TURNTABLE LAB

Numark
CDX CD Turntable

OVERVIEW
It's an established fact that CD technology is at a point where creating players that simulate vinyl djing is not a problem. We now have at least 4 different brands making CD players that can duplicate the vinyl experience with scary precision, so what sets them apart is their extra features and functionality. With the CDX, Numark has expanded your options with yet another unique entry into the CD turntable market. While other CD turntables have only mimicked the construction of a standard vinyl turntable, the CDX actually looks and feels exactly like one. The design of the CDX is based closely on that of Numark's popular TTX-1 turntable and features a real 12" record as the controlling surface. It's as close as you can get to using a standard turntable while playing a cd.

FEATURES
The construction of the CDX is truly its main attraction. The basic layout is very similar to their TTX turntable, about the same size, with the dual start/stop buttons on either side of the platter so you can position the turntable in standard or "battle" direction. The platter is the same height as a normal turntable and is run by a very high torque (5.0kg) direct drive motor, with adjustable controls for start and stop times. Slipmat included. You can also swap out the standard Numark 12" with any record of your choice. The pitch control has an impressive range of ±6, 12, 25 and 100%, accompanied by the necessary key lock (master tempo) feature that allows vocals to stay in key even when the tempo is dramatically increased. The CDX also features a fairly broad choice of internal effects (echo, kill, sonar, filter, etc) which you can control with a dedicated wheel, multiple play modes for different scratching effects, looping functions, and an internal memory capable of storing up to a very high 3000 cue points.

OUR OPINION
All roads of opinion on the Numark CDX have to come back to its design and feel. If you are looking for a CD player that functions like a vinyl turntable- and even looks & feels just like a vinyl turntable- this is your best option. The performance is more than satisfactory, with enough cd-player type functions to keep most of us interested. There may not be as many advanced functions on the CDX as other players in this market range, but Numark has nailed the ones that are most commonly used.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
cd turntables / dj equipment - sales + specials

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Numark
HDX-110 Tabletop CD/MP3 Player w/80GB Hard Drive

OVERVIEW
Modeled after Numark's successful CDX tabletop cd player, the HDX marks a new field of music players and controllers. The major difference between this machine and other digital media players is that it features its own on-board hard drive in addition to a CD drive. This hard drive and the on-board interface allow for features that are simply unavailable on any other media players at the moment. One of the big ones is the ability to record tracks or your dj set through the analog input- even while the HDX is engaged in playback.

FEATURES
The HDX's on-board hard drive is fairly substantial at 80GB, and upgradeable with any standard 2.5" hard drive. This not only allows you to store a large amount of files directly on your player, but also works with an on-board interface that opens up a wealth of options. To begin with, the hard drive can read / play MP3, WMA, WVA, Ogg Vorbis, and FLAC formats. You can rip songs from CDs directly in the unit or drag + drop from your computer via USB connection. The interface is particularly useful. It not only provides easy search and filing functions (playlists), but also comes equipped with Gracenote for automatically gathering track information such as artist, title, album, genre and even BPM. The HDX also includes support for connecting a keyboard (useful for both entering track information and searching), and they even go so far as to include a one for you. Another great advantage to having an on-board hard drive is the fact that you can record your dj sets or anything else through the analogue (RCA) input, even while you have the HDX engaged in playback.

In terms of actual functionality, Numark has already established that they can make a great vinyl-simulating digital player with the CDX. The HDX features much of the same design, with a real 12" record for the platter (user replaceable) that acts in exactly the same way as a standard vinyl turntable. The platter features a maxed out 4.7kg-cm torque, which not only makes it feel like a real turntable, but also makes your mixing and scratching that much tighter. The pitch control can be adjusted up to +/- 100% with key control so that it still sounds ok. You also get important digital controls like smart looping, cue markers, onboard effects, and an auto beatcounter that synchs up effects, loops and MIDI devices.

OUR OPINION
The HDX offers yet another option for playing and transporting your sound, and a very good one at that. If you aren't going to go the traditional vinyl plus Serato route (which seems to be the standard these days), this could be your best option. It is a great self contained machine that will suit some people extremely well, and it's probably the most efficient, user-friendly digital player on the market.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
cd turntables / dj equipment - sales + specials

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Pioneer
CDJ-1000MK3 CD Turntable

OVERVIEW
The upgrade to Pioneer's industry leading cd turntable. Pioneer has always led the way when it comes to cd turntables, introducing the first cd player that could truly emulate vinyl control with the CDJ-1000 and keeping it up to date with many improvements over the years. This latest model builds on the successful platform by tweaking the features and improving the layout and functions.

FEATURES
There are a few major differences between the CDJ-1000MK3 and the older MK2 (which has now been discontinued). These include:
- mp3 support
- adjustable resistance on the jog wheel
- improved jog wheel display
- improved main display to accommodate WAVE data
- "resume play" function
- new hot loop function
- capable of using both SD and MMC memory cards

The most important improvement is the ability to play mp3's. While the CDJ-1000MK3 doesn't offer a USB connection or any other way to hook up to your computer, it is now capable of playing all mp3 files burned onto CDs. The jog wheel itself is now adjustable, letting you change the resistance all the way from the loose feel of a CDJ-800 up to the stiffer feel of a first generation CDJ-1000. Another major improvement is with the unit's display features. On the jog wheel, the cue and angle markers have been enlarged for easier use, and they have doubled the resolution of the main display area. This allows you to see all the track info, as well as accommodate WAVE data and easily search through folders on mp3 discs. The "resume play" function starts the disc at the exact time the cd is ejected, which is especially useful for mistakenly ejected cds. The hot loop function stores up to three loops per track, working the same way as the "hot cue" function. MMC memory card capability allows you to store up to 10 cue points on 10,000 cds with an MMC card.

Aside from the improvements mentioned above, the CDJ-1000MK3 remains relatively unchanged from the successful CDJ-1000MK2. It features all the details that you need to successfully dj with cds, including perfect scratch performance, an excellent cue point system, auto beat loop functions and more. For further details on the intricate functions of the CDJ-1000MK3 and comparison to the CDJ-800MK2, please see the forums at Pioneer.

OUR OPIONION
Pioneer has been the go-to cd turntable manufacturer since they first introduced the CDJ-1000 in 2002 and it has remained on top by constantly improving their gear and listening to the requests of their customers. Their players are extremely easy to use, function more or less perfectly, and have great display functions (extremely important when dj'ing on cd players). While they haven't made any drastic improvements with the CDJ-1000MK3, this remains the most reliable cd turntable on the market. The new features have optimized the 1000's performance, made it even more user friendly and prepared it for the switch from djs using actual cds to djs using mp3s compiled on cd. Pioneer CDJ's are the most widely used cd turntables from clubs to studios to bedrooms, and since the memory cards will be recognized by any CDJ-1000, you can just bring your discs and your memory card to any club and you will be ready to play. The CDJ-1000MK3 remains the top of the line when it comes to cd turntables.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
cd turntables / pioneer - cd turntables

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Pioneer
CDJ-100S CD Turntable - DISCONTINUED

OVERVIEW
This is Pioneer's most basic professional CD player, perfect for those who need to incorporate CDs into their sets or studios without the high expense of a deluxe model. The main difference between the CDJ-100 and higher priced models, is the lack of a vinyl simulation mode (you won't be able to scratch with this). In its place you have the standard jog dial which is fully functional for cueing and beat matching. In addition, the CDJ-100 also features cue point settings, master tempo pitch control (aka key correction, an excellent feature here), effects (flanger and wah), up to one minute of sample time and more. The compact size of this model is a plus, measuring 8.5 x 3.75 x 12.25".

OPINION
Overall, the most impressive feature is the excellent price point, more than half the price of its big brother model with the same Pioneer quality.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
cd turntables / pioneer - cd turntables

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Pioneer
CDJ-200 CD Turntable

OVERVIEW
The CDJ-200 is a step up from Pioneer's CDJ-100, bridging the gap between their most basic professional CD player and the higher priced vinyl simulation models. This is an excellent choice for djs who need a high quality cd turntable with dj functions, but don't require scratching ability. You do have a digital jog dial which is fully functional for cueing, beat matching and controlling effects, but scratching is not a possibility with this unit. The CDJ-200 is also much smaller (11" x 8.5") than the vinyl-simulating models, which makes it perfect for traveling and cramped studio spaces.

FEATURES
While the lack of scratching capability will be a drawback to some, the CDJ-200 includes an efficient and useful set of features which will meet the needs of nearly everybody else. Functions include assignable cue point settings, +/-6/10/16 % pitch bend with master tempo control (aka key correction), digital jog break effects (jet, zip and wah), sampling & looping capability with easy to use adjustments, CD-RW and mp3s playback capability with folder search functions, and more. Many of these are either improvements over the CDJ-100 or simply new features.

OUR OPINION
Pioneer continues to be one of the top digital manufacturers, and their cd players are some of the most trusted on the market. The CDJ-200 looks great (people love the blue light), the quality is high, and the relatively small size is very welcome. It still comes in at an excellent price point, and solidifies Pioneer's stake in the market for non-scratch professional cd players.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
cd turntables / pioneer - cd turntables

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Pioneer
CDJ-400 CD Turntable w/MIDI Control + USB

SPECIAL OFFER: Purchase two (2) CDJ-400's between January 1, 2008 and August 31, 2008 and get a free download version of Pioneer's DJS Software. Details on redemption card inside the box.

OVERVIEW
The latest addition to the popular CDJ line is the CDJ-400, which brings many high-end features like those found in higher priced models at a relatively affordable price. This versatile deck can play all types of CDs, MP3 CDs, and media from USB storage devices, vinyl emulation and scratching, plus unique features like MIDI control via USB (which allows you to control DJ software like Serato without the timecode disc), scratch and loop effects, and much more.

FEATURES
The CDJ-400 is a full featured CD deck with the capability to play CD, CD-R, CDRW, and MP3 CD formats, as well as music from mass storage devices, thumb drivesm and external via USB. Through the new push-selection Rotary Scroll Wheel and Back Button, users can navigate files and folders as simply and quickly. The deck also features the unique capablitliy to control your DJ and music software with MIDI via USB. This is achieved by simply selecting the PC Source Select button, so that virtually all of the deck’s buttons and slider can send MIDI control data via the PC USB connection. DJ's can connect the CDJ-400 to a PC or MAC and play and manipulate files from their favorite DJ application software (like Serato)without the time-code disc! Other features include: +/-6, 10, 16 & 100% pitch range, vinyl emulation and scratch capability, the world's first Scratch Jog Effects (bubble, transform, wah), DSP effects (jet flange, wah, roll), BPM counter, hot looping with beat divide function, illuminated touch sensitive jog wheel w/ 6 settings, digital anti shock & pioneer oil damper float, and reverse play.

OUR OPINION
Pioneer's CDJ line is the most trusted and widely used CD turntables in the business. With many advanced features like MIDI control, effects, and many compatible formats, The CDJ-400 is an excellent choice for CD DJs of all levels at a relatively affordable price.

reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
cd turntables / pioneer - cd turntables

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Pioneer
CDJ-800MK2 CD Turntable

OVERVIEW
The upgraded version of Pioneer's popular CDJ-800 digital vinyl turntable. The 800 was already gaining wide use for its unmatched combination of performance and price tag (it's basically the same as their top of the line CDJ-1000 player, just without some of the deluxe features), and this new model should continue to be the best value on the CD turntable market.

FEATURES
There are a few major differences between the CDJ-800MK2 and the CDJ-800 (which has now been discontinued), the most important being the ability to play mp3's. While the CDJ-800MK2 doesn't offer a USB connection or any other way to hook up to your computer, it is now capable of playing all mp3 files burned onto CDs. Another major improvement is with the unit's display features. You can now switch to "text mode" and get the artist name, track title or file name on the display, as well as perform a "folder search" during mp3 playback. The display is a higher resolution, closer to the surface for better viewing, and includes a few improvements on the jog wheel such as 45 degree angle markers. The jog wheel itself has also been altered from the original CDJ-800, featuring a "heavier" platter more similar to the CDJ-1000 and a new metallic finish. Lastly, the cue point memory has been increased from 500 on the old unit to 4000 on the new CDJ-800MK2.

Aside from that, the CDJ-800MK2 remains almost identical to the very successful CDJ-800. It features all the details that you need to successfully dj with cds, including perfect scratch performance, an excellent cue point system, auto beat loop functions and more.

OUR OPINION
While Pioneer hasn't made any drastic improvements to the CDJ-800, this is still an outstanding piece of equipment and the new features have really optimized the 800's performance. Please note that rather than being a piece that current CDJ-800 owners should upgrade to, this is aimed more at new customers and those looking to replace old units. Pioneer CDJ's are the most widely used cd turntables from clubs to studios to bedrooms, and it doesn't look like anyone will be taking them out soon. Their players are extremely easy to use, function more or less perfectly, and have great display functions (extremely important when dj'ing on cd players). For the price and the features, this is probably our most recommended cd turntable.

improvements over the CDJ-800
- mp3 support
- heavier jog wheel with new metallic surface
- improved jog wheel display
- 4000 cue point capability (compared to 500 on the old model)
- improved main display with text mode for easy track identification
- new metallic finish on buttons, jog wheel and pitch slider
reviewed by mgmnt

file under:
cd turntables / pioneer - cd turntables

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Spacetek
Universal Stand

SHIPPING NOTE: this item only ships domestically. We cannot ship this outside of the US.

OVERVIEW
A very functional, space saving, heavy duty stand for the growing DJ setup. Turntables take up a lot of room, especially when you're trying to accommodate a laptop or an extra CD turntable. Spacetek's fully-adjustable Universal Stand eliminates this problem by elevating your laptop, CD turntable, effects, etc. above your DJ setup, all with easier access. We think is especially useful for DJs who are integrating laptops into their setup when using Serato or Final Scratch.

The Universal Stand is fully adjustable; the surface can be lowered, raised, and tilted to achieve your optimal positioning. Rubber padding is featured on the deck as well as the feet to reduce feedback and vibration. There is also a wire shot through the chrome extension pole to keep a clean, orgainized appearance.

For travel, the Universal Stand comes apart into (3) very portable pieces that you easily can put back together with the included Allen wrench. In addition, the powder coat paint and chrome finishes are highly scratch resistant.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
cd turntables / all - digital djing / accessories - digital djing / dj equipment - new arrivals

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Stanton
C.303 CD Turntable

OVERVIEW
Stanton's entry level tabletop CD player, built for those who need an affordable, reliable CD player with DJ functions, but don't need to scratch. You do have a digital jog dial which is fully functional for cueing, beat matching and controlling effects, but scratching is not a possibility with this unit. Much like Pioneer's CDJ-100 and 200, the C.303 comes in at a great price and offers all the basics features which have now become standard for CD DJing.

FEATURES
The C.303's efficient set of features includes seamless looping, flexible on board sampling assignable to four trigger pads, 4 assignable cue points, wide range pitch control (+/- 8%, 16%, 25%, 100%) with a very effective master tempo key lock and the pitch bend function, which allows you to further push the tempo plus or minus 8%. While you can't use the jog dial to scratch, its free-spinning design is an improvement over the feel of those CD jog wheels which only move a couple inches. Includes both dual RCA and S/PDIF digital outputs.

OUR OPINION
The C.303 is designed to be an entry level piece, and Stanton effectively meets this goal by getting the most important aspects right. While the lack of scratching capability will be a drawback to some, the C.303 offers everything a non-scratching DJ needs to get rolling. Good choice for the anyone who wants an affordable way to incorporate CDs into their DJ routine.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
cd turntables

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Stanton
C.313 CD Turntable

OVERVIEW
Stanton's upgrade to their popular C.303 CD player, the C.313 now features full mp3 capability, along with expanded browsing and folder displays. The C.313 is an entry level player that will satisfy those who need an affordable, reliable CD player with DJ functions, but don't need to scratch. You do have a digital jog dial which is fully functional for cueing, beat matching and controlling effects, but scratching is not a possibility with this unit. Much like Pioneer's CDJ-100 and 200, the C.313 comes in at a great price and offers all the basics features which have now become standard for CD DJing.

FEATURES
The C.313's efficient set of features includes seamless looping, flexible on board sampling assignable to four trigger pads, 4 assignable cue points, wide range pitch control (+/- 8%, 16%, 25%, 100%) with a very effective master tempo key lock and the pitch bend function, which allows you to further push the tempo plus or minus 8%. While you can't use the jog dial to scratch, its free-spinning design is much better than similar CD players with jog wheels that only move a couple inches. It makes cueing records much more natural, and searching for tracks a lot easier. Includes both dual RCA and S/PDIF digital outputs.

OUR OPINION
The C.313 is designed to be an entry level piece, and Stanton effectively meets this goal by getting the most important aspects right. While the lack of scratching capability will be a drawback to some, the C.313 offers everything a non-scratching DJ needs to get rolling and the sampling & looping capability gives you some cool stuff to play with. Good choice for the anyone who wants an affordable way to incorporate CDs into their DJ routine.
reviewed by mgmnt

file under:
cd turntables

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Stanton
C.324 CD Turntable

OVERVIEW
The C.324 is the upgraded version of Stanton's popular C.314 CD player. Not only does the C.324 inherit many of the basic features of its predecessor like a slot-loading mechanism, MP3 playback, onboard file and folder browsing, 7 digital effects - it now also features real-time sample and loop sequencing, beat synchronized samples and loops, key lock and more. An excellent value for this price.

FEATURES
New features for the C.324 include a slot loading mechanism (finally!), real-time sampling and loop sequencing, and beat synchronized samples and loops. The slot-loading mechanism is a no brainer step up from all previous models that featured a tray loading system. With the new slot loading mechanism, you can load CDs quickly into the unit even in low light situations. The trigger pads on the C.324 now offer real-time sampling/loop sequencing, meaning the trigger patterns can now be recorded in real time and looped instantaneously. Drum patterns and loops can be resequenced and looped to adding a new twist on live remixing.

Like the C.314 before, the C.324 features Stanton's extremely touch sensitive, and surprisingly responsive jog wheel for scratching and actively DJing. It functions without lagtime, digital burps or any other problems, and the platter feels very sturdy. Again - no shakiness or back and forth wiggle movement. In addition to inheriting the jog wheel and control functions, the C.324 also has the seamless looping, wide range pitch control (+/- 8%, 16%, 25%, 100%) a very effective master tempo key lock and the pitch bend function, which allows you to further push the tempo plus or minus 8%, mp3 playback with text display and onboard file and folder browsing, auto and manual BPM control, adjustable platter and start/brake speed, and reliable anti-shock playback with auto cure. The C.324 also has 7 different on- board effects including filter, aut-filter, phase, echo, flanger, pan & trans, all of which are auto beat synched and depth-adjustable. The LCD screen on the C.324 is also improved with a deep blue color and visual marker for track position.

OVERVIEW
Stanton sure didn't skimp when it comes to features on this model. The C.324 comes with all the necessities like true vinyl-like response and slot loading mechanism, as well as tons of advanced features like on board effects, sampling, and looping that are usually found in higher priced models. With all these improvements, it is amazing that this unit is priced under $400. A great deck for home, studio, and mobile DJ use.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
cd turntables

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