TURNTABLE LAB

Apogee
Duet Firewire Audio Interface

OVERVIEW
Apogee's Duet is a Firewire interface that provides top notch, professional sound quality in an ultra-compact and portable unit. Capture records, record keyboards, instruments, or vocals, and control functions in any Core Audio compatible application effortlessly, intuitively and on the go with Duet.

FEATURES
Duet features two channels of professional-quality 24-bit/96kHz audio input and output for studio reference sound quality, Two balanced XLR inputs, with selectable 48V phantom power and up to 75dB of gain and two unbalanced high impedance instrument inputs for loud and clear recordings, one high-level stereo headphone output, and two unbalanced -10 dBV line outputs for powered speakers. The multi-function controller knob allows you to manage of all your I/O functions while the multi-segment LED's display input and output levels so you can always keep the sound in check visually. In addition, the Duet's control functions built directly into Apple’s Logic Pro, Soundtrack Pro and GarageBand, and is also compatible with any Core Audio-compliant application. Includes firewire cable, breakout cable with all connections, and Apogee’s Maestro software for advanced control and low latency mixing.

OUR OPINION
Apogee built its name on sound quality and this little gadget features the same big sound and high quality converters they are famous for. If you need rich, pro sound recordings, and the ability to take it on the road, the Duet is definitely a top choice. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital

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Audio-Technica
AT-LP2D USB Turntable (w/ Recording Software)

OVERVIEW
The AT-LP2D USB Turntable improves upon our bestselling AT-PL50 and AT-LP2Da turntables by replacing the RCA output with a USB port for direct connectivity to your MAC or PC. This means super easy vinyl-to-digital conversions without the need for a costly interface or flimsy adapter cables. No interface necessary!

FEATURES
The AT-LP2D comes with everything you need to get started, right out of the box. You get the USB turntable with built-in pre-amp and cartridge, Pyro recording software for PC and Audacity recording software for Mac so you can create MP3s, WAVs, WMAs, and burn CDs from your vinyl. The PYRO Software also remove clicks, pops, and crackles from noisy, old LPs with DeClicker.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
basic - turntables / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / lab recommended - turntables / vinyl to digital - turntables / and more

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Digidesign
Mbox 2

OVERVIEW
The new MBox 2 is the updated version of the most popular Pro Tools solution. It includes both the newly designed MBox 2 interface and the industry standard Pro Tools LE production program.

NEW FEATURES IN VERSION 2
Improved Sound: Digidesign has improved the already excellent sound of the original Mbox by replacing the high quality Focusrite mix preamps with new Digidesign preamps. Also Digidesign has also included new digital and analog converters with better fidelity.

New Interface Design: The Mbox 2 interface can be positioned horizontally or vertically for easy placement. Mbox 2 comes with two faceplates, which are easily swapped using the included hex wrench. One faceplate features a large handle that makes the unit easily portable. The second faceplate, which offers a rubberized grip, allows Mbox 2 to sit flat on a desktop and reduces the space required when the unit is packed for traveling.

More Simultaneous Inputs: 2 analog / 2 digital simultaneously.

New MIDI I/O: MBox 2 adds a very use MIDI input/output.

More Free Software: The Mbox already featured the most free plug-ins and software in its class. Version 2 adds the very powerful Pro Tools Ignition Pack (click the manufacturer's link below for full list of contents)

FEATURES
Mbox 2 is a full-featured, USB-powered studio-in-a-box that works with your Window XP or Mac OS X. With a distinctive hardware interface that delivers exceptional sound quality, Mbox 2 works in conjunction with your computer and the included Pro Tools LE software to provide the creative power you need to achieve professional results. Complementing the hardware interface's analog, digital, and MIDI I/O, Pro Tools LE software offers 32 tracks of simultaneous recording and playback, 128 virtual tracks, 256 MIDI tracks, and a host of additional features. As with all Pro Tools LE systems, Mbox 2 also ships with the Pro Tools Ignition Pack™ —an array of added composition and production tools to extend the power of your system.

OUR OPINION
The MBox Pro Tools solution is always the first Production suite we recommend. In the interface, you get a professional quality component with high quality inputs and mic pre-amp for top-level recording. With its new portable design, it's ideal for your home and mobile setup. As for the software, Pro Tools is simply the industry standard. The LE version offered here features everything you need to record, create, and finish a track; all within, the time-tested Pro Tools environment. If you need more options, Pro Tools has the most third party plug-ins and software enhancements available of all the production programs. And when you want to take your productions to the next level, your tracks will be compatible with any Pro Tools enable studio.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital

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Digidesign
MBox 2 Mini

OVERVIEW
The MBox 2 Mini is Digidesign's smallest, most affordable Pro Tools LE solution. You get a high quality Digidesign interface, Pro Tools LE software, and extra-bundled software, all for under $300; this is clearly an excellent value for both the beginner and experienced producer.

FEATURES
The MBox Mini features the same high-quality audio components that make the MBox the industry standard interface. It features professional quality sound up to 24-bit/48kHz.

The other major feature is the inclusion of the industry standard Pro Tools LE software and all the bundled software. Pro Tools is an easy to learn, powerful program; and your tracks will work with any Pro Tools studio when you are ready to master or go into the studio. Bundled software includes: Xpand Sample Workstation (1000 professional sounds), world famous Bomb Factory plug-ins, Pro Tools Ignition Pack (which includes an instructional DVD, Ableton Live Lite 4, Reason Adapted 3, and much more), and over (30) DigiRack plug-ins!

The price difference between higher priced MBox models is primarily reflected in the number of inputs and outputs. The MBox Mini features (2) 1/4" inputs, (1) XLR mic input, and (2) 1/4" outputs. It does not feature MIDI I/O or SPDIF I/O, the only two major omissions (for MIDI I/O, try one of M-Audio's solutions).

OUR OPINION
As stated before, the MBox 2 Mini is an excellent value. The price makes this accessible to Pro Tool novices, as well as Pro Tools experts that need a portable solution. In our book, Digidesign easily gives you over $300 worth of software; it's like getting the interface for free.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital

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Edirol
FA-66 FireWire Interface

OVERVIEW
The Edirol FA-66 is a smart, mid-priced Firewire/MIDI interface. And like its USB-cousin the UA-25, it will work as an ideal hub for your home/mobile studio. With some of the best technical specs of any interface in this price range and the speed of a Firewire connection, the FA-66 is an obvious choice for those who wish to upgrade from an entry-level interface.

USES
- audio recording & playback
- MIDI recording & playback
- MIDI input & output
- vinyl to digital transfers

FEATURES
The most obvious features of the FA-66 are its compact size and the durable metal casing (which not only protects the unit from road wear, but also shields out audio interference). For those who demand high quality audio, the FA-66 offers premium level sound with powerful analog electronics, quality digital converters, and numerous inputs and outputs including balanced 1/4" outs. Edirol (and its parent company Roland) make products that are clearly built to higher standards than entry level competitors, and this particular model is an obvious choice in the midprice range for interfaces. Additional features include:

Two High Quality Mic Preamps: Includes a pair of high quality microphone preamps using premium analog components. It provides a clean recording environment to give a perfect microphone recording.

Built-in Analog Limiter: Reduce sudden overloaded sounds or popping noises in your recordings.

Wide Variety of I/O Ports: A pair of Neutrix XLR/TRS combo jacks with Phantom power, (4) 1/4" outputs, (2) RCA inputs, S/P DIF optical I/O ports and MIDI IN/OUT ports.

Zero Latency, Direct Monitoring: The FA-66 provides ultra low latency with maximum performance from popular music software, such as Sonar, Logic and Cubase. You can control Direct Monitoring from the front panel. Ideal for soft synths controlled from MIDI devices.

OUR OPINION:
If your sonic needs take you beyond the scope of entry-level interfaces and you want the power and convenience of Firewire, the Edirol FA-66 is the first model you should consider. Like its USB cousin the UA-25, the FA-66 and all its advanced home studio features (premium sound, mic pre-amp, balanced outs, limiter) and portable features (metal casing, Firewire powered), make it one of the most versatile interfaces we carry.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital

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Freeverse
SoundStudio3 Recording Software

Soundstudio 3 is a simple and effective audio editing program exclusively for Mac users. Soundstudio allows you to record, edit, and add effects to your audio in pro quality 24-bit/96kHz stereo (or mono) with ease. Record from any sound input (cd, tape, vinyl, etc), do podcasts, add voiceovers and even remove pops and clicks from your old vinyl or add cue points for albums and mixes. The beauty of this program is its intuitive interface and incredibly easy to use. It isn't cluttered with icons and buttons that you will hardly use, it is clean and simple and straight to the point with only the essential information displayed. This doesn't mean it cannot handle more complex tasks however. Soundstudio features powerful mastering, cleaning and multitracking functions as well as a nice selection of professional quality effects. Effects included are: compressor, expander, noise gate, graphic EQ, low-pass/high-pass filter, delay, flanger, reverb, echo, and more. Advanced users can also benefit from automatic recording start/stop based on timers or audio levels and Applescript and Automator support. Requires Mac OS X 10.4 or later.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital

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Gemini
IKey PLUS Portable USB Recorder

OVERVIEW
This is the upgraded version of Gemini's popular IKey portable recorder. The IKey can record any line-out audio source onto a USB hard drive, flash drive, or even an Apple iPod, all in real-time. This Plus version offers several impressive enhancements from the basic Ikey including: upgraded sound quality options (up to 320 kbps MP3 and WAV), a built-in phono pre-amp for recording directly from a turntable, a new mic input with included stereo mic, a VU meter display for monitoring recording levels, and a headphone output for monitoring.

HOW IT WORKS
The Ikey works without any software. Simply plug in your audio source (mixer, turntable, mic, guitar) into the RCA or mic input, then plug in your hard drive, flash drive, or iPod into the USB output. Press record and the Ikey is activated. If you are recording into your iPod, the resulting audio file will appear as a song in your song list. Recording options include sound quality selector (MP3 128, 192, 256, 320 kbps or WAV), a recording level control, and a line / phone / mic input selector.

The Ikey Plus is completely portable weighing approximately 2 lbs. and measuring approximately 5.5" x 1" x 3.25". It is powered by either (4) AA batteries (not included) or the included power supply.

OUR OPINION
The Ikey is a powerful, portable device for recording DJ sets, samples, and instrument sketches. With its enhanced sound quality, it rivals any portable recorder on the market. It does not include an internal hard drive or playback options, but this is reflected in the very affordable price. The IKey is especially recommended for use with an iPod, which allows for instant playback.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital

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Griffin
iMic USB Audio Interface + Recording Software (Mac + PC)

The iMic is a USB audio adapter that lets Mac and PC users add stereo input and output to USB computers even if they lack audio-in or -out ports. Connect your mic, turntable, tape deck, mixer, or anything with a line out to any computer with a USB port. iMic supports both mic and line level inputs via a selectable switch, and provides a line-level output for connecting speakers or headphones. Use this as an affordable interface to record your records, mixes and tapes directly into your computer simply and easily. he included CD-ROM provides all the software you need: for Mac users, Final Vinyl (with advanced features such as waveform-based cue editing and 10-band EQ, including a special RIAA filter that properly equalizes LPs without having to connect your turntable to a pre-amp); and, for PC users, the popular open-source, full-featured recording application, Audacity. The iMic package also includes a special stereo audio cable with a ground connector, to prevent hum or line noise when recording directly from a turntable. It's everything you need to become home-recording-ready, in one package. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital

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ION
ION TTUSB Turntable (w/ Recording Software)

OVERVIEW
Ion's TTUSB turntable is a simple and affordable all-in-one vinyl to digital turntable. It is modeled after Numark's TTUSB (minus the pitch shift) and includes software for both Mac and PC to make digitizing your vinyl very easy. It also includes Audacity software for more advanced editing.

FEATURES
The Ion TTUSB is a belt-driven turntable with USB connectivity. Simply plug and play into your Mac or PC with no drivers needed. The turntable features 33 1/3 and 45 RPM play, adjustable anti-skate control for increased stereo balancing, switchable phono/line level RCA outputs, and a handy 1/8" stereo line input (for connecting and digitizing cassettes and other sources). The included EZ Vinyl Converter 2 for PC (EZVC2) and EZ Audio Converter for Mac (EZAC) makes recording and transferring vinyl directly to iTunes extremely easy. Also included is the Audacity software for more advanced audio editing and recording of 78 RPM LPs.

OUR OPINION
This USB turntable package is perfect for anyone looking to capture their vinyl into digital format. The 1/8" input makes this a great value since you can record from other sources (cassettes,etc) as well. Full-sized, pro turntable design is a plus too (though mixing is not recommended due to lack of pitch control).

reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
basic - turntables / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital - turntables / vinyl to digital / and more

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ION
iPTUSB Portable USB Turntable

OVERVIEW
iPTUSB is Numark's popular PT01 turntable with an added USB output, plus the EZ Vinyl Converter software for recording vinyl into your computer. In addition, the iPTUSB includes Audacity Software for editing your recorded tracks with the ability to remove clicks and pops, etc.

FEATURES
The iPTUSB is highly portable with many features designed with the DJ / collector in mind. Firstly, the iPTUSB includes both a built-in speaker and a line-level (connect to your stereo) and headphone outputs. For easy transportation, the iPTUSB features a locking cover and carrying handle. and is designed to fit into most 12" record bags and DJ crates. The iPTUSB operates on either (6) D batteries or an included AC adaptor.
reviewed by mgmnt

file under:
basic - turntables / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / portable - turntables / vinyl to digital - turntables / and more

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ION
U-Record USB Audio Interface w/ Audacity Recording Software

OVERVIEW
The U-Record is an easy to use USB interface from ION. Simply connect your turntable, tape player or other audio sources to your computer with this USB interface (with pre-amp) and record them into digital format with included recording software. One of the most simple and affordable interfaces available.

FEATURES
The U-Record features simple plug and play operation (PC and Mac) so you can start recording into digital formats right away. It uses one RCA phono/line input for connecting your turntable, tape player, or other audio device, ground (for turntables) and features a built-in pre-amp (no need to go through a stereo system - connect direct to the U-Record). Also included is the easy to use EZ Vinyl Converter (PC) and EZ Audio Converter (Mac) software that automatically imports the music directly to your iTunes library, and Audacity software (PC/Mac) for more advanced audio editing and reduction of clicks, pops, hiss and other noises from worn recordings.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital

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M-Audio
Fast Track Pro USB Interface

The Fast Track Pro USB Interface gives you mobile recording flexibility with professional recording features. It features 2 front-panel mic/line inputs complete with phantom power for condenser microphones, inserts for outboard effects balanced and unbalanced analog outputs, S/PDIF digital I/O, MIDI I/O, and more.

Fast Track Pro also features near-zero latency direct hardware monitoring and low-latency ASIO software monitoring, plus an A/B source switch and dual output pairs for DJ-style cueing. It is compatible with most popular PC and Mac music software including Pro Tools M-Powered. USB connection (or optional DC adaptor) make it a snap to set up. Compatible with both PC and Mac.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital

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M-Audio
Fast Track Ultra USB Interface

OVERVIEW
The Fast Track Ultra 8 x 8 audio/MIDI interface takes M-Audio’s acclaimed mobile recording line to the next level with high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity, MX Core DSP mixer and four preamps with award-winning Octane technology. Featuring both analog and digital I/O, it allows recording on all eight channels simultaneously with 24-bit/96kHz fidelityâ€"while M-Audio’s mature low-latency drivers ensure rock-solid stability and performance. The on-board MX Core DSP mixer processes eight hardware inputs and eight software returns to the eight hardware outputs, delivering flexible routing and monitoring with delay and reverb. Compatible with most major audio software, Fast Track Ultra lets you record the way you wantâ€"in the studio or on the go.

TOP FEATURES
high-speed USB 2.0 interface > simultaneous 8 x 8 24-bit/96kHz audio

MX Core DSP technology > flexible channel routing, monitor sub-mixing and effects processing

4 preamps with award-winning M-Audio Octane technology > premium input circuitry

compatible with Mac and PC > works with most audio production software
reviewed by mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital

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M-Audio
Firewire Solo Interface

OVERVIEW
The Firewire Solo is an affordable interface which in addition to standard 1/4" and digital inputs & outputs, also boasts separate microphone and guitar inputs. This flexibility allows you to perform standard interface functions (recording, sampling, inputting DJ setup to computer, outputting sound to speakers and headphones), as well as recording directly from mics and guitars. The Solo is an excellent choice for producers/songwriters who want Firewire performance and the added flexibility of several input options, all in one very portable package.

FEATURES
The Solo's Firewire offers zero-latency connection to your computer at the studio standard 24-bit/96kHz. In addition, the Solo is bus-powered through the Firewire, eliminating the need for a power cord.

Inputs: The mic input is an XLR port with phantom power, independent gain control and clip meter. The guitar input is a standard 1/4" input also with independent gain control and clip meter. The back of the Solo features a S/PDIF digital input/output and standard unbalanced 1/4" inputs.

Outputs: A headphone output with independent level control is also included on the front panel, which is essential for mobile producers who don't have access to monitors. Additional outputs include dual Firewire outs for daisy-chaining, balanced 1/4 line outputs, and S/PDIF digital output.

OUR OPINION
The Firewire Solo fills several needs. For those who will utilise the mic and/or guitar into their productions, the Firewire Solo is an excellent all-in-one solution. For those who want an affordable Firewire interface, the Firewire Solo is one of the best (and only) at this price-point. And finally, for those who want to use this as their primary portable interface, the metal construction, price and the ability to capture vocals makes this an excellent travel piece.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital

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M-Audio
ProFire 610 Firewire Interface

OVERVIEW
The ProFire 610 FireWire audio/MIDI interface transforms your Mac or PC into a powerful 6-in/10-out recording studio. Premium digital converters deliver high-definition, 24-bit/192kHz audio throughout the signal path. Two preamps with award-winning Octane technology offer clean, transparent sound with low noise and exceptional headroom. Onboard DSP mixing provides a totally flexible recording experienceâ€"perfect for creating multiple, independent monitor mixes. The user-assignable master volume knob gives you flexible control over output levels. MIDI I/O allows you to connect keyboards and other outboard MIDI hardware. The half-rack-space unit also doubles as a standalone two-channel microphone preamp and A/D-D/A converter and is compatible with most major audio software.

USES
- high def recording and output
- plug-in recording with pre-amps
- excellent for laptop/mobile use

FEATURES
High definition sound: The ProFire 610 delivers solid performance and reliability at sample rates up to 24-bit/192kHz. Using premium A/D-D/A converters, the Profire 610 keeps your audio signal uncolored and true to any input source.

Two preamps with award-winning Octane technology: ProFire 610 brings you the same award-winning M-Audio Octane preamp technology that audio professionals trust for clean, transparent sound. Each preamp delivers low distortion and an extremely high signal-to-noise ratioâ€"providing pristine audio fidelity right from the start of your signal path. In addition to exceptional sound, each preamp has a generous 73dB gain range, 20dB pad and 48V phantom power.

Onboard DSP Mixer: This gives you an extra level of flexibility and improving the overall performance of your system. Use the software control panel to create custom configurations for different recording setups, then save the settings and instantly recall them later. You can set up five unique stereo mixes sourced from any of the hardware inputs and software returns simultaneouslyâ€"ideal for assigning separate monitor mixes to multiple musicians. The onboard DSP mixer also enables you to monitor while tracking, just as you would with a hardware mixer.

Standalone Operation: ProFire 610 also functions in standalone mode, allowing you to use its premium preamplifiers without connecting to a computer.

User-Assignable Master Volume Control: The master volume knob can be assigned to attenuate all output pairs simultaneouslyâ€"ideal for controlling a 7.1 surround mix.

Portable Design: The Profire 610 features pro quality functionality (Octane preamp technology, DSP mixing and 24-bit/192kHz audio resolution) in a bus-powered unit perfect for recording on the go.

reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital

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M-Audio
Transit USB Interface

OVERVIEW
Small enough to fit in your pocket, Transit brings hi-resolution 24-bit/96kHz recording and playback to any USB-compatible computer. In simple terms, this card upgrades your computer's soundcard to studio quality both for input and output. For further ease, the Transit is USB powered.

USES
- audio recording & playback
- vinyl to digital transfers

FEATURES
The Transit comes equipped with both stereo 1/8" analog IN and OUT, as well as an optical digital IN. With a couple adaptors, you can record most sources (we wouldn't recommend mic use) with studio quality 24-bit/96kHz sound. And for discerning ears, the Transit can boost up your computer's sound card, increasing output sound quality and loudness.

OUR OPINION
The simplicity of this product is the main strength of this model. Priced under $80, just think of it as a useful adaptor. Throw it in your studio bag, use it to record on the fly, convert audio, or listen to iTunes or DVD player with improved sound.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital

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Numark
PT01 Portable USB Turntable

Now with USB for easy recording of vinyl to WAV or MP3 directly into your computer! For anyone who collects or buys vinyl regularly, the uses of a portable turntable are obvious- listen to records before you buy, and play them anywhere. It's a good deal all around. The Numark PT 01 follows the basic principles that brought us the Vestax Handy Trax and improves upon those features in quite a few areas. Like the Vestax, this turntable has many features which older portables lack: play speeds of 33, 45 & 78 rpm, dual RCA outputs, hi/low tone control, pitch control, the ability to run on battery or included power plug, and now USB connectivity. The basics are down solid, and improvements are made in key "aesthetic" areas that make the PT 01 even more convenient. Most importantly, the PT 01 is a more utilitarian shape than the Handy Trax- not quite as sexy, but at 12" in its case, this will fit inside a record crate or bag quite easily. Another nice touch is the fact that the little platter has a slipmat on it. In addition, there are raised felt pads on the player's surface to keep 12" records from getting scratched. The other main improvement is the inclusion of both 3.5mm and 1/8" headphone inputs. A high quality portable and a great value especially with the ability to record to computer via USB (with included software for MAC and PC).
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / portable - turntables / vinyl to digital - turntables / vinyl to digital / and more

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Numark
TTi USB Turntable

OVERVIEW
The TTi USB combines Numark performance, USB connectivity and direct-to-iPod recording all in one easy-to-use turntable unit. The USB turntable features a built-in universal dock for easy transfer of vinyl to your iPod, as well as line-level RCA outs with built-in phono pre-amp to connect to a mixer and record to analog sources, and a USB out for recording to your Mac or PC with included software.

FEATURES
The TTi USB features a built-in universal dock for direct vinyl recording to your iPod video (5th gen) and/or iPod nano (2nd gen). It also records with any docking iPod when used through iTunes and connects via USB to your MAC or PC for direct digital recording with included software - no drivers or interfaces required! Line level RCA outs allow for connecting to mixers, recievers, etc. while turntable itself features belt drive performance with +/-10% pitch control and 33/45 RPM playback (78 RPM recording is possible with bundled software). Included are the EZ Vinyl Converter software (PC) and EZ Audio Converter (Mac) for hassle-free recording, as well as Audacity recording (PC and Mac) software to reduce vinyl noise and pops.

OUR OPINION
The TTi USB gives you all the options you can possibly need to get your vinyl to digital format. With the option of direct to iPod recording, computer recording, and analog recording (via RCA outs), the TTi sets itself apart as one of the most versatile and easy to use vinyl-to-digital solutions. Add to this the bundled software and the +/-10% pitch control and you've got a turntable that is ideal for all levels of DJs and vinyl enthusiasts alike.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
basic - turntables / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital - turntables / vinyl to digital / and more

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Numark
TTX-USB Turntable

OVERVIEW
This is the improved USB version of the Numark TTX turntable. The impressive features of the TTX are now paired with the ability to digitize your vinyl without the need for an audio interface via USB plug and play compatibility for both Mac and Windows PCs at no extra cost. Includes all necessary cables as well as software for removing clicks and pops.

FEATURES
As a pro turntable, the TTX is a very viable option to the classic 1200. This turntable will function like a 1200 in basic features, but also adds many new digital features and improvements. It's evident that Numark had turntablists in mind when designing this turntable, but most of the features come in handy for non-turntablist DJs as well. For starters, it includes both a straight arm and s-shaped tonearm. Some would argue the straight arm is better for scratching (more skip resistant), whereas the classic S-Shaped tonearm is better for mixing. The pitch control (+/- 10, 20 and 50% selectable pitch ranges with key (chord) control) is movable and can be rotated for battle or regular position. The digital display features vital BPM and RPM information (plays 33 / 45 / 78 and reverse) and all the connections are detachable (power, RCA, and ground wire). The construction is as solid as the 1200, weighs more than the 1200, and features a similar steel top and rubber base construction. Add the USB connectivity and you can safely say Numark has covered all the bases.

OUR OPINION
Like all the other turntables that have come along over the years trying to compete with the Technics 1200, we were initially skeptical about the performance of the TTX, which has been hailed by many as the next step. But after inspection and testing, we must first applaud Numark for their vast improvements in product quality. The TTX-1 is leaps and bounds beyond the sub-par quality that they had become notorious years back. That being said, the TTX-1 is quite impressive. Beyond the list of new features and improvements (see below), it is solidly built (even heavier than a 1200) with an extremely strong motor (stronger torque than 1200), great start-up time and accurate pitch control. With the addition of USB connectivity (which eliminates the need for an audio interface when digitizing vinyl), Numark has included a very necessary tool for today's DJ.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
high-end - turntables / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital - turntables / vinyl to digital / and more

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Ortofon
Arkiv (Recording) Concorde Cartridge Set

The Arkiv cartridge is the first Ortofon cart specifically design to provide optimized sound quality specifically for the recording process. Featuring an output of 6mV and an elliptical stylus for extended high frequency response, the Arkiv boasts clear and accurate sound reproduction and remarkable stereo imaging making it an excellent choice for any recording situation (capturing your vinyl to digital format, sampling, etc.). Scratching and back cueing is not recommended with this cartridge. Set includes one extra stylus (which offsets your initial cost).
reviewed by mgmnt

file under:
ortofon - cartridges / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / dj cartridges / listening + recording cartridges / and more

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Ortofon
Arkiv (Recording) OM Cartridge

Headshell mountable OM version. The Arkiv cartridge is the first Ortofon cart specifically design to provide optimized sound quality specifically for the recording process. Featuring an output of 6mV and an elliptical stylus for extended high frequency response, the Arkiv boasts clear and accurate sound reproduction and remarkable stereo imaging making it an excellent choice for any recording situation (capturing your vinyl to digital format, sampling, etc.). Scratching and back cueing is not recommended with this cartridge. Set includes one extra stylus (which offsets your initial cost).
reviewed by mgmnt

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ortofon - cartridges / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / dj cartridges / listening + recording cartridges / and more

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Shure
M97xE Cartridge

Long before Shure became recognized for their exceptional DJ cartridges, their phono reputation was built on audiophile cartridges. Their top of the line, the V15VxMR is world famous for its extremely accurate sound reproduction and standout, ultra low record wear. That model costs about $350. For people demanding a high quality audio cartridge for either listening or recording, the M97xE offers many of the same qualities at much more manageable price. This cartridge offers accurate reproduction that can't be found in dj cartridges, particularly in the high frequency range, precise tracking ability (much lower record wear than a dj cartridge) and a flat frequency response. It also features a "dynamic stabilizer," which maintains a uniform distance between the cartridge and the record under difficult playing conditions, such as those caused by warped records, or mismatched tonearm mass. Just to be clear, the M97xE is recommended for listening or recording/sampling purposes only, it is not designed or recommended for dj use.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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shure - cartridges / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / dj cartridges / listening + recording cartridges / and more

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Shure
Whitelabel Cartridge

OVERVIEW
Shure's entry into the concorde-style cartridge market. This is the first real competition we've seen to the dominant Ortofon line. The White Label is aimed specifically at today's hybrid club deejays, combining the high grade sound quality demanded for club use with Shure's legendary scratch ability and low record wear. From our testing, we've found that the sound quality is comparable to the Ortofon DJ (blue)cartridge, with an output at 6.0mV, great skip resistance, and a low tracking force for minimal record wear. The white label also makes several new improvements over other concorde-style cartridges. It is the first concord-style cartridge that allows you to adjust stylus overhang (useful for setting up on different turntables), and according to Shure, they have also developed a reliable electrical connection for the part that plugs into your tonearm. This should eliminate the eventual poor connection that may occurs with other concorde-style cartridges. For straight scratching, the M447 is still number one in terms of skip resistance, but the White Label is an excellent combination of club sound quality and scratch ability.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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shure - cartridges / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / bestsellers - cartridges / dj cartridges / and more

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Stanton
T.90 USB Turntable (w/ Recording Software)

OVERVIEW
The T.90 is Stanton's first entry into the ever-growing USB turntable market. It is a direct drive turntable with USB connectivity for under $300. Digitize your vinyl without the need for an interface or mix and scratch with great pick up and platter response. Includes cartridge, slipmat, and all necessary cables as well as editing software for digitizing your records.


FEATURES
The T.90 turntable features a quality, high-torque direct drive motor with +/- 8% or 12% pitch range in Stanton's unique styled body. The direct drive motor coupled with the S-shaped tone arm provides much better response, pick up and tracking than belt drive turntables allowing for better performance while mixing and scratching. The T.90 also features USB connectivty, an important feature in todays age of digital DJing. Simply connect to your computer to digitize your records into audio files for your Digital DJ system or your iPod. Comes with everything you need to get started - cartridge, slipmat, cloth dust cover, and Cakewalk Pyro sound editing program.


OUR OPINION
If you need a basic, direct drive turntable with USB capabilities - this is it. The T.90 is much better for dj performance than some of the more budget belt drive USB tables we sell, and it doesn't have any extraneous features you might not use like some of it's higher priced competitors. It is a great all in one solution with everything you need already in the box for under $300.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
mid-range - turntables / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital - turntables / vinyl to digital / 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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