Pioneer DJ presents the RMX-1000: all the potential of software with the hands-on usability of pro-DJ hardware.
Pioneeris setting a new benchmark in pro-DJ equipment, with the awe-inspiring RMX-1000 remix station. Taking a totally new direction to effectors and samplers, the RMX-1000 is a three-in-one system comprising editing software, innovative performance hardware and VST and AU plug-ins.
Technological innovation is in Pioneer’s DNA. So only we could produce a remix station that not only manipulates the input sound, but also lets DJs produce new beats and sounds and trigger personalised samples on the fly. And, thanks to our Quantize function, they'll always be in time with their sets.
The RMX-1000 serves up all the possibilities of studio effects and beatboxes, with the added physicality of pro-DJ equipment. Intuitive performance interfaces from Pioneer’s flagship mixers and effectors – such as the DJM-2000’s Isolator FX, the DJM-900nexus’s X-Pad and the EFX-1000’s multiple FX chaining – have been evolved and brought together into one unit.
Simplifying these concepts even further, the RMX-1000 uses intuitive DJ controls to manipulate several parameters in macro. Each effect has been designed to work in a totally unique way with the interface, for results previously only possible with hours of studio automation or robot-like performance skills.
While the unit is incredibly simple to operate, DJs can still create a totally unique sound with Pioneer’s remixbox™ editing software. remixbox allows DJs to completely customise the RMX-1000 hardware to their own performance style and load it up with their own banks of samples.
And, by saving their settings to an SD card, DJs can effectively take their own personalised DJ rig with them wherever they perform. Plus, Pioneer plans to upload internationally renowned DJs’ settings and samples to its website so DJs can give themselves a head start.
Using the RMX-1000 as a USB controller for the, included, RMX-1000 VST and AU plug-ins gives DJs the same hands-on feel they get with studio DJ mixes, saving them from hours of editing and breathing new life into studio productions.
The RMX-1000 will be available from May 2012 at a SRP of 599 GBP/699 EUR, including VAT.
Key features of the RMX-1000
1. Club quality and fully customisable remix station unit
The ultimate multi-use unit, the RMX-1000 can be used with mixers, CDJs and laptops in the booth, or with a PC in the studio for recording and producing.
With fully customisable settings, the RMX-1000 offers the kind of flexibility never before seen in hardware. The control parameters can be completely modified using the remixbox software included.
The hardware offers three ways to access settings. Default activates Pioneer’s intuitive factory settings. And User settings can be stored on the unit, or on an SD card to be taken along to the booth – DJs simply plug their SD card in to get immediate access to their personalised controls. And Pioneer plans to make settings from internationally renowned DJs such as Chuckie, Kissy Sell Out, Kutski, James Zabiela, Doorly and Laidback Luke available for DJs to download.
The unit’s user-friendly, intuitive controls are divided into four categories:
Scene FX
- The Scene FX wheel allows DJs to build up and break down tracks by combining ten types of effects.
- Use the top section to build up, adding effects like Noise, Echo and Spiral Up and the bottom section to break down, cutting sounds with effects like Crush Echo, Spiral Down and Reverb Down.
- Twist the central knob to move from Wet to Dry to add pitch and intensity to the effect that’s in play.
- Plus, two sub-parameter dials allow DJs to manipulate the Time and Resonance parameters for even more character.
Isolator FX
- Inherited from Pioneer’s high-end DJM-1000 mixer, the RMX-1000’s isolators allow DJs to change the main audio input’s rhythm and timbre using hi-, mid- and low-frequency bands.
- Plus, three effects are loaded into the dials for even more flexibility: Cut/Add, Trans/Roll and Gate/Drive.
X-Pad – with exclusive Pitch control
- DJs will be itching to get their fingers on the RMX-1000’s intuitive X-Pad. Evolved from Pioneer’s flagship mixer, the DJM-900nexus, the touch-sensitive X-Pad reaches new levels of ingenuity on the RMX-1000.
- DJs can instantly get involved with the unit’s drum samples by tapping the individual sample buttons (Kick, Snare, Clap and Hi-Hat), or by using the X-Pad to roll (repeat) the samples at different speeds.
- DJs can record their own beats and patterns on the fly by switching on Overdub, then use Roll and Mute to manipulate each sample in a variety of impressive combinations.
- The Quantize button snaps each tap of the sample pads to the nearest beat, so DJs always sound on time.
- And for truly unique performances, DJs can add up to 16 samples across the four sample banks, which they can instantly trigger and manipulate during live performance.
- For unprecedented flexibility on the fly, DJs can edit the sample banks through remixbox and even alter them during play.
- And, as if that wasn’t enough, the RMX-1000’s exclusive Pitch knob alters the pitch to add even more character to each repeated beat.
Release FX
- The DJ’s get-out-of-jail-free card, the Release FX allows DJs to elegantly and seamlessly exit complex effect combinations and return to the original track.
- Three modes with three customisable speeds – Spin Back, Echo and Break – allow DJs to choose exactly how they want to return to normal play.
- For even more flexibility, DJs don’t have to exit totally from the engaged effect; they can come partially out and go back in by manipulating the highly sensitive Release switch. Or they can cut the original track out completely so just the engaged effects are heard.
2. Fully customisable with specially designed remixboxsoftware
Designed by Pioneer exclusively for the RMX-1000, the remixboxsoftware allows DJs to prepare mind-blowing sets – while the hardware leaves plenty of room for spontaneity on the night.
And DJs can use the software to modify the unit’s features and change its parameters for a truly personalised DJing experience. By hovering their mouse over the remixbox’s virtual RMX-1000, DJs can edit features, change parameters or adjust effects on the hardware itself.
3. First DJ-dedicated controller for Virtual Studio Technology/Audio Units
As the first VST/AU controller dedicated to the DJ industry, the RMX-1000 brings the operability of hardware into the recording studio.
By just plugging the unit into a laptop, DJs and producers can use the RMX-1000’s dedicated controls to manipulate the VST/AU’s exciting features.
There’s no need to fiddle around with the mouse and keyboard: just hit a button, twist a dial, or turn a knob – the RMX-1000 literally puts every effect right at producers’ fingertips.
4. Other features
- High-quality sound design reduces noise for clear and pristine sound.
- The Quantize function can be applied at any stage during play or production for real-time music analysis and automatic synchronisation of the beat.
- NEW Auto BPM function automatically measures and follows the tempo of the music.
- USB-MIDI connection means the RMX-1000 can be used as a MIDI controller.
- Compact and sleek design makes the RMX-1000 highly portable – and it looks good as part of any DJ set-up.
Now that sounds stylish - Pioneer unveils black chrome version of its high-end HDJ-2000 headphones
Pioneer’s flagship headphones, the HDJ-2000s, have long been favourites among those who demand both style and sound quality.
And now DJs and producers have even more choice as Pioneer launches a black chrome model – for headphones that are as easy on the eye as they are on the ear.
Joining Pioneer’s ranks alongside the original silver HDJ-2000s, the sleek black HJD-2000-Ks allow DJs to match their headphones to their equipment, their studio, their favourite club, or even their clothing.
Plus, the matching HDJ-HC01 carrying case, designed exclusively for the HDJ-2000 range,means that the headphones are every bit as portable as they are stylish.
The HDJ-2000-K headphones and the HDJ-HC01 carrying case, which is sold separately, will be available from March 2012 at a SRP of 269 GBP/320 EUR and 21.99 GBP/35 EUR respectively.
KEY FEATURES OF THE HDJ-2000-Ks
1.) Stylish black chrome design
Made from solid magnesium alloy with a glossy black chrome finish, the sleek HDJ-2000-Ks complement Pioneer’s industry-standard DJ equipment and look good in every environment.
2.) Outstanding resolution and sound quality
Superb clarity with clear separation of sound is guaranteed with the HDJ-2000-Ks’ high-fidelity frequency response of 5 Hz to 30,000 Hz, regardless of background noise. Distortion is eliminated completely - even at sustained high volumes - thanks to the robust construction of the headphones and the capacity for 3,500 mW of input.
The HDJ-2000-Ks’ 50 mm driver units and high-flux magnets create outstanding resolution, while a 38 μm-thick diaphragm delivers plenty of bass. A voice coil rolled at the optimum width and frequency, meanwhile, produces excellent balance from bass to treble. Plus, the ear pads’ damper and airtight stitching deliver excellent sound insulation.
3.) Comfortable to wear, enabling long DJ play
The HDJ-2000-Ks’ rugged but lightweight material and DJ-friendly swivel/fold design make them perfect for prolonged wear. Snug-fitting, heat-sensitive ear pads - made from synthetic protein leather and low-rebound urethane foam (memory foam) - offer excellent sound insulation and comfort during long sets. And one-ear monitoring is a breeze with the headphones’ convenient STEREO/MONO switch and flexible headband.
4.) i-hinge mechanism with auto-return
For maximum flexibility, each ear cup swivels a full 90 degrees thanks to the HDJ-2000-Ks’ i-hinge with auto-return feature – perfect for DJs who prefer ‘on-the-shoulder’ monitoring. DJs can also opt for Pioneer’s above-the-lobe ear pads, which are sold separately and sit directly on the skin, providing an airtight seal for even greater sound isolation.
5.) Excellent durability for the rigours of professional use
An improved, more robust connection between the headphones’ main unit and cable make the HDJ-2000-Ks ideal for pro-DJs. A removable mini-XLR connector means that the cord can easily be disconnected during transit and even replaced if it gets damaged. Plus, theswivel/fold mechanism allows the HDJ-2000-Ksto be folded in on themselves, making them easy to transport from gig to gig.
6.) Available accessories – exclusive HDJ-HC01 carrying case
Specially designed for the HDJ-2000 range, the slim and lightweight HDJ-HC01holds the headphones perfectly for the ultimate in stylish portability. For added convenience, accessories such as USB memory sticks and SD cards can be stored in the HDJ-HC01’s pocket.
MAIN SPECIFICATIONS
Form Airtight dynamic stereo headphones
Frequency range 5 Hz to 30,000 Hz
Impedance 36 Ω
Maximum input 3,500 mW
Output sound pressure level 107 dB/mW
Unit φ 50 mm dome type
Plug φ 3.5 mm 3P mini-plug (metal-plated, with screws)
Weight 290 g (excluding cord)
Accessories φ 6.3 mm 3P plug adapted (metal-plated, 2-way, with screws)
Carrying pouch
Connection cord 1.2 m curled cord (approximately 3.0 m when extended, OFC, removable type)
With two colour choices, four channels, one hundred effect combinations and endless creative possibilities, the new DJM-850 is set to become home and mobile DJs’ most sought-after mixer.
The DJM-850 is primed and ready for plug and play, with preconfigured, studio-quality effects accessible at the touch of a button. The mixer rivals software’s creative possibilities liberating DJs from their laptops and allowing for a more natural DJing experience.
The DJM-850 is the perfect choice at this price point because it retains its predecessor’s most popular features, inherits the high-end build of Pioneer’s club-standard DJM-900nexus, and adds a few innovative effects of its own.
The DJM-850’s Beat Colour Effect, an industry first, uses sidechaining to add another layer of control to Pioneer’s brilliantly simple Colour Effects. The Beat Effect ‘listens’ to the audio input of each channel and connects the changes in volume to other parameters, so DJs can flawlessly blend new sounds and effects into their mixes.
And the DJM-850’s integrated four-stereo-channel sound card makes setup incredibly simple, with connection to PCs and laptops requiring just one cable.
The glossy black DJM-850-K and sleek silver DJM-850-S will be available from late March 2012 at a SRP of 1,499 EUR/1,299 GBP each, including VAT.
KEY FEATURES OF THE DJM-850
1.) Built-in four-stereo-channel sound card
- The DJM-850 boasts an integrated high-performance sound card, enabling simultaneous input and output with 24-bit/96 kHz processing, so there is no deterioration of sound quality as it passes through the mixer.
- With three sampling rates (96 kHz/48 kHz/44.1 kHz), the DJM-850 can be used for music recording and production as well as expert DJing.
- Connection to PCs or laptops requires just one USB cable, so DJs can start mixing their stored music immediately. And software devotees can make the most of scratch control thanks to the mixer’s compatibility with the timecode feature on Digital Vinyl Systems, such as Traktor.
- Pioneer’s handy utility tool launches as soon as the DJM-850 is connected to a computer, allowing DJs to configure the mixer, sound card and audio routing according to their personal preferences.
2.) Beat Colour Effect – INDUSTRY FIRST
- The DJM-850 harnesses the power of the highly popular studio technique of sidechaining to add a new element to Pioneer’s wonderfully simple Colour Effects without making them any more complicated to use.
- By engaging the Beat button, another dimension of control is automatically added when you apply the Colour Effects. The Beat Colour Effect ‘listens’ to the audio input of each channel and directly connects the rhythmical changes in volume to another parameter: resonance for Filter and Crush, beat repeat for Cutter and ducking volume for the Noise Effect.
- This extra layer of control has become a staple of dance music production because of the way it blends new sounds and effects perfectly into the mix.
3.) Improved Beat Effects with new ‘FX Boost’
- The mixer offers DJs 13 enhanced Beat Effects. Along with old favourites, the DJM-850 inherits the incredibly high-quality Reverb and tripped out sound of the tape echo-inspired Spiral Effect from the DJM-900nexus. And, exclusive to the DJM-850, Pioneer introduces Up Echo, which produces a more reserved and controllable mix.
- Replicating the sound effects achieved by the DJM-900nexus’s touch-sensitive X-Pad, the ‘FX Boost’ function allows the Level/Depth knob to work more proactively than a standard Wet/Dry Control. Turn the dial to the 12 o’clock mark for a fully wet effect and turn it further to add Pitch Up to Up Echo and a High-Pass Filter to the Reverb.
4.) EQ isolator on each channel
- Each channel is home to a three-band equalizer (+6 dB to -26 dB) or three-band isolator (+6 dB to -∞dB).
- Emulating the isolator on Pioneer’s installation-grade DJM-1000, the DJM-850’s equalizer straddles the range from -26 kill to complete kill.
5.) High-quality sound and familiar, industry-standard layout
- Pristine sound reproduction with reduced noise interference is guaranteed thanks to the DJM-850’s top-of-the-range components: a 32-bit output D/A convertor; a 32-bit digital signal processor; the separation of analogue and digital circuitry; and the shortest possible transmission path.
- The DJM-850’s interface mirrors the user-friendly layout of Pioneer’s club-standard mixers for ultimate familiarity, wherever DJs perform.
6.) Durable build for DJs who love to play
- The internal parts of the DJM-850’s high-performance faders are nestled well out of harm’s way, so drink spillages aren’t the disaster they are with other mixers.
- Pioneer’s P-Lock Fader Caps prevent the faders from slipping off accidentally during rough use.
7.) Other features
- Fully MIDI assignable, the DJM-850 also serves as a MIDI controller.
- The USB port is conveniently located on top of the mixer so DJs can easily switch between connectable devices.
- The mixer automatically reverts to standby mode if it is not used for a set period of time
MAIN SPECIFICATIONS - DJM-850
Number of channels
Audio 4-channel, MIC 2-channel
Inputs
CD/Line x 4 (RCA), Line x 2 (RCA), Phono x 2 (RCA)
MIC x 2 (XLR and 1/4-inch Jack combined use x 1, 1/4-inch Jack x 1)
Outputs
Master Out x 2 (RCA x 1, XLR x 1)
Booth Out x 1 (1/4-inch Jack)
Headphone Monitor Out x 1 (top side 1/4-inch Jack)
REC Out x 1 (RCA)
Digital Out x 1 (Coaxial)
Other ports
Send x 1 (1/4-inch Jack), Return x 1 (1/4-inch Jack)
MIDI Out x 1 (5P DIN), USB x 1 (top side B port), Control x 4 (Φ 3.5 mm mini-jack)
Well! Here we go again, with another gear review. Slowly but surely we are starting to get some really interesting things on which to review. This week. its the new Yaro system from Kanto AV. This affordable 2 channel system is backed up and processed by some very sweet Bang and Olufsen ICEpower technology. The msrp on this 2 channel system (not including the optional sub) is $329 Canadian which makes it ridiculously affordable in comparison to its closest competitor. The competitor we speak of the is that neat little system from Bose, called the Cinemate II system. Straight out of the box the sound is definitely superior for the price. We haven't had a chance to check it out with the optional Yaro Sub, however if we do, this will be updated to reflect.
Lets start this right from the beginning. The box arrives, you get all excited to play with a new toy, but first, you have to admire the interesting box the system is shipped in. Multi lingual, and also has some nifty old school type ties on the top.
So those into recycling I'm sure you can easily come up with something to do with the box once it is empty.
Continuing on, you open the ties and pop open the top. You are then greeted with the instruction manual. Most typical guys will just skip this and continue on to see what other good things are hidden in the box. I was remarkably surprised that for the price the guys at Kanto had even included the battery for the remote AND two high quality optical audio cables.... you know, the ones that cost you over 30 bucks at the store EACH.So in the "bits" box you find, 2 optical audio cables, the remote, a battery, the feet for the speakers, a headphone jack style connector and the speaker wire. removing the next layer of styro foam you come across the YARO amp and bellow that, the two speakers.
The fun part starts now. Its very easy to connect everything, screw the speaker wires onto the gold plated connector posts, connect the audio sources and then finally the power. Don't forget to add the battery to the remote. On first notice almost everything is of super high quality. Then there is the remote. Its super functional and does its job very well but it just doesn't have the super high quality look and feel of everything else. Honestly, not a big deal as its the sound quality and durability we care about, it was just a surprise it didn't have that 100% super sexy finesse that everything else did.
On to the audio quality, what we really all care about. first impression, wow, my surround sound system can now go to the home theater project in the basement and I can free up a pile of space. this makes watching my plasma much more enjoyable. I'v been on a power savings kick lately so these use way less power than my home theater system and sound a thousand times better than the ghetto speakers that LG decided was a good idea to have installed on their 50+ inch plasma tvs. Apple TV test one, its a success! no thinking required 100% plug and play! The PS3 test had me scratching my head for a few minutes until I found the section that allowed multiple audio output from the system. The Yaro flawlessly switched between audio sources with no thinking on my part required.
When you first turn the system on it is completely silent, just a slight click and the front facing led comes on. Once the YARO system identifies that an audio signal is present there is kinda a weird little clicky pop sound and then the audio hit your. Its a very warm full sound that you have a hard time believing is coming from such a small system, the highs are clear, the mids are warm and full, the bottom end is surprisingly impressive without the sub. I think I'm definitely going to have to order the sub just so I can get that extra thump that I love but its really not necessary. I really do love the fact that Kanto produces such a high end speaker. I already had one of the SYD5 systems and love it. The fact that they use real wood and high quality components really speaks to the care they put into your audio experience. Still not a big fan of the remote, but overall I can so far say that the audiophile in me is more than happy with this product and I will be updating this review to ensure its accuracy.
Think your product fits the bills for a DanceRadio.ca review? Can it handle the fire of an open honest review?
Drop me an email and we can chat about it. djtr@danceradio.ca NO I will not endorse your product unless it deserves it!
Well! Here we go again, with another gear review. Slowly but surely we are starting to get some really interesting things on which to review. This week. its the new Yaro system from Kanto AV. This affordable 2 channel system is backed up and processed by some very sweet Bang and Olufsen ICEpower technology. The msrp on this 2 channel system (not including the optional sub) is $329 Canadian which makes it ridiculously affordable in comparison to its closest competitor. The competitor we speak of the is that neat little system from Bose, called the Cinemate II system. Straight out of the box the sound is definitely superior for the price. We haven't had a chance to check it out with the optional Yaro Sub, however if we do, this will be updated to reflect.
