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Review & Video: Numark iDJ Pro iPad DJ Controller

Numark iDJ Pro review

Slot your iPad running Algoriddim’s djay software right into the middle of the iDJ Pro, and DJ in a way quite unlike you’ve ever done before. That’s the promise of Numark’s new iDJ Pro.

Numark iDJ Pro review: Ever since the iPad first appeared, tech-savvy DJs and musicians have looked for ways to use it in their performances. But there’s always been an awkward question as to exactly how it should be used – as a screen for a piece of hardware? As a fully contained DJ surface? As a third “deck” or sample bank?

Truth is you can use it in all of these ways, but Numark is the first company to come up with a DJ product where the iPad actually slots right there into the unit. While the iPad gives you a gorgeous interactive screen with innovative control over certain functions, the iDJ Pro simultaneously acts as a secure iPad stand and a set of hardware controls for your DJ software. In that way, the Numark iDJ Pro is quite unlike any other DJ controller out there.

 

 

We’ve had plenty of time to consider this unit: We saw the first Numark iDJ Pro prototype at this year’s NAMM show in January, and in April we got to play on a working iDJ Pro demo at Musikmesse.

The Numark iDJ Pro is quite unlike any other DJ controller out there.

Since then, Numark has worked hard with the software provider Algoriddim (this unit works best with Algoriddim’s djay for iPad app, for which it has a special version – more later) to refine and improve the iDJ Pro, and the good news is that the final production unit has now arrived and is shipping.

I’ve spent quite some time in solitary confinement with my iPad and one of the first units out of the factory – and I have to say I’ve enjoyed every minute of it! Here’s my full Digital DJ Tips review and video demo…

The hardware

The iDJ Pro shares the same design bloodline as other more expensive DJ products like the Numark Mixdeck Quad or the Numark NS6. The touch-sensitive jog wheels are similar to those on other recent Numark controllers (albeit without any flashing LEDs), so their generous size and response makes scratching a breeze.

Numark iDJ Pro iPad

Your iPad provides, without a doubt, the best screen on any DJ control device ever – better by far even than Pioneer’s top-of-the-range CDJ2000nexus, also launched this last week…

The curved edges immediately make the unit feel feel friendly, while the brushed metal surface gives a quality feel to the build, although overall the quality is “good consumer” rather than “professional”. The colour scheme of ice blue and fresh green LEDs give the iDJ Pro a visually futuristic style.

Having rotary volume controls instead of faders for each deck will no doubt have some experienced DJs spluttering, as most mixers and controllers feature volume slider controls positioned close together for a reason (so you can fade down both tracks with one hand). Admittedly, I was taken aback too at first – but I have to admit that after seeing the green LEDs light up as you turn the dials it was hard not to smile and picture yourself commanding a spaceship!

 

 

Inputs, outputs and fittings
The iDJ Pro has a pair of balanced XLR outputs as well as stereo RCA output connectors at the rear of the unit. A Kensington security lock connector is also present, so you could lock the iDJ Pro to the booth ensuring that no-one reaches over during the night and walks off with it. I guess it wouldn’t stop them whipping your iPad out though…

If you’re using an iPad 2 or third generation iPad then some velcro adapters ensure for a tight, snug fit.

The rear of the unit features a snap-shut hinged section which allows the iPad to be slotted (gently) into the central part of the iDJ Pro. The iPad is placed into the unit with the “Home” button furthest away from you (at the top); this is so the iPad can be hooked into the unit via the short 30-pin connector cable. When the hinged section is shut, the 30pin connector cable is hidden inside the unit.

If you’re using an iPad 2 or third generation iPad then some Velcro adapters ensure for a tight, snug fit into the iDJ Pro. I was initially worried about ventilation, however Numark has designed the unit to ensure sufficient circulation around the iPad during use.

Numark iDJ Pro connections

Simple yet effective and thoughtfully positioned inputs for Mic and Aux – useful for mobile set-ups.

Apple often tinkers with dimensions and specifications between the regular versions of its hardware; for example, it’s rumoured that the company will be phasing out the 30-pin connector. However Numark assures us that should that happen, adapters will be available.

The different fitting options and “upside down” arrangement plus the promised availability of cable adaptors should therefore mean that forthcoming iPad models will fit into the unit and be connected up without issue. Of course it’s always going to be a bit of a question mark when new hardware from one manufacturer is incorporated into older hardware from another, but it’s good to see that Numark has at least thought about this and done all it can to future-proof the unit.

 

 

The front panel provides a microphone input with simple gain and tone control alongside stereo auxiliary inputs (also with a gain control). The auxiliary input could be used for adding a further sound source (like a drum machine or sampler) into the mix; however without an EQ or crossfader assign option here it would maybe too risky for some. I would be inclined to use it as a means for a quick and effortless DJ switchover.

Firmware updates will be delivered to the unit via the docked iPad…

There are two different-sized headphone sockets with a master/cue mix and volume control. It’s worth noting here that you do not need a stereo splitter cable for use with the iDJ Pro; all audio routing is all handled within the unit. While both headphones and master outputs are technically currently in mono due to a limitation of iOS5, it is worth remembering that iOS6 (expected on September 21) could be bringing stereo cueing and stereo master outputs using multiroute audio.

iDJ Pro hardware software integration

The integration of hardware and software tries to bring out the best of both; for instance, you select FX on the screen, but then use the top-middle controls in this picture to make your changes.

A clever feature of the iDJ Pro is that firmware updates will be delivered to the unit via the docked iPad, either through the djay app or possibly a dedicated app from Numark.

So should this happen, Numark can remotely update your unit for you in a hassle-free way to take advantage of this and any other iOS developments.

All of the buttons, dials, sliders and both jog wheels on the surface of the iDJ Pro are sending Midi messages to the iPad via the 30-pin connector cable. The cable also sends audio back to the iDJ Pro, and charges the iPad at the same time – no worrying about battery life during a gig!

Because the controls are sending Midi messages it means that the iDJ Pro could be used by other DJ apps; in fact, we understand the makers of some have already approached Numark with this in mind. The main consideration for the app developers would be to ensure a useful portrait interface design of their software (most DJ software runs best in landscape mode) and that their iDJ Pro versions make best use of the controls available.

 

 

The software

As it stands though, Numark has developed the iDJ Pro in close partnership with Algoriddim and in particular that company’s djay software, to ensure the iDJ Pro is paired neatly to the functionality offered in the djay app. In order for the iDJ Pro unit to excel, the app taking centrestage needs to make the best use of available space, which is why Algoriddim has redesigned its DJ interface into a portrait view (it flips automatically). However, this is much more than just a simple orientation adjustment.

Redesigned djay interface with the iDJ Pro

The djay app gets redesigned with added functionality for use with the iDJ Pro.

In order to best spread functions out across the touchscreen window and the hardware, Algoriddim has altered what is visible on the screen:

The pop-up window that’s used to access features like loops, cues, FX and EQ that exists in “standard” versions of the software has been removed. EQing is taken care of via the high, mid and low rotary controls at the top of the iDJ Pro, so no need to duplicate effort on the iPad view either. And the cue functionality (main cue plus three additional hot cues) is all handled via the cue buttons at the lower deck part of the iDJ Pro.

So what is the screen used for? Well, the top of the screen shows waveforms (not parallel, though) and track playback detail, the “note” icon next to the BPM display being how you’ll trigger the keylock function. Underneath this are three buttons for each deck (as well as the Settings button):

  • FX – There is a drop-down list showing five effects that you can choose from. The chosen effect will be used when you press the “FX” button on the iDJ Pro (situated alongside the loop controls). With the button pressed the effect will be continuous until the button is pressed for a second time. During this period you can adjust a parameter of the effect with the rotary dial above the FX button
  • Loop – This button shows the current loop length which can be adjusted via the loop buttons on the iDJ Pro
  • Waveform – Pressing this button will display a permanent zoomed in view of the waveform during playback. This is something that has been requested as a feature on the djay app for some time now, so good to see it here

The centre of the screen is dedicated to the deck view with a swipe gain control in the middle. I found it tricky to adjust the gain with any great reliance or accuracy, mainly because the spot you need to press is so small and seemed to be slow to respond to movement.

The lower section of the screen is specifically for FX, whether it’s an X-Y pad or one of the six instant FX buttons. The redesigned interface means some of these controls (such as the FX pads and buttons) are larger and much more useable than on standard versions of the software.

Next page of Numark iDJ Pro Review & Video »

 

 

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106 Responses to “Review & Video: Numark iDJ Pro iPad DJ Controller”
  1. Nilton says:

    what about the new ipad connector??, i read somewhere that it’s a different type… it could mean that one would not be able to use a new ipad model

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    • Phil Morse says:

      Our writer covers such a possibility and what Numark has said about that in the review.

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      • Nilton says:

        sorry didn’t read that part thanks!!

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  2. Tommy says:

    If I had taken my credit card to work I may have bought it, but by the time I get home my thoughts will have changed.

    Good review.

    Possible Christmas Present.

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    • Tommy says:

      Also dose it have a strap so that it can be thrown onto shoulder (Think Ghetto Blaster) That would allow for the strutting down the street pose?

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  3. Hane says:

    Does the Algoriddim app finally also show bmp and key info while browsing the library? The lack of these has, to me, been the major fault with this app – although I don’t know if any other app actually has this either?

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    • If you enable the full-screen library in the settings, djay shows you the BPM for each song. Our iOS versions currently don’t have key analysis, but you can find that feature in djay for Mac.

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      • Kenny says:

        Understand that djay doesn’t do key analysis but it would be useful if the library displayed the key field, which we may have filled in from other analysis software or manually.

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      • Kenny says:

        Frederik,

        I’m curious about how MIDI is implemented with the iDJ Pro. Somehow I was under the impression that it was difficult to do use the dock connector for MIDI? Any info re: that would be appreciated. Thanks!

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      • DJ Hombre says:

        Hi Kenny,
        I’m not sure what you mean about Midi. The iDJ Pro has a standard 30pin connector which charges the iPad, sends audio from the iPad back to the iDJ Pro and transmits Midi data via CoreMidi.

        I’ve been playing with the DJ Player beta and have mapped all the controls on the iDJ Pro to the DJ Player app – the only downside is that a landscape format makes no sense in a portrait iPad slot!

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    • The Bob says:

      I use Mixed in Key software which puts BPM and key in song Title. very handy.

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      • Paul says:

        Hey The Bob I use MIK too can you tell me how to get Key and BPM into title?
        Cheers

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  4. mackies_dj says:

    What about iOS6 and dual stereo out?

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  5. mackies_dj says:

    What about dual stereo out in ios6?

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  6. mackies_dj says:

    I send it twice… Sorry :)

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  7. Alex TC says:

    This looks promising. Solid “tactility” in the form or regular, intuitive and DJ friendly layout combined with iPad´s excellent music brownsing, capacity and quality means no more accidental moves in smoky, dark club environments (aka DJ booth). Cool looking and compact enough to have at home and carry out too, way to go Numark. Thanks for the review ;-)

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  8. dj_aris says:

    My top-5 reasons why I couldn’t DJ (solely based) on an iPad:

    Don’t get my wrong; I love my iPad. It’s just that I wouldn’t take it to a gig with me. Here’s why:

    1) Disk Space. Even the 64GB version simply doesn’t cut it. I’m a wedding DJ in Greece and my music collection is over 400GB; and that consists of tracks carefully selected. In my work, you can’t be asked a song and reply “sorry, I don’t have it on my iPad”. Even the download feature isn’t enough for me, as a) I don’t know if the 3G connection will be strong enough in my next gig, b) I don’t know if all of the songs I need will be available on the iTunes store and c) I don’t trust the iPad surfing the iTunes store while playing music out to 400 people!

    2) Reliability. Continuing the above point (c), the iPad is a magnificent web surfer, relatively stable, to my opinion. But, during an 8-hour gig? What if it crashes? Of course, this may also happen to your computer, but, I’ve been playing since 2004 and my computers haven’t crashed not even once. Besides, a desktop OS is far more versatile, for instance you could crtl+alt+del around your problem, what can you do on an iPad?

    3) Sorting / Searching. The all-in-one folder approach of the iTunes is LAME! I need seperate tracks in seperate folders. Period. It might be OK-ish to do that for some relatively close genres, but you can’t have traditional music with r&b in the same library. Even ID3 tags can’t help the situation when you have thousands and thousands of songs.

    4) Display Size. 15,4 inches are way better than 9,7 inches. When your computer or iPad’s screen is virtually your tracklist / track selector, it should be crystal clear and perfectly visible. And when these 9,7 inches are also filled with waveforms, track info, fx & samples it becomes even worse. Or maybe I’m just getting old!

    5) Input / Interaction. While a touch screen is perfect for a tablet device, it isn’t as accurate as a mouse for “precision” actions, such as placing the virtual needle on a waveform. Just think that you could very very easily hit a deck button (stop / cue) on your iPad while trying to “aim” for entirely different function. That is almost impossible to happen with a mouse.

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    • Trent Warren says:

      There is actually a pretty simple workaround for ‘library capacity’ and access using the iPad; admittedly, it involves bringing a laptop, but it should work.

      If you have your iPad set to ‘sync with iTunes over Wi-Fi’ & ‘Manually manage music & videos’ [can be done under the 'Summary' tab for your device in iTunes, in the 'Options' section], you can drag & drop music onto your iPad without having to perform a full sync or be directly connected to the iPad. This will give you the ability to locate requests from your partiers on the laptop and transfer them to the iPad quickly; bring your entire library [in iTunes] and you can play what you need when you need it!

      Special Note: You don’t need a ‘real’ Wi-Fi network to do this on a MacBook/Pro- you can use the ‘Create Network…’ option in the Wi-Fi settings on the laptop, select that newly created network in the iPad’s wi-fi settings, the iPad will show up in iTunes and it will work just the same!

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      • dj_aris says:

        Sounds like an excellent workaround mate. But I’m still not convinced overall! Not your fault though!

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    • Phil Dinnis says:

      As a dj of over 40 years and having moved through the vinyl days to CDs and then digital I really have seen it all. Sadly I really despair at Numark constantly missing the mark. The ns4 was brilliant but limited with it’s just two decks, so instead of making the 4 deck version of ns4 they go and make the non motorized ns6. Where a 4 deck motorized unit capable of running Serato or Traktor would have been the business. This new unit really is a toy, as my fellow dj said here the capacity of the iPads is to small way to small for any serious use as a all round dj. I have over 850gb of music on my I Mac and there’s still a ton of music I do not have, as any pro dj will tell you we never have every track, there’s always a request for the one you don’t have. Its a good idea but Newmarket you’ll have to build in its own he’d with at least itb for serious all round djs

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    • Edson Brito says:

      Aris, I like your review.
      However, IDJ might not be for you.
      1) 64 GB is the limit. No way to go over it. is still a lot of capacity. Knowing what sort of party to mix might help to get a usefull library to perform.

      2) 8 hours in the mix will terribly get you tired. I have done it, for personal use, quite fatiguing. get an assistant.

      3) tag your songs correctly, at your style. Searching is really terrible in the IDJ, is one of my headaches. On the Numark IDJ 2 the use of keyboard is REMARKABLE. In fact: it would be one great achivement if they could somehow set a keyboard use in the IDJ PRO. it will make an enormous achivement.

      4) the display information, in my opinion is perfect. they have this little letters that will only be visible if you really want to see it clearly, and yet, somehow they manage to avoid visual polution while searching. Very assertive display information.

      5) I have fat fingers and they get in the way sometimes with the ipad display. Since i am aware of it, i can manouver with conciousness…. and time, in case i need to set things up again….

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  9. Si Boogie says:

    It might have been an idea to have an android version too but still a great idea. The closest competion I’m aware of would be the Aero XDJ but that’s more than twice the price

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  10. sneakuh says:

    This could make a great backup as it covers both laptop & controller failure, this could also be great for mobile/wedding dj’s.

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  11. Alex TC says:

    All good points indeed. Sure the iPad is not for everyone, I get lots of “look” from fellow DJs when I use it at clubs or gigs, even though I never had a single problem while playing on it. The public certainly doesn´t care so neither do I. I understand it´s kinda weird compared to playing with vinyl and then CDs, which is where I come from. But then I saw the same looks back when controllers and laptops started to show up in booths, so… who knows what´s next anyway.

    This Numark piece should improve any operational issues I guess. Of course that´s not enough for anyone who needs more than about 40 or 50G of music. I for myself have almost 25G on my iPad2, all high-quality files, of every genre and style I not only play in clubs, radio, gigs, etc. but also listen while at home or driving. So I can´t even imagine what´s 400G of music is (I must confess that lately I´m leaning towards “less is more”, focusing on curating my collection and pre-planning my “DJ bag” so I don´t get lost or too carried away while playing. And I admit I hardly take requests too).

    But I must say that though I play professionaly (except when I play at some friend wedding or party) 7 or 8 times a month, if I was to play more weddings and corporate parties I´d probably take more requests and need more music too. Still, gear-wise I for myself would rely on my iPad, for me it´s a matter of practise and getting used with the gear you´re on at the time and I got really used to the iPad to the point I prefer to play almost exclusively with it. Odd enough, this past weekend I used vinyl, CD and the iPad lol…

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    • Michel Leblanc says:

      Hi Guys

      Anyone that knows there’s actually a workaround to what has been said in terms of space. There a seagate unit called go flex satellite the original wifi drive cuts you from the web because of wifi (about 200$ in Canada). if you need web access as well you use the hack from http://www.hackseagatesatellite.com/wordpress/welcome/ for about 35$. Anc Voila you have 500 Gig of disk space packed as a NAS that will allow you to browse the web at the same. I guess in this case like many other there is always a workaround.

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  12. mackies_dj says:

    The vjay working with idj pro but need another version (like djay)… The question is how the vjay gonna work, when idj has no any video out!?

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    • Phil Morse says:

      That’s a very fine question…

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    • DJ Hombre says:

      Hi mackies_dj, the same question can be asked of vjay’s compatibility with the Mixdeck Quad and the iDJ2Go – neither of which have a video output. The answer is either to stream the signal to Apple TV + AirPlay enabled AV receivers … or to record your video mixing within the app.

      I haven’t tried the AirPlay solution to Apple TV so I can’t vouch for its success or the latency experienced.

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      • Trent Warren says:

        I have played around with the Apple TV/AirPlay setup using vjay & the iDJLive; I have to say I wasn’t impressed with the quality of the output. Maybe my iPad2 doesn’t perform as well as the ‘new’ iPad might with that feature…

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    • juwansome says:

      Perhaps vjay will work with the hdmi adapter which has another dock connector and hdmi port ;)

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  13. Hi, i wanted to know if it was possible to use the djay software from the Mac App Store with this controller. While i will buy it and use it with the iPad, i wanted to know if the djay software for the Mac can also be used since i have that one as well. Also, you mentioned something on the review about using other MIDI controllers. Does that mean i can connect my Launchpad or something of the kind?

    Thanks for the reply! :)

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    • Phil Morse says:

      It is designed to work with djay from the app store, but you need to ensure you have the latest version (1.5.2 I believe). Anyway, as long as you’re all updated, it’ll work fine. I think Neil referred to using other software, not other hardware.

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    • DJ Hombre says:

      Hi Quintin, djay for Mac has Midi Learn (I think) which means you should be able to connect your Mac to *any* Midi controller and use djay with it. Because the iDJPro is sending Midi signals to the iPad it would be a case of finding a connecting cable that fits the short 30 pin (male) connector of the iDJPro to your Mac.

      This totally defeats the purpose of the iDJPro though, you wouldn’t have an iPad in the centre section and therefore wouldn’t have the benefits from the touchscreen.

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  14. Jammin' James E says:

    Would someone who has hand-tested the iDJ Pro unit using Airplay & its “Cue in the Headphones” technology confirm that it solves the biggest issue with iPad DJing – the lack of responsiveness and beat synch tools that make it nearly impossible to line up beats repeatedly and accurately?

    Is it possible with the iDJ Pro to repeatedly, without fear of error, land the first beat of the cued track on the first beat of the playing 16 beat measure and hold it there before I let the room hear my mix on Airplay? This is the obvious minimum required for any self-respecting DJ, especially before he drops $500 to enjoy it. Thanks.

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    • Trent Warren says:

      I don’t think that the Airplay feature allows for headphone cueing on the device. I don’t have my manual handy as I am typing this, but I think it specifically said that AutoMix is recommended due to a lack of cueing while Airplay is enabled.

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      • Jammin' James E says:

        Thanks, Trent. I confirmed that the use of Airplay is really an afterthought on the iDJ Pro. The unit is for folks who want to mix with an iPad but don’t mind hard wiring to the external audio / speakers to do so. While the IDJ Pro works the way it is intended, it ends up “owning” the iPad by how it connects within it so that you can’t easily access/use other iPad apps.

        Conclusion: The beauty of the iPad is its versatility and low profile, but neither are priorities with the iDJ Pro.

        My dream: A sleek tablet DJ controller (with optional twiddle knob add-ons) that wirelessly plays to the living room stereo while you cue up tracks flawlessly in the headphones and check your mail / read your favorite e-book in between mixes. Invent one Edison!

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  15. Mjo says:

    Anyone think this would work…
    Mac running virtual dj (with my full library)
    Idj pro + ipad2 running virtual dj remote app (portrait skin by djdad)
    All sync’ed over wifi or airport express or airplay.

    Hope that makes sense. I would like the iPad to control virtual dj so i can access the majority of my music, but use the hardware of the idj pro.

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    • DJ Hombre says:

      Hi Mjo,
      I don’t think this will work as VirtualDJ Remote runs solely on the iOS device, it hasn’t got any Midi implementation so your iDJ Pro would be an expensive iPad holder!

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  16. Trent Warren says:

    Did my first event with the iDJ Pro this past weekend: 3hrs of heavy mixing…
    PERFECT PERFORMANCE- not a SINGLE glitch [and I am running iOS6 beta]. Even tested my library storage workaround during my mixes and it worked without any noticeable change in performance. In all honesty, the iDJ Pro actually works better than my NS6 mixer [been having issues with Serato ITCH freezing and the NS6 lights not responding].

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  17. Kenny says:

    Thanks for the great review Phil. I was intrigued a few years ago when the old iDJ2 for iPod came out. However, that one was a basic level consumer plastic build product all the way. Seems like they’re heading in a good direction with the idjPro. Still early days with all of this though. Kudos of Numark for being willing to try new things.

    However, the rotary knobs are always a deal breaker for me. I had a residency in a club that had one of classic Rane rotary mixers. Even after two years I never warmed up to it. If it had only those green LEDs…

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    • Phil Morse says:

      I think they’d admit they dropped the ball a bit when they followed the pretty decent iDJ2 with the puzzling IDJ3; this is a bit more back on track I think.

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  18. DJ Postie says:

    all I can say is I like the look & feel of it and can’t wait to get my hands on a new IDJ Pro when they arrive here in Australia……..
    I even have a hard case lined up for it. Thanks for your review on it and always a pleasure to read all your reviews. cheers

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  19. Jonesy says:

    Thanks for this review, really useful. I enjoy IPad djing and have found the iDJlive served a purpose for a while but now I want to step up a gear or two. The dilemma is whether to buy the IDJ pro, accepting all the limitations in the above comments or reach out and get the Numark MixDeck Quad and also use it for the IPad ?

    Admittedly, there is a fairly big difference in price but then the mixdeck quad gives you that backup of the CD players and two other phono inputs so that you switch to vinyl for those tunes that you can only get and only sound right when played on vinyl !

    I like the fact that the iDJ pro comes in the brushed metal finish whereas the mixdeck quad is a bit less appealing due to the plastic finish.

    In short, I am in a bit of a quandary – launch in and get the IDJ pro or save up a bit and get the mixdeck quad ? Which do you think has more longevity ?

    Any thoughts or advice appreciated.

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    • DJ Hombre says:

      Hi Jonesy,

      This is a tough one…Mixdeck Quad or iDJ Pro. It’s like choosing between two siblings, who is your favourite; your sensible older brother or your stylish younger sister?!

      The Mixdeck Quad certainly gave you plenty of options to extend your mixing to 4-channels with a multitude of inputs and a decent stack of outputs too.

      The iDJPro is brilliant if you already own an iPad and have no desire to jump into mixing with CDs, USB or with a laptop as well.

      The question of longevity is an odd one, as I’ve still got many core pieces of kit which are edging towards 15 years old now and still function fine. I guess it’s down to how you use it and where you think your DJing may go in the future.

      Personally, I enjoyed the Mixdeck Quad because of its versatility but I prefer the iDJ Pro as it is pulling my iPad into the centre and was incredibly simple (and fun) to use.

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  20. Andy Droid says:

    Does it work with iPad 1 as well, or only 2 & 3? Thank you.

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  21. jonnymaxt says:

    Hello Everyone,

    I’m keen on returning to mixing music as a hobby, I own an ipad and like the look of Idj pro and would like to know if anybody can actually confirm the split audio “problem” has been resolved by the now released IOS6? Cheers

    Great site by the way and I have also found your videos informative and worthwhile

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    • Phil Morse says:

      No, you still have to mix in mono in IOS6. We don’t see this as a big issue. Thanks for the compliments!

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  22. Sounds real tempting if you already own an iPad, but without it, the price of the controller + the ipad could rocket to 850+ US$, and with that price I rather buy the Denon MC6000 or something of the kind which in my opinion holds much more powerful features.
    Its pretty neat overall and a must to have if you already have an ipad, but in the contrary, I think there are much better options for the budget Dj

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    • Phil Morse says:

      But that’s assuming you already own a laptop… admittedly most people do but times they are a-changin’…

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      • juwansome says:

        yup, I don’t have a laptop, just the 3rd Gen iPad with 32GB, so this just what I need! It’s surely better than using my mac mini and an external monitor, lol!

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  23. mackies_dj says:

    The new update of Djay app promise multi stereo out… Is finally to djay options the dual stereo out or to iOS 6?

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    • lee says:

      I believe the app can now dual stereo out. I updated my firmware on my ipad2. Then I got an update notification for djay and in the update description, there was something about dual stereo out :)

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  24. juwansome says:

    I would love to see this work with:

    1. Djay Remote App, to interface the iPad with a macbook if desired.

    2. An app with TouchDJ style vertical waveforms or if Serato could PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE develop an iPad app!!!

    3. A portrait version of DJ Player, ready ready-made midi-maps!

    Please, Santa, God, Serato… Somebody!

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    • juwansome says:

      Still dead serious about the Djay Remote App working with iDJ Pro! Imagine running Djay for Mac on a Mac Mini, safely tucked under the iDJ Pro, while you access your ENTIRE iTunes library using Djay Remote App on your iPad! Let’s have it Algoriddim! :-D (Heading to their support forum now ;-) )

      [ link ]
  25. Kleva says:

    So after thinking long and hard I decided to go out and get the IDJ PRO today. At the moment my ipad is out of commission, so I plugged in my iPhone 4S and it worked great! The only issue I had was the split cueing. When turned on the master volume changed drastically. It would play fine when the channel 1 or channel 2 cue buttons aren’t lit but, soon as I pressed one of the cue buttons and the light came on…the volume dropped. I’m hoping its because I was using my iPhone and not an ipad and that’s the reason that happens. If it does do that with the iPad, as much as I like the unit I’d definitely return it.

    [ link ]
    • juwansome says:

      @Kleva: Not sure if this will help, but try disabling Auto gain. That was a solution to a similar issue I had when using Serato Itch…

      [ link ]
  26. David says:

    I’m really thinking about buying it. Will it work wellprofessionally tough…

    [ link ]
    • Phil Morse says:

      No it’s not meant for pro use, but that doesn’t mean you couldn’t use it at least semi-pro.

      [ link ]
      • juwansome says:

        Phil, why would you say that it’s not meant for Pro use? Pro is its last name ;)

        [ link ]
      • Phil Morse says:

        It’s a consumer product, despite its name.

        [ link ]
      • juwansome says:

        Phil, I just have to say that I’ve been using it for a few weeks now, and it’s very stable on my iPad 3 running iOS 6.0, and does everything I need it to do. I’m getting paid to use it. I’m sure other DJs will/do find that it is up to the task for gigs. I don’t see average consumers (or just those that bought the Djay app) going out and buying one just to have one. The software is solid, has the necessary features of Master Tempo, Hot cues, Loops, FX, Samples etc., and the controls of the iDJ Pro are as good as say the Mixdeck Quad/Mixtrack Pro. Therefore, it can and IS being used professionally. I feel like your telling us that we won’t be taken seriously if we use it professionally, or that it’s lacking sufficient features and/or quality to handle the task of a DJ gig?

        I was one of the first DJs to use a laptop (12″ Powerbook G4 lol) to DJ in my jurisdiction, that was back in 2002/2003. People certainly were curious but they did not mock me. Now in 2012 it seems most DJs have a glowing Apple logo… I’m not saying that every DJ should become an iPad DJ, but I am saying that it is a worthy (and much less expensive) alternative set up, now that we can charge the iPad at the same time that we connect a great Midi controller to it, its solid OS and of course great DJ software (Djay/DJ Player).

        [ link ]
      • leroy says:

        juwansome, so your’re DJying mono yes?
        that’s not so pro i think….
        :)
        any ideas as for when should we expect the 2x stereo support?
        tnx.

        leroy.

        [ link ]
  27. The Bob says:

    I was preparing to submit a wonderful review of my club experience with the IDJ Live last week. This changes everything!

    I’ve been a professional DJ for 33 years now, first spinning Disco records in 1978 at my high school dances.

    I’ve played all over the world and used some of the finest equipment. I do a monthly four hour set at a club a few blocks from my home, so it’s easy to experiment with new equipment.

    I’ve been using the IDJ Live for the past three months and my only complaint was losing signal strength from use of the splitter. Not really a big deal since it’s a quality sound system and I could just turn the volume up.

    I love house music and rarely scratch. I found that in a four hour set, I never touched the platters! I would just use my finger on the virtual tone arm once in a while, and set a cue while listening through the headphones. Everything worked great, and paired with Dj Chuckie Noisepad App., I had soooooo much fun.

    If the Dj is having fun, that transfers over to the crowd, right? You bet it does.

    Sure, it’s cool to plug a couple Rekordbox loaded thumbdrives into a CDJ-2000, but I didn’t feel like I was missing out on anything.

    So I just happened to see the IDJ Pro while walking through the electronics store yesterday and immediately grabbed the last one on the shelf. Can’t wait to use it this Thursday. I’ll report back if there are any problems, but based on the review above, you probably won’t be hearing from me.

    [ link ]
  28. Kleva says:

    @juwansome…thanks for the tip but my ipad is up and running again and it works great!

    One thing I was curious about is, on the box and in pictures it shows the playlist underneath the tables. How do you get that set-up? Not sure if its because I’m using an ipad 1 but, I can’t figure it out.

    [ link ]
    • juwansome says:

      @Kleva, Great question!!! So far all I see is effects under the “decks”. I changed the Library Full Screen setting to off, but it still comes up full screen when connected to the iDJ Pro…. will try again when I get home.

      [ link ]
  29. Andrew says:

    How can I add different sound effects to the IPad or through the I DJ Pro can someone help me with that thanks

    [ link ]
  30. SunJay says:

    So it works with the ipad but would it function with an iphone 4s?

    [ link ]
    • juwansome says:

      Yes it does, was using it last night with an iPhone 4! ;-) FX, everything works, just that the screen is small so it’s harder to see your library. Also, the BPM is not on the main screen unless you have iPhone 5 or iPod Touch 5G, but the SYNC button could help with that issue, if you’re into that kind of thing ;-) iPod Touch 5G with 64GB is only $399…hmmm, I prefer the larger screen of my iPad 3, but it’s great to have options/backup!

      [ link ]
  31. Benjamin "Reticuli" Goulart says:

    I love rotaries. Dude. Very nice. I used my Xone 62 as a frigg’n rotary. If I had an ipad, I’d get this.

    [ link ]
  32. DJ fabulous says:

    Does the idj pro come with built in speakers or do you have to buy them ???

    [ link ]
  33. Kleva says:

    So I finally took my idj pro out for a wedding this past weekend and everything went great. Many people were impressed cuz they’ve never seen anything like it before and it just worked like charm.
    As of last night, the first update came out and Im very thrilled about the added features. Since I use 1st generation ipad and auto-gain feature isn’t compatable I’m glad they came up with a way to make it work.

    The only thing I’m not thrilled about is leaving the table screen to search for songs and if you have a playlist set up by bpm it doesn’t take you back from where you left off.
    Besides that, I love this gadget.

    [ link ]
  34. Dannyboy says:

    Please please please can you tell me the voltage range on the adaptor for idj pro, for instance if I buy one in the states (100 / 110 volts???) will it work in Thailand (same power sockets as the states but 240 volts). Is it a dual voltage unit??

    [ link ]
    • Phil Morse says:

      We don’t have one here any more to check, but you could probably buy an adaptor to suit anyway for a few dollars.

      [ link ]
      • Dannyboy says:

        Okay my friend just arrived in thailand and brought me the idj pro from bestbuy in chicago and I can confirm that it states on the box that it is dual voltage meaning it runs on a range of 100 to 240 volts. But now I have another dilemma. I am first time ipad buyer so rushed to the shops to try and pick up an ipad third generation 64gb wireless + cellular before they are pulled from shelves to make way for the ipad with retina display (ipad 4 with lightning connector) only to find out to my horror they have all been pulled from the shelves already!!! I checked out the ipad 4 with the lighting to 30 pin converter adapter was told that it Should work??? That is a big question mark hanging over the decision to buy the numark idj pro for first time ipad buyers just before Christmas who are considering buying the controller which has only been available for purchase for around about the last 10 weeks!!!! After scouring the web for hours and hours the only answer I can get from forums on the subject from a numark employee is that so far tests are proving successful??!! But have yet to certify the use of this controller with the ipad 4!!! The other answer I found was that the converter adapter from lightning to old 30 pin plug should be okay but your cant close the case at the back!!! Come on numark!!! You need to address these issues on you FAQs section of your website. If you don’t you have a deal breaker on every consumer who doesn’t have an ipad yet who is interested in your product. You only certify this product for use with iPads that you cannot but now in my part of the world at least. Come on give us a 100 percent guarantee that this product will work with ipad 4 and an adaptor. Otherwise you have just released a product with a shelve life of about 10 weeks!!!

        [ link ]
  35. Dannyboy says:

    Is there anybody out there with the new ipad 4 with lightning adapter who has tested to see if it works??? Please confirm!!!

    [ link ]
    • djLestat says:

      I too got the new iPad with the lightning connector and I’ve been waiting for an update from numark to release a solution for this rather than having an ugly adapter hanging outside the numark unit. One aspect of using an ipad and this unit or djing that attracted me is its tidiness. So I guess I won’t be buying this unit until they get a tidy solution. Cheers.

      [ link ]
  36. Aeneas says:

    can you connect to your laptop
    and how?

    [ link ]
    • Phil Morse says:

      No, you can’t.

      [ link ]
    • Edson Brito says:

      Yes, you can, BUT… as an external audio input (trough RCA cables, on the front panel). You CAN´T control the laptop with it. For that you have another devides such as N& and IDJ 3.

      why would you need to play laptop on IDJ pro for IPAD?

      [ link ]
  37. Rod Viriato says:

    New djay upgrade out now. Full Multi-routing audio for iDJ Pro now available!

    [ link ]
  38. Beating says:

    Man oh man do I have big plans! I’m going to get the IDjay pro plus the 4track for back up. This is going to be a really great end of the year for me moving foreword to the new, happy holidays people.

    [ link ]
  39. Beatking says:

    This is going to be a really hot item can’t wait!

    [ link ]
  40. Jayson says:

    Will the DJ software Mixed in key be compatible with IDJ Pro? I want to buy it if I can use it on my iPad.

    [ link ]
    • Phil Morse says:

      You’d need to tag the tunes on your main computer then upload them to your iPad with the tags included in say the Comment field, then it should be fine.

      [ link ]
  41. Andy says:

    Hi! I got this price of wonderfulness for Christmas to help really get me started at parties. I’ve used my iMac before with VirtualDJ, so I have some decent knowledge on how to Dj! What I’m wondering though, kind of a silly question, but is it possible to turn all the button lights on without “activating” the buttons? Everything works like a charm, nothing but good outcomes for me! Just wondering about the lights! Thanks!

    [ link ]
  42. dj thunder says:

    does the numark idj pro work the ios6 update now? im looking to buy the numark idj pro, but im questioning it, because i see how the ios6 doesnt work with this system

    [ link ]
    • Yes the iDJ PRo is full compatible with iOS 6 and multiu channel audio. So now you can have stereo master output and stereo cue/monitoring at the same time.

      Really love my iDJ Pro!! And really not being funny to the person moaning about storage but lets be honest, what gig are you going to play 400GB in a night?

      Preperation is the key, sorting a selection of tunes out and creating a playlist to use on the iDJ Pro is the way to go. Not only is this more organised with a set you are going to play but the mix should work well live too as you know your drop points and sections to mix into better.

      Also the iDJ Pro has an aux in so that you can connect another divice into the unit for extra flexibility!

      I was a Vinyl boy in the 80′s / 90′s, the iDJ Pro is one serious bit of kit! :)

      [ link ]
  43. Tomás Dubhghlas says:

    Does anyone have €390 lying around that they’re not using? Hahaha

    This is something obvious that some people seem to have missed but if you’re really stuck (with Internet connection) you could, realistically play off YouTube or Soundcloud, it’s not ideal all right but it gets the job done!

    This is possibly a ridiculous question but it begs asking, can I plug in an iOS device other than my iPad 3, for example an iPod touch or classic? My classic is 60gb so it’d bolster my options by a country mile in comparison with my 16gb iPad. Maybe it wouldn’t fit?

    [ link ]
  44. King says:

    Does it Work with iPad mini?

    [ link ]
  45. Stian says:

    Does it Work on iPad mini?

    [ link ]
  46. Remmy-D says:

    Hi
    I Was thinking about buying a IDJ pro
    But I was wondering if you use your mic if there are also possibility’s like A Echo or something FRo Mcing Stuff or can you control your mic with your Ipad?

    and if you Record a mix and you use the mic is it all recording toghter ?

    Hope to have a answer soon

    greatz RD

    [ link ]
  47. Dj de la dose aka beat king says:

    I would like to know if anyone did a really big gig with the idj pro? I mean like professionally..

    [ link ]
  48. Andrew r says:

    Can you use it with ipods?

    [ link ]
  49. Rob says:

    Sound guy here, total DJ N00B.

    Does this plug into a mixer after, or straight into the power amps?

    Are there any built in limiters?

    [ link ]
  50. Dj de la dose aka beat king says:

    Can you use effects while using the microphone like using delay?

    [ link ]
  51. Dj hella dose aka beat king says:

    Can you use effects while using the microphone?

    [ link ]
  52. Tim says:

    How do u use spot iffy on idj pro without using laptop

    [ link ]
  53. Tim says:

    How can u get more sound samples on this and can u link this to a laptop in any way

    [ link ]
  54. Josef says:

    Can I use my iPod touch 4g with the IDJ Pro?

    [ link ]

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