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Pioneer today announced the Pioneer XDJ-R1, a DJ controller that can play music from USB, built-in CD players or external line/phono sources, and which has a host of mobile DJ-friendly features including mic in and booth and XLR outputs. It can also operate with a laptop as a “normal” Midi/audio interface controller, and ships with Virtual DJ LE. But its unique twist is the way it wirelessly adds controllerist-friendly functions via iPhone, iPad or iPod touch and a brand-new app, Remotebox.
REMOTE (PHONE) On a phone, the VDJ Remote focusses on deck information and controls from the main interface so that VirtualDJ can be monitored and controlled while away from the main computer. Anything that is done in the remote will directly reflect on the software interface on the computer as well. Corporate staff Member since 2010 VIRTUALDJ REMOTE V.8 Mix with VirtualDJ directly from your iOS/Android phone or tablet! Whether you want to use your phone/tablet as a virtual scratch turntable, or just want to step away from the booth for a moment but still continue to monitor the mix from your mobile device, or even want to mix the whole gig wirelessly from your while the computer plugged. It features almost everything a DJ can need, from beat mixing, effects, song suggestions, samplers, video mixing, etc.MAXIMUM VERSATILITY: The interface and functionalities of the VirtualDJ Remote.
Read on for a full summary, our thoughts, a talkthrough video, how to get a demo of the software, pricing, and a link to Pioneer’s official info.
Pioneer XDJ-R1: Digital DJ Tips Talkthrough
The Pioneer XDJ-R1 looks similar to the previous model in the XDJ range, the XDJ-Aero. But whereas the XDJ-Aero can stream music wirelessly from any device running Rekordbox, the XDJ-R1 drops that capability, instead adding the ability to remote control the unit from any iPad, iPhone or iPod touch. A two-channel controller, it features a built-in sampler, three cue-points buttons, and a rubberised rack at its rear onto which you can perch your iDevice (definitely iPhone; not sure about iPad, although it appears that’s what they’ve done in the demo video). Your iOS device then connects to the XDJ-R1 wirelessly (there’s no wired option at all). The XDJ-R1 has its own built-in WiFi network, and connection to the iDevice and the Remotebox app happens via this.
While traditional “remote control” is indeed possible (the mixer, decks, FX, library etc can all be managed from the app anywhere within reach of the XDJ-R1’s wireless network), one of the main uses of an iDevice with the XDJ-R1 is as a large screen while you’re stood right in front of it. Because while the XDJ-R1 works fine on its own, with an iDevice plugged in you are given extra options that add a decidedly controllerist twist to what would otherwise be a pretty traditional all-in-one mobile DJ-style unit.
What you actually see on the Remotebox screen adjusts in portrait and landscape modes to make most use of the screen space available, and you can choose which area to focus on, too. For instance, there are X/Y pads to control the Beat and Color FX, both of which are drip-downs from Pioneer’s more expensive pro DJ gear; there’s a “needle drop” for scrubbing through tracks; it offers better control over beat-matched loops; and most crucially, you get clear control over your library. This is just as well, taking into account the disappointingly limited LED screens provided for each deck. From the iDevice, you can easily access all of your playlists and folders, drag tunes onto decks, and search using the on-screen keyboard.
It’s important to note that no musical information crosses the network between iDevice and XDJ-R1; the music is on your USB drive, and needs to be organised using Pioneer’s Rekordbox software. Although this software is also available for the iPad and iPhone, you’ll still need a laptop because that’s how you’ll get the Rekordbox-organised music library onto a USB drive to plug in to your XDJ-R1. Also, all the hard work (ie the FX processing etc) goes on inside the hardware; again, the iDevice is only controlling it.
Of course, this is a true standalone unit, and you could equally simply DJ using CDs or even two line/phono sources added at the back, all without pairing up any iDevice at all. Thus it can be called a true “all-in-one” – whatever style of DJing you want to do, it can cope. there’s actually quite a lot to this controller, and Pioneer’s talkthrough video is very good, so we recommend you watch it (it’s below) to fully understand the feature set.
First thoughts
The XDJ-R1 follows Pioneer’s philosophy of not needing an actual computer involved in the playback of the music itself; in this instance, the iDevice is simply interacting with the Reckordbox-organised music library that’s “physically” attached to it via the USB drive. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that: In fact I think it’s rather neat, and it also provides a seamless “upgrade path” for DJs wanting to start at a (relative) entry level with an all-in-one controller, then “graduate” to Pioneer’s pro gear in DJ booths, while not having to relearn as much as those making the same leap from full-on DJ software-based solutions like Traktor and Serato.
It’s lovely to see the iPad’s screen used how I think it makes a lot of sense – as a great library browser and to control extra features of the hardware. However (and for me it’s a really big “but”), Pioneer seems to have missed a glaring chance to have two big, chunky parallel waveforms right there in front of the DJ – surely the most obvious use of all that screen real estate? The addition of this I think would have laptop DJs in their droves seriously considering this solution, as it packs a lot of the advantages of digital DJing without many of the perceived issues (mainly, having to lug a laptop around with you).
As it is, though, this is still an appealing and innovative controller. Dropping the (to me rather gimmicky) wireless music streaming features of the XDJ-Aero for a promising v1 of an app that can be used as a good library browser, to control extra features, and as an all-out remote control for keeping control of the music when temporarily away from the XDJ-R1 (mobile guys will think of triggering jingles and countdowns, for instance) is a smart move.
Pioneer’s addition of pro ins and outs and CD players has made it a viable and capable mobile DJ solution, and I can see mobile guys who want to explore some of the techniques usually employed by club or laptop DJs finding the XDJ-R1 appealing. If they’d just added waveforms, we’d be seriously thinking now whether Pioneer had just landed a significant blow on software DJing as a whole. As it is, the XDJ-R1 is definitely another step in that direction, but will probably be received by laptop DJs as a “not quite there yet”.
Price: US$1099 / £899 / €999
Availability: June 2013 Waves bundle free download windows.
• Demo the Remotebox app for yourself – it’s in the App Store from today
• Read all the official words on the Pioneer website
Official video talkthrough
What do you think of the XDJ-R1? Is this the ultimate mobile DJ solution? Is Pioneer going down an interesting path here with Rekordbox / iOS remote control? Please share your thoughts in the comments.
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In recent years, DJ apps have transformed from being a novelty to practical music mixing propositions. Although they can never replace the full functionality of turntables and consoles, they are a remarkable resource for house parties or other small events. Packed full of features, they’ll keep you grooving on a budget! Here are some of the best DJ apps for iPhone and iPad.
1. edjing Mix
“edjing Mix” turns your iPhone into a fantastic DJ set up with more than 20 fx and features. It lets you remix with ease and efficiency. As you can quickly access your playlists from iTunes, Deezer (requires a premium account), and SoundCloud, your task of mixing and matching becomes a lot easy.
More than 50 million tracks are just a few clicks away from cranking up your party time. The queue systems allow you to prepare your song just the way you want.
Compatibility: iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch
Price: Free (In-app Purchases start from $1.99)
2. djay
Algoriddim’s djay consists of all the features that can efficiently turn your iPad into a good DJ setup. You can access up to 25 tracks from your own music library. It has a user-friendly interface and features very low-latency converge, providing you a more professional feel and effect.
Both learners and experts can use this app to dabble with songs, producing high-quality results. Some of the stand-out features of the app include beat matching & automatic tempo, a shuffle playlist of your songs, and looping.
This DJ app is compatible with all main audio formats such as .wav, .aac, .mp3, and .aiff.
Compatibility: iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch
Price: Free (In-app Purchases start from $4.99)
3. Pacemaker
Pacemaker DJ is a simple-looking app loaded with many powerful features for Spotify users. You can conveniently pick tracks from your private playlist and load it onto your party playlist for mixing without redoing playlists.
It has flat interface elements and pastels colors in place of realistic-looking turntables. You have all the creative scope to mix songs with options to the scratch, either turntable, sync beats of multiple songs, and also crossfade using an on-screen slider.
The app provides numerous effects that you can include from controls located in the center of the turntables.
Compatibility: iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch
Price: Free (In-app Purchases start from $1.99)
4. Music Maker JAM
Here’s another app that makes music creation easy, with thousands of studio-quality loops, beats, and samples that you can use to start mixing tracks. You can even instantly share your creations with a global audience.
Further, it allows you to record vocals and remix tracks by shaking your device. For even more control, you can adjust tempo and harmonies, edit song parts, and add fabulous real-time effects. Best of all, it’s super easy to use and ensures hours of fun.
Compatibility: iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch
Price: Free (In-app Purchases start from $0.99)
5. DJ Mixer Studio
DJ Mixer Studio seems to be a pretty good pack. The impressive UI and efficient editing tools make it a worthy bet for your DJ time.
The app is fully integrated with iCloud music and iTunes music library. Therefore, you can instantly access all of your tracks and playlists for quick editing.
Features like crossfade effects and several sound effects offer you more control. You can mix and match tracks, tweak the tempo and pitch to create impressive tracks that can bring everyone to the dance floor!
Compatibility: iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch
Price: Free
6. U beats
U Beats is a simple app for iPhone and iPad to mix your favorite tracks right on your palms. It allows you to add drums, rolls, and other effects to your existing tracks. Not just that, you can also create a melody right from scratch.
The app comes with pre-built sound effects, different instruments, and many other features for beginners as well as advanced DJ. The free version of the app is an excellent place to start with, and if you like it, then you can subscribe from different available plans.
Compatibility: iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch
Price: Free (In-app Purchases start from $3.99)
7. DJ Mix Pads 2
Virtual Dj Remote App Free
Ever wanted to make and remix music effortlessly? “DJ Mix Pads 2” is just the right foil for you to enliven your DJ time with the needed fun and flair. With this DJ app, you can make and remix music with optimum ease.
There is a lot of different type of sounds and beats to bring more spice. The professional sound effects add more value to your music and improve its quality. You can also add a custom sound to make your music stand out.
Compatibility: iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch
Price: Free (In-app Purchases start from $1.99)
8. Cross DJ
Cross DJ has all the necessary features of a DJ system, such as a mixer with EQs in the center and two decks on the side. The Cross DJ Free offers you two effects, flanger and echo with others available through in-app purchases.
The looping function of the app is user-friendly, and the cue points are accurate. Since the Cross DJ has teamed up with Soundcloud, you can search for your songs stored in your Soundcloud account and use them for DJing.
The interface may seem underhanded, but this is quite a competent app that goes well that can deliver big time.
Compatibility: iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch
Price: Free (In-app Purchases start from $0.99)
9. Deej
The fashionably named “deej” is a must-have DJ app for beginners. The app features an interactive tutorial to help greenhorns learn the art of editing music naturally.
With stunning loops & effects, it enriches your music. There is also a bit crush effect adorn your track. You can use three-band equalizers to control your music entirely.
Additionally, you will also be able to record your sessions and upload them to SoundCloud, MixCloud, and Dropbox.
Compatibility: iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch
Price: $5.99
Virtual Dj 7 Download
10. DJ Player Professional
DJ Player distinguishes itself by supporting a wide array of devices and USB interfaces. This app exceeds your expectations by giving you many added tools and letting you create numerous effects on your device.
While the complete list of features can produce a complicated working area, people who familiarize themselves with the controls can bring out inspiring music. As soon as you sync any sound source, the app functions quickly to load music into your mixing booth, allowing you to mix it to your pleasure.
All the options in the app are visibly labeled and user-friendly. It comes with powerful features like multiple output modes, MIDI connectivity, Timecode vinyl control, and more.
Compatibility: iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch
Price: Free (DJ Player Pro for 5 months – $2.99)
Summing Up
So what are you waiting for? Go drop some beats! And let us know down below which DJ app you think is best for your iPhone.
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Jignesh Padhiyar is the co-founder of iGeeksBlog.com who has a keen eye for news, rumors and all the unusual stuff that happens around Apple products. During his tight schedule, Jignesh finds some moments of respite to share side-splitting contents on social media.
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