Korg Kaossilator 2 bursts into life [NAMM12]

Korg has updated its hugely popular Kaossilator with the arrival of the Kaossilator 2.

Still sporting a vibrant yellow body (whether it comes in pink is another matter) it boasts a range of features including:

• Simple control with finger taps/slides on the integrated X-Y touchpad
• 150 built-in sounds cover every style of dance music
• PCM sound engine serves up realistic drums
• Scale Key and Note Range eliminates “wrong” notes
• Built-in Gate Arpeggiator with adjustable gate time and swing settings
• Loop Recording allows the creation of layered phrases with unlimited overdubs
• Dual Loop Recording banks allow DJ-Style mutes and cross-fades
• Record using the built-in mic; or use the mic input for recording of external input
• microSD/SDHC card slot for saving loops and recorded performances

More details, specs, pricing and availability to be confirmed.

Korg Mini KAOSS PAD 2 hits [NAMM12]

Korg has announced a new addition to its KAOSS family of DJ-friendly audio products with the arrival of the Mini KAOSS PAD 2.

Highlights include:

• Control effects in real time using the intuitive touchpad interface
• MP3 player with microSD card slot for data storage/exchange;
  
  Perform on the Mini Kaoss Pad 2 without needing any other equipment!
• 100 effect programs, ideal for DJ mixes or sound design
• 3 Program Memories provide instant recall of favorite effects
• Powerful Looper, Vinyl Break, and Ducking Comp effects borrowed from the Kaoss Pad Quad
• Internal mic plus external audio inputs
• Support for pitch change and cue point settings allows serious DJ play.
• Record your performances and save then to using the microSD card slot
• 6 preset audio demo loops

We’ll keep you updated with full specifications, pricing and availability as soon as we know it.

MASCHINE MIKRO available from Mid-October

Buy the MASCHINE MIKRO from zZounds.

As well as the iMASCHINE App for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad, Native Instruments has announced a new, compact, cheaper alternative to its MASCHINE hardware.

MASCHINE MIKRO offers the same kind of performance and features as its bigger brother but at a reduced price and size.

This latest addition to the family has the same powerful software and 6 GB+ sample library as its big brother, as well as the same responsive pads on a more compact and portable controller. MASCHINE MIKRO makes a perfect addition for any production setup – get hands-on with your rhythms and grooves both in the studio and on the stage.

MASCHINE MIKRO Hardware Specifications

• Width: 320 mm / 12.6″
• Length: 195 mm / 7.7″
• Height: 55 mm / 2.2″
• Weight: 1.2 Kgs / 2.6 lbs
• One high-contrast black and white display 64 x 128 pixels
• 16 high-quality, illuminated pads with velocity and aftertouch
• One master knob for controlling numerous functions
• 28 backlit buttons
• USB 2.0
• Kensington Lock

MASCHINE MIKRO: Comparison With MASCHINE

Here’s how the MASCHINE MIKRO compares to the full-blown MASCHINE. Though you lose out on displays, entry dials and a few other things, the MIKRO is still no pushover.

Which MASCHINE is for me?

Priced €349, new stock will be available online from 20th October. Buy from zZounds.

Product page

Serato intros DJ Intro software

Based on its “Itch and Scratch” DJing software, Serato has announced the more entry-level DJ Intro software aimed at budding hobbyist DJs who still need decent control over their music mixes.

The two-deck software is free to download but needs pairing with a compatible controller such as Numark’s MixDeck/MixTrack or Vestax’s Typhoon/VCI-100 Mk II.

Features include sync, five cue points and a sample player which can load up to four short samples. A bank of basic chain-able effects (three for each deck) include reverb, filter and delay.

Specifications

• Two tracks can be mixed simultaneously using traditional DJ controls – scratch, nudge, pitch bend, EQ.
• Serato Sync locks tracks together for seamless grooves.
• Serato Crates make audio file management easy and advanced iTunes integration gives you instant access of personal library and playlist information.
• Cue points allow you to quickly access specific parts of songs.
• Loops repeat selected sections and can create new intros, outros and extended mixes.
• DJ-FX will enhance any DJ set, allowing you to color songs and create unique sounding transitions.
• The Sample Player can play up to four short samples, audio loops, sound effects or full length tracks in addition to the two tracks you’re mixing.
• Plug-and-Play connectivity makes it simple and fast to setup your supported Serato DJ Intro controller, computer and software and start DJing.

Product page

TRAKTOR CONTROL S2 DJ system arrives from Native Instruments

Native Instruments has announced the launch of its TRAKTOR CONTROL S2 2.1-channel DJ system, claiming it to be the most professional 2-track controller on the market.

As well as the essential twin decks and mixer, there are controls for multi-effect units plus a third channel for samples. The S2 is rugged and portable, able to stand up to the rigours of life on the road, and comes with the full version of TRAKTOR PRO 2 software.

The combination of software and hardware aid in allowing a DJ to produce cutting-edge, synchronised mixes.

Specifications

Dimensions

Depth: 4.4cm
Height: 29.2cm
Width: 43.8cm
Weight: 2.7 kg

Supported Audio Formats

MP3, WAV, AIFF, Audio-CD, FLAC, Ogg Vorbis, non-DRM WMA (Windows only), non-DRM AAC.

Hardware

Product page

Dubby and Dubstep Pro+ come to iPad, iPod touch, iPhone

Yet another couple of apps in the growing list of software for DJs. This time, LifeVision Studios has brought out its Dubby and Dubstep Pro+ apps for Apple devices.

As the names might signify, these two bits of software are related to one another. Dubby is the ‘lite’ version (though it’s not a free app) whereas Dubstep Pro+ contains more features.

Dubby

Dubby is jam-packed with the hottest halfstep beats, deep subs, phat wobbly basslines, twisting melodies, bombastic build-ups, vocals, stomping chords and a massive effect section. Huge dubsteps, monster tunes and guaranteed awesome sounds.

Features:

• Integrated iPod Library Access
• Full realtime recording & automation of all parameters
• Loop instruments and sounds
• Individual loading of samples
• Record your mixes
• Edit your beat by changing the volume and other effects
• Integrated Intro Sound Sampler
• Freestyle mode
• Voice Recording
• Use your own custom MP3′s
• Mastered sounds
• Fully optimized for iOS multitasking and background operation
• FX Equalizer
• Variety of sounds
• Uses stereo imaging
• In easy control
• Full HD Retina display
• Quick navigation
• And much more

Dubstep Pro+

The slightly more expensive Dubstep Pro+ “is the fastest and smartest way of making great sounding playbacks or whole dubstep records with minimum effort.”

Features:

• Includes smart recording features that let you enhance the tuning and timing of audio recordings
• Automatic loop tempo’s
• Superior Mixing and Editing
• Good sounding stretching algorithms
• Innovative Loop-Based Music Creation
• Professional Effects
• Transform loops
• Enhanced remixing tools
• Record your own vocals and instruments over loops
• Add your own music to the mix
• Dynamic playback optimization
• Integrated iPod Library Access
• Fully optimized for iOS multitasking and background operation
• Individual loading of samples
• And so much more…

Both apps have received very positive reviews and ratings, so if you’re into this genre and looking for something portable, check them out.

Dubby on iTunes Store | Dubstep Pro+ at iTunes Store

Allen & Heath Xone:DB2 digital FX mixer launched

Pay attention! The next incarnation of Allen & Heath’s Xone:DB digital mixer range has arrived.

It’s called the Xone:DB2.

The fully digital mixer features two powerful multi-effect engines and the essential elements of A&H’s flagship DB4 but at a more affordable price.

The DB2 has four input channels, each of which has a full input matrix that can select from four analogue, four USB, or two digital sources. The DB4 style ‘Trimodal EQ’ has been included, which can be configured as a standard asymmetric EQ (+6/-25dB), total Kill (+6dB/OFF with a 24dB/octave slope), or a High-Pass/Low-Pass filter system with adjustable resonance. Each channel has a single routing switch that sends to the main mix, or to either of the two FX sections, and this control also assigns the crossfader.

There is a single microphone channel, which can also be switched to stereo line, providing 2-band EQ, gain, cue, and mix level. Similar to the main input channels, this can also be routed to either of the FX units or direct to the main mix. Beneath the Mic channel is the headphone monitor system, and to the right of the main mixer is the master section, with main mix level, booth level, and the two FX sections.

Each FX engine has 5 basic studio quality FX types – based on the iLive pro-touring FX system and optimised for DJ use – comprising delays, reverbs, modulators, resonators and damage, plus each FX type has a patch library of different effect variations that can be assigned to the relevant control. There is also a filter on the output of each FX bank, and each has a dedicated expression control and a rotary pot to set the wet/dry level, whilst further effect tweaking can be performed using the encoders beneath the OLED screen.

The OLED display is clearly visible even in bright sunlight, and displays the FX selection and current BPM, as well as being an easy and intuitive interface for the Menu set up functions. The mixer offers many user defined settings, such as meter mode, BPM range, USB audio routing scheme, display brightness, in addition to the extensive built-in FX library.

The built-in, multi-channel USB2 soundcard allows replay and recording from computer-based audio software for 4 stereo sends and 4 stereo returns. All controls (except Mic and Phones level) send MIDI data and the mixer can double up as a MIDI controller via the MIDI shift button, which allows the FX selection controls to send MIDI data without changing the mixer settings.

Like the DB4, the DB2 also has an X:LINK socket to allow easy integration of the new Xone:K2 software controller.

The Xone:DB2 also sports a stylish, lightweight aluminium chassis designed to make touring easy. Other features include crossfader and upfader curve controls, multi-point level metering, digital output, analogue balanced outputs for main mix and booth, and a record output with adjustable level.

djay: David Guetta Edition launched in App Store

There are plenty of mobile DJ applications coming to the market particularly for Apple’s popular iPhone, iPod touch and iPad devices.

Now DJ David Guetta has put his unique sound on an app. djay – David Guetta Edition is packed with his own beats and sounds.

This special edition of djay features an all-new, stunning Live Sampler, and contains exclusive David Guetta bonus material including twelve signature synth samples and drum beats, and five of Guetta’s electro tracks from the deluxe editions of his new album NOTHING BUT THE BEAT:

• Lunar
• Little Bad Girl Instrumental
• Sunshine
• Glasgow
• Paris

A hyper-realistic touchscreen interface and ultra-low latency converge to offer you a true professional mixing experience, right in the palm of your hand. You can perform, record mixes on-the-go, and remix live using the Sampler to trigger original David Guetta sounds in-sync with the music, hours of fun! Or simply enable Automix mode and let djay mix your favourite iPod playlist at your next party – auto-magically.

With unprecedented ease-of-use, innovative multi-touch mixing features, and a wide range of David Guetta bonus material, djay – David Guetta Edition gives you all the tools you need, offering a unique experience for beginners and professionals alike—all in your pocket.

Features

• Direct access to iPod library
• Integrated David Guetta section with 5 bonus tracks
• Live Sampler with 12 exclusive David Guetta signature sounds (6 synths + 6 drum beats)
• Hyper-realistic low-latency turntable interface
• Exclusive portrait (single deck) and landscape modes
• Automix mode with automatic transition control (Fade, Backspin, Reverse, Brake, and Random)
• Automatic beat and tempo matching (BPM sync)
• Looping (Auto, Manual, and Bounce)
• Cue Point Trigger
• Live Recording
• Seamless AirPlay integration (wirelessly transmit your mix to Apple TV or AirPort Express base station)
• Pre-Cueing (with optional headphone adapter)
• Full visual waveform
• High-quality scratching
• Mixer, tempo, and EQ controls
• Pitch-Bend
• Beat-synchronized scrubbing
• Support for all major audio formats including MP3, AAC, WAV, AIFF (no support for DRM protected songs)
• Fully optimized for iOS multitasking and background operation

Supported Hardware (optional):

• Griffin DJ Cable (adaptor for Pre-Cueing with headphones)
• Numark iDJ Live (MIDI controller for a tactile turntable-like experience)

Get more information at the official web site or download from the iTunes Store.

ONE DJ software video promo

Sparse on details, but take a look at this video promo for a new piece of DJ software which should be available soon.

What do we know about ONE? Nothing much except that it’s “Not Just Another DJ Software”. Presumably we’ll hear more about it in due course:

The One Teaser from The One on Vimeo.

Via Gear Junkies)

Denon DJ unveils DN-MC6000 full mixer/four deck MIDI controller

Buy the Denon DN-MC6000 Digital Mixer/Controller on Amazon.com | Amazon UK

No sooner do you report on one DJ solution then another comes along. This is the Denon DN-MC6000 mixer and MIDI controller, featuring its own built-in sound card and a host of features to play with.

This top-of-the-line model boasts a solid steel chassis construction and quality sound, real-time channel matrix operation, slim tabletop design (also rack mountable) and 2in/2out audio interface.

Denon DN-MC6000 Key Features

• New, 3-way powerful audio/video-assignable cross fader (Audio, Audio/Video, Video)
• Newly designed, high-resolution 105-mm touch-sensitive jog wheel
• Smooth 100-mm long pitch slider with high 14-bit resolution
• Eight (4 + 4) hot cue/sampler buttons with dual bank selector key
• Auto loop button with Beat Jump (loop cut)
• Manual loop In/Out buttons
• Large-size Cue & PLAY buttons
• EFX controls, EFX keys and Parameter knobs
• Multiple GUI controls – Mixer, Video, Scratch, Sampler, REC, etc.
• Powerful Shift key – used for various dual-button operations
• Search keys, to advance around within a file
• Denon’s legacy “Pitch Bend” keys
• Vinyl and Pitch Bend Jog modes
• SYNC key for beat matching between decks
• Key Lock on/off button with LED confirmation
• Matrix Input Assignment selector knob
• Selectable PFL input gain and program meters
• Independent CUE system (all channels)
• Split Cue function with Cue/Master pan knob
• 45-mm Channel and Cross Faders
• Independent Channel A-B Thru switch (cross fader)
• Cross Fader contour adjustment
• Master Output stereo/mono switch
• Booth Output with Source Selector and level control
• Mic 3-band EQ (High-Mid-Low) for mics 1 and 2
• Mic Ducking and built-in Echo Effect for mics 1 and 2
• MIDI-mappable control surface (faders, knobs and buttons) for other DJ applications

Inputs include two RCA/Phono lines, one XLR Mic/quarter-inch one quarter-inch TRS Mic jack, and two RCA AUX inputs.

Outputs include balanced master XLR, unbalanced master RCA, quarter-inch TRS booth/send out, RCA record out, and stereo headphone out.

The DN-MC6000 also has a USB Audio in/out selectable routing switch and a Kensington lock security feature. The unit measures 18.1″ x 2″ x 10″ without rack ears. Power input is AC 100V – 240V, 50/60 Hz, and output is DC 12V, 3A.

AC adaptor power supply and 1.5-meter USB cable are included, and the unit also features a green, energy-saving ECO standby mode.

Available in the US this Fall with a RRP of $949.99 but available for less.

Denon DJ

Buy the Denon DN-MC6000 Digital Mixer/Controller on Amazon.com | Amazon UK

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