#idj pro

We were recently pleasantly surprised to hear that Numark got the go-ahead to produce the iDJ Pro, which was on display at the latest NAMM convention.  For those who haven’t heard, the iDJ pro was remarkable for its complete integration of iPad and controller into a single unit – meaning no more need to mount a vertical screen somewhere in your setup.  Digitaldjtips.com has now had their chance to give you the low down on what they think of the unit. Aside from the obvious implementation of the iPad into the controller itself, Numark has made some changes to their controller “philosophy” by adding such features as the ability to download firmware updates directly through the iPad, and they have even thought ahead to find ways to incorporate newer iPad editions like the iPad mini. http://www.digitaldjtips.com/2012/09/review-video-numark-idj-pro-2

Controller gear is getting to the point where the market is completely saturated with new gear all the time.  This means that we can expect to see many decent units that are affordable, but it also opens the door for super cheap units that can handle only the basics.  From a controllerists’ standpoint, there really isn’t much you need out of the hardware itself so long as you have your routines coordinated on your laptop or iPad.  Each controller has its own feel; some better than other – but a DJ can easily adjust from one controller to another, especially if it is used primarily for mixing. [embed width="656"]http://youtu.be/p8Oy5kZ-Y4Y[/embed] NAMM 2013 revealed that gear manufacturers were focusing on creating smaller cheaper derivatives, as well as unveiling completely new products.  It’s not surprising that multiple manufactures are introducing similar priced products that cater to the same basic audience.  Numark’s iDJ Live II is scaled version of their first model, and there isn’t much to say about the unit other than it is very low budget.  Unlike the Pro version, this doesn’t integrate with your iPad by placing the iPad inside of it.  Instead, it is small enough to be carried alongside it, and cheap enough that you won’t feel too bad if it breaks. http://www.digitaldjtips.com/2013/01/namm-2013-numark-idj-live-ii-video-talkthrough/

I’m almost convinced that I could purchase an iPad and readily be able to DJ with it – almost.  There are still many factors that seem to convince me otherwise.  For one, I actually like having a big bulky laptop to run programs off of.  I feel secure knowing that I have a rather large battery as well as a multitude of ports to plug whatever it is I need, into my computer.  I like that fact that I can fold down the screen and easily adjust the viewing angle – and the best of all is that it is design to sit there without needing something to prop it up.  Users of the iPad may disagree with everything I’m saying there.  They may like its light weight and the ability to lay it flat or hold it in one hand – but when it comes time to start plugging things into it they have to actually tweak it or buy accessories that allow that to happen. Given these constraints, the guys from Numark and other companies have been working around these issues and finding ways to better incorporate the iPad into the DJing system.  So far, the iDJ Pro seems to have done the best job of it. http://www.digitaldjtips.com/2013/02/news-roundup-for-ipad-iphone-ipod-touch-djs/  

The Numark iDJ pro is one of those rare gems that comes along from a company who is not known to push out instant winners all the time.  Let’s face it – Numark has a lot of products on the shelves these days.  Much of these are hit and miss products and have such a low production value that they can afford to lose a small profit here and there by testing the waters to see what works.  This strategy is different from someone like Pioneer who seems to only make products that sell well – but they’re expensive.  When Numark makes something that the people like, they capitalize on it and push even further into its research. The iDJ pro is one of the few that actually has a unique design; the iPad is incorporated into the mixer itself, meaning no laptop stands or other makeshift crutches to hold the screen down while you mix.  It is conveniently located smack dab in the middle of the entire setup.  Not bad if you ask me.  Now that the DVS with an external soundcard is becoming something of the past this may in fact be the most compact one piece system that any DJ can get their hands on. http://www.digitaldjtips.com/2013/04/review-video-dj-player-v6-for-ipad-iphone/

Tablets are selling faster than laptops and the appeal isn’t always clear from buyer to buyer.  Students often buy a tablet (not necessarily an iPad) to supplement their school work.  It allows them to carry around one tablet instead of three of four textbooks which can way up to twenty pound on the shoulders.  Professionals often use tablets for specific reasons; perhaps they want to take credit card payments directly, or maybe they need to view documents and images on the fly – without needing paper printouts.  For musicians the tablet can be a multitude of things, it can be a recording device to replace a laptop or it can be used directly in a performance or live show.  For the DJ the use of the iPad is not as clear. They want something that is portable, and the tablet fits the bill.  However, they also need to be able to input instructions and actively use the device rather than just starring at it all day.  Since there are not too many ways to plug a device into the iPad, hardware is often built around it instead.  This is the case with the Numark iDJ Pro, which minimizes the amount of screen taps. http://www.digitaldjtips.com/2013/06/over-to-you-which-is-the-best-dj-controller-for-ipad-djay/

My new rig. The 1's & 2.0's

A new mash-up of mine 'Jaded Alive' / Progressive House: Deadmau5 - Jaded (Original Mix) Moonbeam & Mattvey Emerson - Alive (Club Mix) Enjoy<3