The Best Source for DJ Equipment News, Updates, and Product Announcements – DJ-Equipment.com

Ah, it’s NAMM time once again and Mackie is back, showing off our great new products, including the completely redesigned Mackie MRmk2 Series Powered Studio Monitors. If you are visiting NAMM, be sure to come upstairs to check out our innovative demo-room-only location in Demo Room 209A/B.

Can’t make it? A cool Facebook contest let’s you get in on the action and be entered into a contest with a chance to win a killer Mackie live sound system (2 x TH-12A / 1 x ProFX12)! Click here to check it out.

Here’s some additional info on the great new Mackie products being debuted

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	MRmk2 Series POWER. PERFORMANCE. CLARITY.When your studio is ready to go pro, you want a reference monitor that translates in all environments, holds up under all conditions, and isn’t painted up like a school bus. You want an investment that sounds both amazing and amazingly flat, so you don’t end up second guessing your mixes into infinity. You also want monitors you can turn up, because not every artist is “satisfied” listening to their ear-shredding guitar solos or thunderous bass tones at “nominal volumes.” And you want all of this at the right price. MRmk2 Series Studio Monitors are all that and more. With unbelievable power, performance and clarity MRmk2 Mackie Reference Monitors stand alone in their class. • All-new high-end transducers • Class-leading power via dual precision power amplififiers • Custom waveguide for superior stereo imaging and clarity • Rugged all-wood, ported cabinet design more info
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	TH-12A LOUD. AFFORDABLE. THUMP.The Mackie TH-12A Powered Loudspeaker delivers proven Mackie performance and quality in a portable design that delivers real-world power with superior midrange for vocal and acoustic applications. Efficient Class-D Fast Recovery™ amplification provides 400 watts of total system power, tuned to perfectly match the custom-designed 12? high-precision woofer and 1? compression driver. The TH-12A delivers the Thump you demand and all the tools you need, including user-adjustable 3-band EQ and Mackie Active electronics for total system optimization. Powerful, punchy and ultra-affordable, the TH-12A is the best powered loudspeaker option for your hard-earned money. • 400 watts of total power • Superior midrange for vocal and acoustic applications • Ultra-compact and lightweight for max portability (~30 lbs) more info
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	MCU AND XT PRO NOW WITH ALPS FADERS AND A NEW LOW PRICEThe industry standard MCU Pro control surface is back, now featuring brand-new Alps® faders for an ultra-smooth feel, and a new low price sure to please any studio professional. The robust new 100mm Alps faders are belt-driven, with sturdy teeth and gears for executing smooth fades with no “zipper” feeling. Also available now is the companion XT Pro, offering a bank of eight additional Alps faders and rotary encoders for those with larger setups. The best news is that we have significantly dropped the price of the MCU and XT Pro, making them not only the industry standard control surface family, but the most affordable pro controllers on the market. Now is a better time than ever to check out Mackie’s award-winning control surface solution. • 400 watts of total power • Superior midrange for vocal and acoustic applications • Ultra-compact and lightweight for max portability (~30 lbs) more info

Popularity: 5% [?]

We are pleased to announce the addition of two new models to our critically acclaimed line of Shure Professional Headphones.  The SRH550DJ delivers extended bass optimized for both DJ mixing and personal listening and the premium SRH940 reference headphones are designed for critical listening, studio monitoring and mastering.

Officially introduced today at The NAMM Show 2011, the SRH550DJ and SRH940 have already earned rave reviews from press, end-users and channel partners.

Notable product characteristics include:

SRH550DJ – Professional Quality DJ Headphones

• Full range frequency response with enhanced bass
• Adjustable, collapsible headband with 90-degree swivel ear cups for comfort and flexible wearing positions
• Ultra-lightweight design which folds to a small size for maximum portability
• Available: Mid-February 2011

SRH940 – Professional Reference Headphones

• Accurate frequency response delivers tight bass and smooth, high-end extension, with minimal distortion
• Lightweight, ergonomic fit with premium padded headband for comfortable, extended wear
• Collapsible design with 90-degree swivel ear cups for easy storage and portability
• Replacement set of velour ear pads included for long product life
• Bayonet clip securely locks detachable cable into ear cup
• Suggested Retail: $375 (Audiolines Price will be $299!!)
• Available: Mid-March 2011

From professional monitoring to personal listening, Shure headphones bring together dynamic, high-performance audio with the unparalleled build quality that has made Shure a leader in professional audio for over 85 years.  With the new SRH550DJ and SRH940, customers now have a choice between a variety of sound signatures and features tailored to meet any audio need.

Popularity: 4% [?]

New Akai Pro Gear at Winter NAMM 2011

This year at NAMM, Akai has released many new items! Check it out!

EIE: 24-bit I/O never looked this cool The EIE is a tabletop I/O and USB audio interface perfectly tailored for your project and portable studio setups. This four-in, four-out (4×4) device enables you on Mac and PC-based systems to record up to 24-bit resolution into virtually any DAW, recording or performance software. Learn more here!

Record and monitor with RPM3 RPM3 monitors provide full-range frequency response to ensure audio reproduction that is pure, yet compact. The lightweight and portable design means the RPM3 system can be easily placed in a carrying case and taken on the road, allowing for reference monitoring anywhere. Read all about them here.

Get your hands on real Analog Delay Analog Delay is essential ammo in the modern guitarists effects pedal arsenal. Analog Delay provides three-dimensional control in heavy-duty polished stainless-steel housing. True-bypass switching, adjustable Mix, Time and Repeat knobs and a durable Time Switch toggle provide precision delay control. Learn more here.

Blues Overdrive recreates classic sound Recreate the sound of blues from Nashville to Chicago and all points between with Blues Overdrive from the Akai Pro Analog Custom Shop. Blues Overdrive is an essential ingredient in the Analog Custom Shop product line. Blues Overdrive’s heavy-duty polished stainless-steel housing is deceptively simple in appearance, wonderfully deep in appealing, warm tone. There’s so much more to it and it’s all explained here.

Make your guitar sing with Chorus Akai Pro’s Chorus is a new pedal from Akai Pro’s Analog Custom Shop. Chorus is your secret weapon in creating a thick, lush customized sound. Chorus is housed in heavy-duty polished stainless-steel. True-bypass switching combined with adjustable Tone, Speed and Spread knobs provide a wide range of precision control.

Compressor has industrial-grade compression Compressor , from the Akai Pro Analog Custom Shop, is the ideal solution to sculpting a defined guitar tone. Compressor combines Level and Sensitivity knobs in a heavy-duty polished stainless-steel housing with classic custom graphics evoking the true sound of guitar glory. There’s more about Compressor here.

Rock your world with Deluxe Distortion The Akai Pro Deluxe Distortion guitar effects pedal is the flagship of the Analog Custom Shop product line. Deluxe Distortion combines distortion, tone-control and amplifier simulation in heavy-duty polished stainless-steel housing. True-bypass switching, adjustable frequency knobs, amp simulation and tone toggle switches provide precision control. Learn more here.

Flanger: Warm tone & hyper resonance Warm tone, Hyper resonance, Pure analog. Those are the hallmarks of Flanger, from the Akai Pro Analog Custom Shop. It’s a great example of a classic sound improved. Flanger includes Rate, Depth, Manual and Resonance knobs in heavy-duty polished stainless-steel housing. True-bypass switching and four adjustable knobs provide precision control. Check it out here.

Phase Shifter is an instant modern classic This is a true modern classic. Phase Shifter, from the Akai Pro Analog Custom Shop is one of the more esoteric pedals in the product line. Phase includes A and B frequency toggle-switches and a Rate knob in heavy-duty polished stainless-steel housing. True-bypass switching and three control mechanisms provide precision control. Read all about it here.

Tri-mode Distortion is three distortions in one It’s three distortions in one. The Analog Custom Shop Tri-Mode Distortion guitar effects pedal is an excellent affordable alternative to the more top-end Deluxe Distortion. Tri-Mode Distortion combines Level, Tone and Distortion knobs with a Fat, Boost and Warm Tri-Mode switch in heavy-duty polished stainless-steel housing. True-bypass switching, three adjustable knobs and tone toggle switch provide precision tone control. There’s even more about it here.

Tri-mode Fuzz is 3-times the fuzzy pleasure Tri-Mode Fuzz is Akai Pro’s Analog Custom Shop solution to the classic fuzz guitar sound. It combines Level, Tone and Fuzz knobs with a Muffy, Boost and Warm Tri-Mode switch in heavy-duty polished stainless-steel housing. True-bypass switching, three adjustable knobs and tone toggle switch provide complete fuzz control. There’s even a whole page about it here.

Tri-mode Overdrive: scream, boost or warm Tri-Mode Overdrive is the big brother to our lower-cost Blues Overdrive. Tri-Mode Overdrive combines Level, Tone and Drive knobs with a Scream, Boost and Warm Tri-Mode switch in heavy-duty polished stainless-steel housing. True-bypass switching, three adjustable knobs and tone toggle-switch provide precision tone control for an unrivaled tube-like sound. Learn all about this Analog Custom Shop pedal here.

Popularity: 4% [?]

HyperStation

Two-tier Portable Laptop Stand with Angle- and Depth-adjustable Laptop Support Arms and Height-adjustable Second Tier for Hard Drives, USB Hubs, and Other Computer Accessories

Hyper Station is designed to go wherever your music takes you. While sturdy enough to safely hold your laptop and other small electronics, it folds up as one piece and fits in a backpack! But, don’t let the sleek styling fool you; this is not a flimsy, plastic stand. Hyper Station is constructed from die-cast aluminium making it incredibly sturdy while surprisingly light. The automotive-grade anodized finish is stunning and scratch resistant. The laptop support arms are angle- and depth adjustable. You can place your laptop at whatever angle suits your needs and then secure it in place with the telescoping non-marring arm stops. The modern musician and DJ artist carries additional hard drives, MP3 players, USB hubs, and other computer accessories with them to each and every gig. Hyper Station has you covered! The second tier is height adjustable and fitted with ports for venting and cables.

Popularity: 3% [?]

PGX Digital Wireless Offering tailored wireless solutions for vocalists, guitarists, and presenters, PGX Digital combines the trusted legacy of Shure microphones with state-of-the-art digital wireless technology that delivers strong, clean RF performance. Now Available.

SRH550DJ and SRH940 Professional Headphones From professional monitoring to personal listening, Shure headphones bring together dynamic, high-performance audio with unparalleled build quality. A  closed-back design minimizes background noise, while the lightweight construction provides sustained comfort that makes them ideal for any listening experience, whether on the subway, in the DJ booth, or in the recording studio. The new SRH550DJ and SRH940 now offer customers a hobbyist DJ solution and a top-tier monitoring solution within the current SRH line. Available Spring 2011.

SE215 Sound Isolating™ Earphones Designed for professionals and audio enthusiasts, Shure Sound Isolating™ Earphones provide an unparalleled combination of sound signatures, sound isolation, and compact, ergonomic design for use in live performance and critical listening. The latest edition to the SE line, the SE215 features a detachable cable and new dynamic microdriver technology for detailed sound with enhanced bass. Available Spring 2011.

New Products from Shure

U.S. Dealers, We are excited to be announcing the following new products at the NAMM Show on January 13, 2011. Additional information regarding marketing materials, specific ship dates and pricing will be communicated to you in the future.  Please contact your local Sales Representative with any questions. Sincerely, Terri Hartman Director of Marketing Communications, Americas

PGX Digital Wireless Offering tailored wireless solutions for vocalists, guitarists, and presenters, PGX Digital combines the trusted legacy of Shure microphones with state-of-the-art digital wireless technology that delivers strong, clean RF performance. Now Available.

SRH550DJ and SRH940 Professional Headphones From professional monitoring to personal listening, Shure headphones bring together dynamic, high-performance audio with unparalleled build quality. A  closed-back design minimizes background noise, while the lightweight construction provides sustained comfort that makes them ideal for any listening experience, whether on the subway, in the DJ booth, or in the recording studio. The new SRH550DJ and SRH940 now offer customers a hobbyist DJ solution and a top-tier monitoring solution within the current SRH line. Available Spring 2011.

SE215 Sound Isolating™ Earphones Designed for professionals and audio enthusiasts, Shure Sound Isolating™ Earphones provide an unparalleled combination of sound signatures, sound isolation, and compact, ergonomic design for use in live performance and critical listening. The latest edition to the SE line, the SE215 features a detachable cable and new dynamic microdriver technology for detailed sound with enhanced bass. Available Spring 2011.

Product Preview: PSM®1000 Personal Monitor System PSM 1000 is the industry’s most sophisticated personal monitor system and the choice for premier events and prestige tours. Available Spring 2011.

Product Preview: Axient™Wireless Management Network Axient Wireless Management Network establishes a dramatic new threshold of control, convenience and confidence in RF transmission, reception and spectrum management for mission-critical applications. Available Mid 2011.

Popularity: 6% [?]

NEW FROM AMERICAN DJ! The VMS4, the VMS2, and the VMS Bag!

The VMs4 Traktor
Just when you thought our VMS4 Digital MIDI work station couldn’t get any more popular, we’ve followed it up with a new version that comes bundled with an exclusive version of the legendary and universally acclaimed Traktor software from Native Instruments that supports 4 decks. The VMS4 Traktor has unique 4X Midilog channels that are compatible with any Midi Learn software or analog inputs. Cross fader curve adjustment, assignable touch strips, 2X mics with gain, treble, mid, and bass control are just a few of the other features that will make the VMS4 Traktor sell itself.

VMS2
Our new 2-channel MIDI Controller offers more features, more performance, and more value than any product in its class. The VMS2 comes bundled with the always-popular Virtual DJ Software and features 2x Midilog channels compatible with any MIDI software or analog inputs, giving it great versatility to go along with its value and performance.

VMS Bag
Our new soft bag protects your gear better than ever. Extra pads mean this bag can hold a variety of MIDI controllers as well as one laptop up to 17 inches. There’s a pocket for extra cables and power adapters, plus an extra strap to fir on rolling bags. This is perfect for entertainers on the go!

Check out the American Audio website for more info: www.americanaudio.us

Popularity: 10% [?]

BREAKING NEWS!

NEW GEAR PREVIEW FROM WINTER NAMM!

Numark, Alesis, Akai Pro and Alto Professional Product Showcase

We’re at the biggest show of the year and we have put together a sneak peek sampling of some of the best new gear ever, just for you. Have a look below at what is being announced live from the show, then click the included news links to see all announced products.

______________________NEW from Numark!________________________

Numark NS6: This Changes Everything
The NS6 is a 4-channel Digital DJ controller with complete built-in mixer and four decks of software control. NS6 is the first truly pro-grade DJ controller and standalone 4-channel mixer with effects. Simply put, there has never been this much versatility and control available for professional DJs.

The World’s Smallest DJ Controller: DJ 2 GO
Even the smallest DJ controllers range from being luggable requiring their own set of wheels. Numark has changed all that with DJ 2 GO. Now for the first time ever, DJs can throw their entire rig into a backpack and have room to spare. To learn more about this pocket-sized party controller, go here!

VIEW THE ENTIRE NUMARK LINE OF NEW GEAR FRESH FROM NAMM AT: http://www.numark.com/newgear2011

__________________________NEW from Alesis!_______________________________

DM8 Pro Kit: Perfect sound, feel, look, and size
Perfect. It’s a word that’s thrown around a lot these days. But with the DM8 Pro Kit, you might just find it. The Alesis development team painstakingly examined all aspects of what makes a kit the best possible choice – all with the goal of creating the perfect electronic drumset. Learn more here.

Meet StudioDock: Your iPad’s new Best Friend
Connect all of your audio gear to the entire world of apps for iPad with StudioDock! The StudioDock is a universal docking station specifically designed for the iPad, and it gives musicians, recording engineers, and music producers the connectivity they need to create and perform with iPad. Read all about it. Apple certification pending.

VIEW THE ENTIRE ALESIS LINE OF NEW GEAR FRESH FROM NAMM AT: http://www.alesis.com/newgear2011

_______________________NEW from AKAI Professional!_____________________________

EIE I/O
This is a tabletop I/O and USB audio interface perfectly tailored for your project and portable studio setups. This four-in, four-out (4×4) device enables you on Mac and PC-based systems to record up to 24-bit resolution into virtually any DAW, recording or performance software.

10 New Drool-worthy Analog Pedal

The Analog Custom Shop is a brand new series of boutique pedals that are among the funnest and coolest things we’ve ever produced. From Fuzz to Flanging, there are 10 pedals in all so get your groove in and check out the entire lineup of the Analog Custom Shop.

VIEW THE ENTIRE AKAI PRO LINE OF NEW GEAR FRESH FROM NAMM AT: http://www.akaipro.com/newgear2011

____________________NEW from Alto Professional!_________________________

TRUESONIC LINE
The TRUESONIC Series was designed from the ground up to be the most transparent loudspeaker money can buy. Rigorous testing and thousands of hours of listening have gone into making sure that what you pump into a TRUESONIC speaker is exactly what you get out.

MIXPACK LINE
Using an all-in-one PA system doesn’t have to mean you’re sacrificing your sound quality. All three MIXPACK systems boast impressive frequency response and wide dynamic range, and provide superior clarity when compared to other all-in-one portable PA systems. They also turn heads wherever you set them up.

VIEW THE ENTIRE ALTO PROFESSIONAL LINE OF NEW GEAR FRESH FROM NAMM AT: http://www.altoprofessional.com

Popularity: 10% [?]

Offering tailored wireless solutions for vocalists, guitarists, and presenters, PGX Digital combines the trusted legacy of Shure microphones with state of the art digital wireless technology that delivers strong, clean RF performance. The result is wireless audio that sounds like wired, rock-solid RF signal, and simple setup and operation.

Top features include:

Pure Digital Sound

• 24-bit / 48 kHz digital technology for incredibly accurate sound
• 20 Hz – 20 kHz frequency range captures every detail
• Wide selection of rugged Shure Microphones – including the legendary SM58

Rock Solid Wireless Reliability

• True digital diversity for a rock-solid wireless signal
• 900 MHz operation free from TV signal interference
• Frequency scan feature scans the entire frequency band to determine the optimal channel for operation

Simple Setup and Operation

• Scan and sync instantly and automatically sets up the system
• Up to 5 systems can be used at once

PGX Digital Wireless systems are now available.

Popularity: 3% [?]

Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc.’s Professional Sound and Visual Division today announced its DDJ-S1 DJ controller specifically designed for use with the popular Serato ITCH™ DJ software. The DDJ-S1 controller is designed for the next generation of DJ entertainers who leverage digital music files at home or on the go. DDJ-S1 features the same operability and functionality of a professional player and mixer set up in addition to exceptional audio quality.

“Use of the laptop computers for DJ performances continues to be prevalent and the demand for quality controllers, combined with an instinctual software interface is growing,” said David Arevalo, senior marketing manager, Professional Sound and Visual Division for Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. “The DDJ-S1 paired with Serato ITCH DJ software fully maximizes the ‘Pioneer DJ experience’, giving users of our products the necessary tools to create the best performance possible.”

The DDJ-S1 allows for easy transfer of music from the user’s laptop with a USB connection for simplicity and quick ‘plug-and-play’ capability. For additional convenience, the controller also comes with a space saving computer dock that allows a laptop’s keyboard to slip directly under the controller, enabling its monitor to be closer to the DJ to provide fast visuals of song information while mixing. The device adopts Pioneer’s ‘P-LOCK Fader Cap’, designed to prevent the fader caps from slipping.

Key features include:

o  Plug-and-Play USB Connectivity – All buttons and knobs have been pre-assigned, so users can quickly connect the controller to their laptops with the use of a USB cable, enabling them to start their performances without having to adjust any complicated settings. Additionally, the DDJ-S1 can be powered through the laptop’s USB port1.

o Multiple Input and Output Options – The controller is equipped with various inputs and outputs including a balanced XLR output and 2 Microphone inputs (XLR, 1/4 inch PHONE) for connection to professional PA equipment2.

o  Designed Specifically for Serato ITCH DJ Software with Advanced Pioneer Functionality – The DDJ-S1 offers tight integration with Serato ITCH DJ software and is loaded with original functionality. Unique features include song progression status on a LED display; an alphabetic search function for quick song selection from large music collections; and a slip mode for looping, reversing, and scratching without changing the song tempo. The DDJ-S1 also includes needle search functionality to quickly skip through songs to a preferred playback point.

o Specially Designed User Interface – The controller layout and Serato ITCH software interface are the same, ensuring ease-of-use and precise control. The DDJ-S1 is modeled after the established design of the professional Pioneer DJ player and mixer and integrates centrally placed level meters and an effect control area, so DJs can add Serato ITCH DJ FX to the mix.

o  Highest-Quality Sound – The controller is optimized for Serato ITCH DJ software and incorporates technology from Pioneer’s professional line of DJ equipment to ensure the highest quality sound output.
Additional features include:

o Proprietary lock mechanism called the P-LOCK Fader Cap designed to prevent fader caps from slipping3.

o Premiere built-in sound card.

o Both microphone inputs are equipped with a talk-over function to lower the music volume when receiving voice input from the microphone.

The Pioneer DDJ-S1 will be available in March 2011 with a suggested retail price of $1,599.

Popularity: 5% [?]

CURRENTLY AVAILABLE FOR SALE, INCLUDING DURING NAMM:

1) INNOFADER CLASSIC (est. $115-$120 sale price)
This Innofader version fits and works in most current and obsolete VCA mixers on the market. A complete list of compatible mixers is available online at http://www.innofader.com/compatible.php. Additional adapters are available for the TTM-57, Pioneer DJM-800, Tascam XS-4 and XS-8, Ecler HAK 320 and before, A&H Xone:42, and Behringer DX-052 mixers.

2) INNOFADER DJM-400 VERSION (est. $165 sale price)
This is the Innofader Classic with brackets for fitting in the DJM-400

INNOFADER VERSIONS COMING SOON (samples Mar 2010, production late Spring 2010)

1) INNOFADER DJM-909 VERSION (sale price TBD)
The Innofader DJM-909 Version is a custom Innofader designed to work in the Pioneer DJM-707 and DJM-909.

2) INNOFADER PRO (sale price TBD, est. similar to Classic)
The Innofader Pro is mechanically identical to the Innofader Classic but has numerous circuit improvements. Listed improvements show the improvements and example mixers:
1) Has a full range VCA output (Vestax PMC mixers, Urei 1603, Ecler Hak 320 and before, and Tascam X4/X8 mixers)
2) Compatible with mixers which reverse crossfader power when crossfader output is reversed (A&H Xone:02, Ecler HAK mixers 320 and before, Tascam X4 and X8)
3) Allows hookup of external power to the fader where VCA power is limited (Rane TTM-54, A&H Xone:62)
4) Also works with inexpensive non-VCA mixer circuits (Numark M2, Vestax VMC mixers, Vestax PMC channel faders)

3) INNOJUSTER (sale price TBD)
The Innojuster is an Innofader Classic and Innofader Pro control box including cut-in, curve, reverse, and calibration controls for the mixer. This is useful so DJs don’t have to remove the faceplate to make Innofader adjustments, or they can use these functions for mixers which don’t have them.

All Audio-Innovate products are available from Audiolines.com

Popularity: 18% [?]