OVERVIEW
This is the upgraded version of Gemini's popular IKey portable recorder. The IKey can record any line-out audio source onto a USB hard drive, flash drive, or even an Apple iPod, all in real-time. This Plus version offers several impressive enhancements from...
expand review the basic Ikey including: upgraded sound quality options (up to 320 kbps MP3 and WAV), a built-in phono pre-amp for recording directly from a turntable, a new mic input with included stereo mic, a VU meter display for monitoring recording levels, and a headphone output for monitoring.
HOW IT WORKS
The Ikey works without any software. Simply plug in your audio source (mixer, turntable, mic, guitar) into the RCA or mic input, then plug in your hard drive, flash drive, or iPod into the USB output. Press record and the Ikey is activated. If you are recording into your iPod, the resulting audio file will appear as a song in your song list. Recording options include sound quality selector (MP3 128, 192, 256, 320 kbps or WAV), a recording level control, and a line / phone / mic input selector.
The Ikey Plus is completely portable weighing approximately 2 lbs. and measuring approximately 5.5" x 1" x 3.25". It is powered by either (4) AA batteries (not included) or the included power supply.
OUR OPINION
The Ikey is a powerful, portable device for recording DJ sets, samples, and instrument sketches. With its enhanced sound quality, it rivals any portable recorder on the market. It does not include an internal hard drive or playback options, but this is reflected in the very affordable price. The IKey is especially recommended for use with an iPod, which allows for instant playback. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
This is the improved USB version of the Numark TTX turntable. The impressive features of the TTX are now paired with the ability to digitize your vinyl without the need for an audio interface via USB plug and play compatibility for both...
expand review Mac and Windows PCs at no extra cost. Includes all necessary cables as well as software for removing clicks and pops.
FEATURES
As a pro turntable, the TTX is a very viable option to the classic 1200. This turntable will function like a 1200 in basic features, but also adds many new digital features and improvements. It's evident that Numark had turntablists in mind when designing this turntable, but most of the features come in handy for non-turntablist DJs as well. For starters, it includes both a straight arm and s-shaped tonearm. Some would argue the straight arm is better for scratching (more skip resistant), whereas the classic S-Shaped tonearm is better for mixing. The pitch control (+/- 10, 20 and 50% selectable pitch ranges with key (chord) control) is movable and can be rotated for battle or regular position. The digital display features vital BPM and RPM information (plays 33 / 45 / 78 and reverse) and all the connections are detachable (power, RCA, and ground wire). The construction is as solid as the 1200, weighs more than the 1200, and features a similar steel top and rubber base construction. Add the USB connectivity and you can safely say Numark has covered all the bases.
OUR OPINION
Like all the other turntables that have come along over the years trying to compete with the Technics 1200, we were initially skeptical about the performance of the TTX, which has been hailed by many as the next step. But after inspection and testing, we must first applaud Numark for their vast improvements in product quality. The TTX-1 is leaps and bounds beyond the sub-par quality that they had become notorious years back. That being said, the TTX-1 is quite impressive. Beyond the list of new features and improvements (see below), it is solidly built (even heavier than a 1200) with an extremely strong motor (stronger torque than 1200), great start-up time and accurate pitch control. With the addition of USB connectivity (which eliminates the need for an audio interface when digitizing vinyl), Numark has included a very necessary tool for today's DJ. -snackmaster
OVERVIEW
The Rocport 160 SU is excellent for users who frequently transport their hard drives. This hard drive features an extremely portable size (5.8"W x 8.7"D x 1.6"H - fits in your hand), high speed eSATA and USB 2.0 ports, plug and play...
expand review (no drivers needed) and cross platform compatibiliy. It's shock absorbant casing and enhanced shock resistant mechanism will protect the drive against impact damage, accidental drops and bumps making this an especially good choice for DJs and producers on the go.
FEATURES
In addition to it's portable size and enhanced shock resistant mechanism, the Rocport also features the ground-breaking DuoLink connector; two ports in one, speeds up to 150MB per second, an aluminum enclosure that allows for excellent dissipation of heat, auto-configuration and plug and play, hot-pluggable capability (makes it possible to connect and disconnect the Rocstor drive without powering off computer), and versatile cross-platform compatibility (Mac, Linux, and PC). -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The Rocport 160 SU is excellent for users who frequently transport their hard drives. This hard drive features an extremely portable size (5.8"W x 8.7"D x 1.6"H - fits in your hand), high speed eSATA and USB 2.0 ports, plug and play...
expand review (no drivers needed) and cross platform compatibiliy. It's shock absorbant casing and enhanced shock resistant mechanism will protect the drive against impact damage, accidental drops and bumps making this an especially good choice for DJs and producers on the go.
FEATURES
In addition to it's portable size and enhanced shock resistant mechanism, the Rocport also features the ground-breaking DuoLink connector; two ports in one, speeds up to 150MB per second, an aluminum enclosure that allows for excellent dissipation of heat, auto-configuration and plug and play, hot-pluggable capability (makes it possible to connect and disconnect the Rocstor drive without powering off computer), and versatile cross-platform compatibility (Mac, Linux, and PC). -the mgmnt
Flash drives are a great way to keep a portable hard drive on you at all times. They are small enough to fit on your keychain and safely store your data. This particular model features a 1GB capacity and the unique Micro...
expand review Vault technology that compresses your data even further to virtually store up to 3GB. The retractable USB drive keeps the connections clean. This device is especially useful for exchanging data on the go and swapping songs for the savvy digital DJ. Works with both Mac and PC. Recommended. -the mgmnt
The VAI-40 is Vestax's simple, no hassle USB audio interface geared specifically for producers and digital DJs alike. It features a total of 4 RCA inputs and 4 RCA outputs (2x2 Stereo) a 1/4" stereo headphone out (w/ 60mW amp), and is...
expand review completely USB powered. Best of all, the VAI-40 is fully compatible with all major digital DJ applications (Traktor, Serato, Pioneer DJS, etc) and works with USB DJ controllers (like the Vestax VCI-100). In addition, this interface supports ASIO 2.0, MME/WDM (2 in 2 out) and CoreAudio drivers which makes it full compatible with major production software such as Cubase, Ableton, Sonar, and more. The VAI-40's slim profile and sleek metal contruction also makes the unit sturdy, easy to transport and fit in tight spaces (like small DJ booths). Works with both PC and Mac. -the mgmnt
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