TURNTABLE LAB

Alesis
M1 Active 320 USB Monitors (Pair)

compact speakers with built-in interface

OVERVIEW
The Alesis M1Active 320USBs are the first monitor spearkers with a built-in interface. This means you can play and record audio coming in thru your speakers (via 1/4", RCA + 1/8" inch inputs located on the back of the speakers) into the computer - no special drivers required. This is the most affordable way to get a pair of powered speakers (no amp or receiver required) AND a digital interface into your studio.


FEATURES
The M1Active 320 USB's are powered speakers (no amp or receiver required) with a USB 1.1 audio interface built in. They feature two 1/4" inputs, stereo RCA inputs, and 1/8" TRS mini-jack input which allow you to plug in your mixers output, turntables, keyboards, guitars, mics, or CD player into the M1Active and record and play directly into your computer at 16 bit/44.1-48kHz via USB. No special drivers required! The speakers also feature a helpful bass boost feature, switchable power supply, and magnetic shielding for placement near TV or computer monitors. Their lightweight and portable design which makes them very easy take along with you on the road.


OUR OPINION
If you are a dj or producer in the market for desktop monitors and an interface, you can't really beat the M1Active 320 USBs. The price is about as much as desktop monitors alone, but with the inclusion of a digital interface the value is incredible.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
monitors + speakers / alesis store

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Alesis
M1 Active 520 USB Monitors (Pair)

speakers and interface in one

OVERVIEW
Alesis' M1 Active 520 USB's are professional studio monitors with a built-in digital audio interface. The speakers themselves are active (no need for amplifier), bi-amplified, two way reference monitors with full sonic range and with the integrated USB interface, you can connect to your MAC or PC and record/play straight from your computer with professional sound quality all at an attractive price.

FEATURES
The M1 Active 520 USB's are 2-way, active, bi-amplified pair of reference studio-monitor loudspeakers with 30 watts per speaker, 5-inch lightweight polypropylene woofer for smooth responsive low end, 1-inch silk-dome tweeter for super clear highs, and a low resonance cabinet with tuned bass port. The integrated USB interface allows for 16-bit, 44.1/48 kHz recording and playback from your computer with no special drivers or installation - simply plug and play! In addition the speakers feature 2x 1/4" inputs, stereo 1/4" headphone out, bi-color signal/clip indicator, and are magnetically shielded for placement near TV and computer monitors. Switchable power supply ensures worldwide operation.

OUR OPINION
These are a great deal for anyone looking for decent speakers AND an audio interface in one. If you are just starting to set up your production studio or just want to stream line, you really can't beat the features for the price of the M1 Active 520 USBs. The smaller version (M1 Active 320) have been consistent sellers, and now with the 520's you have a louder, more powerful speaker/interface combo. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
monitors + speakers / alesis store

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Alesis
MultiMix 8 USB 2.0 Mixer

UPDATE: This is the USB 2.0 model which features USB 2.0 technology for ultra-fast, low-latency, 24-bit/44.1-96kHz (with high-end A/D and D/A conversion) multi-channel audio recording straight to your computer. Also features a new, sleek black finish.

OVERVIEW
Alesis' MultiMix series is a strong addition to the audio mixer market. This series integrates Alesis' low noise electronics (what they are known for), 100 digital effects, and rock solid construction all at a very competitive price. The MultiMix 8USB 2.0 is the middle model in the line and offers 8 channels and a high resolution USB in/out for interfacing with your computer.

USES
- mixing different sound inputs
- adding effects
- USB audio interface

FEATURES
The first thing that must be highlighted is the design of this mixer. Alesis has always been known for their eye pleasing design, but here they've surpassed expectations by delivering rugged construction and an extremely compact, portable size now in sleek black.

With the USB connection, comes two big bonus features. The Multimix USB8 doubles as both a input mixer and an audio interface, that's one less piece of hardware to buy. Record audio into this unit, directly into your computer. In addition Alesis has included an excellent production program in Cubase LE to get you started.

In addition to the 8 channels and USB connectivity, the MultiMix features (4) high-gain mic inputs with phantom power. There are balanced 1/4" inputs, 1/4" outputs, 1/4" monitor output, and headphone out.

There are 100 28-bit easily accessible effects including reverbs, delays, chorus, flanging, and pitch. Each channel features a 3-band EQ. Steinberg Cubase LE (the limited version of Cubase) is also included.

OUR OPINION
If you are not shopping for an expensive professional mixer like those made by Mackie, we highly recommend the Multimix USB8 2.0. It's very rugged and portable, and offers some unbelievable features at this price range (USB audio interface and effects). The USB 2,0 connectivity is especially crucial because once you utilize the excellent, clean sound of this mixer, you can transfer it digitally to your computer while keeping sound quality intact at high speeds. This is a great mixer for portable or home usage.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
alesis store

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Alesis
PhonoLink USB Audio Interface

easy, affordable way to record to computer

LAB POINTS
- connect any turntable, cd player, tape deck or line level source to computer via USB
- quality 16-bit/44.1kHz digital recording
- plug and play
- Mac and PC compatible


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
PhonoLink makes it easy to direct-connect nearly any turntable, tape deck, mixer, or other stereo, line-level audio source to USB for stereo recording.

The AudioLink Series USB-audio cable outputs studio quality stereo, 16-bit, 44.1 kHz digital audio thanks to its internal analog-to-digital conversion system. PhonoLink connects plug-and-play to your Mac or PC for an all-in-one USB audio solution.


MORE DETAILS
For more details, please visit the manufacturer's website.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
all - digital djing / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / dj accessories / most requested - cables / and more

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Avid
Avid Recording Studio (M-Audio Fast Track USB Interface + Pro Tools SE Software)

affordable recording + production solution

LAB POINTS
- record vocals and instruments via USB with the Fast Track interface
- includes Pro Tools SE to record, edit and produce
- over 100 virtual instruments
- extensive library of templates and loops


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
Powered by the same technology behind many of today’s greatest hits, Avid® Recording Studio instantly transforms your Mac or PC into a full-featured studio. Capture guitars, instruments, and vocals in pristine, 24-bit/48 kHz quality with the included Pro Tools® SE recording software and M-Audio® Fast Track® audio interface. Then fatten your guitar sound, deepen the groove, and get clean, pristine tones with Pro Tools SE. You can also add backing tracks with loops from the huge included library, then polish your songs and share them with the world. Avid Recording Studio makes it easy to create stunning audio projectsâ€"even if you’ve never recorded before.


MORE DETAILS
For more details, please visit the manufacturer's website.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Electrix
Ebox-44 USB Audio Interface

compact USB interface for DJs/producers

LAB POINTS
- compact USB interface
- 4 RCA inputs with Phono / Line switch
- 1/4" Microphone input with level control
- 4 RCA line level outputs
- 1/4" stereo headphone output with level control
- LED activity indicators for inputs and outputs
- ground post for turntable connections
- includes low-latency drivers for Mac & PC


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
The new Electrix Ebox-44 is the perfect audio interface for mobile applications, budget studios, computer DJs, or even home use to convert your vinyl or CD collection to digital audio files. It is fully USB bus powered, which means it can be connected on-the-fly and used anywhere with just a laptop.

The Ebox-44 features four RCA inputs, four RCA outputs, 1/4in headphones output with volume control, and 1/4in microphone input with gain control. The four inputs support turntables thanks to the built-in phono preamps, ground post, and phono/line switch. The four inputs and outputs have blue LED activity indicators.

The included low latency ASIO and Core Audio drivers means flawless performance on both PC and Mac. The Ebox-44 is great for use with DJ software including Virtual DJ and Traktor, audio recording and production software like Logic, Cubase, & Live, or even everyday applications like iTunes.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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

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Focusrite
VRM Box Headphone Monitoring System

headphones monitoring system featuring Virtual Reference Monitoring

LAB POINTS
- high-quality 24- bit/48kHz USB audio playback interface
- VRM (Virtual Reference Monitoring) let's you mix in different environments and through different speakers just using your headphones
- get multiple perspectives on your mix
- top notch D/A conversion for full range sound
- compact ultra-portable size, robust build quality
- Pro Tools Native and HD friendly


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
With VRM Box, you can mix in your studio, wherever you are. Pocket sized and built to last, VRM Box places Focusrite's proven and patent-pending VRM's Virtual Reference Monitoring technology in a robust, palm-sized audio interface.

VRM overcomes the major obstacle for mixing with headphones by giving you multiple perspectives on your mix, as if you were listening through speakers. Indeed, noise levels from mixing through speakers can make it impossible for most to mix at home, especially late at night; with VRM, you can mix any time, anywhere. Using any pair of monitoring headphones, VRM lets you choose your mixing environment from a living room, a bedroom studio, or a professional studio. You then simply choose from a list of industry-standard studio monitors and speakers

VRM Box delivers audio quality worthy of your headphones. Boasting a dynamic range of 108dB, it provides a sound that's more precise, with lower distortion, than other low-cost audio interfaces, and far superior to built-in laptop headphone outputs.

VRM Box functions as a high-quality 24- bit/48kHz USB audio playback interface. So, whether you're mixing, creating music or simply listening to tracks, VRM Box is perfect. What's more, there's no need for a power supply or batteries, because it gets all the power it needs, with full audio quality, from your computer's USB port. VRM Box also features a digital (S/PDIF) input, which supports sample rates up to 192kHz. This allows you to run it in conjunction with your Pro Tools HD system, or any other interface with an S/PDIF output.


MORE DETAILS
For more details, please visit the manufacturer's website.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
accessories - headphones / monitors + speakers / dj accessories /

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Music Hall
DAC 25.3 USB Digital To Analog Converter

convert digital audio to high quality analog output

LAB POINTS
- high quality digital to analog converter
- connect any digital source and output to 2 channel stereo analog
- tube output
- 4 digital inputs (USB, optical, XLR, SPDIF)
- 1/4" headphone output


MANUFACTUERER'S REVIEW
We significantly upgraded the award winning dac25.2 to the dac25.3. The upgrade was to the USB input which now accepts 24bit/96kHz signals. The dac25.3 is natively compatible with Windows 7/Vista/XP/2000 and Mac OS X.

Today an increasing number of music lovers are buying storing and listening to music through their computer, media server, or personal music player (iPod). Many are also digitally distributing their music using a sonos, squeezebox, or one of a host of digital music distribution systems available on the market. This is a great way to explore and appreciate music but generally it’s done at the expense of sound quality. Until now music lovers have been forced to rely on the inferior digital to analog converters (DACs) and sounds cards contained in those devices. As a result, their musical enjoyment has dramatically suffered. We designed the dac25.3 to directly address this problem and to significantly improve the sound quality of the music played on these systems.

By uniting a state of the art digital to analog converter with a tube output we produce the clarity and precision of a 24bit DAC with the warm rich open sound people love of tubes. The dac25.3 has 4 digital inputs which can accept any coax (s/pdif), optical, XLR (AES/EBU), or USB digital input from an iPod transport, computer, media server, sonos, squeezebox, CD/DVD in stereo transport, or music hall’s own cd35.2 compact disc player, and it will output two channel stereo analog.

The dac25.3 features the latest texas instruments (formerly burr-brown) PCM 1796 24bit/192kHz, advanced segment, stereo audio digital to analog converter. This processor features 123dB dynamic range an 8 x oversampling digital filter and just 0.0005% thd. The dac25.3 upsamples to either 96kHz or 192kHz which is user selectable on the front panel. To achieve the best sound we use an advanced asynchronous reclocking and anti jitter control system upstream of the PCM 1796 DAC. For this system we are using the philips 74HC574 in conjunction with the ti SRC4192 asynchronous sample rate converter whose master clock is a high precision active crystal oscillator. The dac25.3 also features a large r-core high current oversize power transformer. A headphone output is provided for convenient personal listening.


MORE DETAILS
For more details please visit the manufacturer's website.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
music hall turntables / audiophile gear / music hall

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Native Instruments
Audio 2 DJ USB Interface

ultra compact interface for DJs

OVERVIEW
The AUDIO 2 DJ fills the need for a high quality, ultra-mobile audio interface for digital DJs using TRAKTOR or other DJing and performance software. It Is Native Instruments' entry level solution for DJs who want ultimate portability with no compromise on audio quality. If you're a digital DJ who doesn't require audio recording or timecode control, the AUDIO 2 DJ is made for you.

FEATURES
The AUDIO 2 DJ connects to your computer via the USB 2.0 cable. The two 1/4 inch output channels can either be used to route stereo signals to an external mixer, or as a master out and headphone monitor for using the internal mixer of your DJ or performance software. The included cables make hooking up to any system a breeze- all you need is your AUDIO 2 DJ and laptop.

Amazing sound quality is guaranteed with super high-end Cirrus Logic AD/DA converters. Ultra low-latency drivers, hi-gain output levels (providing up to 9.7 dBu on both channels), and the ultra-wide frequency response affirm the AUDIO 2 DJs professional credentials. The uncompromising sound quality and clarity will reveal every detail of your music. Also includes Traktor Pro Demo and Kore Soundpack so you can start mixing and producing right away!
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
all - digital djing / traktor pro - digital djing / digital djing systems / and more

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Vestax
Tank VAI-80 USB Audio Interface

compact and stylish USB interface

LAB POINTS
- high quality USB audio interface
- multi-channel playback & recording (4 channel in/4 channel out)
- gain and EQ controls on each channel
- use hardware to control levels instead of software controls
- XLR outs for easy connection to club systems
- unique and compact design


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
Have you ever experienced starting a mix and having no sound coming out? Restart your laptop, check connections and all and then figure that the audio level of the driver software's control panel was set to 0? With regular audio interfaces, it has been necessary to rely on the driver software to control audio levels.

"THE TANK" has taken away that uneasiness, making it speedier and simpler for the user. "THE TANK" (VAI-80) is a compact and stylish digital audio interface capable of multi channel playback and recording. Each input has GAIN & EQ (hi, low) control to enable flexible adjustments for live recording and can free up the DJ from relying on the software control panel.

Also loaded with XLR output for direct connection with club PA systems, "THE TANK" is an excellent tool with high sound quality for any DJ or DAQ software.

MORE DETAILS
For more details, please visit the manufacturer's website
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
all - digital djing / accessories - digital djing / digital djing systems / vestax store

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Vestax
VCI-100MKII USB DJ Controller w/ Traktor LE

popular digital dj controller, now with built-in interface + 4 deck control

LAB POINTS
- updated MKII version with built-in sound card, 4 deck control, and tension adjustable JOG wheels
- all-in-one hardware + software digital djing system, all you need is a computer and headphones
- includes Traktor LE
- built-in 16bit/44.1kHz audio interface, no need for additional interface
- 2 RCA in and 4 RCA out enables you to add CD players, turntables, and effects to your setup
- large high resolution JOG wheels
- new joystick for speedy track searching & loading
- dedicated USB MIDI controller, up to 128 MIDI assignable parameters
- durable and lightweight, only 4.4 pounds


LAB REVIEW
This is the updated MKII version. The main differences between MKI and MKII are the addition of the built-in 2 in/4 out audio interface (which eliminates the need for additional interfaces and allows for addition of CD players, turntables, samplers and effects to your DJ setup), 4 deck control, and larger, tension adjustable JOG wheels. Additional upgrades include a new multi-function joystick for quick and easy searching and loading of tracks, more MIDI assignable parameters (128 total), new ergonomic knobs, and a new symmetrical control layout.

These upgrades make the VCI-100 almost on par with the VCI-300, but includes Traktor LE instead of Serato Itch and lacks mic input and 1/4" outs. The addition of the built-in interface is huge in making the unit a true all-in-one system, plus the option to control 4 decks, quick search joystick, and lightweight design make the VCI-100MK2 an excellent choice for digital DJs. Recommended.


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
In 2006, Vestax introduced the VCI-100, the world’s first professional USB MIDI controller, which perfectly fit into the upcoming demand of the computer DJ scene. The concept of flexibly controlling any DJ software and being built with Japanese parts and mechatronics technology enabled the VCI-100 to make its mark in the DJ world. Over the years as the entire DJ scene made its shift to computer based DJing, we kept collecting requests and demands to make another mark. This time, with the VCI-100MK2.

HIGH QUALITY AUDIO
The VCI-100MK2 includes a high quality 16bit/44.1kHz 2in4out audio interface which enables to add CD players, turntables, effects, samplers, and more to your DJ setup. Also considering DJs who want to have options, the VCI-100MK2 can also be used with other audio interfaces.

4 DECK CONTROL
Mix maximum 4 decks by switching through with the DECK selector.

MULTI FUNCTION JOYSTICK
Instant access to your track lists, quick track previewing and track loading all with one joystick.

TORQUE CONTROL
Every DJ has a preference for the touch of the JOG wheel, which relates to the DJ's play style. The rotation torque of the VCI-100MK2's JOG wheels can be tuned to your preference by simply adjusting the centerpiece.

ERGONOMIC CONTROLS
Ergonomic design control knobs with anti-slip coating provide the perfect touch to make accurate adjustments.

REFINED CONTROL
All buttons of the VCI-100MK2 are tuned to provide a stress less refined touch and communicate with extreme precision. LED backlights provide excellent visibility and tells you the current status of your setup.

ALUMITE PANEL
The strong and solid alumite (the same aluminum type material used on macbooks) top panel secures the VCI-100MK2 and provides a professional appearance. Just looking at it tells you it will live up to heavy duty.


MORE INFO
For more details, please visit the manufacturer's website.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
all - digital djing / DJ packages / traktor pro - digital djing / and more

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Vestax
VCI-300MKII USB DJ Controller w/ Serato ITCH

all-in-one digital dj system w/Serato

LAB POINTS
- all-in-one hardware + software digital djing system, all you need is a computer and headphones
- custom designed to use with Serato Itch program (included)
- designed with djs in mind, increasingly more popular amongst digital djs
- built-in interface, easy setup, no need for additional Serato box or audio interface
- dedicated USB MIDI controller
- highly portable, weighs less than 9 lbs.
- touch sensitive JOG wheels simulate real turntable control


OUR OPINION
This is the updated MKII version. Main differences between MKI and MKII: small 1/8" and big 1/4" headphone socket, master volume boost when using an external power supply, new adjust knobs for the platter sensitivity, new optional Vestax digital crossfader, and new analog throughput for mic/aux input.

The VCI-300 is quickly becoming the dj standard for all-in-one, controller based DJing. The intuitive mixer-like layout, the touch sensitive JOG wheels, and the Serato Itch software, all combine to give the user an experience that is very similar to djing on a turntable-based Serato setup. We've seen many DJs use the VCI-300, and everything from the djs movements to the music manipulation is very similar. In addition, because of its size, weight (less than 9 lbs.), and all-in-one design (the interface is built-in), the VCI-300 is one of the most portable djing solutions available. Recommended.


MANUFACTURER's REVIEW
Vestax and Serato have joined forces. Sharing their technology and compiled feedback from Pro DJs and users from around the world, they have created a dedicated DJ USB MIDI / Audio system and software offering absolute control.

The VCI-300 is a dedicated USB MIDI controller for the included Serato DJ software. It also comes with a built in audio interface with standard 4in/4out and headphone connection, which means all you need for DJing is the VCI-300, a laptop and a set of headphones.

New features such as the [Emergency Thru Switch] offers an option of using the VCI-300 with the provided ITCH software or without the computer connected if you simply want to play music from your external CD or MP3 player. Another is the new weight reduced JOG wheel and the adjustable JOG wheel torque mechanism to avoid vibration from low frequency feedback. 

HIGH RESOLUTION CONTROL
The VCI-300 can control more than 90 parameters and functions of the included Serato software with high resolution MIDI signals sent via USB. The pulse resolution of the JOG wheel and pitch control fader is 4 times higher than the VCI-100 and provides precise control of each function. The pitch control fader also shares the same high quality fader parts of the input fader for advanced operability.

SUPERB AUDIO CHARACTERISTIC
The built-in audio interface carries a Audio Codec IC with superb audio characteristic, generated by a delta-sigma modulation 24 bit stereo D/A-A/D converter. Audio connection includes 1 stereo input, 1 MIC input and 2 stereo output (Master L/R, Monitor L/R).

LEVEL INDICATION
A 12 level LED L/R indicator is set in the center of the top panel to monitor sound levels.

FILE CONTROL
Audio files in the software library can be easily selected and controlled with the CRATES / FILES / BROWSE key and the cursor switch inherited from the VCM-100.

EMERGENCY THRU SWITCH
The Emergency Thru Switch located on the rear panel is a countermeasure where you can use the VCI-300 with the provided ITCH software or without the computer connected if you simply want to play music from your external CD or MP3 player. The ITCH software reads music from your iTunes library or the Serato library you use for Scratch LIVE, making it the perfect device for recreational or professional DJ's.

ADJUSTABLE JOG WHEEL TORQUE
The torque of each JOG wheel can be adjusted to prevent them from moving from low frequency feedback and altering the pitch when using the VCI-300 in such places like clubs.

FADER CURVE CONTROL
The fader curve of each fader can be adjusted to the preferred characteristics for long mixes, scratching and any other style.


FOR MORE DETAILS
For more details, please visit the manufacturer's website.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
all - digital djing / DJ packages / vestax - digital djing / digital djing systems / and more

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