NI debuts Audio 8 DJ, Traktor Scratch

Native Instruments has announced the NI Education Program, AUDIO 8 DJ -- a performance-optimized USB 2.0 audio interface specifically designed for TRAKTOR 3 and other professional DJ software -- and TRAKTOR SCRATCH -- a new professional DJ system designed as a computer-based DJing solution for digital music files with turntable and CD control. The company's education program is a new initiative designed to enable music education institutions as well as students to incorporate its audio production and sound design tools into curriculum at reduced costs and effort. The NI Education Program offers both discounted single licenses for individual students and teachers as well as multi-license models for institutions. Lab Pack and Site License versions of the Education Program are due to arrive in February from authorized dealers and in the NI online store. AUDIO 8 DJ is slated for shipment in April or May of 2007 for $450. TRAKTOR SCRATCH is due in April or May of 2007 for $670, and TRAKTOR SCRATCH users will be able to purchase TRAKTOR 3 software at a discounted price.

Education-specific license models amount to discounts of up to 77 percent, according to Native Instruments, while a new License Server application enables convenient network installation to ease the process of institutions equipping entire classrooms with professional software instruments and effects.

Multi-license models include the 5-license "Lab Pack" as well as 15-seat Site License versions. Both single licenses and multi-licenses are available for the KOMPLETE 4 bundle as well as for KORE, GUITAR RIG, BANDSTAND, and TRAKTOR. Further discounts apply for the purchase of additional hardware controllers for KORE and GUITAR RIG. Single education licenses are also available for REAKTOR, KONTAKT, MASSIVE, TRAKTOR SCRATCH and AUDIO KONTROL 1.

AUDIO 8 DJ

AUDIO 8 DJ includes an 8-in/8-out configuration, two studio-grade phono preamps, low latency, and a compact aluminum casing. The user interface offers four stereo inputs, two of which are equipped with software-switchable high-quality phono preamps that allow users to incorporate nearly any combination of turntables, CD players, drum machines, and other instruments into one setup. The interface also provides four stereo outputs to complement the four playback decks in TRAKTOR 3 when using the software with an external mixer. All audio connections are in RCA format to allow for easy connection with turntables, CD players and DJ mixers.

AUDIO 8 DJ features a microphone input for voice-overs, a ground point for turntables, and a MIDI I/O to synchronize external MIDI gear as well as connect performance controller hardware. Status LEDs on the interface provide an instant overview about input levels and other vital system parameters, while several safeguard features prevent potential operating errors or accidents from interrupting a performance. AUDIO 8 DJ is completely bus-powered, negating the need for an AC adapter.

The interface features studio-quality 24-bit/96 kHz audio converters from Cirrus Logic that provide clear treble and rich bass response, according to Native Instruments, and the software utilizes the company's fourth-generation audio driver technology with low-latency operation down to less than 4ms to enable a high degree of precision and responsiveness. AUDIO 8 DJ ships with TRAKTOR 3 LE, a compact version of Native Instruments' TRAKTOR software that offers two decks with time-stretching, an integrated mixer, performance effects, loop and cueing functions, a powerful track database, and Beatport integration.

TRAKTOR SCRATCH

TRAKTOR SCRATCH is designed to provide straightforward setup and operation, as well as various creative features that allow DJs to excel while maintaining the intuitive hands-on control method of vinyl. The TRAKTOR SCRATCH system consists of a special version of Native Instruments' TRAKTOR software, the AUDIO 8 DJ hardware interface, a pair of innovative 'Instant Connect' multi-core cables, and a set of time-code vinyls and CDs. The system utilizes a new high-resolution timecode technology optimized for responsiveness and precision, with separate timecode versions for vinyl and CD guaranteeing optimal performance in any environment.

The included AUDIO 8 DJ hardware interface connects to the computer via USB 2.0, and connects the system to the DJ mixer, turntables and CD players. The interface provides enhanced audio quality due to studio-grade 24bit/96kHz audio conversion, and allows for true low-latency operation with short response times. AUDIO 8 DJ offers features stereo inputs and outputs as well as microphone input and MIDI I/O, enabling a wide range of stage and studio setups.

TRAKTOR SCRATCH offers full MIDI parameter control, a comprehensive track database with search and history functions, and advanced playlist management including automatic iTunes import. The software also features
direct integration with Beatport, an online store for electronic music. The company has optimized TRAKTOR SCRATCH for performance, offering status displays in both hardware and software to provide an overview of all vital system parameters at a glance. Several safeguard features prevent potential operating errors or accidents from interrupting a performance, according to Native Instruments, and the included multi-core cables ease the connection process while reducing clutter and setup times in a live environment.

Users can also combine the TRAKTOR SCRATCH system with Native Instruments' TRAKTOR 3 software to access four full-featured decks, an integrated software mixer with virtual-analog EQs and filters, Native Mix Recording with rehearsal and overdubbing features, extended loop capabilities, and automatic beat-matching.