Kris.Griffiths
Hello all.
I'm a bit confused about Timecode DJ'ing to use my Numark NDX400'S to control VDJ on my laptop, like a MIDI controller.
So i've seen you can buy a Native Instruments Komplete 6 (also called Audio DJ6), plug your CDJs into that, which decodes the audio signal and once plugged into the laptop, you can use VDJ like you would with a USB deck.
My question is:
What functions do you lose with this setup?
Using the CDJs as the controller, can you change the speed of the track with the slider? can you auto loop 16 bars for example? can you select tracks on VDJ using the CDJ?
or is it simply you can press play, pause and scratch?
i'm currently debating whether to fork out on this NI Komplete box thing or just get a better pair of USB decks.
Thanks.
I'm a bit confused about Timecode DJ'ing to use my Numark NDX400'S to control VDJ on my laptop, like a MIDI controller.
So i've seen you can buy a Native Instruments Komplete 6 (also called Audio DJ6), plug your CDJs into that, which decodes the audio signal and once plugged into the laptop, you can use VDJ like you would with a USB deck.
My question is:
What functions do you lose with this setup?
Using the CDJs as the controller, can you change the speed of the track with the slider? can you auto loop 16 bars for example? can you select tracks on VDJ using the CDJ?
or is it simply you can press play, pause and scratch?
i'm currently debating whether to fork out on this NI Komplete box thing or just get a better pair of USB decks.
Thanks.
geposted Tue 19 Jun 12 @ 4:04 am
groovindj
You've hit the nail on the head - well done!
Timecode is an outdated system (in my opinion). It was developed in the early years of DJ software because there were very few controllers then, and the ones that did exist were 19" rack mount with small jog wheels.
The more turntablist style DJs wanted to get in on the action, to be able to use DJ software (with all the advantages) so a system was developed which used vinyl and turntables but allowed (basic) control of DJ software.
It alowed new technology (DJ software) to be used with old technology (turntables).
These days, when we have thousands of different controllers of all shapes and sizes, including ones with big motorised platters, the need for timecode has reduced dramatically. We now have the new technology (controllers) to go with the software.
As you touched on, timecode does not allow you full control of every function in the software, only basic control of the track.
Timecode is an outdated system (in my opinion). It was developed in the early years of DJ software because there were very few controllers then, and the ones that did exist were 19" rack mount with small jog wheels.
The more turntablist style DJs wanted to get in on the action, to be able to use DJ software (with all the advantages) so a system was developed which used vinyl and turntables but allowed (basic) control of DJ software.
It alowed new technology (DJ software) to be used with old technology (turntables).
These days, when we have thousands of different controllers of all shapes and sizes, including ones with big motorised platters, the need for timecode has reduced dramatically. We now have the new technology (controllers) to go with the software.
As you touched on, timecode does not allow you full control of every function in the software, only basic control of the track.
geposted Tue 19 Jun 12 @ 5:09 am
DJ KYLE THOM
Hi Kris,
As an Vinyl DJ who moved to CDs then timecode with Serato in 2007 - then midi controllers in 2010 i have to disagree with groovindj.
Timecode is still the closest you'll get to using the original thing and original sound like scratching. After selling my CDJ 1000's in 2010 to move to midi controllers i've tried out the Traktor S4, American Audio VMS4, Pioneer ERGO, EKS Otus & Denon HD4500 and NONE have even come close enough for me.
So much so that i've just invested back into timecode with the Traktor Audio A6, CDJ 850s and some Novation Dicers to control my hot cues and loops. I'll be using this with Traktor Scratch Pro for usual gigs and the usb HID compatible mode when doing karaoke gigs with Virtual DJ.
HID and Midi is fantastic and if you're doing anything other than scratching then definately move onto it. I actually found the Pioneer ERGO the best out of the lot and as sturdy as it's more expensive DDJ-T1/S1 counterparts. For scratching though - it's certainly not a sound thats close enough yet and won't be for several years yet.
As an Vinyl DJ who moved to CDs then timecode with Serato in 2007 - then midi controllers in 2010 i have to disagree with groovindj.
Timecode is still the closest you'll get to using the original thing and original sound like scratching. After selling my CDJ 1000's in 2010 to move to midi controllers i've tried out the Traktor S4, American Audio VMS4, Pioneer ERGO, EKS Otus & Denon HD4500 and NONE have even come close enough for me.
So much so that i've just invested back into timecode with the Traktor Audio A6, CDJ 850s and some Novation Dicers to control my hot cues and loops. I'll be using this with Traktor Scratch Pro for usual gigs and the usb HID compatible mode when doing karaoke gigs with Virtual DJ.
HID and Midi is fantastic and if you're doing anything other than scratching then definately move onto it. I actually found the Pioneer ERGO the best out of the lot and as sturdy as it's more expensive DDJ-T1/S1 counterparts. For scratching though - it's certainly not a sound thats close enough yet and won't be for several years yet.
geposted Tue 19 Jun 12 @ 4:03 pm
djsherz
The Numark CDX was a FANTASTIC machine to run timecode with - a cd player with a full size motorised platter, even real vinyl on it. The quality of the scratch sound (when using CDs rather than mp3s on a CDROM) was every bit as good as that of a Pioneer CDJ. Shame the CD player mechanisms had a tendency to wear out prematurely resulting in a less than gig-reliable machine. I have a pair in my home studio, and if you shut your eyes you'd swear you were using a set of SLs...
If you're looking for midi control as well though, consider Denon's latest offerings with hybrid mode - this gives you timecode operated platters for maximum low latency performance and high resolution, while still keeping the midi alive for all the buttons and controls of the player. Best of both worlds.
If you're looking for midi control as well though, consider Denon's latest offerings with hybrid mode - this gives you timecode operated platters for maximum low latency performance and high resolution, while still keeping the midi alive for all the buttons and controls of the player. Best of both worlds.
geposted Tue 19 Jun 12 @ 4:45 pm
MAGAGAR80
djsherz wrote :
If you're looking for midi control as well though, consider Denon's latest offerings with hybrid mode - this gives you timecode operated platters for maximum low latency performance and high resolution, while still keeping the midi alive for all the buttons and controls of the player. Best of both worlds.
If you're looking for midi control as well though, consider Denon's latest offerings with hybrid mode - this gives you timecode operated platters for maximum low latency performance and high resolution, while still keeping the midi alive for all the buttons and controls of the player. Best of both worlds.
Yeah Denon Hybrid MIDI is very cool. If you want accurate control you must do time code, if your a scratch guy this is important. I'm not a scratch guy so its MIDI all the way for me.
If your looking for a cheap time code solution take a look at M-Audio's Torq Conectiv, I just bought one brand new at pssl.com for $50.00!! Best of all I can use it with Virtual DJ pro.
geposted Wed 20 Jun 12 @ 4:41 pm
frab51
can someone please help me set up my denon MC 3900's with using virtual DJ step by step.... i tried all the setting vdj gave me using it in hybrid midi mode but it stil is not working.... HELP!!!!
geposted Thu 20 Sep 12 @ 11:39 am