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Topic: Mixer? - Page: 2

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I would also like to sugget to you audio that if you are not comfortable with Behringer mixers and the $300 Vestax mixers don't have enough features, go with Numark. You can get a good Numark mixer with many features for $200 to $300.


OO
 
Posted Tue 30 Nov 04 @ 7:11 pm
Aaah yes, I knew I forgot something: Vestax!


Killabee44
 
Posted Tue 30 Nov 04 @ 11:10 pm
Your suggestion to audio on the first page of this thread is the most important Killabee44: “You should really go to a store and check out the ones there, then decide for yourself.” Especially if he plans on doing a lot of scratching—he needs to feel comfortable with the crossfader.

Regarding a comment that I posted above to audio, “Do you need effects and a sampler on your mixer? No! VDJ has all this and more…” You can still get one that has effects and a sampler on it if you really want to be creative. You can add effects from the mixer on top of effects from VDJ. I had a Roland DJ 2000 mixer that had effects on it. You can do some interesting things with effects.

OO
 
Posted Wed 01 Dec 04 @ 12:30 am
audioPRO InfinityMember since 2004
Ok. Those last few posts do help. I mostly want to get comfortable with beat matching, not too concerned with scratching right at the moment. Im very much into techno (progressive, trance, breaks, dnb) and have actually produced some of my own stuff using acid and other sound forge programs. I think im just going to go with the behringer 626 to learn on, i mean, worse comes to worse, its only like 80 bucks so not a big hit on the pocket book. I think the 3 channels will be plenty for me for awhile until i get comfortable with my abilities (it will probabley take awhile, im sort of a perfectionist and will sit and do something over and over again until i perfect it). I also like the fact that it has low, mid, and high adjustability on it.

From there i plan on slowly saving up money and buying some vinyl tables and getting into that as well. So, im sure there will be future posts from myself on that subject. Thanks again guys!
 
Posted Wed 01 Dec 04 @ 6:44 am
dj kiteman: “i read where you should try to have 3 inputs/channels---I notice your series 5 vestx only has 2... im assuming you split them? I'm sure I can do that.
Three hundred for the mixer---I was kind of hoping to get something less $$ however, if you really think it's worth the extra money for what I want to do... I'll go with that... Why am I going to go w/ something cheaper only to find out I need more... Might as well go with that...”

If your emphasis will be on Turntablism (the art of scratching), a two-channel mixer is what most Turntablist prefer. QBert uses a two-channel Vestax mixer in this dvd:

http://www.pssl.com/bitemdetail.tpl?eqint_KeyIDdata=31069&UID=2004070212472196#PI

I can’t tell you what to buy—only you can make that decision. This thread contains enough information for you to narrow your choices. Look at audio’s last post, “I think im just going to go with the behringer 626 to learn on, i mean, worse comes to worse, its only like 80 bucks so not a big hit on the pocket book.” He read all the suggestions and decided that his budget is more important at this time. However, you might see things differently. Consequently, if you are willing to spend the money, then the Vestax is a good choice. If you want a less expensive scratch mixer, then take a look at this Stanton “DJ Craze” Signature mixer:

http://www.pssl.com/bitemdetail.tpl?eqint_KeyIDdata=34817&UID=2004070212472196

If you don’t know who DJ Craze is, then take a look at this:

http://www.pssl.com/bitemdetail.tpl?eqint_KeyIDdata=36871&UID=2004070212472196

He is the DJ that’s depicted.

dj kiteman: “Well let me ask you one more question.. Does Vestax have one that has BPM? I can match beats.. but for the simplicity of doing things, I'm sure I can use the feature...”

This is not a necessary feature because VDJ has it. However, you might find it easier to beat mix using the BPM display on a mixer—it's always good to have a choice. I prefer to fine-tune my beat mixes by ear. For more info on Vestax mixers, go here: http://www.vestax.com

dj kiteman: “what about these vestax --turntables... should i go with 1200's or should i go with the vestax PDX 2000--what do u think?” The 1200’s is the most popular turntable for Turntablist to use. See this:

http://www.pssl.com/bitemdetail.tpl?eqint_KeyIDdata=34069&UID=2004070212472196

However, it depends on your budget and preference. If you research both turntables, the Vestax has better technology on it in my opinion:

http://www.pssl.com/bitemdetail.tpl?eqint_KeyIDdata=2559&UID=2004070212472196
http://www.pssl.com/bitemdetail.tpl?eqint_KeyIDdata=11169&UID=2004070212472196

You should find a reputable DJ equipment retailer, and test different mixers and turntables—take some vinyl with you. Another option is to rent one 1200 and one Vestax with a mixer that you are interested in and really test them out (if it doesn't cost too much). Once you make a decision, shop around for the best price. If you want a good quality and inexpensive scratch system, then consider this:

http://www.pssl.com/bitemdetail.tpl?eqint_KeyIDdata=36871&UID=2004070212472196
http://www.pssl.com/bitemdetail.tpl?eqint_KeyIDdata=34259&UID=2004070212472196
http://www.pssl.com/bitemdetail.tpl?eqint_KeyIDdata=12724&UID=2004070212472196 (I have this cartridge).

This quality setup will you about $700. Two 1200’s and a $300 Vestax mixer will cost you about $1,300. If you include two DJ Craze cartridges, the total cost goes up to $1,400. If I were a DJ just starting off, I would go with the Stanton $700 setup. Once I start making money DJing, I would eventually buy the better setup—its good to have extra equipment. Once you buy a better setup, you can rent out your other setup.

In closing, only you can make the final decision.

OO
 
Posted Wed 01 Dec 04 @ 8:47 pm
 
Posted Wed 01 Dec 04 @ 10:36 pm
Thanks OO- I think I will wind up taking your suggestions with the Vestax mixer. I'm not even going to be doing any real DJ'ing. This is really a home set-up-- however my budget can squeeze a $300 mixer.
I like to throw parties. But what I care for the most is to learn how to scratch. It's gonna be cool. Your suggestions to visit a DJ store and try some equipment. I'll heed your recommendation on the needles.
I noticed there is a difference with the options that other vextax mixers have. One is specifically designed for house music. The fader fades differently than the scratch mixers. I even one that gives you the option of which to use. That one also caught my eye.
Thanks again.
 
Posted Wed 01 Dec 04 @ 11:12 pm
dj kiteman, if you went here: http://www.vestax.com
You saw a display of different Vestax equipment. QBert is the DJ holding up a round turntable (QFO) with a two-channel mixer built into it. You’ll enjoy watching him on the dvd.

The dvd is very good because he shows you how to perform about 25 scratches. Each scratch segment loops itself continuously until you forward the dvd to the next scratch segment—he demonstrates one scratch at a time. He starts the dvd off by showing you how to hook up the equipment. After you see all the scratches, he has a “tip and secrets” segement. He then has different combination scratch segments (battles) that are performed by other DJ's to test what you have learned. Some of the humor is lame, but the scratching is excellent.

In closing, I'm glad that I could help you, and I hope you enjoy your quest to become a Turntablist. You are off to an excellent start by purchasing good equipment and a comprehensive scratch dvd.

OO
 
Posted Wed 01 Dec 04 @ 11:53 pm
dj kiteman:

pssl.com has just started a sale on 7 Vestax mixers starting at $199.99. Take a look (scroll down to the Vestax mixers and click on the link):

http://www.pssl.com

OO
 
Posted Thu 02 Dec 04 @ 2:30 am
 
Posted Thu 02 Dec 04 @ 3:40 pm
Is this mixer any good for what I want to do... Reason is that it's about $300.00
For scratching that is... It mentions house, techno, etc..
VESTAX PMC07PROBLK PRO 2-CHANNEL DJ MIXER - BLACK
Item#:PMC-07PRO-BLK or should i go with the
VESTAX SAMURAI PROFESSIONAL DJ SCRATCH MIXER
Item#:PMC-05PRO-D
which is 349.00
--- I just trust your judgement... There is even some cheaper one's... if you think they will do, let me know. Thanks
 
Posted Thu 02 Dec 04 @ 3:41 pm
Let’s do the math:

VESTAX PMC07PROBLK List Price $1,000.00-Sale Price $499.99=$500.01 you save!

VESTAX PMC-06PRO-D List Price $1,009.00–Sale Price $349.99=$749.01 you save!!

VESTAX PMC-05PRO-D List Price $1,199.00-Sale Price $349.99=$849.01 you save!!!

The math selects the VESTAX PMC-05PRO-D (the biggest “suggested” savings). I would select the VESTAX PMC-05PRO-D also. However, you have to make the final decision.

OO

b.t.w. Those mixers are not going to last long at those prices, but still shop around.
 
Posted Thu 02 Dec 04 @ 4:01 pm
Ok.. that one that is for 349.00 will do the basics for house/techno as well?
 
Posted Thu 02 Dec 04 @ 4:09 pm
Which mixer are you referring to? There are two for $349.99; therefore, I have to assume that you are referring to the more expensive mixer—the VESTAX PMC-05PRO-D. Also, did you read the listed features for the VESTAX PMC-05PRO-D? It states the following:

Selectable position input transformer switch can be adjusted 8 different ways to suit the mixing style of most any DJ

Adjust the super smooth crossfader's "curve" to your own unique mixing style-from long running mixes to scratching and cutting styles

What these features mean to you is that it "will do the basics for house/techno as well"

As I stated before, “I can’t tell you what to buy—only you can make that decision.” The “suggested” savings should really help you with making a decision.

Here’s something else you should consider:

http://www.pssl.com/bitemdetail.tpl?eqint_KeyIDdata=21826&UID=2004070212472196

OO
 
Posted Thu 02 Dec 04 @ 4:38 pm
I don't need to get the replacement cartridge yet do I?
 
Posted Thu 02 Dec 04 @ 5:01 pm
No, but you eventually will. Consequently, it's good to know about how much it will cost before buying a mixer. You will eventually have to replace the crossfader. If you were doing mobile DJing, I would recommend that you keep a spare crossfader on hand. Since you are basically using it for home use, you can wait until you need another one.

I recently sold my Roland DJ 2000 mixer because many DJ equipment retailers stop carring the mixer and replacement crossfaders—that was a $1,200 mixer.

OO
 
Posted Thu 02 Dec 04 @ 5:07 pm
thanks.. good idea...
 
Posted Thu 02 Dec 04 @ 5:09 pm
 
Posted Fri 03 Dec 04 @ 5:19 am
Stupid Question, But.

I'm considering buying an mixer, probably the Behringer Dmx100 (or something to those lines!). It's an conventional mixer like most, so how would it'll be able to work on my laptop, because I would think it wouldn't?
 
Posted Thu 14 Apr 05 @ 11:45 am
claxPRO InfinityMember since 2004
The DX1000 is a very cool mixer but the problem is the crossfader (smooth); I prefer a full one.
 
Posted Thu 14 Apr 05 @ 7:55 pm
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