Equipment and Software Reviews

[Stripe]

In an ongoing effort to help our members we are looking for equipment reviews to add to the site. If you would like to submit a review, please create a thread with the review and post the link in this thread.
Or simply just PM me with a link to a thread that you posted with a review.

When submitting a review please try to add the model specs & your rating of it.

example
Ratings: (1 lowest - 5 highest)
Ease of Use: 5
Sound Quality: 4
Skip Resistance: 5+
Price: 5
Overall: 5 (not an average)



- thank you

Figured a thread like this would be really helpful to alot of people until our reviews section is back online.
Please keep this thread for review links only. All other comments can be done in the linked review thread.

[Stripe]

Reviews here: http://www.djforums.com/content/reviews/accessories/

If you wish to submit a review. Please create a thread in the appropriate section and paste the link here.

[djthunder]

Please make this one a sticky.

I would like this thread to have equipment reviews and software reviews, for such that applies to the digital DJ.

1) Software, as in Serato, Virtual DJ, Traktor, Torq, Mixmeister, song "key" detectors, BPM scanners, whatever would be helpful for the Digital DJ. I'm sure I missed mentioning a load of software.

2) Hardware, as in USB mixers, midi controllers, HID/USB controllers, sound cards and other types of interfaces.

Please, only those that own and use, or are currently testing software/hardware post reviews. Reviews should be as objective as possible. For example, I use VirtualDJ, but I have nothing but love for Serato, Torq, Traktor and so forth. If I was to do a review of Virtual DJ, I would list the features I like, perhaps some comparisons to some other software, and perhaps reasons why for me & my style, I prefer it. I would not say something like, "Virtual DJ rocks and all the other software is just crap, and shouldn't be used by anyone, because it just sucks... blah, blah, blah". That is not what I want here, we want objective reviews. If you want to do a "this software sucks" post, you can make a thread on that subject separate.

Addiitionally, stability comments might come up. Keep in mind, that pretty much all software that is selling thousands to millions of copies, and has been in business for a long time, can be stable. If this wasn't the case, then these companies would be out of business, or would have been reduced to a garage business by now. Let's please agree on two statements. 1) Software that runs on proprietary hardware (Serato, torq as some examples) are going to run more easily without a hitch that software that does not have proprietary hardware. Non-proprietary software will have more stability issues, usually related to the thousands to millions of combinations of hardware that are possible, that the software programmer is trying to support. Some software manages to support more hardware combinations than others, but all can be run stable, if we are talking about software that's been around a while.

Hardware. For hardware reviews, just keep in mind that you can not expect a $200 midi controller to preform like a $600 midi controller. You get what you pay for. A $200 controller might be a bargain at that price, and may perform better than what you would expect for $200, that doesn't mean that those that own a $600 or more controller should brow beat them, telling them how it's crap compared to their $600-$1,000 controller, or combination of controllers, (like a USB mixer and a DAC3 or DMC2). Review based upon price verses value, and comparisons based on other controllers in the same price range.... and sure, say something like, "if you can afford this $500 or $600 controller, that would be better." Same thing with sound cards and other hardware.

Okay, have at it!

[djthunder]

This review is also in the equipment review section of the Amps/Speakers area. A mod is welcome to delete it from there if they wish, as I posted it there before this area was open.

Numark Total Control, Midi Controller

I still have not had anywhere near the amount of timeI would like to work with the new controller, but I thought I would give you my review so far.

First, I should let you know my skill level, as it is likely not at the level of some of you. I grew up in an area where fade in/fade out was pretty much the standard. You can even now find some club DJ's that just fade in/fade out all night. Sad, I know. I have previously done some beatmatching through the years, and sadly, people are amazed, and wanting to know where I bought that mix from...LOL. That really is how sad it's been. Over the last 7-8 years, it the skill level of the average DJ in this area has been going up, and I've been trying to push my skill level ahead of the
majority, for my own pride as well as a better edge, so I beatmatch about 70%-80% of what I play, when playing to a high school/college age crowd, and the rest, I cut, or try to find another transition other than just fade in/fade out.

I have no scratching skills, but I am hoping to learn some simple scratching, and find a way to apply that, and use it to create some more variety in transitions.

I do not plan to ever be a master at scratching, and certainly not on those little jog wheels...LOL. I suppose if I start getting into scratching more, I'll need to up my gear to atleast some time coded CD's and some table tops. But for now, I'm going to make the most use with this Numark Total Control.

I give you this skill level description because I think it is important for you to know where the "review" is coming from.

My lappy that is hooked up to, is a HP ZE4430US, with a AMD Athlon 2400+, 1 Gig of RAM, 100 Gig hard drive, and as you already know, an Audigy 2 PCMCIA card.

Okay, build quality. I would have liked a metal casing, but I knew it was going to be plastic before I made the purchase. I can't imagine it would have cost that much more just to wrap it in a metal housing, and I would have paid the extra, but I think they were thinking light weight and portable, not realizing that us DJ's really only want "light weight" when it comes to amp racks and subwoofers...LOL. I would have
enjoyed the extra pound or so.

That aside, it seams sturdy enough, but I wouldn't want to drop it 4 feet. Not that I would want to drop any gear 4 feet, but I had an old amplifier fall off a 6 foot shelf once, and it kept on working fine, whereas if this thing fell off a 6 foot shelf, if it
did still worked at all, it would be undoubtedly getting the super glue and/or duck tape treatment.

The knobs are all plastic, but they've got a tiny bit of texture to them I think. I almost thought the black knobs where rubber at first feel, but they are plastic, but sturdy enough. I was really impressed with the jog wheels, more so than I was expecting. They are very smooth, really well balanced, best quality item on the unit, I think.
I've never had a MKII to fiddle with, so I can not make a direct comparison.

The center knob I found to be really quite good for searching through music categories. I really expected that I would not bother using this feature at all, and
just using the mouse, but I find it surprisingly user friendly. While I will still need the keyboard and mouse for certain things, like doing searches for a specific artist/song, I will use this knob in combination with the two load buttons for most of my music grabbing I think. Just be aware that you need those two load buttons not just for loading songs into the decks, but also for navigating in conjunction with the center knob. I'd explain, but it's fairly easy to figure out after a bit of fiddling, and should be in the manual. Crap, I haven't even read the manual...LOL... guess I should do that.

The faders are not as good as I would like, not featherlight to move, not a great feel. Probably what you would expect from a Numark mixer. They are okay, but nothing to write home about. For whatever reason, I was expecting a little better, so I was slightly disappointed, but it is not really a deal breaker, particularly considering the
competition in the price range.

However, the jog/scratch wheels are definitely nice sturdy rubber wheels. They are sturdy and aligned well, but also easy to spin, so you can do a good backspin with them. They are NOT touch sensitive, but they are very, very sensitive to any motion of the wheel, so it is probably about as good as you are going to get without a real touch sensitive wheel in a more expensive unit. The wheels are not aligned with the vinyl record on the screen, or in otherwords, if you turn the jog wheel back a quarter turn, that doesn't translate into a perfect quarter turn back on the vinyl record on the screen. The wheels do seem to be very consistant though, so it's just a matter of
getting a feel for how much you need to turn the wheel to get the vinyl record on the screen to turn a certain amount... that is, if you are paying attention to the vinyl record on the screen.

Note: Something I noticed with the pitch/tempo sliders, is they appear to not be automatically on, and sometime you've got to move them for a bit to get them to come to life. Once they have come to life, it seems that stay "awake". Slightly annoying, but not a huge problem. Just remember when you start it up, jiggle both tempo/pitch knobs for a second until their little light lights up, and the software reacts. Then you are good to go in my experience. Pitch/tempo sliders are not as exacting as I would like, but this may be a midi limitation. I don't often use them anyway, unless I am manually resetting it. I go through and edit my files for BPM count and alignment, for those that Cue (virtualdj) does not get right, which are quite a few. Hence, then I just pick music to mix that is approprietely close in BPM and style, and use the sync button to match BPM, then use the job if adjustment is still needed.

Layout. I thought this would be a good place for this, as the jog wheel proximity to the fader on the MKII unit has been a big problem for a lot of people. With the Numark Total Control, you can very easily get to any control you want, without accidentally hitting the jog wheel, if you use any amount of caution that you would with a normal mixer. There is plenty of space between the job/scratch wheels and the fader, as well as between any other control on the board. Nothing seems particularly cramped at all, even given the number of controls there are on the board. The layout of the board was in summary, as good as I had hoped.

Okay, latency. Something everyone seems to have noticed, is that there seems to be a very slight delay between what happens on the controller, and what happens on the screen. It is slight enough, that you really have to watch for it, and move your fader fast back and forth to see it, atleast for me. At first, it was thought that the slight visual delay was a delay between the controller and the function. However, with further investigation, there seems to be a concensis that the delay is in the screen image, not the function. Now of course, there is some real world delay, there has to be, but it is too slight for me to detect it. Since this controller is just a midi controller, not requiring much bandwidth, it presents just about no detectable load on the software or laptop as a whole... no more so than a keyboard, it would seem. It runs great on my mere USB 1.1 slot, so if you have USB 2.0, like the rest of the world besides me, your USB hub won't even feel it. Therefore, latency is going to primarily dependent on
the limits of the midi interface, and the latency of your sound card. The more expensive HID devices are going to be faster, and of course the real thing is
faster, but this is a good performing controller for it's price.

Summary, there are better controllers out there, but they are the pricier models. For the money, I think this is the best controller in it's price range, comparing
to the BCD2000/3000 or Hercules MKII.

Anyway, that's the essay/review I have for ya...LOL.

[Damon_Chambers]

we will stick it for a bit and see how it goes.

[GeekDj]

I'm looking to buy a bcd 3000 from behringer and i would love if someone who has one or has used it(spelling??) could post a review or a comment about the gear.
thanks"!

[slinkyboy]

I'm looking to buy a bcd 3000 from behringer and i would love if someone who has one or has used it(spelling??) could post a review or a comment about the gear.
thanks"!

been using the BCD2000. works ok for me. have not had any problems so far..
you can check out this review. http://www.skratchworx.com/reviews/bcd2000.php I hioe this helps..

[DJ Hoser615]

Virtual DJ review:

This program is great compared to other computer software that I've tried. There are some bugs however. There have been times when the program will stop responding and I've had to open up winamp and play a random song just to keep the crowd going. I must admit, this is VERY frustating. I just purchased another computer with windows xp. I have not had this type of problem occur as of yet with this version of windows. Maybe there is something in windows vista which causes the software to malfunction--? Anyway, I am just writing the experiences that I've had using this software.

The other issue is that the gain levels are not matched. There is a feature that you can enable in the software where the gain control is matched when mixing another song however, there are some songs that are VERY different in gain levels causing the incoming song to be either too low or too high compared to the song which is currently being played. The volume levels have to be constantly adjusted in the mixer to blend the mix.

A lot of my music comes from ripped CD's and the rest is purchased downloaded music. Does anyone else have any questions or issues with this software?

[Trancelovingguy]

OTS DJ/ OTS AUDIO Review,

Been using this program for a few months on a my computer/dj console and I'll say one thing, AWESOME!!! Its very user friendly, categorizing the songs is simplistic. Easy to build a play list and save for later.

Another feature I like about the software is aside from the independant 10band eq, compressor, clip limiter, and processor. It doesn't use alot of resources to run the program. It also features independant visualization for each deck that can be transmitted via video output.

Theres only one major thing I do not like about it and thats the compatibilty with soundcards. I have an Audigy 4 Pro sound card in it and it has problems using independant channels for cueing and live outputs due to the ASIO drivers are not supported for Audigy Cards. They do have recommended cards to buy, but why? You would think something like Soundblaster cards would be supported. I don't know, maybe its the fact that this is an Australian based software and Creative hasn't made it there yet? O well thats my review.


www.otsaudio.com

[tadam63136]

DM2/Digital Music Mixer

I've been using this midi controller prolly for about 2 weeks now,and i gotta say that its a pretty nice piece of hardware if you're into scratching and a rookie that wants to get the feel of djing and scratching before moving into the turntables or cd players or just looking for a cheap solution for your setup.

Dm2 Features
2 Big Jogwheels with 8 buttons within the jog wheel for placing dj samples or effects,1 Button in the middle for playback or however you may wanna use it,A-B for switching decks,crossfader mixer,3 buttons on top for like effect usage,4 buttons on the bottem left corner for like maying cue points(thats what i use for both decks like 1-2 for cue sign and playback and 3-4 for deck b,Joystick for originally warping but can also be used for choosing music so you wont haf to touch the mouse or keyboard.Play,Stop,Record buttons for playback or other ways you can use em.

Price Range $29-49 depending on what store you get it from,you can find them mostly online target website where i got mine.

How do it connect?It connects trough usb,It comes with the drivers to work with its native mixman program,but you can download midi drivers to make it work with other programs.

What programs go good with it?It can go with any program that uses midi feedback,so virtual dj,traktor dj,or even fl studio meaning that it could be use like a beatmachine or something like that.

What do it look like?http://img65.imageshack.us/img65/7974/imagesbh3.jpg

Anything else that i should know?Well all i can say is pick it up if you looking for a good cheap solution if you dont wanna do the hercules dj console

Overall Rating
Look:10-The look of it for being black and silver is pretty cool,the buttons are well placed.

Control:9-If you have 2.0 usb and a good processor then you should'nt have a problem with it,Just set it up of how you want it to go to your measurements and play.

Durability:8-Even tho this is well put together and may even seem like a toy to some,it can still break if dropped or possibly damaged.

Well thats about it,if you think its for you then get it for yoursetup,you may be very pleased even if it aint a full time investment.Perfect for the home dj,or the type who wants to make lil mixes.

[rec]

Thought I would pass on what I have learned over the past year with a couple of the popular DJ products on the market.

First off I bought a Hercules MK2 that I have been pretty much frustrated with since day one. I even bought the Pro version of VDJ and the software is excellent. I have not been able to do much with the MK2 due to a hissing problem and being generally unstable. Note that I purchase a brand new HP laptop at the same time that I bought the MK2. So I had the latest and greatest so to speak generation laptop at the time. I had also purchased the VDJ time code vinyl as well. Extremely bad latency using the MK2 so as you can guess I have been very disappointed with the MK2.

I wanted to get a different sound card and this is where my dilemma arose. Having already invested the money in VDJ I did not want to buy another software package, however I was worried about whatever I bought not working with VDJ. I finally decided to buy Traktor Scratch with the DJ8 sound card. I figured that if VDJ did not work with the DJ8 I would have a brand new software solution that came with the DJ8. Here is what I did to install the DJ8.

-uninstalled all MK2 drivers
-disabled my onboard sound card
-downloaded the DJ8 windows drivers (http://www.native-instruments.com/index.php?id=freeupdates)
-double clicked the self executing drivers from NI, the install ran flawlessly
-the install prompted me to connect the DJ8 and I did, install finshed fine
-launched VDJ(internal mixer mode to keep things simple)and went to the config screen
-selected outputs 5/6 for my speakers and 7/8 for my headphones
WALA! It works perfectly!!!! no hiss, no muss or fuss.....happy camper so far

-closed VDJ
-went to windows ctrl panel and then sound properties
-DJ8 alreay the default sound card--great
-picked outputs 5/6 and closed
-fired up windows media player and it plays flawlessly thru the DJ8
-again I am a happy camper

So at this point all I can say is that you get what you pay for, The DJ8 is an incredible piece of equipment so far. Hooking up my turntables and time code comes next.

I would highly recommed the DJ8 to anyone, as I was up and running in under 1/2 hr and rock solid so far.
I will post my findings withe turntables and VDJ time codes next. Once that is working I will fire up the Traktor scratch program and give it a whirl. VDJ is also top notch and would also recommend this software package as well.
:slayer:

[deanmaessen]

In short (In my opinion):

Ratings: (1 lowest - 5 highest)
Ease of Use: 5 (Torq is very user friendly)
Sound Quality: 5 (Great sound quality! Much better than other DDJ units i've used)
Skip Resistance: Not Applicable (Being all digital - It does not skip)
Price: 4 (I don't mind paying extra for M-Audio)
Overall: 4.5 (Not an average)

Here is my review! (http://www.djforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=122098)

[Shish]

Torq/Connectiv Review
Whatup people, here I’m giving a totally un-biased (or at least I try to be) and truthful review of the M-audio Torq and Connectiv system. I have had enough experience with this product to know what I’m talking about.
http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee170/ThePublicityStunt/2.jpg

What’s The Deal?
Torq is a project from M-audio, and its introduction to DJ world. Since the whole digital dj thing is blowing up, M-audio decided to join. The Connectiv/Torq package is an audio interface(via USB, NO FIREWIRE) with the ability for external control from turntables and CDJ. The inputs and outputs are RCA includes a ¼ inch microphone jack and ¼ headphone jack but if your using external control, your going to have to plug your headphones into your mixer. The unit itself has toggle switches, dials for switching to digital and line, cue, phones and mic dials, pretty standard stuff. The unit revolves around M-audio’s software Torq. The software itself can be implemented as a VST, which is dope if you wanna use it with something like Ableton and arrange some tracks.

http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee170/ThePublicityStunt/DSC_0546.jpg
The Connectiv Unit


Un-boxing
So right from the get go, you can tell this is a product directed to the low budget market. For example, no RCA cables. Also, and what really disappointed me was, no printed manual. M-audio expects you to page out 90 pages on your own. As for the unit, could have been better. It is made from plastic and you cant help but notice that it feels kinda cheap, almost like a toy really. How ever, keep in mind subtractions like these DO lower the price of production, and therefore the price of the unit.

http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee170/ThePublicityStunt/3.jpg
The "manual"

Software and Instillation Overview
Okay, no here comes the better stuff. The Torq interface WILL take some getting used to especially if you’ve worked with production software. The buttons are big, and bright, but the idea was obviously gigging, I’ve taken it out to a few gigs and its worth it. A couple cool things in the software are things like built in effects (okay never mind, their crap), this loop triggering(cool for scratchers) etc. But for most of us, I think the interesting thing is the whole VST capability. So all your effects are good to go here. For the noobs(or drunk ones) there’s some auto BPM( but only in internal mode) umm...what else...some looping functions, but they are hard to grasp at first. There is a recording function, but for most of us it won’t matter because it only works in internal mode, eg: no CDJ or Vinyl. What I really like, comparing to SSL in this case is the audio wave forms, they can be full screened, good for gigging and make mixing a whole lot easier. You can also set cue points, helpful for lengthy mixing....anyways moving on.


External Mode
Truth be told, I’m mainly a turntablist so knowing how this would react to some hardcore scratching was something that was of high importance to me personally. The response is relatively good, acts pretty quickly. I tried some Crabs, Chirps and just bashing at the vinyl it self without any technique and it stayed on point.
However, something was odd. If i would play a set for a while, it would occasionally skip. I think I’m gonna blame this on the USB 1.1, which is not the most optimized of USBs. And then really, after about a month or so the vinyl REALLY started skipping often. I checked on forums, called for support went to the local store and there was no real explanation. I have heard of some units being a little defective, I may just have one of them.
http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee170/ThePublicityStunt/4.jpg
The Torq Vinyl and Control CDs

Reliability- where the Torq failed
For me personally, reliability is something that is very, very important. The last thing you want during a set is your software dropping out on you. Like i mentioned before the vinyl tends to skip at least once a set for me. And another thing I’ve noticed, ESPECIALLY, on my iMac, the vinyl won’t respond the first time you start it. Multiple times I had to restart the software because the vinyl wouldn’t respond, sometimes more then once. I honestly don’t know what to blame here, the software, the unit, the USB or just maybe a defective product out of many. However, when I buy something, I expect the unit to be the same as another unit of the same product. This seems not to be the case. A friend of mine, has the Torq software. I ran my computer with his Connectiv. Used my vinyl and my TTs and everything, it seems to be I have a defective unit. Everything responded the same, only thing different was the Connectiv unit itself. From other perspectives Torq kicks ass, some not so much. So depending on every unit to be perfect is something you may be worried about.

Interface and Features-In depth
I mentioned the software features before but I’ll go in depth.
The auto BPM and cue points¬- The software allows you to set 6 cue points. You can all trigger these via midi, a feature which I’ll talk about soon. The auto BPM, is basically a feature that allows you to take any two tracks and beat match, where Torq will do all the work. Obviously not something any real DJ would use but still, just in case.
The loop feature, and audio loop triggers: A pretty good feature with Torq is a feature that will allow you to put in 16 audio files that you can trigger anytime and it will play over both files. You can obviously control the volume and how you want it to trigger. If wanted it will even trigger on beat. The looping, well its pretty basic. You can set points manually or use the 1 bar, 2 bar, 4 bar and 8 bar loop presets.
The Database- The database is basically the browser for Torq. Each file you use gets added to the database. It will display the time signature, title, album, genre, BPM, rating and any comments you want to put. This is a breeze during sets and lets you concentrate more on mixing then finding the perfect tune.
http://www.m-audio.com/images/global/media_hqpics/Torq_Scrn-w_Sampler.jpg
Torq interface, credit:M-audio

Summary

In conclusion, the Torq is not a bad option for beginners and maybe some pros as well getting into digital djing. Truth be told, after using SSL, I regret buying Torq. Also realize this is an un-bias review and based totally on my experiences with the product. Torq packs a good bang for buck, which seems to be the main attraction. Features are good, software’s decent. The product is a budget item, and I can’t seem to stress that. Its like comparing a good pair of Numark TTs to Techinics, they’ll get the job done, but there is just something about the Techinics (in this case, Serato).

http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee170/ThePublicityStunt/5.jpg
Connectiv sits snuggly behind your mixer

Pros-
Cheap compared to other options
Responsive Time Code
Large audio waveforms and buttons
VST
Cons-
Poor documentation
Cheap feel
Poor reliability
No firewire
USB 1.1, not 2.0

Bang for buck: 4/5
Features: 3.5/5
Build quality: 2/5
Reliablity: 2/5
Sound Quality: 4/5
Overall: 3.5/5

Specs, Requirments
Conectiv hardware features:

* 4 x 4 USB 1.1 audio interface with 16-bit/48kHz fidelity
* 4 RCA inputs configurable for line-level or phono signals
* 4 RCA line outputs with +10dBV peak output level
* 2 mix knobs for blending between the audio input and computer output
* ¼” TRS headphone output with volume control
* crossfadable cue source with headphone split function
* ¼” TS microphone input (dynamic mics only)
* USB bus-powered
* Core Audio and ASIO compatible
* Pro Tools M-Powered compatible (version 7.3 or later)


Conectiv Requirements (PC)
Windows XP (SP2)**
Pentium III 500MHz
256MB RAM
Available USB port
Torq*
OS: Windows XP (SP2)**, CPU: Pentium III 933MHz, RAM: 256MB
OS: Windows Vista (32-bit), CPU: Pentium 4, 2.0 GHz or greater, RAM: 1GB, Hard Drive: 7200RPM Windows Experience Index: 3.0 or greater
USB: One available port (for use by approved SynchroScience hardware device)
Recommended system requirements
Windows XP (SP2)**: Pentium 4 2.0GHz (or greater), RAM: 1GB, Hard Drive: 7200RPM or faster
Windows Vista (32-bit): Pentium 4 2.6GHz (or greater), RAM: 2GB, Dedicated audio hard disk 7200RPM or faster, Windows Experience Index: 4.0 or greater



Conectiv Requirements (MAC)
OS X 10.3.9
G3 500 MHz
256MB RAM
Available USB port
Torq*
Mac OS X 10.4.6
CPU: G4** 1.25GHz
RAM: 512MB
USB: One available port (for use by approved SynchroScience hardware device)
Recommended system requirements
Mac/Intel Core Duo 1.83GHz (or greater), Mac Dual G5 2GHz (or greater)
1GB RAM, 7200RPM Hard Drive

[djryanrazz]

I have tried Numark, M-Audio, Rane, Virtual DJ, and Stanton in the past. I liked the Virtual DJ the best (the newest version). However, I have recently been using PCDJ. First the PCDJ FX (about 1 year ago). Now the PCDJ VJ. This software, by far, beats all of the others out. More features. Easier to use. And most importantly, NO crashes, NO hick-ups, NO mess-ups. The VJ uses much less memory than the others. The only other software that I have tried and never had a problem with was Serato...but that doesn't have many features.

The PCDJ VJ has VJ (which I do not use), Karaoke, and regular DJ. I got mine here: http://www.kpodj.com/ (http://www.kpodj.com/). I actually got the DAC-3 w/ VJ here: http://kpodj.com/item100527...but I think the have the regular VJ by itself listed here: http://kpodj.com/laptop.html. Their prices are the best. Do yourself a favor and ask them for the VIP login and password! There is a HUGE discount on most of the products. I mean, over $200 off. All you have to do is ask them for the username and password.

Anyway, the DAC-3 is awesome...I just kind of wish I got the Denon now. I had to buy a soundcard with the DAC-3. It probably would have came out cheaper to just get the Denon DNHC4500 with the VJ. Has anyone tried this product? KpoDJ has it listed here: http://kpodj.com/item100398

Let me know. The Denon looks really cool. Thank you.

[Trial]

http://www.djforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=142187

[Stripe]

MixVibes DVS Pack 1st impression http://www.djforums.com/content/2008/10/26/mixvibes-dvs-pack-mk2-first-impression/

[NTO]

M-Audio Axiom 49 review http://www.djforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=171812

[Stripe]

bump for more reviews.. if you write one.. pls link it here :tup:

[Alekz014]

http://www.djforums.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1977575#post1977575

[Magichorsie]

A little writeup of xwax.. not sure it's comprehensive enough to be a "review" per se, but still :)

http://www.djforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=188875

[Stripe]

posted my Mixvibes Cross 1st impression http://www.djforums.com/content/2009/05/03/mixvibes-cross-review/

[Rowlet]

Great info. here...

Im doing my research and im a strong believer in "you get what you pay for", Serato is looking to be in the lead, Im not going to worry about the price, im sure the product will speak for its self.

[DJ Watty]

My review of Swift Elite 4 LITE DJ/KJ/VJ Software
EDIT ADDED SOFTWARE SPECS
New: Error Correction Algorithms (when your CD+G Discs require that extra attention)
New: Denon DN-HC4500 MIDI Controller Native Support
New: 8/28/09 Search engine updated and works much easier.
Lowest CPU Usage and Highest Performance Level of all comparable products on the market
Singer History
Remote Request Tool (Request songs from a remote machine)
Auto Gain Control (Maintains 0dB to 4dB)
Beautiful Video and Audio Crossfading
48 Unique Video Transitions
32 Band Equalizer
Master Pitch and Tempo
Lighting Control (DMX, Relay, and Dimmer)
Mix Audio, Video, and Karaoke
Live, Cue, Preview, or Monitor
Multi-Soundcard Support
ASIO Soundcard Support (Multi-Channel Cards)
Large Preview Monitors (You see what's playing)
Key/Tempo Settings Save in Playlist Files
Add Video or Audio Sources like Tracks
Play Direct CD+G Discs with Deinterleave
Now Using SPTI for CD-ROM support under Windows (rather than the older ASPI)
High Resolution Images Behind CDG Graphics
Change CDG Backgrounds LIVE!
Independent Picture Slideshow
Video Montage (BlueScreening/ChromaKey)
MIDI Controller Support
Numark DMC-1 and DAC-2 Controller Support
Firefly Remote Control
ATI Remote Wonder
FreeFrame Plugins Support
Customize Any Function to a KEY!
BPM Analysis of MP3, MP3+G® , and Videos
8 Cue Points Per Deck (8 Intro/1 Outro)
Visualizations
KAR files with Lyrics
Playlist Scheduler
Dynamic Lighting Utilizing S.C.R.A.M.
DMX Ready (requires SCRAMDMX Modules)
DMX Active Scenes (Multi Universe)
DMX Effects Editor
FLV Videos Now Supported
MP3+G®+MIDITM - Output MIDI along with Karaoke
Video+MIDITM - Output MIDI along with Video

Being a new DJ and not too good with computer I am very happy with the features and ease of use. I had a few problems in the begining and all of them where user errors. Open a ticket with Tricerasoft and got a very fast response, faster then any other product I've tried to get support for on the net so far. Last week I asked a question in there forum and got a phone call the next day from a developer because they didn't understand what I was asking. I was very surprised and pleased by this. Plus he said to call anytime!
Pros: 1)Hot cues, 2)Single Playlist and Duel Playlist Skins, 3)Can modify your skin to your liking if your good enough with a computer, 4)almost every aspect of how the program performs can me changes like auto fade or manual, beat matching, singer history stored, next singer or next 3 singer promted on KJ screen, Logo over laying, and much more I haven't discovered yet. 5) Tech support ROCKS!
Cons:
1)Program doesn't do "scratching"
2) 2)Song names can not be altered from song properties in the program, 8/28/09 this was fixed by Tricerasoft! Thanks development team.
3) The mapping for the HC4500 for some reason doesn't light all of my leds, I am still exploring this haven't opened a ticket yet. Maybe my error also.
Ratings: (1 lowest - 5 highest)
Ease of Use: 4 for a newb
Price: 5
Overall: 4
All in all I think this is one of the Best programs for running a Karaoke show.

[Matt Dj Elite]

I'd like to see a review on Virtual Dj 6. Also a review on Maya 44's.

[Finerz]

http://www.djforums.com/forums/showthread.php?p=2358715#post2358715

RMX review, feel free to do what you want with it :badger:

[Brice2]

sounds good to me

[FinalCoyote]

Have a review.

A&H Xone 1D
http://www.djforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=228996

[arielmonzon]

Vestax VCI-300 Review
http://www.djforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=230597

[bmorr]

here's a review I did a while back on my blog:
(keep in mind this was done before the typhoon was available, so now windows users can use the typhoon)

The Vestax Spin is basically a cheaper version of the VCI-100, with less knobs and faders. It can be seen through the quality of the materials used on the Spin, as they are inferior to those found on the VCI-100 which is built with metal. Fortunately though even though the Spin is made of plastic, it is solid and does not feel like it is going to fall apart anytime soon. The faders could be better with a bit more resistance, as they feel very light and almost too easy to push. The jog platters are built with quality. They are touch-sensitive, and have a blue illumination underneath them when playing a song, and red when being touched.http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_54zi5hXrO5A/S6fDohxcuKI/AAAAAAAAABs/_CHbNg6YNbY/s200/101_0613.JPG (http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_54zi5hXrO5A/S6fDohxcuKI/AAAAAAAAABs/_CHbNg6YNbY/s1600-h/101_0613.JPG) The controller was created with the beginner dj in mind, with a built in soundcard to allow pre-cueing right from the unit itself, without the need for a soundcard. One can easily just go to a party and connect the Vestax Spin directly into an amplifier or powered speakers, through its RCA outputs and play a set. It also comes with a microphone, but I personally don't use microphones for my sets so I couldn't really tell you if it is good or not.

The Spin comes with Algoriddim's Djay 3 (http://www.djay-software.com/) software. The software is pretty decent considering it is packaged in with the unit. It allows mixing between two songs, with a few effects. Although it is good for the http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_54zi5hXrO5A/S6fFuXfe6xI/AAAAAAAAAB0/t2T-Yj3s-g4/s200/Screen+shot+2010-03-22+at+3.31.28+PM.png (http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_54zi5hXrO5A/S6fFuXfe6xI/AAAAAAAAAB0/t2T-Yj3s-g4/s1600-h/Screen+shot+2010-03-22+at+3.31.28+PM.png)very primitive beginner, it lacks for the advanced dj out there who likes to use a large variety of effects and equalizers. The program is disappointing with setting cues, as it only allows for three cues to be set. Djay 3 also does not save the cues made on a song, and therefore requires that the cues be put in manually each time the song is being played. Mind you the software does sport a very tight integration with Itunes giving it an adavantage over other software when trying to track down that song you're thinking of playing next in your set.

All in all the Vestax Spin is a very good midi controller coming in at a price of $250 US (http://store.apple.com/us/product/TX742VC/A) or $280 CAN. It can only be purchased from the Apple store in North America. I personally use Traktor Pro (http://www.native-instruments.com/#/en/products/dj/traktor-pro/) with the Vestax Spin, thanks to a map created by Oldfashioned on djtechtools.com (http://www.djtechtools.com/forum/showthread.php?t=10372), which allows me to use all the effects and features of Traktor Pro on the Spin. As for the soundcard, it is fairly decent. Not bad for the beginner dj at all; I personally use the Audio 2 Dj soundcard (http://www.native-instruments.com/#/en/products/dj/audio-2-dj/) from Native Instruments, which just adds a little bit of umph and power to my set. I'd say this is a very cheap and feasible option for those people just starting to DJ and don't have enough money to purchase decent CDJs or Turntables.

In the box:http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_54zi5hXrO5A/S6fKL6WNuqI/AAAAAAAAAB8/KMiYh6cuB2o/s200/101_0600.JPG (http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_54zi5hXrO5A/S6fKL6WNuqI/AAAAAAAAAB8/KMiYh6cuB2o/s1600-h/101_0600.JPG)
Vestax Spin (unit)
USB cable
Manual with Djay 3 software.
Microphone.
2 x 3.14 mm to 1/4" adapters.

Pros:
Good value
Can be used on better software.
Looks good.
Jog platters are very good
Portable

Cons:
Djay 3 software leaves some to be desired.
The quality of the faders and knobs.
The lack of knobs.
Material used on the unit.

Ratings: (1 lowest - 5 highest)
Ease of Use: 5 (Djay is really plain and simple, and the buttons are all easily visible)
Sound Quality: 4 (Great sound quality! Not quite as punchy as my AUdio 2 Dj but it is far from bad)
Skip Resistance: Not Applicable (Being all digital - It does not skip)
Price: 5 (Amazing bang for the buck! at only $280 CAN probably even cheaper now)
Overall: 4 (Not an average)(it lacks sufficient buttons to do FX and other stuff)

regards, BMO

[bmorr]

here's a review of Traktor Pro/ Scratch I posted on my blog a while back:

At first the software seems rather confusing and complicated especially if you are a beginner, as I was, when you first use it. The program is laid out with a file search section towards the bottom of the screen. This section allows you to look up songs either from your Itunes library or from other folders within your computer. Towards the middle of the screen is an internal mixer with many http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_54zi5hXrO5A/S6kFuku0Y2I/AAAAAAAAACU/zpV9fr16i9o/s200/Screen+shot+2010-03-23+at+1.30.43+PM.png (http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_54zi5hXrO5A/S6kFuku0Y2I/AAAAAAAAACU/zpV9fr16i9o/s1600-h/Screen+shot+2010-03-23+at+1.30.43+PM.png)knobs and buttons. Coming from a beginner software that has very few options, if anything more than just a crossfader and equalizer, one may cringe at the thought of having to learn absolutely everything about another program all over. Fortunately as you begin to use the program, it is apparent that the design of the screen was meant to simulate the same layout as an external mixer with decks on either side. To the sides of the internal mixing section are the track waves where cues and loops can be set on a song, as well as the pitch/ speed of the track. Towards the top of the screen the FX section is found where you can set a row of http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_54zi5hXrO5A/S6kF_6rALoI/AAAAAAAAACc/9YNqTkHyu_Q/s200/Screen+shot+2010-03-23+at+1.30.57+PM.png (http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_54zi5hXrO5A/S6kF_6rALoI/AAAAAAAAACc/9YNqTkHyu_Q/s1600-h/Screen+shot+2010-03-23+at+1.30.57+PM.png)three effects with their respective dry/wet knobs directly under. This can be changed into Advanced FX mode, which allows you to change the Dry/ Wetness, Filter, Feedback, and Rate of a single effect. Although as a beginner the advanced effects mode may not have much of a use, it can definitely help you out in getting the desired sound out of a certain effect. I must mention that the software allows for four deck mixing both internally and externally, which gives a lot of flexibility with the amount of things you can do with it.

The program is an easy alternative for beginner Djs looking to get started without having to shell out thousands for a mixer and vinyl decks, or cdjs. The program is easily capable of mixing with just a laptop or desktop computer. It also boasts an impressive Music Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) mapping ability. What this means is it allows someone to map any MIDI capable device to give certain buttons or knobs specific functions to be used in Traktor. I personally use the MIDI capabilities with my Vestax Spin, but there are also some CDJs like the Pioneer CDJ-900 (http://www.pioneerdj.com/gear.aspx?product=CDJ-900&cp=1) or CDJ -2000 (http://www.pioneerdj.com/gear.aspx?product=CDJ-2000&cp=1) who have MIDI capabilities as well as some external mixers. While it may seem as though the software is catered to the MIDI crowd, it is actually intended to directly compete with Serato Scratch Live software, which was one of the first programs that allowed vinyl turntables or CDJs to be used in conjunction with music stored on a laptop or desktop computer. Traktor Scratch Pro comes with a pair of cables that connect to turntables and back into a USB soundcard which then simulates the turning and scratching of the turntables or CDJs on the pc and thus effects the music being played off the computer as if you were actually playing the music off of the turntables. I personally do not use this function nor have I ever tried it, but from what I’ve heard from friends that do use it. It is very good and intuitive.
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_54zi5hXrO5A/S6kGqJsvCCI/AAAAAAAAACs/qhjpXfF5quA/s200/Screen+shot+2010-03-23+at+2.20.57+PM.png (http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_54zi5hXrO5A/S6kGqJsvCCI/AAAAAAAAACs/qhjpXfF5quA/s1600-h/Screen+shot+2010-03-23+at+2.20.57+PM.png)

The Software also comes with an Audio 8 DJ (http://www.native-instruments.com/#/en/products/dj/audio-8-dj/) soundcard ($449) one of the best out on the market, and which pretty much comprises the bulk of the cost of the software package that comes in Traktor Scratch Pro. While I do not use the Audio 8 DJ for gigs as I do not need to use such a large soundcard for my setup, I have only heard amazing things about it.


In the Box:http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_54zi5hXrO5A/S6kGRDhp4DI/AAAAAAAAACk/2kwa0uRIe2U/s200/Screen+shot+2010-03-23+at+2.13.56+PM.png (http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_54zi5hXrO5A/S6kGRDhp4DI/AAAAAAAAACk/2kwa0uRIe2U/s1600-h/Screen+shot+2010-03-23+at+2.13.56+PM.png)
TRAKTOR SCRATCH PRO software,
AUDIO 8 DJ audio interface,
2 control vinyl records/2 control CDs,
2 Multicore cables,
manual



System Requirements:
MAC OS: Intel® Core™ Duo 1.66 GHz, 1 GB RAM, Mac OS® X 10.5/10.6

Windows OS: Pentium / Athlon 1.4 GHz (SSE1), 1 GB RAM, Windows® XP (SP3, 32 bit)/ Vista® (SP1, 32/64 bit)/ 7 (32/64 bit)



All in all the software is quite good. While the internal mixer and features cannot truly compete against the sound and power of an external mixer, it is easily the best bang for the buck for Djs trying to start out. Traktor Scratch Pro can be used on Tunrtables, CDJS, and MIDI controllers, but if you aren’t looking to mix with Vinyl or CDJs I would opt for the cheaper Trakto Pro, which would save you a little over $300 at $229 US (http://www.native-instruments.com/#/en/products/dj/traktor-pro/?page=217) compared to Traktor Scratch Pro at $669 US (http://www.native-instruments.com/#/en/products/dj/traktor-scratch-pro/?page=238).



Bottom line, I use Traktor Scratch Pro and I’ve never looked back. Do I think I could have done with just Traktor Pro for my setup? Definitely yes, but it leaves my options open for the future if I’d like to use CDJs or Turntables in the future.


for more info about the product visit http://www.native-instruments.com/#/en/



Regards, BMO