Authorized Vestax Dealers: Vestax offers a manufacturer's warranty for products purchased from its authorized dealers such as DJDeals.com. In addition, Vestax from time to time, offers rebates and other special opportunities for products purchased from its authorized dealers. Vestax does NOT offer a manufacturer's warranty for products purchased from anyone who is not an authorized dealer and it does NOT offer rebates or other special opportunities for products purchased from anyone who is not an authorized dealer. Anyone who buys a Vestax product from a non-dealer is buying a product that carries no warranty and is in no way guaranteed new from Vestax.
Unauthorized Dealers: Vestax lists the authorized dealers that offer a full warranty & new product right on their website. Any website that offers Vestax products that is not listed on www.Vestax.com is not an authorized dealer.
Shipments outside the USA: Vestax USA does not authorize any USA Vestax dealer to sell or ship any Vestax product outside the USA. Any dealer that agrees to ship a Vestax product outside the USA is not an authorized dealer, and the warranty will be immediately VOID on any product shipped outside the USA.
BUYING DIRECT FROM DJDeals.com GUARANTEES A FULL WARRANTY FROM VESTAX. WE ALSO GUARANTEE THE LOWEST PRICE IN THE WORLD ON EVERY VESTAX PRODUCT, NO OTHER DEALER ON EARTH HAS EVER BEEN CAPABLE OF OFFERING A LOWER PRICE TO CONSUMERS, PERIOD.
VESTAX VCI-100 MIDI CONTROLLER
Ever since the MP3 was introduced to the music market, the share of people who utilize digital
sound data has increased exponentially, with software for remixing digital sound data following
suit. However, there weren't any interfaces that could live up to the professional DJs and
producers real time mixing. At the same time, we received many requests for Vestax to design
one. After consideration, we decided not to load a sound card in order to prevent any latency that may
be caused from processing massive sound data on the same signal line. The VESTAX VCI-100 is highly PROFESSIONAL with a JOG wheel built with sensor and control technology from our turntables.
Vestax is pleased to announce the new VCI-100 DJ MIDI controller. USB based and featuring two jog wheels with sensor and control technology from Vestax's turntables, the VCI-100 provides professional DJs and Producers with the "feel" of hardware mixing in the software realm.
Vestax has utilized its vest experience as the best DJ hardware manufacturer in the DJ market to design the only control surface that truly serves the Professional DJ/Producer's real time mixing needs. The VCI-100 provides features that blur the line between hardware mixing and software control. The chassis is roughly the size of a standard Laptop, thin but highly durable, compact, and convenient for transportation.
The key to any professional DJ set up is the quality and feel of the "platters." The JOG wheel controls on the VCI-100 are constructed with high resolution pulse sensors, touch sensors, and acrylic platter mechanisms. With this combination, operations such as pitch bending, scanning and scratching can be performed with speed and accuracy. 66 software parameters are assignable to the VCI-100's control section via USB MIDI IN/OUT.
The crossfader curve is adjustable to the user's preference and the fader movement resistance is calculated on the fly by the VCI-100's CPU as the data is streamed to the software, therefore, the crossfader curve is customizable regardless if that feature is available in a particular software package.
DJs can get up and running immediately with the included TRAKTOR LE from Native Instruments, and Vestax has created exclusive control assignment files that provide seamless and intuitive control of the TRAKTOR LE software. The VCI-100 is compatible with all software that allows MIDI control assignment and is plug & play with Apple and Windows computers.
FUNCTIONS
*//// 90 parameters of various software are assignable to the VCI-100's control section via USB MIDI IN/OUT.
*//// The JOG wheel is constructed with a high-resolution pulse sensor; touch sensor and acrylic platter mechanism. With this combination, operations such as pitch bending, scanning and scratching can be performed with speed and accuracy.
*//// The resistance value of the fader movement is AD converted and sent to the software along with curve information created by the CPU inside the VCI-100. Therefore, you can adjust the crossfader curve to your preference whether or not the software you use has curve control.
*//// The DATA SEND LED and JOG wheel SENSOR LED provides clear visual of the current status to assist in an authentic play mode in real time.
*////The power source is selectable from USB bus-power and the exclusive power adaptor. (For best performance and stable operation, please use the power adaptor if the computer's power capacity is low or if using a USB hub)
*//// There are no issues if you don't have software to operate. TRAKTOR LE (Native Instrument Inc.) is bundled to the VCI-100 with exclusive control assignment files.
*//// The VCI-100 provides simple plug & play working with Apple and Windows computers.
*//// Compatible with all software that allows MIDI control assignment. Each software's samples of MIDI control assignment files will be available at www.vestax.com soon.
*//// The metal body is almost the same size as a standard Laptop, thin but highly durable, compact and convenient for transportation.
1.Loop/Sampler section 1
Lighting Square Push Sw : 3pcs
Round small Push SW + LED : 4 set
Minimum system requirements a) Operating System
> Windows
Requires Windows XP Service Pack 2. Does not support
Windows 2000/98/Me
NOTE: DO NOT connect to a Windows2000 Professional
PC. The display will turn blue and the computer will
freeze.
> Macintosh
Supports Mac OS X 10.3.9 / 10.4.7. Does not support
previous system versions.
Multi client environments that operate the VCI-100 with
more than 1 software are not supported.
b)Hardware
> Windows
CPU Pentium III 500 MHz (Advanced CPU required for
laptops)
Memory: 256MB RAM
USB 2.0 Interface
These minimum system requirements are for the VCI-100
hardware. If the software's system requirements are
higher than the VCI-100, please prepare an advanced
operating system qualified.
> Macintosh
CPU accelerator cards are not supported. The computer
must have USB connection.
BUNDLED SOFTWARE : TRAKTOR 3 LE
2 Beat & Tempo Synchronizable Decks
> Instant Loop Function
> 4 amazing Master FX
> Integrated Beatport Store Access
> Ultra-Fast Database Browsing and iTunes-Import
> System Requirements
@Windows XP (SP2), Pentium III or Athlon 1 GHz, 512 MB RAM
@Mac OS 10.4, G4 1.5 GHz or Dual Core 1.6 GHz, 512 MB RAM
REMIX MAGAZINE REVIEW:
Sep 1, 2007 12:00 PM, BY EAN GOLDEN
The new Vestax VCI-100 DJ MIDI controller takes a giant leap forward. The latest in a recent flurry of digital DJ-targeted controllers — and the first of its kind from Vestax — offers several original features, an excellent build quality and a well-conceived design. The longtime manufacturer of quality mixers has taken its time entering the increasingly popular field of digital DJ tools, and that wait appears to have paid off. This heavily anticipated unit had many people speculating that it might just be the perfect controller, with all the tools required to mix, scratch, blend and remix using DJ software and a single controller. The VCI-100 is one of very few products that offer a professional MIDI controller with sturdy, high-quality components designed specifically for digital DJs. The touch-sensitive jog wheels also show the potential to solve the long-standing problem of tactile pitch-bending in the digital-only realm. Needless to say, as a veteran digital DJ, I was anxious to put this unit through the paces and find out if Vestax had made the perfect digital DJ controller.
WEIGHING IN
At more than 9 lb., the VCI-100 weighs significantly more than the average laptop, but this solidly constructed unit is still portable. The overall dimensions and thickness are comparable to a MacBook Pro, so you can easily slide both into a backpack or laptop bag — just make sure the strap is sturdy. Aesthetically, the VCI-100 is a real eye-pleaser, with the increasingly popular brushed-silver finish and blue LEDs highlighting the high-tech, clear jog wheels. Backlit buttons that respond to MIDI output add even more color to the lively display. MIDI controllers have at times looked more like Fisher-Price toys than professional DJ tools, so it's nice to see a unit that seems to say, “I am a real piece of gear; take my owner seriously.” The two main control areas are protected by surface plates, which list the recommended functions of the various buttons, knobs and sliders. Vestax had the foresight to make these plates removable and plans to make software-specific replacement versions. All of the controls move with a nice, sturdy feel, and they appear to be able to withstand the rigors of regular DJing in less-than-ideal environments. The knobs and faders feel smooth and are spaced properly for trouble-free playing. At first, the buttons seemed a bit stiff, but they turned out to play nicely after a little practice.
CONNECTING THE DOTS
Programming MIDI controllers can become nightmarish, especially when adapting a non-DJ controller for a DJ application. Fortunately, this clever unit was designed with DJs in mind, so out of the box the VCI-100 works very well. No drivers are required for Mac or PC, and once connected via USB, the VCI-100 functioned right away. It comes bundled with a special version of Native Instruments' Traktor LE that has been tailored to work perfectly with the hardware controls. For users of Traktor 3, Vestax has a settings file available on its Web site that makes setup a cinch. Some of the ways that Vestax chose to implement the controls required a tiny bit of manual reading, but within an hour I was able to use the controller intuitively and mix comfortably without problems. For beginning DJs or those without programming patience, the plug-and-play connectivity is a big plus. Unfortunately, those who do wish to customize the controls might find themselves frustrated. The VCI-100 does not have an editor librarian or any way to modify the data sent by the MIDI encoders. The only way to work around this oversight is with tedious programming of MIDI translators. To give you an idea, it took three programs, five hours and some serious geek work to get two buttons to directly select two effects in Traktor 3.
Although the VCI-100 ships with Traktor LE, it will work with any program out there that accepts MIDI input and MIDI Learn. A new version of MixVibes is shipping pre-mapped to VCI-100, but no other templates were available for additional software at press time. The Vestax Web site indicates that the company is working on new templates and firmware for programs, including Ableton Live, Torq and others, but for now you will have to use good old MIDI Learn.
MIXING IT UP
For those who want to mix exclusively inside their software, the VCI-100 offers several excellent features. The most significant is the digitally controlled crossfader. Independent of your software's capability, you have the option of dialing in how sharp of a curve the crossfader sends. A simple knob on the back offers variable settings, from sharp — for scratching — to smooth for more gradual mixes. The feel of the crossfader can't match some of Vestax's best hip-hop mixers, but it does have a nice, smooth action that could be compared to a Pioneer DJM-600. Two input faders have long, smooth throws with natural resistance that makes fading in and out a real joy. Having this feel to the controls really makes the experience much more tangible. Above each fader, four easy-to-grip pots are designed as 4-band EQ controls. They also have a nice resistance without being too stiff for quick EQ cuts. All of the knobs you would expect to find on a mixer are present and in a familiar layout. The only exceptions are the Master, Booth and Cue knobs that are each assigned to three tiny pots that suit functions such as panning, but not frequently adjusted settings like headphone volume and program/cue fade. Admittedly, you can always reassign those functions to larger, more accessible knobs, but there are few of those from which to choose.
A few cosmetic problems arose when testing the VCI-100 in the club. The knobs are entirely silver without any clear center indication, so a quick visual reference to check the position of, for example, the low cut proved to be nearly impossible in low light. The function markings were also hard to discern, and I frequently squinted to figure out which button did what. A simple Sharpie marker could fix both problems if you don't mind marking up a brand-new controller.
JOGGING AROUND THE BLOCK
Successfully designing a surface controller that effectively duplicates the action of a turntable has been the Holy Grail of DJ MIDI devices. The Vestax VCI-100's high-tech controllers go beyond your run-of-the-mill jog wheels and offer several key performance features packed into a single wheel. Pushing or pulling the edge or top of the wheels sends out several MIDI messages that combine to create a tactile pitch bend. The interesting part is how Vestax has merged Scratch and CD modes into one by using adjustable pressure sensors beneath the metal centers of the jog wheels. When enough pressure is applied, the VCI-100 stops sending out pitch messages and engages Scratch mode. When the pressure is released, Scratch mode turns off and the song continues playing.
In theory, this combination of technology and the high-performance crossfader could bring real scratching to the world of MIDI. When the VCI-100 first arrived, the way the unit was programmed resulted in a delay of the record-release. So rather than snapping back to playing speed almost instantly, like the way the industry-standard Technics SL-1200MK2 does, the VCI-100 ramped back up to full speed slow enough to make cueing on time nearly impossible. The good news is that this programming was tied specifically to Traktor. And as a result of this review testing, Vestax released a firmware update that corrects the problem, along with an update to Traktor LE 3.3. With both those updates installed, performance was clean, without the prior ramp-up problem. If you already have a VCI-100 and want the firmware update, you need to take it to an authorized dealer because the update will require a special cable. Otherwise, new units will have it the latest firmware installed.
That jog-wheel quirk is a symptom of the unit's positive complexity. Every control sends out many different messages that combine to create the performance you would expect. To actually program all of the functions on your own would be very tedious work, so Vestax is trying to ship the units as plug-and-play as possible to ensure the product works perfectly for everyone.
MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE
Once you spend some time with the VCI-100, you notice a lot of potential functionality under the hood. Some creative thinking from the DJ and firmware updates from Vestax could add up to a seriously deep controller. Take the jog wheels for instance: Abandon scratching entirely, and you have three powerful assignable controllers packed into one. Pressing the center can engage a stutter effect, and further scratching might increase or decrease the speed of that effect. Engage the jog-seek button, and the same combination sends out completely different data that can be connected to another effect or the looping section. Let go of using the center section as a mixer interface entirely, and suddenly you go from a shortage of controls to more than enough for even the most robust programs.
I spent many hours with the VCI-100 at the studio and in the clubs, and I was on the fence about it. At first, the weight was a big turnoff, but the VCI-100 really started to grow on me with more use. The smooth jog wheel worked wonderfully for pitch-bending, and its pressure-sensitive plates opened up a lot of cool possibilities. At the same time, I had many other ideas for the controls that were difficult to implement due to the lack of a MIDI editor. At a street price of around five bills, some may see the Vestax VCI-100 as a steep investment for a MIDI controller, as there are less-expensive options out there that offer similar controls, and sometimes a soundcard. The rock-solid build quality combined with the established reputation of Vestax, however, make it a safe investment. You may deem it a decent value considering the bundled software and dual mixer/player functionality. With a basic soundcard, premapped controls and a computer, you can be mixing tracks like a pro in no time.
Pros: Crossfader curve adjustment. Pressure-sensitive jog wheels. Backlit buttons. Excellent build quality. Bundled with Traktor LE.
TRAKTOR 3 LE VCI-100: Included with the VCI-100 as bundled software. A CD-ROM was sent to all registered users. If you don't have the CD-ROM, register now.
TRAKTOR 3.2: All tested. Download the TKS file (control assignment file) traktor32vci-100.tks for better performance.
A TKS file includes control assign information for TRAKTOR control parameters to work with MIDI controller functions.
PCDJ Series: Testing. Firmware and control assignment files are being made.
NEW!! VESTAX VCI-100 MIXVIBES EDITION NOW AVAILABLE!
The VCI-100 is a high end USB 2.0 MIDI-Controller with a full 90 MIDI parameter controls. It allows you to reproduce afull analogue DJ booth experience and offers all the functionalities used by DJs around the world: Tempo, Volume Control, a high end cross fader and more advanced MIDI customizable functions such as looping, sampler activation andeffect implementation.
The VCI-100 boasts the best of what is available in terms of digital jog wheel technology allowing DJs of all levels toexperience a wholesome beat matching and scratching feel. Enjoy total portability thanks with this USB powered device. DJs can also choose to use a power supply to lighten the USB power load (9V=, 500mA).
A constantly updated and improved MIDI mapping allows you to enjoy the VCI-100 MixVibes edition to its full potential in but a few minutes!
1. Automatic or manual loop implementation.
2. Pitch, Master Tempo or Key tuning +/- 100%
3. Real feel Jog Wheels for beat matching and scratching.
4. Play, CUE, Vinyl Effect, brake and auto loop.
5. High end Crossfader.
6. Selection between Jog, Reverse or Pitch Function.
7. Integrated 4-Pad Sampler with volume and effect level.
8. Monitor output level (headphones).
9. Frequency kills, VST Effect output level.
10. Gain output level.
11. Navigation in the MixVibes media base & Media Fast Load.
12. SYNC : BPM Synchronization
VIDEO CONTROLMixVibes PRO advanced video functionalities allows you to enjoy all the PRO features exactly as with audio files:Samples, Loops, Effects, Crossfader, Pitch Bend, etc…
FULL MIXVIBES The VCI-100 MixVibes offers the full MixVibes PRO software with no restrictions. Easily switch to vinyl or CD DJingthanks to the time-coded vinyl and HDCD compatibility.
THE NEW VESTAX VCI-100 MIXVIBES EDITION INCLUDES:
Full version of MixVibes,
VCI-100, and the
MixVibes Plates for the VCI-100
VESTAX WARRANTY INFORMATION:
To initiate a warranty repair, you should contact Vestax USA directly at 800-994-4984
