Tascam DP01FX 8 Track with Effects Digital Multitrack Recorder Review

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(More customer reviews)My first multitrack recorder was a Fostex cassette based recorder back in the early 90's. I loved it - used it nearly daily to work out arrangements or learn new songs. When it finally quit working, I was a little heartbroken.
At that time, someone had turned me on to PC multitracking software - which was a suitable solution, until I started upgrading. I found that certain programs wouldn't work with certain operating systems, conflicts with various attached devices would cause recording errors. I felt like I spent more time troubleshooting my system than actually recording.
After much research, I settled on this unit. As a solo artist this is an excellent machine - I mostly record acoustic arrangements, with some electric guitar and drums. Although I've used this for a week, I couldn't be happier with the results...far superior to my old cassette unit, and much easier to use than software. The sound is much better than I hoped for...and the menus are easy to navigate.
The guitar effects are OK, but not great. I don't expect I'd use them at all...the sound I get when I mic my amp is far better. The vocal and drum effects, on the other hand are more useful. Overall, I expect I should be able to make very high quality demos.
You can only record two tracks at a time, but as a solo artist, that's not such a big deal. For bigger arrangements, such as with my band, I have a 14 channel Mackie mixer that I run into the unit that allows me greater flexibility.
The unit is easy to learn how to use, and the user's guide is written so that my 11 year old can figure it out. I had no trouble recording, mixing and mastering...following the instructions in the guide, I was able to successfully transfer the final mixdown of my music to the computer without any hangups.
Overall, I'm very satisfied with this unit.


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Twenty-five years after the introduction of the first Portastudio, the new DP-01FX 8-track Digital Portastudio makes hard disk recording affordable and simple enough for all musicians. Continuing TASCAM's "Capture Your Art" campaign of making recording approachable to all musicians, the DP-01FX features the one-knob-per-function design that has made TASCAM cassette Portastudios the choice of thousands of musicians. It shatters the confusing page-shift-menu interface popular with most other digital recorders. And at a price under $500, multitrack recording to hard disk has never been more affordable.The DP-01FX has two mic inputs on 1/4" TRS or XLR jacks for dual mono or stereo recording. Phantom power is provided for connecting professional condenser microphones. Its eight tracks record at uncompressed CD quality to an internal 40GB hard drive, and a stereo master track is available for recording a mix. Each channel has a 45mm volume fader, plus dedicated controls for pan, effects send, high EQ and low EQ. An LCD display shows meters, editing settings and locate points. The DP-01FX has a USB 2.0 jack for file backup and transferring mixes to a computer. There are analog RCA line outputs, a headphone out and S/PDIF line output. The DP-01FX also has a multieffects processor for adding effects to an instrument during recording and a reverb processor for adding effects during a mix. 8-track recording at uncompressed CD quality into a built-in 40GB hard drive2-tra...

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Focusrite ISA One Classic Single-channel Mic Pre-Amplifier with Independent D.I. Review

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(More customer reviews)This preamp is cleanish warm and can be nice and warm when stacked on tracks...Its a pro preamp and never think its not, The DI is very handy and can actualy be used for stereo recording with the preamp and di input.(input another preamp out to DI input to the optional a-d out)outs are now stereo...
Two recordings at the same time is a big deal if you have the a-d card, it has 2 xlr outs or the a/d card stereo outs with preamp and another input....again these preamps are used on professional recordings the isa 110's which this is a single version....
This unit does not include the a-d digital card, they run around $399 but are pro quality as well, not at all like Focusrite's cheaper pres a/d or the Behringer's a-d mess....

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Focusrite is dedicated to bringing you the tools you need to enhance the way you work. Our products are made with pride and principle by engineers who themselves are musicians and understand the part our products play in your process. The ‘ISA One' microphone pre-amplifier delivers Focusrite's prestigious ISA transformer-based pre-amp in a rugged and portable chassis, at a groundbreaking price. ISA One features the classic vintage microphone pre-amplifier topology from the original ISA110 module, including the Lundahl L1538 transformer and bespoke zobel network. The pre-amp is complemented by a line input and an independent D.I. channel, complete with dedicated gain control, active or passive impedance switch, a TRS Jack output for routing to an amp and an independent XLR output on the rear. This flexible independent D.I. makes the ISA One ideal both for engineers wishing to blend a D.I.'d guitar signal with a mic'd guitar cabinet, and for demanding performers who require a single classic solution for both guitar and vocals.ISA One also features an insert point, for extra processing between the pre amp or D.I. and the optional converter. Phantom power, phase reverse and a 75Hz, 18dB/octave high-pass filter are also available from the angled front fascia. Independent input metering for both channels is provided by a moving coil VU meter with variable calibration to suit analogue and digital recording media, alongside two six-LED peak meters; inputs can be metered either pre- or post-insert. The meter calibrations utilize all the same reference points as Digidesign's Pro Tools HD system, allowing effortless line-up. ISA One's headphone output features a dedicated volume control to deliver an external stereo cue mix fed to the headphones via two TRS jack inputs on the rear of the unit. At Focusrite our focus on quality is all-consuming. All of our products are easy to use, logically designed, and give years of class-leading, top-notch performance.

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Bose T1 ToneMatch Audio Engine Review

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(More customer reviews)Make no mistake, this is a state of the art mixer which outputs amazing sound. However, after owning and using this for 10 months as a professional musician, it froze in a blank-blue-screen, and stayed that way. The screen and dials were lit up as if the unit was working, but it was frozen and the screen was totally blank. No amount of 're-booting' helped. I was at a gig at the time, and it was a very bad situation. (understatement) Bose, to their credit, is replacing it with a new one, but I don't think I will trust it to be my sole mixer anymore. Shame.

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The Bose ToneMatch audio engine is designed to enrich the sound of musicians using any L1 system. Its powerful features and tone-shaping tools quickly bring you closer to the true sound of your voice and instruments. This versatile audio engine helps you sound your best in live performances. It expands the input capacity of your L1 system and gives you instant access to a host of proprietary EQ presets, standard effects and processors.The ToneMatch audio engine puts Bose's largest library of customized presets at your command. These presets instantly adjust your system to match the intended natural sound of popular instruments and microphones. So you reproduce factory-specified tonal balance—precisely and at the touch of a button.Different presets can be independently assigned to the engine's four channels. For example, select Audix OM5 mic presets for channels 1 and 2, Taylor guitar for channel 3 and Lakland bass for channel 4—all at the same time. Bose engineers continually work with manufacturers to expand the ToneMatch preset library. Updates are available to you free, with easy downloading via the engine's USB port.Intelligent equalization: zEQ Fine tune your sound with greater accuracy. Bose intelligent zEQ redefines low, mid and high ranges for each ToneMatch™ preset. When you need to cut or boost specific frequency ranges for different instruments and mics, zEQ gives you the power.Suite of effects and dynamics processing Globally assign one of five different reverbs to each mic/line channel. You can also choose from 3 delay types, ten additional effects, and seven dynamics processors—and assign them independently to each channel.Custom scenes Store your customized settings for specific gigs with the "scenes" feature. The T1's engine comes with five predefined Bose scenes and ten you can define. Fast, one-touch scene recall helps you make quick work of repeat setups.Easy connections Simply link the engine to an L1 Model II system via t

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Yamaha QY100 Music Sequencer Review

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(More customer reviews)This is the best drum machine out there, because it's the only one I could find that allows you to substitute any yamaha keyboard sound for a drum. In other words, instead of the limit sounds you get from other drum machines (snares, kicks, symbols, and maybe bass), you get EVERY sound with this thing. So what you can do with this thing is take, for example, the kick on any preset drum loop this thing has, and replace that kick with a trumpet or guitar or strings. And obviously with such an awesome feature like that, it would be important to be able to set the "key" for those other instruments, which this thing does better than any other with its built-in miniature keyboard (look at the photos to see, it has a two octave keyboard of white and block keys) which you can use to "record" the key changes of your sequence. So you take, for example, a preset sequence/loop and you hit "record" and you begin to play along with the keys, and it records that as a song. You can then play back that song in any tempo, and it's like you got a whole band accompanying you. And more than this, this thing has a full-feature synth so you can edit every sound, make it dull, make it echo, add any effect, adjust the equalization of any sound, resonance, cut-off certain frequencies, etc. The only thing I wish this thing would do is light-up better in the dark. It can be hard to see in the dark. I had to use a book-reading light to see it in some live settings.

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If you're a guitarist, singer, or other instrumentalist who wants aneasy way to create great-sounding accompaniment for practice orperformance, the QY100 is for you! If you're an artist who needs aversatile song-writing tool for sequencing and music production, theQY100 is perfect for you, too! The QY100 is compact and battery-poweredso you can even pop it into your bag or backpack and create and playanywhere, anytime!The Amp Simulator – Inspiring sound for Guitarists and SingersLet's face it, great sound iswhat inspires performance and motivates you to practice. The QY100'sbuilt in Amp Simulator bring you the characteristics of a range ofamplifiers – specifically guitar amplifiers and microphone preamplifiers– so you have total control over your own sound as well as your backingaccompaniment. In addition to great amp sound, the QY100 Amp Simulatorincludes a range of top-quality effects for use with guitar andmicrophone. The guitar setups, for example, feature overdrive/distortion, modulation(chorus, flange, etc.) and reverb. The microphone setups offer delay,modulation and reverb. The QY100 has 18 guitar setups and 5 microphonesetups that you can customize to create the perfect sound for yourmusic.

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Marshall AS100D 2x8 Acoustic Combo Amp Review

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(More customer reviews)Finally, I've found an amp that does what I want it to. Great sound, clear and LOUD. Reverb could be better, but I sometimes use separate effects. Now here was the shocker: I hooked up my electic guit and PODxt, expecting the same crappy sound I've always gotten through acoustic amps (I've tried 5 different brands/models). JIMINY CRICKET what a fantastic sound with this amp, with an electric guitar thru the POD. I'm in HOG HEAVEN. Now, I suppose purists would scoff, but I'm into DRAMA not "multiple condenser mic" purity. All I can say is, after YEARS of flopping around trying to get the right sound at a human price, this wonderful machine does it all for me. At this price, I don't see how anyone could be disappointed.

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This Marshall AS100D Acoustic Combo Amp is the one to have. Specially designed for use with a variety of acoustic instruments with or without pickups. Its four channels give you the flexibility to handle piezo transducers or magnetic pickups, a mic for vocals or instruments, and external audio equipment via a phono input channel. Channels 1 and 2 have separate EQ and level controls but also may be linked. 2x50W stereo power gives you plenty of oomph for stage performance, and a balanced line out allows direct connection to a PA. The Marshall amp has a built-in digital reverb, delay, and chorus that add dimension to your sound, and a balanced parallel effects loop with level is included. Anti-feedback controls include a phase switch and notch filters for each channel with selectable extra notch depth for channels 1 and 2.

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Numark NS7 DJ Turntable Controller with Serato ITCH Software Review

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(More customer reviews)Coming from a turntable and vinyl background, I was and still am excited about this product. I purchased it and have been very content. The unit is about 35lbs. and VERY solid. I have to get use to scratching on it compared to turntables. The platter should have been made 9" but I'm taking it in stride. All crossfaders have a quality feel, no static and the scratch curves feel as good or better than my Rane TTM57sl.
My only complaint is that Numark did not future-proof this unit with effect buttons. I find the software (Serato iTch) and mixing is (CURRENTLY) a little more boring than Serato Scratchlive and my 57 mixer. Serato is supposedly working on effects and making iTch's software closer in features to Scratchlive.
I purchased the Numark case with the unit and REALLY love doing mobile gigs now. No more individual TT cases and mixer cases. No more RCA and ground wires and at least 15 minutes less setup time. I'm saving close to 70 lbs. in travel weight too. One bit of advice is to be wary of using PCs with this unit. I have a Unibody Macbook Pro 2.66Ghz but struggled making a Core2-Duo 2.2Ghz 4GB ram PC work "glitch-free" with the NS7 and iTch. It had quirky behavior while tracks were playing, random stops and various audio dropouts. Many PCs will (by default) have IRQ sharing which can hose up USB connectivity (the main source of NS7 communication to your laptop) if there are conflicts.
In troubleshooting, I had to insure bluetooth, anti-virus, firewalls, NIC cards, screen savers, wireless Network cards, on-board video and all sorts of services were disabled on the PC (a TOTAL administrative nightmare!) and still ended up having to run the latency at 5ms or greater for decent performance. My mic had major echo delay with this setting so enough was enough.
I purchased the MBPro and have not had a SINGLE glitch since. My latency is at 1ms AND I can run apps in the background while DJ'ing without problems. I highly recommend the NS7 (with adequately powered MAC) for any mobile DJ.

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Designed in collaboration with Serato, the Numark NS7 DJ Turntable Controller combines an all-metal chassis with adjustable torque, motorized, aluminum-turntable platters, vinyl, and a professional audio interface to deliver a complete performance solution that will satisfy even the most hardcore turntablist.
It offers a full complement of premium faders, knobs, buttons and the new Strip Search virtual-needle-drop control, which integrates seamlessly with the included Serato ITCH software. The NS7 delivers hands-on control of every aspect of Serato ITCH and sends data to the software more than ten times faster than standard MIDI resolution. And because it was designed for ITCH, NS7 setup time is the bare minimum--no tweaking, no mapping; just plug and perform.
The NS7's dual decks flank the mixer section. Its recognizable, professional appearance is supported by clean design in matte and glossy black. The entire unit is housed in a heavy-gauge, industrial-strength metal casing that is ready for the torture of travel.
Key Features
High-resolution controller built for Serato ITCH and compatible with Scratch LIVE libraries
Direct-drive, motorized turntable platters with classic and modern feel settings
Includes Serato ITCH DJ software, fully pre-mapped
Audiophile-grade audio circuitry with mic and line inputs, system and cue outs
Extensive loop, cue, and track-access controls
Strip Search (patent pending) virtual-needle-drop control
Controls most MIDI applications without requiring a mouse or keyboard
Rugged, all-metal construction
High quality, replaceable, customizable CP-PRO crossfader and D-TYPE line faders
Support for Whitelabel.net files in ITCH
Mix using either 33 RPM or 45 RPM speeds

Perfect Feel The NS7 has two seven-inch, motorized, high-torque aluminum turntable platters, and the turntable controls feature modern and classic settings that alter the feel to model the feel you prefer. Seven-inch, legit vinyl records with 45 RPM adapters sit on real slipmats--no simulation.
Solid, rugged, rubberized buttons and knobs compliment a high precision, replaceable CP-PRO crossfader and D-TYPE line faders for an unquestionably high-quality feel. The CP-PRO digital-VCA crossfader has a solid feel that is smooth and rigid. Like the crossfader, the D-TYPE digital-VCA line faders are replaceable. The crossfader offers contour adjust and reverse adjustment, enabling you to customize its operation.
System Simplicity Forget the mouse and the keyboard. The NS7 renders ITCH software perfectly simple to operate, with its click knob and large, backlit buttons navigating though your music library. You'll spend less time looking at the screen and more time enjoying performing thanks to the visual feedback you get from NS7's more-than 100 LEDs and more-than 100 hands-on controls.
A single USB cable between NS7 and your Mac or PC is all you need to send audio and data back and forth. The NS7 has onboard audio outputs so it's the only piece of gear you need to connect to the PA system or powered speakers. It outputs 24-bit, 44.1 kHz digital audio to the sound system on XLRs and RCAs. The front panel contains mic input, RCA line input, and both 1/4" and 1/8" headphone outputs with volume control.
The NS7 comes with an integrated laptop stand that supplies safe, secure mounting for your laptop. You can use an ultra-small space because NS7 elevates your laptop off the table.
Precision Control The NS7 sends control information over USB at more than ten times the standard MIDI rate. This innovative communication technique yields extremely high-precision, low-latency control.
There's nothing like dropping the needle on a record for quickly locating a point in the track, and with Strip Search--the unique virtual-needle-drop touch strip--you can locate a point instantly within the track using the on-screen waveform
Five hot-cue-assign buttons on each deck digitally mark your cues on the track. These marker points are recallable in ITCH and Scratch LIVE, and you can load Scratch LIVE cue points in ITCH.
Each deck offers an extensive Serato-style loop section, and you can choose between manual and auto-loop functions and an automatic BPM analyzer further assists loop makers. Creating automatic smart loops of any measure length is a breeze, and you can mutilate and modify to heart's content with a variety of controls such as Doubling, Halving, Shift, and manual controls.
Audio Quality The NS7 contains a host of professional audio connectors and a multichannel, 24-bit USB digital-audio interface. The high-definition post-mix analog audio output features a minimized circuit path with containing only one audiophile-grade bipolar capacitor. This optimized design maximizes phase coherence, ensuring that audio is tight and punchy.
Serato ITCH Software IF you use Scratch LIVE, you'll become quickly familiar with Serato ITCH. Because ITCH doesn't require a timecode interface, your system can be as simple as, say, NS7 and your computer. Since ITCH makes timecode a thing of the past, you won't need to worry about needles skipping or vinyl wearing out. You can load your Scratch LIVE crates, loops, presets, and cue points seamlessly in ITCH. The NS7 also works with most other MIDI DJ software and supports iTunes.
ITCH handles audio processing and mixing including channel fading, EQ, crossfading and track trim are processed for outstanding control and management of your tracks, ease of recording your set, clip-proof gain management, and BPM calculation using the power of your computer's processor.
The History function in ITCH keeps a comprehensive record of every track played and exports sessions from your history to 'txt', 'csv', or 'm3u'. ITCH also has a Loop Roll function that provides a looping effect where the playhead jumps back to normal time when you release the loop. Built-in key support ensures that ITCH reads key tags from MP3 files and displays them in the 'key' column in your library.

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Bugera 1960 Classic 150-Watt Hi-Gain Valve Amplifier Head Review

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(More customer reviews)I did a lot of research (or as much as possible) on this amp. First of all, I'm 32 and play all kinds of tones. I'm current with all kinds of music, and don't just play bbq blues. I've been looking for an affordable all tube amp for some time that didn't have all kinds of doo-dads and modelers, etc. I've owned a '78 50watt JMP, '73 Sunn Model T, 70's Fender Twin, Orange AD30, as well as some solid state amps when i was first getting into guitar.....So i'm familiar with tube tone and good vs. bad. The only thing this AMP can't do is nu-metal...but that's a good thing. you can hook up a tone sucking distortion pedal if you must, but don't waste all this warmth. For someone who plays at low volumes, this may not be the amp for you. this amp is plenty loud, and sounds better the louder it's turned up. It has a grindy overdrive and distortion as opposed to a smooth or fuzz type. I personally love this, and is what i look for. Bridging the high and low channel is the way to go, but you'll have to crank it to get it to break up...so again, if you don't like it loud, get an amp that has a master volume. The high channel will drive the pre-amp for tone, and the low will drive the power tubes to get its tone. not the most versital amp but if you like it pure, this is a great competitor in the tube amp tone world. I perfer it to many of the amps that were $1,000 more.

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Classic 150-Watt Hi-Gain Valve Amplifier Head

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DENON DN-HC4500 DJ Mixer USB Controller Review

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(More customer reviews)Although the controls, buttons and display make for a "busy" looking layout, it performs to perfection! Easily configurable to PCDJ-Red Mobile (my software of choice at the present) and VERY responsive! For me, this was an upgrade from the PCDJ DAC-3 and I'm glad I made the switch as I have restored confidence in my mixing/transitions: when I press PLAY, it plays!! Worth every penny.

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The Denon DNHC4500 is their first USB MIDI/Audio interface designed exclusively for computer performance club and mobile DJs worldwide. Ever since the needle hit vinyl, DJ's have been setting the standard for what's hot. Denon comes from that same philosophy and passion, leading the way and creating the path for DJ evolution. The feature-packed, professional, PC/MAC compatible DNHC4500 controller combines unmatched hardware performance with internal high quality audio processing offering low latency ASIO/OSX Core Audio support. The DNHC4500 does more than talk MIDI, it offers the exclusive flexibility to control Denon's optional BU4500 dual CD/MP3 player for simultaneous 4-player configuration. The controller is bundled and complimented with an LE trial version of PCDJ's revolutionary new software, Reflex, that offers an array of amazing forward thinking features. Denon DN-HC4500 Features Includes LE Trial Version of Reflex by PCDJ Internal 24-Bit Processing & USB Audio BU4500 Drive Support Multi Functional Touch Sensitive Jog Disc Vibrant Tube Display w/ 2-line Character Text Support Highly Responsive Soft Rubber Buttons, Switches & Knobs High Speed USB 2 Interface Among the DN-HC4500's other advanced features is a Multi Functional Touch Sensitive Jog Disc constructed with an ultra high-resolution pulse and touch sensor to accurately reproduce the most subtle or swift scratching movements made by the human hand. The Jog Disc can also be mapped to perform other vital functions too such as, pitch bending, scanning, file searching and dry/wet control for effects. In addition, a Vibrant Tube Display with 2-line Character Text Support offers two lines of character information, letting DJs quickly navigate through files, crates, folders and confirms without having to look up at their monitor. A visual 32-position Marker Point indicator foll

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Hercules DJ Control Steel Review

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(More customer reviews)I love my Hercules RMX, but as my shows are getting bigger I'm starting to produce some of my music and using more effects so I switched to the Steel. I love this mixer as I can program up to 12 effects and works great as a video mixer without paying the $6 grand for the pioneer. If I get that big, maybe I will cough up the money for the pioneer, for now this is under $250 and works great. I may one day get an effects controller to plug into my denon, for now this is the best of both worlds.

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The portable, USB-powered Hercules DJ Control Steel offers dual mixing decks on a steel surface that's specifically designed for professional DJs who already have an audio interface, but need a reliable advanced digital mixer that offers a multitude of functions. This two-tone black and silver surfaced controller features a removable, customizable steel center plate, solid metal casing for perfect portability and solid, sensitive controls with plenty of space for precise mixing. The DJ Control Steel offers MIDI control capability, and it comes bundled with Virtual DJ 5 for PC and Mac.


Key Features
Dual mixing decks on a steel surface
Dual-deck DJ controller with equalizer and volume controls
Track reading controls (jog wheels, effects, pitch etc.)
Track mixing controls (cross-fader, volume faders, kill etc.)
Ample space under the DJ's fingers allows precise mixing
Ideal for mobile DJing, the device connects to and is supplied through the computer's USB port (whether PC or Mac, laptop or desktop)
Supplied with a carry bag, the controller can be carried over the shoulder.
2 decks, 6 sliders, 13 rotary knobs and 46 push buttons
Controls allow for easy mixing and offer access to advanced features
VirtualDJ DJC 5 version for PC & Mac, featuring a dedicated skin
Compatible with all DJing software programs using MIDI instructions
Runs on Windows XP, Vista and 7 (32- and 64-bit versions) and on (Mac OS 10.4, 10.5, 10.6)
For use with all digital music formats: MP3, AIFF, WAV, WMA, OGG, Audio CD formats and iTunes Library. iTunes playlists are now directly accessible in VDJ 5 DJC edition.
Dimensions: 13 x 9.7 x 2.6 inches

Controls 2 Jog Wheels
Enhanced precision (over 3 times DJ Console Mk1 & Mk2's jog wheels precision).
Adjustable resistance.
6 Faders
3 volume faders
2 pitch faders
1 cross fader
13 Rotary Knobs
6 equalizer knobs
2 gain knobs
2 effects knobs
2 preview knobs
1 balance knob
46 Push-Buttons
15 effects buttons
6 kill (EQ) buttons
6 read/cue buttons
4 pitch bend buttons
4 menu buttons
4 fast forward/fast rewind buttons
2 track loading buttons
2 preview buttons
2 synch buttons
1 scratch mode button

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Digidesign Command 8 Control Surface for Pro Tools Review

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(More customer reviews)My son is a sound recording technology student at college. I'm a computer expert. To help my son in his studies, I upgraded his Apple/Sonar DAW to a ProTools environment. We spent many thousands of dollars doing so, and it was a painful experience.
The Command|8 proved to be the most frustrating element in the entire digital sound chain, and a lack of good documentation and support from Avid (or whatever it is called today - the company appears to merge and change its name weekly) does not help.
It took weeks to get the device configured and working reliably with ProTools 8. Even after that it would constantly require recalibration or would go offline arbitrarily, requiring reinstallation of protools to bring it back. I have no idea how pro-am studios manage to survive using ProTools.
A few weeks out of warranty, the display failed and the unit refused to come online. The faders go crazy for a few minutes then park at the bottom although you can hear the fader motors still clicking wildly. This problem is posted several times on the Avid user forums, and appears to be a common defect. Repair costs might run to several hundred dollars.
Unlike most users, we read the user manuals "avidly" and followerd all user directions. As a former sound engineer myself, I insisted that all equipment in the sound chain was covered with dustcloths when not in use. This device was probably used less than 100 hours in its lifetime.
Do not buy this product.

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The Digidesign Command 8 control surface puts full control of Pro Tools TDM or LE at your fingertips more affordably than ever before - for both Windows XP and Mac OS X. Through a simple USB connection, Command 8's eight bankable channels of touch-sensitive motorized faders, rotary encoders, and LCD displays enable you to control your Pro Tools system with a fully featured, intelligent control surface. As with other Digidesign control surfaces, Command 8 gives you channel strip mixing functionality along with the ability to view and edit plug-in parameters and to automate sends, pans, track volume, and mutes. Transport controls (Play, Record, etc.) are also included, complete with a footswitch jack for QuickPunch and TrackPunch in, further increasing your independence from mouse-and-keyboard-only interaction with your sessions. Command 8 features a 1-IN/2-OUT (16 channels in/32 channels out) MIDI interface for integrating your MIDI-compatible gear into Pro Tools. Its Standalone MIDI controller mode enables you to use Command 8 with your favorite third-party MIDI applications and devices - any device or application that accepts MIDI control change messages for level, panning, solo, mute, MIDI Machine Control, and other mappable parameters. For keeping an ear or two on your mixes, Command 8 includes an onboard monitor system featuring acclaimed Focusrite audio performance and quality. It supports a Main Pro Tools Input, External source (a turntable mixer or CD player, for example) and separate speaker and headphone outputs. Along with Pro Tools TDM and LE systems, Command 8 also supports Avid products natively, including Avid Media Composer. When used with Avid products, Command 8's controls are mapped to the Automation Gain Tool for recording dynamic volume automation as well as Solo, Mute, and Snap Mode on and off. Since it connects via USB, no additional MIDI interface is required. Better yet, when utilized in su

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Mackie Onyx 1620i FireWire Recording Mixer Review

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(More customer reviews)this mixer is amazing. if you have wanted to build a project studio or record your band in your rehearsal space, this is the mixer you need.
the pre's sound great. very quiet (even when jacked).
the eq is really fun to play around with. you can really find the sound you are looking for with a few tweaks.
i'm using Ableton as my recording DAW. it's really snappy and after a few tweaks, very hard to notice any latency.
the Firewire I/O also works with Pro Tools, which is great. the driver is available for purchase on the mackie website.
for this price, you won't find anything even close to the same ball park.


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Compatible with Pro Tools M-Powered 8; Mackie Provides Power Mixing to Your Stage or Studio! The Mackie Onyx 1620i Firewire recording mixer combines the benefits of a powerful computer interface with the tactile, hands-on control of a premium analog mixer. Equipped with eight premium precision engineered studio grade Onyx microphone preamps, the Onyx 1620i is great for live sound reinforcement or studio recording, all in a durable road-worthy package.

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B600 1x12" Bass Combo Amplifier Review

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(More customer reviews)I'm a guitar player, first and foremost, but I do a lot of recording in my basement where I play all the instruments, so I also have a Fender jazz bass for laying down bass tracks. Recently, I started playing bass for a small band. I had a Peavy Microbass that sounded, well, OK, but it turned out not to be loud enough with live drums, piano and a couple of guitars. I didn't want a giant, heavy bass amp to give me hernia just to play in my local synagogue, and I didn't want to spend a lot of money. After some internet searching, I went and played the Hartke B600. I found it at a local merchant who was having a 15% off sale and grabbed it for $169.00.
It has tons of power and a 12" driver, plus an effects loop, line out and headphone out. It stands upright or tilts back. Great tone control circuits. All under 40 lbs. I need to play more with the tone settings but even straight out of the box and with random twiddling it sounds great. It is truly an amazing, lightweight but powerful 12" 60 watt bass amp for an unbelievably low price (even at retail).
JMT

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12 bass driver and 60 watts of power in a newly designed kickback cabinet. 3 bands of EQ and adjustable Shape circuitry. Like the other B Series combos, the B600 features a dedicated effects loop, line level out, a buffered input and a headphone output.1x12" Paper driverPower: 60 wattsEffects Send and ReturnSignal-To-Noise: 65 dBDynamic Range: 80 dBDimensions: 19" (H) x 18.5" (W) x 14.6" (D)Weight: 39.5 lb.WARRANTY 3 years parts and labor.

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Behringer Europort EPA150 Ultra-Compact 150-Watt 5-Channel Portable PA System with Digital Effects and FBQ Feedback Detection Review

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(More customer reviews)I was needed a PA system for a indoors and outdoors small parties where quality sound is required in the range of 100 feet. This system has meet all my expectations: sound was loud and clear, plenty of controls, ability to mix the sound from several sources. I really liked it.

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Sometimes you just don't need a large, complicated PA system to get your message across. In fact, you might not need a big system at all! For those occasions when you do need to get your voice above the crowd, such as a company meeting, a picnic or party, the EPA150 brings that extra volume, along with all the accessories you'll need, in a convenient, easy to carry and setup package. And the good news is you don't have to be a sound engineer to run it!

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QSC GX5 Stereo Power Amplifier Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought the QSC GX5 stereo amplifier for use in my band's practice studio. We previously used a Mackie mixer/amp setup and we recently bought an Allen & Heath mixer along with the QSC Amp. We've gone from a little noisy system to an absolutely silent (no hiss, no noise) system even when turned all the way up. It's nice! We A/B'd the amps and while the Mackie is rated to have more power, the QSC is clearly punchier and so much cleaner. I can't say enough about how nice this amp is. I've owned Crown, Crest and Yamaha amps as well and none of them were cleaner than this one.
As for durability, it's still new BUT QSC is offering a 6 year warranty for free on this model (until March 09) so I can't imagine they would do this if these amps were a service problem.
Oh and it looks great in my rack. I read somewhere that the amp is noisy when the cooling fans get going. Knowing this, I cranked the amp full and ran a punchy CD through the mixer full blast (no distortion!) and waited while the amp warmed up. After it reached operating temperature, the fan(s) indeed came on but by no means were they "loud." If I had this amp in a recording studio, I would have the amp in a soundproof room or enclosure as I suppose the fan could be audible during very quiet recording sessions. On the other hand, it is reassuring that I know the fans are indeed working, keeping the rails cool. For live sound, it just isn't a real issue.
Now I'm considering getting another QSC for a monitor amp. I heartily recommend this amplifier.


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The QSC GX5 amplifier is ideal for professional entertainers who require maximum performance and portability on a limited budget. QSC designers, headed by Pat Quilter, have optimized output and appearance while reducing raw material cost and weight. It's all here - dramatic styling, easy hookup and adjustments, excellent audio quality and QSC reliability. QSC GX5 Features Power levels matched to the most popular speakers used by entertainers Optimized for maximum real-world headroom into 4 Ohm and 8 Ohm speaker systems Inputs: XLR, 1/4-inch TRS and phono input connectors for compatibility with any source Outputs: Speakon combo accepts, 1/4-inch (TS) plugs or Speakon 2-pole and 4-pole plugs (connects 2 poles only). Binding posts support all other speaker wiring systems. Minimum depth chassis (10.1 inches/257 mm) fits in compact, inexpensive effects racks Lightweight - less than 26 lbs (12.5 kg) Detented gain controls for precise settingand matching of sensitivity GuardRail automatically protects the amplifier and loudspeakers from damage due to temperature rise or overdrive without shutting down the show Front panel LEDs monitor Power, Signaland Clipping Subwoofer/Satellite crossover built-inGX Entertainer GX amplifiers deliver just the right amount of power to the most popular speakers used by entertainers. Most loudspeaker manufacturers recommend an amplifier with power output equal to the speaker's Program (Music) Power rating or two times (2 x) the Continuous (RMS) Power rating. The GX5 supplies maximum possible power to 4 ohm and 8 ohm loads. Owners of popular 4 ohm loudspeakers (dual-woofer, two-way models and many subwoofers) will find the 700 watt (4 ohm) power of the GX5 an ideal match. Technical Notes A true Class B biasing system combines maximum

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Behringer EurOlive F1220A High-Performance, Active 125-Watt Monitor Speaker System with 12 Woofer, 1 Compression Driver And Feedback Filter Review

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(More customer reviews)I've been a fan of Behringer products since 2004. My first experience with them was when I'd ordered a UB2222FXPro mixer in April of 2004 despite a dire warning from one of my well-intentioned, musician friends: "You know Behringer stuff is cheap. It's flimsy and won't last long." When pressed as to how he acquired his valuable insight, he paused a moment and said, "Well, that's what I read online." And yes, I've seen similar comments in online reviews of Behringer products; but I suspect that many of these bad reviews might actually be propaganda posted by competitors.
My band plays on the average of 4 to 5 nights a week; and my Behringer mixer has continued to work flawlessly for six years now. In fact in 2008, I purchased a 2nd Behringer mixer (Xenyx 2222FX) for backup. Besides these two mixers, I've acquired a plethora of other Behringer products: Pro-XL MDX 2600 (compressor/gate/expander/peak limiter,) 212A powered PA speaker; U-Control UCA202 USB-audio interface; Minimon Mon800 Stereo Monitor Matrix Mixer; CX2310 Super-X Pro Crossover; DR100 reverb pedal; Powerplay Pro-XL HA4700 (headphone amp;) Truth B2030A Active Studio Monitors; Tube Ultragain MIC200 (mic preamp); Vintager GM110 Combo Amp; DEQ2496 Ultracurve (speaker management/digital EQ) and a ECM8000 reference mic.
All the above units have done exactly what they're supposed to do - always surpassing my expectations and always priced way below their competitors' counterparts. Out of all these items I've only had two problems:
1) I had a "dead" channel on my 2nd mixer (Xenyx 2222FX), and that was quickly resolved by a replacement unit being sent out immediately by Musician's Friend.
2) My first DEQ2496 (digital EQ) suddenly failed after nearly 4 years of almost daily use. (It turned out that it was actually cheaper to simply buy another unit as opposed to repairing the original.)
I've prefaced this review of the Behringer F1220A Active Monitor Speaker with all the above background information to let the readers know of my prior experience with Behringer products - especially in regard to product reliability.
The F1220A is a sleek-looking unit, covered with tough, durable covering. The boxes are constructed to lie on their sides on the stage floor, angled up towards the performer. These enclosures can also be stand-mounted via an integrated 35 mm pole socket. On the front panel there are controls for: level; bass, mid-range and treble EQ; sweepable feedback filter with in/out switch; mic/line input (both XLR and 1/4") and a "link output" (both XLR and 1/4") for cascading additional powered units. This monitor features a 12" driver and a 1" high-frequency driver powered by 125 watts.
So, how does it sound? Incredible! Plenty of volume and quality. We had been using Mackie SRM350s for stage monitors; and now I have noted a fuller, warmer bottom end - much easier on the ears. (And I must admit my band members and I had been very satisfied with the Mackies; but I just had to try these Behringers. And now everybody's even happier!)
Besides the band, I do a solo gig every Wednesday. So out of curiosity, I tried the F1220A as a main. I pole-mounted it (a bit tricky for one person due to the location of the socket,) and it sounded great as a PA speaker! It handled the bass of the split keyboard and the drum unit as well as the vocal and backing tracks with plenty of power and quality. As far volume, this speaker is capable of much more than I would ever use for this mid-sized venue (approx 100 people) for my Wed night gig.
Back to the band, all the guys I work with have been very impressed with these monitors. They especially like being able to adjust the volume to their liking along with tailoring the EQ to their taste. And at least two of them, without prompting, have commented on the full, low end that these monitors provide.
This monitor has a sturdy, strap handle of the top. The unit can be a bit unwieldy when carried by the handle depending which "face" of the speaker is towards your leg. If you find the unit banging against your knee, just rotate it 180 degrees, and you'll be fine.
You'll want to keep your monitor safe while transporting it. Even though it does have a tough exterior, you might consider purchasing the Gator GPA-SCVR450-515 Speaker Covers. They run about $50 and fit these monitors pretty well. They even have a cutout for the monitor's strap handle. Or you can use the bag's own handles. They are a good investment to keep your F1220A in good shape.
My verdict? Another outstanding value from Behringer!

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High-Performance, Active 125-Watt Monitor Speaker System with 12" Woofer, 1" Compression Driver and Feedback Filter

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Ampeg SVT-410HE Classic Series 4x10 Bass Enclosure Review

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(More customer reviews)Just finished an outdoor gig with my new Ampeg SVT410HE extension speaker. I used it with my Fender Pro 400 bass amp and I am very pleased. Super lows and clear crisp trebles. The overall speker config. was six tens. Great volume with no distortion even playing notes up and down the E string. Very exciting! My guitar is the Fender Jazz Bass with the battery powered pickup. For me, an unbeatable combination!!

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The Classic Series is all about the Ampeg SVT. We pioneered Super-Valve Technology in the 1960s and continue to offer the ultimate, top-performance gear to the world’s most demanding bassists.
Looking for a speaker cabinet to brighten up your bottom-heavy bass rig? Or, maybe you’ve recently downsized your transportation to save a few bucks on fuel, and no longer have room to haul your beloved SVT-810E to the gig. The SVT-410HE delivers superb full-range performance, all the way up to 18kHz-and it’ll fit in your new ride.
The Ampeg SVT-410HE is also the ideal enclosure for the player who wants to add extended upper register clarity to a system that already features ample low frequency performance. Just ask George Clinton-he uses an SVT-410E to round out the top-end of his killer, all-SVT stage setup.
Specifications:
LF Drivers: 4 x 10"
Voice Coil: 2"
Magnet Weight (each): 30 oz
HF Drivers: Horn/Driver
Voice Coil: 1"
Magnet Weight (each): 8 oz
RMS Power Handling: 500-Watts
Frequency Response (-3dB): 60Hz-18kHz
Usable Low Frequency (-10dB): 43Hz
Nominal Impedance: 8-Ohms
Sensitivity: 98dB
Maximum SPL: 122dB
Dimensions (W x H x D inches): 24 x 25 x 16
Weight: 91 Pounds

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Allen & Heath AH-ZED-14 14-Channel Mixer with USB Interface Review

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(More customer reviews)This is a board that you take out of the box, plug the USB in, and you are recording in minutes. The quality is amazing. You will be very happy you spent the extra money, ESPECIALLY for the USB portion. If you own a Mac, it is amazingly simple and trouble free. A great buy at any price for the small home studio.

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The new ZED-14 is a small format, USB-equipped stereo mixer for live and recording. The ZED-14 has a fantastic pedigree which comes from nearly 40 years of making mixing desks for the professional sound community. The audio circuitry is based on years of continual development and refinement and the performance of all the elements within the mixer is has been perfected to ensure the very best sound quality possible. This is a mixer for anyone, from entry-level to professionals, who appreciates fantastic sound, rugged build quality and imaginative feature sets. It'll be equally happy running your gig on stage, recording live or mixing down in your studio at home. The feature-set is incredibly advanced for a mixer at this level – it has 13 independent sources to the mix, 10 independent outputs, 4 aux sends, a USB send & return for PC or Mac recording, playback and effects, a unique dual stereo input capability and some very advanced monitoring facilities. In fact, ZED-14 is so packed full of great features that you'd think it would cost much, much more! It can be used for many different tasks, whether in live performance, utilizing plug-in effects via USB, live recording via USB and Cakewalk, studio recording or mixing down to produce your own 2-track recordings. What about the sound quality? Our chief designer, Mike Griffin, has been at the forefront of audio innovation for many years and has developed the designs for our spectacularly successful MixWizard and GL series professional live mixers. Mike is always striving to produce the best possible sound for our mixers, and for ZED has produced the ‘DuoPre', a mic preamplifier which sounds as sweet as a nut, as pure as the driven snow. The DuoPre combines an optimized line input circuit together with the microphone preamp circuit so that it will not color or distort your sound, will give you lots of headroom, and give you a truly professional feel.

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