Control MIDI

Moog Releases Multi-pedal OS 2.0 DV and MIDI Controller

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 19:55:00 +0000

Want to go really high-end with your footwork? Try this foot pedal on for size. The super foto control gadget - the MP-201 Multi-Pedal CV and MIDI Controller from Moog has received an software upgrade. It is now on OS 2.0. Supports MIDI to CV conversions, has loopable envelope generators and more. Full details of the brand new awesomeness can be found at http://www.moogmusic.com/controllers/.

From Moog: -

Introducing Multi-Pedal OS 2.0

There’s good news for all you control freaks out there. Moog’s mighty Multi-Pedal has received a major software upgrade. OS 2.0 adds a host of new features that cements the Multi-Pedal’s position as the premier Analog, MIDI and USB Control Hub.

Connect, Control & Create with MP-201 Multi-Pedal.

Multi-Pedal Quick Start Guide
Hit the ground running with these basic Multi-Pedal applications

Multi-Pedal Power
An overview for power-users

Multi-Pedal - Basic Moogerfooger Applications
Control your Moogerfooger pedal board

Multi-Pedal - Basic MIDI Applications
Control your MIDI effects, Moogerfoogers and more

source

Motu Releases Ultralite MK3 Hybrid USB2.0/FireWire Portable Audio Interface

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 19:43:00 +0000

Just the other day I was thinking about getting a new audio interface for my old MacBook. But then I realized that if I buy a new quad-core iMac next year like I am planning to, I should probably for USB2.0 interfaces.

Problem is that my MacBook has a FireWire 400 port and the new iMacs have only one FW800 port and multiple USB2.0 ports. So I was looking at all sorts of convertible cable debates online. And now I notice that Motu had released this!

It is a hybrid version of their extremely popular UltraLite mk3 Firewire Interface. It is a small and portable interface that is built to last. I am seriously thinking about buying this. Let's see what happens.

MPK88 Keyboard MIDI Controller In Stores Now

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 19:30:00 +0000

Those who want a solid, travel-ready keyboard MIDI controller that has full 88 hammer action keys at an affordable price - the AKAI MPK88 is going at a reasonable price now that it is finally here.

Other than the fact that owning the MPK49 has really made me like the entire line, I also know that the other keyboard controllers (edrirol's, m-audio's) pale in comparison. I have tried them all out and I have come to the same conclusion. The MPK88 also has 16pads (4x4) instead of 12pads (4x3). The rest is more or less the same, with the same great build quality. And both the customizability and the ability to change almost everything on-the-fly is something that I really appreciate. Makes it a breeze to use it with different DAWs and all.

I really like my MPK, you can tell can't you?

It is selling for $799 at Musician's Friend, Zzounds and W&B. The last one has a lowest price guarantee, so you can check them out.

Livid Instruments Brings Out Block MIDI Controller

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 17:31:00 +0000

Not sure if all you guys have seen this yet, so I am posting about it. Towards the ned of last month, Livid Instruments (those really great guys who made the Ohm64 controller), unveiled the Block MIDI Controller for interactive audio performance. This is basically like the Akai APC 40 or the Novation Launchpad and has a matrix of light up buttons, two faders and 8 pots. Looks like it is pretty solidly built and is really portable. It also looks like something that can easily be used with Ableton Live. What say?

As you might know, Livid Instruments folks lean towards live video performance and hence this is integrated with the Cell DNA video software as you can see in the video below. This new interface is meant to be something as minimal as the monome and (hopefully) as versatile. Lemme know if any of you have checked it out. Would love to hear what you think about it.

Check out the Block controlling Ableton Live

Word from Livid Instruments: -

Block is a compact and programmable MIDI control surface designed for interactive audio performance. Built on the same bi-directional and adaptable platform as the Ohm64, Block provides a powerful interface for creating and interacting with sound in a small easy-to-transport body. Sixty four backlight led buttons provide endless possibilities for visual feedback with the instrument by connecting it to Ableton Live, Max/Msp, our open source sounds apps, or any other software that supports MIDI. The open source blockEditor application lets you reprogram any of the controller's sixty four clip buttons, eight knobs, two faders, and seven function buttons. Block is hand crafted from lightweight wood and aluminum for easy portability.

Block has bi-directional talkback communication allowing the controller to talk to your software, and software to your device. MIDI messages can be sent to the Block to light up the buttons for an interactive performance. Completely programable and mappable, block provides a flexible control surface that be used with any software or setup. Completely USB powered means you don’t have to worry about adapters and and power strips, and it is plug and play so no drivers are required.

Features

Portability
A compact and lightweight design lets you slip this controller into your backpack. Plug it into your computer's USB, and you are powered to play. more>

Design
Block is completely plug and play and USB powered. This means you don’t need drivers to use it and it works with a single USB cable. more>

TalkBack
Reprogrammable buttons with LED talkback provides visual feedback by sending MIDI commands back to the controller. more>

Software
A growing collection of open source sound applications and utilities provide a wide range of uses and endless customization. more>

Home Grown
All of our controllers are handcrafted by artists with care in our Austin, Texas shop. more>

Specs
Technical specifications and details of the of the block controller. more>

And we're back in business

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 16:49:00 +0000

Okay, so that's not me or my cat but that is sort of how I feel :P, Image credit: Sappymoosetree

Yes, I know I have not been posting for a long time. Professional obligations insisted that I spend most of my waking hours hacking away at the keyboard in a zombie-like manner. But now that I have more or less broken even, I am catching up on my music and my gear-lust for the latest in midi controllers.

I am also thinking of moving this blog to a WordPress one. What do you guys think? It will give you more features for navigating and searching through the blog. And it will be more cool looking of course! :D

Incidentally, do you like this template? or should I change to a simpler one? Let me know through the comments section. I moderate everything personally here, so you are guaranteed a response (eventually, from a sleep depp'd me :P ).

Till later!

Native Instruments Kontrol X1 DJ Controller

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 15:27:00 +0000

Native Instruments is really having a go at the digital DJ with their various products. Not to mention the fact that they are also making waves in the electronic producer circuits with products like Maschine and Komplete suite of virtual instruments and tools.

Their Traktor DJ-ing software is now more or less standard amongst DJs world over and gives serious competition to Serato's Scratch and and ITCH with more versatility and sophistications, especially since Traktor Pro was released and updated.

So now they have gone ahead and made a dedicated midi controller for Traktor users and are calling it Kontrol X1. They developed it with Traktor's favorite poster boy Richie Hawtin. This product has been in development for a long time and even though both NI and Hawtin were pretty much mum about details, the thing has been spied and leaked multiple times over. Now we finally have the official take, so enjoy!

From Vestax: -

From the makers of TRAKTOR comes TRAKTOR KONTROL X1 - the first official TRAKTOR controller for use with any DJ software. Whether you are a DVS timecode or software DJ, simply connect the TRAKTOR KONTROL X1 to a computer running TRAKTOR (or other performance software) and gain instant control of your decks and effect parameters. Robust rotary knobs with a heavy-duty feel and backlit buttons provide precise visual and tactile status feedback- letting you delve deep inside TRAKTOR without having to touch your computer.

TRAKTOR KONTROL X1 features a total of 30 buttons, 4 push encoders and 8 knobs arranged in the following sections:

1. EFFECTS SECTION
8 high resolution potentiometers and 8 buttons make up the effect section of TRAKTOR KONTROL X1. This section allows control of all the parameters of 2 TRAKTOR effect units simultaneously. In Chained mode, this means simultaneous control over 3 effects per deck. The effects section buttons are programmed to give direct access to 3 of your favorite effect presets.

2. BROWSE SECTION
One push encoder per deck is dedicated to browsing through play lists and loading tracks. Simply turn the push encoder to find the track you want, and push it to load it into the corresponding deck. Once the track is loaded the same encoders seek through the track, using tempo sync'd beat jumps to remain in time.

3. LOOP SECTION
This section allows for intuitive control of TRAKTOR's loop function, giving clear visual feedback about the loop status via LEDs. The section offers first level access to auto loops and manual loops as well as loop editing functions such as loop size and loop position, both coarse and fine.

4. TRANSPORT SECTION
This section provides direct access to basic playback controls as well as shifted access to 8 secondary functions for each deck. All buttons for industry standard workflows (Play, Sync, Cue + Cup) are located here. Switch to hotcue mode and you get another 16 buttons for controlling the 8 hot cues or hot loops per track. Plus, the CUP button flashes in time with the deck's BPM as an added visual mix aid.

Use TouchOSC To Control Ableton, Natasha Shows You How

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 15:25:00 +0000

iPhone TouchOSC: Natasha and the Reject from Natasha and the Reject on Vimeo.

This is a video by Natasha and the Reject, using the TouchOSC app as an OSC to MIDI Controller for Ableton Live.

Sourced via Synthopia

Maschine Turns 1.1

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 15:16:00 +0000

Heads up people, NI has just released the Maschine 1.1 Update. Maschine is a new wave hardware/software combo that allows you to use your laptop like an MPC through a hardware controller. But there are quite a few advantages to Maschine that you will not get with the MPC machines and that has mainly to do with the flexibility that software tools have.

Anyway, I would've gone on to describe the the 1.1 version but this three part video series from its makers do a far better job. So Ima let 'em finish ;).

PS - nearly forgot to tell you that it is available (the update that is) for free to all Maschine Users From The NI wesbite. Check it out here - http://www.native-instruments.com/#/en/products/producer/maschine/overview/maschine-11/?page=1225 yee haw!

PPS - Found a cool video of the Maschine in Live action. (last video was, erm... sorry about that one!)

Novation Launchpad finally available

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:42:00 +0000

If you have been looking forward to this fantastic alternative to the APC 40, your wait is finally over. This beauty has hit the stores earlier this month and the user verdicts have been pouring in -- it's a hit! Also, looks like people have been hacking away at it too! Check out this video.

Vestax Ships TR-1 Traktor MIDI Controller

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:35:00 +0000

Vestax has developed yet another laptop friendly USB midi controller for Traktor. If you want a feel that matches professional Vestax Mixers, this looks like the perfect controller to use. Features no jog wheels or all that, just sheer practicality and build quality. Does not contain a soundcard though. It has been available since 2 Nov '09.

Official Word From Vestax:-

The TR-1 is a compact, user-friendly controller designed to emulate the touch and feel of a traditional DJ mixer while providing the features and usability that professionals demand in a laptop-based system.

Working directly with Watanabe over 2-1/2 years, the Vestax design team has created an easy-to-use, compact and logical design with an array of faders, switches and rotary controllers tuned to combine the natural touch of a DJ mixer with the advanced functionality offered by Native Instruments Traktor software. By merging ease of use with advanced software command, the TR-1 offers new creative possibilities for computer-based DJs.

The TR-1 features seamless command of Traktor Pro software for control of up to four laptops through two program channels. Key features include soft-push switches and smooth 60mm slide faders for high-precision mixing, with an adjustable Input Fader curve to adapt to any mixing style. A new Shift switch feature allows the user to customize control functions by assigning a second command to a single button.

All standard controls are present and accounted for – tempo faders with pitch bend, three-band EQ with pan on both sides, back and forward cue controls, dual effects loops per side, and more. And connectivity is USB-easy.

The Vestax TR-1 comes bundled with Native Instruments Traktor LE software, can command over 160 parameters right out of the box, including live signal processing effects, beat matching, loop programming, filter sweeping and EQ sweetening in real time. Both the TR-1 and Traktor LE software are compatible with both Windows (XP, Vista) and Mac (OS 10.4 or higher) operating systems. Please see our website for full details on minimum system requirements.

Visually, the TR-1 feature's the traditional Vestax white gold faceplate and knobs, housed in a compact, road-tough chassis design that ensures reliability on tour. Hardware features include adjustable brightness of the surface's LED lights for adaptability to any working conditions, and all control knobs are ergonomically designed for easy grabbing and smooth, noise-free adjustment.

Vestax And Djay Software Makers Make New MIDI Controller

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:30:00 +0000

If you are a fan of the Djay software for Mac OS, you will love this new controller. Vestax and DJay together bring you a new controller Called Spin. Made to look like the VCI series, this is definitely part of a family of heavy duty controllers.

For those who don't know, DJay is an easy to use software that is meant for bedroom DJs and casual users who are just looking to throw some tunes together. Features include full auto mode. superb iTunes integration and more.

Image taken from Djay Website.

Pioneer Dawn of A New Species Pictures

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 17:18:00 +0000

So Pioneer has recently been fueling our imaginations with all this new species thing. I do want to know what's going on but there's only about a week or so left before they reveal what's really going on. With so much hype all over the internet, I sure hope they know what they are doing!

After all, tempting us with this is one thing. Then delivering an HDD-based Serato ITCH controller is another thing. Pioneer, your new species better be very new mate.

But what are the odds here? We already have HDD-based table tops. We already have MIDI controllers. We already have Hybrids in between. So what is this now? And I hope Pioneer will go the SSD way because HDDs are known to drop out because the bass thump is usually too much in the booth.
Enjoy the voyeurism ;)

Mixxx Hits 1.7.0!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 21:49:00 +0000

Well, you guys probably don't know this yet but I am a great supported of Free (Libre) Open Source Software. It is a great thing for enthusiasts and developers all over the place. Sadly, there aren't too many of them around for us Music/Sound guys but there are a few.

One of those is Mixx – a truly cross-platform Dj-ing tool that works even on Linux! That's right. They have recently hit 1.7.0 and that is a bug deal you guys! I just wanted to show them my support and give you guys a heads up by blogging about them. Pay them a visit at - http://www.mixxx.org and download the software at http://www.mixxx.org/download.php. It is absolutely, completely, one hundred percent, no-catch, free forever! Music to the recession bitten (y)ears.

Have fun!

Audio Interfaces/Sound Cards for MIDI Controllers - Working Live

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 11:55:00 +0000

This post has been a long time coming. My sincere apologies to Vilhelm to whom I promised this post and then got delayed two weeks over what I said. Anyway, better late than than never I guess!

So the idea for this post and inspiration was given to me by a reader called Vilhelm. He brought up the topic saying that there really wasn't that much info on the internet about which audio interfaces/sound cards can be used with MIDI Controllers that lack built-in sound.

Now theoretically, you can actually go ahead and use any damn audio interface you want. Anything that floats your boat that gets the job done is the right one to use. But there are some that work better than others and in this post I am going to focus on the the controllers I would choose for working live.

The reason why I am choosing live situations is because – a)That's what got me in to MIDI Controllers in the first place and b)It is often the situation where people want to know which ones are the most suitable.

If you are solo performer things will be that much simpler. However, if you decide to hook up for some live PA action – that is where problems begin. DJs do not have this problem though. They will just plug in to the same Mixer and be done with. But if you are a modern DJ who uses a laptop and a controller, hooking up might be confusing. For this, I find the best solution is to either hook up to the same analogue mixer and output from their or use an audio interface that has robust I/O and routing capabilities.

For now, here are some of the smaller audio interfaces that can used in Live situations (i.e. with laptops). Most of them are meant for recording situations but they have the requisite I/Os and dedicated monitoring capabilities to work for live situations. All of the images link to their product pages where you can get more detailed information about them and also find some user reviews and ratings.

My first option would be the Apogee Duet for simple and high quality audio interface. Although it is meant for recording, it can be translated in to live performance. It has balanced and unbalanced inputs. Two outputs for powered speakers and also headphone monitoring. You will be losing out on the functionality of the knob but you have your MIDI Controller for those works. This is a FireWire 400 audio interface and should be used with a Mac. For new MacBooks, Apogee has a FW800 to FW400 adapter.

Next are the purpose built audio 8 and audio 4 Dj audio interfaces from Native Instruments. These are made for DJs and performers who want pro quality sound. With switchable inputs and cool number of outputs, you will have all your bases covered.

This here is the Presonus Inspire 1394 FireWire audio interface. I am deliberately choosing smaller interfaces so that they are easier to carry (and okay to keep in public view). Presonus has a name for making good quality audio interfaces and this one is a favorite for small start up home and project studios. It has separate headphone and line outs. Works on both OS X and Windows. It has balanced mic inputs as well so you can have someone MC-ing along. This boxes can be daisy-chained, so you can have up to 16 inputs and proportionate outputs with multiple Presonus Inspire boxes.

If you want a USB interface for REALLY cheap, you have the Behnringer UControl UCA202 USB audio interface at your disposal. At only $30, you cannot be asking for more than what it already provides. It gives you a pair in and a pair out with separate headphone monitoring (1/4") and it even has digital audio out via the optical S/PDIF out.

This piece from Mackie has been on my radar for quite some time now. Even though Mackie is not primarily known for making audio interfaces, this is a great little piece that will serve double purposes. The Mackie Onyx Satellite is a FireWire Interface that has two parts. The pod and the dock. The idea here is that the pod can be carried along for location work and the dock will stay attached to your studio back home. Why this appeals to me is because for under $200 I can get something that will essentially act as two separate audio interfaces. Once I am done with my live work, I can easily come back to my studio and plug the pod back in, without having to worry about rewiring the entire thing. After all, I do not have the budget to buy two audio interfaces! I am just a poor musician.

Since this is the Control MIDI blog and this post is about audio interfaces, I cannot help but mention this nifty little piece from Native Instruments. This is another purpose built audio interface meant for working with software and it incorporates MIDI functionality. So this can act as your secondary controller. It is meant to be used with a few specific apps but since there's MIDI, it is as good as a second MIDI controller waiting to be mapped to your favorite software. It is a FireWire device and works on both Mac and Windows.

Stanton brings this piece of audio interface goodie that has all the I/Os a digital DJ can ever need. The Stanton Final Scratch Scratchamp is a FireWire Interface and has 2 pairs of output and 2 pairs of input along with 1 pair of auxiliary input and one balanced mic input. That's everything you will ever need onstage. Further more, Stanton advertises this as a system meant for audio apps like Live and MixVibes.

This is the second most expensive piece that I am going to mention on this post. This is the Stanton SCS.1m Digital Mix Controller. This amazing piece that has scribble strips, infinite rotary knobs and a four channel setup for one helluva digital DJ-ing experience. It is also a great FireWire audio interface that has been designed for DJs and live performers. This one retails for about $600-800 depending on where you are buying it form.

And this is just for kicks because most of us mere mortals do not need this kind of power. This by far the most expensive piece on this post. It has amazing Allen&Heath audio quality. The name speaks for itself. It is an interface that has a lot of MIDI control, everything glows under UV and a lot of them are backlit. All in all, if you want to blow about $2800 on some fantastic audio and MIDI gear – this beast is it.

---

When it comes to using audio interfaces at home with your MIDI controllers, your choice is completely your choice. It is only restricted by the laptop/desktop that you are using and the amount that you are willing to spend on it. If you any of you guys and gals have suggestions, do drop a line. I will add the thing on the list. Till next time, keep 'em fingers busy! And if you are planning to buy something in the mean time, it is a good time to head over to MusiciansFriend.com. They are are having a grand sale, look below:

Save Up to 90% on Almost Everything at MusiciansFriend.com (exp: 8/31)

Ableton MIDI Controller: AKAI APC40 Ableton Performance Controller Review

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:35:00 +0000

Ableton MIDI Controller: AKAI APC40 Ableton Performance Controller Review

The NAMM has always been a place where a lot of excitement gathers and everything sort of goes into the public domain as soon as the news is released. So it came as a surprise to no one that the news of a new, ‘officially approved’ Ableton Live Controller would spread like absolute wildfire.

Since it was first announced at the 2009 NAMM, it has been the center of attraction within the community of Live users. Nothing has garnered so much attention from the Live users than the APC40. Not even the announcement of Cycling ’74 bringing the flexibility of Max/MSP to Live. Let’s face it, that one was a bit too technical to suit t he taste of the masses.

But this delectable offering from the MPC making people at Akai has caught everyone’s attention. So here we go, taking a headlong plunge in to the depths of the APC40 and see what it’s all about.

The APC40 brings back the ‘Live’ part into Ableton Live. It is a MIDI Controller, true but it is more than that. It is like an instrument that let’s you do whatever you want with it. It allows the user to harness everything that is Ableton Live. And that very statement should tell you how much potential it carries.

Let’s take a quick look at the main features: -

Every control on the damn this is customizable and that means every pot, slider and button
The clip launch button matrix with multicolor feedback is an absolute first in a consumer product. And it completely sells the product (else it is not very different from the MPD32).
Session overview
Mixer Section
Transport control
Track Selection and Device Control Encoders
Track Control
Tempo control

There’s a crossfader yes, but it is too darn close to the Stop, Play and Record buttons. So don’t expect to be busting out two click flares on this one.

And once the Max for Live is completely implemented, you can use the grid like a step sequencer (or anything else that you want actually!)

You might have had a lot of controllers before that claimed to ‘Plug ‘n Play’ but we know where those things went. You’d either spending way too much time figuring out what was going on or it wouldn’t work at all. Well, you will be glad to hear that with this baby, it is all about connecting the USB cable and firing up Live on your system. Once you’ve done that, you are all set to do whatever you want with it.

The two-way communication (apparently proprietary) between the APC40 and Live makes the controller reflect (almost) everything that is happening within the software and vice-versa. So the problem of not knowing what the heck is going on in there is gone now.

The controller is not hard to figure out at all and is actually very intuitive. Those who have been working with Ableton for a while now will not need the Quickstart manual at all. For those have started on Live only yesterday, there’s a handy manual that familiarizes you with the major areas of the controller, but that’s where it ends.

The APC40 is very well laid out and made to reflect the session view as much as possible. So you have the clip launching button matrix and 8 faders corresponding to the columns. There is a 9^th fader that represents the master line fader. So if you can get your head around the basics of Live, you will easily know what’s what on the APC40.

As is usual with Akai, the construction quality of the APC is really good. So it is safe to take it on several tours without needing to mollycoddle it. It has a metal chassis that instantly reminds of my own MPK49 from Akai. The side panels are rubber textured and have a solid and non-slip feel to them. With so many rubber buttons on thing you will really want to start messing around as soon as possible.

A lot of people have complained about the ‘plasticky’ feel of the knobs and they are justified in saying that. Rubberized knobs would’ve been a great idea because both the stage and the booth tend to get sweaty. There have also been complaints about the faders being too close together. But there is a flipside to this one where people are saying that they like being able to control two or more faders with one hand. So this one is a matter of personal choice it seems. However, all the controls are placed firmly within the circuit board and hence feel sturdy enough to take abuse.

The clip launching button matrix/grid has an 8x5 layout. The buttons have four states in total: -

Off – No clip present in the slot

Amber – Clip present but not playing

Green – Clip present and playing

Red – Recording.

All that is really intuitive, so no worrying about what means what. Once again, if you know live this will be a cinch to pickup. There’s a row of buttons directly below the grid. These are clip stop buttons, one dedicated button for each track. Beneath that is a row of track select buttons that choose which track is being controlled by the knobs on the APC. Tracks in Live are the vertical rows of clips that have a name or number assigned to them at the top.

Below these are three rows of half buttons. From top row to bottom, these toggle track mute, Solo/cue and Arm Record respectively.

Ableton Session view is called that for a reason. It has become the default choice for those who are developing interfaces for the live. This has already been proven by the likes of Ohm from Livid and Monome from the Monome Project. But the main complaint is about the layout of the knobs on the APC. Having such crucial controls as bank select, tempo nudge, shift and tap tempo in the middle of all that knob real estate is actually a bit cramped. Most people have taken issues with the ergonomics of the APC and that is mainly where the APC loses points. Some also have pointed out that it is a right hand oriented setup.

However, there is a large group of people who said that will just get used to the new setup after a few sessions with it. So for some it is not that big a deal and certainly not a deal breaker.

Regardless of the different things that people have to say about the layout, one thing has hooked them all – they all love the lighting around the knobs. These LED position indicators are simply great to look.

A lot of people (including me) would’ve liked to have some more buttons underneath the knobs to make the thing more customizable. Even though we can live with that, I cannot for the life of me understand why anyone would put something like a crossfader so close to the transport controls! I mean really! One missed crossfade or cut and your entire set is ruined because you accidentally hit a transport button!

The multicolored LEDS were a great idea and I love the feedback they give out. The USB interface is great as well. The thing does not crash even when a lot is going on within the software. But since the only thing that is flowing through the USB is MIDI data, it cannot be too much for modern USB2.0 standards that are known to handle not only live MIDI but also live Audio quite well without failing. Just make sure that you have a good USB2.0 cable. Apparently there is a difference and I sure would not like to find out the hard way.

So that covers everything that I wanted to say about the APC40. Should Akai want to bring out another version (and it really should) – they should concentrate more on the ergonomics and well – read these reviews! J

Catch you people later!

Oh, and here's the official description and a place to buy: -

Akai APC40 Ableton Performance Controller
The Akai APC40 Ableton Performance Controller is designed to be a powerful, intuitive controller for electronic-music performance artists, DJs, hip-hop producers and traditional musicians using Ableton Live on stage and in the studio. Virtual view The APC40 talks directly to Ableton Live and Live talks directly to the APC40. This exclusive bidirectional communication makes the Akai Professional APC40 an advanced controller that receives feedback from the software and displays it on its clip matrix of 40 triggers, and on LED rings surrounding each knob. The clip matrix gives you an instant view of clip status: what's loaded, what's playing, and what's being recorded. Each state displays on the matrix in a different color so you quickly get a picture of clip state. Shift your clip focus and get an overview of the clips you have loaded for your set. The Akai APC40 controller has 16 knobs, each surrounded by a ring of LEDs. These LED rings indicate the currently selected parameters' values, and make seeing your settings on dark stages a breeze. The APC40 controller's advanced visual feedback focuses your performing with focused more on the music and less on squinting at the computer screen. In fact, you might even forget that the computer is there. Premium controls Ableton selected Akai Professional as a partner because of its leadership position in great-feeling controllers that are rock solid, rugged, and precise. From the legendary MPC series that changed the way music is made to the industry-standard MPD and MPK controllers, Akai Professional is revered by musicians, DJs, and producers everywhere for creating the feel that powers their creativity. The APC40 is built with a rugged, metal chassis and slip-proof rubber detailing. Knobs and faders are solid and precise for pinpoint performance. It even features a high quality, replaceable crossfader.Creative control The Akai APC40 controller comes with a special edition of Ableton Live Lite so you can use it out of the box even if you're new to Live. There's also a free patch that upgrades full versions of Live so if you're already a Live user, you can take full advantage of the APC40. The APC40 has two banks of eight knobs. The first set controls Global parameters so you'll always have instant access to your main sends, pans, and other essentials. The second bank of eight knobs is dynamically reassigned to the Track you select. You can control eight track parameters at a time, and as you switch channels, the Track knobs follow your focus. You also get special clip-status views and feedback that only the APC40's matrix can display. The matrix is not limited to only 40 clips: you can scroll and shift, enabling access to an unlimited number of cells. The APC40 has a wide range of controllers. The eight Global knobs can access four banks of controls; the eight Track knobs control nine different track parameters each. This gives you a massive total of 72 controller

Special images courtesy antonio19 at photobucket - http://media.photobucket.com/image/apc40/antonio913/SNC10948.jpg?o=12

Numark DJ Game Scratch Deck Controller Thingy

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 08:46:00 +0000

Sometimes I really wonder why I even try to garner some respect as a DJ. With people making such silly games out of scratching and Dj-ing and not even including DJs in the promo, this is getting really stupid right now. Anyway, so Numark has debuted a Scratch deck controller for a DJ game and it looks like - what else, a Guitar hero-esque controller, only it look like a turntable and not a guitar.

Well, I guess the argument that it will make DJ-ing more popular does have a point. But yet again we see that rappers get more importance in the promo and this is a game ON DJ-ing for crying out loud! I mean serioulsy people, put Q-Bert, Mix Meister Mike or even Asian Hawk on the promos! Why do you start with Jay-Z and Eminem? Anyway, ranting aside, the game might be promising and it will let non-musical people enjoy the art of Dj-ing. May be kinds will buy more turntables than ever before.
We shall see.

Here's the promo video (yeah well, it is animated and all, what do you expect to see? This is no Metal Gear Solid Or Final Fantasy :P )

NUMARK AND GENIUS PRODUCTS REVEAL SCRATCH: THE ULTIMATE DJ VIDEOGAME CONTROLLER FOR XBOX 360® AND PLAYSTATION®3

Designed by Leading DJ Technology Manufacturer, SCRATCH DECK Gives Players an Authentic DJ Experience Like No Other

Cumberland, R.I. (May 27, 2009) – Numark Industries, the world's leading manufacturer of DJ technology, and Genius, Inc., released today the first images of the videogame controller for Scratch: The Ultimate DJ for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. SCRATCH DECK will be showcased for hands-on play at a special event in Los Angeles on June 3, during the week of the videogame industry's most high profile trade show, the 2009 Electronic Entertainment Expo.

"For decades, Numark has been developing turntables, DJ mixers and digital DJ controllers. We know what professional DJs demand, and we used that knowledge to produce SCRATCH DECK," said Adam Cohen, Director of Business Development, Numark. "It was critical that we deliver an authentic DJ experience to gamers, whether they be experienced DJs or players who have never put a needle to vinyl."

SCRATCH DECK combines two essential elements of the DJ and hip-hop experience - a free-spinning, touch sensitive turntable with a crossfader and 5 Akai Pro MPC-style drum pads. The turntable allows players to add their own style and manipulate the songs in real time, while the MPC-style drum pads give players the opportunity to perform and customize tracks by triggering samples using the very same pads that are the cornerstone of professional hip-hop beat production. Samples can either be pre-loaded into the game using 60 unique battle records that will ship with the software, or players can record and upload their own samples using a compatible USB microphone.

In addition to the features created by Numark, SCRATCH DECK also contains standard game controls found in music rhythm games. The turntable features a realistic surface that feels remarkably similar to a vinyl record. The drum pads and the crossfader also deliver an authentic and realistic music production experience. Left-handed DJs will appreciate that SCRATCH DECK is designed for use in right or left-handed configurations.

"Being involved with Hip-Hop for so long, Numark has consistently been the standard for innovation and leadership in computer DJ controllers, their quality is second to none," said Quincy Jones III of QD3 Entertainment. "We are very excited to partner with them to deliver the most authentic DJ experience for gamers and look forward to letting gamers and Hip Hop enthusiasts get their hands on the controller for the first time at E3."

Scratch: The Ultimate DJ combines free-form DJ tricks with great rhythm game play similar to top-selling rhythm games. Scratch: The Ultimate DJ is set in distinctive urban environments and will feature songs from the biggest names in Hip-Hop. Scratch: The Ultimate DJ, featuring the Numark SCRATCH DECK, will be available in Fall 2009.

About Numark Industries

Numark Industries is the global leader of professional DJ and audio equipment, and is recognized for providing progressive breakthrough technology. Since 1971, Numark has designed and delivered innovative products and numerous music industry "firsts." For more information, visit www.numark.com; images are available at http://www.numark.com/media.

About Genius Products

Genius Products, Inc. (GNPR.PK - News ) is the owner of Genius Products, LLC, a leading independent home-entertainment distribution company that produces, licenses and distributes a valuable library of motion pictures, television programming, family, lifestyle and trend entertainment on DVD and other emerging platforms through its expansive network of retailers throughout the United State

A quick look at Deackadance 1.5

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 24 May 2009 19:54:00 +0000

The battle for supremacy amongst the various Dj softwares is heating up now as Serato ITCh finally has the NS7 and Native Instruments has released a point upgrade for its Traktor Pro. Other than these two, there are varioud other softwares that are constantly vying for some attention (and failing miserably).

These would include Virtual DJ, MixVibes and a host of other wannabes. The MixVibes line actually has some potential but Virtual Dj is seriously... it looks to me like they have chosen to be a toy software and they will forever remain that way.

Compared to them, Deckadance has been around only for a while and it is already creating waves in the Dj-ing world. The folks and Imageline sure did some research before they made this because one of the pet peeves od digital Djs was that integrating a great software like Traktor into something like Live would be mind blowing. People came up with ways to do it but then it was only sound routing and it wasn't very efficient.

Out came Deckadance - with the capability to host VSTs and runs as one as well. This opened up a whole new side Djs had been craving for. But it is not easy to become something like Traktor Pro or SSL overnight. So Deckadance has been in beta and then out of Beta and people have been looking at it with expectations of it becoming much bigger. All in all, it is really very promising.

So with this upgrade, Deckadance has changed few things and fixed a few more. This version has a new time-stretch/compression technology and also has batch processing of tracks for reduced CPU load while you are mixing. It now has a manual beat grid mode which is a must for mixing complex beats.

There are versions for both Mac and PC and the pricing model look sreally tempting to say the least. Deckadance Club Edition ($179US) and Deckadance House Edition ($99US) are are being sold at Image Line's Web shop with a 20 percent off. An offder that endson June 20, 2009. Deckadance House Edition lacks the the DVS timecoded vinul/CD transport functions which the fully-functional Club Edition has.

Here are some more features that have been added in the new version: -

Added native support for the Vestax VCI-300 controller. Other natively-supported MIDI controllers include the Vestax VCI-100, Korg Zero4, Allen & Heath Xone:3D, DJ-Tech Kontrol One, Stanton SCS-3D, Hercules DJ Control Steel, EKS Otus, Omnitronic MMC-1 and DJ-Tech DJM-202
Option to switch between the old and new sound engine by the improved interface of the setup panel
Improved seek waveform that shows the start and cue points
OpenGl render engine for Windows
Unicode support for playlist/browser items
Beatgrid move via mouse over the waveform
Improved DVS engine when elastique time-stretching is disabled, etc.
Fully compatible with Open Labs DBeat portable DJ instruments

Plant music - Now THAT's organic!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 15 May 2009 20:39:00 +0000

Okay folks, got something special for you all. We have all been bombarded with going green and so many other things for such a long time and music has usually been spared because well, music saves!

But these folks from Germany are just not satisfied with almost singlehandedly creating most of what made electronic music possible, now they are making music from plants! Yes, it is true, see for your self. There's no trick, it is pure science. These are plant theremin.

APC40 With Ableton Live on Max/MSP

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 14 May 2009 21:54:00 +0000

Here's a super user (uberuser) on Ableton Live using the APC40 with a Max/MSP Patch to make Live even more powerful. For those of you who don't know, Max/MSP is a powerful tool that is used by many musicians and A/V artists to create custom programs for themselves to make absolutely anything you can think of. Ableton recently decided to 'Extend' their Live software and added support for Max/MSP patches, making Live almost infinitely potent to do anything a user can imagine.

The user of course has to know how to use Max/MSP. To know more about Max/MSP, head over to the Cycnling '74 website. Cycling '74 (other than being a company with a cool geeky name) are the makers of Max/MSP.

Air Scratching - your answer to air guitaring!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 12 May 2009 13:36:00 +0000

...and it actually lets you scratch, unlike those crazy air guitarists!

3D Computer Interface from Free Flow on Vimeo.
So this is what the description on Vimeo says -

Utilizing the theory of electrostatics, we have designed a low-cost human-computer interface device that has the ability to track the position of a user's hand in three dimensions. Physical contact is not required and the user does not need to hold a controller or attach markers to their body. To control the device, the user simply waves their hand above it in the air.

I had actually seen something similar with a Max/MSP genius scratching live video! I will try to see if I can search up that one. But this us amazing! I mean really, how many of you can actually swear that you have never, ever, done scratching moves in the air while listening to your favorite scratch dj or hip hop track. Heck, I have seen Linkin Park fans doing it! Anyway, this is really something!

You have had your Reason to Refill and Now you get to Record!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 11 May 2009 15:34:00 +0000

Alright you guys, this is quite big! How big? Well Logic/Pro Tools etc meets Reason BIG! How many of you out there have been working simultaneously on some DAW and have had Reason on Rewire? Well this, looks like your answer to it all! if it is good enough that is, truth is, no one knows yet!

That's because it goes in to Beta today and it will released worlwide on Spetember 9 this year. But we do have pictures to savour!

This is obviously the arrangement area. Reminds me of pro tools more than anything else. but every DAW has an area like this and they look similar to each other. So far, I am sold on Logic 8!

If you have ever used Reason, you will know exactly what this is - it is ~~Reason's~~ Record's emulation of the patching bay of a hardware setup, meant to make it easier for hardware users.

One thing I am noticing is that Record has two racks side by side. Saw it in the patch bay picture too. I have to check this out in further detail. Expect Updates soon.

Ah, the mixer and arrangement areas. Oh so familiar. I wonder how good Record will be. If it has as good MIDI sequencing as Logic, I am sold! But I have often wanted to work directly inside Reason instead of running two apps (and so have millions of other users I am sure!). Propellerheads - fellas, you are on my radar for high alert!

And finallythe mixer area. Look like Reason got in to bed with Pro Tools and had one very steamy session! :P This looks delish! Alright, I am so finding out as much as I can about this. Stay tuned you guys!

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Via the good folks at Skratchworx.com

BCD3000 plus Traktor 3 - The things you can do! Conclusion

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 11 May 2009 09:15:00 +0000

So yeah, you can do pretty much a lot of things with the BCD3000 MIDI controller. This is just a quick round up of the major things I do in Traktor 3 with the BCD.

Jumping right in now, you can set up the mapping so that once you hold down a key (ideally on your laptop keyboard because the controller is always short of keys), you switch to a different MIDI mapping page (Traktor allows for 3 in total). On this new page, you can map everything differently.

For example, I use my left jog wheel to browse up and down the browsing tree, use one of the EQ kill buttons to select the tree item. Then I use the right one to select the tracks and then i use the two side by side EQ kills buttons above it to put the highlighted track on either the left deck or the right.

You can also use your keyboard for shortcuts and I am sure you do but there are few ways you could make it better. As a digital Dj or a Live PA act, you need to remember a lot of shortcuts so it would be best if you mapped corresponding symbols. Let me explain this : -

For example i use the ',' and the '.' buttons to cycle through my channel effects. Why? Because when you see the buttons, the first thing you notice are '<' and '>'; being a human being, it makes it much easier to remember which buttom does what.

Here's another idea. I am sure most of you have played computer games and I am sure at some point manyof you have had to use the typical "AWSD" keys as movement keys. Well these can be brillian when you map them to your deck as deck selection. With the movement thing burned in to my head, it is easy to remember that 'a' is for keft and 'd' is for right. Also, when I hold down the shift key and press either 'a' or 'd'; the selected track is loaded to the corresponding deck. So this is pretty easy.

I have got many such shortcuts litterred around and these kind of associations help me remember my keys.

So that's brings me to the end of my chattering on and on about the BCD. If you have things to add, do mention it in the comment. If I have enough ideas, I will add another post to this series, with your names of course!

Keep it controlling it! (yep, I still haven't figured out a catch phrase!)

FX on Itch!!! Vestax VFX-1

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 10 May 2009 21:25:00 +0000

Via djtechtools.com

Now this is a real Stop the presses moment!!! So far, Itch from Serato has really been leading the pack in terms of DVS and now with their latest Itch software and Vestax VCI-300 and Numark NS7 controllers (Dedicated Control Midi post in the pipeline), Itch has really taken the Digital DJ world by storm.

Itch has inherited the simplicity and Dj friendly features of Serato Scratch Live but so far, the one place where it lost out to Traktor Pro was the FX section. This was despite of the superb dedicated Hi-res MIDI controllers from Numark Vestax, the ones mentioned before.

But now, the rumour mill has it that Itch is going to get a new FX section! Yep! And the best part is that this was released at the djtechtools.com forums by deducing it from a picture of a brand new controller from Vestax. So in effect, this is two pieces in one! That is just superb!

So as this unfolds, we take a closer look at the sections and try to understand what Serato is really trying to do!

From the looks of it, there seems to be a separate channel FX and with options for tap tempo input. That last one definitely for beat synced effects (awesome!) and it even has 3 user preset banks. And there is also a master assignable feature. And I also see the aux/mic in. I am already thinking of the possibilites with a mic and the fx set to vocoder... mmm....

Anyway, the leak even managed to produce a PDF document. Here's what it looks like: -

So this new controller is being called VFX- 1 and I can hardly wait to get my hands on this. But since I more of a Traktor person, I will wait and see how it unfolds. ~~I just hope that I am right in thinking that this is too elaborate to be a hoax~~.

BIG UPDATE - The VP of Vestax Corporation just showed up at DJ Techtools blog and confirmed that it exists! This is big!

So anyway, till the VFX goes up for pre-order or sale you can get ready for it by getting the main piece for yourself -
The Vestax VCI-300 DJ Controller with Serato ITCH Black
Go ahead, knock yourselves out!

BCD3000 plus Traktor 3 - The things you can do! Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 10 May 2009 11:58:00 +0000

So getting back to the topic, I also use my BCD 3000 plus Traktor setup to scratch the hell out of the poor thing. It is quite abusive actually but I did a brieft stint as the DJ of a Nu-Metal band that covered stuff like Slipknot and had some originals too. So there, I had to scratch.

This would really amuse a lot of DJs out there but believe me - I could not afford the turntable+mixer setup and make my own battle records even if sold all my possesions. So I had no choice really and love to scratch! Rhythm is strong in me.

So I used the Jog Wheel and the cross fader and some how made do. It wasn't too bad but forget two-click or three click flares with these things! Heck, some say even DVS is not as good! My personal jury is still out on that one!

So to do this, you need to set up the thing just right, but the problem is that when you get the proper accuracy, you absilutely must have a low acceleration or else it all goes for a spin, literally! So i set up my left side jog with 1% acceleration with about 70% sensitivity for scratching and the right had more accelertation for giving me a proper one round spin when I hit it properly.

This took care of my scratching needs for a while. But then I realised that I need a sharper curve on my crossfader (yes, a stroke of genius!) so had to adjust that. Well for this you need to adjust the curve from the panel instead of the drop down menus on the mixer corners themselves because it did not work for me for some reason.

To do this, look for the panel called 'Master'. If it is not there on your set up, look for it by right clicking and pulling up the panels menu. Once you are there, you will see the little bar you drag with the CFC on it. Drag to the extreme right (your right) for the sharpest curve and vice-versa.

One thing to have in the mapping is the shift element which makes your controls do more things. More about this in part 3!

BCD3000 Plus Traktor 3 - The things you can do with it!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 09 May 2009 07:37:00 +0000

Hey people, back here again with something that is pretty close to me. I have been using the BCD3000 since one or two months after Behringer brought them out. And it has been an absolutel pleasure working with it.

I am not saying that it has stellar performance but given the price, it delivers as it should. Now I know Traktor has brough out the new fangled Traktor Pro and all but I just wanted to put in my two cents onthe now covered under marketing Traktor 3.

They (Native Instruments) released the Traktor 3 up to version 3.4 and it was a very stable system. The BCD3000 compliments it perfectly because the BCD itself is as simple as it gets with the MIDI I/O. My only hang up with the BCD is the audio routing, which is somewhat weird!

Coming to the point, there are actually a lot of things you can do with the BCD3000 even though it is slightly limited. The first you need to do is to get rid of the Traktor lite that it comes with. You absoilutely need to have custom mapping in order to get the full potential out of your MIDI controller. And it is not that hard to do either.

Now I know a lot of people have problems with the BCD's lights not going off and on with the events in the software, but this is easily addressed. You see, the events such as play/pause and cue are sent via MIDI to Traktor and Traktor understands what it has to do. But the lights are not Traktor's business because Traktor Does not KNOW about it. So what you need to do is to map the lights in to traktor to get them working.

Will need to keep the BCD manual handy for this work because it has all the channels you will need for the custom mod. Note down the MIDI note names and codes and set up Traktor to send out MIDI signals when something is done. So, if you want the led adjacent to the play/pause button to light up everytime it is supposed to, you map the event exactly as you have mapped your buttons but instead of choosing toggle, you choose 'out' and instead of using learn mode and hitting the button, you look up the corresponding MIDI code for the light and enter it manually in to Traktor and voila! There you have it!

More in the next post, stay tuned!

	Portability A compact and lightweight design lets you slip this controller into your backpack. Plug it into your computer's USB, and you are powered to play. more>
	Design Block is completely plug and play and USB powered. This means you don’t need drivers to use it and it works with a single USB cable. more>
	TalkBack Reprogrammable buttons with LED talkback provides visual feedback by sending MIDI commands back to the controller. more>
	Software A growing collection of open source sound applications and utilities provide a wide range of uses and endless customization. more>
	Home Grown All of our controllers are handcrafted by artists with care in our Austin, Texas shop. more>
	Specs Technical specifications and details of the of the block controller. more>