Why Electro-Voice's EKX System is Super Important for Wedding / Ballroom DJ's

On our Thursday entrance in to the NAMM show, one of the first booths we bolted for was Electro-Voice. For the last four years, EV has released one great family of speakers after another. They're the only guys in town with a demo room that allows us a real opportunity to see what their speakers can do.

We're constantly impressed with EV and the EKX family of speakers is certainly no exception. Our video of the series was up as soon as we got back to the hotel room.

As someone that's trying to get information out as fast as possible, and the less than optimal internet/cell services on the floor (ok, we'll say it...the Anaheim Convention Center has garbage for cell phone service), It's easy to falter in convey certain things. 

Our closer look at the EKX awoke us to Cardiod Technology within the EKX subs. This feature essentially pushes all power of the sub forward, rather than all around the sub. Get yourself in front of one of the EKX subs ASAP to hear it...and here's why. 

As you circle the sub, the front sounds like it should. A dark, beautiful low end rumbles the floor and gets your ear drums intrigued. Circle to the back, and the sound drops by 35db. In case you're wondering, 35db is A LOT. 

This poses huge potential for wedding DJ's. If you've ever been in a venue with multiple rooms, you've more than likely encountered the venue manager or another DJ asking you to turn your subs down. With these, your sub audio only goes where you point the sub. This isn't just awesome technology. This is a freaking contract saver. We've heard countless nightmare stories of guys with their subs rumbling entire rooms and losing contracts or getting complaints. Sit back, relax...and check these bad boys out. 

Electro-Voice hears you. You need to hear Electro-Voice.

Blizzard Lighting Can't Get Any Cooler...Can it? Meet the HotStik 5 COBII

If NASA did lighting, they'd be called Blizzard. With outside the box thinking, innovative shell designs and a belief that more color rules, we're diggin what these guys can do.

RGB is cool. RGBA is really cool. RGBAW is just intense. The new HotStik 5 COB II kicks out 25 watts of intensity with each of the 12 5-in-1 COB LEDs. With strobes, dimming, and chase modes, we're pretty much sold on this piece of eye candy.

Of course it's not just about the light but overall construction that matters. Blizzard Lighting nails it every time. Each light is a work of art even when the lights are out. Plus, the PowerCON connectors are a secret obsession that we have with Blizzard, locking in your power cables so you're not climbing ladders mid show. Thank you NASA...err...Blizzard.

JBL Revives the SRX Series and It's Beautiful

Some of you might remember JBL's SRX series from about 2 years ago or so. While it was nice, it definitely needed a bit of a makeover by the time it left the market. Well that makeover has come, and it's sweet. Really sweet.

The SRX800 series features the SRX812P, the SRX815P, the three-way SRX835P, single sub and an...wait for it...DUAL 18" POWERED SUBWOOFER!

The smallest in the series, the SRX812P rocks a killer 135db, and it only gets better from there. The dual sub...yeah, that's a monstrous 141db of max SPL output.

Each speaker packs a 2000 watt punch, and drives that sound across 90 degrees horizontally and 50 degrees vertically.


From JBL:
JBL Professional has made a name for itself by producing great sounding, long lasting portable PA systems. With the introduction of the SRX800 line of powered portable PA loudspeakers, JBL has set the standard for what a fully professional powered PA system should be. SRX800 breaks new ground, bringing together JBL’s premium transducers and enclosures, Crown’s Proprietary Front-End DriveCore Technology, user-configurable DSP, and full HiQnet Network control compatible with a variety of platforms. Integrating industry-leading levels of sound quality, power, control, and durability, SRX800 is a perfect all in one solution wherever high performance, comprehensive control, and pristine sound are required. Each component in the SRX800 Series was purposefully designed and thought through to deliver a perfectly tuned system that is powerful, easy to use, and rugged enough for the most demanding applications.

MAP on these starts at $1299, but they're WELL worth it.

Denon DJ Lovers Rejoice! The Company is Alive and Well

Over the last 2 years, Denon has been a tough sell. With the company's fading popularity, complicated controllers, and gear that just didn't have that unique "thing" that DJs are out to find, the once powerhouse manufacturer had a questionable future...until now. 

Denon DJ is featuring 3 new products this year designed solely for DJs. We'll address the other two another time, but what's caught our eye, and apparently the eye of everyone in the DJ world is the Serato Box. 

It's a pretty straightforward Serato box, with a single USB and inputs for a line and phono. What's awesome is

1) The Size: This bad boy is about 6 inches wide and 1 inch tall. Compact, sleek. Thank you, technology.

2) The Price: Serato hardware can be pricy. Heck, any DJ software's hardward interface can be pricy....this guy? $300 buckos. You're welcome. 

Should be coming out sometime in the spring or early summer, so if you're itching to get into Serato hardware and can wait a FEW more months, this might just be your saving grace.

Totem Mode is On the Chauvet Intimidator Spot 255 IRC and It's Awesome

The Intimidator series has been a continuously popular item through the years. Each release brings enhanced features, technological advances, and new interest. The world of moving heads has become an affordable and visually appealing one thanks to Chauvet DJ. The Intimidator Spot 255 IRC was announced prior to NAMM. But sometimes, you need to listen a little bit before a product truly shines.

Sure, she's got a bright 60 watt LED. Yeah, it's got a full color LCD screen. But the words "Totem Mode" were put in our ear, and when explained, it makes your smile just a little bit bigger.

Totem Mode allows you to set the pan and tilt limits of the light. We've all been there with auto mode or show mode, watching the light pan and tilt it's full axis, throwing light where we don't remotely need it (like in the DJ's EYES). Totem Mode kills that issue off completely. No more throwing light behind you or away from the crowd. Keep the show where it belongs with this simple yet powerful feature. Well played, Chauvet.

Don't Like the Alto Stealth? It Just Got Better with the Stealth Pro

Last year, Alto Professional released the Stealth Wireless Audio Transmitter and receiver kit for powered speakers. It's been met with both good and bad reaction, and while we love what it can do with line of sight transmission, there's been those complaints about poor transmission/reception, especially if you're beyond 150 feet or more.

Today, Alto announced the Alto Stealth Pro...and the advancement is huge.

Alto's Stealth Pro looks sleeker, offers an aluminum housing, and offers RF and AF metering. 

That's all well and good, but obviously, most of us are after better reception, and that's exactly where the Pro version steps in. The Alto Stealth Pro uses dual channel transmission, creating diversity reception. If you don't know what diversity is in this case....the same signal is being sent to the receiver on two different frequencies. The best signal wins, which means less chance of loss of signal...not only will this improve the quality of the throw, but it may VERY well improve the distance...see ya soon. 

Rane TTM57SL Lovers...You are Not Forgotten...the TTM57MkII

I remember buying my TTM57SL three days after it was available in stores. To know that the 64, 62, and 61 mixers were to be the followers for Serato DJ was almost heartbreaking. I felt like what was once a staple, a standard, was no more. Until today...

We heard about some new gear from Rane early on, but there were some tight lips as to what it was. No way under no circumstances was ANYONE spilling their guts as to what was going on, and I've gotta say, as a lover of Rane, that can drive you NUTS.

As I made my way to booth, the speculation seemed to be false...all this talk about a new DJ controller from Rane just wasn't true. But what was true was that the TTM57SL had come back to life. Here is the TTM57mkII

In her own stylish way, she reminds me of my old friend. In her modern way she is SOOOO much more. The new controls work perfectly for Serato DJ, including controls for FX, libraries and looping. 

The DUAL USB PORT (YEAHHH!!) lets me share the love with my friends that don't know her awesomeness.

The new color-coordinated pads make her sexier than ever, with what appears to be much easier access to cues and sampls. 

As we understand it the TTM57MkII is still a ways out from release, with new firmware updates coming almost daily to the product designers and developers, so no pricing just yet...We're gonna guess $1299? Maybe?

Welcome back TTM57...it's good to see you again. 

Numark Announces the NS7iii

When the NS7ii was originally released, people balked at the heavier price tag. Knowing Numark and their power to be innovative, we pushed through, believing that this controller could be quite powerful...and we were right. Today, you'll find comparisons across the web, stacking the NS7ii against some of the biggest controllers in the markt.

Now comes the NS7iii...

In the wake of LCD screens popping up all over the place, Numark has given the NS7iii a heavy upgrade with not 1, not 2 but THREE LCD screens. 

What's even better? We hear that you can add on the screens to your NS7ii. Well done!

Pioneer HDJ-2000 Headphones Get a Reload

Let's face it, we all have to get an upgrade once in a while. Whether it's the car we drive or the place we live, it's nice to be able to improve upon something we've relied on for so long.

The HDJ-2000 is one of the top-selling headphone lines in the DJ industry, and has been for six years. While the "if it ain't broke don't fix it" rule is one to live by, this isn't about fixing something, it's about making it better.

The HDJ-2000MK2 is a fresh take on the industry standard. DJs want more every year...and they want something better. So hear it is.

Better Comfort...check

Better Audio...check

Better Sound Isolation...check

When something awesome becomes awesome-er, it's kind of a big deal. The HDJ-2000 was already a big deal, so we're gonna welcome the MK2 with open ears. Street Price? $349

A little more from Pioneer DJ...

1. Sound quality optimised for pro-DJ monitoring 

The HDJ-2000MK2s are designed for dance music, with a 38 μm-thick diaphragm, 50 mm drivers, and precision-rolled voice coil to ensure outstanding resolution and high-fidelity frequency response of 5 Hz to 30,000 Hz. Distortion is eliminated even at top volumes thanks to a robust build and the capacity for 3,500 mW of input. 

2. Improved sound isolation for perfect clarity in loud environments

Innovative low-volume air chambers provide maximum insulation, reducing external noise in the mid to low frequencies (300 Hz to 1,600 Hz) by 7 dB compared to the original HDJ-2000s. This and the ear pads’ damper and airtight stitching ensure clarity for ease-of-monitoring without needing to crank up the volume in loud clubs.

3. Lightweight and comfortable for prolonged use

The HDJ-2000MK2s have been carefully designed to maximise DJs’ comfort. A thinner, lightweight magnesium alloy is used on the headband and hanger to reduce pressure on the DJ’s head. Ear pads made with soft synthetic leather and low-rebound urethane memory foam ensure a snug fit for ultimate comfort and sound quality. 

4. Comes with hard carry case and handy accessories 

The HDJ-2000MK2s come with a custom-designed hard zip up carry case for added protection on the road. The case’s internal pockets are the perfect place to store the two provided cables (one 1.6 m straight and one 1.2 m curled cord) and 6.3 mm jack.

5. Rotatable housing with auto-return supports multiple monitoring styles

Each ear cup swivels by 90 degrees to support various styles of monitoring, and the auto-return feature makes them ideal for DJs who prefer on-the-shoulder monitoring. One-ear monitoring is a breeze with the headphones’ flexible headband. And a lock mechanism holds a DJ’s preferred style to stop unwanted movement during use.

6. Solid build to withstand the rigours of professional use

An L-type mini-jack stops the headphones getting knocked or disconnected during performance, even in cramped booths. At the headphone end, a detachable mini-XLR connector means cables can easily be removed for transit or replaced if damaged. Plus, the foldable structure makes the headphones easy to transport between gigs.

Check out more Pioneer headphones at http://www.planetdj.com/k--Pioneer+HDJ

American DJ Expands the Cannon Series

Anyone who knows American DJ has a profound love for the COB Cannon series. (http://www.planetdj.com/k--American+DJ+Cannon). On Monday, ADJ announced the new COB Cannon Wash. If you're unfamiliar with the Cannons, you might be thinking it's just another wash, but we're thinking very differently.

The 150-watt Quad Color LED has got to be awesome. It boasts a whopping 80-degree beam angle, with the ability to adjust to 40 or 50 degrees.

If you didn't already love the COB Cannons, now is a great time to learn about them. We'll be heading to American DJ headquarters prior to the show, with an opportunity to check this thing out first hand. 

Put your tray tables in their upright and locked position and all phones in to airplane mo...

Reloop Straightens Out the RP-8000

The RP-7000 and the RP-8000 from Reloop were modest movers last year. In an industry that is consumed by DJ controllers, or held to a standard turntable that isn't manufactured anymore, it's difficult to break in to the industry with a new turntable. We've seen turntables come and go, with the most movement from lower priced turntables that don't stand up to the SL-1200.

Reloop released the RP-7000 and RP-8000 turntables last year, and even with a high price point of $600 and $800 respectively, the unit was a mover, and received quite a bit of positive feedback from the DJ community. Now, Reloop has taken the RP-8000 one step further.

While the NAMM floor is still very much in setup mode, the rumors are flying out the door, and some random snapped photos are as well. While we can't get in, we love poking our heads in and catching things that fly out...like this....

Here's an RP-8000, same great MIDI control on a separate chassis, same great adjustable torque,...new tonearm? Yep, that's an RP-8000 with a straight tonearm, possibly a big deal for the scratch DJs. Will it make heads turn like it did when these beauties came out? Probably not, but we're diggin it so far...more to come.

Chauvet Pushes Forward with the SlimBeam Quad IRC

We know that lighting companies are loaded with creative geniuses. Uplighting is a great effect for venues, and it's an easy upsell for any DJ company to the bride-to-be. It's incredibly simple too...well, at least it used to be. 

Ladies and gentleman, I present to you the SlimBeam Quad IRC from Chauvet Lighting. A versatile fixture designed to create unique beam effects, allowing you to uplight with multiple colors from a single unit.

If you're either a Chauvet Fan or a fan of the effect, this may be your lucky weekend. We'll find out at NAMM.

Pioneer Announces XDJ-RX DJ Controller with LCD Screen

Last year at this time, Pioneer revealed the DDJ-SZ, the goliath to the david of the DDJ-SX and SX2. Numark and Traktor have both hopped on the LCD screen bandwagon, which is so far appearing to be REALLY convenient for the laptop DJ. Today, Pioneer announced its next big thing,... the XDJ-RX

Some of you might recall the XDJ-R1 from nearly two years ago...some of you might not. Maybe I was looking for a CD Player when I heard about the XDJ-RX...but I digress, because this thing is still pretty rad.

The XDJ-RX features a 7-Inch LCD screen in the middle of the unit, displaying all of the pertinent information from your favorite DJ software.

You'll also get plenty of playback options, even without the CD Players. The XDJ-RX is capable of playing media from your iPhone, Android, USB storage, and of course, your DJ software.

So does this put you past the DDJ-SX2? Is it too soon on the heels of the release of one of the best selling DJ Controllers that Pioneer has ever made? Are you digging into your piggy bank for the extra $200-300 that this one will run you? Expected street price... $1199.

She's sleek, she's pretty, she's compatible with Traktor Pro 2. Best of all right now is that Pioneer has made one of their best product videos ever. Watching this thing gets us all worked up for the NAMM show.

Post by Planet DJ Pro Audio, DJ Equipment, Lighting.

Could the 7" Turntable Be Coming To a Retailer Near You?

If you're a DJ, you were watching NAMM like a hawk. From lighting to pro audio, NAMM is a great way to get a first look at what's to come in the year ahead. But if you're a turntablist, your jaw dropped when Biz Markie's Technics SL-700 Turntables made their way across the internet. Pictures of these beauties became viral, like photos of the rarely spotted bigfoot or UFO sightings. Just in case your memory is foggy, here's a bit of a reminder...

With the recent release of Pioneer's PLX-1000 turntable, and the fight to bring back the SL-1200, could the thing that dreams are made of become a reality? Our sources point to, "I dunno." But there's a lot of buzz and wishful thinking on the forums across the web, with no confirmations or denials from any turntable manufacturer out there. Our fingers are crossed. Big time. 

White is So Last Year. Pioneer DJ Announces the DDJ-SZ in Gold

White controllers always look nice. The chrome look was actually pretty epic as well. In the midst of celebrating 20 years of Pioneer DJ, you knew they were looking to make their mark. This time, it's a mark covered in Gold.

Just a few hours ago, Pioneer announced the Pioneer DDJ-SZ-N , a gold colored DDJ-SZ. Available in March, and with a limited release of 1,000 units, I'd expect it to move just as quickly as the platinum CDJ set up did.While opinions on the color are mixed, what makes these even more appealing is that each one has gold plated RCA plugs AND limited edition numberings on each one.

Post by Planet DJ Pro Audio, DJ Equipment, Lighting.

No word on pricing yet, but it's nice to look at!

ElectroVoice Warns of Impact

Been to the ElectroVoice website lately? Don't worry, we have. We love diggin for gold when everyone is so hush hush in the week before NAMM. This week, the site boasts a big red banner  as soon as you hit the page with the words "Prepare for Impact" ...clicking the banner does nothing, and then you get quickly pushed on to the rest of the banners on their homepage...

Now comes our speculation...what is EV up to? The maker of the so famous ZLX series and the beautiful-sounding ETX series has to be at it again. RnD at EV is pretty intense, so I think they're trying to find every balance between amazing sound and amazing price. Could this be a replacement for the LiveX system? That wouldn't make a TON of sense given the success of the line. The ZLX is barely 2 years old and is one of their best-selling lines, so we at Planet DJ hope that doesn't go away...

Our guesses are few and far between at this point, but as always with EV, we hope it's some new woofers for our ear drums... stay tuned.