American Audio Releases VX Series Amps Packed With Value-Added Features At Value-Driven Price

LOS ANGELES - American Audio has unleashed the VX Professional Amplifier Series - three astounding and affordable power amps that boast a stunning away of features previously out of reach of budget-conscious audiophiles. Designed for installations, DJs and bands, the series includes models VX 1000, VX 1500, and VX 2500 — which feature 1100W, 1500W and 2800W RMX respectively at 4 ohms bridged mono.

Constructed for the highest reliability and sound performance, with premium features like built-in dynamic sound processing circuitry, the VX amps deliver an extraordinary audio quality that may have consumers not believing their ears - and their price will certainly have consumers disbelieving their eyes! The smallest model VX1000 sells for less than $300 “on the street” ($299.99 MAP), while the VX 1500 goes for under $400 ($399.99 MAP), and the big daddy VX 2500 for under $600.00 ($599.99 MAP).

“We are proud to present a brand-new generation of power amplifiers that offer outstanding professional grade performance and features at price points that DJs, bands and small clubs can afford,” said Tom Freret, American Audio’s National Sales Manager. “Too often up-and-coming or working class musicians and DJs have to ‘settle,’ or a club owner with a big vision but a modest budget has to compromise. We were inspired to give these professionals all the power they deserve with the features they want. For example, the VX amps’ dynamic sound circuitry significantly improves the dynamic range and quality of sound.”

Another premium feature on all three models is a bright, multifunctional LCD display, which gives users a full overview of functions and settings such as Temperature, Working Mode and Protection Mode. Since the “Mode” buttons are on the front of the unit, and you can view which mode you’re in on the LCD screen, the user does not have to touch the back of the amp to change modes. Everything can be done from the front of the unit - a convenience not commonly found on most amplifiers. Another user-convenience on the VX Series is that, in default mode, the LCD screen informs you of the temperature of each side of the amp. All three VX models also feature a Comprehensive Protection System (CPS) with Auto Shut Down, which protects the amplifier from damage by switching off in the event of an overload, high temperature or short circuit.

Yet another value-added feature on the VX series is a superior clip limiter that provides users with a broad palette of sonic possibilities. With a solid case design with 3mm steel, and back ears that can be mounted in a rack, the VX Series enables day-by-day use on the road as well as fixed installations in racks.

Here is a closer look at the 3 models in the VX Amplifier Series:

The VX 1000 has 1100W RMS per channel @ 4 ohms bridged mono. The unit is capable of stereo, parallel, or bridge modes. Output Power: 2 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 550W RMS per channel; 4 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 500W RMS per channel; 8 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD 330W RMS per channel. Bridged Mode, mono: 4 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 1100W RMS per channel; 8 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 1000W RMS per channel. Damping Factor: 300 (@ 8 ohms). The dimensions are height 3.5″, width 19″, depth, 16.5″, and the VX1000 weighs only 40 pounds. It has a street price of only $299.99.

The VX1500 has 1500W RMS per channel @ 4 ohms bridged mono. The unit is capable of stereo, parallel, or bridge modes. Output Power: 2 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 750W RMS per channel; 4 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 700W RMS per channel; 8 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD 450W RMS per channel. Bridged Mode, mono: 4 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 1500W RMS per channel; 8 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 1400W RMS per channel. Damping Factor: 300 (@ 8 ohms). The dimensions are height 3.5″, width 19″, depth, 16.5″, and the VX1500 weighs 45 pounds. It has a street price of only $399.99.

The VX2500 has 2500W RMS per channel @ 4 ohms bridged mono. The unit is capable of stereo, parallel, or bridge modes. Output Power: 2 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 1400W RMS per channel; 4 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 1200W RMS per channel; 8 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD 750W RMS per channel. Bridged Mode, mono: 4 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 2800W RMS per channel; 8 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 2400W RMS per channel. Damping Factor: 500 (@ 8 ohms). The dimensions are height 3.5″, width 19″, depth, 16.5″, and the VX2500 weighs 52 pounds. It has a street price of only $599.99.

Other specifications common to all 3 models include:
The Frequency Response is +/- 3dB, 1W RMS 8Ohms (20Hz-20kHz)
The Signal to Nose Ratio is less than 95 db, unweighted (@ 8 ohms full power)
The Input Sensitivity and Impedance is 1.0v rms (0dBv) (@ 4 ohms)
A 2-speed fan.

Denon DJ Offers Mp3 Disc Playback for DN-S1200

DENON DJ OFFERS MP3 DISC PLAYBACK FOR ITS DN-S1200 MEDIA PLAYER & CONTROLLER

– Firmware upgrade for Denon DJ’s latest DN-S1200 portable CD and MIDI DJ controller, enhances its features to include playback of MP3 on CD-ROM media –

– The upgrade, included on new models, is available to existing owners as a FREE download from www.denondj.com –

ITASCA, IL, May 12, 2009 — Denon DJ, a leading manufacturer of reliable, premium-grade DJ equipment, announces an upgrade for its DN-S1200 Media Player & Controller. The portable and powerful DN-S1200 already features playback of MP3 and WAV files from USB mass storage devices via its fast USB 2.0 ports. Denon DJ now boosts the functionality by implementing MP3 disc playback, via firmware, at no charge to its customer base. The Free-of-charge upgrade is downloadable from the website and enabled from the DN-S1200’s system upgrade capability via USB.

The DN-S1200 is the most feature-packed compact tabletop DJ controller on the market, advancing further Denon DJ’s reputation as the manufacturer of the most rock-solid reliable DJ controllers. The unit measures just 8.46″/215 mm (W) x 3.44″/87.4 mm (H) x 9.13″/232 mm (D) (without feet and Jog Disc).

The “killer app” features on the DN-S1200 are the multi-function touch sensitive Jog Disc, with its ultra-high resolution pulse and touch sensor mechanism and the unit’s Dual USB connectivity options - one for connecting portable music collections on hard drive, flash drive or iPod® (giving access to powerful on-board features like Instant Start, Seamless Looping, Scratching and File Searching) and one to control PC and Mac DJ software programs like NATIVE INSTRUMENTSTM Traktor®, Virtual DJ® and others. The DN-S1200 incorporates its own high-resolution (24-bit) USB audio interface, with a 2-channel stereo output pair - so there is no need for an external sound card. Fundamental features of SERATOTM Scratch Live® can also be controlled off of a USB flash drive or CD via timecode when used with Rane/Scratch Live hardware.

The 110 mm Jog Disc mechanism accurately reproduces the most rapid or the most subtle scratching movements made by the human hand, and can perform other vital functions such as pitch bending, scanning, file searching and Dry/Wet control for effects. Three platter effects include Brake (adjustable in real-time), Dump (reverse sound without losing true forward time, like a radio edit) and Reverse (plays music backwards and platter spins backwards too). The four superb built-in DSP effects include Flanger, Filter (High-Mid-Low), Echo and amazing Echo Loop, all with full parameter adjustment and a unique Dry/Wet mix control.

The illuminated slot-in, quick loading, fast reading CD drive offers a variety of audio compact disc support, including CD-R, CD-RW, CD-TEXT and now MP3 discs. Denon’s proprietary Next Track function enables search of tracks or files on either CD or connected USB media by eight different criteria (without interrupting play) and seamless crossfade on command. Crossfade time is user adjustable.

Two Hot Starts can be made on-the-fly and easily turned into Seamless Loops. The Hot Starts can also be used as Stutter points. The 4-way BPM counter provides Auto Beat Detection, Manual TAP and Manual BPM Input; it also reads MP3 / WAV BPM Metadata from USB devices (if available). The Memo function allows Cue point, BPM, Pitch Setting and Range, Pitch ON/OFF, Key ADJ ON / OFF and Seamless Loop A and B data to be stored directly to file for later recall. In addition, CD memo data can be exported to USB memory and shared with other DN-S1200 players.

For long mix transitions requiring high pitch resolution, the S1200 offers a 100-mm pitch slider with 0.02% for the 4% pitch range and 0.05% for the 10-16% pitch range. 24% / 50% / 100%
ranges are also available.

Another unique feature of the DN-S1200 is its informative and animated tube display. The display offers two lines of character information to quickly navigate through users’ CD TEXT tracks and USB files. A visual 32-position Marker Point indicator follows users’ hand movements at lighting speeds without drift. Other indicators include Looping, Hot Starts, BPM info, Elapsed / Remain Time, MP3 / WAV file types and other usable indicators.

The DN-S1200 will support Qwerty, Qwertz and Azerty USB keyboards (in nine different native languages) for simplified song search and assignable shortcut key functions, and two DN-S1200 players can be linked by a single RJ45 cross-cable (CAT5) for various shared operations such as Memo Cue Points from CDs, Relay Play and the use of a single keyboard.

The Denon DJ DN-S1200 is available now with an SRP of $599.99.

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About D&M Professional
D&M Professional, through its Denon® Professional, Marantz® Professional and Denon DJ brands, manufactures and distributes a leading line of professional audio and video equipment for the broadcast, commercial, corporate, DJ, education, government, audio/visual, education, houses of worship, security and related industries.
Visit D&M Professional at www.d-mpro.com or Denon DJ at: www.denondj.com.

About D&M Holdings Inc.
D&M Holdings Inc. is a global operating company providing worldwide management and distribution platforms for premium consumer, automotive, commercial and professional audio and video businesses including Denon®, Marantz®, McIntosh® Laboratory, Boston Acoustics®, Snell Acoustics, Escient®, Calrec Audio, Denon DJ, Allen & Heath, D&M Professional and D&M Premium Sound Solutions. Our technologies improve the quality of any audio and visual experience. All product and brand names with a trademark symbol are trademarks or registered trademarks of D&M Holdings, Inc. or its subsidiaries. For more information visit www.dm-holdings.com.

Gator’s G-Pro Rotationally Molded Polyethylene Rack Cases

Gator has unveiled a new line of rotationally molded Made in the USA, polyethylene rack cases with 19″ rack-able depth. These brawny roto molded cases come complete with recessed Penn Elcom® twist latches, front and rear removable lids, and molded-in ergonomic side carry handles. The G-Pro Series is engineered with interlocking tops and bottoms allowing secure stack-ability. All cases include heat treated 10/32 screws with protective washers and a free rack rail offer. Cases are available in a wide range of sizes such as 2U, 4U, 6U, 8U, 10U, and 12U.

For more information on this and other Gator Cases, check us out at www.gatorcases.com.

EarPollution DJ Style - Affordable DJ Headphones

Perfect for the up and coming mobile or club DJ, the IFrogz Ear Pollution DJ Style On-Ear Stereo Headsets (headphones) are an affordable DJ styled set of headphones available at under $50, and often under $40 depending on the retailer or directly from iFrogz. Made of plastic with chrome accents and nice comfort cushions they are on ear headphones that look much more expensive than they are. Currently available in 5 stylish designs I can imagine non-DJs wearing them instead of their white Apple earbuds or DJs wearing them when they don’t want to invest in the more expensive DJ specific brands. The sound coming out of them is strong with the 50mm drivers which give a great sound especially for the price point.

While researching the EarPollution DJ Style headphones for this review I also saw the new NervePipes custom headphones that iFrogz now has available. While they have smaller drivers, 40mm vs the 50mm of the EarPollution DJ Style, the rest of the specs seem similar. But the custom designability of them available through the iFrogz.Com website make them an awesome option for a DJ or an audiophile who wants something uniquely their own. On the NervePipes headphones you can customize the headband, sidepieces, hinges, speakers and ear custions color and the artwork on the side of the headphones with tons of different designs.

Overall make sure to check out iFrogz.com for more information on these affordable options that won’t break the bank!

Deejay Trim 4&6 Debuts at Musikmesse

Musikmesse, Frankfurt, April 1st, 2009 - Hercules, a pioneer in the world of digital audio mixing solutions for PC, is currently extending its professional range with an audio interface specifically tailored for DJs: the Hercules Deejay Trim 4&6.

Features include:
4 pre-amplified inputs, each featuring a view-meter
Two modes: a 4 input/4 output mode and a 2 input /6 output mode
A built-in 3-port USB 2.0 hub supplied by an external power adapter
A steel casing to handle the most intensive uses.

The essence of technology and connectivity, it perfectly meets all DJs requirements, while offering exemplary stability.

Visit us at the Hercules booth D11, Hall 5.0 at the Musikmesse show in Frankfurt, Germany from April 1st to 4th and be among the first to discover our latest innovation!

Audio performance and connectivity dedicated to DJing
Building on its expertise as a designer of integrated audio interfaces, Hercules has entirely created and tailored this new solution for DJs. It features a 4 input / 4 output configuration that can be switched to a 2 input / 6 output configuration, allowing users to export their mix to an external mixing device.
For easy integration to DJing gear, the device’s 4 Line or Phono inputs can be connected to CD or MP3 players (Line input) or turntables (Phono input) and be mixed with music files stored on the computer.

An additional feature: the pre-amplification on inputs is adjustable using two rotary switches allowing fine adjustment of the volume at the inputs, in order to fade high-level sources (e.g. some CD players) or amplify weaker audio sources, such as turntables.

The Hercules Deejay Trim 4&6 features 4 audio output channels: Two +4dBu ¼” Jack outputs for PA equipment and four -10dBv RCA outputs for mixing decks and conventional amplifiers. The 6 output mode enables users to transfer 2 stereo tracks separately to an external mixing deck, while adding a third stereo track for samples, loops and effects.

In addition to these inputs and outputs, a microphone connector with a talk-over feature, a headphones connector with a volume switch and a channel selector (channels 3 & 4 for monitoring and channels 1 & 2 for the mix) are included.

Great versatility
Featuring a 3-port high-speed USB hub, the Hercules Deejay Trim 4&6 can connect to a DJing controller or an external storage device (e.g. a USB key or a hard disk drive). The included power adapter avoids any variation in the sound level that could be generated by fluctuations in the computer’s USB bus electrical supply.
The Hercules audio interface features 4 view-meters, 1 per channel, to control the volume of each channel (6 LEDs per channel) and identify any connectivity issues.

Intuitive and robust
Thanks to its steel casing, the Hercules Deejay Trim 4&6 can withstand intensive use and mesh seamlessly with other DJing equipment. Two handles mounted on the audio interface’s front face allow users to hold the device easily. Hercules has grouped all connectors at the back of the device (except the microphone and headphones connectors and 1 USB port), in order to make connectivity features accessible; these remain well-ordered, without encumbering both sides of the device, and reduce the risk of irritating cable entanglements. Four wide non-slip pads guarantee perfect stability, even with the weight of cables connected at the back of the device.
The view-meters, visible on the device’s front face, offer convenient control over the audio interface’s volume, whether mixing standing or seated - and even if CD cases are stacked on the unit.

This innovative DJing audio interface by Hercules will be available at the end of June 2009, at the suggested retail price of $249.99.

Discover the complete Hercules DJing range on www.hercules.com

Stanton Introduces SCS.3m Mixer Controller

HOLLYWOOD, FL - March 31, 2009 - Stanton DJ, an industry leader in the design and manufacturer of professional audio products for DJs, announces the official release of the SCS.3m, the next installment in their award-winning, SC System 3 series controllers. The SCS.3m is a portable new MIDI controller with a unique control surface that emulates the layout of a traditional two channel mixer, but is completely touch-sensitive and features the acclaimed StanTouch® technology introduced in its deck controller counterpart, the Stanton SCS.3d. Each SCS.3m will ship with a new version of Native Instruments’ Traktor LE that is based on the latest TRAKTOR PRO software platform, allowing the SC System 3 products to be used together to create a full DJ system with intuitive control over the robust software features introduced with Traktor LE. Using only the SCS.3m, SCS.3d, and Traktor LE, a complete DJ rig with performance control features that surpass the capabilities of traditional mixer/deck equipment can be setup anywhere in the world within minutes.

The SCS.3m incorporates all of the functions of a two channel DJ mixer, plus a host of new performance features made possible by Stanton’s unique touch sensitive control surface. The touch sensitive sliders can be used to tweak EQs, allowing DJs to bring in different elements of a song during a mix, or instantly switch the sliders to control FX parameters within Traktor LE. The wide, touch-sensitive crossfader allows for seamless slow blends between decks, but is also able to detect multiple finger presses, allowing for quick transform effects all in one control surface. The multicolor buttons can easily perform transport controls for starting and stopping playback, setting loops, doing EQ kills, or engaging effects without requiring a separate trigger controller. All of the visual indicators stay 100% in sync with applications supporting MIDI feedback, allowing for clear indication of the software settings and positions in low light situations. Additionally, the unique surface provides a new level of durability, since there are no moving parts to wear or break.

“The SCS.3m is the next step in creating a modular, flexible and scalable control system. It’s always been our vision to make the 3 series a powerful, adaptable, and expandable line of products and the 3m takes the next logical step in providing the mixer analogy to stand next to the 3d”, said Jim Mazur, Stanton’s Director of Product Development.

Every SCS.3m comes with the ability to unlock Native Instrument’s award winning Traktor Pro software. One of the first controllers integrating with the new Traktor LE, the SCS.3m is designed to interface seamlessly with Traktor’s internal mixer, and incorporate full application feedback from Traktor, ensuring complete parity between hardware and software. iTunes® integration, album art support, and broad file compatibility allow for unparalleled music collection browsing and management, so finding and organizing tracks is quick and simple. An advanced tempo detection / synchronization engine enables the DJ to sync the decks for an automatic beat match once music has been loaded into the virtual deck eliminating the traditional challenges of lining up two songs for a mix. For the more accomplished DJ, Traktor LE also opens the door to advanced performance techniques such as dropping FX and looping for live remixing.

The SCS.3m can be used as a standalone controller for basic software mixing, but when paired with the SCS.3d deck controllers, provide a completely mobile MIDI control rig that allows DJs to plug and play anywhere in the world without the traditional hassles. With a built-in powered USB hub, the SCS.3m can also be connected to one or more SCS.3d controllers, offering up a high tech version of a full traditional DJ setup, without weight, size and connectivity issues. Additionally, special custom presets for other popular DJ applications are available for free download on the Stanton website.

The SCS.3m will make its international debut on April 1st at Stanton’s Musikmesse booth in Frankfurt, Germany. The unit is priced at $249 Suggested Retail, and will be available in music and DJ retail locations worldwide in May of 2009.

For more information on the SCS.3m, other products in the SC System family, or Stanton’s full line of traditional DJ equipment, please visit www.stantondj.com and www.enterthesystem.com. To request additional information or images of the SCS.3M, please contact PR Representative Breen Halley at (305) 576-1171 x23 breenhalley@maxborgesagency.com.
About Stanton Magnetics

Founded in 1946, Stanton Magnetics is an industry leader in the design and manufacture of professional audio products for DJs, Live Sound Reinforcement and install applications. A member of the Stanton Group of companies, Stanton DJ products include turntables, high-performance cartridges, CD players, DJ mixers, accessories, and digital controllers. With over 50 years of innovation, Stanton is the name DJs trust. For additional information, visit the company online at www.stantondj.com.

DENON DJ Now Shipping NEW DN-S3700 Digital Media Turntable

“Best of Both Worlds”: nine-inch real vinyl Spinning Platter Design offers today’s most advanced digital features and music access capabilities with classic turntable touch-feel –

ITASCA, IL, March 16, 2009 — Denon DJ, a leading manufacturer of reliable, premium-grade DJ equipment, is now shipping its new DN-S3700 Digital Media Turntable. The Direct Drive Turntable Media Player & Controller is a leading-edge single-deck portable DJ instrument that provides working DJs with a host of useful features for enhanced creative flexibility. Most notably, thanks to its large 9″ spinning platter design, the DN-S3700 offers DJ’s the best of both worlds from both digital and analog realms. In addition to a host of advanced digital features, including USB and MIDI control, the sleek and elegant unit includes a built-in authentic vinyl record for surface control driven by Denon DJ’s High Torque Direct Drive Motor, providing users with the classic and unmistakable feel of true vinyl.

Denon DJ Brand Manager Silvio Zeppieri stated, “The DN-S3700 is exactly what many professional DJs have dreamed about - a hybrid digital/analog design with a larger platter that not only affords access to all types of media playback styles, including MP3 disc access, but lets users express themselves creatively using classic vinyl tricks of the trade, with the original touch-feel design of vinyl that many DJs grew up with - and that really started it all! With the addition of the new DN-S3700 to our lineup, Denon DJ is giving working DJs an even more comprehensive range of every kind of tool and solution they need to succeed and grow their creative talents.”

Sleek New Design, Innovative New Features
In addition to its new 9″ Spinning Platter Design and real vinyl record included, driven by a powerful Direct Drive Motor with torque adjustments, the DN-S3700 features a new sleek stylish and intuitive design with brushed aluminum corners and solid aluminum feet that will appeal to working DJs who want to look as good as they sound. Innovative new features include three Auto loops with real-time loop length adjust and loop trim capabilities. In addition, the attractive and easy-to-read new display adds visual waveform data to the mix, providing information on hot start, auto loop, and break point data.

The DN-S3700’s 9″ platter mounted with real vinyl is constructed with an ultra high-resolution pulse sensor mechanism to accurately reproduce the subtlest or swiftest scratching movements made by the human hand. The platter can perform other vital functions too, such as pitch bending, frame searching and quick file navigation from external USB devices. For added creative flexibility, three “hot starts” can be made on the fly, which also double as auto loops. In addition to auto loops, traditional A-B loops can be manually executed on the opposite side of the player. And thanks to its built-in crystal clear DSP Effects, building the mood of the dance floor and remixing live has never been easier. DJs can easily activate and have full parameter control with a Dry/Wet mix control of the effects: Flanger, Filter (High-Mid-Low), Echo and Echo/Loop, as well as 3 Platter Effects, including Brake (adjustable in real-time), Dump (reverse sound without losing true forward time, like a radio edit) and Reverse (plays your music backwards). For those DJs who perform long mix transitions and require high pitch resolution, the S3700 offers pitch control via a 100-mm pitch slider with 0.02% for the ±6% pitch range and 0.05% for the ±10/16% pitch range. Wide ±100% range is also available.

Innovative “Spinning” Turntable-Style MIDI Controller with Control of DJ Software
The innovative Denon DN-S3700 is also a “spinning” turntable-style MIDI Controller with Sound Card that gives users the advanced capability of controlling various DJ Mac®/PC application software. The super-versatile and sophisticated DJ instrument lets users bring together and enjoy access to huge music libraries from virtually all-existing storage media, including Apple® iPods® and USB Flash Drives. For total flexibility, it features an illuminated Slot-In CD Player, a quick-loading and fast data reading mechanism that offers a variety of audio compact disc support, including CD, CD-R, CD-RW and CD-TEXT. Thanks to its advanced External USB Device Support, users have access to vast portable music collections stored on external USB media and may connect their iPod, Thumb Drive, and large Hard Drives for easy access to small or extensive MP3/WAV libraries of up to 50,000 files. Users must simply plug these devices into the DN-S3700 to obtain the powerful on-board features, such as Instant Start, Seamless Looping, Effects, Scratching and easy File Searching, to name a few.

Notably, with its MIDI Interface Controller (PC/Mac), the DN-S3700 is also designed to interface and control a variety of popular DJ programs that support USB MIDI in/out interface, either by user custom mapping or direct native support by the software vendor. Users can easily control their favorite DJ software all from a single advanced compact player. Unlike most dedicated DJ MIDI controllers that are only USB bus powered, the DN-S3700 encompasses its own internal power supply to achieve the highest electrical specifications, resulting in best possible performance. The DN-S3700 features industry leading Burr Brown (a product of Texas Instruments) 24-bit DAC processing for superior output audio fidelity.

The DN-S3700 comes complete with Denon DJ’s acclaimed Music Manager Software. Among its groundbreaking features is a highly refined search system, which lets users navigate and tag edit quickly through any MP3/WAV files connected to the system, with search criteria including Folder, Artist, Album, Title, Genre, Year, BPM and Playlists. The Music Manager will also auto calculate the BPM’s for files as well as create the visual waveform data supported on the DN-S3700’s display.

The Denon DN-S3700 is now shipping with an SRP of $1,099.99.
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About D&M Professional
D&M Professional, through its Denon® Professional, Marantz® Professional and Denon DJ brands, manufactures and distributes a leading line of professional audio and video equipment for the broadcast, commercial, corporate, DJ, education, government, audio/visual, education, houses of worship, security and related industries.
Visit D&M Professional at www.d-mpro.com or Denon DJ at: www.denondj.com.

About D&M Holdings Inc.
D&M Holdings Inc. is a global operating company providing worldwide management and distribution platforms for premium consumer, automotive, commercial and professional audio and video businesses including Denon®, Marantz®, McIntosh® Laboratory, Boston Acoustics®, Snell Acoustics, Escient®, Calrec Audio, Denon DJ, Allen & Heath, D&M Professional and D&M Premium Sound Solutions. Our technologies improve the quality of any audio and visual experience. All product and brand names with a trademark symbol are trademarks or registered trademarks of D&M Holdings, Inc. or its subsidiaries. For more information visit www.dm-holdings.com.

EKS Otus DJ Controller Launches - Review Coming Soon!

EKS is proud to announce the launch of its latest addition to the controller family. Known for its previous portable DJ controllers XP10 and XP5, EKS will now introduce the revolutionary Otus model range.

EKS Otus will bring fresh thinking to the DJ controller world. Otus are designed with both usability and technological progress in mind. While the controllers will feel familiar to users of current DJ tools they will also allow better use the software features of tomorrow.

The first one in the family - Otus dualdeck - is a professional 2-in-1 DJ controller. The revolutionary virtual audio technology enables the use of multichannel soundcard inside Otus with different DJ software. This makes it possible for a DJ to play two audio channels simultaneously with just one controller. Otus is equipped with a big, configurable 7.5″ jog wheel and new features for effects control, including touchpad and two motion sensors. Otus also brings you an innovative switch key which enables the DJ to flexibly use two layers of controls. To add more show into the mix, the effects controls are placed to make performing more visual. All this combined with the state of the art space age design, solid aluminum build and fully configurable controls makes Otus a true next generation DJ controller. With the advanced MIDI support and Midi mappers it will be easy to configure Otus with just about any software application imaginable, be it audio, video or something else altogether, leaving the boundaries to be defined only by artist’s imagination. Otus dualdeck will have a suggested retail price of $899.

A more rugged single deck controller Otus RAW will be added to the Otus product line during the summer of 2008. Otus RAW has a more traditional approach to controlling software and will be the perfect bridge between the CD players of today and digital possibilities of tomorrow. Otus RAW will feature 7 1/2 inch jog wheel, high quality physical pitch slider, touchpad for effect and mouse control and 4 velocity pads for effect/sample/cuepoint launch.

Otus dualdeck features:

• High resolution 7.5″ wheel with touch sense (position/speed LED indicated)
• 2 Near Field Motion -sensors
• 17 low trave
• buttons
• 6 touch buttons
• 10 assignable control-knobs
• A built-in touchpad/assignable X/Y control-surface for mouse or effect control
• 80mm touch sensitive pitch slider, with position LEDs
• Switch button for virtual>dualdeck play
• Al
• controls LED backlit
• Integrated 24-bit 4ch audio interface
• Two stereo RCA outputs
• Headphone output

About EKS:
EKS was founded in 2000 by a select group of audio engineers, DJs, producers and software engineers who set out to create a new standard in digital DJ controllers. Out of this, the XP10 and later the XP5 were born and instantly met with great acclaim by the industry’s best. Most recently, EKS engineers completed development of the most innovative and fully configurable controller ever conceived - the Otus. While new to North America, the Otus is acknowledged by many of Europe’s most well respected industry magazines and professional DJs as the most cutting edge controller on the market. www.eks.fi

KRK Systems® Launches R6 Passive Studio Monitor

New Monitor’s look and performance based on industry-standard Rokit monitors

Hollywood, FL - February 19th, 2009 - KRK Systems, the world’s leading manufacturer of powered recording monitors, today announced the availability of the R6 passive studio monitor. The R6 incorporates design cues from KRK’s best selling Rokit line, including radically radiused edges along the front of the cabinet.

Since 2004 Rokit monitors have provided thousands of musicians, songwriters, producers and remixers with a value-priced monitor that delivered meaningful mixes that translate to all listening environments. The R6, like its Rokit brethren, remains true to this legacy, providing a sleeker, more modern look that is as functional as it is beautiful. A key component to the new look is the molded front baffle. This design feature virtually eliminates diffraction distortion caused by standard flat baffles.

The R6 leverages KRK’s research and development into baffle design and fabrication. The curved front baffle was engineered to minimize diffraction of high-frequencies, resulting in a sweet spot that is significantly larger than products with square or lightly rounded baffles. The baffle also houses a molded front-facing bass port that minimizes low-frequency phase distortion and unwanted frequency emphasis typical of rear-facing bass ports. The end result is a harmonious yet accurate blend of low and high-frequency components that result in a more accurate speaker. The R6 voicing is designed to mimic the voicing of KRK’s Rokit 6 monitor, which is renowned for its accuracy and mid-range clarity. The R6 features 5-way speaker binding posts, a precision crossover and is capable of handling 100 watts (RMS) of power.

“While powered monitors make up the majority of the studio monitor business, there is still demand for passive monitors. The R6 addresses the needs of broadcasters, project studios and home enthusiasts by providing legendary KRK precision and accuracy in a passive speaker,” said Tony Rodrigues, Vice-President of Marketing for KRK Systems.

The new R6 has a MAP price of $149, and is available now at leading music retailers around the world.

For additional information and/or images, please contact KRK Media Representative Sarah Lombard at slombard@stantongroup.ws.
About KRK Systems:

A member of the Stanton Group of companies, KRK Systems is a leader in studio monitors and control room solutions for the professional audio market. KRK products are distributed throughout the world via a network of distributors and dealers in more than 75 countries. For additional information on all KRK Systems products, please visit us online at www.krksys.com.

Amplify Your Protection

Gator introduces the new line of made in the USA, rotationally molded, amp cases which are specifically designed to fit most popular size amplifiers. This high-performance case is available in 1-12 and 2-12 sizes and allows the amp to sit safely and securely on top of the case during use. The unique open-top design provides access directly to the amplifier handle eliminating the chance of handle breakage and ensuring easy transport. The Gator Roto Amp line frame height expands from 16″ to 21″ for multiple heights and incorporates two wrap around straps with clips to secure the lid to the base along with 3″ heavy-duty casters providing optimum protection during transit.

For more information on this and other Gator Cases, check us out at www.gatorcases.com.

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