OVERVIEW
With the DN-S1000, Denon has released an extremely compact version of their groundbreaking (yet under-appreciated) line of DN-S cd turntables. The first thing you'll notice about this model is how small it is- at 8.5" by 8.5" by 3.5" it feels like...
expand review it's about half the size of the CDJ-1000. You can scratch, play mp3s, do real-time looping, add effects, adjust the platter control, and more- all with a piece that costs $399.00.
FEATURES
The DN-S1000 includes all the basic features you need to feel comfortable djing with cds, plus quite a few of the advanced features from the higher end DN-S3000 model. The basic ones include assigning cue points, pitch adjustment of +/-4, 10, 16, 24 or 100%, master tempo key control, an auto or tap bpm counter, and an effective display layout. In terms of scratching and djing, the DN-S1000 is surprisingly responsive and functions without lagtime, digital burps or any other problems. Please note that the platter is very responsive to your touch, and will not engage in "scratch mode" unless you are pressing down a bit. This may take a little getting used to, but otherwise the scratching experience is very accurate.
Other features include seamless looping with easy cuts & adjustment, MP3 playback & search capability, a "next track" function which allows you to cue up another song on the same cd- you can also have the 1000 fade mix into the next track if you choose; echo/loop, flanger & filter effects; break, platter drag & "scratch stroke" adjustment. And the size is a feature in itself, allowing the DN-S1000 to sneak into areas where bigger players would be cumbersome.
OUR OPINION
This is a very impressive piece from all angles. It's truly a great shape and size, and there is simply nothing on the market that packs so many features into such a compact and affordable player. We highly recommend this to anyone who wants to bring cds (and mp3s) into their dj routine or studio.
OVERVIEW
The DN-S5000 is Denon's top of the line CD player, and one of the few viable options for users who demand vinyl simulation functionality in a CD player. Much like Pioneer's CDJ line (but at a lower cost), you can do anything...
expand review with the DNS-5000 that you could do with a traditional vinyl turntable (cueing, mixing, scratching, juggling, etc). In addition, this model also offers many unique digital features, an intuitive ease of use, and quality Denon construction.
FEATURES
There are two main features on the DN-S5000 which separate it from other CD turntables. The main difference is that the it is capable of what they call Alpha Track playback. Essentially, this allows you to play and mix two tracks from the same CD at the same time. The unit features 2 separate outputs for the Main and Alpha playback, so connecting them to 2 channels on your mixer allows you to mix two tracks from the same unit. This is an unprecedented feature which potentially does away with the need for a second CD turntable. The 5000 also has the Hot Disc function which gives you 35 seconds of playtime after you have ejected a CD and should be enough time to get your next track ready. Another unique feature is the 5000's motor driven platter which spins at 45rpm with an independent, record• like plastic disc on top. When you place your hand on the plastic disc, the platter keeps spinning and the feeling is almost identical to that of a traditional turntable. This plastic disc may also be replaced with an actual 7" record, which obviously brings the two mediums even closer.
Another great feature is the DN-S5000's ability to playback MP3s, a function currently unavailable on most other CD players. In order to take advantage of this function, you have to first download a free plugin from Denon's website. While this is a slight inconvenience, it is a great indication of the care that Denon has put into their products and their commitment to evolving with their customer's needs. Look for more free plug-ins (rather than new models) as times change. The 5000 also boasts 2 samplers with approximately 15 seconds of sampling time each. Using the Alpha Track system, it is possible to play, scratch & effect those samples while playing a track off a CD; a great feature for scratchers & live use, and another instance of the 5000's dynamic abilities. The unit's memory is quite powerful and in addition to storage of sample info, it can store seamless loop info, cue points, pitch preference and more for up to 5000 tracks. The pitch control functions range from +/-4% to +/-100% and includes the important key correction, which allows you to speed up the tempo of the track without altering the pitch of the voice (ex: match a hip• hop lyric with a house beat without making it sound like a chipmunk).
OUR OPINION
In addition to the DN-S5000's unique features, the relatively inexpensive price is another strongpoint. It should also be stressed again that with the combination of the Alpha Track function and MP3 abilities, you may only need one CD turntable. Denon seems to be very clued into their consumer's needs, as witnessed by the free upgrades and plug-ins which they offer through their website. User feedback has been universally positive and from all angles, and many users even prefer the 5000 to the CDJ-1000, especially with the price difference. -the mgmnt
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,...
expand review 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. -the mgmnt
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...
expand review 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. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The Numark iCDX is the next generation digital turntable that allows you to not only play and manipulate CDs, mp3 CDs, and data DVDs, but also digital files on USB hard drives and flash drives, as well as digital files on most...
expand review mp3 players including iPods. It also has a hands-on controller for programs such as Serato and Numark's Cue.
FEATURES
The iCDX includes all the features of a deluxe CD turntable and more. More importantly, all these features can be applied to any digital media input listed above. The construction and design are also very noteworthy. The iCDX is smaller than your average CD turntable and weighs less than 7 lbs. The CDX also appears to be designed to be very portable with a metal base and impact absorbing plastic sides.
OUR OPINION
The iCDX is the first player/controller of its kind. It bridges all digital formats in one compact player. The ability to control programs such as Serato and Cue is also a huge plus. Although it still lacks the feel and hands-on of a traditional turntable, it builds on the limitations of the CD turntable. -mgmnt
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...
expand review 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. -snackmaster
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...
expand review 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.
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...
expand review 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.
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...
expand review 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.
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...
expand review 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 -mgmnt
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...
expand review 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. -the mgmnt
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,...
expand review 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. -the mgmnt
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...
expand review 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. -mgmnt
OVERVIEW
Stanton's upgrade to their flagship C.304 CD player, the C.314 now features full mp3 capability, along with expanded browsing and folder displays. The C.314 is Stanton's only tabletop CD player with vinyl simulation and the ability to scratch, and it comes in...
expand review at an extremely affordable price point - where very few CD players are able to offer true vinyl response. It also comes with a host of basic and advanced CD turntable functions which will satisfy all but the most hardcore CD programmers. As with all of Stanton's redesigned series of equipment, the CD line has improved construction, better engineering and more attention to detail.
FEATURES
The biggest difference between the C.314 and Stanton's C.313 CD player is the ability to control the CDs as you would vinyl. The jog wheel is extremely touch sensitive, and surprisingly responsive, taking no "getting used to" period for scratching and actively DJing. It functions without lagtime, digital burps or any other problems, and the platter feels very sturdy. No shakiness or back and forth wiggle movement. Functions carried over from the C.313 include 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%.
Additional features include an auto or manual bpm counter, reverse play & sampling capability, a sequencer for the samples and more options for the way you use them. The C.304 also has 6 different on- board effects including filter, phase, echo, flanger, pan & trans, all of which are auto beat synched and depth-adjustable. The LCD screen on the C.314 is also improved, with more information shown and a useful visual marker for track position (works like tape on a record label for scratching).
OPINION
Stanton has made a quality CD turntable with the C.314, and captured all the necessities required for DJing; namely true vinyl-like response and control. The C.314 features a good amount of the fun extras you want on a CD player and the overall "feel" of the unit is above average, all while keeping it very affordable. Recommended for home, studio and mobile dj use. -mgmnt
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...
expand review 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. -the mgmnt
The Tascam TT-M1 allows you to manipulate specific CD players (Vestax's CDX-05 and Tascam's CD line only at this point) using a traditional turntable set-up. The TT-M1 hooks up to your vinyl turntable (it firmly clamps onto the edge), and sends a...
expand review special signal to your CD player, allowing you to control the track on the CD with traditional turntable movements such as back-cueing and scratching.
The TTM-1 works with a roller wheel that can rest on either a record or just the slipmat, and it reacts to your movements with an incredible degree of accuracy. By itself, Vestax's CDX-05 CD turntable is not up to the scratching standards of Pioneer and others, but with the addition of the TT-M1, you get the performance and the hands on experience of the traditional turntable.
This is an excellent choice for those who are a little weary of computer based programs like Final Scratch. This setup requires no computer and no special records. If you have the necessary components (cd player and turntable setup), this is a much easier setup. As for the accuracy, the TT-M1 is remarkably precise, as we have witnessed demos with people like Mixmaster Mike going crazy on one of these things without skips or lag.
OVERVIEW
After months of hype and pre-release pictures circulating the internet, the SL-DZ1200 has finally arrived. We first got a chance to use these in at the winter NAMM show, and it was immediately apparent that Technics had released a piece of equipment...
expand review as powerful and dominating as their world standard SL-1200 turntable. The 1200 has been THE vinyl turntable for over 25 years because of its precise functionality, extreme durability and classy design. Now the SL-DZ1200 has done the same thing for the CD market.
FEATURES
In terms of features, the SL-DZ1200 rises above anything else currently on the CD market. To begin with, the unit feels exactly like a Technics 1200 vinyl turntable. It features similar metal components and stands on miniature Technics feet. The platter is direct drive with Technics' trademark silver strobe lights on the side. An independent slip surface (with grooves) lies on top of the platter, so the whole thing feels very natural. Scratching and all platter manipulations work with the precision you'd expect, and the more complex functions like sampling, looping and cue points are simply laid out and easy to understand. Another important feature is the fact that the SL-DZ1200 has separate inputs for both CDs and SD Memory Cards, and it can read CD, MP3 and AAC formats.
OUR OPINION
In much the same way as the SL-1200 has ruled the turntable market with a double-edged sword of unmatched function and looks, the SL-DZ1200 is both the most technologically advanced CD player on the market and also one of the most beautiful pieces of equipment we've ever seen. Upgrades will be made available directly from the Technics website, and as smart card technology advances, this player should have an even greater edge over the competition. Highest recommendation. All orders will also receive a 32MB SD Memory Card and SD Jukebox 4.0 Software, FREE from Technics. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
Vestax enters the professional DJ CD player market with the CDX-05, a player that lands favorably inbetween the flashier, more expensive units from Pioneer & Technics and standard tabletop CD players. Keeping in line with the higher-priced models, the CDX-05 features the...
expand review basic vinyl simulation functions like scratching, back-cueing, and pitch control, but it also brings in some additional features including vinyl sound simulation, built-in effects, and sampler.
FEATURES
One of the features that Vestax is touting the highest with the CDX-05 is the unit's vinyl sound emulation. If you've ever DJ'ed with one cd player and a set of traditional vinyl turntables, you will have noticed the dramatic difference in sound output when switching between the two. Not only are the output volumes in different places, but CDs simply have a much different sonic quality than vinyl. Through the vinyl filter mode, the CDX-05 is able to adjust the filter settings to give the digital sound something much closer to the warmth of vinyl. Mixing between the two formats is then much easier, and the general sound quality coming from this CD player will be much more club-friendly.
Another key feature is the CDX-05's built-in effects- you get flanger, filter, and delay effects all of which are controllable with the jog wheel. The jog wheel is the central function control, which you can use for scratching, searching, pitch bend, effects parameter adjustment, sampler/ program editing, track memory, etc.
In terms of traditional turntable simulation, the CDX-05 is much closer to the higher-end models than your average tabletop CD player. You can perform scratches, back cue, rewind, adjust speed and everything else required for DJ'ing. If you want to get more technical and have more control, this unit is set up to be linked to Tascam's TT-M1 accessory wheel (not included), a device which attaches to your vinyl turntable so that you can control the sound of the CDX-05 with your turntable's platter rather than the jog wheel.
The standard CD player functions are kept to the necessary basics, but even these they do well. Pitch control goes up to +/-100 with master tempo control, it features an 8 second sampler, a seamless looping device which can be fine-tuned with the jog wheel, and more. See the list below for the full set of features & functions. The CDX-05 is able to read both CD-RW (including MP3s) and standard CD formats.
OUR OPINION
The CDX-05 has nearly all the features that DJs are looking for in a professional turntable and it lands at comparatively reasonable price point. The addition of the vinyl sound emulation filters and the built-in effects make this a good choice for DJs who are concerned with their sound. While the scratching functions of this CD turntable are not as advanced as some of the higher priced models, it will do an admiral job for anyone who does not predominantly feature scratching in their sets. With a streamlined set of features, and a user-friendly interface with a clear readout (white on black digital display) and easy to navigate jog wheel control, the CDX-05 gives you everything you need without cluttering the unit. Combined with Vestax's longstanding commitment to quality and durable equipment, you can also be sure that you are getting a player that will last a long time. -the mgmnt
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