1st. Etronik from Pico Rivera CA
2006 DMC US Supremacy Champion
2008 DMC US Team co-Champion (The Angry Exs)
2010 DMC West Coast Champion
2010 DMC US Champion!

Congratulations to Etronik the first DJ in the US to represent the World in all 3 DMC World Battle Categories!!

2nd. Steel from Lakewood NJ
Brick Bandits Crew
2010 DMC San Antonio TX Champion

3rd. GrandMaster Supreme from the Center of the Universe
New Music Seminar Champion
Former DJ for Lauren Hill
2009 Roc Raida’s Gong DJ Battle NYC Champion
2009 DMC US Supremacy Champion
2010 East Coast Runner Up

Judges included: Roli Rho (5th Platoon & former DMC US Finalist), Precision (2007 DMC US Champion), DJ Slyce (1997 & 2008 DMC US Champion), Billy Jam (Hip Hop Slam), Mista-B (4OneFunk & 2008 DMC West Coast Champion)

Host: Kool DJ Red Alert

Showcases by:
DMC World Champion: DJ Shiftee – presented by Native Instruments
2008 DMC World Vice Champion: DJ Slyce
Mysterio: The Hitchcock of Hip Hop

Partyrocking by Bronx Hip Hop Legends: DJs Rockin’ Rob and DJ Jazzy Jay

Etronik With Prizes

Photo credit: Hip Hop’s 1st Photographer Joe Conzo www.JoeConzo.com

Etronik

Photo credit: Hip Hop’s 1st Photographer Joe Conzo www.JoeConzo.com

Steel

Photo credit: Hip Hop’s 1st Photographer Joe Conzo www.JoeConzo.com

Grandmaster Supreme

Photo credit: Hip Hop’s 1st Photographer Joe Conzo www.JoeConzo.com

GrandMaster Supreme

Photo credit: Hip Hop’s 1st Photographer Joe Conzo www.JoeConzo.com

Steel

Photo Credit: Ken Fujimatsu

Etronik

Photo credit: Christie Z-Pabon: DMC USA

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Yellow On Black

Purple on Navy

White on Green

Phonetic Aesthetic Charcoal

Phonetic Aesthetic Purple

DJ Vajra sporting Phonetic Aesthetic Charcoal at NAMM

BONSAI in CHARCOAL

Vestax VCI-300

The additional control with jog wheel controllers as opposed to smaller DJ software controllers is apparent through the VCI-100 which has smaller jog wheels which act as the platters. Mobility remains a strength, as the unit is small, portable and built to rugged specifications. What makes it unique is the integration with Serato’s ITCH software, designed in direct conjunction with Vestax; the hardware and software were literally built for each other. ITCH is professional DJ Software that speaks directly to iTunes, and while not as full-featured as Traktor or it’s sibling Scratch, it gets the job done seamlessly.

Touch-sensitive jog wheels, full-feature buttons, mic/headphone input, along with two forms of output define the VCI-300 as a very compact and powerful controller. For the money, it is a great option for a DJ looking to jump right into powerful mixing with a reliable, easy-to use software.

Numark OmniControl

This jog wheel controller developed by Numark ships with Traktor LE software, and uses USB interface to connect to a computer. Like Serato’s ITCH, it is a diet version of the professional version of the software; so DJ’s looking for full-featured software for sampling or production purposes will need to do minimal. The unit has it’s own auxiliary and RCA outputs on the backside, and a headphone input on the front, which is oddly not complimented with its own independent volume knob.

Physically, the OmniControl is pieced together from high-grade aluminum and altogether showcases Numark’s recent efforts towards durability. Sacrifices arise when given the advantage of mobility; the OmniControl is not large, resulting in a crowded face. Multiple reviews have warned that careless fingers or large hands will have trouble with accidently tweaking knobs or bumping faders. While scratching on the jog wheels is possible, it comes nowhere close to the feel and performance of 12” vinyl, and most users of the unit will not use it primarily for scratching.

Overall, the OmniControl caters to some specific features well, and doesn’t sell itself on the ones it doesn’t, which positions the product towards the entry-level DJ who wants to learn the basics and develop skills at a moderately low price.

Cortex DMIX-300/600

Similar to the other jog wheel controllers in shape and size, the Cortex DMIX 300 offers similar features with a 2-channel mixer, 3 RCA outputs, but with an interface that speaks to an external storage device instead of designated software. The user can connect an external hard drive, a USB flash drive or an iPod, and play all tracks directly from that one device. Navigation is easy with LCD displays and keyboard support.

The easy-to-use, all-in-one system essentially eliminates the need for all other hardware, even a laptop. PC integration is possible however, and Cortex includes database software that allows the user to conveniently organize crates, update firmware & update the iPod.

Unfortunately, the unit is somewhat limited. Saving cue points is a hassle, because the iPod must be specially formatted through Windows, there are no full EQ kill switches, no BPM detection and no key lock – features that were added onto the older brother, the updated Cortex DMIX 600, which possesses the same qualities that set the DMIX 300 apart from other jog wheel controllers, with altogether better hardware and broader database management options.

A cheap option, with the 600 being the recommendation, as it is only $100 USD more than the younger 300.

Hercules RMX

Separating itself from other jog wheel controllers through its extreme level of durability and build quality, the Hercules RMX delivers full-fledged entry-level control, and comes with a diet Virtual DJ version. In contrast to a higher-end controller like the VCI-300, which runs on Serato ITCH, the differences are highly noticeable. Many reviewers dislike the native limited Virtual DJ software, which is unattractive and insufficient. However, you can map the controller with other compatible software. For some, the price and durability of this controller is right up their alley, but those who want a high level of performance and broader compatibility, it is in the shadow of controllers such as the VCI-300.

Numark NS7

Upon it’s release, the Numark NS7 was in a league of its own in the world of software controllers. Full 7” aesthetic vinyl turntables, a software navigation panel, a CP-pro crossfader, five hot cue buttons, strip search and professional build all around make this unit a software DJ’s dream. Like the Vestax VCI-300, Serato helped develop it’s ITCH software directly in conjunction with Numark’s hardware. The software navigation panel near the top of the NS7 allows the user to do 95% of track surfing without touching the laptop. DJ’s who have used software with latency issues will instantly notice the instantaneous reaction the software gets from the hardware. Scratching is more natural with the vinyl surfaces and much wider room to work in contrast to the cluttered jog wheel controllers. For beginning DJs who have never owned or operated any equipment before and are looking to get right into full-featured professional software mixing, this is the cutting edge setup. Numark’s price is steep compared to the jog wheel mixers, but compared to dropping thousands of dollars on CDJs, it is a rather reasonable solution.

Mobility is the only issue that raises a flag. The entire rig weighs in at about 35+ pounds, and is extremely unwieldy unless contained within a travel case, which cost another ~$300. Most reviewers agree, you get what you pay for, and if you are in need of new hardware or a solid upgrade, and money isn’t extremely tight, this won’t miss.

Recently, Numark added an effects controller, the NSFX, and also introduced the V7, which is essentially one of the NS7’s turntables sold separately, with the ability to work with any mixer and ITCH.

Overall, in recommending controllers for potential buyers, it essentially comes down to how much you’re willing to spend. Functionality, ease of use, mobility and build quality are all factors that are highly proportional to how much you’ll spend.

For controller searchers with a smaller budget ($100 – $300) I’ll recommend the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol X1 for DJs who are looking for a great way to ease through their Traktor software, or DJs with an existing setup that want to integrate software into their spinning. The jog wheel controller that I feel provides the best value is the Hercules RMX; essentially the same price as the Numark OmniControl with a little more versatility and the build toughness worthy of the name Hercules.

Buyers with an intermediate budget will likely not regret the choice of a Vestax VCI-300. The sleek design, the myriad of features, the seamless integration with Serato’s ITCH, and the stellar reviews all reflect the wonderful value you’ll get out of this unit.

For high-end buyers looking to make an investment for the sake of professional-style mixing and scratching, the Numark NS7 is still in a legue of its own. At first glance, it’s still an expensive product, especially since it’s release was more than a year ago, but after dissecting everything you’re really getting, the reasonability of the price will reveal itself. If money isn’t a high priority in your shopping, this is the software controller that will keep raising eyebrows longer than it’s competitor controllers.

I had the pleasure of exchanging emails with DJ JayCeeOh from NY and he recently released a new mix to kick off his Summer Tour starting.  I know most of you are more interested in what he’s rocking up on stage.  Serato, Rane 56, Macbook Pro, Technics 1200 and Ableton are the mainstays of his toolbox.

Just in time for summer, Pop Models 3 is a high energy mix of Electro, House, Disco, Funk, and Baltimore Clubchalked full of original edits and remixes, weaved together like only JayCeeOh can. Look out for Highsnobiety x JayCeeOh (US/Europe) Summer Tour 2010 jumping off July 15- August 15th.

Highsnobiety
Presents
DJ JAYCEEOH
“POP MODELS 3″

DOWNLOAD LINK:

http://soundcloud.com/jayceeoh/highsnobiety-presents-pop-models-volume-3

1. Swizz Beats vs Krs One – Blow My Mind (JayCeeOh Edit)
2. EL Trago – Machete Mix (JayCeeOh Edit)
3. Classixx – I’ll Get You (Light Years Bass Remix)
4. Wiley vs  Diana Ross (B.A.R.T.O Edit)
5. Imma Be (Wolfgang Gartner Remix) (JayCeeOh Edit)
6. Bob Sinclair – New New (Julian Crediance remix)
7. Dragonette – Fixin To Thrill (Villians Remix)
8. Rock That Body – (Api De Ap & DJ Replay Remix) (JayCeeOh Edit)
9. MArk the 45 King – 900 Number (Fn Dannyboy Remix) (JayCeeOh Edit)
10. Crookers – Fly Away (JayCeeOh Edit)
11. Calvin Harris vs Soul Searcher
12. Noria – (Chaos In The CBD G-MIx)
13. Renco & Ruqiero Bootleg (JayCeeOh Edit)
14. A Mover La Colita (Interlude)
15. Surkin – Fan Out
16. Hot City – Hot City Bass
17. Bingo Players – When I Dip
18. Noob & Brodinski – Peanuts Club (JayCeeOh Edit)
19. No Worry (JayCeeOh All Night Edit)
20. Dont Stop The Body Rock (DJ Kue 1986 Remix) (JayCeeOh Edit)
21. Stash Horse – U Are The One
22. DJ Chuckie – Aftershock
23. Bass Line Pumpin Interlude
24. U-Tern – Syle Class Fair
25. Senor Stereo – Hot Damn
26. Gorillaz – Stylo (Remix)

Sonic Tee in its full glory –

“Living in Belgium since 2002, it hasn’t taken long for Timofey to make a name for himself in this flat country. A native of Russia, Timofey, at 27 years old, has become a local favourite in the Belgian clubbing scene, thanks to his personality, his extensive music production training and experience, and his DJ skills. 2006 saw Timofey release his album BREATHING, where the quality is found in the blend of various music styles such as Funk, Trip-hop, Jazz and Ambient. Following its release, he performed several ECHOES shows in close collaboration with the French band Woodish. Currently, Timofey spends a lot of time clubbing. He regularly mixes his electro house set live at Brussels. Apart from mixing, Timofey also remixes for other artists, composes and produces his own tracks, and has collaborated with well-known DJ’s such as Kylian Mash, Dave Lambert, Elektrokid, Goachim Garraud, Bartosz Brenes, Dave McCullen, etc.”

When deadmau5 put out his smashing hit “Ghosts N stuff“, Timofey recreated it with ableton, just showcasing the power of software production tools and the reality that you don’t need tens of thousands of moola to make dope tracks.  Sure, this created quite a controversy at beatportal with people arguing the “newsworthiness” of the track. Regardless, you can’t help but appreciate the precision and attention of this re-creation of a song from one of the biggest producers in the industry. Learn something from him and check out all his goods, not to mention ours.

From Washington Post

“Great DJs are like demigods around here: You depend on them to drop beats you’ve never heard before, and, if they’re really on, to keep you moving long past last call. They provide the soundtrack for almost every night that we’re out.

It’s no wonder that practically everyone in this town with a full iPod and 15 records wants be a DJ, too.

Banking on the idea that the area is teeming with wannabe DJ Shadows, a pair of D.C.’s better-known turntablists are helping to launch a local DJ school modeled after New York’s famed Scratch DJ Academy (which has branches in Miami and L.A.).

The Beat Refinery will be run by Chris Stiles (who, as DJ Stylus Chris, has regular gigs at Modern, Current and the 95 Live party at Steve’s Barroom;) and Brian Sadiarin (better known by Eyebar and Ibiza patrons as DJ Geometrix or, for short, DJ Geo). It will be run out of Bethesda’s Bach 2 Rock music school, and it opens May 3.

Stiles, who was one of the proprietors of DJ Hut, the late-great Dupont Circle go-to-spot for equipment and records, says he sees the school as the next step in his career (being a club DJ at age 50, he says, is not).

“Isn’t this what we’re supposed to be doing? Each one teach one?” he told me when I went to check out Beat Refinery’s turntable-filled classroom last week. He was handpicked by Bach 2 Rock’s chief exec Michael Chung last summer to curate the curriculum; Chung, a former DJ himself, had long wanted to launch a school for turntablists, and the moment seemed ripe.

For now, the school is offering an introductory course, Basic DJ Techniques. (Intermediate classes and a pair of Scratching & Turntablism courses are on the way). The classes — each accommodating 8 to 10 students — will be 90 minutes apiece, once a week for six weeks. Students can sign up for 18-and-older sessions, 18-and-younger sessions or choose one of the mixed classes. Sadiarin told me that every class, beginning on Day 1, will incorporate both traditional techniques and Serato Scratch Live, a “DJ emulation” software that some DJs publicly balk at, but if you look closely, many are using.

Which brings us to the pricetag: $375 for the intro course (private lessons are $76 an hour). It seemed pricey to me, so I checked in with Scratch in New York. The six-week introductory course there is $300, with each class clocking in at 70 minutes. So, it turns out, they’re pretty comparable.

With so many self-taught DJs in town — and I mean everyone from the fuzzy rockers playing vinyl-only nights at Velvet Lounge to the club DJs spinning “Single Ladies” — we want you to weigh in.

D.C. DJs: Do you think would-be DJs need lessons to get in the booth? Do you wish you had something like this when you were cutting your teeth?

– Lavanya Ramanathan”