DJ Equipment News & Reviews
DJbooth Pioneer DDJ-SZ Giveaway Contest
For this week’s video entry, we are proud to present another FREE Giveaway of the recently reviewed Pioneer DDJ-SZ Flagship DJ Controller and standalone mixer. The Pioneer DDJ-SZ is one of the most full-featured and most expensive DJ controllers on the planet as it features full-sized jog wheels, a full sized DJM mixer (with DVS and standalone capabilities), and all the Serato DJ pad goodness that one could want. More info after the jump.
[Review] NI KOMPLETE KONTROL S49 & ULTIMATE 10
NI has released their three new MIDI Keyboard controllers that work perfect harmony with the catalog of the musical instruments in the brand new Komplete 10 software packages. The NI Komplete Kontrol S-Series keyboards come in 25-key S25, 49-key S49, and 61-key S61 variants which are all identical in features but differ in size to accommodate the number of keys. Watch our video review of the S49 Komplete Keyboard & Software.
Pro DJ Setups: DJ Rhetorik
In today’s day and age, buying DJ equipment online can be as trustworthy and reliable as that $1,000,000 you just won off a pop-up ad. It is for that reason that we here at DJBoothhave a strong appreciation for our friends over at American Musical Supply and the quality service they provide to not only our readers, but our staff as well. Over the past few weeks, we have teamed up with them to talk with five of the hottest DJs in music today to see what kind of equipment they are rocking. Hit the jump to check out our second partnered DJ, DJ Rhetorik!
Nick Hook Serato Vinyl Pressing [Video]
![Nick Hook Serato Vinyl Pressing [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/seratonickhook.jpg)
Serato DJ has teamed up with Nick Hook, (a NY based performer, DJ, and producer) to bring his new “COLLAGE V.1” four Track EP album to vinyl in Serato fashion. On one side there will be music from the new Nick Hook album, and on the other there will be Serato timecode for DJ’s to use with Serato DJ. Serato has recorded a five-part documentary series which shows Nick’s unique creative process for each track. Check out part one after the jump.
Def Jam 30 Days, 30 DJ’s, 30 Mixes
Def Jam recording label has teamed up with Respect Magazine, iHeart Radio, and 30 DJ’s for the month of November to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Def Jam. Each day they’re releasing a 30 minute mix of each DJ giving their spin of all of the music Def-Jam has released in the last 30 years. So far there is already mixes posted by famous DJ’s like Tony Touch, Big Jeff, Daddy Rich, Boogie Blind, Scratch, Jaycee and Mister Cee. Check out the mixes after the jump.
Pioneer PLX-1000 Turntable Unboxing [Video]
![Pioneer PLX-1000 Turntable Unboxing [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/plx1000.jpg)
The new Pioneer PLX-1000 analog turntables were on hand at the Atlantic City DJ Expo and we were granted an exclusive rundown to let us know what they were all about. This new Turntable has the similar layout of the iconic Technics 1200’s that DJ’s are familiar with along with some Super-OEM DNA and other minor adjustments to set it apart from the others on the market. The PLX-1000 has the Pioneer CDJ looks with the beautiful brushed black finish and silver accents. Check out our unboxing and first impressions video to see what comes in the box.
[Review] Deloop Sport Headphone Bag
The same team that is responsible for my personal favorite DJ Jetpack Backpack has now introduced a line of premium headphone bags to protect and carry premium DJ headphones. Orbit Concepts has released the Deloop lineup of headphone bags. The Deloop bags come in four different models, but the OC team has sent us the Deloop Sport bag to put it through the paces. Check out our full video review to see how they hold up.
Pro DJ Setups: Statik Selektah
In today’s day and age, buying DJ equipment online can be as trustworthy and reliable as that $1,000,000 you just won off a pop-up ad. It is for that reason that we here at DJBoothhave a strong appreciation for our friends over at American Musical Supply and the quality service they provide to not only our readers, but our staff as well. Over the past few weeks, we have teamed up with them to talk with five of the hottest DJs in music today to see what kind of equipment they are rocking. Hit the jump to check out our first partnered DJ, Statik Selektah!
Pioneer PLX-1000 Turntable Jon1st [Video]
The new Pioneer PLX-1000 Turntable maintains the original layout of the iconic Technics 1200’s that DJ’s are familiar with along with some Super-OEM DNA and other minor improvements and adjustments to set it apart from the rest of the pack. The PLX-1000 also has the familiar Pioneer CDJ looks with the beautiful brushed black finish and silver/nickel accents. Check out this quick performance video of Jon1st (2013 World Online DMC Champion) putting the PLX-1000 through the paces.
Monster NCredible NPulse DJ Headphones Unboxing [Video]
![Monster NCredible NPulse DJ Headphones Unboxing [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/ncrediblenpulse.jpg)
Monster has just released a new Headphone that is sponsored by Nick Cannon that is designed for DJ use. The new Monster NCredible NPulse Over-The-Ear Headphones have large plush earcups, a removable cable, and a swivel design for those one-ear monitoring situations. They certainly look like a direct competitor to the Beats and SMS lines and we’ll put them to the proper test in the full review shortly. Check out our unboxing & first impressions video.
Pioneer’s New XDJ-1000 [Video]
![Pioneer’s New XDJ-1000 [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/xdj1000.jpg)
Pioneer DJ has just announced that they are releasing a new lineup of “CD-less” CDJ’s called the XDJ Line. The new XDJ series will feature USB ports to connect to computers for digital software playback like Traktor/Serato or to connect USB drives to DJ straight from the user library using Rekordbox. The first release of the new line is called the Pioneer XDJ-1000 and it features a familiar CDJ layout, an intuitive touch-screen, and more.
[Review] Pioneer HDJ-C70 Headphones
The new Pioneer HDJ-C70 Professional DJ headphones have a compact and lightweight design with 40mm on-ear drivers with comfortable memory foam in the earcups that can rotate 90-degrees in either direction. The Pioneer HDJ-C70 also has removable and replaceable headband, housing, cushions, earcups, and cables which means they can continue to be a “go-to” pair of headphones for a very long time. Check out our review.
Gaslamp Killer Serato Vinyl [Video]
![Gaslamp Killer Serato Vinyl [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/gaslampkillerserato.jpg)
Veteran DJ Gaslamp Killer really does his thing on the turntables with his high energy performances and unique style of music and skill. Serato has teamed up with Gaslamp Killer to bring out his first Vinyl Picture-Disc which includes his new album tracks as well as Serato DJ timecode signals to use with the software. Check out a quick video Blog of how it all went down and to see the pressing process straight from the Vinyl factory with Gaslamp leading the way.
V-MODA XS Headphone Giveaway Contest [Video]
![V-MODA XS Headphone Giveaway Contest [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/vmodaxs.jpg)
For this week’s video entry, we are proud to present another FREE Giveaway of the recently reviewed V-MODA XS Professional on-the-ear Headphones. The V-MODA XS headphones have a really lightweight, low profile, and sleek deisgn with quality durable metal frame and CLIQFOLD Hinge design. The V-MODA XS headphones also have great sound quality, a hardcase for protection, and dual-inputs to daisy-chain with other headphones.
Blazing Cuts October 2014 Mixtape Freestyle Set [Video]
![Blazing Cuts October 2014 Mixtape Freestyle Set [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/bcoct14.jpg)
Earlier Today, I hopped on the Stanton T.120c turntables and the Pioneer DJM-T1 Mixer for a quick freestyle session featuring songs from my newest mixtape release; Blazing Cuts October 2014. Because I felt the itch, I had to get my camera rolling to give you a quick freestyle mixing session with some of my favorite tracks of this latest release. Every month I complete a quick freestyle DJ session while choosing songs from my newest Monthly Mixtape series called “DJ Blaze - Blazing Cuts”. Check out my quick freestyle video session and download/stream my latest October 2014 mixtape for free after the jump.
[Review] Reloop NEON Controller
The Reloop Neon is an official Serato Accessory Controller which allows users to unlock the advanced features within Serato DJ for those who are using DVS systems or DJ controllers without the infamous performance pads. The Serato DJ features that can be controlled from the Neon surface are the SP-6 sampler (with playback-mode LED indicators for each slot), Pad FX, Slicer modes, hotcues, the new Flip Mode, and loop modes.
M-Audio Oxygen Series Keyboard Controllers
While I’m knee deep in the Native Instruments Kontrol S49 Keyboard review, I thought it would be cool to take a look at some inexpensive options for DJ’s looking to step foot into the production realm. M-Audio, which is apart of Numark’s InMusic brands, has just released some affordable controller keyboards with great features to start users on their way to making music.
808 Audio Unveils New Performer Headphones
808 Audio is a new company on the portable audio market that has all types of new sound products including earphones, bluetooth speakers, and headphones. The 808 Audio brand has just announced a new pair of Professional DJ/Studio headphones for the masses called the Performer which sports 40mm over-the-ear drivers and a new unique ear cup suspension technology that allows the headphones to make a perfect seal over the ears.
Traktor Kontrol S8 Out Now [Video]
![Traktor Kontrol S8 Out Now [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/tks8.jpg)
The new Traktor Kontrol S8 Flagship DJ controller is now available for purchase at the many different Native Instruments retailers around the World. The Traktor Kontrol S8 can operate as a completely Stand-Alone 4-channel mixer, it has touch sensitive controls, high quality user-replaceable faders, and dual high resolution screens for all the Traktor information one could need without glancing at their laptop.
[Review] Pioneer DDJ-SZ Controller
The Pioneer DJ Division’s new Flagship Serato DJ controller called the Pioneer DDJ-SZ retains many of the features and functions of the widely popular DDJ-SX, while adding more real estate for a bigger and more professional footprint, bigger full “CDJ-sized” jog wheels, Multi-Color Backlit Performance Pads, Dual USB Ports for seamless transitions, a magnetic MAGVEL crossfader, and a full-blown DJM mixer section with Sound Color FX and DVS capability.
Traktor Pro 2.7 Released
The new Traktor Pro 2.7.0 update is now released and with it comes support for the new Traktor Kontrol S8, the ability to use MK1 or MK2 Traktor timecode vinyl for DVS users, and a host of other improvements. The new Freeze/Slicer mode which was a huge hit on the Traktor DJ App is now available in Traktor 2.7.0 and it can be MIDI mapped to any controller the user sees fit.
Pioneer HDJ-C70 Headphones Unboxing [Video]
The new Pioneer HDJ-C70 Professional DJ headphones have a compact and lightweight design with 40mm on-ear drivers with comfortable memory foam in the earcups that can rotate 90-degrees in either direction. The Pioneer HDJ-C70 also has removable and replaceable headband, housing, cushions, earcups, and cables which means they can continue to be a go-to pair of headphones for a very long time. Check our unboxing video to see the HDJ-C70’s up close.
Mixvibes Cross 2.0 For Android
The new Mixvibes Cross DJ App for the Android system is now getting better and better with its latest 2.0 release. In this newest Cross DJ iteration, the software now allows DJ’s to manipulate and scratch using the waveforms, separate navigation tabs for easy use, key detection, and a BPM synced sampler for mixing.
Reloop NEON Unboxing & First Impressions [Video]
The Reloop Neon is an official Serato DJ Accessory that is similar to the Pioneer DDJ-SP1 which also works with Serato DJ but the Neon is even more compact and is mapped to control all four deck’s pad functions from a single Neon device including: Sampler, Pad FX, Slicer, Looped Slicer, Cue, Flip, Hot Loops, Loop, and Manual Loop. Check out our quick unboxing video to see all that comes inside the package.
[Review] Numark NV Serato DJ Controller
The Brand new Numark NV Controller promises to change the game by adding two 4.3-inch full color displays above each jog wheel deck so that users can see waveforms, cue points, loops, music libraries, effects, and all the other important visual information in Serato so that DJ’s can put the laptop away for good. Check out our full video review to see how the Numark NV handles the task at hand.
Mixvibes Cross 3.3 Track Match
The new version 3.3 update for Mixvibes Cross adds a cool new Track Match feature which shows DJ’s songs that are available within their library that will match via BPM and Key with the song that is currently playing. The Mixvibes Cross 3.3 software update also adds support for 64-bit operating systems for better overall performance, stability, and quality.
Pioneer DDJ-SZ Unboxing & First Impressions [Video]
The new Flagship Pioneer DDJ-SZ Serato DJ Controller has more real estate for a bigger and more professional footprint, bigger full “CDJ-sized” jog wheels, Multi-Color Backlit Performance Pads, Dual USB Ports for seamless transitions, a magnetic MAGVEL crossfader, and a full-blown DJM mixer section with Sound Color FX and DVS capability. We finally have the SZ in the lab for the full out review treatment, but first check out the unboxing video to see it up close.
Optimize Your CPU for Serato DJ [Video]
![Optimize Your CPU for Serato DJ [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/seratodj.png)
Sometimes computers don’t always cooperate with DJ software straight from the factory because there are lots of other processes and programs that are battling it out for precious CPU resources. The Serato team has recognized this trend and decided to release a few short videos to help both PC and MAC users run their Serato DJ software more efficiently and effectively by following some simple CPU optimization steps.
DJ Caesar Releases Buttasoft Crack 9 Mixtape
In between his time on the #WeekendWork Shade45 radio show, DJ Caesar always finds time to show everyone some love by creating these classic (and completely free to download) hip-hop, reggae, and R&B mixtapes. This week Caesar released the newest release in his R&B lineup called the ‘Buttasoft Crack 9’ Mixtape which consists of 16 tracks by different artists like Chris Brown, Tory Lanez, and Jeremih. Download & Stream inside.
Numark NV Unboxing & First Impressions [Video]
The Brand new Numark NV Controller promises to change the game by adding two 4.3-inch full color displays above each jog wheel deck so that users can see waveforms, cue points, loops, music libraries, effects, and all the other important visual information in Serato so that DJ’s can put the laptop away for good. Check out our quick unboxing & first impressions video to see all that comes with the NV before our official Review.
NI Traktor Kontrol S8 Official Launch [Video]
The new Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S8 DJ controller has now officially been announced and all the details have been released by the NI team. The S8 was already teased and leaked about a month ago, but with little details. We now know that the Kontrol S8 will operate as a completely Stand-Alone 4-channel mixer, it has touch sensitive knobs, high quality user-replaceable faders, and dual high resolution screens for all the Traktor information one could need.
[TVR] Blazing Cuts September 2014 Mixtape Freestyle Set
![[TVR] Blazing Cuts September 2014 Mixtape Freestyle Set](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/bcsept14.jpg)
Just a couple of hours ago, I fired up the Stanton ST-150 turntables and the almighty Traktor Z2 Mixer for a quick freestyle session featuring songs from my newest mixtape release; Blazing Cuts September 2014. Back at it once again, I had to get my camera rolling to give you a quick freestyle mixing session with some of my favorite tracks of this latest release. Check out my quick freestyle performance video session and download/stream my latest mixtape.
Komplete Kontrol Keyboard Features [Video]
![Komplete Kontrol Keyboard Features [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/kompletekontrols.jpg)
The all new Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S-Series keyboards come in 25-key S25, 49-key S49, and 61-key S61 variants and they are perfectly mapped for the new Komplete 10 software making it much easier for users to control, navigate, and play the instruments and sounds within the new software. We’ve recently unboxed the new S49 Keyboard and our review is coming soon. In the meantime, check out the Komplete Kontrol feature details video to see what these keyboards have to offer.
LyxPro HAS-20 Headphone Giveaway Contest [Video]
![LyxPro HAS-20 Headphone Giveaway Contest [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/lyxprohas20.jpg)
For this week’s video entry, we are proud to present another FREE Giveaway of the recently reviewed LyxPro HAS-20 Professional over-the-ear Headphones. The LyxPro HAS-20 headphones have large 50mm over-the-ear drivers, good passive isolation, and a folding/swivel design for easy transport and one-ear monitoring. To enter the giveaway all you have to do is subscribe to the youtube channel and leave a comment in the video.
Serato DJ 1.7.1 Update with Akai AMX Support
Serato has just announced that its new Serato DJ 1.7.1 update has been released to add support for the new Akai AMX modular mixing controller and for regular housekeeping bug fixes. Check out our quick first impressions video of the Akai AMX that we completed at the 2014 DJ Expo two months ago and the full press release including all of the new improvements in the Serato DJ 1.7.1 update.
Epsilon INNO-PRO PAK Comparison [Video]
![Epsilon INNO-PRO PAK Comparison [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/innopropak.jpg)
Epsilon Pro has recently release a new starter DJ package for only $799 that includes two brand new Super-OEM turntables and a two-channel mixer with a built in Mini-Innofader crossfader for good cuts and mixing. So good in fact that Epsilon teamed up with DJ Ricky J who performs an advanced turntable routine on a $3400 Pioneer setup and then performs the same exact routine on the $799 Epsilon INNO-PRO PAK.
KOMPLETE KONTROL S49 & KOMPLETE ULTIMATE 10 Unboxing [Video]
NI has now released their three new MIDI Keyboard controllers that work in conjunction with the catalog of music creation tools in the brand new Komplete 10 Ultimate software package. The NI Komplete Kontrol S-Series keyboards come in 25-key S25, 49-key S49, and 61-key S61 variants and today we’ll open the Kontrol S49 mid-sized keyboard and the Komplete 10 Ultimate software on video to show you everything that’s included in the package.
Alto Professional TX Series Speakers
Alto Professional has just introduced a brand new line-up of powered speakers that are lightweight, versatile in setup, and affordable in price. The new Alto Professional TX Series line of two-way, active loudspeakers include the TX8, TX10, TX12 and TX15 with different size woofers apparent in the naming. Each TX features a bi-amplified design, high-efficiency drivers, trapezoidal enclosures, and steel grilles for protection.
Pioneer DDJ-WeGO3 Serato DJ Intro Demo [Video]
![Pioneer DDJ-WeGO3 Serato DJ Intro Demo [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/ddjwego3.jpg)
Pioneer has just released the third iteration in their entry-level DJ controller called the Pioneer DDJ-WeGO3. Long ago, we reviewed the original DDJ-WeGO and it was a great controller for any new DJ and it had versatility to work with many different software. The DDJ-WeGO3 continues where the original left off with a new sleeker design, stronger construction, and an included iOS lightning cable that also charges the iOS device while in use. Check out the new Serato DJ Intro performance video with the DDJ-WeGO3.
[Review] LyxPro HAS-20 Headphones
A brand new NJ-Based company called LyxPro has just released a new set of headphones that are advertised as being great for DJ’s and Sound professionals for monitoring situations. The LyxPro HAS-20 headphones have large 50mm over-the-ear drivers, good passive isolation, and a folding/swivel design for easy transport and one-ear monitoring. Let’s see how they hold well they work for DJ’s in the DJbooth.
New UDG Creator Controller Hardcases
UDG has followed up the release of the new entry-level Urbanite series with a new entry-level line of DJ controller hardcases that will protect many different devices while still coming in at a great price point for the end user. The new UDG Creator Controller Hardcases are very similar to the smaller Hardcases by UDG that we reviewed in the past, but they come in four different sizes to fit almost every DJ controller on the market.
Mixware: Magma Riot Backpack [Video]
![Mixware: Magma Riot Backpack [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/magmabackpack.jpg)
Mixware.net is always bringing Magma products to the United States so that the North American DJ’s won’t be left out. Introducing the Magma Riot Backpack and the Riot Backpack XXL. These new backpacks which come in different sizes are perfect for housing controllers, mixers, soundcards, laptops, tablets, or anything DJ’s need to get to the gig on time. Check out the Mixware.net Videos of the new Backpacks to see them close up.
DJ Caesar & Remy Ma on Shade 45 #WeekendWork [Video]
![DJ Caesar & Remy Ma on Shade 45 #WeekendWork [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/djcaesarnew.jpg)
Our Very Own Resident DJ Caesar is back with another great interview on the Weekend Work radio show on Shade 45 in NYC with Female Rapping Phenomenon Remy Ma. Check out the full video interview as Remy Ma speaks on many different subjects including her thoughts on the Mayweather fight, her aspirations to start her own new female Battle Rap league, and what she’s been doing since her “vacation”.
[Review] Allen & Heath Xone:23C Mixer
The new Allen & Heath two-channel Xone:23C professional DJ mixer is the natural successor to the Xone:22 mixer and it also adds the internal USB DJ soundcard to easily connect to DJ software. The Xone:23C has excellent build quality, an internal USB DJ soundcard with DVS capabilities, Mixvibes LE software, and an X:Link connector to easily link to other Allen & Heath Xone:K series controllers. Check out the review to see if it lives up to the Xone standards.
[Review] Allen & Heath Xone:K1 MIDI Controller
Allen & Heath’s newest modular MIDI controller called the Xone:K1 is essentially a Xone:K2 MIDI controller but without the built-in stereo soundcard interface and MIDI layering capabilities. The Xone:K1 is a universal MIDI controller that can be mapped/programmed to work with any DJ software and it has six push-button rotary encoder knobs, 12 knobs, four faders, and 30 three-color backlit performance buttons to take precise control over specific software functions. Check out our full Video review to see the features of this modular MIDI controller.
NI Traktor Kontrol S8 Preview [Video]
![NI Traktor Kontrol S8 Preview [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/traktorkontrols8.jpg)
The Traktor Kontrol S8 was leaked by Amazon and various other sources earlier this month and even though we already knew what this was, we decided to keep quiet until NI themselves let the cat out of the bag. They did so yesterday with a new Teaser Video showing various parts of the new Traktor Kontrol S8 and the shiny new screens that DJ’s can use for playback rather than looking at the computer screen.
DJ Jazzy Jeff Presents Thre3Style 2014 [Video]
![DJ Jazzy Jeff Presents Thre3Style 2014 [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/jazzyjeffthre3style.jpg)
The RedBull annual Thre3Style DJ competition is probably the most versatile and premier DJ battle face-off that combines all of the top three skills that the World’s best DJ exhibit. These three skills consist of song selection, technical skill, and the ability to rock a crowd. Check out this quick documentary video by none other than Legendary DJ Jazzy Jeff as he takes us all on the journey through the 2014 RedBull Thre3Style DJ Competition.
Best DJ Headphones Under $100 [Video]
![Best DJ Headphones Under $100 [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/zinkengrey.jpg)
In our next video for the weekly video series, I will share with you my favorite or personal best DJ headphones for under $100. DJ headphones need to be rugged and durable, while providing good isolation and high volume levels for accurate monitoring during a performance. The Urbanears Zinken check all of these boxes and much more.
Novation Audiohub 2x4 Soundcard [Video]
![Novation Audiohub 2x4 Soundcard [Video]](http://static.djbooth.net/pics-equip/audiohub2x4.jpg)
Novation has always been bringing producers and live performers excellent controllers to apply their trade on and they’ve finally introduced a companion Soundcard and USB hub device to make it easy to connect all of that MIDI goodness to a hardware setup. The new Novation Audiohub 2x4 soundcard has a three-port USB hub, two inputs, and four outputs to connect all of the setup to a computer and other sound systems.
New UDG Entry-Level Urbanite Series Sleeves & Bags
UDG has been protecting DJ’s gear and accessories for quite a long time now and they have introduced a new entry-level line of sleeves and bags that come in at a great price point. The new UDG Urbanite sleeves and bags are made of heavy duty nylon and contain a good amount of foam and padding to protect many different size controllers and gear that are popular with today’s DJ’s.
New Decksavers for Roland & Korg
Decksavers is our absolute favorite way to protect DJ gear here at the DJbooth.net Labs. We have Decksavers for the Stanton ST.150’s, the Traktor Z2 mixer, the NI Maschine Studio, the Vestax VCI-400, and a cover for the Traktor Kontrol S4. Decksaver continues to add to their lineup with the new covers being released for various production pieces in the Roland Aira and Korg Volca ranges.
