DJ effects & samplers

Digital performance sampler and sequencer

Review: The Elektron Octatrack DPS-1 sampler is designed to revolutionise the concept of sampling.

The Elektron Octatrack DPS1 features a new improved version of the actual Elektron sequencer and a new audio engine. An intuitive user interface assists the user in the recording of source sound material, while the internal technology transforms loops into a format that the manufacturer describes as completely elastic.

The static nature of samples would appear to be a thing of the past as the Octatrack makes sure loops remain in sync no matter whether they are pitch shifted or if the tempo of the sequencer is changed. Single sounds can also be moulded into any shape or form.

The Elektron Octatrack features compact flash card compatibility, ensuring samples are constantly available and a USB port for convenient transfer between computer and Octatrack. The sampler also features an optical fader that can be assigned to any of the unit's control parameters, adding a wealth of live control possibilities.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXdelltcO98

Review: Korg's KAOSS technology has been embraced by DJs, musicians and producers alike. No other interface is as intuitive, immediate or just plain fun to use. By simply touching, tapping or sliding your finger over the touchpad, the all-new KP3 allows you to control multiple effects parameters and manipulate samples in real time. On stage or in the studio, these gestures and moves can become powerful and expressive performance elements. More than a processor, the KP3 is a complete instrument allowing you to manage, recall, and play back samples; sample on the fly; and add dynamic processing to any audio signal or to the samples themselves.

This latest KAOSS incarnation has been completely overhauled to enhance your creativity, with significant advances in every area. New effects algorithms, synth sounds derived from our RADIAS engine, bigger and better sampling plus computer connectivity all point to the fact that the KP3 is an entirely new KAOSS instrument. A new pad lighting system places 64 individual LEDs in an eight by eight grid under the pad, providing visual cues as to the current program, held position, etc. it can even scroll a custom message across the pad.

The KP3 comes equipped with 128 great-sounding effect programs Sure, the traditional essential effects are there delays, flangers, etc., and they sound amazing. But using newly developed algorithms, the KP3 also provides fresh, exciting effects such as a grain shifter, decimator, a vintage analog style filter with a tone-bending drive circuit, and expanded EQs that are controlled directly from the pad. And moving beyond effects, there are also drum grooves and even RADIAS-inspired vocoder and synthesizer sounds that can be played free-form on the X/Y pad.

As you move your finger across the touchpad and find that sweet spot, pressing the Hold button will lock the settings, so you can take your hand away to do other things. The LED grid on the touchpad will show the held location, so you can pick up where you left off without any jumps. Better yet, Pad Motion can memorize and repeat a fluid or complex gesture played on the pad. Once again, the new pad lighting system enhancements can actually display the Pad Motion pattern as it plays.

A separate FX Depth knob sets the overall balance between the original signal and the effect, so you can add just the right amount of processing. The eight Program Memory buttons allow you to store all of this information Program Number, Hold button On/Off status (and coordinates), Pad Motion, and the FX depth setting to a single button for instant access during performance.

Another new innovation in the KP3 is called FX Release. Basically, FX Release adds an adjustable delay tail when you remove your finger from the pad. In addition to being a creative performance tool, FX Release also prevents the abrupt dropping out of the effect as you transition from one setting to another, providing a smoother and more musical performance. The FX Release delay effect is automatically set to the current tempo whether manual, MIDI, auto BPM or Tap Tempo and the amount of the FX Release and can be set and saved individually with each program.

Four Sample Bank buttons on the front panel allow you to create, play and save both looped and one-shot samples on the fly. All samples are recorded using high resolution 24-bit converters, and are stored in16bit/48 kHz format. Samples can be saved on a Secure Digital (SD) card or transferred to computer via USB. With both mic and line inputs, the KP3 allows you to sample from a wide variety of sources.

The KP3's sampling system thinks and speaks in the language of music, hiding incredible technology below the surface. When creating loop samples, for example, sample length is set in terms of beats, not seconds. You can generally set the sample length up to 16 beats long (extremely slow tempos capture fewer beats). When sampling is finished, the sample will immediately start playing in sync with the sample source. As the sample plays you can adjust the start time of the sample to fine-tune it to the original tempo, or to dial-in time shifted playback.

Time-Slicing chops a sample into separate parts. You can use the Program Memory buttons to turn these individual slices on or off in real time, creating new rhythmic patterns from the original sample as part of your performance. Sampling and effects are totally integrated in the KP3, so you can sample through the effects, and even resample the entire output to create powerful, multi element samples.

Tempo is an integral element of the KP3. Sampling times are set in terms of tempo, and many effects are also tempo-based. All tempo-related functions are accurate to .1 (one-tenth) of a BPM for more precise matching to external devices.

Review: Create a combination of Kaoss effects and simultaneously control up to four effects using your fingertip with the Korg Kaoss Pad Quad dynamic effects processor.
The Korg Kaoss Pad Quad dynamic effects processor provides simultaneous control of four effects which can be sync'ed to the beat of your music. Any audio source can be processed; an MP3 player, a mixer, an instrument, even vocals via the 1/4-inch mic input.
The Korg Kaoss Pad Quad processor features a brilliant and colourful LED touchpad illumination, an X-Y touchpad to change the effect's parameters, and brilliant LEDs that light up in a variety of colours. The illumination changes depending on the effects, the BPM setting, and on your movements while performing. The DJ booth or stage will be brilliantly illuminated, visually boosting the excitement level.
Each of the four effect modules on the Korg Kaoss Pad Quad processor, Looper, Modulation, Filter, and Delay / Reverb, contain five options plus a null or off position for a total of 1,295 effects combinations. Effects can be chosen directly from the front panel, a more intuitive process than on previous Korg Kaoss Pad processor models. Each of the four effect modules features a Freeze button that memorizes the position at which you're touching the touchpad, causing that effect to be held after you release your finger. Touch the touchpad again while Freeze is enabled, only the non-frozen effects will be controlled.
In addition to more traditional effects, the Korg Kaoss Pad Quad dynamic effects processor contains new types of effects. A Multi-Mode Looper with three types of looping, the standard Looper, the Reverse Looper which plays the looped phrase backward, and the Loop Slicer which divides the phrase and lets you loop-play only a specific portion. Switch between the different looper types by sliding your finger up and down the touchpad as the loop plays, producing radical new beats. A Vinyl Break turntable effect that lets you slide your finger up and down on the touchpad to simulate the turntable scratch sounds. Ducking Comp then creates the distinctive ducking compressor effects. Stay in Sync Proprietary Auto BPM engine automatically detects the tempo / BPM of the song that's playing. This function allows BPM effects such as delay to remain in sync with the song. Tap Tempo is also provided.

Review: Announcing the Korg KAOSSILATOR PRO: a supercharged version of the palm-sized KAOSSILATOR, reborn as a powerful track-making tool and loaded with live performance power. As a trailblazer among the instrumental gadgets that allowed anyone to easily create melodies and phrases, the KAOSSILATOR gained a strong and dedicated user base, even among those without any performing experience. Today, the KAOSSILATOR continues to be enormously popular. Retaining these revolutionary features while adding a wide variety of new ones as well is the KAOSSILATOR PRO.

With 200 sound programs, a new Electribe-inspired gate arpeggiator, and four loop recording banks that can even record external audio sources, the KAOSSILATOR PRO is packed with features that make it ideal for both live performance and premium productions. In addition, USB connectivity with your computer and SD card memory storage allow the KAOSSILATOR PRO to be used not just for improvised performances, but also as a superbly intuitive, track-making music production tool.

Review: Groove on the move with this DJ effects processor. Since it first appeared, the Kaoss Pad series effects processor has been enormously popular with artists around the world for its intuitive touch-pad interface and its revolutionary effect programs. Now, the series is joined by its smallest member, the Korg DJ effects processor called the miniKP.

While providing the same interface in which multiple parameters of the effect program are controlled by a single fingertip, the miniKP effects processor brings the advantages of battery operation and mobility, making it an ideal choice for DJ club performances, home studio applications, as well as outdoor live events or for use with a portable audio player. Wherever you are, the mini-KP brings new possibilities to any music scene.

The miniKP is a lightweight effects processor, yet offers tons of features like auto-BPM and Tap Tempo functionality, FX hold, FX depth selection, FX Release and more, all derived from its big brother, the KP3.

The miniKP's size and power make it a perfect multi-task effects processor. Keep it near your studio and patch it into the effects loop of a guitar amplifier, directly between a synth and mixer or some other creative position. No matter what you connect it to, from a mixer to an MP3 player or directly to your television set, the Korg miniKP provides the effects you need to get the job done, or simply have some fun.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSzc48WuNXk

Ultimative analogue phaser

Review: The Mode Machines KRP-1 is a 100% true discrete analogue phaser with photo-couplers which design is based on the legendary Compact Phasing A from Gerd Schulte Audio Electronik. This was used in the 70s & 80s by many famous people like Klaus Schulze, Kraftwerk and Tangerine Dream on their records.

The very special sound of the original phaser, which was lovingly named Krautrock phaser or Schulze phaser, is unforgettable until today and very sought-after amongst vintage fans. The first run of the KRP-1 was made in 1999 where Mode Machines presented it at the NAMM show in Los Angeles. Since then it has been redesigned and improved to reach the demands to create an authentic vintage sound of the 70s. Some new ideas to improve the features have been implemented, so this is not only a sound-wise 1:1 copy of the original, but even has many more practical features and modifications.

The Mode Machines KRP-1 generates from 1 mono audio signal very unique stereo effects where the amplitude can be controlled optionally by using 2 externs CV-pedals. There are 4 effect parameters with big knobs: Phasing, Oscillator Period, Feedback and Modulation. By using the heavy-duty bypass push button you can switch the effect on and off. The road-ready metal chassis and vintage style knobs generate a classic vintage feeling and there are even optional wooden side panels. All connections are on the rear plate by using 6.3mm jacks. The power supply is external and supplied with the machine.

Everybody who enjoys the sound of the 70s from Kraftwerk & Co. will love the phaser in its final production stage.

Wooden panels edition of Krautrock analogue phaser

Review: The Mode Machines WP-KRP-1 is a 100% true discrete analogue phaser with photo-couplers which design is based on the legendary Compact Phasing A from Gerd Schulte Audio Electronik. This was used in the 70s & 80s by many famous people like Klaus Schulze, Kraftwerk and Tangerine Dream on their records.

The very special sound of the original phaser, which was lovingly named Krautrock phaser or Schulze phaser, is unforgettable even today and very sought-after amongst vintage fans. The first run of the KRP-1 was made in 1999 where Mode Machines presented it at the NAMM show in Los Angeles. Since then it has been redesigned and improved to reach the demands to create an authentic vintage sound of the 70s. Some new ideas to improve the features have been implemented, so this is not only a sound-wise 1:1 copy of the original, but even has many more practical features and modifications.

The Mode Machines WP-KRP-1 generates from 1 mono audio signal very unique stereo effects where the amplitude can be controlled optionally by using 2 externs CV-pedals. There are 4 effect parameters with big knobs: Phasing, Oscillator Period, Feedback and Modulation. By using the heavy-duty bypass push button you can switch the effect on and off. The road-ready metal chassis and vintage style knobs generate a classic vintage feeling and there are even optional wooden side panels. All connections are on the rear plate by using 6.3mm jacks. The power supply is external and supplied with the machine.

Everybody who enjoys the sound of the 70s from Kraftwerk & Co. will love the phaser in its final production stage.

B-STOCK: there are a few very minor scuffs on the unit but product is new and in perfect working order

Review: *** B-STOCK: there are a few very minor scuffs on the unit but product is new and in perfect working order ***

The Mode Machines WP-KRP-1 is a 100% true discrete analogue phaser with photo-couplers which design is based on the legendary Compact Phasing A from Gerd Schulte Audio Electronik. This was used in the 70s & 80s by many famous people like Klaus Schulze, Kraftwerk and Tangerine Dream on their records.

The very special sound of the original phaser, which was lovingly named Krautrock phaser or Schulze phaser, is unforgettable even today and very sought-after amongst vintage fans. The first run of the KRP-1 was made in 1999 where Mode Machines presented it at the NAMM show in Los Angeles. Since then it has been redesigned and improved to reach the demands to create an authentic vintage sound of the 70s. Some new ideas to improve the features have been implemented, so this is not only a sound-wise 1:1 copy of the original, but even has many more practical features and modifications.

The Mode Machines WP-KRP-1 generates from 1 mono audio signal very unique stereo effects where the amplitude can be controlled optionally by using 2 externs CV-pedals. There are 4 effect parameters with big knobs: Phasing, Oscillator Period, Feedback and Modulation. By using the heavy-duty bypass push button you can switch the effect on and off. The road-ready metal chassis and vintage style knobs generate a classic vintage feeling and there are even optional wooden side panels. All connections are on the rear plate by using 6.3mm jacks. The power supply is external and supplied with the machine.

Everybody who enjoys the sound of the 70s from Kraftwerk & Co. will love the phaser in its final production stage.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsjIDMlf8-M

3-in-1 system comprising editing software, hardware and VST and AU plug-ins

Review: The Pioneer RMX1000 remix station takes a totally new direction to effectors and samplers, the RMX-1000 is a 3-in-1 system comprising editing software, innovative performance hardware and VST and AU plug-ins.

Technological innovation is in Pioneer's DNA. So only Pioneer 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 Pioneer's 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. The hardware offers 3 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.

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. 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.

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.

Designed by Pioneer exclusively for the RMX-1000, the remixbox software 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.

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.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qv5Mz4PHZj4

Rack mount analog filter

Review: This is the effects toy you really wish you had, whether you are after the dirtier or cleaner sounding effects, this is the tool.

The Action Filter III features an analogue high- and low-pass-filter with a separate control for cut-off frequency and resonance. Combining these results in 2 modes: Notch for eliminating and BandPass for isolating a certain frequency range. The bypass has a trigger function for cutting in and out the filter effect.

Why wouldn't you have one, or even more than one?

Desktop spring reverb

Review: Today's digital effects and plug-ins can create almost perfect room simulations. However, when it comes to characteristic and charismatic reverb, analogue effect-processors are yet to beat. The reverberating sound of a spring is so lively and unique that its sound is almost impossible to recreate in the digital domain. In addition to this, Retroverb Lancet is not just a spring reverberation system - it is an analogue multi-effects-processor. It offers overdrive, filtering, VCA, envelope and LFO to manipulate the spring sound and create different sounds like auto-wah, tremolo, distortion, delay, gater and of course reverb.

The typical spring reverb sound is generated by a Belton/Accutronics type 4 spring tank with 3 individual springs. It can be placed pre or post the VCF/VCA section and equalized by the Tone parameter.

The Crash function generates the popular thunder effect that occurs when kicking an amplifier with spring tank. You don't have to kick Retroverb Lancet you simply can achieve this effect by pressing the Crash button. It also can be triggered by a Gate voltage.

The multimode filter works as lowpass or highpass with a slope of 24 dB per octave or as bandpass with 12 dB per octave. It is followed by a voltage controlled amplifier. The filter and amplifier can be modulated individually by different sources.

The Retroverb Lancet offers 3 internal modulation sources:

Envelope follower: the envelope follower converts the amplitude characteristic of the audio input signal into a control voltage.
Envelope generator: the envelope generator can be triggered by the input signal itself, a second audio signal or a gate voltage. Depending on the trigger source it works as Attack-Decay or as Attack-Sustain-Release envelope.
LFO: the LFO offers saw up and saw down, square, sine as well as sample&hold. Additionally it can use the envelope generators settings as waveform. It can oscillate freely or reset by different trigger sources.

The Retroverb Lancet also offers a CV/Pedal input which can be feed by external control voltages or can be used with expression pedals.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=3aL7LrtsWsE

1U spring reverb unit using a spring tank from Accutronics, good for any kind of audio signal

Review: The VSR-3 is a spring reverb device with focus on simplicity and excellent sound.

More than 70 years ago spring reverbs were used for bringing the large reverberated cathedral sounds to the homes of Hammond organ players. Meanwhile the sound became classic and you will find spring reverb devices in most studios around the world and even today it is kinda standard in guitar amplifiers.

The imperfectness is what makes the VSR-3 perfect for any kind of audio signal: organs, synthesizers, acoustic and electric guitars, vocals, (electronic) drums, whatever you like, it always adds that clashing and resonant but always musically and warm reverb sound.

Like the ReTubeVerb, the VSR-3 uses a spring tank made by specialist Accutronics. The reverb signal can be refined by a well-adjusted tone controller and seamlessly added to the unaffected original signal. Simple but effective.

Thanks to the well-shielded, internal switching power supply the VSR-3 works smoothly on any place in the world. In its 1U rack-housing it not even takes much physical space but will create much acoustic space.