OVERVIEW
The legendary 05 Pro has evolved once again to keep up with the changing needs of DJs. In addition to the proven functionality and effective layout of the 05 Pro III VCA, the updated DX model includes additional input/output connections that work...
expand review with DJ software (like Serato) via audio interface and makes setup and switchover much easier. An optional USB connection is also available for this mixer.
FEATURES
The 05ProIII DX features the exact same main control section as the 05ProIII VCA, the only difference is the addition of the "DX mode" connection that makes it possible to connect your digital DJing software to the mixer without taking up your standard rear connections. This also makes it possible to easily switch setups at the club without stopping the sound by switching the PGM DX switch one by one. Also added is the ability to connect the optional USB connection (TUB-1) for instant digital connection from your mixer to your computer. Otherwise, the mixer still has the same proven functionality and effective layout as the previous version of the 05 Pro (the 05 Pro III VCA) including:
- stronger EQs (high +/-12, low +12/-24)
- effects send/receive and effects intensity controls for both channels
- headphone controls moved to clear up fader area
- headphone master preview switch
- re-designed rotary knobs and line switches
- sleek silver faceplate and black checkerboard EQ surface
It also retains all the main features of the 05 line, including the high quality PCV faders for all 3 fader positions, separate mic channel with 2 band EQ and pan, crossfader reverse switch, and crossfader curve adjustment. However, the most important carry-over feature is the overall layout and feel of the mixer. The controls are laid out comfortably with seemingly perfect spacing. The faders, although not optical, provide a comfortable glide with just enough tension. Although these judgments are very subjective, it is no coincidence that the PMC05 is the most copied mixer on the market.
OUR OPINION
Vestax has a great thing going with the 05Pro series and they just keep making it better. It is an easy pick for anyone looking for a quality mixer. Now with the addition of the DX mode and optional USB connectivity, Vestax has made the 05Pro a very attractive mixer to the new generation of digital DJs without compromising the features that have made the mixer so legendary. The only visible weakness is the lack of a mid-channel EQ (which is balanced by the improved EQs), and some advanced users may prefer the warmer sound of Rane when playing on a loud system. Other than this, the 05 is a very solid mixer. -the mgmnt
This one barely requires explanation. The much, much anticipated 3rd volume in the Clipse's mixtape saga is upon us, with DJ Drama behind the wheel this time. Sounds like the R-E-U-P-G-A-N-G is back in top form (or they were never out of...
expand review it) - Sandman and Liva get a chance to shine, everyone freestyles over "Roc Boys" and "Emotionless," and I finally have a new mixtape that I can listen to more than a couple times. If you're not on board with Clipse by now, chances are this won't be up your alley either. But then again if you're not on board with Clipse by now, I question your sanity. 18 tracks total. -Larri Byrd
quick audio picks: 123456
Ok, yes, these regional funk comps are getting totally out of control, but anyone who's picked up a Jazzman release in the past will tell you these dudes do not half step. (Plus, it's co-released by Stones Throw's equally solid Now Again...
expand review imprint.) Here, we've got 22 gritty funk jams from down south, spanning about a 10 year period in the history of the collective Carolinas' funk scenes. Surprisingly, this stuff is every bit as good as the rarities from states more commonly associated with funky business. There's tracks from Now Again favorites Carleen & The Groovers(1), JB impersonator Dynamite Singletary ("Super Good(2)"), The Black Exotics ("Theme of Blackbyrds(3)"), Primitive ("Creation of Music(4)"), the awesomely named Communicators & Black Experience Band ("The Road(5)"), Paul Burton with my personal favorite "So Very Hard To Make It (Without You)(6)" and lots of artists that you've more than likely never heard of but won't wanna forget after hearing. EXTENSIVE liner notes as usual, filling a fat 23 page booklet with loads of rare photos and more information than you ever thought you'd need on the Carolinas. P.S. Tyler Hansborough must be stopped. 22 tracks; 75 minutes total. -Larri Byrd
quick audio picks: 12345
As a lead up to the release of Akoya's new album, let us revisit the first full length recording from this dynamic U.N. of A. (United Nations of Afrobeat). If you've read my review for the "U.S.A.(1)" single, you already know...
expand review where I stand on this tune. It burns like flags in Berkeley, brah! "Mutiny(2)" burns a little slower (forgot the kerosene, Johnson) until about three minutes in when the petrol gets to flowin' and the wind gets to blowin'. I love the playful horn lines leading into the solos on this tune, it really sounds like everyone's having fun. It's refreshing to hear that in these days of musicians either taking themselves way too seriously or being wild corny by trying to sell their enthusiasm to the audience. "Pelotera(3)" jumps from the gate and doesn't bother slowing down for anything or anyone. You best be ready to ride with this one. "Star Wars(4)" is basically the Hideki Matsui of the album, batting in the five spot and having the distinct honor of being my favorite. And much like Godzilla (Matsui's mad racist nickname here in NY) this song is beautiful in it's many complex layers and as a whole composition. As the cd title subtly suggests, this is the perfect introduction to the Akoya Afrobeat Ensemble. Be prepared to get to know them even better soon, big things are on the horizon. -Telekinetic Kat
quick audio picks: 12
Akoya continues to ride their wave of momentum right now by dropping the second single from their forthcoming album, P.D.P. (President Dey Pass). In true Afrobeat fashion, they do it in the form of a pair of quick little thirteen minute...
expand review ditties. "Fela Dey(1)" begins just the way it should, slowly building in complexity with horn arrangements chasing themselves around the track while nice steady guitar and percussion work provides the anchor. The keys and drums then play a little friendly game of tug o' war until the tension releases with an explosion of vocals and horns. Once the groove sets in you be lulled into a very special state where everything begins to blend together, but without feeling directionless or repetitive. The flip features "Wahala(2)" which fans of the Budos will immediately connect with. That tight looseness in the intro just sets things in the right direction. I get the strong feeling from Akoya that they are not trying to rush their ideas or put too many in one song. Everything seems to get proper space to breathe and develop and if anything I almost want some of their songs to stretch out a little more. That says a great deal considering one of my biggest criticisms of all the "Afrobeat" groups that have popped up in the last handful of years is that some of them tend to make some long-ass songs that don't go anywhere just because they know that Fela brought the super-extended heat. So here's to Akoya's continued evolution and their long-ass songs that could actually stand to be a little longer. -Telekinetic Kat
quick audio picks: 12345678910
From the same label that brought you the Biz Markie "Goin' Off" Deluxe edition brings you the BDP deluxe edition. This is really for the fan's fan that just won't be happy with the original catalogue. Besides heaters like "South Bronx(1),"...
expand review "Bridge Is Over(2)," "Poetry(3)," "The P Is Free(4) and the title track(5), you get never before released interviews, The Scott La Rock Mega Mix(6), "Say No Brother(Crack Attack Don't Do It)(7)," The Mos Def borrowed "Stop The Violence(8)," and even a Bladerunner's edit of the "Bridge Is Over(9)." Really drives home the fact that you don't need Protools, Logic, and Ableton to make some timeless music. Scott La Rock and KRS-One was truly the ahead of their time. -C'mish
quick audio picks: 1
The answer to MC Shan's "The Bridge," KRS takes time to flex his South Bronx gut. Little known fact: Marley Marl claims that BDP used his drum real for the beat of Bridge is Over. Seems Marley left his tape at the...
expand review Studio (they "found" it 2 years later) and a couple weeks later the Bridge is Over came out, using Marley's drums. Now that's brutus the barber. B-side is "A Word From Our Sponsors," another of the better songs off the Criminal Minded LP. The intro is the famous shit: long clean tone, then the "prevention against sucka mc's" message. Instrumentals included. -the mgmnt
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