TOOLS OF THE TRADE

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 12:09:02 -0600

So I figured I'd list a good rundown of everything we're using now. Theres a mix of traditional analog hardware and newer midi based devices. Initially I was gonna stick with an entirely digital based solution, but decided there were better options which could integrate the best of both worlds (digital vs. analog).

Midi based controllers are a budding market just waiting to explode. Maybe further down the road there will be something that could warrant a complete transition. Taking a look at some of the new products shown at NAMM this year, one can see that manufacturers are looking to appeal to the professional DJ.

DJTechtools.com was kind enough to post several in depth reviews of these products (most slated for release sometime this year): NAMM 2008 CONTROLLER REVIEWS

DJ Travcon's equipment breakdown:

Apple Macbook
Mac OSX 10.5 (Leopard)
Intel Core 2 Duo 2.4Ghz (3MB L2 Cache)
2GB PC5300 DDR2
Intel GMA X3100 Graphics (144MB Shared)
160GB SATA - 5400 RPM

Pioneer CDJ-800 MKII (x2)

Pioneer DJM-800 4CH Mixer

American Audio MX-1400 DSP 4CH Mixer

M-Audio Torq Xponent

M-Audio Torq Connective

Novation Remote SL-25 Intelligent Midi Controller

M-Audio Torq 1.0.6

Native Instruments Traktor DJ Studio 3

Mr. Jay's equipment breakdown:

Custom Build Laptop
Windows XP Pro (OEM w/ SP2)
Intel Core 2 Duo 2.00GHz (4MB L2 Cache)
2GB PC5300 DDR2
ATI X1600 Mobility Graphics (256MB)
80GB SATA - 5400 RPM

Numark TT500 Direct Drive Turntable (x2)

Technics SL-DZ1200 (Direct Drive CD Player)

Korg KP1 series Kaoss Pad

Roland SH-201 Synthesizer/Midi Keyboard (good ol' analog grit!)

KRK RP-8 Studio Monitor (x2)

ABOUT DJTC-MRJAY.INFO

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 12:55:05 -0600

DJTC-MRJAY.INFO was established to track my personal progression as a
Digital DJ. Other topics relevant to the field of Digital DJing will be
covered from time to time as well. In the near future you should have
access to some media we make available.

I've listened to various genres of electronic music for years now, but
didn't get involved in mixing until this past year or so. It was my
introduction to "Mr. Jay" that lead to greater interest in the mechanics
and concepts of DJing (not to mention a deep appreciation for the
music). "Mr. Jay" currently works with vinyl as well as CD's. With my
experience in various DAW's and his hands on approach we each had a lot
to offer each other in terms of expanding our repertoires.

Look for some detailed updates on the equipment we'll be using soon.
This should give you a good idea of what your options are when entering
the field of Digital DJing, regardless of whether you're currently still
using vinyl or CD's.