIGITAL EFFECTS
#RU
WGHT
WAR.
PRICE
(LBS)
LINE
PH
MIC
LABEL
TYPE
Numark
C3FX
5 mic inputs and digital effects for DJs, clubs and more. 4 chs, each with 3band EQ, are joined by a DJ mic input. Advanced digital effect-processing by Alesis includes multiple reverbs, chorus, flanger, echo, chorus/reverb, and more.
None
1
1
1
Master / Zone
XLR
Yes
4
1-10
1 yr
$299.95
Numark
C3USB
USB for connection to Mac or PC. 3-band EQ on each ch and many other features. Digital input.
None
1
1
1
Master / Zone
XLR
Yes
4
11-20
1 yr
$299.95
Numark
CM200USB
2 USB audio devices built into the mixer mean no drivers or sound cards.
Overall
8
3
3
Master / Zone
XLR
No
3
11-20
30 days
$299.95
Numark
M1
M1 has all the features you need to get maximum performance out of minimum space. Digital input.
None
1
1
1
Master / Zone
XLR
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$79.95
Numark
M1USB
Compact, 2-ch scratch mixer with USB audio I/O. You can plug in turntables, CD players, and a microphone.
None
1
1
1
Master / Zone
XLR
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$99.95
Numark
M3
Tabletop DJ mixer. EQs on each ch, crossfader-style cueing, and a reversible, slopeadjustable crossfader. High, Mid, and Low Kills, Transform (Punch) button on each ch.
None
1
1
1
Master / Zone
XLR
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$109.95
Numark
X1USB
Compact digital scratch mixer with USB audio I/O. 100%-digital signal path with Alesis technology—record your sets directly into your Mac or PC. Look-ahead peak-limiter. Sub-Bass Synthesizer control.
None
1
1
1
Master / Zone
XLR
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
30 days
$259.95
Numark
X6
Digital scratch mixer with 12 BEAT SYNC digital effects (24-bit). 100%-digital signal path with Alesis technology.
None
1
1
1
Master
XLR
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$279.95
Numark
X9
Digital scratch mixer with 12 BEAT SYNC digital effects (24-bit). 100%-digital signal path with Alesis technology.
None
3
1
1
Master
XLR
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$379.95
Peavey Electronics
Peavey PV(R) 8
6 chs, with one through 4 having XLR inputs, ch insert, phantom power, 3-band EQ and effects send.
Peavey Electronics
Pro Mix 1
Individual stereo music chs, phono/CD chs, fully assignable crossfader, dual 7band graphic EQs and a stereo effect loop.
Overall
10
4
2
Master / Zone
Peavey Electronics
Roto Mix
Modular design—each ch has its own independent circuit board, reducing crosstalk.
Chan
6
3
5+
More
Pioneer ProDJ
DJM-1000
Delivering supreme levels of digital sound, the DJM-1000’s input--output path allows for transparent signal processing when combined with Pioneer’s DJ and VJ decks. Digital input.
Chan
DJM-3000 19” Mixer
Pioneer’s DJM3000 is equipped with an industry first “Effect Mix Mode” that easily and accurately effects phrases in a BPMlinked operation. Digital input.
Chan
Pioneer ProDJ
DJM-400
Pioneer’s newest entry-level mixer with an all-digital mixing bus (24bit/96kHz), features 7 onboard effects, including the all new In-Loop Sampler!
Chan
2
2
2
Master
Pioneer ProDJ
DJM-600
The industry favorite, with sampling, is now available in fashionable black! Equipped with an auto beat sampler that easily and accurately samples phrases in a BPM-linked operation.
None
4
4
1
Master
The perfect all-purpose, all-style Pro DJ mixer. Play your way.
None
Pioneer ProDJ
Pioneer ProDJ
DJM-700
8
$130.00
RCA
No
4
11-20
4+ yr
$249.99
XLR,
No
3
21-30
4+ yr
$999.99
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
30 days
$2,899.00
Yes
Nonrack
11-20
1 yr
$1,199.00
RCA
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$699.00
XLR,
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$699.00
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
30 days
RCA
5
3
3
Master
XLR, RCA
4
4
3
More
XLR , 1/4”
RCA
5
3
2
Master
XLR, RCA
m o b i l e:b e a t
g e a r g u id e
$1,299.00
2008
69
MIXERS
MIXERS
MIXERS
MIXERS MFGR Pioneer ProDJ
PRODUCT DJM-800
DESCRIPTION
EQ
The new DJM-800 incorporates features recommended by many Pro DJs and club engineers, raising the bar on sound fidelity and ease of mixer operation. Digital input.
Chan
INPUTS
OUTPUTS
LINE
PH
MIC
LABEL
5
3
2
Master
TYPE XLR,
#RU
WGHT
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
30 days
$1,549.00
DIGITAL EFFECTS
RCA
WAR.
PRICE
(LBS)
Pioneer ProDJ
DJM-909
World’s First Touch Screen Effects Control
Chan
2
2
1
More
XLR
Yes
Nonrack
11-20
1 yr
$1,499.00
Pioneer ProDJ
SVM-1000
World’s first reference audio and video combination mixer designed for elite DJs, VJs and club venues to enhance their audio/video performance. Built-in 11” LCD touch-panel display, symmetric ch layout, 4-ch audio and video inputs, Still Image Sampler and hundreds of combinations of video effects. Digital input.
Chan
6
2
2
Master
XLR,
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
30 days
$5,499.00
The Empath mixer combines the vision of Grandmaster Flash and Rane technology.
Chan
No
Nonrack
1-10
2 yr
$1,199.00
No
3
11-20
2 yr
$1,599.00
RCA
Rane Corporation
Empath Mixer
Rane Corporation
MP 2016a Mixer
Rotary-controlled mixer featuring 6 Input Chs, Booth and House Outputs, Pre-Effects Tape Outputs, Post-Effects Tape Outputs with Level control, swable Effects Loop, and Headphone Cueing.
Overall
Rane Corporation
MP 2S Mixer
Packed with all the necessary features for a great performance and perfect mix. Each Program bus selects any of the 2 selectable phono/line Inputs or 2 stereo line Inputs. Any Input can appear on either side of the Crossfader. Long lasting, noise-free 60 mm Active Crossfader. Low-noise Headphone Amp. Tape, Aux Out.
Chan
2
2
Rane Corporation
MP 4 Mixer
Serato Scratch LIVE software is included, with great library management and file handling features, without direct vinyl and CD manipulation. Simultaneously play analog sources, play digital files, and record a stereo source and cue another source.
Chan
2
Rane Corporation
MP 44 Mixer
Top-of-the-line mixer is a step above its predecessor, the MP 24. The MP 44 features 2 mic inputs, 4 input busses with 3-band full-cut EQ, Aux in and out, intuitive cueing, and a master limiter that can protect the rest of your system.
Chan
9
Rane Corporation
TTM 56 Mixer
Rane’s patented magnetic fader is the fastest, most accurate, and longest lasting on the planet, using non-contact magnetic position sensors.
Chan
Rane Corporation
TTM 57SL Mixer
Integrates the best of Rane hardware with Serato Scratch LIVE software, allowing you to fully control Scratch LIVE without touching your laptop! Internal sweeping Filter and Echo effects.
Chan
4
4
1
More
Roland Corporation
M-10DX Digital Mixer
Portable 24-bit/96kHz Digital Mixer with Built-in Spectrum Analyzer
Chan
10
1
2
More
Roland Corporation
M-16DX Digital Mixer
Revolutionary digital mixer and audio interface for the studio and stage
Chan
11+
1
4
More
Stanton
RM.406
Superior Sound Technology, diffused LEDs and lighted controls. FX Loop, Booth, Sub outputs, 3 Mic inputs. 10 Line/CD inputs and 4 Phono inputs. 3 Mic inputs (2 XLR and 1/4” with 3band EQ and Talkover function). Mini input for MP3 player.
Chan
10
4
3
Master
70
mobile:beat
gear guide
2008
4 5
3
Master / Zone
XLR ,
Master / Zone
XLR,
1
Master / Zone
XLR
No
1
1-10
2 yr
$449.99
2
1
Master
XLR
Yes
1
1-10
2 yr
$799.00
4
2
More
XLR,
No
4
11-20
2 yr
$1,999.00
No
Nonrack
1-10
2 yr
$999.00
XLR
Yes
8
1-10
3 yr
$1,799.99
RCA ,
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$449.00
Yes
1
1-10
1 yr
$799.00
No
4
1-10
-
N/S
4
1 2
1/4” RCA
RCA
3
2
1
Master
RCA , 1/4”
1/4” 1/4” XLR
MIXERS
MIXERS MFGR
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
EQ
INPUTS
OUTPUTS
DIGITAL EFFECTS
#RU
WGHT
WAR.
PRICE
(LBS)
LINE
PH
MIC
LABEL
TYPE
Stanton
M.304
3-ch mixer with Penny & Giles crossfader and FX loop. Superior Sound Technology. 3 Phono inputs, 6 Line inputs, plus Mic input with EQ. Gain knob with LEDs and 3-band EQ on all 3 chs, plus kill switches on ch1&3. Cue section with PFL and Cue Pan.
Chan
6
3
1
Master / Zone
XLR
No
Nonrack
1-10
-
TriceraSoft
Summit Mini-Mixer
Solution for mixing 3 pre-amped inputs with delay (echo) and a stereo input. 3 pre-amped mic inputs with seperate gain controls and shared echo.
None
2
1
3
Master
XLR
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
30 days
$124.95
Vestax
Vestax DSM-360
3-band EQ on each pgm ch and mic control, mic talkover, 2-band EQ on zone.
Chan
4
2
2
Master / Zone
XLR,
No
4
1-10
1 yr
$149.99
Vestax DSM-410
Balanced XLR outputs, 3-band EQ on each pgm ch and mic control, mic talkover, 2-band EQ on zone control.
Chan
Master / Zone
XLR,
No
5
1-10
1 yr
$199.99
Vestax DSM-420
Dual 7-band graphic EQs; mic talkover, 6 built-in sound effects, built-in echo.
Overall
Master / Zone
XLR,
No
5
1-10
1 yr
$249.99
Vestax
Vestax PMC-08Pro
Elite 2-ch digital mixer is in a class of its own. 24bit 96K digital signal processor. Digital input.
Chan
3
2
1
Master / Zone
XLR
No
Nonrack
11-20
1 yr
$799.99
Vestax
Vestax VMC-002XL
Chan
2
2
2
Master
XLR,
No
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$169.99
No
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$499.00
No
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$299.99
No
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$249.99
Vestax
Vestax
Vestax
4
5
3
3
3
2
RCA RCA
RCA
RCA
Vestax VMC-004FX
New built-in multi effector. Stylish design, balanced XLR outputs and basic DJ functions with simple operability that matches any type of DJing.
Chan
Vestax VMC-004XL
A compact multi-input, stereo 4-ch mixer. 4 independent input pgm chs and 2 master outs.
Chan
Vestax VMC-185XL
Effect Send & Return
Chan
Yamaha
EMX212S
Mix, process and deliver your sound with maximum quality and creative control. SPX digital effects, built-in graphic EQ and flexible input opportunities offer outstanding sound performance.
Chan
11+
2
5+
Master
More
Yes
Nonrack
11-20
1 yr
$449.00
Yamaha
EMX5014C
Versatile line input capabilities, plenty of power and top-shelf signal processing. Single-knob compression on 6 of the chs. Power amp mode selector. Signal processing:16 pro-grade progs. 500W per ch
Chan
11+
2
5+
Master
More
Yes
Nonrack
21-30
1 yr
$899.00
Yamaha
EMX5016CF
One knob compression on the mono microphone and mic chs, a 9-band Digital Graphic EQ with Presets and Memory; 2 SPX Digital Multi-Effects Processors. Frequency Response Correction system matches room response, kills feedback.
Chan
11+
2
5+
Master
More
Yes
Nonrack
21-30
1 yr
$1,249.00
Yamaha
EMX512SC
Mix, process and deliver your sound with maximum quality and creative control. All 4 mono mic/line chs feature built-in compressors. SPX digital effects, built-in graphic EQ and flexible input opportunities.
Chan
11+
2
5+
Master
More
Yes
Nonrack
21-30
1 yr
$679.00
Yamaha
MG166C-USB
Includes Cubase AI4. USB port for advanced digital live recording. Outstanding selection of internal effects. Lightweight, compact package. Technology from Yamaha Pro-grade consoles. Bright LED indicators for easy reading even in daylight. High-performance mic preamps w/ phantom power and single-knob compression on several chs. Built-in digital effects.
None
11+
3
5+
Master
More
Yes
Nonrack
1-10
1 yr
$599.00
Vestax
Vestax
4
2
2
More
N/S
XLR, RCA
4
6
4
3
2
2
Master / Zone
XLR,
Master / Zone
XLR,
RCA
RCA
m o b i l e:b e a t
g e a r g u id e
2008
71
MANUFACTURERS & SERVICE PROVIDERS
MANUFACTURERS & SERVICE PROVIDERS COMPANY
Website / DESCRIPTION
phone
2Surge.com
www.2surge.com
240-266-7568
info@2surge.com
Ace Karaoke
www.acekaraoke.com
888-893-7464
sales@acekaraoke.com
Akai Professional Corp
www.akaipro.com
817-834-1900
jterry@akaiproamerica.com
AKG Acoustics
www.akgusa.com
818-920-3212
akgusasales@harman.com
Alesis
www.alesis.com
401.658.5760
marketing@alesis.com
Allen & Heath
www.allen-heath.com/us
866-474-7711
support@allen-heath.com
American Audio
www.americanaudio.us
800-322-6337
info@americanaudio.us
800-322-6337
info@americandj.com
888-723-5776
office@adja.org
Helping you achieve the next level!
www.americandj.com
American DJ
Quality, Affordable, & Reliable Special Effects Lighting & Audio Products. From A Company You Can Trust!
www.adja.org
American DJ Association
The ADJA is the largest, fastest-growing Trade Association for Mobile DJs. The ADJA’s #1 goal™ We help DJs build and grow their business. We do that by providing exceptional services and benefits. Nobody can match, let alone exceed what the ADJA provides its members. No one can do more to help you build and grow your business than ADJA. Join the ADJA today and begin to reap the benefits of Education, Networking & Support. Sign up online or call the national office at 888-723-5776. “Building Excellence, One DJ at a Time.” www.arribacase.com
Arriba Cases
626-217-6710
info@arribacase.com
INTRODUCING ARRIBA CASES: The first brand of soft cases to protect your lighting investment!
ART (Applied Research & Technology)
www.artproaudio.com
585-436-2720
support@artproaudio.com
Ashly Audio
www.ashly.com
585-842-0010
info@ashly.com
Audio Technica
www.audio-technica.com
330-686-2600
pro@atus.com
Audiopile
www.audiopile.net
509-287-2020
audiopile@starband.net
B-52 Pro
www.b-52pro.com
323-277-4100
sales@b-52pro.com
B-52 Professional manfactures a wide array of active and passive speaker systems for both permanent installations and mobile musicians—both live sound and electronic replay. B-52 also makes the PRODIGY and PRODIGY FX—the worlds most advanced all-in-one DJ workstations. Bag End
www.bagend.com
847-382-4550
usedcars@bagend.com
BBE Sound
www.bbesound.com
714-897-6766
info@bbesound.com
Behringer USA Inc.
www.behringer.com
425-672-0816
sales@behringer.com
BEHRINGER is a world-leading designer and manufacturer of pro audio products. It has a comprehensive range of products, including mixing consoles, analog and digital signal processors, guitar and bass amplifiers, studio-reference monitors, microphones, professional lighting systems, public-address enclosures, DJ equipment and computer-based recording products. Bose
www.bose.com
877-428-2673
sales@bose.com
BPM List
www.bpmlist.com
718-442-2288
donny@bpmlist.com
Carvin Pro Audio
www.carvin.com
800-854-2235
sales@carvin.com
Casstek
www.casstek.com/dj.htm
888-849-1302
mail@casstek.com
CBI Professional Wiring Systems
www.cbicables.com
800-346-3462
sales@cbicables.com
Celestion
www.celestion.com
732-616-7217
sales@celestion.com
Cerwin-Vega
www.cerwinvega.com
954-316-1500
jmoore@stantondj.com
Chartbuster Karaoke
www.chartbusterkaraoke.com
865-577-5597
sales@chartbusterkaraoke.com
72
mobile:beat
gear guide
2008
COMPANY
Website / DESCRIPTION
phone
CHAUVET
www.chauvetlighting.com
800-762-1084
info@chauvetlighting.com
CHAUVET® is at the forefront of LED technology, offering one of the widest range of LED-fitted effects designed with the mobile DJ in mind. Flagship fixtures in that range include the ground-breaking Vue™ Series of LED mid air beam effects; the pioneering MiN™Spot and Wash yokes, compact and lightweight enough to fit in the palm of one hand; the award-winning elan™ LED beam effect and DJ Bank color wash—in a league of their own; the LED Techno Strobes and Shadow blacklights; the LEDrain™ PAR-like cans and LED PAR 38 packages for a ready-to-go show out of the box CITC
www.citcfx.com
425-776-4950
info@citcfx.com
Colorado Sound N’ Light Inc.
www.csnl.com/
888-429-0418
csnl@earthlink.net
Community Professional Loudspeakers
www.communitypro.com
610-876-3400
info@communitypro.com
Conquest Sound
www.conquestsound.com
708-534-0390
info@conquestsound.com
Cortex
www.cortex-pro.com
732-346-0061
sales@gci-technologies.com
Countryman Associates Inc.
www.countryman.com
650-364-9988
sales@countryman.com
Crate Audio
www.crateaudio.com
314-727-4512
sales@stlouismusic.com
Creative Imagineering
www.gameshowmania.com
800-644-3141
dean@creativeimagineering.com
Crest Audio
www.crestaudio.com
866-812-7378
sales@crestaudio.com
574-294-8000
customerservice@crownintl.com
Crown Audio
www.crownaudio.com
Cubesol
www.clubdjpro.com
Da-Lite Screens
www.da-lite.com
800-622-3737
info@da-lite.com
DAS Audio of America
www.dasaudio.com
305-436-0521
sales@dasaudio.com
DBX Professional Products
www.driverack.com
801- 568-7660
support@dbxpro.com
Denon DJ
www.denondj.com
630-741-0330
techsupport@d-mpro.com
DigiGames
www.triviaproducer.com
888-874-8427
sales@triviaproducer.com
sales@mobiledjsoftware.com
EVERY NIGHT millions of TV viewers play along with their favorite TV game shows - buying vowels, and blurting out answers. Who doesn’t have fun pretending to be a contestant™ Now THEY can be in YOUR audience. SO, FOR 100 POINTS: What is the best way to make your next event a hit™ THE ANSWER IS “THE NEW KARAOKE”—fun and interactive trivia parties! CALL DIGIGAMES TODAY to discover how you can bring the new hot craze to your area and add something exciting and sensational for your audience who get to experience real TV game shows! DigiGames’ mobile lockout buzzer gameshow systems and TV-style software games are used every day by entertainers, schools, employee training progs, and more, around the world. Disk-Store
www.disk-store.com
800-242-5656
jdi@maintrainer.com
DJ Drop In’s
www.djdropins.com
207-479-5526
ronb@djdropins.com
DJ Skirts
www.djskirts.com
630-523-1295
steve@djskirts.com
DJ Utilities
www.djutilities.com
732-905-1800
info@djutilities.com
DJ Webmin
www.djwebmin.com
800-257-7635
sales@djwebmin.com
719-52-POWER
djpower@djpower.com
DJ Webmin is a friendly web-based program with an easy to use interface, navigation menu and employee controlling—a must for any size event booking company who needs to administrate their business! You will love how easy this is! DJPower International LLC
INTERNATIONAL, LLC
www.djpower.com
DJPower Int. LLC, THE ORIGINATOR OF MP3 MIXING, has a complete line of products specifically designed for DJs, Radio Stations, Karaoke, Nightclubs and anyone else wanting professional digital sound, video and lighting. All products were created with the valuable input of our customers from around the world. We now have video mixing, lighting control, scheduling, graphics, banners and more!
DMXSoft
www.dmxsoft.com
Dynacord
www.dynacord.com
EAW - Eastern Acoustic Works ECLER
contact@dmxsoft.com 952-881-4051
info@telex.com
www.eaw.com
508-234-6158
sales@eaw.com
www.eclerusa.com
1-866-99-ECLER
info@eclerusa.com
Edirol
www.edirol.com
360-594-4282
sales@edirol.com
Elation Professional
www.elationlighting.com
866-245-6726
info@elationlighting.com
m o b i l e:b e a t
g e a r g u id e
2008
73
MANUFACTURERS & SERVICE PROVIDERS
MANUFACTURERS & SERVICE PROVIDERS
MANUFACTURERS & SERVICE PROVIDERS
MANUFACTURERS & SERVICE PROVIDERS COMPANY
Website / DESCRIPTION
phone
Electro-Voice
www.electrovoice.com
952-451-3068
michael.doucot@us.bosch.com
Eliminator Lighting
www.eliminatorlighting.com
323-948-0480
info@eliminatorlighting.com
ERG Music
www.ergmusic.com
800-465-0779
info@ergmusic.com
Event Lighting Solutions / ColorMaker
www.eventlightingsolutions.com
321-279-7584
eventlighting@cfl.rr.com
Make that event special. We have portable, totally wireless, remote controlled fixtures, battery packs and hand-held controllers to give you hours of brilliant dancing light on walls, tables, columns, cubes or spandex covered columns. We use ColorMaker brand products with ColorMaker technology, a name known around the world. We GUARANTEE you the best rental rates in the USA. Set yourself apart from the competition with high-quality lighting! Face Audio
www.faceaudio.com
801-233-7043
info@faceaudio.com
FBT USA Inc.
www.fbtusa.net
860-829-0434
fbtusa@sbcglobal.net
Focusrite
www.focusrite.com
866 474-7711
info@americanmusicandsound. com
Frankenstands
www.frankenstand.com
619-223-7587
info@frankenstand.com
Lifetime Warranty on the stand •10-year Warranty on the shock absorber • It lifts the speaker for you • It’s easier on your back • Strongest stand available • Invented by a DJ, for DJs.
Furman Sound
www.furmansound.com
707-763-1010
info@furmansound.com
Gator Cases
www.gatorcases.com
813-221-4191
sales@gatorcases.com
Gem Sound
www.gemsound.com
718-292-5972
info@gemsound.com
Gemini Sound Products
www.geminidj.com
732-346-0061
sales@gci-technologies.com
Gigskinz Bags
www.gigskinz.com
562-972-9094
skinz@gigskinz.com
Global Mobile Entertainers Association
www.globalmobile.org
877-DJ-ASSOC
art@globalmobile.org
Global Truss
www.globaltruss.com
323-415-6225
info@globaltruss.com
Global Truss (formerly Stage Tools) originated over 10 years ago in Holland and now is available in the USA. We specialize in high quality, aluminum and steel general purpose lighting and stage trussing designed for live stages, theatres, night clubs, church installations mobile applications. We carry a large variety of truss products: Square Truss, Triangular Truss, I-Beam Truss, Clamps, Box Truss, Circular Truss, Lifts /Lifters, Crank Stands, Junction Blocks, Aluminum, Steel, furniture, tables, chairs, Truss Corners, Light Stands, Lighting Stands, Towers, Sleeve Blocks, Hoists, Winchs and Crank-up Stands.Our truss bears the certification mark from TÜV, a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL), just like OSHA. Grundorf Corporation
www.grundorf.com
712-322-3900
sales@grundorf.com
Hercules
hercules.com/us/
877-484-5536
iKey Audio
www.ikey-audio.com
732-346-0061
sales@gci-technologies.com
Intelligence Inc.
www.intelligenceinc.com
312-635-8900
support.intelligenceinc.com
Intelligence, Inc. is the inventor and developer of high-tech advanced interactive applications. Since our inception in 2002, Intelligence, Inc. has transformed the wedding and events industry by providing professional event service providers with web-based tools for effectively communicating with prospects and clients. These tools allow businesses to book events online and offer their clients complete online event planning. Intelligence, Inc. is a leader in online technologies with an impressive portfolio of dynamic services that are in use by thousands of companies in over a dozen countries worldwide. Irradiant ®
www.irradianthq.com
847-782-8600
info@irradianthq.com
Island Cases
www.islandcases.com
631-563-0633
sales@hybridcases.com
JBL Professional
www.jblpro.com
818-894-8850
info@jblpro.com
Klark Teknik
www.klarkteknik.com/
800-392-3497
michael.doucot@us.bosch.com
Korg USA
www.korg.com
631-390-6500
support@korgusa.com
KS Audio
www.ksaudiousa.com
727-447-9656
info@ksaudiousa.com
KV2 Audio
www.kv2audio.com
866-474-7711
info@americanmusicandsound. com
Le Maitre Special Effects
www.lemaitrefx.com
800-388-0617
angie.cromp@lemaitrefx.com
Lodestar Ent. LLC (VJ-Pro)
www.vj-pro.com
607 988 9866
info@vj-pro.com
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COMPANY
Website / DESCRIPTION
phone
Mackie
www.mackie.com
800-258-6883
sales@mackie.com
MARATHON
www.marathonpro.com
213-612-5814
info@marathonpro.com
Founded in 1999, Marathon is a leading manufacturer and distributor of Flight Ready DJ Cases, PA Speakers, Light Stands, Trussing Systems, Amplifiers & Audio Products! Martin
www.martinpro.com
954-858-1800
martinus@martinpro.com
M-Audio
www.m-audio.com
866-657-6434
sales@m-audio.com
MBT Lighting
www.mbtlighting.com
800-845-1922
info@mbtlighting.com
MegaSeg/Fidelity Media
www.megaseg.com
217-351-9952
sales@megaseg.com
Meteor Light and Sound
www.meteor-global.com
256-461-8000
sales@meteor-usa.com
Mi Tee Cables
www.miteecables.com
847-662-3490
info@miteecables.com
Midas
www.midasconsoles.com
800-392-3497
michael.doucot@us.bosch.com
MixMeister Technology
www.mixmeister.com
703-637-9378
sales@mixmeister.com
Music Database Software
www.musicdatabasesoftware.com
651-688-9600
info@musicdatabasesoftware.com
Music Database 2000 software for cataloging your music collection.
Music Magic
www.musicmagic4u.com
631-821-7980
sales@musicmagic4u.com
Music Trends
www.musictrends.com
516-796-7755
info@musictrends.com
Nady Systems
www.nady.com
510-652-2411
bandoni@nady.com
National Association of Mobile Entertainers
www.nameentertainers.com
800-434-8274
bruce@nameentertainers.com
Novation
www.novationmusic.com
866 474-7711
info@americanmusicandsound.com
Numark
www.numark.com
401-658-3131
info@numark.com
Numark is obsessed with designing equipment that meets the individual need of every DJ. That’s why the sound of Numark has been present in scratches, breaks, and beats for more than 30 years. Before we develop new products, we ask these questions: What tools does a DJ need to create and deliver a signature sound™ What functions and features will give a DJ ultimate control and creativity in battles, clubs, studios, weddings, and sets at the house at the end of the street™ From basic tools to the most advanced gear for forward professionals, our equipment is designed and engineered to stand up to the rigors of this experience. We’re proud to deliver the most advanced line of gear available today, including the world’s highest-torque turntable motor, the world’s first 100% digital 10” scratch mixer, and the world’s first CD players that provide simultaneous control of multiple effects. Listening. Anticipating. Responding. Hear Numark. Odyssey Innovative Designs
www.odysseygear.com/
626-334-0800
sales@odysseygear.com
Omnisistem Lights & Effects
www.omnisistem.co
253-395-9500
info@omnisistem.com
On-Stage Stands
www.onstagestands.com
800-289-8889
jkw@musicpeopleinc.com
Opti Kinetics
www.opt-ikinetics.com
804-752-2570
optius@opti-kinetics.com
Optikinetics Ltd.
www.optikinetics.com
800-575-6784
optius@optikinetics.com
Optima Lighting Inc
www.optimalighting.com
718-433-2344
info@optimalighting.com
Ots Labs
www.otslabs.com
61755703333
admin@otszone.com
PCDJ - Digital One Audio
www.pcdj.com
727-799-3828
sales@pcdj.com
Peavey Electronics
www.pvdj.com
601-483-5365
domesticsales@peavey.com
Phonic Corporation
www.phonic.com
813-890-8872
info@phonic.com
Pioneer ProDJ
www.pioneerdj.com
310-952-2000
ppdj@pioneerprodj.com
Whether you’re a club or mobile DJ, Pioneer Pro DJ offers the highest quality, Industry Standard DJ gear available today. You’ll appreciate the robust build of the CDJ-1000MK3, with its familiar high-quality polished look and clean layout. The new DJM-1000 professional DJ mixer incorporates suggestions from world-renowned DJs resulting in high quality audio, improved functionality and increased user-friendliness. If you’re looking to take your set to the next level, drop in the new EFX-1000 into your rig, giving you the power to express your sonic creativity in new ways. All of this alone would be enough to set Pioneer Pro DJ apart from the competition, but Pioneer had to take it to the next step by introducing the world’s first DVD turntable, adding DVD video to the DJ power of a CDJ-1000. Pioneer Pro DJ... simply put, we’re the Industry Standard.
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MANUFACTURERS & SERVICE PROVIDERS
MANUFACTURERS & SERVICE PROVIDERS
MANUFACTURERS & SERVICE PROVIDERS
MANUFACTURERS & SERVICE PROVIDERS COMPANY
Website / DESCRIPTION
phone
Porter Case Inc.
www.portercase.com
574-289-2616
garypond@portercase.com
Pro Co Sound
www.procosound.com
800-523-7360
info@procosound.com
ProCases Inc.
www.procases.com
800-4DJ-USES
info@procases.com
ProDJ Publishing
www.prodjpublishing.com
800-257-7635
sales@prodj.com
The leading publishers of books, CDs and DVDs for the disc jockey community. Publishers of Mobile Beat Magazine, ProDJ.Com’s essential DJ content. The new Guerilla Marketing Companion for DJs is a must-read for serious DJ business owners.
www.promoonly.com
Promo Only
407-331-3600
sales@promoonly.com
Promo Only is THE music and music video source for DJs and music professionals. Stay ahead in our industry with our music service subscriptions that give you access to a wide range of formats, from hip-hop music to Latin music videos to Country to Club Mix Videos, just to name a few.
Pyle Pro Audio
www.pyleaudio.com
718-236-8000
sales@pyleaudio.com
QSC Audio
www.qscaudio.com
800-854-4079
info@qscaudio.com
After more than four decades in the business, QSC Audio Products Inc., has become a globally recognized leader in audio manufacturing. This prominence is the result of the company’s mission to establish new standards of reliability and performance through the development of breakthrough technologies. Rane Corporation
www.rane.com
425-355-6000
mikem@rane.com
RareRemixes.com
www.rareremixes.com
Road Ready Cases
www.roadreadycases.com
562-972-9094
usa@roadreadycases.com
Rock-N-Roll To Go Lighting Systems
www.DJLightingSystems.com
727-376-7625
djlighting@verizon.net
Roland Corporation U.S.
www.rolandus.com
323-890-3700
media@rolandus.com
Rolls
www.rolls.com
801-263-9053
info@rolls.com
RSQ Audio
www.mediasynccorp.com
909-287-0609
david@mediasynccorp.com
Samson Technologies Corp.
www.samsontech.com
516-364-2244
sales@samsontech.com
Screen Works
www.thescreenworks.com
312-243-8265
sales@thescreenworks.com
info@rareremix.com
Select Mix - Hot Tracks
www.selectmix.com
800-959-1321
scott@selectmix.com
Shure
www.shure.com
847-600-2000
info@shure.com
SKB Cases
www.skbcases.com
714-637-1252
questions@skbcases.com
SLAPPA
www.slappa.com
888-575-2772
sales@slappa.com
SnowMasters
www.snowmasters.com
800-745-8599
info@snowmasters.com
Softjock
www.softjock.com
845-568-5833
Sonic Speakers
www.sonicspeaker.com
414-483-5091
sonicspkr@aol.com
Sound Choice
www.soundchoice.com
704-583-1616
service@soundchoice.com
Stanton DJ
www.stantondj.com
954-689-8833
jmoore@stantondj.com
Symphonex By ERG Music
www.symphonex.com
800-706-9746
info@symphonex.com
TAPCO
www.tapcoworld.com
877-827-2669
sales@tapcoworld.com
Tascam DJ
www.tascamdj.com
323-727-7617
custser@teac.com
Technics (Panasonic)
www.technicsusa.com
800-211-7262
consumerproducts@panasonic.com
TEI Lighting
www.teilighting.com
305-887-5197
sales@teilighting.com
Telex
www.telex.com
877-863-4166
michael.doucot@us.telex.com
™ Studios
www.tmstudios.com
972-406-6800
info@tmstudios.com
™ Studios is the leading provider of weekly music services for DJs and radio stations, with PrimeCuts being the key compilations for mobile DJs everywhere. TriceraSoft
www.tricerasoft.com
905-846-8460
support@tricerasoft.com
UDG (Ultimate DJ Gear)
www.udgusa.com
516-270-2706
info@americanmusicandsound.com
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COMPANY
Website / DESCRIPTION
phone
Ultimate Support
www.ultimatesupport.com
970-776-1920
music.customersupport@ultimatesupport.com
Ultimix
www.ultimix.com
336-288-7100
contact@ultimix.com
Vestax
www.vestax.com
800-994-4984
info@americanmusicandsound.com
VJ World
www.globalcreativegroup.com
800-884-4553
boomer@gcgmusic.com
VocoPro
www.vocopro.com
800-678-5348
info@vocopro.com
MANUFACTURERS
MANUFACTURERS & SERVICE PROVIDERS
VocoPro’s extensive product line has something for everyone from professional KJs and DJs to singers, karaoke enthusiasts and even venue owners. Whether you’re putting on professional club shows or just looking for sing-along fun in the living room, VocoPro has it: All-In-One Karaoke Systems; Live Recording systems; Multi-format DVD Karaoke Players; Power Amplifiers; DJ/KJ Mixers; Hard Drive Karaoke/Media Players; Wireless Microphone Systems; Karaoke LCD Monitors; Powered Speakers; Subwoofers; Digital Key Controllers; Digital Signal Processors; and much more... Wells Cargo Inc
www.wellscargo.com
574-264-9661
info@wellscargo.com
X-Mix
www.xmix.com
978-649-2525
info@xmix.com
Yamaha
www.yamaha.com
714-522-9011
whrabak@yamaha.com
Yorkville Sound
www.yorkville.com
716-297-2920
usa@yorkville.com
COMPANY
Website / DESCRIPTION
phone
A Karaoke Store
www.angelskaraoke.com
727-815-3313
charlie@angelskaraoke.com
A Source DJ Music Supply
www.thesourceformusic.com
800-775-3472
thesourcedj@earthlink.net
All Bulbs & Expendables
www.allbulbs.com
800-491-1505
sales@allbulbs.com
American Audio Center
www.americanaudiocenter.com
American DJ Association
www.adja.org
DEALERS DEALERS
mail@americanaudiocenter.com 888-723-5776
office@adja.org
The ADJA is an association of professional mobile entertainers. The mission of the American Disc Jockey Association is to encourage success for its members through continuous education, camaraderie, and networking. We believe that through involvement in this professional organization, DJ’s achieve more as a group than they can individually. Anderson Music
anderson-music.com
313-278-0100
bob@anderson-music.com
Breakthrough Marketing
www.breakthroughbrochures.com
800-810-4152
info@bmi-info.com
California Sound & Lighting
www.calsound.com
619-358-9788
info@calsound.com
Cheapdjlights.com
www.cheapdjlights.com
540-436-8289
customercare@cheapdjlights.com
Cheaplights.com
www.cheaplights.com
800 880-0883
sales@cheaplights.com
DJ Canada
www.segueproductions.net/store/
519-240-7366
sales@segueproductions.net
DJ Intelligence
www.djintelligence.com
312-635-8900
DJ Intelligence offers a unique set of website tools for DJs and disc jockeys. Whether you have a professional webmaster designing your site, or you do it yourself at home, these invaluable interactive tools will enhance and advance your website.
DJ Power
www.djpower.com
719-527-6937
djpower@djpower.com
DJPower Int. LLC, THE ORIGINATOR OF MP3 MIXING, has a complete line of products specifically designed for DJs, Radio Stations, Karaoke, Nightclubs and anyone else wanting professional digital sound, video and lighting. All products were created with the valuable input of our customers from around the world. We now have video mixing, lighting control, scheduling, graphics, banners and more!
DJ Pro Audio, Inc.
www.djproaudio.com
8666681596
jason@djproaudio.com
DJ Webmin
www.djwebmin.com
800-257-7635
barry@djwebmin.com
DJ Webmin is a friendly web-based program with an easy to use interface, navigation menu and employee controlling—a must for any size event booking company who needs to administrate their business! You will love how easy this is!
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DEALERS
DEALERS COMPANY
Website / DESCRIPTION
phone
DJ World
www.djworld.com
203-230-2449
feedback@djworld.com
DJS Pro Audio & Lighting
www.djsupply.com
888-357-8775
sales@djsprosales.com
Online catalog at www.djspal.com for Pro Stage, Lighting and Sound equipment. For over 20 years, DJS Pro Audio and Lighting (aka DJ Supply) has offered quality lighting and equipment from all major brands with qualified customer service at the best prices. Shop for software, turntables, mixers, cd players, video products, speakers, amplifiers, karaoke products, lighting, the newest LEDs, accessories and more. Sales, Service, Rentals, Commercial Sales and Installation. Your ideal source for your equipment needs. DJTronix.Com
www.djtronix.com
DSElectronics.com
www.dselectronics.com
Effectlighting.com
www.effectlighting.com
813-818-7000
sales@effectlighting.com
Electronic Bargains - EBDJ
www.ebdj.com
800-336-1185
sales@ebdj.com
Enlighten Designs
www.lednametags.com
440-967-0310
sales@lednametags.com
Entertainment Systems Corporation
www.entsyscorp.com
800-582-2421
rob@entsyscorp.com
Event Lighting Solutions
www.eventlightingsolutions.com
321 279-7584
eventlighting@cfl.rr.com
sales@djtronix.com sales@dselectronics.com
Farralane Lighting & Audio Inc.
www.farralane.com
631-752-9824
sales@farralane.com
Frequency Music
www.freqmusic.com
239-498-9080
jimd@freqmusic.com
Global Mobile Entertainers Association
www.globalmobile.org
1-877-DJ-ASSOC
art@globalmobile.org
Glow The World
www.glowtheworld.com
847.401.8778
sales@glowtheworld.com
Glowspek Industries Inc.
www.glowspek.com
877-794-6387
sales@glowspek.com
Guitar Center Inc
www.guitarcenter.com
818-735-8800
HollywoodDJ.com
www.hollywooddj.com
877-888-3055
allan@hollywooddj.com
IDJNow.Com
www.idjnow.com
800-355-7746
evanm@idjnow.com
Be a DJ now with DJ equipment from I DJ NOW. We have been helping DJs, nightclubs and others select the right DJ equipment for over 16 years. We’re your source for discount DJ equipment, pro audio, entertainment lighting, speakers and video systems. As an authorized dealer we carry top name brands like Denon DJ, American DJ, Pioneer Pro DJ, Gemini DJ, Chauvet Lighting, Apple and many others. We offer Free Shipping on most of the DJ equipment you want. Our low price guarantee offers you the best pricing, even after the sale! Ifidj.Com
www.ifidj.com
International DJ & Lighting
www.idjl.com
J&E Pro Audio Supply
www.jeproaudio.com
619-690-3054
sales@jeproaudio.com
Karaoke Warehouse
www.karaoke-warehouse.com
800-645-8401
jdailey@karaoke-warehouse.com
Leman’s Music
www.lesmens.com
505-268-2111
mark@lesmens.com
718-359-4848
mainlineny@aol.com
Mainline Lighting and Sound Manor Music
718-321-9335
sales@ouocorp.com intldjandlighting@yahoo.com
650-355-5769
manormusic@pacbell.net
Mobile Beat: The Mobile Entertainers Magazine
www.mobilebeat.com
800-257-7635
sales@mobilebeat.com
Music Makers
www.musicmakers.com
800-547-7924
bestdeal@musicmakers.com
610-863-8424
musicscene@epix.net
888-621-3535
info@musictrends.com
Music Scene www.musictrends.com
Music Trends
Music Trends, established 1980, has been serving DJs for more than 25 years. Located at 2947 Hempstead Tpke., Levittown NY 11756, the store is open Monday through Saturday. All major brands: Denon, Pioneer, Elation, Chauvet, American DJ, JBL, QSC, Numark, Gemini, etc. Try before you buy. Separate Lighting Showroom. MYDJService.Com Web Hosting
www.mydjservice.com
800-257-7635
sales@prodj.com
Every Step of the Way - From hosting your Website to supporting your business objectives—with our industry leading interactive services, ProDJ.com is the specialist you need on your team.
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DEALERS
DEALERS COMPANY
Website / DESCRIPTION
phone
National Associ. of Mobile Entertainers
www.djkj.com
215-658-1193
name@djkj.com
N.A.M.E. is dedicated to those professional mobile entertainers who strive not only to improve themselves but their industry as well! The National Association of Mobile Entertainers was established for the sole purpose of meeting the needs of professional mobile entertainers. It has evolved into a multi-service association that also assists wedding and event planners and consumers from all over the United States. New FX Gear
www.newfxgear.com
706-522-5548
tim@newfxgear.com
NLFX Professional
www.northernlightfx.com
888-660-6696
sales@northernlightfx.com
We originally started in 1994 as a small sound & lighting store in Northern Minnesota. We then introduced the NorthernLightFX name and launched the web-site in 2000. With a product selection worthy of Paul Bunyan*, aggressive pricing, and top notch customer service we have now grown to being a national provider of over 70 brands of sound & lighting products to both the retail and wholesale markets. We are proud to be the supplier of many of the nation\’s top Bands, DJs, Clubs, Churches, Bowling Centers, Skating Rinks, Fitness Centers, Schools, Universities, Military Bases, Photographers, and more. If you\’re already one of our valued customers, we thank you. If not, we\’d like to welcome you. OtsAV
www.otsdj.com
support@otsdj.com
Outside The Box DJ Tools
www.OutsideTheBox.biz
888-246-0614
robert@outsidethebox.biz
Party Boys DJ Store
www.partyboysdjshow.com
865-584-3092
djparty@comcast.net
Planet DJ
www.planetdj.com
877-435-4327
sales@planetdj.com
Platinum Records Lights & Sound
www.Platinum-records.com
503-222-9166
ali@platinum-records.com
Pro Sound and Stage Lighting
www.pssl.com
714-891-3990
sales@pssl.com
ProGear Warehouse
www.progearwarehouse.com
937-324-8800
sales@progearwarehouse.com
Pro-Mix
www.pro-mix.com
800-4-PRO-MIX
sales@pro-mix.com
Promo Only
www.promoonly.com
407-331-3600
sales@promoonly.com
Promo Only is THE music and music video source for DJs and music professionals. Stay ahead in our industry with our music service subscriptions that give you access to a wide range of formats, from hip-hop promotional music to Latin music videos to Country to Club Mix Videos, just to name a few. ProSound and Stage Lighting
www.pssl.com
800-945-9300
jsnyder@pssl.com
Rhode Island Novelty
www.rinovelty.com
401-274-1818
info@rinovelty.com
Shannon Sound & Lighting
www.shannonsinc.com
806 748-1777
ssleicp2@msn.com
Sherman Specialty - MakesParties
www.makesparties.com
800-645-6513
support@makesparties.com
Simply Sound & Lighting
www.simplysoundandlighting.com
216-538-0028
jgardner@simplysoundandlighting.com
Six Star DJ
www.sixstardj.com
888-678-2735
sales@sixstardj.com
We carry everything needed for Mobile DJs, Nightclubs, Churches, Contractors, Dealers, and the Entire Entertainment Industry. We carry the top name brands in Amplifiers, DJ Mixers, DJ CD Players, DJ Turntables, DJ cartridges, DJ Lighting , Microphones, DJ Systems and DJ Packages, Intelligent Lighting Systems, Lighting Packages, Novelties, DJ Cases, CD recorders, DJ Accessories, much, much more. If you do not see the item you are looking for, CALL US. Have you seen a better price™ Call us and we’ll beat it or match it for you! Sound Ideas
www.sideas.com
614-263-3720
keith@sideas.com
Sureglow - Direct Products
www.sureglow.com
800-959-4569
sales@sureglow.com
The Voice Depot
www.thevoicedepot.com
416-424-2220
chambers@mediatechgroup.com
™ Studios - Prime Cuts
www.tmstudios.com
972-406-6813
jimw@tmstudios.com
™ Studios is the leading provider of weekly music services for DJs and radio stations, with PrimeCuts being the key compilations for mobile DJs everywhere.
TopDJGear
www.TopDJGear.com
212-995-1744 x404
marc@topdjgear.com
USA Home Electronic
www.usahomeelectronic.com
317/9852796
cika_crni@yahoo.com
Washington Music Center
www.chucklevins.com
301-946-8808
randyw@chucklevins.com
WeDJ.com
www.wedj.com
309 494-9858
scott@wedj.com
Windy City Novelties
www.windycitynovelties.com/
847-403-0100
sales@windycitynovelties.com
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OR CALL 1-800-257-7635
gear guide 2008
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AdvertisErs Contact Andy Powell at 515-986-3300 x304 for Advertising information
American Audio . .................................... americanaudio.us . ................800-322-6337........................ 5 American Disc Jockey Assoc (ADJA) ........ adja.org..................................888-723-5776...................... 27 American DJ ........................................... americandj.com.....................800-322-6337................ 35, 84 B-52 (ETI)................................................ b-52pro.com..........................800-344-4384...................... 11 Bag End Loudspeakers USA..................... bagend.com...........................888-459-3030...................... 45 Breakthrough Marketing......................... breakthroughbrochures.com....800-810-4152...................... 57 CHAUVET ................................................ chauvetlighting.com..............800-762-1084...................7, 39 Cheap DJ Gear (Pro Audio & Video).......... cheapdjgear.us.......................888-694-5888...................... 63 Colorado Sound N’ Light.......................... csnl.com.................................888-429-0418...................... 57 Denon DJ ................................................ denondj.com .........................630-741-0330...................... 15 DigiGames . ............................................ triviaproducer.com ................888-874-8427...................... 37 Divine Lighting . ..................................... divinelighting.com ................877-406-4557...................... 63 DJ Intelligence . ...................................... djintelligence.com . ............................................................ 38 DJ Power International, LLC .................... djpower.com..........................650-964-5339...................... 13 DJsLastMinute.com................................. djslastminute.com.............................................................. 53 Eliminator Lighting ................................ eliminatorlightingdirect.com................................................. 29 Event Lighting Solutions......................... eventlightingsolutions.com........321-279-7584...................... 61 Frankenstand.......................................... frankenstand.com...................619-223-7587...................... 82 Gator Cases............................................. gatorcases.com.........................813-221-4191...................... 61 IDJNOW................................................... idjnow.com............................631-321-1700...................... 53 MegaSeg (Fidelity Media)....................... megaseg.com/mb............................................................... 17 NAME...................................................... nameentertainers.com...........800-434-8274...................... 45 Pioneer................................................... pioneerdj.com....................................................................... 2 Play Something We Can Dance To (Book)....... mobilebeat.com (click “Bookstore”).................................... 61 Pro DJ Publishing.................................... prodjpublishing.com..............800-257-7635 x0.......53, 80, 81 Promo Only............................................. promoonly.com......................407-331-3600...................... 83 QSC . ....................................................... qscaudio.com........................................................................ 3 Spyn Audio.............................................. spynaudio.com.......................800-649-6093...................... 19 TM Studios (formerly JonesTM)............... tmstudios.com.......................972-406-6800...................... 58 Vestax..................................................... vestax.com / vestaxpro.com................................................ 21 VocoPro................................................... vocopro.com...........................800-678-5348...................... 59 Yamaha................................................... yamaha.com/proaudio...........714-522-9000........................ 9 mobilebeat.com
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extraordinarygear
Not Your Typical DJ Vehicle Weird DJ car rocks the road in Holland
T
hink you have a rad mobile DJ road machine™ Check out this fantastic creation from a mobile DJ in the Netherlands. Olaf Mooij of Rotterdam spent six months building his artistic conception of the ultimate DJ car, which he calls “The DJ Mobile.” His inspiration was appropriately magnificent: Olaf says, “The idea for the DJ Mobile is inspired by the song “God is a DJ” from Faithless…and the car of our Holy Pope.” Although the “Pope Mobile” is well known as a defensive vehicle, Olaf’s DJ Mobile is equipped to bring a heavy sonic attack upon outdoor gigs. “The DJ Mobile is a functional artwork with a PA system built in,” explains Olaf. “It can be used for a lot of different events.” The car is a Ford Sierra (a discontinued model, primarily built for the European market) loaded up with a 2000-watt sound system based on speakers from Beyma, a European manufacturer of PA and automotive sound systems. “Normally, when I transport the car to a party I have covered the speakers with caps,”
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gear guide 2008
reports Olaf, “but the people know that there are speakers under these caps.” With such an otherworldly, rocket-like appearance, driving up in The DJ Mobile leads to many comments and questions. Olaf often has to reassure onlookers that the vehicle is, in fact, street legal. “After building the car I needed new papers, because in the Netherlands we have a yearly check of cars by law, and during this check they said I needed them. After a special check from the RDW (the Dutch highway safety organization) I got new papers; but only one chair is still in the
car because the car will be too heavy when there are two persons in it.” So, for Olaf, driving his creation around can be a lonely experience, but “is absolute fabulous if you like the attention,” according to Olaf. “Especially the guys with big car hi-fi sound systems—they tend to get pale with jealousy. “People are very enthusiastic and it is almost dangerous to drive on the highway, because people are watching the car so badly that they forget that they are driving a car too!” MB