http://www.prosound.co.za

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ALL ABOUT THE BEATS THE PEOPLE & THE MUSIC

MAR/APR ‘12EDITION 60

3 | BPM

contENtsLatest in DJ, Music and Production Gear

E EDITOR’S NOTE

EDITORS NOTE & INFO

COVER FEATURE - PIONEER DDJ-ERGO

COVER FEATURE - PIONEER DDJ-ERGO

DJ GEAR: GEMINI CDJ-700

STUDIO: sE ELECTRONICS MUNRO EGG 150

STUDIO: sE ELECTRONICS MUNRO EGG 150

GEAR NEWS

GEAR NEWS

REVIEW: AMERICAN AUDIO: MX1400-DSP

REVIEW: ALESIS MIC TUBE DUO

PRODUCTION TIPS WITH JON SHAW

TUTORIAL: ABLETON TUTORIAL

TUTORIAL: ABLETON TUTORIAL

THE BUSINESS OF CREATIVITY

THE BUSINESS OF CREATIVITY

xciting news!!! We have another fantastic should have at a helluva good price makes this a very competition giveaway on offer to you thanks appealing option for club and venue owners to consider, as to Pioneer DJ SA. Just turn back one page. Do DJs are catered for no matter which medium they play off. it... now! Yessirree, check out the cover. That Read my review on the CDJ-700 on Pg 6.cute little baby right there – The DDJ-Ergo – For the studio we also look at two vastly different parts of Pioneer’s newest addition to their controller the gear spectrum. Nic Roos test drives the new Alesis Mic family – is up for grabs. All the competition Tube Duo, a preamplifier at a budget price and Greg Bester information is on Pg 36 in the lifestyle section goes high-end with the sE Electronics Munro Egg 150 Studio of the mag. But before you do that you can monitors, a set of speakers that certainly has the global

read Dave Skinz’s review on this new piece of DJ tech on Pgs studio world talking... and listening.4 & 5. Then you can rush off and enter!!! And then of course let’s not forget our trusty tutorials;

Other DJ gear worth reading up on is the American learn more about determining the right tempo for your track Audio MX1400-DSP 4-channel mixer. I was very impressed with Jon Shaw and for Ableton users; how does a lesson on with this device; build quality, feature-set and price all make creating MPC-style drums grab you? for a really good proposition from a brand possibly not quite Finally the last say is by David Maclean, the SAE institute as well known as some others in South Africa. – Cape Town head honcho who tackles the very relevant

But talking of well known brands, Gemini have returned topic; ‘The Business of Creativity,’ something we could all with what I am sure the company is hoping to be a big seller think a little more about as we forge our way through this for them – the CDJ-700 Media player. I first had the chance to industry in some form or other. check out the beta-model of this player back in November Don’t forget to visit www.bpmmag.co.za for daily gear 2011 and notwithstanding a few software issues (it was after news.all a beta version – a work in progress) I could already tell that this player would have a lot to offer. And it certainly does. DAVE MAC

Packed with all the features a professional Media player

Editor-in-Chief

By Dave Skinz

4 | BPM

DJ GEAR

Pioneer DDJ Ergo Ergonomic with all the 'basses' coveredWhat Is It?

system as on the CDJ range with loop in and loop out and a rotary control to shift the timing from an 1/8th to 32 beats seamlessly.

The software packaged with the ERGO is a customized version of Virtual DJ that allows for seamless integration between the controller's layout and your view within the software. Everything on the screen is where it is on the controller allowing f o r a m u c h m o r e i n t u i t i v e experience. The bottom half of your screen is multifunctional letting you check your library, sample bank, audio and video effects by using any button designated for a particular function to get the screen to change to that view. Within the software the mixer section can be interchanged between audio, video control or a bottom to top visual scroller which I didn't care for. The top of the screen has the left to right view of the tracks playing with 3 magnification modes. The four deck mode is pretty comprehensive with each channel having its own colour to avoid confusion but you can only view two tracks at a time even if all four are playing. Some might bemoan the The platters are identical to the use of Virtual DJ but you can upgrade one's on the DDJ-S1 and DDJ-T1 but The DDJ-ERGO is Pioneer’s latest to a copy of Pro for a small fee and the sides of the platter are now fitted foray into DJ controllers and it’s a the ERGO does ship with a Traktor with a clear plastic to allow for the bold move from one of the leaders in map as well, and there is also talk of a ERGO's elaborate marker and light DJ equipment and a smart one at Serato Intro map on the way.cue system. All of your cueing and that, as it’s a move away from the

The ERGO offers you the choice FX control can be visually monitored strategy of high performance, of small or large headphone jack now so that when cueing; the red premium price tag pieces of kit only. inputs while the little seen back of the lights go clockwise to reference your After checking out stacks of ERGO reveals two inputs, one via a beat-matching and in FX mode; anti-footage of the ERGO circulating the set of RCA's, and one for a clockwise to indicate your dry/wet net after NAMM I was still taken Microphone via 1/4” jack each with control. The platter and even the two aback by the design when I got to lay its own volume control. These inputs line faders are outlined and light up in my own eyes on it. The first thing you can also be controlled with the different colours to provide a visual notice is the very sleek feminine Mic/Line rotary on the right side of sense of timing. The cue and play shape of the white chassis the face of the ERGO just below the buttons are solid and compact with surrounding everything other than master volume. Only one of these the pitch fader fitting the same the face and input/outputs. Very 70's inputs can be used at a time though description.retro, reminiscent of one of those and there is no phono input. Output Above each of the platters are beautiful hanging chair's. But enough is via either balanced 1/4” jacks or the 4 x 4 rows of buttons and knobs romance.RCA. The ERGO feeds itself 500mA that control your FX, hot cues and Pioneer continues with the of power off your USB bus so no samples. There are 7 audio effects traditional Left and Right deck setup worries about a transformer. The available in the software (flanger, with the mixer positioned in the final feature rounding out this part of beat grid, flippin double, overloop, middle. There are two heavy line the ERGO is a Kensington lock. The backspin, brake, echo), 3 video faders with a nice quick crossfader ERGO is nice and light, weighing in at effects (boom auto, strobe auto, and 3 band EQ's, gain control, and only 3 kg and it also ships with a set negative) and a choice of 3 video band pass filter per channel. Your of optional feet so you can slide your transitions (zoom, scratch, cube). rotary track scrolling, loading, laptop underneath; one of Pioneer’s The sample sect ion has 12 recording and cue controls are all innovations with their controller recordable sample slots within the located comfortably in the middle of series.software and each channel has its the ERGO with the backlit buttons to

sample volume control. Looping is switch your decks just above your easily controlled through the same filters.

Price: R 8,499.00Supplier: Pro Audio | Tel: (011) 822-1430 | Web: www.proaudio.co.za

5 | BPM

DJ GEAR

D

Who should own one?

The Verdict.

top of each other. So it feels like the might have in DJ software.features you will use most are all Notwithstanding my nitpicking, I If you’ve grown up on Pioneer DJ tightly grouped together. The pitch like the DDJ-ERGO a lot; not just gear (as so many of you have) then faders are also a little small for my because it is fun to play on, and looks this will certainly be the controller personal taste. like something out of a sci-fi movie you should go for. It’s a terrific

I can also see guys out there but because it presents the starting point for anyone looking to criticizing the use of Virtual DJ as the opportunity for a lot more DJ's to get get into DJ'ing or even moving from software especially a sort of LE their hands on a piece of Pioneer's CDJ's and wanting to get a feel for the version considering the scope of the legacy. Pioneer DJ range because this, like FX but it impressed me that Pioneer all the Pioneer kit is built super solid have now come to the table with with clicks and reliability built into multiple controllers each offering every button, fader and knob. The almost all the leading choices you lighting system is another great

feature for those wanting to learn to beat match properly, as opposed to relying on the sync button (groan) which seems to be favoured too often these days.

I certainly like the voluptuous design and the innovative use of the colour lighting system and at its core the ERGO is going to please many DJ's out there, but there were a couple of small things I took note of. The pitch fader for CH1 is right next to the Line fader for that channel and the EQ, FX and Sample controls are a little on-

Gemini CDJ-700By Dave Mac

6 | BPM

DJ GEAR

Price: R 8,995-00 | Supplier: AudiosureTel: (011) 790 4600 | Web: www.audiosure.co.za

G

DJ

which can also be function does the business but like all adjusted for sensitivity. loop functions on these devices you The full colour 3.5" TFT inevitably have to manually adjust the touchscreen offers all loop to ensure it plays seamlessly. the necessary in- All media formats work equally well formation for browsing meaning the CDJ-700 indeed lives up to through folders, MP3 its claim of being a multi-format media tag info and a full player. I downloaded the Traktor Midi TSI waveform display. file and was pleasantly surprised at how

At first glance one well the player performed as a controller can be forgiven for too.thinking Gemini have

emini DJ have been copied the Pioneer around the block and then CDJ-2000 but on closer inspection they

With all the focus on DJ controllers these some. Back in the 90’s are quite a bit different, screen size being

days, Gemini’s CDJ-700 offers a very their ubiquitous 626 mixer the most notable variable. Media players,

enticing price and places you with one leg was the go-to piece of like the bevy of DJ controllers on the

firmly in the CD age and one in the digital. gear for anybody looking market today are all going to look very

So if you want the best of both worlds, as to get into DJing and now, similar; there is a tried and tested layout

a club/venue owner or private individual some 15 years later (give that works so it would be remiss for a

looking to upgrade your existing setup or take) their brand new manufacturer to try and re-invent the

(you will still need a mixer remember) this CDJ-700 has similar merits; solid wheel. But features-wise Gemini have

media player offers a lot of options for a performance, great feature set and a certainly set out to match anything the

decent price.damn good price... other manufacturers offer.

Now when I test players of any sort the most important thing to me is not all the fancy bells & whistles. To pass the first The plastic fascia and slightly flimsy

The CDJ-700 is a Professional Media test the simple things like track load time, tempo slider are the only two possible

Player. Yes it looks like a DJ CD player but how easy it is to search for a track, ease- negatives I can find in an otherwise well

these days the term ‘media player’ refers of-use when cueing and the tactility of the designed and easy-to-use media player.

to a DJ instrument that is more versatile jog-wheel when beat-mixing are Ergonomically, when in use, the layout is

than just playing good ‘ol fashioned CDs. absolutely key to even bothering with the logical and the device works well. The

All conceivable and viable formats are rest of the features on offer. The CDJ-700 effects are decent, the jog-wheel can be

supported from SD cards and USB is remarkably easy to use; the tilted adjusted to suit your mixing style and the

memory devices – hard drives, flash discs colour screen is adequate – I’m probably hot cues are dead easy to setup.

et al – in a variety of file formats (MP3, a bit spoilt by staring at a laptop screen Browsing via the 3.5” screen offers all the

A A C , W AV a n d A I F F ) t o t h e these days – and browsing through one’s feedback necessary to make an informed

aforementioned CD format from audio library, even an extensive one is quite decision and even the waveform grew on

CDs to CD-Rs and MP3 CDs. Add to this quick and simple. me after a while. On a tight budget, with a

USB connectivity to computer and you’re The waveform display is okay but great feature set, the CDJ-700 is certainly

pretty much covered on all fronts. doesn’t really achieve what this feature an appealing proposition.

Boasting a 24-bit/192kHz soundcard the should do; offer you visual feedback of

CDJ-700 can be used as a midi controller the breaks in a track and the intensity of

to control your DJ software and one can the different sections. But browsing,

route one’s audio through the media cueing and mixing is a cinch and the

player. platter has a solid enough feel to it. The 6

Other notable features include 6 effects are all pretty decent and super

DSP-powered effects, 3 hot cues, easy to use as are the hot-cues. The loop

seamless looping and three selectable jog-wheel modes (Search / Pitch Bend / Scratch Effect with Slip Mode and Reverse) via the touch sensitive 8” platter

Who should own one?

The VerdictWhat is it?

http://www.electrosonic.co.za

8 | BPM

STUDIO GEARBy Greg Bester sE Munro Egg 150

WThe Munro Eggs are, well,

egg shaped, their most striking feature but how do they sound?

hen it comes to studio monitors, the last name that is likely to pop into your head would be B r i t i s h / C h i n e s e M i c r o p h o n e C o m p a n y , s E Electronics. Despite

this, they are a company that over the last few years has built a really solid name around their products even though they mainly compete within the entry- to mid-level arena. It is true that some of their mics are highly regarded and lately they’ve been adding some real big names to bolster the reputation of their

but instead are bi-amplified by a separate also offer some unique features that products too, including such luminaries amplifier which sE calls the control unit. you’re not likely to see on other as audio legend Rupert Neve as in their The brushed aluminium 2u unit is monitors. The first is a “sweet spot” RN series of microphones. 50/50W per side, free standing and indicator LED which is mounted on the This obviously suggests that sE has rackable, and incorporates two separate front face of each speaker. When turned some serious clout ($) behind them and stereo inputs – MAIN and AUX - which on from the rear panel of the control unit, that, more importantly, they know which are selectable via a toggle switch on the the aim is to position the speakers so that names will strike at the heart of the pro front panel. As far as connectivity goes, the LEDs are viewed at their brightest. It’s audio community and earn them some the MAIN L and R inputs are XLR and the probably best, then, to position the LEDs rep. The trick, of course, is to make sure AUX inputs are RCA. Both the +4dBu at eye level, which is what I did. Just don’t those products live up to the name silk and the -10dBV reference standards are forget to turn them off or you’ll be half screened onto them, which is not an easy featured. Monitor control is built into the way through a session wondering why it task, I’m sure. unit as well with separate volume feels like your retinas are burning! The The latest such luminary to put his controls for both inputs, which is a other unique feature is a mid voicing name on an sE product would be welcomed feature. There are also three-position switch, located on the loudspeaker guru and acoustics expert, separate high and low trim knobs for front panel of the control unit. It has three Andy Munro of Munro Acoustics UK, and each driver, located on the rear panel of positions, namely, ‘Hard’, ‘Soft’ or the subject of this review; the sE Munro the control unit. Two 3m speaker cables ‘Reference’ (0), each supplying a Egg 150 Monitoring System. fitted with Neutrik Speakon connectors different mid spectrum profile. sE are supplied along with rack ears and a recommends keeping it in the 0 position power cable. for most applications.

The egg shape offers two distinct but Standard features aside, the Eggs conveniently related advantages and it’s a bit of science but here’s the gist of it. Firstly, the outside curved surface minimizes diffraction interference which is caused by higher frequencies reflecting off of the corner areas of a traditional square speaker and the inside is devoid of standing waves because of the complete lack of parallel surfaces.

This has the claimed result of a smoother frequency response and reduced smearing, respectively. The rigid “monocoque” flat black shell is claimed to be resonant neutral as well and the front bass port is uniquely positioned for maximum bass extension. Driver size is typical for monitors of this size with a 25mm (1in) high frequency soft dome tweeter and a 165mm low frequency driver.

The two Munro Egg monitors are not active, as most near fields are these days,

Construction

Features

Suggested Retail Price: R 26,995.00 incl. VATSupplier: Tuerk Music Technologies | Contact Tel. No: (011) 792 8402

Website: www.tuerkmusic.co.za

Monitoring System9 | BPM

STUDIO GEAR

In Use Conclusionnot mean that they lack in top end or clarity as they are smooth and fast on After seeing the Eggs on the cover of the The sE Munro Egg 150 Monitoring transients.UK audio magazine Sound on Sound, System is a big achievement for a

After referencing a couple well-my ears were pricked as to how good c o m p a n y w h o s p e c i a l i z e s i n known recordings I decided to check out these monitors actually are and given microphones and I’m sure for the the mid voicing three way switch. the hype I’ve heard around their monitoring world in general. They are Switching to “Soft” immediately gave us preceding reputation, I must admit I true, clear and representative monitor that scooped hi-fi sound, which I’d went in to this review with preconceived speakers that are indeed worthy of the expect to be good for normal, lazy expectations. accolades sung at them. listening. Turning the switch back to (0) After unpacking them and installing However, I must admit I was quite restored the reference quality that we them into my studio, I used the indicator surprised at the price and would wager had gotten used to. The “Hard” setting LEDs as per the instructions in the that there are other specimens at this seems to make mid-range heavy manual and in no time I had a pretty good price point that might sound just as good instruments like voices jump forward position that was true to the stereo or better. and it’s easy to see why sE calls this image. I then turned the LED indicator That being said, I think sE has really setting the audio “microscope.” lights OFF. Next I hooked up my produced a fantastic product in the However, I would only use it on the rare Dangerous Audio DA converter to the Munro Egg and if your budget allows for occasion that I need more clarity in the control unit and powered the unit on. this type of investment you should mid-range.With this particular setup my plan was to certainly listen to these before making a

set the MAIN input volume control on the decision.sE control unit to about two o’clock and use my own monitor controller. I was somewhat forced to do this since my AD converter is a converter/monitor controller combination unit.

The immediate concern was noise because if the control unit was noisy at h igher leve ls , i t may become troublesome but to my amazement, the amplifier was whisper quiet as is my Dangerous DA Converter. I then made sure the mid voicing switch was set to 0 and loaded up some reference music to take my initial listen.

My first impression was that these speakers are indeed clear, true and flat. They are also capable of decent volume (118dBSPL max) and do not lack in low end. A colleague and I commented on how the low notes of an acoustic guitar seemed even and consistent without any sign of note drop outs and the clarity of the strings was stellar. We ended up A/B testing them against some similar sized Genelec 8030a’s and even though the Genelecs had a slightly different tone, we couldn’t decide which speakers we liked better, which says a lot for the sE’s considering the reputation of Genelec. The Eggs seemed to offer more in the region between 100 to 150Hz however, which gives them a more punchy sound whereas the Genelecs have a more pronounced upper midrange presence. On the other hand, the upper midrange of the Eggs seems tamed but that does

Pioneer Steez - Portable Speakers on the run

10 | BPM

GEAR & INDUSTRY NEWS

Numark – iDJ Pro

Continued on Pg 12 ...

R

D

SA Distributor: Viva Afrika | (011) 2503280| www.numark.com

We all remember the old boombox era; well it looks like Pioneer have given the concept a new very innovative twist with a new range of portable speakers called the Steez. They have been put together with the dance crews in mind, to be a portable performance speaker that can be customized for your crew or dance competition. The range currently has three sizes out, all fitted with inputs for iPods and iPhones, USB, microphone and a mini-headphone jack input to cater for the huge variety of music storage out there. But no worries if you don't have tunes on you, the Steez comes with built in music libraries covering most of the dance styles out there. There are multiple modes of use including a DJ Mix mode which will mix the songs for you, to the Auto Battle mode which can be set to run off a playlist for specific times with countdowns in between to let the crews change up. You can set up your own playlists and adjust the tempo of the music playing so this is an ideal piece of kit for dance crews, fitness trainers, or gyms that need a sound system and way of timing your routines or workouts. All of the models in the range come with remote controls and power transformers to make things a little easier or you can take to the streets and use batteries to keep that party or battle going.

SA Distributor: Proaudio |011-8221430| www.proaudio.co.za

Premium DJ Controller for iPad Deck out your iPad for some serious mixing. iDJ Pro from Numark is a professional DJ controller that expands your iPad’s touch interface, seamlessly integrating with Algoriddim's djay for iPad app to form a completely new DJ experience. iDJ Pro features a sleek, brushed aluminium casing and is equipped with all the professional controls you expect, plus some design features and capabilities that will inspire brand-new surges of creativity. Combining the industry-leading design of Numark DJ controllers with the power of your iPad and Algoriddim's djay app, iDJ Pro puts a 30-pin dock for iPad at the centre of its traditional dual-platter setup, giving you access to your iPad’s touch-screen alongside an expanded layout of physical controls: touch-sensitive platters, large die-cast aluminium volume knobs, a dedicated music-library scroll knob, plus hot cues, looping, pitch and effect controls. Once your iPad is docked, a latching door provides total, seamless integration, giving you an intuitive, flexible and powerful DJ system. Thanks to your iPad’s wireless capability, you'll have access to virtually any song instantly. iDJ Pro empowers you with access to the cloud, allowing you to download tracks and have them pumping in seconds. iDJ Pro is fully integrated with Algoriddim’s popular djay for iPad app and can work with other Core MIDI-enabled apps. It's also AirPlay compatible, giving you the flexibility to blast your set wirelessly through AirPlay speakers. iDJ Pro comes ready to party with professional microphone and external device inputs as well as balanced XLR master outputs.

The OhmRGB is a totally customizable, interactive MIDI instrument, designed to give you hands-on control for your performance. High-quality sliders, knobs buttons, expansion jacks, and multicolour LEDs provide the interface for creative expression, whether you're mixing samples and synths or DJ'ing a cutting-edge set. Constructed with anodized aluminium and hand-finished wood, the quality is felt down to your fingertips. All controllers are hand crafted and assembled for artists by artists at the Austin, Texas shop.

AdaptableThe OhmRGB is designed as an adaptable instrument and can

Scripts and templates are available for many popular software be used for music, dj'ing, visuals, lighting, and presentations, in

titles like Ableton Live, Propellerhead's Reason and Record, the studio or on the stage. The bi-directional communication

Traktor, Arkaos, Cuelux, and many more for total plug-and-play keeps the controller in touch with the software, and keeps you

performance.focused on your performance. Completely reprogrammable MIDI settings let you set up the controller for any situation.

SA Distributor: Benjamin Studios | +27 76 984 6691 | www.benjaminstudio.co.za

Ohm RGB by Livid Instruments

11 | BPM

GEAR & INDUSTRY NEWS

Robert Juliat: Aledin - 330LF LED 85W

Elite QuickStand Staging screens+ 2-year manufacturer parts and labour warranty, 3-year

warranty for GEMR (Government, Education, Military and Religious)

Portable Presentation Screen for ProAV+ Strong, lightweight and portable folding aluminium fixed-

frame screen for multi-media conference/classroom presentations Standard CineWhite (Gain 1.1) screen material with black backing and drape kit

+ Optional 2.2 Gain WraithVeil (rear-projection) - material sold separately

+ Sealed edge detachable frame design with material snap button attachments and corner pull straps

+ Easy setup and teardown design with no tools required+ Adjustable frame height can be raised or lowered at 8"

increments for various presentations+ Durable aluminium travelling case is wheeled for easy

transport, storage, and shipping for tradeshows and travelling presentations

+ 150" and above models come with AT legs for additional support

+ Available in 72" - 250" diagonal sizes in 4:3 & 16:9 aspect ratio

+ Accessories and spare parts With its high output LED, its 200 mm Fresnel lens virtually indestructibleand its great beam quality, this fixture gives a

+ Less expenditure on air-very powerful wash effect. conditioningEconomical, the 330LF extends colour media life

Built-in dimmerdue to its low heat output, and requires fewer + N o n e e d f o r c o s t l y maintenance calls thanks to its extra-long-life

installation and cablingLED. It is particularly appreciated for its + Constant colour temperature electronic flicker-free dimmable PSU. The

when dimmingversatility offered by the choice of two colour + Flicker-free ideal for camera temperatures (3500K or 5800K) makes the

and studio work330LF perfect for studios, theatres, and events, Environmental protectionas well as architectural applications. + Low heat, low energy and no Very low power consumption

UV / IR emissions mean:+ Significant savings on the running costs+ Protection for the public; + Ideal for venues and events with limited

even when close to the poweraudienceExtra long LED life

+ Protection for sensitive + Fewer maintenance callsobjects: works of art , + Great for inaccessible areasmuseum exhibits and old + Perfect for long duration operationstheatre decorLow heat output

+ Less demanding on the environment+ Very long lasting gel filters

SA Distributor: ElectrosonicTel: 011 770 9800 www.electrosonic.co.za

SA Distributor: Electrosonic Tel: 011 770 9800 | www.electrosonic.co.za

Prices are recommended retail incl. 14% VATwww.numark.com

M101 USB

M3

M101

M2

M4

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READY FOR DIGITAL OR ANALOG

EXTREME MUSIC MANIPULATION

+ Two-channel rack-mountable mixer with USB+ USB audio built in for playing from or recording to your computer+ Two pairs of Phono/Line inputs+ Built-in 2-band EQ for quick,

easy sound tweaks

+ Two-channel rack-mountable mixer+ Two pairs of Phono/Line inputs+ Built-in 2-band EQ for quick,

easy sound tweaks+ 1/4-inch Mic input for

voiceovers and announcements

+ Two-channel tabletop DJ mixer+ Inputs: two phono/line switchable (RCA),

two line (RCA), mic (1/4")+ Outputs: Master (RCA), Record (RCA),

Headphone (1/4" stereo)+ Three-band EQ and gain on

each channel

+ Three-channel tabletop mixer+ Inputs: two phono/line switchable (RCA), four line (RCA), mic (1/4")+ Outputs: Master (RCA), Record (RCA), headphone (1/4" stereo)+ Steep three-band EQ/rotary kills on each channel

+ Two channel tabletop DJ mixer+ Inputs: two phono/line switchable (RCA),

two line (RCA), mic (1/4")+ Outputs: Master (RCA), Record (RCA),

Headphone (1/4" stereo)+ Three-band rotary EQ and

gain on each channel

DJ MIXERS &

For trade enquiries or to find your closest retailer call (011) 250 3280 | luis@hybrid.co.za | marco@hybrid.co.za | bernard@hybrid.co.za

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HEADPHONESM8

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VERSATILE MIXING WITH COMPUTER INTEGRATION

FOUR CHANNELS TO MIX, MATCH AND MANGLE ALL YOUR MUSIC

PROFESSIONAL DJ HEADPHONES

FOUR CHANNELS TO MIX, MATCH AND EFFECT ALL YOUR MUSIC

HEADPHONES DESIGNED BY DJs FOR DJs

+ Four channel DJ mixer+ Top Panel RCA input for portable MP3 Players+ Beatkeeper™ BPM

detection to create precise mixes between songs

+ Beat-synced effects Including:- Delay- Filter,- Flanger- Pan & more

+ Swivel design allowing DJs the flexibility to monitor house audio and cue audition

+ Breathable protein-leather padding that remains comfortable during extended use

+ Large 50 mm driver, neodynium magnet and voice coil for optimal frequency response

+ Balanced detachable headphone cable

with ¹⁄₈" adapter for

use with MP3 players

+ Four input channels, each with gain, three-band EQ, and LED metering

+ USB computer connection for playing and recordingwith Mac or PC

+ Play music from music-player software

+ Record your mix to your computer

+ Four channel DJ mixer+ Integrated dock for iPod for playback and

recording of sets+ Beatkeeper+ Beat-synced

effects including: - Delay- Filter- Flanger- Pan & more

+ Flexible 7-position independently adjustable dual ear cups

+ Large 40mm Mylar speaker drivers+ 6' tangle-resistant cord with 1/4” connector+ Padded headband and ear cups

14 | BPM

DJ GEAR American Audio MX1400-DSPBy Dave Mac

Price: R 6,821-00 | Supplier: Legacy BrandsTel: (011) 551 3296 | Web: www. americandj.eu

What is it?

Who should own one?

The Verdict

effects which offer 8 different FX with both X & Y parameter knobs. Aside

The MX1400-DSP is a 4-channel from the X/Y rotaries you have 6

professional analog DJ Mixer jam-additional presets with different beat

packed with every conceivable ratios as well as a tap button. The LCD

feature – and then some. screen display feeds back the

Built like a tank, the all metal calculated BPM for the master-out as

chassis is as solid as one could hope well as all necessary FX info.

for with every inch of the console – top fascia and back of the unit alike - used to cram in the massive feature list this unit offers. Let’s start at the The MX1400-DSP is a professional rear of the mixer first. The master mixer in every sense of the word. Very output offers both XLR and RCA, solidly built, feature-rich with booth outlet is via XLR and there is a professional quality connectors, set of REC-out RCA’s too. Two final sliders and rotaries, this mixer is ideal features on the very bottom back of for any club/venue or sound the console include a digital output specialist. Offering up more options (S/PDIF) and a clever little ‘trim than most will need with extremely output’ knob which, since it’s well versatile and easy to access inputs hidden away, is presumably for the and assignments, alongside a sound engineer to curb the final reasonable selection of FX and a output volume (other than the decent BPM calculator it’s an easy-to-Master volume knob) to protect the use unit that most DJs should feel loudspeakers should the mixer be completely comfortable with. above each channel strip; basically any connected directly without any additional one of the 4 channels can be assigned to mix ing desk and protect ion v ia absolutely any one of the input options on compressors etc. the rear on the unit. For example if you I was very impressed. Build quality is Above the recessed output section have a CD player plugged into ‘Line 1’ at excellent, knobs and sliders are robust but one finds all the obligatory input the back, you can make any one the 4 not ‘clunky’ and the connectivity options connections which include 4 line inputs, channels line 1; i.e. you are not governed are excellent. The FX aren’t exactly mind-and 3 phono inputs, all 3 of which can also by where you’ve physically plugged the blowing but they do the job. Other than no be switched between aux/phono. An player into on the rear of the unit. Nifty USB-connectivity, the MX1400-DSP additional third mic jack is also located on heh? covers all the bases admirably and should the rear along with a small little volume Alongside the channel assign knobs seriously be considered by club/venue attenuator. is a very handy set of RCA inputs called owners and sound companies looking to Finally there are 4 ‘fader control’ mini- ‘AUX 4 Input’- an ideally placed access keep their budget tight but still offer a pro jacks should you be using the mixer with point to plug a laptop in for DJs using solution. American DJ CD players to make use of the laptop/controller systems without having Q-control feature on the front console. to fiddle around at the back of unit. All the Basically with a compatible CD player the standard channel options exist; 3 band EQ, Q - c o n t r o l e n a b l e d b u t t o n w i l l gain knob, cue button, volume Leds and automatically start a track at its cue point A/B crossfader assignment. On the left are with the movement of the crossfader. two full-featured Mic inputs – XLR once

Onto the front of the mixer and one again – along with 3-band EQ, mute really is presented with a host of buttons; volume sliders and a talk over convenient connectivity options, the most button on each. The master volume is also notable of these being the assign knobs a slider and alongside this sits the DSP

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STUDIO GEAR Alesis Mic Tube Duo Stereo Tube Microphone

Preamplifier

"Alesis continue catering for semi-pro musicians and engineers with the recent release of their entry level Mic Tube Duo mic preamp. While not particularly packed with features, the two channel Mic Tube Duo is one of the most affordable tube

preamps around with a suggested retail price of R 1,895.”

By Nic Roos

SA Distributors: MD Musical Distributors | 021-799 4950 | www.musicaldistributors.co.zaSuggested Retail Prices: Mic Tube Solo - R 1,395-00 | Mic Tube Duo - R 1,895.00

Anatomy In Use

Summary

impedance instruments up to line level. Sending a 5 string Stingray bass through it

The compact rectangular brushed steel While tracking vocals with a condenser, the proved to be rather pleasant. The tube

enclosure bares a slight resemblance to Mic Tube is reasonably quiet, with a bit of a compression smoothes things out quite

the infamous (and expensive) Great River noise floor at higher gain settings. Tonally nicely as well as adds just a tiny touch of

ME-1NV mic preamp and houses a single it is fairly clean, slightly warm but overall warmth in the mids and rounding out the

12AX7 tube driving two channels in what nothing too remarkable, as should be ample lows.

Alesis say is a simplified, low-noise circuit expected in this price range. for purer signal fidelity. Each channel The 12AX7 tube may just be a features a XLR/TRS ¼ inch Hi Z instrument ‘marketing’ tube. Its influence on the input, balanced and unbalanced output, sound, via the drive control, is very slight. The Mic Tube Duo is not intended to set the phase reverse, a 20dB pad, an input gain There’s a barely noticeable roundness to audio world alight but it does perform control, a drive control that dials the mids, a boost in the extreme high basic functions cleanly and quietly at a amount of ‘vintage tube tone’, and a nice frequencies and a little bit of compression, good price. As for its ‘vintage tube tone’, it big LED output meter. There is also a global which does give a nice smooth yet does bring some very minor tonal qualities 48v phantom power switch for powering immediate attack to guitars. There to the table.condenser mics. certainly is no sign of the advertised ‘tube On a shoe-string budget, the Mic

The controls are very simply laid out overdrive‘, even when cranking the drive Tube Duo will get the job done well and the unit is very straight forward and control. So for those wanting to liven up enough, but in an arena of increasingly easy to use. There is also plenty of gain on their synths with a bit of ‘tube voodoo’ may over-achieving budget audio gadgets, it tap with more or less 65dB of clean gain be a bit disappointed as the overall tonal may have some stiff competition soon. including the 20dB pad. Alesis are not very characteristics added here are very subtle. I would love to see what Alesis do forthcoming about the product specs, However, because of its simple with the next generation. such as signal to noise ratios etc so how design it may be easy to modify the Duo if quiet it actually is remains unknown. you are that way inclined. For a start,

Apart from basic operational advice replacing the 12AX7 tube with one of a the reference material is not very higher quality may just bring some tonal informative. All promotional material for enhancements. This is standard practice the unit claims it has an 80Hz hi-pass filter for some audio nuts.but there isn’t one to be seen anywhere on The Mic Tube does however function the control panel. well as a DI box, bringing unbalanced low

In trying to solve this little mystery I discovered that the single channel version, the Mic Tube Solo, has in fact got a switchable 80Hz hi-pass filter, so I speculate that the Duo was originally meant to have one but was dropped before production and the marketing department was never informed.

http://www.benjaminstudio.co.za

TUTORIAL By Jonathan G Shaw

18 | BPM PRODUCTION TIPS

Jonathan Shaw is a professional record producer who has worked with a multitude of artists and record labels in a freelance capacity. Outside this, he lectures music business at the University of the Witwatersrand and provides business consultation to the music industry. jshaw@smstudios.co.za

Tricks from the Pro's 11:

Working on African Time?

S

Tapping tempo: resolution sets the beat note length (pretty much half- or double-time)

Tempo map with different tempos

alutations and greetings audio, but I still find this may not yield A lot of songs have one tempo, BPMings! Most modern the best results and only use it in however I can suggest that once you recorded mus ic i s special circumstances. have found your ideal tempo, produced on a tempo I find the best way to get the perhaps speeding it up one or two grid. A metronome is tempo right, first time, is to use the beats per minute (BPM) in a chorus used to make sure that “tap” feature, if your DAW has it. or bridge can help the song have every instrument is kept What this means is that you open a more vibe. Also, try not to just click-in time and for editing window within your DAW that allows click in all your percussion and drum

purposes helps create tight music. you to hit a key or mouse button tracks, but rather play them in as Deciding on what tempo a song is at, steadily and it calculates the tempo tightly as possible and then quantise is one of the most important for you. Hum the tune in your head at a bit. Done right, this can keep a feel decisions to get right for a great the speed that feels right to you, or in your tracks and make them be tight production. The other is what key the have the performer play their but groove well.song will be in, but that’s for another instrument in free time, and tap along column. with it. Then, depending on the song Play long and prosper!

For most electronic music, I’ll round it up or down to the closest Resistance to better sound is futile!which is based on MIDI sequencer beat per minute. So for songs that data, changing the tempo is simply a have a slower feel, maybe take it matter of trial and error as the music down a bit and for songs which will speed up and slow down as you groove more, take it up slightly. change the tempo on your DAW Then, play the track back, or have the system. For other music involving performer play with the click live instruments, it can place a lot (metronome) and see how they feel more pressure to get the tempo right and adjust again. With this to begin with, as changes to timing method, I very seldom have later can result in tiresome editing to adjust tempo later on.work that can be avoided by taking time to explore tempo correctly. These days you do have “elastic audio” which can stretch or pull-in

http://www.witsplus.wits.ac.za

For years owners of the legendary Akai MPC series have been able to create stuttering note repeats and drum rolls with the flick of a switch. Here's how to achieve these exact same

results with a copy of Ableton Live's Impulse Drum Machine and Beat Repeat.

Step 3.For the rest of our tutorial, everything will be handled in Ableton Live’s Beat Repeat. To get those authentic MPC stutters and rolls, we have to change a couple settings in Beat Repeat. Start off by bringing the Chance knob all the way down to 0% (as we will control the repeats manually).

Step 2.Open the Audio Effects folder in Ableton Live’s device browser and drag a copy of Beat Repeat onto the MIDI channel that is hosting Impulse. With the record button enabled, you should be able to play all 8 notes loaded on the Impulse on e i t h e r y o u r M I D I controller or computer keyboard (Starting on note C3).

Step 1.Under Ableton Live’s device browser, open the folder labelled Instruments. Next, locate the Impulse drum machine and click the arrow to the left of it, opening the presets. Double click on the Vintage Funky Good Time preset to load it in a new MIDI channel.

MPC Style Note Repeats in Ableton with Impulse and Beat Repeat

By abletonlife.com

20 | BPM

ABLETON TUTORIAL

21 | BPM

ABLETON TUTORIAL

Step 4.Next up, assign a key to the Repeat button on Beat Repeat. Do this by clicking either the Key or MIDI button on the top right of Ableton Live, double clicking the Repeat button and pressing the desired button you want assigned to it. After you’re finished, click once more on either the Key or MIDI button

Step 6.Start playing a beat on your MIDI controller. Every once in awhile, when it feels “right”, activate the Repeat button with the key you assigned earlier. You will hear the note you last played repeat. Try and catch a simple snare hit, or a kick drum, it takes a while to get used to, but practice and you will get a feel for how it works. To stop the repeating note, simply de-activate the Repeat button with the assigned MIDI key. Depending on your Grid settings, you will either hear a quick drum roll, or a slower drum roll (1/8 and 1/16 notes for a standard roll, while 1/12 and 1/6 can add an interesting triplet feel.)

Once you’ve mastered simple rolls, you can start playing with the Variation knob (randomizes the Grid settings for you) and even the Pitch and Decay knobs (tunes the drum hits up and down).

Step 5.Depending on whether or not you want your live drumming to be heard over the repeated notes, you can leave the Mix button selected, or activate the Ins button (which only plays the repeated note, your playing will be muted until you switch off the Repeat button).

22 | BPM

EDUCATION

W

The Business of Creativitynegotiable so exercise your right to negotiate. Of course it does not mean you will always get the fee o r p r i c e y o u h a v e requested, but at least you have the solace in knowing you t r i ed . N e g o t i a t i o n i s n o t arrogant; it is a perfectly legitimate way of paying less for a quality service or product, and of course if you want to earn more, t h e n n e g o t i a t e u p ! Conversely, if someone is attempting to negotiate a lower rate for your time and expertise, there are two words you need to use, yes or no.

Many of us believe that if we have recently graduated or have no significant commercial experience yet, that we have to start our career working for free. This e l i v e i n a when someone skilled takes himself or

belief suits prospective employers competitive world herself seriously because they have because they get to have your time and where there are self-respect and an ambitious desire to skill for no initial cost to them. Offering many more people forge a sustainable career.your services for free in the name of than sustainable ‘There are no jobs!’ This statement getting your foot in is in fact not astute. jobs. Most of us is absolutely true for those with a victim Remember, the lower that your income need to work to earn consciousness and a great motivation starts, the longer it takes to start earning a n i n c o m e t o to push harder for those who are a higher wage. There is also an survive, and love it ambitious. The truly committed do not extremely feint line between an or loathe it, money is quite literally the waste time blaming others and the internship (due-paying employment currency of the planet and we need to system because they are busy letting period) and being a slave. Good ole’ earn some if we want to be a part of it. the world know they exist and that they fashioned hard work is a given, but In the realm of the creative arts and want to make a significant contribution. slavery doesn’t have a good reputation.creative media technologies there is no Genuinely ambitious people actually

Another reality to consider is that it shortage of sublime talent and skill. benefit from the masses complaining is not unique for you to offer your Sadly, many of these incredibly talented because it provides them with less services (initially) for free because folk completely undersell themselves if competition while they are creating recent graduates and newcomers to the they even attempt to promote their their networks and careers. Esteemed industry do this every day. Show skills at all. Many of us naively believe friends, the bottom line is that too few of evidence of your self-respect and that if we have skill, passion and us dig deep enough, face our ever-entrepreneurial spirit by thoroughly integrity, it is only a matter of time present fears and go and get what we researching what people are paying and before the world hears about us and really, really want from our careers. where you fit into that. Ironically, astute utilises our skills. Wrong. A person or Many of us were raised with the employers will in fact question how organisation cannot hire us if they don’t moniker of ‘I want doesn’t get’. What valuable you actually are if you offer know we exist! For many of us self- rubbish!! How can we get what we want your time and knowledge for free. In the promotion does not come naturally but, if a) we don’t know what it is, or b) we context of employment, it is generally deliberate promotion of ourselves is not don’t tell the whole world about it when evident within a few moments of simply necessary but vital if we want to we do?interaction that the prospective client or earn a living off our talent. Let us stop Many of us are terrified of employer will determine if we have the suffering for our art and get sharp! The negotiation and consequently accept all elusive something special or if we are world does not take talented airheads lower fees or less than what we believe simply seeking employment to earn an seriously. The world pays attention we are genuinely worth. Everything is income to survive.

By David Maclean

23 | BPM

EDUCATION

or a 3rd party. Feel the fear and do it anyway as the author Susan Jeffers encourages.

Many of us shy away from handling our business affairs astutely because we believe that these skills kill our creat iv i ty and are only bestowed on special people. Let us wake up and take ownership of our lives, our income, and our careers, and stop waiting for others to rescue us. Asking for what we want, negotiating a price or

Dear friends, creativity and rate and being the architect of talent alone are simply not the quality of our own lives is sufficient enough to earn a mostly common sense and not decent l iving from our rocket science. The world is full productions. We need to be of flakes waiting for others to business-like and take our save them. Let us not attempt to t ime and cont r ibu t ion live off the money earned by seriously. The world is others and let’s earn our own. overstocked with creative We can achieve this by asking folk who are clueless about for what we want, ensuring we business. The result is they are completely informed of the are broke, bitter and bored. parameters and legalities This of course is the pertaining to our chosen field, antithesis of an attractive a l w a y s n e g o t i a t e , a n d employment prospect. contribute to the quality of

Professionals invoice superior productions and to our promptly, pay for services p e r s o n a l a n d N a t i o n a l they have received without economies while we are about delay and pick up the phone it.to deal with an individual or Earning a decent income company in-person who owe do ing what we love i s them money. Never, ever, feel c o m p l e t e l y p o s s i b l e . self-conscious to follow up Ambitious people across the on money you are owed for globe are doing it as you read quality work you have this.delivered on time. You have Have fun, know what you kept your s ide of the want, and go and get it without agreement, and if a client is in compromising your own arrears with payment to you, integrity or the dignity of you have absolutely nothing others.to fear. Make the call and get your money. Never deal with these matters via email, SMS

David Maclean | a Brief Biography David Maclean is a mastering engineer, educator and business executive with two decades of experience in the music industry and tertiary education sector. David is the Director of SAE Institute South Africa and is based at their campus in Cape Town. The SAE Group has 54 campuses across the globe. David understands the attitudes and opinions of the industry professionals within the creative media industries and the educators and authorities within Higher Education in South Africa and abroad based on his unusual portfolio of skills in business, education and creative media technologies.