Original URL: https://www.theregister.com/2007/08/17/denon_hc4500/
Denon cues up USB DJ kit
Last night a CD saved my life...
Posted in Personal Tech, 17th August 2007 14:43 GMT
As DJs opt for more increasingly sophisticated equipment for their ‘sets’, it’s no surprise to see manufacturers adopting their hardware to suit. Denon is the latest manufacturer to have a spin with a PC and Mac compatible USB MIDI/audio interface and controller, designed for computer-backed performances by club and mobile DJs.
The DN-HC4500 system has a USB 2.0 audio interface, with 2-channel stereo output, 44.1/48/96KHz sampling and low latency ASIO/OSX audio support, which Denon claims prevents any problems that could be experienced when, say, streaming audio from PC files.
Mix, scratch and fade with the DN-HC4500
A two-line display is built into the device to help you find your way between music files or folders, instead of looking over at your display screen. Five function keys are built into the top of the system for easy access during mixes, as well as illuminated keys to help ensure DJs press the right buttons as the strobe lights flash overhead and 45mm pitch sliders, that the manufacturer claims are capable of deep resolution.
The 7cm jog dials are also said to incorporate ultra-high resolution pulse and touch sensors, which should help all amateur Pete Tong’s to sense subtle and swift scratching movements, in addition to pitch bending and scanning.
There’s no word on what the unit’s heat output is, but it might be wise to keep your old vinyl classics at a safe distance for the time being. The DN-HC4500 is available now and retails for around £400 (€475).