Help/Advice Required [Archive] - Mobile Disco Directory Forum

NKR

27-12-2009, 12:54 PM

Hi chaps

Looking at adding a Denon DNHD2500 (or a cortex) to the system to go digital. (just out of interest does anyone know if the DND4000 CD draw works with the HD2500 like the 4500 draws do.

Questions for those in the know.

I am looking for an external HDD and have been looking at Western Digital or Seagate drives at CPC. Any advice on the most reliable drive would be welcom.

I also need a usb HUB. Will need a powered one as no lap top to be attached as yet.

Next question is does anyone use the DNHD2500 with a lap top and DJ sofware. If so what would you recommend from a software point of view. PCDJ/ Traktor. Also any lap top recommendations in terms of speed, brand, etc. I want to keep it as cheap as possible.

Joining the modern age and leaving my now seven cases of CD's behind. Well cutting down to 1 or 2.

Thanks chaps, you help is much appreciated.

yourdj

27-12-2009, 01:10 PM

i use a denon dnhd2500 with Serato. I have burnt the time codes and can use it as a controller and as a hd player. I would simply go for 8gb sticks rather than a hardrive.

Another option is a vestax controller and software. VERY portable and very effective. i think they come with itch?

cheaper option is the numark stuff.

Don't waste your time buying a CD draw as you will stop using it within a short space of time.

Any questions please ask.

Solitaire Events Ltd

27-12-2009, 01:13 PM

Hi chaps

Looking at adding a Denon DNHD2500 (or a cortex) to the system to go digital. (just out of interest does anyone know if the DND4000 CD draw works with the HD2500 like the 4500 draws do.

Nope.

Next question is does anyone use the DNHD2500 with a lap top and DJ sofware.

Just to let you know, if you do use the HD2500 as a midi controller, the screen doesn't work on it, you have to use the screen on your PC/laptop.

Shakermaker Promotions

27-12-2009, 01:20 PM

I use the Denon HD2500 and would fully recommend it. I used a Cortex before (long story) and was unlucky to get a unit from a dodgy batch. Therefore it knocked my confidence altogeather with the Cortex brand. The unit was easy enough to use but in MY opinion, it was not in the same league as the Denon HD2500.

I have 2 x powered Seagate 320GB external HD's connected to a powered USB hub. (I think it's a Belkin).

Regarding the CD drawers, go for it. You will have CD backup there in the same flightcase should you need it. I have seperate Pioneer CDJ's for backup so I haven't forked out the dosh for the drawers.

One last thing - As I mentioned with the Cortex, I was unlucky and had a dodgy unit. It let me down on 2 occasions during big functions and I felt like an idiot. It knocked my confidence at the time. I went with it though and kept using the CDJ's aswell until I got the Denon because I could'nt trust the Cortex to work 100%. I have a mate who purchased a Numark D2 and has said the same kind of experience...(sorry Rob). With the Denon, I have 100% confidence in it and the only reason I continue to take CDJ's with me is because I still don't have everything on the HD's.

NKR

27-12-2009, 01:52 PM

yourdj

27-12-2009, 02:10 PM

Thanks thats really helpful and answered every question.

I want the Denon as it will site well with DND4000 CD player and DNX900 mixer.

Seagate drives it is then and a powered usb Hub.

Cheers chaps. Will let you know how I get on.

Thanks.

I would def suggest a stick too just incase (no moving parts or power requirements). Get the best hd you can get :)

I have a really neat case for it all which is very good (apart from the wires at the back:

http://www.yourdj.co.uk/IMAGES/yourdj1.jpg

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_044PTfUkGaA/SeIBwJ4f6ZI/AAAAAAAABlA/2lNEvvnurSI/s320/100_0674.jpg

rob1963

27-12-2009, 02:15 PM

I have a mate who purchased a Numark D2 and has said the same kind of experience...(sorry Rob).

No need to apologise, Gary. Your friend was clearly unlucky. Maybe he got a faulty one like you did with the Cortex. It happens.

After 25 years in the business, my D2 has been the most sturdy & reliable playout system I've had.

NKR

27-12-2009, 02:21 PM

I would def suggest a stick too just incase (no moving parts or power requirements). Get the best hd you can get :)

I have a really neat case for it all which is very good (apart from the wires at the back:

Sounds like a sensible plan. Will get a couple of 8gig sticks and upload my main sets onto them.

Any advice on what sticks to get. In other words what do you use and I will follow.

I am actually quite looking forward to going digital. Thanks to the forum it is a much easier step as lots of good experience from you chaps.

Solitaire Events Ltd

27-12-2009, 02:26 PM

I would def suggest a stick too just incase (no moving parts or power requirements). Get the best hd you can get :)

Does your Mac have a solid state drive then? ;)

I have a really neat case for it all which is very good (apart from the wires at the back:

So not neat really then....:D

I stand corrected, it seems you can use the DN-4000 drawers. :o

Vectis

27-12-2009, 04:49 PM

No need to apologise, Gary. Your friend was clearly unlucky. Maybe he got a faulty one like you did with the Cortex. It happens.

After 25 years in the business, my D2 has been the most sturdy & reliable playout system I've had.

My d2 has only made me switch to backup once in over two years. It hit a seriously corrupt mp3 file and took so long trying load it that the previous track ran out. Rebooted during backup track and all good. Removed and re-downloaded offending track offline. Sorted.

CRAZY K

27-12-2009, 05:27 PM

My d2 has only made me switch to backup once in over two years. It hit a seriously corrupt mp3 file and took so long trying load it that the previous track ran out. Rebooted during backup track and all good. Removed and re-downloaded offending track offline. Sorted.

My only problem with my Cortex (3 years now) has been with ONE corrupted file which caused a problem ONCE--bit like Martin in this post.

Certainly Denon is in a different league---its also in a different PRICE league;)

If you want a bog standard play out with no frills--Cortex---if you want more options Denon--D2 not available now?

Hard drives have done me well over 3 years--Seagate all the way :thumbs_up:

I have just received an 120gb I pod for Xmas and thats got me thinking the Rob James method might be a way of avoiding the heavy Seagate HD and getting lightweight access to my collection. ;)

CRAZY K

Penfold42

27-12-2009, 06:01 PM

Questions for those in the know.

I am looking for an external HDD and have been looking at Western Digital or Seagate drives at CPC. Any advice on the most reliable drive would be welcom.

I also need a usb HUB. Will need a powered one as no lap top to be attached as yet.

Next question is does anyone use the DNHD2500 with a lap top and DJ sofware. If so what would you recommend from a software point of view. PCDJ/ Traktor. Also any lap top recommendations in terms of speed, brand, etc. I want to keep it as cheap as possible.

Joining the modern age and leaving my now seven cases of CD's behind. Well cutting down to 1 or 2.

Thanks chaps, you help is much appreciated.

Denon comes with a 40gb hard drive built in - for a powered one I use Freecom - which every takes your pick, some people use a Maxtor, again HUB whatever you want really. :)

I don't use CD's and customers are told this well in advance - saves any problems.

Creature

27-12-2009, 06:13 PM

I use a cortex infact I now have 2 of them and for what i do they are great. I also had a dodgy one to start of with, but after dealing with cortex (once i got beyond tehre crappy helpdesk at the time) the problem was very soon diagnosed and a replacement unit on its way with apromise of 100% refund if i wasnt happy.

that was over a year ago now and wouldnt swap it for anything else (but then as i dont need the options the donnon has why would I).

I used to use a harddrive (still take it a sbackup) but now use a 32 gig mem stick i brought from Argos a few months back - and altho i am currently struggleling with teh 30 gig limit on files (rest needed for cortex database) it is far better than the harddrive.

We all have different requirements for our setups and the way ion which we use them. My advise would be to goto your loacl disco shop and see if you can demo each of them to see which suits you

Spirits High

27-12-2009, 06:41 PM

Hi chaps

Looking at adding a Denon DNHD2500 (or a cortex) to the system to go digital. (just out of interest does anyone know if the DND4000 CD draw works with the HD2500 like the 4500 draws do.
Thanks chaps, you help is much appreciated.

Nope.

Got to disagree there Daz, I used the 4000 draws with my 2500 for ages with no problems at all. only stopped using them because they went to Creature :D

I use a Western digital powered HD and a powered hub on mine.

Solitaire Events Ltd

27-12-2009, 07:54 PM

Got to disagree there Daz, I used the 4000 draws with my 2500 for ages with no problems at all. only stopped using them because they went to Creature :D

Another person who didn't read the whole thread....:bang:

NKR

27-12-2009, 08:06 PM

Another person who didn't read the whole thread....:bang:

Yes but two heads are better than one and both of you have now confirmed I can save space by shelving my DND4000 head unit and attaching my drawers (ooh err misses) to the HD2500 (as long as I can get one at the trade price I have been quoted :) )

I have to thank the forum for saving me so much time faffing about trying to find answers and possibly getting it wrong at great expense and wasted time.

You guys rock :corabarsteve:

Excalibur

27-12-2009, 08:11 PM

Powered hub is a must. Hard drives theoretically are fussy, but as long as you use WD/Seagate/Maxtor ( which I think share a common ancestry :confused: ) few problems arise. Powered drives also, for preference. Scrupulous tagging really helps.

Cortex for simplicity, Denon for total reliability and utter incomprehensibility to Cortex users, Numark DDS if you like pretty colours, and the facility to queue tracks up.

Penfold42

27-12-2009, 08:17 PM

Cortex for simplicity, Denon for total reliability and utter incomprehensibility to Cortex users, Numark DDS if you like pretty colours, and the facility to queue tracks up.

:agree:

...but over the last few weeks have learnt a few more tricks the Denon can do which the Cortex really would stuggle....i'm not talking spelling Peter...:ner:

Excalibur

27-12-2009, 09:54 PM

:agree:

...but over the last few weeks have learnt a few more tricks the Denon can do which the Cortex really would stuggle....i'm not talking spelling Peter...:ner:

And it still can't search as fast. ;) :p
Right, there's no argument the Denon is a far superior piece of kit, never in dispute. If I were going to replace a Cortex, I'd get a Numark though, not a Denon. It just does more of what I want, and can do.

Penfold42

27-12-2009, 09:56 PM

And it still can't search as fast. ;) :p
Right, there's no argument the Denon is a far superior piece of kit, never in dispute. If I were going to replace a Cortex, I'd get a Numark though, not a Denon. It just does more of what I want, and can do.

Each to thier own....and what your happy with. :)

rob1963

27-12-2009, 10:10 PM

If I were going to replace a Cortex, I'd get a Numark though, not a Denon. It just does more of what I want, and can do.

:bowdown:

Solitaire Events Ltd

27-12-2009, 11:04 PM

Yes but two heads are better than one

Yes, I was just making the point that later in the thread I admitted to being wrong and Paul appeared not to read that post and tell me I was incorrect anyway.

A pet hate of mine...people who don't bother to read the whole thread and then comment on a post.

CRAZY K

28-12-2009, 04:16 PM

Powered hub is a must.

Why?:confused:

Never used one.

Never had a problem with Cortex/ Seagate HD.

Is it for a back up drive?

I have Mini disc as immediate back up.

CRAZY K

Excalibur

28-12-2009, 05:03 PM

Why?:confused:

Never used one.

Never had a problem with Cortex/ Seagate HD.

Is it for a back up drive?

I have Mini disc as immediate back up.

CRAZY K

It's cos I've become a disciple of the Vectis School of back up and built in duplication. Let's say the power supply went south on the seagate, a powered hub might rescue the situation. Might. Also, it might allow the use of a unpowered drive. Might, only might. Some work, some don't. I'm not prepared to risk it with the main one, it's belt and braces.

NKR

28-12-2009, 05:05 PM

It's cos I've become a disciple of the Vectis School of back up and built in duplication. Let's say the power supply went south on the seagate, a powered hub might rescue the situation. Might. Also, it might allow the use of a unpowered drive. Might, only might. Some work, some don't. I'm not prepared to risk it with the main one, it's belt and braces.

For an extra tenner for the powered version I will go powered for that reason.

Spirits High

28-12-2009, 06:12 PM

I stand corrected, it seems you can use the DN-4000 drawers. :o

Yes, I was just making the point that later in the thread I admitted to being wrong and Paul appeared not to read that post and tell me I was incorrect anyway.

A pet hate of mine...people who don't bother to read the whole thread and then comment on a post.

Apologies, for missing that line on the bottom of a reply. I'll go and stand in the corner and give myself a jolly good thrashing

Penfold42

28-12-2009, 06:20 PM

I'll go and stand in the corner and give myself a jolly good thrashing

Form a line chaps....:D :D :D :D

NKR

31-12-2009, 08:25 AM

Okay.

Now I can't find any usb had drives that are mains powered that are under 1tb. Anyone know where I can find a mains powered usb hdd of around 250gb or should I just get a mains powered usb hub and a bus powered hard disk.

I will be getting a couple of flash drives too.

Thanks again.

Corabar Steve

31-12-2009, 08:59 AM

PC World, CPC, E-buyer.........

NKR

31-12-2009, 09:10 AM

PC World, CPC, E-buyer.........

Tried them all. The only AC powered ones they have are 1tb.

Corabar Steve

31-12-2009, 09:24 AM

You aren't looking hard enough then.

A quick glance found at least 3 that would suit you. (some that are externally powered don't show it in their spec, you'll have to look on the manufacturer's sites)

Corabar Steve

31-12-2009, 09:31 AM

Try googleing Maxtor one touch, they have some good drives that should fit your needs

Creature

31-12-2009, 09:44 AM

pc world at peterboro have a few 350 gigs left or did have before xmas

NKR

31-12-2009, 09:47 AM

Okay still not having any joy working out what is powered by what. Why don't they just put it in the sodding spec.

Flash drives it is for me I think or I am going to end up wasting hundreds on :Censored: usb hard drives.

Why can't they just spec things simply.

Heres your capacity -
Heres your Cache -
Heres your rotation Speed -
Heres you power source -

Is it just me or would that not be simpler.

Creature

31-12-2009, 09:54 AM

Flash drives it is for me I think

Argos do a 32 gig one sub £100.00 ive been using it all this month and apart from 1 file that didnt copy accross properly am really happy with it.

Amazon do a 64 gig stick for just over £100.00 - this is my next one :):)

the only problem i can see is if ya go produb and you keep all the tracks on each album you may want more than 1 of these. so a powered hub is also gonna have to be on the cards.

Excalibur

31-12-2009, 11:59 AM

Try googleing Maxtor one touch, they have some good drives that should fit your needs
I have a one touch4 which is fine. Bulky but fine.

Okay still not having any joy working out what is powered by what. Why don't they just put it in the sodding spec.

Flash drives it is for me I think or I am going to end up wasting hundreds on :Censored: usb hard drives.

Why can't they just spec things simply.

Heres your capacity -
Heres your Cache -
Heres your rotation Speed -
Heres you power source -

Is it just me or would that not be simpler.

http://www.pcworld.co.uk/martprd/store/pcw_page.jsp?BV_SessionID=@@@@1679131299.126226270 9@@@@&BV_EngineID=ccckadejffhejffcflgceggdhhmdfok.0&page=Product&fm=null&sm=null&tm=null&sku=622601&category_oid=#productInformationSection

Seagate Expansions 500GB External Desktop USB 2.0 Hard: Amazon.co.uk: Electronics & Photo

Yeah mate, it would be sensible, but when do they ever do sensible? :bang:
Go into a store, and ask to open a few boxes. Look for a mains adaptor. I once nearly smacked a PCW person, cos I'd rung up three times and asked if a drive had a mains cable. Nay, nay, and thrice nay. So I ordered online elsewhere. I had to go into PCW for something else, looked at the drives, asked if they had an adaptor, assistant opens it up, lo and behold, mains adaptor falls out! :bang: Grrrr.

NKR

31-12-2009, 12:23 PM

Thanks again Mr Excalibur.

The Denon is here and as expected came with no software and no manual.

But it works - oh yes it works. Used the quick start manual they stuck in to get about forty tracks onto it to test it and it is currently playing away in the background as I type, so it works.

It does say I will need to use the software going forward so going to try and register it now and see if I can dowload it. Darren I may take you up on the need for the firmware (whatever that actually is) if I don't get anyware registering it.

Powered USB Hub - Check
USB Keyboard (which lights up for dark conditions) - Check
Flash Drives - Going out for them this afternoon once Mrs DJ gets back from buying more bloody food from M&S.
USB Hdd - Thanks to Mr Excalibur I should be able to sort that.

Here starts the adventure. :beer1:

Solitaire Events Ltd

31-12-2009, 12:44 PM

Thanks again Mr Excalibur.

The Denon is here and as expected came with no software and no manual.

But it works - oh yes it works. Used the quick start manual they stuck in to get about forty tracks onto it to test it and it is currently playing away in the background as I type, so it works.

It does say I will need to use the software going forward so going to try and register it now and see if I can dowload it. Darren I may take you up on the need for the firmware (whatever that actually is) if I don't get anyware registering it.

Right...

The essential software you need is the firmware which is on the unit otherwise it won't work. What you need is the latest version which is the most stable. I can send you this if you need it - PM me your email address.

The software I suspect you are talking about is Denon Music Manager which is one way of getting your tunes on and off of the unit. I just copy and paste and find it a lot easier.

NKR

31-12-2009, 12:55 PM

Right...

The essential software you need is the firmware which is on the unit otherwise it won't work. What you need is the latest version which is the most stable. I can send you this if you need it - PM me your email address.

The software I suspect you are talking about is Denon Music Manager which is one way of getting your tunes on and off of the unit. I just copy and paste and find it a lot easier.

It appears to be working as I have dragged 40 odd tracks over earlier and it is busy crossfading in the background and sounds okay to me. It has been out of its box in the past for Denon trade show, so they must have installed the firmware. It communicated with the laptop straight away.

I will see how I get on with getting my tracks onto and will PM you if I need any help with software etc.

Many thanks all.

Corabar Steve

31-12-2009, 01:53 PM

The software I suspect you are talking about is Denon Music Manager which is one way of getting your tunes on and off of the unit. I just copy and paste and find it a lot easier.
DDJMM is also needed to create the database of tracks on the HDD.

Excalibur

31-12-2009, 03:02 PM

Right...

The essential software you need is the firmware which is on the unit otherwise it won't work. What you need is the latest version which is the most stable. I can send you this if you need it - PM me your email address.

The software I suspect you are talking about is Denon Music Manager which is one way of getting your tunes on and off of the unit. I just copy and paste and find it a lot easier.

DDJMM is also needed to create the database of tracks on the HDD.

Darren and Steve are now using a foreign (to me ) language. ;) :D Don't expect me to be of any help with this stuff. :o :o :o :o

NKR

01-01-2010, 02:57 AM

DDJMM is also needed to create the database of tracks on the HDD.

Thats what I think is missing, but I should be able to download if I can register the unit. It has all its serial numbers etc on, so will give it a go in the morning and give Denon a call if there is an issue.

I will shout for help if there is used food hitting the fan.

Solitaire Events Ltd

01-01-2010, 12:45 PM

DDJMM is also needed to create the database of tracks on the HDD.

Not needed. I don't use it.

NKR

01-01-2010, 03:38 PM

Cool thanks Darren.

Seagate Expansion 500gb drive sat next to me. Argos £49.99 - happy bunny with that and got a free 2gb flash drive, so that will do for moving stuff about.

Just tidied up my Laptop HD which has 480 tracks on it and they are off to hard drive. Then ripping time.

cosmo1200

01-01-2010, 04:20 PM

NKR

01-01-2010, 04:24 PM

got a disc with the dns 1200's music management, tried a memory stick I had lying about and had to format that that with one of the cd players, then had to 'transport' files on the laptop to the stick, cut and paste would have been easier if it would allow me..

I managed to copy straight from laptop to the HD2500. I just plugged the usb in, laptop recognised it and showed its hard drive as an external drive. Copy / Paste / Try 2500 / Bobs your uncle.

I hope it really is that easy going forward, but I have 45 tracks on it already. All I need now is a glitter ball and we got ourselves a disco (so long as you only require tracks from late 2008 to mid 2009.)

DJ Jules

02-01-2010, 08:54 AM

I hope it really is that easy going forward, but I have 45 tracks on it already. All I need now is a glitter ball and we got ourselves a disco (so long as you only require tracks from late 2008 to mid 2009.)

Yeah, and I hope all your gigs are only 2hrs long :D :D

Julian

Corabar Steve

02-01-2010, 09:17 AM

Not needed. I don't use it.
So how do you create the database for the 2500 to read?

Any time I've attached a drive without using DDJMM first I just get

Track 1
Track 2
etc....

Excalibur

02-01-2010, 09:56 AM

So how do you create the database for the 2500 to read?

Any time I've attached a drive without using DDJMM first I just get

Track 1
Track 2
etc....

I'm in over my head here, but if you use the 2500/cortex/numark to index the HD, rather than a laptop, won't this create a database without the software? ( and take forever. ;) I know Crazy K uses his Cortex to index his library.

Solitaire Events Ltd

02-01-2010, 11:34 AM

So how do you create the database for the 2500 to read?

Any time I've attached a drive without using DDJMM first I just get

Track 1
Track 2
etc....

Whether it has anything to do with using an external, I don't know, but I use an internal and just copy and paste my tracks across in the structure that I already have and then after everything is in, I update or create a database.

Ah!

I think what you need to do it attach the drive and then go into utilities to create your database.

NKR

02-01-2010, 11:42 AM

Whether it has anything to do with using an external, I don't know, but I use an internal and just copy and paste my tracks across in the structure that I already have and then after everything is in, I update or create a database.

Ah!

I think what you need to do it attach the drive and then go into utilities to create your database.

OKay chaps I am going to need to know how to do this as I only have a 40 gig internal hdd on the Denon. Now I intend to use an external drive and flash drives so getting the database to read the tagging on them is going to be important.

I have so far downloaded a free version of media monkey so I can check and edit my tagging, but if the Denon is not going to read it off an external drive without having used its music manager software I am going to need to know that before starting to fill up the said drive.

I already know I can drag and drop to the Denon straight from the laptop and it picks the tracks up fine as Darren said. Its this external business I need to sort out.

Tell you what I will try and register my product and see if I can download the Denon Music Manager.

I know I keep saying it but without this place I would never dared try this, so I am eternally gratefully to you all.

Excalibur

02-01-2010, 11:48 AM

Pe7e

02-01-2010, 01:30 PM

Its this external business I need to sort out.

Tell you what I will try and register my product and see if I can download the Denon Music Manager.

I know I keep saying it but without this place I would never dared try this, so I am eternally gratefully to you all.

I'm almost certain MM can be downloaded without regestering your player, regarding the track ID tags, these can easily be edited with the MM software.

Solitaire Events Ltd

02-01-2010, 01:35 PM

I'm almost certain MM can be downloaded without regestering your player

I agree and I think I might have it saved somewhere if there is a problem downloading it.

Excalibur

02-01-2010, 02:04 PM

I agree and I think I might have it saved somewhere if there is a problem downloading it.

Since I haven't got a product to register I didn't go far in, but I think this is the place to start maybe?

http://www.denondj.com/firmware.aspx?ProductId=79

NKR

02-01-2010, 03:08 PM

Excalibur

02-01-2010, 03:17 PM

Okay getting there. Calling all HD2500 users. What version should my firmware be? I have checked the version number on mine as per the Denon instructions, what version no does yours show?

I have also managed to download Music Manager so thats good news.

Just correct firmware version to confirm and shoud be well on my way.

I can't respond to this, as I'm not a Denon user. :( :( :o :o :o :o

However, as far as I know, v1400. Also, if it's v1300, upgrade it quick, cos I believe 1300's a bad 'un.

NKR

02-01-2010, 03:20 PM

I can't respond to this, as I'm not a Denon user. :( :( :o :o :o :o

However, as far as I know, v1400. Also, if it's v1300, upgrade it quick, cos I believe 1300's a bad 'un.

Errr - its v1004, which I believe is the original firmware version it was released with.

Excalibur

02-01-2010, 03:32 PM

Errr - its v1004, which I believe is the original firmware version it was released with.

Well, assuming we're both reading the same numbers, I'd try to get 1400 installed. I assume the procedure is tha same as cortex/numark, you download the version to a stick, and follow instructions. This thread appears to confirm most of what I said, it's current. Neil, you may soon be very familiar with this forum. ;) ;)

http://www.denondjforums.com/forum/index.php?f=33&t=11673&rb_v=viewtopic

Particularly
http://www.denondjforums.com/forum/index.php?f=28&rb_v=viewforum

And especially this.
http://www.denondjforums.com/forum/index.php?f=28&t=11552&rb_v=viewtopic

NKR

02-01-2010, 03:46 PM

Well, assuming we're both reading the same numbers, I'd try to get 1400 installed. I assume the procedure is tha same as cortex/numark, you download the version to a stick, and follow instructions. This thread appears to confirm most of what I said, it's current. Neil, you may soon be very familiar with this forum. ;) ;)

http://www.denondjforums.com/forum/index.php?f=33&t=11673&rb_v=viewtopic

Particularly
http://www.denondjforums.com/forum/index.php?f=28&rb_v=viewforum

And especially this.
http://www.denondjforums.com/forum/index.php?f=28&t=11552&rb_v=viewtopic

Oh no I am lost already - can I not just run it off version no 1004 and be done with it. What was wrong with Version 1004.

I know what Music Manager is. I realise I should try and get version 1400 on my unit. However what the flipping monkey cheese is ASIO Driver?

Sorry if this thread is getting boring for everyone now, but it may actually be some use to anyone else wishing to follow the Digital Route.

Version 1400 is now installed - product registered really easy.

Just needed to copy the hd2500.bin file to a usb drive and follow the instructions in the read me file. Its actually easy when you know how.

Excalibur

02-01-2010, 04:20 PM

Oh no I am lost already - can I not just run it off version no 1004 and be done with it. What was wrong with Version 1004.
Yes. And then again, no. Each update contains bug fixes, and improvements. My first Cortex was updated regularly. When I got the second one, I left it alone. Till it got to be virtually unusable. I updated it on the fly at a gig with WiFi, and found that it updated to a newer version than the other one. Cured it immediately.

I know what Music Manager is. I realise I should try and get version 1400 on my unit. However what the flipping monkey cheese is ASIO Driver?

Dunno, ask Darren. :p ( Actually it's to do with sound cards, but that's all I know. )

NKR

02-01-2010, 04:34 PM

Dunno, ask Darren. :p ( Actually it's to do with sound cards, but that's all I know. )

Its for when using the unit as a midi player with DJ software on laptop. Don't need that - yet.

As you may have noticed I am plodding along okay at mo. May take you up on the offer of a chat if I get stuck again. Going to try and use the DenonMM software as it appears necessary for external devises.

How was you gig last night?

Okay I will admit it - I should have bought a Cortex. My sound and light buddy has a Cortex I know what he is going to say. 'You should have gone for the simple option like I did'

The Denon is a complete and utter nightmare. Denon Music Manager refuses to recongise any of my tracks and the external drive can't even be picked up by the 2500.

It doesn't help that I am on Vista here (which is also a nightmare) so can't check if my HDD is formatted to FAT 32 or find the MS DOS prompt box to format it.

Excalibur

02-01-2010, 06:15 PM

Okay I will admit it - I should have bought a Cortex. My sound and light buddy has a Cortex I know what he is going to say. 'You should have gone for the simple option like I did'

The Denon is a complete and utter nightmare. Denon Music Manager refuses to recongise any of my tracks and the external drive can't even be picked up by the 2500. http://www.denondjforums.com/forum/index.php?f=28&t=9879&sid=ed3f1e3a54c9e00855a173f3b5d77283&rb_v=viewtopic

It doesn't help that I am on Vista here (which is also a nightmare) so can't check if my HDD is formatted to FAT 32 or find the MS DOS prompt box to format it.

You've not read enough of the Denon forum help, have you? :Naughty: The Denon can now either talk to NTFS drives if you let it, or you need a Buffalo. :p

Buffalo. http://www.buffalotech.com/support/getfile/?DriveStation_Format.zip

NKR

02-01-2010, 07:17 PM

You've not read enough of the Denon forum help, have you? :Naughty: The Denon can now either talk to NTFS drives if you let it, or you need a Buffalo. :p

Buffalo. http://www.buffalotech.com/support/getfile/?DriveStation_Format.zip

Drives formatted to FAT32. You are the man.

OKay lets see if I can get it to read tracks off external device.

Drives formatted to FAT32. You are the man.

OKay lets see if I can get it to read tracks off external device.

Okay found an issue. A load of my previous downloaded files that are on my laptop were downloaded in WMA format. Now thats an issue I have no idea how to resolve. I could burn to CD and rip back as MP3 files I guess.

Excalibur

02-01-2010, 11:01 PM

Okay found an issue. A load of my previous downloaded files that are on my laptop were downloaded in WMA format. Now thats an issue I have no idea how to resolve. I could burn to CD and rip back as MP3 files I guess.

No. I have a solution. Sadly another £15 bites the dust. ;) :( :( :( :(

Corabar Steve

03-01-2010, 08:38 AM

Solitaire Events Ltd

03-01-2010, 12:17 PM

That may well be it.

I'm not sure it is Steve.

I am sure I have created a database on a flash drive before without using MM.

NKR

03-01-2010, 06:07 PM

I'm not sure it is Steve.

I am sure I have created a database on a flash drive before without using MM.

Without DDJMM the external hard drive files are not recognised.

Anyway an update. All day and I have managed to convert 142 to MP3 with Excaliburs advice again. Long haul as I opted for the basic version.

Anyway ripping to start soon, hopefully.

Oh USB hub - CPC sold out of Belkin so got the one down which was a trust. Heap of donkey doo - doesn't work - going back.

Mr Excalibur is a gent and deserves an award for his assitance so far. I think he may feel my pain and is smoothing the path he one trod for me. I owe him a nice bottle of something when I am finished. Oh and I will be good to that as long as he isn't an XO man!!!!!!!

Solitaire Events Ltd

04-01-2010, 11:55 AM

Without DDJMM the external hard drive files are not recognised.

So how do you explain me using a flash drive without it then? :confused:

NKR

04-01-2010, 12:29 PM

So how do you explain me using a flash drive without it then? :confused:

No idea. I wasn't questioning that you are using a flash drive without MM and my response was based on my experience with the unit so far. I certainly didn't mean for it to come across that way if it did and apologies if it did come across that way.

If I can do it without music manager then all the better as it is driving me bonkers. It just keeps throwing up an error message every time I try and play one of my tracks in music manager. I click okay to the error message and then it plays the track anyway. Bizarre thing that it is.

Ripping to start tonight (CD's and my hair out), so no doubt more problems round the corner. I am nothing but determined.

Shakermaker Promotions

04-01-2010, 12:42 PM

I checked my USB Hub just a second ago as I am on a mission soon to start re-tagging. Mine is a powered Advent USB Hub and I have had no problems whatsoever with it.

I think the most important thing about the whole MM is making sure that tracks are tagged properly.

NKR

04-01-2010, 12:43 PM

Pe7e

04-01-2010, 12:48 PM

So how do you explain me using a flash drive without it then? :confused:

Maybe you have loaded the flash drive with files from a source that has already been indexed with Music Manager, or maybe it's only folders that aren't recognised, but individual files not in folders are. I think an experiment is in order :)

Shakermaker Promotions

04-01-2010, 12:49 PM

Yes mate.

Try and make sure you do them properly as it will really help. There is no point having say 2000 tracks there and the system won't find them.

I do mine slightly different so that it is easier for ME as I am the only one using the unit.

For example:

Title - It Began In Africa (rather than) Title - Chemical Brothers - It Began In Africa

Artist - Chemical Brothers
Album - Chemical Brothers (rather than the name of the album)
Year -
Genre -

I don't bother putting the BPM in as it doesn't bother me.

I also take out any - or _ or ?

Pe7e

04-01-2010, 01:14 PM

Tagged being the Artist, Title, Album tags etc? Just checking I am talking the same language as everyone else.

I would recommend you pay particular attention to the title tag, the HD2500 split screen is, IMO pants, and you can easily load the wrong track when they share the same name. I was recently playing a Motown night and thought I had loaded 'my girl' by the Temptations, unfortunately I had loaded my girl by Madness, very embarrassing!! The tracks have now been retitled, and read, 'My Girl (mad)' and 'My Girl (temp)'
I also put (ext) after the title of extended mix versions, and (remix) on remixed versions, it helps me, and may help you to avoid playing an unintended version.

Solitaire Events Ltd

04-01-2010, 01:15 PM

I I was recently playing a Motown night and thought I had loaded 'my girl' by the Temptations, unfortunately I had loaded my girl by Madness, very embarrassing!!

Headphones anyone? ;)

NKR

04-01-2010, 02:52 PM

Headphones anyone? ;)

My Sennheiser headphones had better be compatable with the flipping thing. Its that touchy about everying else that it will communicate with. If anyones a gear snop its my HD2500 - this hubs not good enough and I don't like that make of drive.

Before anyone says - I was only joking - I do know my headphones plug into the mixer and do work with the X900 rather well.

Thanks for the tagging advice. What everyone seems to be saying is tag your files the way in which you think, which is actually really helpful advice. Now All I have to do is work out how to tag stuff "the blue CD with the yellow sun on the front, disc 1 track 8". Its going to a whole different way of working I think :D :D :D

rob1963

04-01-2010, 03:25 PM

I was recently playing a Motown night and thought I had loaded 'my girl' by the Temptations, unfortunately I had loaded my girl by Madness, very embarrassing!!

Headphones anyone? ;)

I have a confession to make.

Last Saturday I actually used MY headphones! :eek: :eek: :eek:

Unfortunately it couldn't be avoided, because after the raffle & announcements they wanted me to go straight into Tina Turner's "The best" but they wanted me to start it at the chorus instead of the beginning.

It was probably the first time I've used the headphones since last Summer!

Corabar Steve

04-01-2010, 03:27 PM

So how do you explain me using a flash drive without it then? :confused:
You used the create DB option on the HD2500?

Not really an option when using a HD with 20000+ tracks on it.

Excalibur

04-01-2010, 03:39 PM

I would recommend you pay particular attention to the title tag, the HD2500 split screen is, IMO pants, and you can easily load the wrong track when they share the same name. I was recently playing a Motown night and thought I had loaded 'my girl' by the Temptations, unfortunately I had loaded my girl by Madness, very embarrassing!! The tracks have now been retitled, and read, 'My Girl (mad)' and 'My Girl (temp)'
I also put (ext) after the title of extended mix versions, and (remix) on remixed versions, it helps me, and may help you to avoid playing an unintended version.

Mut go to Specsavers, I could swear I just read somebody saying the Denon split screen was pants. :confused: :D :D :D
Mind you, the twin Cortex screens are no better, unless you adopt certain Pavlov's Dogs responses. Pushing the info button gives the artist. Stops you playing the dirge "Sandstorm" by the Cast, rather than the somewhat bouncier one by Darude. :o :o :o :o :o :o

Headphones anyone? ;)
A foolproof solution, undoubtedly. Those of us who have become used to picking tracks more by eye than by ear now, like the fact that we can simultaneously search for the next track, and listen to the person at your side making the request for that piece of music they wish to hear. It can help to have little suffixes to distinguish one from another.

If I'm searching for December 63, and I in put December, I get the right track. If I type December '63 I get the extended remix, which I rarely want.

rob1963

04-01-2010, 03:59 PM

I could swear I just read somebody saying the Denon split screen was pants. :confused: :D :D :D
Mind you, the twin Cortex screens are no better, unless you adopt certain Pavlov's Dogs responses. Pushing the info button gives the artist. Stops you playing the dirge "Sandstorm" by the Cast, rather than the somewhat bouncier one by Darude.

Ahhh...the joys of a large non-split screen. ;)

When I search for a track & send it to the crate, there is enough width to display the artist's name, song duration and in most cases the full title as well (or at least most of it).

:D :D :D