DJ Equipment Recommendations June 2014

Review: Simple but effective entry-level business from analogue mixer dons Allen & Heath. Innovative 2+2 channel design with three-band EQ and flexible filter section. Sound quality on a par with much more expensive options. Seriously hard to beat for the money.

Supplier notes:
Xone:23 is a 2+2 channel DJ mixer packed with pro features that would normally be found in the booth of a top-rated club, including an enhanced version of the legendary Xone filter with resonance control, VCA faders, 3 band total kill EQ, illuminated switches, crossfader curve selector and styling inspired by the flagship Xone:DB4.

At the heart of the mixer is the renowned analogue Voltage Control Filter (VCF) system offering Low-Pass and High-Pass filters, frequency sweep and 'mild to wild' resonance control. There is also an FX loop to connect to third party FX units, which route back in through the filter system.

The 2 stereo channels feature independent level controls for each input enabling up to four stereo sources to be simultaneously routed to the mix, as well as the dedicated send and return system for external FX.

The main mix output and mic input are on professional standard balanced XLR's, and there is a dedicated record output. The Xone:23 is equipped with comprehensive monitoring facilities, including a booth output with its own volume control, a cue mix control, and signal levels clearly displayed on the 9 segment peak hold meters.

Styled on the Xone:DB4, the Xone:23 includes soft touch, backlit controls, light-piped meters and a distinctive new shaped steel faceplate. The mixer can also be upgraded with the latest Innofader for enhanced scratch performance, available as an accessory.

Review: The Ortofon DJ S stylus is one of the most widely used Ortofon styli, with an excellent technical reputation. It provides moderate record wear and a good skip resistance, making it particularly suitable for scratching. It is for use with Ortofon Concorde DJ S cartridge.

Review: The classic SL-1200 is one of the first covers Decksaver ever manufactured. Technics stopped producing the lids for these thoroughbred decks shortly after they were discontinued, meaning that there would be thousands of turntables out there with little or no protection.

Meanwhile, the 1200 (and 1210) has remained an extremely popular item on the second-hand circuit, becoming perhaps one of the most sought-after pieces of discontinued music equipment, especially the limited edition models, which exchange hands for eye-watering amounts.

Despite its rugged and heavy-duty characteristics which earned the turntable it's reliable "workhorse" reputation, it must be noted that the elements of the topside of the device are still relatively delicate, and can be prone to damage if not handled properly.

The tonearm can be damaged fairly easily, and replacing it can be an awkward process. Whilst it is feasible to replace the tonearm, it requires a degree of skill and can be cumbersome. What makes the process even more difficult, is that individual tonearms are increasingly rare, and it is often more economically viable just to replace the entire unit, rendering the old unit useless.

The platter, while sturdy, can also be damaged through enough pressure, which can damage the delicate mechanical components underneath. The switches and buttons, while comparatively tough compared to other models on the market, can also be broken easily through accidental damage.

This Technics turntable cover fits the 1200, 1210 and similar models, such as the Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 and PLX-1000 perfectly. The form fit allows them to fit easily into a gig bag or other ancillary equipment case, whilst the simple push fit design shields the tonearm from accidental damage whilst making allowances for cables, so your turntable can sit ready for operation.

Over the years, these covers have saved tens of thousands of Technics turntables from the scrapyard. Without them, who knows how much rarer the 1210s would be today?

At home, on the road, or in the club, Decksaver has your turntable covered.

Weight 0.63 kg
Length 45.6 cm
Width 35.6 cm
Height 7.5 cm

Material: Smoked clear polycarbonate.

Fits:

SL-1200
SL-1200/1210 MK2
SL-1200 MK3D
SL-1200 MK4
SL-1200/1210 MK5
SL-1200 MK6/MK6KI
SL-1200/1210 MK7
PLX-CRSS12
PLX-1000
SL-1200 LTD/GLD
SL-1200 M3D
Mixars LTA/STA
Gemini PT-1000
SL-1200 G
SL-1200 GR

Review: This trendy Technics Recordbag can be carried in 3 different ways: on the back, around the neck or like a suitcase. It effortlessly holds 45 records and offers additional space for mobile phone, headphones and other accessories.

The robust material is not only water-repellent but also very robust and tear-resistant, so that your record collection and accessories are always safely protected. The stylish DJ bag is available in many different colours and designs. Either classically discreet or special and striking - you decide.

A must for every Technics fan.

Features Technics BackBag
Capacity: 45 LPs
Embroidered Technics Logo
Robust and high quality material
Front pocket for mobile phone with zipper
Front pocket with zip for various accessories
Removable carrying strap
Removable, padded compartment with Velcro closure
3 different wearing options
On the back like a backpack
Around the neck thanks to the practical shoulder strap
Like a suitcase with a carrying handle
Technical Specifications
Width: 170 mm
Length: 320 mm
Height: 330 mm
weight: 1.05 kg