SEDA

News Archive

 

NADJ elect new committee for 2007

Following a succesful AGM & trade show on 29th April 2007, there are a few changes at the National Association of Disk Jockeys.  Here is the new line up:

• Chairman: Phil Cunnington
• Secretary and membership secretary: Mal Thory
• Treasurer: Steve Sansom
• Branch development: Derek Pengelly
• Publicity and marketing: Mark Weller
• Webmaster: Nathan Fleming
• Benefits: Peter Stead
• Merchandising: Dave Finch
• Junior representative: Lewis Finch

New Chairman Phil Cunninton and Derek Pengelly

SEDA wishes the new NADJ committee all the best for the year ahead, and look forward to working closely on common goals in the industry.

 

Pictures from the March 2007 SEDA ShowNight and AGM

2007 - 2008 SEDA committee:

• John Kidd – Chairman
• Paul Forsyth – Vice chairman, membership
• Chris Ansell – events officer
• Mary Eagleton – SEDAmail
• Sue Mayo – Treasurer
• Andy Dykes – SEDAshop
• Neil Brown – PR, secretary
• Johnathan Hutton – constitution
• Ian Forest – Technology officer
• Ian Barber – Health & Safety officer
• Stewart Smith – Special projects
• Brian Mole – web monkey

 

EMI and Apple sign landmark deal to scrap DRM  - Music Week Alert, 2nd April 2007

EMI has become the first major record label to ditch digital rights management and start selling music online in CD quality and without copy protection.

In a deal struck with Apple’s iTunes Music Store, announced in London this lunchtime - at a press conference which included a performance from The Good, The Bad & The Queen - EMI said it is making available "superior quality audio" across its entire digital catalogue.

The DRM-free tracks would be available first through iTunes but will subsequently be rolled out across other retail services.

As EMI became the first major label to embrace Jobs’ vision, Jobs today said, "Selling digital music DRM-free is the right step forward for the music industry. EMI has been a great partner for iTunes and is once again leading the industry as the first major music company to offer its entire digital catalogue DRM-free."

EMI Group CEO Eric Nicoli said the deal represented "a major step in our quest to provide consumers with the best possible digital music experience".

He added, "Our goal is to give consumers the best possible digital music experience. By providing DRM-free downloads, we aim to address the lack of interoperability which is frustrating for many music fans. We believe that offering consumers the opportunity to buy higher quality tracks and listen to them on the device or platform of their choice will boost sales of digital music.

"Apple have been a true pioneer in digital music, and we are delighted that they share our vision of an interoperable market that provides consumers with greater choice, quality, convenience and value for money."

The tracks will be available for 99p in the UK, with tracks at the existing quality available for 79p. Consumers will be able to buy entire superior quality albums at the standard AAC price, and upgrade to superior qualitt tracks for 20p per track.

In a controversial statement issued in February, Apple CEO Steve Jobs said that DRM software “hasn’t worked, and may never work” to halt music piracy.

“If the big four music companies would license Apple their music without the requirement that it be protected with a DRM, we would switch to selling only DRM-free music on our iTunes store,” said Jobs. “Apple will embrace this wholeheartedly.”

For the full story, check out www.musicweek.com

 

Press Release Spring 2007 - 1st April 2007

The press release detailing SEDA's fantastic future expansion plans was just an April fool, we hope you enjoyed it!

Bose announce L1 ver 2

News reaches SEDA towers that the popular and controversial Bose L1 system will be complemented by an L1 model II system. This features a new rectangular base and "T1 ToneMatch" audio engine.

More information on the Bose web site.

 

AVM02
PROFESSIONAL AUDIO/VIDEO MIXER WITH EFFECTS

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR VIDEO OUTPUT.

Designed for mobile DJs and club installations, Numark's AVM02 Audio/Video Mixer with multiple simultaneous effects options is optimized for live performance.

The AVM02 offers separate, replaceable DJ crossfaders for audio and video with linked mode operation and slope control, Chroma Key (blue screen) and Luma Key (black screen) capability for superimposing images. The AVM02 also features numerous joystick–controlled fades and wipe patterns, picture–in–picture capability, and boasts two full video effects sections. With seven stereo inputs and two mic inputs, you'll have all the options you've been looking for at your command.

For more info, visit the Numark website.

 

Numark Cue software gets a controller

Total Control - PROFESSIONAL DJ SOFTWARE CONTROLLER, THE MISSING LINK FOR SOFTWARE DJS.

A tabletop controller for DJs who yearn for the control they left behind when they switched from traditional mixers to the multi–processing power of laptop DJing. This fully class–compliant USB MIDI device is the ultimate for any performing computer DJ.

Total Control's 31 buttons, 20 knobs and 5 faders send MIDI data from the controller to your DJ software of choice, making the inconvenience of mouse or glide–pad software control a thing of the past. No assignment of software parameters for the Total Control is necessary – simply connect the controller to a computer with a USB cable, enable it on the user's computer's "config" menu, and watch the virtual controls respond to Total Control's actions.

The Total Control comes packaged with Numark's Cue LE and Native Instruments' Traktor LE software, with pre–mapped controls and overlay "skins" for both applications.

For more info, and a demo version of the Numark CUE software, visit the Numark website.

 

Allen & Heath launch new DJ products at Namm:

Xone:S2

Allen & Heath has chosen the 2007 NAMM show to unveil the Xone:S2, a new installation DJ mixer for use in clubs and bars, and by professional mobile DJ’s. It is a 19” rack-mounted 4U mixer, available with either linear or rotary VCA channel faders, and features 4 stereo dual-input channels, 2 mono mic/stereo line channels, a USB audio interface, and boasts many features to both enhance the DJ’s performance and aid the installer.

Xone:S2 represents the ideal package for club installers as it has a multitude of features designed to integrate it into a typical PA system. One of the key features is an output limiter system that enables the engineer to preset the maximum output level of the mixer, irrespective of input level.

The main mix outputs are on balanced XLR, and an additional mono output, also on XLR, can be used as a zone feed or can be used to feed a sub-bass stack. A dedicated alarm input mutes all music channels when active and there is also a dedicated alarm message audio input connection. An additional stereo input (RCA) is accessible on the front panel - enabling guest DJ’s to patch in music sources without having to gain access to the rear connectors. Two high quality mono/mic or stereo channels are included, and there is a booth monitor and music ducking facility.

The Xone:S2 is offered with either linear or rotary faders, which are fitted on a removable panel making it is possible for venues to purchase the alternative panel and easily interchange between fader types without having to remove the unit from the rack, as required by the visiting DJ.

The Xone:S2 is equipped with many performance tools for DJ’s. Each of the four main stereo channels is equipped with a flexible 3-band equalizer providing a safe +6dB of boost and total kill for complete frequency isolation. Individual channels can be routed to either side of the high-quality VCA crossfader with adjustable curve control for smooth constant level mixes or virtually instant attack suitable for scratching.

The Xone:S2 is also equipped with the legendary Xone filter system, allowing each of the four main channels to be individually routed to the filter. The filter can also be connected to outboard equipment, or can be patched into the mixer insert point for global filtering of the main mix. Three separate headphone sockets are provided, and a split cue allows the cue signal to be monitored in the left headphone and the main mix in the right.

Uniquely on a mixer of this type, the Xone:S2 is equipped with a USB audio interface enabling easy integration of digital media. The USB interface can be used for playback and recording to or from the Xone:S2 and a computer, or used with appropriate software to act as a hardware effects unit.

Andy Rigby-Jones, chief Xone designer, says, “We’ve learned so much from the development of our entire Xone range in the last few years, and we’ve listened to many club techs. They’ve asked us for more installer tools, like the limiters and duckers, but want the DJ’s to have all the performance tools we’ve always given them. The result of all that is the Xone:S2, and it’s the most feature-laden 19” DJ mixer available.”

The Xone:S2 will be shipping in March 2007, with an approximate SRP of £900 (ex VAT).

 

Xone:2D

Allen & Heath will be introducing the Xone:2D, a follow-up product to the acclaimed Xone:3D mixer/controller. The Xone:2D is the combination of a 4 stereo channel USB soundcard and MIDI controller, which DJ’s can connect to their existing analogue mixer to integrate leading DJ software such as Ableton Live and Traktor DJ Studio, and create a complete digital DJ mixing system.

The high quality USB soundcard can operate in either of two modes – stereo channels for 3 inputs from a PC and 1 return, or 2 channels from a PC and 2 returns. A large array of connections are provided to enable easy integration into any DJ set-up, and the 2D can be directly connected to turntables, CD players or linked to an external mixer. Digital IO (optical and coaxial) is also provided.

The Xone:3D BPM counter with LED display is included, which is capable of detecting a beat in music presented on the stereo BPM input. A MIDI clock generator, which can be set using the illuminated tap tempo button or sync’d to the tempo detected by the BPM counter, is provided, and features the unique MIDI clock nudge facility of the 3D.

The MIDI controller connects via USB to a computer and also has 5-pin DIN MIDI sockets for connection to any MIDI-enabled device, and features 5 60mm linear faders, 8 detented rotary pots, 19 push buttons - 4 of which are illuminated, 5 rotary encoders with "push to switch" function, and a multi-function jog wheel with switched navigation control. All the MIDI controls can be mapped for use as navigation controls for DJ or production software.

Optional attachment brackets to mechanically link the Xone:2D to other mixers in the A&H range, and overlays relating to various software programmes including Ableton Live 6 and Traktor DJ Studio 3, are available.

The Xone:2D will be shipping in March 2007, SRP £499 (ex VAT).

 

 

November SEDA Show Night and quiz

Pending a full report, here are a few snaps of this successful event:

   

 

     

 

 

Cortex HDC-1000 mp3 playback device now on sale

The Cortex HDC-1000 USB compatible digital music controller gives DJs the power to cue, play, manipulate, and even scratch digital files. The "intelligent music database management" system allows users to find any track lightning fast by artist, title, genre, words or phrases; play them with ultra-precise pitch resolution. 

The more advanced HDC-3000 unit is expected to be released early next year:

For more information, visit the Cortex website.

 

Pioneer Demo videos

Pioneer's Rik Parkinson presents some excellent demonstration videos for all to watch.  You can view these at Rik's Youtube pages.

 

Nelly B's Promo Corner

JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE: – ‘My Love’ ***** Jive/Zomba 13th.Nov

This guy has that talent to re invigorate whatever he does in the same way that Kylie and Madonna do well. Robbie could learn a few tricks from Justin. Nuff said if I predict that this will be a number one track. It has it all, and it is definitely very commercial too. Keep it up Jive….

ALL SAINTS: –‘Rock Steady’ ***** Parlophone 6th.Nov

This may be the first single from the new album, but if it really is just a first taster, then it sounds as if the superbitchfight stories are well worth enduring, as the result is worth the effort. Slug it out girls, but keep making that good music. Shaznay had a hand in the writing, and good or bad, this is a track that has lasting qualities about it. I didn’t know they had a leaning towards Caribbean, but what a difference. This gets you singing the chorus before the end of the first play. Could be a future chart topper.

 

For more information, please visit Neil Brown's pages.

 

SEDA Show Night breaks all records

What a GREAT Meeting we had at our new venue, the Village Hotel on 17th September 2006!! A quote from Mr Peter Clayton: “I new it would be good, but seeing so many old friends and meeting some new ones, has made this the best Meeting over my 30 year membership.”

Facts and Figures for the Meeting:

At the End of the Raffle we had 154 people in the room! (this has never been beaten)

11 membership applications - 8 new and 3 rejoins after a while.

And our first Junior member DJ Louise joined SEDA!

SEDA wishes to thank all who attended, including all our business partners, members, and non-members! We look forward to seeing you all again on the 19th November for the next event.

 

Denon announce DN-HD2500 multimedia player

Press Release Details:
Itasca, IL, August 21, 2006 — At the International DJ Expo in Atlantic City, NJ, Denon DJ, a leading manufacturer of reliable, premium-grade DJ equipment, will preview its breakthrough professional multimedia player and controller (Model DN-HD2500), which provides working DJs with a complete system solution that addresses virtually all their needs. The rugged and portable DN-HD2500 is designed for everything from small parties to weddings, club installations, outdoor events or anywhere that professional-quality, reliable operation is required. It joins Denon DJ's full line of high-performance products for working DJs.

Noted Denon DJ Brand Manager Silvio Zeppieri: "DJ equipment has progressed over the past few years, with DJs moving from vinyl to compact disc to laptop computers to a combination of all three technologies. Our DN-HD2500 represents the next step in this product evolution, offering a total all-in-one solution that addresses and actually anticipates the many different needs of working DJs. With built-in hard drive, external memory, CD playback control, catalog back-up, special effects and more, the system is an all-in-one portable hub for professional DJs. "

More information is avialable in this pdf.

 

 

23rd July 2006 SEDAmeeting, Maidstone

Another vibrant, informative and productive meeting!  Thank you to everyone who attended.  Here are some pictures:

 

  

   

 

 

TOP DJ'S GET INVOLVED WITH ALLEN & HEATH

Involved, the organisation that raises money within the electronic dance music industry for UNICEF, is back with another online auction full of innovative, fun offerings. One of the star items in the auction - which includes an impressive array of DJ donated signed CDs, DVDs, vinyl, acetates and equipment - is an Allen & Heath Xone:92 face plate, signed by 101 of the world's leading DJ's.

Names include Paul van Dyk, Paul Oakenfold, Sasha, Richie Hawtin, Tiësto, John Digweed, Sander Kleinenberg, Louie Vega, Ferry Corsten, Chris Liebing, Hernan Cattaneo, Sven Väth, Nic Fanciulli, Chris Fortier, Roni Size, Andy C, Jason Blum (Deepsky), Armin Van Buuren, Miguel Migs, Junkie XL, Layo & Bushwacka!, Steve Lawler, Carl Cox, Seb Fontaine, Rollo (Faithless), Tall Paul, Josh Wink, Eve Falcon, and D:Fuse.

Pete Tong was the 101st DJ to add his signature, and the occasion has been ceremoniously marked in one of Pete's Tongcast 3G broadcasts.

Founded in February 2005 to raise money for the victims of the Asian Tsunami disaster, Involved has in a short time galvanized the electronic dance music industry and clubbers alike with a series of unique events and online auctions. The auctions runs for one month giving fans a chance to get some rare gems and show support for mothers and children worldwide, wherever the need is greatest.

www.involvedevents.com
www.xone.co.uk

 

DJ Nelly B vs Cover Girlz - ‘You’re Beautiful’

Shortvehicle Productions

Release date: TBA

This is Kent DJ/producer and SEDA member DJ Nelly B’s third remix to date. Here’s a guy who has remixed artists like Faithless, and the Gigolo Clown mash-up of the Royal Gigolos.

Following the massive success of the original James Blunt song at the top of our UK charts, The Cover Girlz went to studio early in 2006 and produced a version that was aimed firmly at European dancefloors so that we too could partake of the song. When DJ Nelly B heard the inspired original, he took the lines and samples to remix it into an uplifting version that has a hint of his favourite commercial trance riffs combined with the sensational free-and-easy vocals that together provided the wow-factor. The female lead puts a totally new dimension to the song, and the edits have already been getting massive reactions in the South of England.

The single remixes include:

The Radio Edit, which is self explanatory really. Shorter than the others, and clean cut to be presentable even on the BBC channels.

The Club Mix, gives a better lift to the song, and following the subtle intro, the stabbing synths lift you to that higher plain that previously you needed chemicals for.

The Dirty Club Mix, started life as the power transmission mix, and is the basis for this set. In its entirety, with the crucial lines left intact, there can be no question that this is the mix that will storm the floors of the nation. To the nirvana of several massive peaks that would rock even the biggest of Mediterranean clubs, this has been ‘Tried and Tested’ and reactions from Judge Jules, Graham Gold, Stewart Berkery, John Kidd, Theo Loyla, Brian Mole, Ian Barber and Chris Ansell, all point to this being the uplifting version that we have all been waiting for.

For more information please contact Neil Brown at Shortvehicle Promotions Tel: 01622-764495 or 0208-896 8200

Press: Neil@shortvehicle.co.uk

Radio/TV: Craig.Eurosolution@music-house.co.uk

 

Native Instruments celebrate 10 years at the top

From 3rd July 2006 to 10th September 2006, Native Instruments, publishers of the premium DJ software package Traktor have organized the sizzling NI-VERSARY SUMMER - 10 weeks to mark 10 extraordinarily successful years of Native Instruments.   Profit from price reductions of up to 66% on the special jubilee offers, such as TRAKTOR DJ Studio 3! There are also over 15,000 Euro worth of incredible prizes to be won. Come to the grand NI-VERSARY party in Berlin on 23rd September 2006. Birthday wishes from famous artists and other features can all be found on the Native Instruments website.

TRAKTOR DJ STUDIO 3: €99 (euros)

The professional DJ software is has been reduced in price by 60%! Never before has there been such an opportune moment to enter the world of TRAKTOR and discover the true potential of digital DJing. This offer is available at your local dealer or in the NI Online Shop. A Direct Download version is also available online if you want to get mixing straight away.

All offers are available on the NI-VERSARY homepage: http://www.ni-versary.com or click on the banner at the top of this page.

 

DJ Licensing Working Party secure meeting with the BPI Director

A spokesperson reported today (Friday 30th June 2006) that whilst the LWP is still waiting on MCPS and PPL to respond to Mr Jamieson's statement to the Commons select commitee for culture and media reported here on the BBC website, the LWP has secured a meeting with the BPI Director.  As usual, a full report will be posted following the meeting.

Link to the DJ Licensing Working Party.  

DENON DJ UNVEILS DN-X1500S 32-BIT DJ MIXER

Jun 28, 2006 2:18 PM

Denon DJ announces the successor to the DN-X1500 DJ mixer. The new DN-X1500S is a 4-channel, 12-inch mixer featuring a brushed aluminum top panel and is a complement to the DN-S3500 tabletop CD/MP3 player. This club/mobile style mixer incorporates Denon's original high performance adjustable Flex Fader, a built-in sampler, matrix switching, parametric EQ, onboard effects and a host of other features all powered by the legendary SHARC DSP engine. The new Denon DN-X1500S offers an intuitive control surface that is adaptable to any application and suited to the diverse needs of turntablists and mobile DJs performing in clubs, bars, and an endless array of venues.

Based on Denon's award-winning design and extensive history in the development of advanced DJ technology, the DN-X1500S offers 4 full-featured channels integrated with the "world's first" 8-channel input matrix control. Each channel features smooth-action 45 mm channel faders, Gain control with PFL levels, and 3-band EQ (on/off switchable) with parametric frequency adjustment, as well as a "battle approved" 45 mm multi-channel assignable crossfader with tension adjustment and contour control (named "Flex Fader" by Denon). Main Mic and Aux Mic inputs (one Neutrik combo and one 1/4" TRS) are included with Main and Aux/Sub level control and EQ. On/Off Talk Over and Post switches are also provided.

The DN-X1500S comes with a host of onboard digital effects and features such as an 8 second sampler, 9 effect types, and an Auto/Tap/Manual BPM counter. The sampler utilizes audio from any of 6 mixer sources (Ch1/2/3/4, Mic, Master), and offers edit options including Loop, Reverse, Reverse Loop and Single playback, with overall Pitch Control adjustment of up to +/-100%. Effects include cutting-edge SHARC® DSP processing, along with Delay, Echo1, Echo2, Filter 1, Filter 2, Flanger, Auto Pan, Trans and Key %.

An external stereo send/return Effects Loop is provided and can be used in conjunction with the internal effects giving the DJ an abundance of power across multiple channels. Aux Out options include REC Out (stereo, RCA) and Booth Out (unbalanced, RCA) with Level control, which offers a unique and practical assign switch to monitor any channel and effects beforehand. The Digital (coaxial) output utilizes audiophile quality 24-bit converters for optimum sound quality. The DN-X1500S's Master Out section has separately attenuatable Balanced (stereo, XLR) and Unbalanced (stereo, RCA) outputs with Master Balance VR control and Stereo/Mono select switches on all XLR and RCA jacks. A stereo headphone output with preset selectable EQ features Headphone Cue, Effects Cue, Mono/Split/Stereo, and Cue/PGM/Pan controls, which provides added monitoring options for the DJ.

For more information, go to www.denondj.com.

 

 

SEDA President Theo Loyla celebrates 40 years of DJing

On Sunday 4th June 2006, our president, Theo Loyla held a party to celebrate 40 years of DJing. 

Theo Loyla

Among the many guests, were members of SEDA, and John Kidd (SEDA Chairman) was proud to present Theo with an engraved Shure SM58 microphone kindly donated by HW International.

SEDA Chairman John Kidd presenting an SM58 to Theo Loyla

 

John Kidd says: "As Chairman there are many good and great events to go to and be involved with, but this was my first special event, your time as a DJ has inspired many to follow your steps and have along with the work you have done within SEDA and the industry helped to keep DJing professional and ever changing, it was very good to see a pro at work as well.

As the SEDA Chairman I am honoured to have you as my president and grateful to have you as a friend.

I wish you every success with your future years with the Banana Power Disco"

40 years of the Banana Power Discotheque and DJ Theo Loyla

 

Paul Forsyth, SEDA (South Eastern Discotheque Association) Vice Chairman and SEDA representative on the DJ Licensing Working Party has just been informed of some potentially earth shattering news by fellow LWP member Phil Cunnington

UK music fans can copy own tracks The BPI's chairman wants iTunes to work with non-Apple MP3 players UK music fans no longer face the threat of prosecution for copying their own CDs on to PCs or MP3 players, as long as the songs are only for personal use. Peter Jamieson, chairman of the British Phonographic Industry, said consumers would only be penalised if they made duplicates of songs for other people. Currently anyone transferring music to portable devices breaks copyright laws. The music industry has traditionally turned a blind eye, however, in favour of targeting "professional" pirates. "We believe that we now need to make a clear and public distinction between copying for your own use and copying for dissemination to third parties," said Mr Jamieson, whose organisation represents the UK's record labels. He told the Commons select committee for culture, media and sport that he wanted to "make it unequivocally clear to the consumer that if they copy their CDs for their own private use in order to move the music from format to format, we will not pursue them".

Read the full story on the BBC news page

PCDJ Special Offers

Please remember all SEDA members are entitled to 10% off all software and hardware purchases with PCDJ by calling 01482 319700 and quoting your SEDA membership number.  Discounts do apply to special offers also so some great savings to be had!

Check out the latest special offers here

 

21st May 2006 SEDA meeting

Pending a full report, here are a few snaps taken by our members of the event:

The Deltec speakers featured by Keith Hutchins are available from Keith (07767 693220) at a very special rate for SEDA members. The CX1 is rated at 250 watts per cabinet, and the BX16F is rated at 600 watts per cabinet.

Keith tells us:
"The speakers on the night were all filtered so I was running everything off one amplifier with the EQ turned off. The CX1 only handle the top end with the BX16F doing the rest. All speakers have two speakons, and three places to fix standard top hats or fixings. They all come with Deltecs standard excellent build quality and after sales service."

For more information on the Bose PAS range, please contact Andrew Rigler, Sales Support Specialist for Bose UK on 0870 71 4500.

SEDA wishes to thank everyone who attended, and all who helped put on this event.  We hope you had a great time!

EssexDJ to launch new website.

Our good frieds at EssexDJ are having a website makeover in April 2006, so please call them on 01206 762999 during this time for any requirements.

 

Greetings from sunny MALTA.

"Hello all at SEDA, I thought it about time I renewed my thanks to you for the continued receipt of your SEDA Mail that regularly drops into my post box, here at JORDAN mansions in down town St Julians, Malta. I am kept in touch with your progress, events and activities on a regular basis and thanks to the kindness of Mary and your committee can feel that I have still got a few connections with my old life in the mobile Disco world and the years I spent , along with Margaret, running the TVDJA and my show, Midnite City Sounds.

We were blessed by a recent visit of your infamous Theo Loyla, Janet and his mother who were on a short stay in the Islands. They descended upon this little outpost in the med on the 22nd January and we made a visit to see them at their hotel and managed to down a few local beers whilst chewing over the fat of past good times. Surprisingly enough we sat on the pavement tabled area in front of the hotel in warm sunshine, albeit a little windy as is the norm in January, only moving indoors as the sun moved round and put us in shadow. The visit was all to short and maybe next time they visit we will be able to all go out for a meal one evening and continue the conversations we were pleased to have with them. Like Theo, I go back quite away, you do when you are as old as me, and I was sickened to note that Theo looked younger than ever and still SLIM! Not fair is it? I can't really grumble as all I do is laze around in the sun most of the year, I know it's alright for some!

So this is short and sweet as space in your newsletter may be at a premium, but I felt I should just again say "Thanks" for your kindness in keeping me up to date with the matters within SEDA and I will continue to look for the next edition eagerly as always. We send our sincere best wishes for the coming summer months and may work be plentiful and of good quality gigs. Feel free to e-mail me, we are always glad to receive them and we will keep in touch.

Till next time, all the best and bye for now.

Mike & Margaret Jordan.
Mjordan@vol.net.mt "

 

Numark unveil more new products in Frakfurt

Numark HDMIX

Numark D2 Director

Numark iDJ2

Numark iCDX

For more information, visit the Numark website

 

DJ Licensing Working Party Formed

MDA, NADJ, DJ Associates and SEDA have joined forces to adress DJ licensing issues.  We ask that every DJ should visit the DJ Licensing Working Party website, join the forum, make their views known, and take part in the discussion.

 

New from Numark

VJ01 Tabletop DVD/CD/MP3 Player with Tilt Screen

Designed for DJs wanting to incorporate visuals into their entertainment mix, Numark’s VJ01 is a compact, tabletop media player that supports a wealth of video and audio formats. Featuring a 5.6-inch LCD TFT tilt screen display, pitch control capability plus a slider control for both DVDs and CDs, soft touch rubber transport controls, support for all standard DVD features, non-seamless looping for repeating video clips, PAL and NTSC compatibility, and an arsenal of effects such as cue, loop, zoom, angle, and slow motion, Numark’s VJ01 is a comprehensive media player with a go anywhere attitude.

For more info, visit the Numark website

 

Pioneer update flagship CD turntables with mp3 capability at last

 

"The next generation MP3 compatible CD Deck CDJ-1000MK3:

With the best quality audio complemented by intuitive precision vinyl emulation, the CDJ-1000MK2 is established as the world’s standard CD deck: performance that’s evolving with the CDJ-1000MK3. The new deck provides full MP3 compatibility, a HOT LOOP feature, ‘JOG feeling adjust’ and improved presentation of track and WAVE data. With refinements to the CDJ-800MK2 also headlined by MP3, the new decks round out a Pioneer CD/DVD DJ range that’s fully digital and MP3-ready."

For more information, visit the Pioneer website

 

Pioneer announce new DJM-800 and DJM-400 mixers

See the Pioneer press release for the DJM800

See the Pioneer press release for the DJM400

 

Slappa CD cases are here!

A new range of tough DJ friendly CD wallets and cases has arrived in the UK at your local retailer.

The top of the range can hold 600 CDs with the insert in a seperate sleeve.  All the seams are stitched on these.  Brian Mole and Chris Ansell discovered this product at the Winter Music Conference in Miami in March 2006.  If you are interested in a group buy in April 2006, please contact webmaster@seda.org.uk - these are only £70 each.

 

Formula sound re-release classic mixer

Formula Sound have announced the anniversary edition of a classic 80's mixer, the PM-80R.  The mixer features 8 channels, and is one of the highest quality mixers around.

"The new PM-80R caused quite a stir when shown at the recent PLASA 05 exhibition. A limited edition of this mixer will be produced to celebrate the introduction of the original PM-80 25 years ago. The revised version will maintain the simple-to-use principles of the original mixer but will incorporate up-to-date-technology. Many visitors to the stand felt a real sense of nostalgia when they remembered the many clubs they had worked in where the original PM-80s were installed. Of course, lots of PM-80s are still in use today and we were suprised at how many djs have more than one. Installers had only happy memories of trouble free installations with the PM-80."

Formula Sound website

 

BBC discover Digital DJs 'unaware of copy law'

13th January 2006 sees news items emerging all over the BBC reporting Digital DJs are still unwittingly breaking the law by playing unlicensed digital copies of their music.  This has been a really controversial issue discussed heavily at many SEDA meetings and all over the DJ forums since PPL announced the Digital DJ licence in Summer 2005 apparently without substantial consultation.  This issue is being hotly contested by most DJ communities and associations, so watch this space!

Some of the many resources:

BBC news item on Radio 1

Have your say on BBC forum

DJ Associates Digital DJ campaign news

DJ's united forum topic

Article on the Stage from SEDA member Robbie Earl

 

 

Civil Partnerships become legal in the UK

Today (Monday 5th December 2005) is a historic day for the gay & lesbian communities, it is the first day that single sex couples can register to marry in a legal ceremony called a 'Civil Partnership'. After 15 days, the first Civil Partnerships will take place on 21st December 2005 (there are some 500+ couples on a waiting list for Brighton alone).   One of SEDA's West Sussex members Brian Mole was an exhibitor at Brighton's Gay Wedding Show on Sunday 4th December 2005 where 1300+ people came though the door in search of suppliers.

 

Pioneer announce new DJS PC software

'The DJS is a PC-based software solution for the growing number of DJs who prefer mp3 files to vinyl, CD or DVD. DJS is designed for both mobile and home DJs to enable full-scale DJ mixing on a PC. The software offers the same playability and functionality as Pioneer’s Pro DJ products, using a PC interface instead of the familiar hardware; CDJ turntables and DJM mixer.'

More information about Pioneer SVJ-DL01 DJ Software is available from the Pioneer press release page.

 

TRAKTOR DJ Studio 3 featuring 4 decks and countless innovations set for release in November

Native Instruments proudly presents TRAKTOR DJ Studio 3 - the next generation of professional DJ software! The largest technological leap forward since TRAKTOR’s introduction, version 3 brings with it numerous innovations for DJing at clubs and parties. Some of the most thrilling new features are the expansion from 2 to 4 playback decks and an emulation of the new, much sought-after Allen & Heath Xone:92™ 4-channel club mixer. Five professional, tempo-synced effects and an even easier operation will see you mixing hypnotic DJ sets. The integrated access to the Beatport Online Music Store, the world's leading internet dance music specialist, means you'll always have just the right track to hand. The new version is set to rock the clubs as of November. 

For more information, see the Traktor page.

 

Allen & Heath launches first universal DJ controller at PLASA 2005

A significant leap forward has been taken in DJ technology with the launch of Allen & Heath's pioneering mixer/controller, the Xone:3D. The unique design is the amalgamation of a high performance DJ mixer, a top spec multi-channel USB soundcard, a comprehensive MIDI control surface, offering a performance workstation that integrates all the tools of the modern DJ.

The mixer section is derived from the industry-standard Xone:92 and Xone:62 designs, featuring 4 multi-input stereo channels, 3-band total kill EQ, a comprehensive cue system, 2 stereo returns, headphone monitor with mix/cue control, and high quality dual rail faders. 3D contains the Xone range's trademark VCF filters, offering low-pass, band-pass, and high-pass selection; resonance and frequency filters; plus there is an assignable LFO with depth control. The master section has 2 FX sends with pre/post fader selection, and there is a VCA crossfader.

The USB soundcard has eight channels, arranged in stereo pairs, which can operate in two modes - 6 channels from a PC and 2 returns, or 4 channels from a PC and 4 returns. Using individual professional audio standard 24bit stereo converters with an audio sampling rate of 48kHz, the card's design guarantees the best possible sound quality from laptops and PCs. The soundcard can be fed from the main mix, FX1, or direct from the channels, and features a SPDIF optical and coaxial interface. Also, the USB connection sends and receives both audio and MIDI data to and from the PC, and can be used to update firmware and set mixer configuration data.

There are dedicated MIDI control sections either side of the mixer, with a total of 8 dedicated control faders, 16 rotary controls with centre detent, 10 encoders, 50 switches, and 2 custom jog wheels with micro switches, which can be mapped for use as navigation controls for DJ software such as Ableton Live and Traktor. Xone:3D can send a total of 105 different MIDI control messages from the dedicated control sections, audio channel faders and crossfader, to the 3D's MIDI out socket and via the USB interface to the PC.

An automatic beat detector synchronises the MIDI clock to the main mix, the FX2 mix buss, or can be disabled to allow the beat to be manually tapped-in. The 3D also has connections for a footswitch controller and a gameport socket for a standard analogue joystick that can also be used as a second MIDI output.

The progressive DJ's, Chris Liebing and Richie Hawtin, have been consultants and beta testers during development of the Xone:3D.

"Technology is leading us into a very exciting and new form of DJ'ing," comments Chris Liebing. "Allen & Heath's Xone:3D is a huge step forward into that future. More fun for the DJ, more fun for the crowd!"

The Xone:3D will be shipping later in the year, pricing TBA.

www.xone.co.uk
+44 (0)1326 372070
sales@allen-heath.com

 

Essex DJ open day - 21st August 2005:

It's true, if you’re a Dreamer, diamonds are forever. Well that’s it, Sunday the 21st SEDA went to Essex DJ for a day trip.

A good turnout of members were treated to a large array of lighting, all set-up and working in a fantastic purpose built demo room, a run through of everything from the cheapest standalone plug and play lighting, up to the I-rock range and moving heads.  Something for everyone!

Also on display, loads of CD players, Mixers, Amps, Stands, Console Stands, Trussing and much more.   If it was not equipment that you wanted to look at, there was a large selection of DMC, Music factory and Pro Disc available to listen to and buy at special prices.  If this was not enough, a swim through and Bits and Bobs corner for lamps, connectors, fluids, tape, ties, bags, cases, racks - you get the idea. 

To top this all off, a great BBQ and many cups of tea, or a glasses of beer, made the day.  Even the rain stayed away.  The end saw some of our members leaving with some new kit at fantastic prices and others leaving to check the bank balance, and to make plans of what to get.

I would like to thank those of you that turned out and welcome the new members that signed up on the day, but especially I would like to thank Dave and Dave, Fay and Hayley and of course DJ Steve ‘the chef’ Kowalski who kept us well feed.

Remember if you are looking for a bit of kit, advice or are lost in Colchester and want a cuppa, Dave and Dave are always just round the corner, so give them a call.

 

 

Denon's new products for PLASA

Hot on the heels of the new DN-D4500 dual cd/mp3 player, D&M Professional have news of 2 new 19" rack mount mixers - the DN-X500 and the DN-X900, the new DN-HP1000 DJ headphones, and the new DN-S3500 single CD player.

 

Numark announce the iDJ

"The iDJ is a basic 2-channel mixer that enables mobile DJs and iPod enthusiasts to seamlessly integrate their portable music libraries with other music and sound reinforcement systems—transforming the iPod from a personal music player into a source playback device. With its compact form factor, comprehensive feature set, and a blue on white aesthetic appeal that blends perfectly with the iPod, the iDJ makes the music more accessible."

Unfortunately, it would appear that one of the most basic features a DJ requires is missing - the pitch adjust!  Let's hope Numark listen to this when the MK2 gets designed, as the concept is cool and clever.

It is also anticipated that Numark's long awaited HDCD1 Dual CD/MP3 Player will make appearances in DJ setups soon. The HDCD1 is a rack-mountable dual CD player with built-in hard drive, capable of storing an entire DJ collection.

17th July 2005 - SEDA Meeting. Grangemoor Hotel, St. Michaels Road, Maidstone.

This month, SEDA had an exclusive!  Gary Job from Denon demonstrated the recently announced dual cd/mp3 player from Denon - the DN-D4500. 

We were very pleased to also welcome Richard from Mastermix, Roland West of Spin Disco Roadshow, and Essex DJ from Colchester. SEDA members DJ Paul Velocity, Chris Ansell, Stewart Berkery, and Brian Mole were on hand with their equipment as a taster for forthcoming mixing workshops.  Traditionally, the July meeting is poorly attended, but the good news is we had another record breaking attendance with many new members joining on the night, so thank you to all who made the journey worthwhile.  You can read the full report from Neil Brown our press liaison officer here, and you can also see the presentation on mixing which you would have had if the projector had not failed here!

D&M Professional announce the new DN-D4500 Dual CD/MP3player:

Denon have overhauled their popular, high-value DN-D4000 professional dual CD/MP3 rack-mount player, introducing a number of new features.  Known as the DN-D4500, the new playback device features vastly-extended MP3 functionality – including hot starts - which will come as great news for the mobile and club DJ requiring a simple workhorse with high reliability.

 

Email received from Computer DJ following their visit on 15th May 2005:

Dear SEDA,

Just a quick note reference our visit to you guys last month – apologies for the delay but things have been hectic, with business booming since we visited – thank you very much!  I must admit as this was our first meet with SEDA we didn’t know what to expect however I have to say you have a great bunch of members who all seem willing to help each other with bookings, equipment, help, and advice.  What struck me was how positive the night was!! – a ‘refreshing change’ to coin a phrase!
 
We will be looking to get to you guys on a more regular basis and feel the industry needs to work closely with the people that matter –the DJ’s! - and let them get hands on with the products.  SEDA provides the perfect opportunity and outlet to do so – and I thank all members who were in attendance.  Looking forward to seeing you guys in the future!
 
Best Regards,
 
Jonpaul Wright
Operations Manager
Computer DJ Ltd

15th May 2005 - SEDA Meeting. Grangemoor Hotel, St. Michaels Road, Maidstone

• "You all are all credited with the success and brilliance seen at the meeting and we can now take Seda forward to 2006 with confidence that we have Members behind us. Well Done All!!"

• "The SEDA meeting of the century"

• "I honestly thought last night's meeting was inspirational.  Good support from the membership, and two good retailers to boot"

This was some of the feedback received for last Sundays meeting. The SEDA team wishes to thank everyone for coming to meet us, and a special thanks to those who traveled long distances to make this happen including all at Computer DJ.  We also were specially pleased to welcome Mark Buss from Martin Professional and look forward to seeing the new range of DJ lighting products develop in the next few months.  

Read the press release.