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Numark's DJ2GO2 Touch is made for aspiring DJs
Numark's controllers are ubiquitous in the world of professional DJing, and the company is hoping to get more amateurs in on the action with its DJ2GO2 Touch. The device easily fits in a backpack alongside a laptop, but it still packs cueing, looping, sampling and scratching functions. The Touch is an upgrade from 2017's DJ2GO2, with the biggest update being its capacitive jog wheels. These are the same type of touch sensitive wheels that are found on most professional DJ units, but in a much smaller package.
Numark announces Mixtrack Quad four-channel DJ controller, we go hands-on
Who'd have thunk it? Numark, at a music trade show with a new another DJ controller for your consideration. This time it has taken its popular Mixtrack console, and doubled down on the number of channels on offer. This now means between the Mixtrack, the Mixtrack II, the Mixtrack Pro II, and this, there's likely a Mixtrack for everyone. Evidently it's a format that works, so it only makes sense to offer a number of options based around the theme. As with other members of the Mixtrack family, the layout is fairly traditional, with two platters plus transport controls flanking a central mixer section. Above each platter is a set of eight MPC-style trigger pads and some rotary controls for FX and filters. If the Quad looks like it's got an extra splash of color compared to its siblings, that's because it has. The pads and platters have have configurable RGB LEDs, which we first saw in the NS7 II (Numark is going strong on the colors generally, it seems). Again, as before there's a built-in audio interface, which is pretty much essential for a controller of this level. And what level is that? Around the $349 one, apparently, whenever it comes to market (no word on that at this point). While you're waiting to find out, however, you might as well scoot over the fold for the hardware impressions.%Gallery-185305%
Numark Mixtrack Edge ultra-portable DJ controller announced, we go hands-on (video)
Just when you thought Numark couldn't invent any more DJ controllers, it's done it again. This time it's MusikMesse at Frankfurt, with the little guy you see above -- the Mixtrack Edge. It's described as "ultra portable" and when you see how big it is -- roughly the size of an iPad -- we're inclined to agree with that. In fact, when you see the device cooped up in its protective case with the lid down, you'd be forgiven for thinking that's exactly what it was (a tablet). But, no... this is another attempt at forging a new DJ controller category. Numark's done small before (like the DJ2Go), but the Mixtrack Edge has a significant trick up its sleeve -- a built-in audio interface. This means no cable splitters, you instead plug headphones right in, and line your audio out to your speakers. Sound good? We went hands on to find out, so plug in after the break.%Gallery-185201%
Numark NS7 II Serato DJ controller hands-on (video)
Like buttons? Numark at NAMM evidently thinks they are this season's DJ must have. The latest bit of kit to get the manual-input makeover? Its NS7 II Serato DJ controller. The second iteration of its motorized-platter DJ tool lands augmented with 16 "MPC-style" pads. Of course, when you are part of the same corporation that also makes the MPC, swinging these sort of add-ons must be a little easier. Those pads will be assignable to a host of features (cues, loop, roll, sampler, and slicer) in the Serato DJ software (sadly not ready for a demo with the hardware at this time). Of course, the NS7 II is all MIDI compatible, so if your software of choice is something else, then you are free to map and a buse as you wish. That's not all, you might notice in the picture above that the pads have some jazzy colors going on. They are have RGB illumination which can be set and customized to your choice by MIDI data. It's not all about the pads though. Numark has also added touch functionality to a lot of the rotaries. So, if you have one set to control a filter, you can just tap the tip of the control to trigger it on / off. The last of the big news is that with the NS7 II, you can also control four virtual decks. A nice addition for the fast-fingered DJs out there. We ran into the device on the show floor and spent some time with it. Head past the break for more.
Numark iDJ Live II DJ controller hands-on (video)
If there's one company that comprehensively caters to the entry-level and intermediate DJ, there's a good chance it's Numark. While the firm has released a whole bunch of stuff at NAMM this year, perhaps its most mainstream offering is the iDJ Live II. If you remember the original, it was a lightweight controller (both physically, and metaphorically) designed for use with Djay on iOS. This time around the little fella gets a redesign, and a few functionality tweaks. Most notable, is that while the first iteration only gave you the option of iOS connectivity -- via the 30-pin adaptor -- this time you have the choice of Lightning, 30-pin, or straight up USB. Thus, you can now bring the iDJ Live II out to work with your Mac or PC, too. Once again, it's built with Algoriddim's Djay in mind, be it the desktop or iOS version, and we got our hands on it to take it for a spin. Head past the break for the lowdown.
Numark Orbit wireless MIDI DJ controller hands-on (video)
NAMM is yet to open its doors fully, but we managed to sneak a hands-on with the freshly announced Orbit DJ controller from Numark at the press preview. As you can see, the wireless device looks like a game controller that crashed into a disco -- it's certainly distinctive. This is no accident, and the design is purposely built with quick and easy button access in mind, letting DJs (and any MIDI-based performers) step out from behind the DJ booth, and onto the stage. The portability of the Orbit is further amplified by the inclusion of a clip-mount on the rear, as well as lanyard-style strap hoops. It feels light yet solid, and the soft-touch finish means your hands won't get tired gripping this thing in the throws of a drum-pad solo. The name Orbit also evidently refers -- at least in part -- to the near-symmetrical design which lets you hold it either way with the same comfortable access to those brightly-lit, colorful controls. Those pads feel smooth, yet tactile -- and most importantly -- responsive. Tap past the break for more impressions.
Numark refreshes iDJ Live, NS7, Mixtrack Pro DJ controllers, intros new Orbit wireless option
Many a DJ's first footsteps into the craft has started with a box labeled 'Numark.' At This year's Winter NAMM the prolific firm has updated three of its existing controllers, and added a new hand-held wireless line -- called Orbit -- into (ahem) the mix. First up for the refresh treatment is the sequel to the iDJ Live iPad DJ controller -- the iDJ Live II (of course). What's new? Well this time around there's USB connectivity, which opens the functionality to a much broader range of software. The design has also been revised, with the platters most notably being much lower profile. Controls-wise, it's still back to basics with the essentials covered (EQ, crossfader etc), but the lack of onboard audio interface means you're still relying on an audio splitter for cueing. If you need a little more control, or a dedicated audio interface, the second revision on the list -- the Mixtrack Pro II -- might be more up your street. Head past the break to read more.
Numark outs new 4Trak DJ controller: no, it's not half an 8-track
Thought you were all done for new products and first looks? Think again. Looks like Numark is trying to stay ahead of the NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) curve, outing its new Traktor-specific 4Trak DJ controller a few days before the show. Its N6 and N7 Serato-flavored devices have been well received, so it's no surprise the DJ stalwart made one for the other dominant mixing software. On board there's a four channel mixer, four-deck control, touch-strip track search, high resolution platters and a veritable flight deck of 1:1 hardware / software controls. See that tilted section up top? It's actually a separate clamp-on "FX Kommand Console" (for controlling effects, unsurprisingly) that comes bundled in the box; an unusual, yet welcome variation. If this sounds like your cup of awesome, you could be spinning with it as soon as the end of Q1. You'll need to lay down the estimated $1099 street price, but that does include a custom version of Traktor. Still interested? Tap the PR over the break for the full run down.
iDJ Live gives your iPad two turntables, microphone not included
Looking to get a more realistic feel from your Djay iOS app? Yeah, we suspected as much, and now Numark's giving you the ability to boost your street cred while spinnin' tracks in the club... or, you know, your mum's living room. The company's new iDJ Live accessory does its darndest to transform your iOS device (iPhone and iPod compatible, despite being obviously tailored for iPad) into a more legit deejay set-up. With George Strait / MC Hammer mash-ups just waiting to happen, the device guides you into the musical unknown with two "turntables," a mixer (with crossfader), an iPad stand and connection capabilities for use with an external sound system. Already sold? She's yours for a cool Benjamin, and if you'd rather use your existing stash of CoreMIDI-enabled DJ apps, be our guest.
Scratch: The Ultimate DJ remixed for iPhone, iPad, and PC [update]
Click: The Ultimate GalleryScratch: The Ultimate DJ was all set to compete against Activision's DJ Hero, but major legal issues delayed the game significantly. Now, the game has resurfaced -- in a form that doesn't use the high-end turntable controller. Numark (managing partner in Scratch DJ Game LLC) announced versions of the game for iPhone, iPad, and PC, due "later this year" -- which constitutes another delay, from the game's previous "spring" date. The previously announced console versions of the game are not mentioned at all in the announcement, save for an oblique reference in the description of the Scratch Deck controller: "Additionally, Numark has developed a new full-function dual-turntable controller that enables players to manipulate both turntables simultaneously, which will be available for use with the game on a variety of platforms." While the PC may be one of those platforms, it's a safe bet that the controller isn't designed for use with the iPhone or iPad. It's hard to tell from the announcement whether the console game has been scrapped in favor of this "remixed" release. We're contacting Numark to attempt to clear up the question of Scratch's console release plans. Update: Numark told Joystiq that the console versions are still in development. In addition, the PC version will use a special controller.
Scratch: The Ultimate DJ deck ain't no half-steppin'
"These aren't some made up tricks," scoffs our friendly narrator. "They're authentic scratches heard every night in the hottest clubs in the world." But authenticity -- the act of keeping it real -- doesn't end there for Scratch: The Ultimate DJ's Numark-designed peripheral, the Scratch Deck. Check these street credentials: "the first legitimate DJ controller for video gamers" (oh snap!) "Numark have been at the forefront of turntable production since the 1970s" (before you were even born, son!) "utilizes technology that locks your scratches in the sweet spot of any sample" (bust that scientifical) "build skills that will transfer over to any DJ setup" (who said anything about mad skillz?) "you need beats" (just sayin') "Dr. Dre, Just Blaze and Pete Rock" ( ... just sayin') "The controller," authenticates Mix Master Mike, "very authentic." With that our narrator concludes, "So, now you're up on everything related to Scratch: The Ultimate DJ." But wait, isn't there, like, a video game somehow related to this peripheral? What up with that?Update: So what's up with the game? "The game is coming along quite nicely under the direction of the Commotion Interactive team, and we will be releasing some new assets in a few weeks," a Scratch spokesperson tells Joystiq. And adds, "As of now, the release date is still spring 2010."%Gallery-64266%
Scratch: The Ultimate DJ's development turned to new studio
With most of its legal issues over, Scratch: The Ultimate DJ is ready for a comeback next year under developer Commotion Interactive. The game was previously being created by Activision's 7 Studios, but after a very messy legal entanglement, Scratch DJ Game, LLC -- a joint venture between Numark Industries and Genius Products -- was given the Scratch source code and tools under court order to proceed with development.Commotion's job now is to get the game out for Xbox 360 and PS3 by "early 2010." A representative for Numark informed us that the Scratch Deck peripheral will remain the same, but couldn't confirm whether it would be compatible with DJ Hero. We've also been told the game has taken a slightly different (visual) artistic direction and that new screenshots should be available in the coming weeks.We were also curious about the music selection and licensing in Scratch. MTV Games is the licensing muscle for Harmonix's Rock Band, while Activision has gotten good at licensing with Guitar Hero. Who is Scratch adding to its roster? "Our team is doing a great job of handling the music licensing," the representative said. "We already have agreements with; Kanye West, Run DMC, Outkast and others, with more announcements to come."With DJ Hero set for this year under the mighty marketing banner of Activision, Scratch will definitely need that special magic to make a commotion upon release.
Video: Scratch: The Ultimate DJ shows off its deck, new website
The battle of the DJ games will be coming to a head soon, reminding of us when Armageddon went up against Deep Impact. But who's going to mix it up and come out on top here? Scratch: The Ultimate DJ just released a video that shows off some of the tech (and DJ know-how) that went into the Scratch Deck, and you can see how it stacks up against DJ Hero's controller.Watch the video above and take a trip on their extremely urban adventure-themed website for more information. We like the addition of the separate drum pad to their deck, which DJ Hero has on the turntable with two fewer buttons. It's just that Scratch's characters look like they need to eat a sandwich or two. Numark calls the turntable the "first and only legitimate DJ controller for video gamers."We're reserving judgment on these two until we can play them side by side, but the video above gives us a bit more confidence in Scratch. Now, let's see some more gameplay.%Gallery-33928%
Scratch: The Ultimate DJ hands-on
For the past few years E3 has been a tale of two guitar games. In a lot of ways it still is, with the Guitar Hero and Rock Band clans still battling it out for plastic instrument supremacy, but this year two turntable games are also vying for your attention. DJ Hero has far more brand recognition on the box, but Scratch: the Ultimate DJ has the better hardware, and we got our hands on it.
One turntable to rule them all: DJ Hero vs Scratch: The Ultimate DJ
Click image to compare With two high profile DJ-'em-up games coming out in DJ Hero and Scratch: The Ultimate DJ, many are likely scratching their heads at which turntable and promised experience is going to be superior. Well, we can't comment on the latter (until E3, anyway), but we can take a look at the two competing controllers. We stacked them side-by-side for your viewing pleasure and compared all the known details in our gallery below. Enjoy!%Gallery-64266%
Scratch: The Ultimate DJ shows off its ultimate deck
Click to embiggen Scratch: The Ultimate DJ is ready to reveal the plastic peripheral that'll take up your precious living room real estate. The Numark-designed deck will certainly keep wannabe game DJs quibbling whether it's better than DJ Hero's deck.The Numark deck features a free-spinning, touch sensitive turntable (uh, the thing on the left in the photo) and a crossfader with 5 Akai Pro MPC-style drum pads, allowing players to trigger samples -- you know, just like real DJs. Players can use one of the 60 samples shipping with the game or "record and upload their own ... using a compatible USB microphone." Oh, and don't worry, lefties, the deck is flippable.We'll be certain to give our hands-on scratch impressions next week at E3, where the unit will be available.%Gallery-64264%
Scratch: The Ultimate DJ controller spins into life
We've already gotten a couple of glimpses of DJ Hero's turntable / mixer controller, and now it's time for Scratch: The Ultimate DJ and its Numark-designed deck to steal the spotlight for a song or two. The setup pretty much mirrors the on-screen interface we saw in the initial screenshot, with the free-spinning, touch-sensitive turntable on your left and five Akai Pro MPC-style drum pad triggers next to the cross-fader to the right. According to the press release, you'll actually be able to upload your own samples using a compatible USB mic if none of the pre-loaded jams get you going -- and not to worry southpaw scratchers, you can rotate the mixer to the left if that's more comfortable. We'll have more of Scratch at next week's E3, but in the meantime, hit up the press release after the break for more deets.
Rumor: Scratch: The Ultimate DJ to use MP3 turntable
Should it ever make it into stores, Genius Products' Scratch: The Ultimate DJ might come with a very cool bonus. According to a tweet from producer Quincy Jones III (at least, we think it's really QDIII -- the account is linked from his Myspace account), the turntable controller used for the game will have extra functionality beyond the game. QDIII's tweet: "The scratch video game also has a real mp3 turn table with a functional fader, just like the real thing... will keep you posted on updates."If this turns out to be used for Scratch, it will mean that the fake musical instrument for the game is also a real musical instrument -- no modding required. We can't help but wonder, with all the lawsuits happening, if Activision is daring enough to "spontaneously" have the same idea for DJ Hero.%Gallery-33928%[Via The Koalition]
Scratch: The Ultimate DJ drama continues as 7 Studios countersues
The tangled web of developers, publishers and the various lawsuits between them, has just gotten that much more complex as 7 Studios countersues Scratch: The Ultimate DJ publishers Genius Products. According to court documents obtained by The Cut Scene blog, 7 Studios is asking for $1 million in damages, allegedly attributed to a variety of "unlawful and unsavory business practices." Among them, 7 Studios alleges Genius Products repeatedly delayed production of the game, didn't deliver various assets on time (music, that is), considered creating a Nintendo Wii version of the game (then subsequently canceled it), and when things didn't work out, tried to cut and run. In so many words, 7 Studios is accusing Genius of asking them to create a game without adequate support and then, when the game was nearly finished, trying to shop it out to other publishers. We've reached out to all parties involved (repeatedly) and, like the Cut Scene blog, heard nothing back. We'll update this post accordingly if we hear anything, but at this point, we're suggesting that you don't hold your breath. [Image]
Scratch: The Ultimate DJ granted restraining order
In the ongoing court battle between Scratch: The Ultimate DJ co-publishers Genius Products and Numark vs. DJ Hero publisher Activision, the first of many legal battles has been detailed. According to a press release sent out by Genius Products, the Los Angeles Superior Court has granted the Scratch developers a temporary restraining order and told Activision-owned 7 Studios to return all source code. Additionally, 7 Studios is being court-ordered to return "pre-existing developer tools and technology" used in the game's 18-month development cycle, presumably including the "nine custom-manufactured turntable and beat-button game controllers" claimed by Numark as being held hostage by 7 Studios and, in turn, Activision. Outside of returning all the equipment used in the development of Scratch, 7 Studios' CEO, Lewis Peterson, has been effectively banned from any involvement with the game and the former Scratch team has been ordered not to speak about its development. This news clashes directly with allegations put forth by Activision last week, positing that the Los Angeles Superior Court had denied said restraining order. We've put in a request for comment to Activision and will update this post as we find out more.
