TURNTABLE LAB

Rane
TTM 57SL Mixer + Serato Scratch Live

high-end mixer integrated with Serato controls + interface

LAB POINTS
- full-featured, high end mixer with integrated Serato interface
- includes Serato Scratch Live software
- on-board programmable controls allow you to control Serato Scratch Live (SSL) program without using keyboard and mouse
- long lasting, non-contact magnetic faders
- free updates to newest versions of SSL
- gives you access SSL's powerful effects (other mixers can't access them)
- record your sets or (2) analog sources simultaneously (ie. ripping vinyl)


OUR OPINION
With the TTM-57, Rane has raised the bar for 2 channel mixers once again. This mixer is built on the platform of the TTM-56 (already the gold standard for 2 channel mixers), and features the Serato Live interface built-in. The obvious effect is that you no longer need the Serato hub and all its extra wires, but more importantly, you can control the Serato program directly from the mixer with a new set of programmable controls. These controls open up new avenues for live mixing, letting you access songs, loops, and cue points faster and in the rhythm of mix (reducing the need for the laptop keyboard). In addition, the TTM-57 gives you full access to SSL's locked functions like effects and advanced video features (which are only available through select hardware models). On top of all that, as with all Rane products, you can be ensured of the highest quality across the board: durability, parts, sound quality, user friendliness, and customer service. Highly recommended.


MANUFACTURER's REVIEW
The TTM 57SL Performance Mixer integrates Serato Scratch Live with the best of Rane's hardware. Now you can control Scratch Live from your mixer without touching your laptop!

SCRATCH LIVE CONTROL SURFACE
Navigate through your library, load tracks, hit cues, loop and control effects all from the mixer's control panel.

FUTURE PROOF
The features and functionality of your mixer will improve with each new release of Scratch Live software â€" and all Scratch Live updates are free!

ADVANCED RECORDING
Record your mix directly to hard drive, or record two analog sources simultaneously.

EFFECTS
24-bit effects using Rane and Serato's award-winning studio and live sound software technologies, giving you professional studio-quality sound.

MAGNETIC FADERS
Rane's legendary patented magnetic faders are the fastest, most accurate, and longest-lasting on the planet.

EXTERNAL AUDIO INTERFACE
Use the TTM 57SL as a high-quality USB audio interface for your favorite Mac or PC software.

SIMULTANEOUSLY:
- Play a combination of digital and analog sources.
- Play up to two digital files controlled by vinyl or CD while recording your mix.&
- Or, digitize two vinyl records or analog sources simultaneously.
- Cue analog and digital sources.
- Operate standalone as a no-compromise performance mixer.

Scratch Live has special abilities only available with the TTM 57SL
Two Digital Effects Processors are installed in the TTM 57SL mixer instead of the software so they are available even when Scratch Live is not running. Effects may be synced to BPM and include echo, sweeping filters, phasing and flanging. The "soft" section of controls has multiple functions for controlling Scratch Live from the matched physical controls on the TTM 57SL. They also assign the Internal Digital Effects when the mixer is operated stand-alone without a computer. Six different preset groups optimize common controls for playback, cue/looping, effects, recording and library. You can customize any control or assign to MIDI with a right-click. Footswitch controls are mapped here as well.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
rane - mixers / all - digital djing / high-end - mixers / lab recommended - mixers / and more

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Rane
TTM 56S Mixer

lab recommended mixer for all-types of djs

LAB POINTS
- Lab highest recommendation
- versatile mixer for all types of DJing
- super-solid construction
- high quality, smooth, non-contact faders
- powerful 3 band EQ
- 4 inputs
- excellent sound quality
- top notch, Rane customer support and service


OUR OPINION
This is the first mixer we usually recommend to our customers. The main strength of the TTM 56s is the quality of the construction and components. It is very rare that our customers report problems with this mixer, and in the rare case they do, Rane is excellent with warranty service repairs. We've had a 56 at our New York store DJ booth for over 5 years and it still works perfectly (and it gets heavy daily use). Secondly, the functionality is excellent. Rane's non-contact fader is one, if not the best, on the market; and the accelerated slope EQs are powerful and great for mixing. Like the Technics 1200, the Rane TTM 56s is a trusted DJ staple and will last you for years. Highly recommended.


TTM56 TO TTM56S IMPROVEMENTS
- universal internal power supply works anywhere in the world (100-240 VAC)
- all four inputs are now Phono/Line switchable, now letting you plug in 4 turntables or 4 CD players, or any combination
- both 1/4" and 3.5 mm headphone jacks
- transform switches are now kill switches
- operation is simplified by putting all the controls you need on top, and increasing the width by one inch


MANUFACTURER's REVIEW
Rane takes performance mixer design as seriously as performing DJs take their art form. The TTM 56S is flexible, durable, and feature packed. The audio quality of the TTM 56S qualifies it for use in the most demanding live venue, recording studio or live broadcast applications. Non-Contact Magnetic Crossfader and Channel Faders: These magnetic faders know exactly what your hand is doing! A proprietary curve-translation module converts your hand motion into precise audio level control. Each of the Crossfader and Channel Fader controls include a Reverse switch and an independent continuously adjustable Contour control, adjusting from a smooth blend to extremely fast cut. Post-Fader FlexFx: Rane’s proprietary FlexFx effects loop switches route Program 1 and/or Program 2 to the effects loop. A Wet/Dry pan control gives the user total control of how much processed signal is in the mix. The effects loop is post-fader, so reverb and other delay effects respond to both Channel Faders and Crossfader without cutting off tails.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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rane - mixers / high-end - mixers / lab recommended - mixers / all mixers / and more

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Vestax
VMC-002XLu USB Mixer - Black

OVERVIEW
The VMC-002XLu is the upgraded version of the popular (and now discontinued) VMC-002XL mixer. This new version gets a sleek black finish and adds a USB port for easy connectivity to your computer. It features a simple, durable 2 channel design, upgradable crossfader, and XLR outputs that get you professional level connectivity at a very inexpensive price.

FEATURES
The VMC-002XLu is your basic entry level, 2 channel mixer, beefed up in terms of sound quality and durability and now the addition of a USB port. The USB port is a great since you can bypass the need for an interface and record vinyl or mixes directly into your computer (recording software needed). It has 2 phono and 2 line inputs (channel 1 and channel 2), plus 1 microphone input with volume control. Each channel has trim adjustment and 3 band EQs that go from completely off (kill) to +6dB. The crossfader is an ALPS fader (upgradeable to the CF-PCV) with a curve control switch on the front panel for "soft" or "sharp" crossfading. It also has a master/cue mix knob so you can practice in the headphones. As mentioned before, one of the main attractions of this mixer is the option for professional XLR outputs, which allow you to send a higher quality signal to any piece of equipment. The VMC-002XL also offers a standard RCA out, which you could use for your "record" out.

OPINION
The VMC-002XL gives you excellent mid-level quality and features at a very economical price. It's an ideal choice for most non-club situations (home and small studio), and with it's three band EQs and XLR outs could even be used in a club if you were in a pinch. It's compact size won't take up too much space, and it has all the necessary features for most dj's (and digital DJs now with the addition of a USB port)0. Scratch DJs will like possibility of upgrading to a PCV crossfader and there really isn't much more you can ask for at this price range.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vestax - mixers / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / basic - mixers / mid-range - mixers / and more

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Rane
Empath Mixer - Black

high end club dj mixer

OVERVIEW
Rane's answer to the multi-function dilemma. Their goal here was to create a club mixer flexible enough for any type of DJ, in any setting, without taking up a lot of space. After preliminary testing, Rane has achieved all those goals.

1) Keeping to the 10" format, Rane has made the most versatile mixer in this range. If you've used a conventional, wide format club mixer, then you will understand why this is such an advancement.

2) Works with any sound system, club and home, anywhere in the world. A universal, 100 to 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz internal power supply allows using the mixer anywhere in the world without adapters; XLR, TRS or RCA connections eliminates mismatching plugs; and there are even 2 headphone jacks to accommodate 1/8" and 1/4" plugs.

3) Sound. We stand by that Rane's have the best sound. And to ensure this quality Rane has included 2 key features:
1. Auto Gain feature automatically adjusts sound when switching sources. The sound will never be too quiet or clipped.
2. Full cut, accelerated slope EQs, the best available.
3. New Penny & Giles faders. All 4 faders are the P&G, quickly becoming the industry high-end standard.
4. Extras. The Empath features many innovations not found on other mixers:
a. Assignable CD triggers work with any CD player.
b. Two band headphone EQ.
c. Effects processors assignable to all 3 channels plus mic.
d. Four function Level meters read stereo cue, stereo master mix, split cue, or main output.

Verdict: Pluses
Sound quality, Rane construction, multiple features, simplicity of use. This is definitely the easiest, most intuitive 3 channel mixer we've tested. Although we have not tried this in a club system situation, based on Rane's track record, we can conclude that it is top of the line.

Verdict: Minuses
No true weaknesses. Price is high, but reasonable for a full featured club mixer. Battle DJs might find the face to be to cluttered.
reviewed by mgmnt

file under:
rane - mixers / high-end - mixers / lab recommended - mixers / all mixers / and more

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Rane
Empath Mixer - Blue



Rane's answer to the multi-function dilemma. Their goal here was to create a club mixer flexible enough for any type of DJ, in any setting, without taking up a lot of space. After preliminary testing, Rane has achieved all those goals.

1) Keeping to the 10" format, Rane has made the most versatile mixer in this range. If you've used a conventional, wide format club mixer, then you will understand why this is such an advancement.

2) Works with any sound system, club and home, anywhere in the world. A universal, 100 to 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz internal power supply allows using the mixer anywhere in the world without adapters; XLR, TRS or RCA connections eliminates mismatching plugs; and there are even 2 headphone jacks to accommodate 1/8" and 1/4" plugs.

3) Sound. We stand by that Rane's have the best sound. And to ensure this quality Rane has included 4 key features:

1. Auto Gain feature automatically adjusts sound when switching sources. The sound will never be too quiet or clipped.
2. Full cut, accelerated slope EQs, the best available.
3. New Penny & Giles faders. All 4 faders are the P&G, quickly becoming the industry high-end standard.
4. Extras. The Empath features many innovations not found on other mixers:

• Assignable CD triggers work with any CD player.
• Two band headphone EQ.
• Effects processors assignable to all 3 channels plus mic.
• Four function Level meters read stereo cue, stereo master mix, split cue, or main output.

Verdict: Pluses
Sound quality, Rane construction, multiple features, simplicity of use. This is definitely the easiest, most intuitive 3 channel mixer we've tested. Although we have not tried this in a club system situation, based on Rane's track record, we can conclude that it is top of the line.

Verdict: Minuses
No true weaknesses. Price is high, but reasonable for a full featured club mixer. Battle DJs might find the face to be to cluttered.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
rane - mixers / high-end - mixers / lab recommended - mixers / all mixers / and more

go to detail page | close window