HDC-1000 versus Laptop ?

[welby]

Hi All,

first off can I say a big thanks to all that welcomed me in the newbie section. I'm pleased to say I now have a good basic dj setup to build upon(pictures to follow).

I have my first booking ( an 18th Birthday party) whoooo! :D

I now want to expand on my setup and go digital (saves humping round cd's etc).

The question I want to raise is: "whats the best way forward"?

Do I put my money into a laptop or do I opt for an HDC-1000 digital controller.

My initial thoughts were a reasonable spec good second-hand laptop. That way I could also offer karaoke as well, considering I have a good collection of CD+G Files. It could also drive my twin cd decks.

But then I'm drawn back to the HDC-1000 for ease of use etc.

It would be a simple answer if I did not want the karaoke option.

Lordy Lord, can someone please point me in the right direction?

Mark

[OllieJames]

I'm planning on buying the HDC 1000 instead of using a laptop, but i won't be doing karaoke.

I'd go with the HDC 1000 because it seems easy to use, and imo, i think it'd be more reliable than a laptop (crashing wise etc)

:)

[welby]

I'm planning on buying the HDC 1000 instead of using a laptop, but i won't be doing karaoke.

I'd go with the HDC 1000 because it seems easy to use, and imo, i think it'd be more reliable than a laptop (crashing wise etc)

:)

It's a shame the HDC-1000 doesn't support CD+G files! :bang:

Thanks for your comments.

Mark

[Peter Lockwood]

it is not just the price of the laptop u will need the software to run your music i use a laptop runing vdj a cortex 1000 for backup and cd's when i get borred



Admin Note:

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[deltic]

sold my cortex on fleabay did'nt like it
numark d2 all the way

[DazzyD]

I use two laptops - one for disco and one for karaoke. The laptops could easily run both functions at the same time (and have done so in the past) but for ease of use (especially for an older guy that does some work me from from time to time and uses my kit) I decided to use two.

I'm still turning work down by being booked already so I'm looking to bring my new system forward a bit. Been looking at the D2 for that setup. Got to get the funding finialised first though.

[CRAZY K]

sold my cortex on fleabay did'nt like it
numark d2 all the way

Should have put it on DJ BIds

Excalibur would have bought it at the right price:D :D :D

Or me :thumbs_up:

CRAZY K

[Excalibur]

Should have put it on DJ BIds

Excalibur would have bought it at the right price:D :D :D

Or me :thumbs_up:

CRAZY K

Too true! :D

OK, for what it's worth, personally I don't think you can compare laptops to Cortex/Numark. They don't work in the same way. I went for Cortex, mainly because it was as near to CD players as possible. From what I hear, Numark is probably a better machine, but I didn't feel comfortable with the setup. I've watched Justin use Virtual DJ, and while he's great at it, I know I could never ever ( on this sole occasion I shall allow myself the use of the word never) work that way. I intended to use a laptop purely as a database, but having found Media Monkey to use as a ripping programme, I then found it was exactly the playout system I needed, so that will be a third channel.
Do try to visit someone on here at a gig, and see how their gear works, it really is such a matter of personal preference.

Edit: Go watch Crazy, if you wish to see how a Cortex should work. I reckon you may not be too far away.

[Johnny]

Do try to visit someone on here at a gig, and see how their gear works, it really is such a matter of personal preference.

Edit: Go watch Crazy, if you wish to see how a Cortex should work. I reckon you may not be too far away.

As you say it is really personal preference, I went and demo the denon HD2500 the other week but found the display on the screen too small for my eyesight.

I have been using pcdj on a laptop for over a year now and I like the fact the display is a lot easier for me to see. As it is with any pc playout program (well the ones I have seen).

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

As you say it is really personal preference, I went and demo the denon HD2500 the other week but found the display on the screen too small for my eyesight.

I have been using pcdj on a laptop for over a year now and I like the fact the display is a lot easier for me to see. As it is with any pc playout program (well the ones I have seen).

It's funny that people say that 'cos the size of the fonts on the Denon is the same size or actually bigger in some cases.

The only difference is with a laptop you can see the whole screen when scrolling.

[CRAZY K]

Too true! :D

OK, for what it's worth, personally I don't think you can compare laptops to Cortex/Numark. They don't work in the same way. I went for Cortex, mainly because it was as near to CD players as possible. From what I hear, Numark is probably a better machine, but I didn't feel comfortable with the setup. I've watched Justin use Virtual DJ, and while he's great at it, I know I could never ever ( on this sole occasion I shall allow myself the use of the word never) work that way. I intended to use a laptop purely as a database, but having found Media Monkey to use as a ripping programme, I then found it was exactly the playout system I needed, so that will be a third channel.
Do try to visit someone on here at a gig, and see how their gear works, it really is such a matter of personal preference.

Edit: Go watch Crazy, if you wish to see how a Cortex should work. I reckon you may not be too far away.

Yup--im near Kettering BUT most of my work is usually a long way from home.

Next Cortex job--WEST BROMWICH :eek: :eek: :eek:

CRAZY K

[Johnny]

It's funny that people say that 'cos the size of the fonts on the Denon is the same size or actually bigger in some cases.

The only difference is with a laptop you can see the whole screen when scrolling.

Must admit i do not know if the font is the same size or not, but I do know I can view around 11 tracks on my screen without having to scroll, which for the way I work and view the songs works for me.

I just did not like only being able to view 3 songs on the denon screen in one go (if you get what I mean).

Saying that if a hard drive player came out that you could link a screen up to, I would go for the harddrive player but for now untill they do, I will stick with a pc base program.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Saying that if a hard drive player came out that you could link a screen up to, I would go for the harddrive player but for now untill they do, I will stick with a pc base program.

Looks like you're a bit late then! There already is such a device (http://www.htfr.com/more-info/MR249468)

[rob1963]

To answer the question about the HCD1000 versus a laptop, common sense would suggest the Cortex is the one to go for, as it's been specifically designed for use with mobile discos, whereas a laptop has not.

[Excalibur]

As you say it is really personal preference, I went and demo the denon HD2500 the other week but found the display on the screen too small for my eyesight.

I have been using pcdj on a laptop for over a year now and I like the fact the display is a lot easier for me to see. As it is with any pc playout program (well the ones I have seen).


It's funny that people say that 'cos the size of the fonts on the Denon is the same size or actually bigger in some cases.

The only difference is with a laptop you can see the whole screen when scrolling.

Well, one nil to the Cortex then! Even I can read the writing unaided on it. :D Probably need my glasses for the lappy though. :(


Yup--im near Kettering BUT most of my work is usually a long way from home.

Next Cortex job--WEST BROMWICH :eek: :eek: :eek:

CRAZY K

Rumbled you have they? :p :D Anyway, Kettering's south of here, isn't it? :D


Looks like you're a bit late then! There already is such a device (http://www.htfr.com/more-info/MR249468)

You know I thought there might be. ;) :D :D

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

To answer the question about the HCD1000 versus a laptop, common sense would suggest the Cortex is the one to go for, as it's been specifically designed for use with mobile discos, whereas a laptop has not.

Actually, not quite true. The 00DJ for specifically designed for use with mobile discos in mind as are a lot of rack mount PCs that people build themselves.

[rob1963]

Actually, not quite true. The 00DJ for specifically designed for use with mobile discos in mind as are a lot of rack mount PCs that people build themselves.

Fair enough, but I'd suggest most DJs who use laptops for their music just use normal ones which were NOT designed for mobile discos.

[Excalibur]

To answer the question about the HCD1000 versus a laptop, common sense would suggest the Cortex is the one to go for, as it's been specifically designed for use with mobile discos, whereas a laptop has not.

I think the stress is getting to me. I'm sure I've just seen Rob recommend a Cortex!!:eek: :D

[rob1963]

I think the stress is getting to me. I'm sure I've just seen Rob recommend a Cortex!!:eek: :D

Not quite true, my good man.

I was simply answering a question asking for recommendations between the Cortex & a laptop.

Needless to say, if it had been an open question, I'd have recommended the D2!

:D

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Fair enough, but I'd suggest most DJs who use laptops for their music just use normal ones which were NOT designed for mobile discos.

And most DJs optimise their laptops and just use them for DJing.:)

[rob1963]

And most DJs optimise their laptops and just use them for DJing.:)

That's fair comment.

:)

[Excalibur]

Not quite true, my good man.

I was simply answering a question asking for recommendations between the Cortex & a laptop.

Needless to say, if it had been an open question, I'd have recommended the D2!

:D

Stop backtracking, it will soon be banner headlines " Rob recommends Cortex in U-turn shock" :D :D

[welby]

Hi there,

didnt realise this topic would fuel up such a debate. :D

A 19" rack mount pc might be a better bet than a laptop if I can find a decent one..plenty of fans in the rack and built to last. A two good 14"/15" LCD panels and off you go!

This probably seems a better way to go for me so that I have the flexibilty with digital files and the ability to play karaoke tracks when required.

Hmmmmm decisions decisions..lol

[Excalibur]

Hi there,

didnt realise this topic would fuel up such a debate. :D

A 19" rack mount pc might be a better bet than a laptop if I can find a decent one..plenty of fans in the rack and built to last. A two good 14"/15" LCD panels and off you go!

This probably seems a better way to go for me so that I have the flexibilty with digital files and the ability to play karaoke tracks when required.

Hmmmmm decisions decisions..lol

Never be surprised about what can turn into a raging debate on here. ;) :D
A rack mount seems a good idea to me also, customisable, capable of accepting a monstrous HD, and anything else you feel like bolting in! :D :D

[Tony Scott]

Hi there,

didnt realise this topic would fuel up such a debate. :D

A 19" rack mount pc might be a better bet than a laptop if I can find a decent one..plenty of fans in the rack and built to last. A two good 14"/15" LCD panels and off you go!

This probably seems a better way to go for me so that I have the flexibilty with digital files and the ability to play karaoke tracks when required.

Hmmmmm decisions decisions..lol

Rack PC all the way!!! :approve:

Mine has never been on-line , I bought it with a 60gig internal hard drive which just has the XP Operating System + PCDJ Red 5.2 installed on it. I use 2 x Seagate 500gig external HDD's which have identicle files (one as a back-up).

I like the 15" screen format, I pretty much went from Technics SL1200's to PCDJ back in 2000 so have grown with it from the early days so would not consider a Cortex or anything like it.

[CRAZY K]

Rumbled you have they? :p :D Anyway, Kettering's south of here, isn't it? :D


Nope--they just cant afford my rates:D :D :D

CRAZY K

[CRAZY K]

Rack PC all the way!!! :approve:

Mine has never been on-line , I bought it with a 60gig internal hard drive which just has the XP Operating System + PCDJ Red 5.2 installed on it. I use 2 x Seagate 500gig external HDD's which have identicle files (one as a back-up).

I like the 15" screen format, I pretty much went from Technics SL1200's to PCDJ back in 2000 so have grown with it from the early days so would not consider a Cortex or anything like it.

Presume you have to carry two screens Tony--one for back up?

Two Cortex units with integral screens (that even Excalibur can read)
are pretty portable and light in weight.

I love em:D

CRAZY K

[welby]

Rack PC all the way!!! :approve:

Mine has never been on-line , I bought it with a 60gig internal hard drive which just has the XP Operating System + PCDJ Red 5.2 installed on it. I use 2 x Seagate 500gig external HDD's which have identicle files (one as a back-up).

I like the 15" screen format, I pretty much went from Technics SL1200's to PCDJ back in 2000 so have grown with it from the early days so would not consider a Cortex or anything like it.

Hi,

I was wondering where you got the rack kit? Did you build it yourself or get from fleabay>?

Thanks

[Excalibur]

Presume you have to carry two screens Tony--one for back up?

Two Cortex units with integral screens (that even Excalibur can read)
are pretty portable and light in weight.

I love em:D

CRAZY K
Praise the Lord I can see!! ;) :D If I'm not using CD's I can dispense with my glasses. :D



Hi,

I was wondering where you got the rack kit? Did you build it yourself or get from fleabay>?

Thanks


Have a look here
http://www.avrio.co.uk/acatalog/copy_of_DS27200.html
lifted from this thread, I'm not that savvy. :(
http://www.mobilediscodirectory.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=12703

[Creature]

tried the laptop - but not for me found it boring and seemed to take the fun outa it.

demo'd the cortex and the denon in shop. altho denon better the screen was confusing and horible. if it had been split like the cortex (and normal cd headers) would probally have brought it.

but brought the cortex instead after few probs (see older threads) am now using it for around 80 - 90 of tracks selected. - also when ya get requests its so easy and quick.

Currently got a 500 gig harddrive on there with some 38000 odd songs (still going thru me cd collection) and as long as i dont use the file manager when the other side is playing is flawless.

am now looking around for another cortex not to use as spare but to integrate into mi mixer box and use 2 cortexs and me old denons :):)

[welby]

Have a look here
http://www.avrio.co.uk/acatalog/copy_of_DS27200.html
lifted from this thread, I'm not that savvy. :(

What about these for a rack mount pc?:

Dual Xeon 2.4ghz
4 Gig Ram
IDE interface
PCI slot 9 Suitable for dual monitor card?
4 x USB slots

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/HP-ProLiant-DL140-1U-Dual-Xeon-2-x-2-4Ghz-4GB-RAM_W0QQitemZ110261906777QQihZ001QQcategoryZ1484QQ ssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Wouldn't this be a better bet?

[Tony Scott]

Presume you have to carry two screens Tony--one for back up?


CRAZY K

No I've got an HP laptop that I use for the DMX Lighting software and karaoke if I get asked (god forbid :D ), this also has PCDJ on it as secondary play-out. It has about 5000 songs on the HDD ready to go plus I can plug one of the 500gig external HDD's into it if the main Rack PC fails.

I've got a Numark dual CD player in my mixer rack that's used for tertiary play-out....

...so I got back-up covered!! ;) :D.

[ppentertainments]

My cortex came this afternoon. First gig using it on friday - wedding for 200 :eek: :eek:

Obviously plenty of backup incase get into difficulty !! (here goes):D

[Jiggles]

What about these for a rack mount pc?:

Dual Xeon 2.4ghz
4 Gig Ram
IDE interface
PCI slot 9 Suitable for dual monitor card?
4 x USB slots

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/HP-ProLiant-DL140-1U-Dual-Xeon-2-x-2-4Ghz-4GB-RAM_W0QQitemZ110261906777QQihZ001QQcategoryZ1484QQ ssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Wouldn't this be a better bet?

Thats a powerful thing that! Thats for a server really.

[Excalibur]

My cortex came this afternoon. First gig using it on friday - wedding for 200 :eek: :eek:

Obviously plenty of backup incase get into difficulty !! (here goes):D

Hold on there a minute Musky!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!You can't get it ready for use in two days. It took me nearly six weeks, without checking dates, and I've still got a lot of editing and some ripping to do!! :mad: :mad:

Edit. If anyone is impressed not only by the fact that I've got an avatar , but also that it moves as well, many thanks to Justin for the original creation of it, and Callum for the animation.

[CRAZY K]

My cortex came this afternoon. First gig using it on friday - wedding for 200 :eek: :eek:

Obviously plenty of backup incase get into difficulty !! (here goes):D

Im not being rude but have you ever used this Cortex before?

If not you would be much better off NOT using it immediately but doing a dummy gig at home for a few hours until you know it inside out and you know it works perfectly--the second one I bought wouldnt work properly with the keyboard until I got a software patch from Cortex.

I am a big fan of Cortex but you still need a backtest

CRAZY K

[ppentertainments]

Hold on there a minute Musky!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!You can't get it ready for use in two days. It took me nearly six weeks, without checking dates, and I've still got a lot of editing and some ripping to do!! :mad: :mad:

Edit. If anyone is impressed not only by the fact that I've got an avatar , but also that it moves as well, many thanks to Justin for the original creation of it, and Callum for the animation.


I was already digital, using a laptop :D :D :D
Was very fussy when ripping in the first place so 99% of tags etc ok. Was a case of plugging the hard drive in turning on and playing about.

BTW : Ha Ha, I beat you :D :D

[ppentertainments]

Im not being rude but have you ever used this Cortex before?

If not you would be much better off NOT using it immediately but doing a dummy gig at home for a few hours until you know it inside out and you know it works perfectly--the second one I bought wouldnt work properly with the keyboard until I got a software patch from Cortex.

I am a big fan of Cortex but you still need a backtest

CRAZY K

have 3 days including today to 'play around'. Will also have 2 cd players and laptop into mixer so can easily go back to previous methods - am not that daft :D :D

[Excalibur]

I was already digital, using a laptop :D :D :D
Was very fussy when ripping in the first place so 99% of tags etc ok. Was a case of plugging the hard drive in turning on and playing about.

BTW : Ha Ha, I beat you :D :D

And I in turn hate you! :p :p :p :p

Seriously, I sort of guessed that might be the case, but I'm baffled as to why you'd want a Cortex if you're already laptop based? Or was it just as an extra playout system?

[ppentertainments]

The main reason is because I often use a micromax stand and using a cortex alllows me to keep things neater. Also I was never happy with the sound from a computer even with different sound cards so thought it better to buy a machine dedicated to the job.

Good luck with your ripping by the way - I know what its like, still have some cd's from home to do and have been digital over a year.

[pagan_flame]

I have an old ex-corporate refurbed Compaq laptop. Has Windows 2000, OTSDJ Boombox - and that's it. No Internet, Email, Microsoft to slow it down - I've left Windows media player on there for the days when clients give me CD's with WMV files on...

Cost less than 200 quid the lot inc. software. Never crashed ever (1 year of use), and the old Toshiba (XP, OTSDJ Turntables) never crashed once either in 2 years of use - it's now the backup laptop.

Files are on an external hard drive in case of failure / theft and are also backed up - and I have CD decks as well so I don't get bored / just in case. If the power goes off / sound limiter cuts in - my reboot time is nil, as it stays on due to the battery.

I've seen and tried many HD controllers --- I've no interest whatsoever in buying one. DJing with such a tiny screen and no keyboard / mouse is like trying to get a CD out of the case and into the decks with boxing gloves on, compared to how easy OTSDJ is to use.

Controllers which then add on keyboard / mouse - still have a titchy screen, just get a laptop in the first place! :D :beer1:

[Dragonfly]

I have an old ex-corporate refurbed Compaq laptop. Has Windows 2000, OTSDJ Boombox - and that's it. No Internet, Email, Microsoft to slow it down - I've left Windows media player on there for the days when clients give me CD's with WMV files on...

same here got 2 presario 2500 great laptops never let me down yet .

[CRAZY K]

I have an old ex-corporate refurbed Compaq laptop. Has Windows 2000, OTSDJ Boombox - and that's it. No Internet, Email, Microsoft to slow it down - I've left Windows media player on there for the days when clients give me CD's with WMV files on...

Cost less than 200 quid the lot inc. software. Never crashed ever (1 year of use), and the old Toshiba (XP, OTSDJ Turntables) never crashed once either in 2 years of use - it's now the backup laptop.

Files are on an external hard drive in case of failure / theft and are also backed up - and I have CD decks as well so I don't get bored / just in case. If the power goes off / sound limiter cuts in - my reboot time is nil, as it stays on due to the battery.

I've seen and tried many HD controllers --- I've no interest whatsoever in buying one. DJing with such a tiny screen and no keyboard / mouse is like trying to get a CD out of the case and into the decks with boxing gloves on, compared to how easy OTSDJ is to use.

Controllers which then add on keyboard / mouse - still have a titchy screen, just get a laptop in the first place! :D :beer1:

Small screen you can read with normal eyesight--what more do you need:D

CRAZY K

[ppentertainments]

Well first Cortex gig completed and to answer the question about laptop v cortex I would go with the cortex.

Pros
Better sound quality
More compact
Less setting up
Reliability
quick search and cue for requests
You 'look' more like a dj IMO - buttons to press

Cons
Hard to browse through songs.
Have to check songs sung by more than 1 artist
If searching whilst playing the same side make sure you press the right buttons, pressing enter at the wrong point will stop the song playing and cue the one you were searching.
No auto dj (like media monkey) to auto fade between songs if using a playlist.

Still a lot to learn about it but am very impressed. Main drawback was not been able to browse as you can on laptop screen. Taking laptop as well until get used to it.

[Shakermaker Promotions]

Don't want to get into the old argument again (see earlier threads regarding Cortex), but I would go for the Denon everytime! I've used the Cortex and the Denon so I think I am in a good position to judge them both.

I can't actually believe that people on here have commented that they haven't gone for the Denon because of the screen. In my opinion it is the superior bit of kit over the Cortex. I originally wanted to buy a Denon but couldn't afford it at the time and so opted for the Cortex because I got a good deal on one. It turned out to be the wrong move (as I said, take a look at earlier threads).

There are a few things that I like about the Denon...well, quite a lot actually. I like the way it has a full bass(y) sound, much more fuller than the Cortex. If you think the sound quality is good on the Cortex then you haven't heard anything yet. I also like the way it looks and all of the extra functions that you get which you can use however and whenever you like. Even if it's just pressing the filter button and turning the disc on the player when playing a dance track etc to give it that real studio effect....(good if you can't BPM Mix too). I also prefer the way that the Denon knows which side the keyboard is working on. With the Cortex, I remember that you HAD to remember to tab across or you'd make mistakes and tracks would stop. The best thing about the Denon though is the Denon DJ software that comes with it that is so easy to use and very quick aswell. I update my music everyday and yes, I am still going through all of my CD's too.

There are loads more plus points to the Denon but I won't bore you. Have I tried laptop DJing? Personally, I have never played tracks off my laptop at a function but I have used a friend of mine's at his house a while back and I couldn't get on with it. Each to their own and all that I guess.

[ppentertainments]

Must admit I probably agree with you about the denon. The one thing that did put me off was the screens (personal opinion), but the major factor was cost. With a big shopping list at moment and also being unsure of whether I would actually prefer a controller to computer, thought it better to go for the cheaper option. Have heard the denon and cortex side by side and must say did not notice much difference - might be different on a proper gig as this was in a shop.

[Excalibur]

Well first Cortex gig completed and to answer the question about laptop v cortex I would go with the cortex.

Pros
Better sound quality
More compact
Less setting up
Reliability
quick search and cue for requests
You 'look' more like a dj IMO - buttons to press

Cons
Hard to browse through songs.
Have to check songs sung by more than 1 artist
If searching whilst playing the same side make sure you press the right buttons, pressing enter at the wrong point will stop the song playing and cue the one you were searching.
No auto dj (like media monkey) to auto fade between songs if using a playlist.

Still a lot to learn about it but am very impressed. Main drawback was not been able to browse as you can on laptop screen. Taking laptop as well until get used to it.

The info button is your friend with multiple song titles ( says the man who played Sandstorm by Cast last night, cos he didn't check that it was Darude!:o ) I regard the laptop as vital, I had punters searching on it last night being very impressed. The only two downsides with it for me are the possibility as you say of searching on the playing deck and changing the track by mistake, and the browsing difficulty. The first I'm not sure, the seond is cured by the laptop. Glad to hear you like it. It really does make you look like a "proper" DJ. ;) :D :D :D ( I've had mine disconnect from the HD when unplugging other items. Just watch out for that)


Don't want to get into the old argument again (see earlier threads regarding Cortex), but I would go for the Denon everytime! I've used the Cortex and the Denon so I think I am in a good position to judge them both.

I can't actually believe that people on here have commented that they haven't gone for the Denon because of the screen. In my opinion it is the superior bit of kit over the Cortex. I originally wanted to buy a Denon but couldn't afford it at the time and so opted for the Cortex because I got a good deal on one. It turned out to be the wrong move (as I said, take a look at earlier threads).

There are a few things that I like about the Denon...well, quite a lot actually. I like the way it has a full bass(y) sound, much more fuller than the Cortex. If you think the sound quality is good on the Cortex then you haven't heard anything yet. I also like the way it looks and all of the extra functions that you get which you can use however and whenever you like. Even if it's just pressing the filter button and turning the disc on the player when playing a dance track etc to give it that real studio effect....(good if you can't BPM Mix too). I also prefer the way that the Denon knows which side the keyboard is working on. With the Cortex, I remember that you HAD to remember to tab across or you'd make mistakes and tracks would stop. The best thing about the Denon though is the Denon DJ software that comes with it that is so easy to use and very quick aswell. I update my music everyday and yes, I am still going through all of my CD's too.

There are loads more plus points to the Denon but I won't bore you. Have I tried laptop DJing? Personally, I have never played tracks off my laptop at a function but I have used a friend of mine's at his house a while back and I couldn't get on with it. Each to their own and all that I guess.

Points in order.
Screen: There appears to be many of us who simply want two separate screens, because it has always been done that way, and/or it makes it more intuitive to use.
Sound: I haven't heard or tried a Denon, so can't comment fully, but I have no shortage of bass with mine. Last night with the bigger Class-D's, I had almost all the bass off the mixer. If the Denon's better, then it must be impressive.
Tabbing across: Here is the Achilles heel of the Cortex, you simply have to train yourself to hit the tab button straight after you hit play. Must have a play on a Denon, see how that works.
Software: Cortex manager is very basic, and does what it has to do well enough, but no bells and whistles. :(

Laptop: I've saved this one to the end, light blue touchpaper and retire! :eek:

This must be the Dinosaur in me refusing to die, but I have seen people like Justin using nought but a laptop , and making an excellent job of it ( and recently I've seen someone at the opposite end of the scale showing why the laptop can be such a dangerous tool) but for the life of me, I still believe
" It's a Disco Jim, but not as we know it! " To all the lads who use them week in week out and obviously make an excellent job, Penmare, Tony Scott et al, more power to your mice lads, but it's just not for me as a main system. I'll stick to the Cortex for now.

[ppentertainments]

[QUOTE=Excalibur;249100]The info button is your friend with multiple song titles ( says the man who played Sandstorm by Cast last night, cos he didn't check that it was Darude!:o ) I regard the laptop as vital, I had punters searching on it last night being very impressed. The only two downsides with it for me are the possibility as you say of searching on the playing deck and changing the track by mistake, and the browsing difficulty. The first I'm not sure, the seond is cured by the laptop. Glad to hear you like it. It really does make you look like a "proper" DJ. ;) :D :D :D ( I've had mine disconnect from the HD when unplugging other items. Just watch out for that)

\QUOTE]

Yep look like a real dj and even using headphones now so will have to unsubscribe to the 'no headphone' group.

The info button is good, its just remembering everything, (practise !!!)

The browsing is the big downside and like you am still taking a laptop.

Hows the ripping getting on ??

[Excalibur]

Yep look like a real dj and even using headphones now so will have to unsubscribe to the 'no headphone' group.

The info button is good, its just remembering everything, (practise !!!)

The browsing is the big downside and like you am still taking a laptop.

Hows the ripping getting on ??

Info, headphones, play, tab. Stick with that, you can't go wrong.
I think you'll always take the laptop, unless you find a better and easier database.
The ripping? I've done enough to go on the road, but I'm looking forward to Winter, so I can get everything finished, and edited. I have a feeling that it may be a Forth Road Bridge- When I get to the end,m I'll have to go to the beginning, and start again!:D

[rob1963]

Hard to browse through songs.


It's easy to browse through songs with the Numark.


Have to check songs sung by more than 1 artist

Not with the Numark, as it shows artists AND titles.


If searching whilst playing the same side make sure you press the right buttons, pressing enter at the wrong point will stop the song playing and cue the one you were searching.

Not a problem with the Numark. You just go into search mode & do all the searching you want without worrying about having to tab to avoid stoppping the song that's currently playing.



No auto dj (like media monkey) to auto fade between songs if using a playlist.


I believe the Numark DOES have this feature.

Then you have to consider the Numark's full width screen & brilliant crate facility as well.

The moral of the story is that the Denon is not the ONLY good alternative to the Cortex!

:D

[CRAZY K]

It's easy to browse through songs with the Numark.



Not with the Numark, as it shows artists AND titles.



Not a problem with the Numark. You just go into search mode & do all the searching you want without worrying about having to tab to avoid stoppping the song that's currently playing.



I believe the Numark DOES have this feature.

Then you have to consider the Numark's full width screen & brilliant crate facility as well.

The moral of the story is that the Denon is not the ONLY good alternative to the Cortex!

:D

On getting the correct version of any tune with Cortex all you do is go to Artist first--then select the track.

If its the type of tune that has several versions--dont type in the track.

I must admit I made a mistake with Hi Ho Silver Lining--I though Jeff Becks was the only version I had---nope--Black Lace--no one noticed:D

CRAZY K

[ppentertainments]

It's easy to browse through songs with the Numark.



Not with the Numark, as it shows artists AND titles.



Not a problem with the Numark. You just go into search mode & do all the searching you want without worrying about having to tab to avoid stoppping the song that's currently playing.



I believe the Numark DOES have this feature.

Then you have to consider the Numark's full width screen & brilliant crate facility as well.

The moral of the story is that the Denon is not the ONLY good alternative to the Cortex!

:D

So your still undecided about the numark are you rob ??? :D :D :D

[Excalibur]

It's easy to browse through songs with the Numark.
as it shows artists AND titles.

Not a problem with the Numark. You just go into search mode & do all the searching you want without worrying about having to tab to avoid stoppping the song that's currently playing.

I believe the Numark DOES have this feature.

Then you have to consider the Numark's full width screen & brilliant crate facility as well.

The moral of the story is that the Denon is not the ONLY good alternative to the Cortex!

:D

Seriously, don't think any of us ever said it was. I know the Numark is a fine piece of kit, but on the admittedly limited and lacking demo I had of both machines, I couldn't see myself using the Numark happily. The Cortex made sense to me even before I pressed a button. Only personal preference, not an exhaustive and in-depth long term comparison I know, but there it is.


On getting the correct version of any tune with Cortex all you do is go to Artist first--then select the track.

If its the type of tune that has several versions--dont type in the track.

I must admit I made a mistake with Hi Ho Silver Lining--I though Jeff Becks was the only version I had---nope--Black Lace--no one noticed:D

CRAZY K

Good advice there, what a shame some of us often ignore it at our peril! ;) :D


So your still undecided about the numark are you rob ??? :D :D :D
Nah mate. He's just worried now there's only him and Vectis with the Numark. Everybody else is happy with the cheap and cheerful Cortex, or the Rolls Royce Denon. Poor old Rob's in no man's land. Whistling in the dark to keep his spirits up. ;) ;) :D :D

[Shakermaker Promotions]

The first thing I noticed when using the Denon at a function was the bass that it puts out. I also had to really turn down the bass on the mixer and I took bass bins with me too to that particular function that really weren't worth using in the end. The screen doesn't bother me personally and as quoted above by Crazy K, I don't tend to get problems with playing the wrong version of the song as if I look up say 'Tainted Love', I have a number of different versions by different people and extended versions etc...I can usually tell which is which as when you tab down the list, the times change and if I still can't tell then I just press the ID Info Tag button (or whatever it is) and it tells me exactly what version is it.

With the updates etc, I am sure Denon will have loads more goodies in the pipeline. I've had people come up to me and comment on the look of it etc and one comment the other day which I found really good was that maybe they should have made the screen adjustable, as in...you can flip it so it's almost upright rather than having to lean over it (if you have it in a flightcase like I have).

[rob1963]

So your still undecided about the numark are you rob ??? :D :D :D


Nah mate. He's just worried now there's only him and Vectis with the Numark.

And just the other dozen or so forum members who use them!

:D :D :D

[CRAZY K]

And just the other dozen or so forum members who use them!

:D :D :D

Names???
:D :D :D :D :D :D

Must go now--off to a gig in West Bromwich with the Cortex--using a playlist:D :D :D :D :D :D

CRAZY K

[Excalibur]

Nah mate. He's just worried now there's only him and Vectis with the Numark. Everybody else is happy with the cheap and cheerful Cortex, or the Rolls Royce Denon. Poor old Rob's in no man's land. Whistling in the dark to keep his spirits up. ;) ;) :D :D


And just the other dozen or so forum members who use them!

:D :D :D

I refuse to acept that premise without documentary evidence and incontrovertible proof to back it up.;) ;) ;) :D :D :D :D

Edit:

Well first Cortex gig completed and to answer the question about laptop v cortex I would go with the cortex.

No auto dj (like media monkey) to auto fade between songs if using a playlist.

Still a lot to learn about it but am very impressed. Main drawback was not been able to browse as you can on laptop screen. Taking laptop as well until get used to it.

Go into Setup, it's in the searches screen, below
Playlists
File Browser
Setup Menu.

In there there's an autofade feature. I think I've used it on occasion, but never on purpose. Hope that helps.

[ppentertainments]

Edit:


Go into Setup, it's in the searches screen, below
Playlists
File Browser
Setup Menu.

In there there's an autofade feature. I think I've used it on occasion, but never on purpose. Hope that helps.

Cheers mate will have a look. The only thing I have found so far is a fade out which still leaves gaps between tracks. Just finished second outing with the cortex and away to the third now so its getting a good run out. Will have a look at functions on mon when nothing on.

[Creature]

Not with the Numark, as it shows artists AND titles.


easy to gert around

when I converted all my songs on the Title bit added "Artist - Song Title Year" (Norman Geenbaum - Spirit In The Sky 1970).

in all honesty I didnt do this to start of with but after listening to comments on here about Media monkey used that to convert tags.

Also have a small laptop that i use for database - with media monkey you can export to excel spreadsheet and tehn just use search facility. or if ya brainy like my wife she added a seach engine :):) in fact we have decided laptop just to big and am thinking of getting one of these "ASUS Ultra Portable PC" (http://www.firebox.com/product/2034/ASUS-Ultra-Portable-PC).

with this set up you dont need to use playlist or file browser or artist/song seach just type in all or part or and it finds them, also makes themed nights a lot easier as you can just type in teh info you want on either the cortex or the database and its there:):)