Across the Fader DJ Battle Round 4 (Pre-elim's)

Last weds. we had our fourth round pre-elims.

Advancing from this round is DJ's Jeffrey One, & Lenny Ducano (watch video, for his insane body tricks).

So Far the finalist are
1. Moded
2. 1Nemcis
3. Dynamix
4. Kid Cut Up
5. Dini
6. Gingee
7. Lenny Ducano
8  Jeffrey One

Our last battle is on August 15th (with try outs on August 4th) then its off to the finals, which if your in the L.A. area you don't want to miss this!!

Check the video from our round 4 below


Video streaming by Ustream

X Games 2012 / Battle try-outs this Sat.

Last Sunday,

Davey got the chance to perform @ X Games 2012 w/ Pigeon John & Flynn Adam. This was at the http://www.so-gnar.com/ / ford stage.

Astro was gracious enough to hook up the So Gnar guys with a quick Technics & TTM57 setup. As well as a JBL monitor setup. Astro's gear was used by Murs, DJ Keebz, Qbert, Duffle Bag Divas, & Mike Menert (pretty lights music).

Check out Rootbeers (Pigeon John, Flynn Adam, Davey Rockit's) video from Sunday



Also, Saturday (July 7th) is our DJ battle try-outs. Be sure to enter/sign-up for your chance to win $10,000 in prizes. As always, contact us @

Astro AVL
6615 San Fernando Rd.
Glendale, CA 91201
or (818) 549-9915

Across the Fader Round 3 recap

Last night was round 3 of our Across the Fader pre-elims.

We saw alot of competitors from the previous rounds compete this time as well as some new comers.

It was another heated battle, they seem to get better and better each round. Our judges DJ Fuse, DJ Los, & DJ Serafin really had some constructive criticism to give the contestants. DJ Gingee & DJ Dini advanced to the finals leading into a sudden death round leaving Dini in 1st and Gingee in 2nd.

Check out the video below


Live video from your iPhone using Ustream

So far the competitors advancing to the finals are
1. DJ 1Nemcis
2. DJ moded
3. Dynamics
4. Kid Cut Up
5. Dini
6. Gingee

The next try out is July 7th and pre-elim on July 18. As always contact us @ Astro AVL 6615 San Fernando Rd. Glendale, CA 91201 or (818) 549-9915 to sign up.

Across The Fader Pre-Elims this Weds 6/13/12

It's that time again, this Weds we will be having our Round 3 of the pre-elims.

So far competing we have DJ's Questions, Gev, Patch, Super J, Gingee, Dini, Magnus, Jeffrey 1, GC, & Artimus.

Our special guest judges will be DJ Serafin, DJ Los (power 106), & DJ Fuse (power 106).

As always you can watch the battle live at our UStream Page @ http://www.ustream.tv/user/astroavl

Power 106, Fox News 11, and some of L.A's best food trucks out front.

Stop by and support your local DJ's, admission is free.

Astro AVL
6615 San Fernando Rd.
Glendale, CA 91201
or (818) 549-9915

Astro DJ battle coverage on Fox 11 News

Last night, Fox 11 aired their coverage of our Across the Fader DJ battles. They will also be filming during the rest of our battles.



Astro would also like to thank Fox News 11, Power 106, Mackie, Rane, & Pioneer DJ for their help, as well as all the competitors.

DJ Gear Review: Pioneer HDJ-1500 headphones

The Pioneer HDJ-1500's arrived in the shop today. Lucky for you, we unboxed a pair to review for your enjoyment.

Upon opening the headphones I quickly noticed the removable headphone jack & included bag (just like the previous HDJ-1000). Pioneer also stepped up their "comfort game" with super padded ear pads.

This is an added plus, with most gigs lasting up to 3 hours headphones tend to start hurting the tops of your ears after the first hour. This is not the case with the Pioneer DJ HDJ-1500's. 

Pioneer used the same headphone cord as their HDJ-500 model. The end of the cord is threaded with a locking pin on the sides of the cable, ensuring that the cable will not be "pulled-out" of the phones.

The hindges connecting the cups to the headband seem to be made from the same materials as the HDJ-2000 models, which is an extra heavy-duty plastic. The band itself is extremely flexable & well made.

As we tested the audio quality, we couldn't help but compair them to the HDJ-2000's. The bass was great! Plus added highs & mids make them great for the studio, or in the club. It specs @ Frequency range: 5Hz — 30kHz, Impedance: 32Ω, Maximum input: 3500mW, & Output sound level: 108dB.

With a US map pricing of $179.00 I highly reccomend these headphones for the beginner, pro, or studio producer. As always you can pick these up @ the shop located at Astro AVL 6615 San Fernando Rd. Glendale, CA 91201 or (818) 549-9915

For more info on the HDJ-1500 you can visit Pioneer @ http://www.pioneerdjusa.com/gear.aspx?product=HDJ-1500&cp=6

- Davey Rockit, Astro AVL

Across The Fader 2 pre-elims, Round 2 (recap)

Last nights battle once again was super heated! For those who missed, you can watch the entire battle below.

All the competitors brought their A game, and we also had some of L.A's best in the house battling. Dynamix (redbull thre3style, & king of L.A champ) & Kid Cut Up took 1st and 2nd place.

Astro would like to thank our Sponsors Pioneer DJ, Mackie, and Rane for providing prizes, as well as Power 106 for bringing their team to rock & give out goodies!

If you haven't tried out, the next round is June 2nd and Pre-Elims June 13th. So far advancing to the Finals we have DJ 1Nemcis, DJ Moded, DJ Dynamix, & Kid Cut Up. Only 6 more competitors will advance.

Check out Last nights video below




Stream videos at Ustream
As always there is still time to sign up. Call or stop by the shop @ Astro AVL 6615 San Fernando Rd. Glendale, CA 91201 or (818) 549-9915 ask for DJ Toxic!

DJ Qbert @ Astro AVL 1997

This was filmed back in 1997 in what is now our lighting show room. I love how Q starts this session how with a raw scratch solo then the beat drops. Qbert has been a big supportor of astro , including being one of our DJ school Mix Labs first sponsors. Enjoy and be sure to check Qbert out @ www.thudrumble.com

DJ Battle Tryouts this Sat. 5/5/12 @ 11:00 - 2:00 pm

Think you got what it takes to win $10,000 in prizes? This Saturday we will be holding our 2nd round Try-Outs for DJ's to advance to the pre-elims.

Give us a visit @ Astro AVL 6615 San Fernando Rd. Glendale, CA 91201 or (818) 549-9915 ask for Toxic.

Last battle was insane, so don't miss out.

Astro Across The Fader DJ Battle 2 (recap)

Last night we held our monthly Across the Fader battle. This was a pre-eliminary with two contestants advancing to our finals.

It was a heated battle, with DJ 1Nemcis & DJ Moded advancing to the semi-finals. All 10 of the competitors brought their A game, making it one of our best battles to date. You can watch the stream of it below


Video streaming by Ustream


The way our battle works ( to breakdown any confusion ) is this.

Try-Outs - 10 contestants advance to pre-elims, any number of contestants can compete
Pre-Elims - 2 contestants advance to semi-finals

We hold 5 of these rounds (each have a try-out, & pre-elim) , leaving 10 contestants to duke it out in the Semi-Finals.

Semi-Finals consist of one battle, leaving 3 DJ's to advance to the final round.

Final round winner, will win $10,000 worth of gear provided by Pioneer, Mackie, Korg, Rane, AMDJ, & many more.

Who was your favorite DJ of the night? Discuss below.

4/21/12 Record Store Day @ Backside Burbank

Attn DJ's: This Saturday is Record Store Day!!! Astro & Backside Records will be hosting a event at Backside Burbank all day.

Mixlab students will be performing and graduating Saturday 2 - 4 pm. Special deals will also be available only at Backside. Guest Dj's include C-Minus (beat junkies), DJ Vick One (power 106), Mr. Choc (Soul Assassins/Beat Junkies), mixlabs own Davey Rockit & special guest DJs.

Record Store Day 4/21/12 Backside Burbank (backsideonline.com) only happens once a year. Artist produce limited runs of vinyl records that can only be purchased on that day. For the full list of whats being released this year, visit http://www.recordstoreday.com/ .

4/21/12 10am -10pm Backside Burbank 139 N San Fernando Blvd. Burbank, CA 91502 (mixlab performances from 2 - 4pm ) there will also be BBQ and free food.

2 Pac Returns from the Grave @ Coachella 2012

The news the past few weeks has been filled with reports of Dr. Dre using a hologram of Nate Dogg in his performance.

Last night we learned it was actually 2 Pac!! The second 2Pac appeared on stage, the audience is ghost quiet.

(Pac's performance start around the 16:00 min mark)
 
Dr. Dre & Snoop Dogg (Live at Coachella, 2012)... by coachellasets

Amazing show, and Snoop as always kills it! Dr. Dre also brought out 50 cent, Eminem, Wiz Khalifa, and Kendrick Lamar for the show.

White CDJ-2000 service announcement

Please be advised that we have a service issue on the CDJ-2000-W. In a nutshell, when the CDJ-2000-W is used in bright sunlight, or potentially in bright incandescent light as well, playback of music may go in reverse without any action by the user.

Using the link below, please see the entire service announcement that is up on our site. It gives detailed instructions on what a customer needs to do if they have these units.

http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/ephox/StaticFiles/PUSA/Files/ProDJ/CDJ-2000-WNotice_040412.pdf

For any of our customers who have purchased these through us, contact the shop @
Astro AVL
6615 San Fernando Rd.
Glendale, CA 91201
or (818) 549-9915

Across the Fader DJ Battle Recap.

So last Saturday we had our 2nd annual Across the Fader DJ battle.

Our friends at the Crossfader Show did a great ustream video recapping the days event.


Video streaming by Ustream

Thanks to all the competitors who entered. Next up is April 25th, so be sure to check it out!!

Diplo Documentary

Found this posted today on DJTechTools.com

This is inspiring to see a day in the life of Diplo, and what it takes to be a successful DJ. Whether you want to believe it or not, to DJ full time is more than a 9-5 job. Mornings start early if there is PR (i.e. radio interviews, press interviews, tv shows, & ect), by the time the show is over it's on to the next city, country, or venue.

This short documentary shows you only a lil' piece of that, but informative never the less.

April 7th (This Saturday) Across the Fader Try-Outs

This time is here again,

This Saturday we are having our Astro Across the Fader DJ Battle Try-Outs ( thats alot to say in one sentence).

Come by the shop to see which DJ will advance to win $10,000 in prizes.

Here's the info:

You wanna win? You gotta try out first. Sign up for free try-outs by March 24th and receive $5 off your entrance fee when you qualify. Try-outs will be held April 7th (starting @ 11am ) in our showroom in front of a panel of judges.

Each person will have 2 minutes to qualify. The full battle will consist of 4 rounds, a semi-final, and a championship round where the grand prize will be awarded.

For more info contract Lisa or Sako @ Astro AVL 6615 San Fernando Rd. Glendale, CA 91201 or (818) 549-9915.

Sicwax Half & Half Timecode Vinyl

Sicwax ( who also makes Sicmats ) came out with a clever new timecode record, the first of its kind actualy.

One side is Sir Otto and the other being Tractor, get it? They come in the same dope colorways that the others make, but without the immediate sell outs, and the insane eBay prices.

The vinyl itself is weighted perfectly, not to mention the record material has a soft high quality feel that others fail to miss.

Currently we have the Pure Clear ($20 each), Glow-n-Dark ($50 each), Fluorescent Pink ($20 each), & Fluorescent Orange ($20 each).

Come by the shop to check them out, Astro AVL 6615 San Fernando Rd. Glendale, CA 91201 or (818) 549-9915

C2C (France Team World DMC Champs) Musical Scratching

C2C ( stands for Coup to Cross) is one of France's leading turntablist team/band.

What makes them stand apart from most DJ crews, is that all the sounds and songs they perform they produce themselves, then they layout all the individual sounds to each record to scratch an compose.

This video is a spitting-image of what you can expect from C2C, not to mention its a dope innovative video.

Enjoy.

Serato Video for Itch & Scratch Live is now available

Earlier this week Serato released their newest video companion "Serato Video".

This is their follow-up to Video-SL with some major improvements. The first of those being, you can now mix Video with ALL of Seratos Itch controllers.

They've also completely rebuilt its software architecture, which means improved stability and less bugs.

You can get more info here @ seratos official website http://serato.com/video

New products coming out for 2012

Two new products were annouced last week, Pioneer's RMX-1000 & Vestax's VCI-380.

First up is Pioneer's RMX-1000, a Remix Station/Fx station. Unlike its predecessors the EFX-500 and EFX-1000 this is designed to completly change how your track sounds, breakdowns, and build-ups. Watch the video to see it in action

The compact and portable RMX-1000 allows users free control of musical developments with intuitive operation. Four sections of the device are arranged with easy-to-control knobs and buttons that control multiple effect parameters. By combining the effects from each section, wider arrangements with greater individuality can be performed with ease.

Expect this to release in the next few months, with an msrp of $999.00

...............................................................................................................................................................

Next up is Vestax's VCI-380, a follow-up to the legendary VCI-300. It acts as a 4 channel mixer (for hooking up CDJ's or Turntables) as well as a 2 deck controller for Serato Itch. Its platters have a LED light underneath to show your cue marker.

It's Improved faders, outputs, and deck control features will surely grab the attention to pros & beginners.

ETA & Cost is unknown, but will release this year.

As always, you can pre-order or purchase the Pioneer RMX-1000 at the shop

Astro AVL
6615 San Fernando Rd.
Glendale, CA 91201
or (818) 549-9915

Mixlab Student Review



This week were going to upload some videos and mixes from our recent graduates. After our students graduate, we ask them to fill out a anonymous review. Below is one of those reviews.

Why did you originally sign up for this course?:
2 To Improve My DJ Skills
Comments:

Did the course meet your expectations?:
2 Well
Comments:

How would you assess the course content?:
1 Very Good
Comments:

How would you assess the instructor's communication?:
1 Very Good
Comments:

How would you assess the instructor's knowledge of the material?:
1 Very Good
Comments:

If you had any questions in the class were they answered?:
1 Perfectly
Comments:

Did the course seem well organized?:
1 Perfectly
Comments:

Was the course length sufficient for learning the skills entailed in the course outline?:
1 Yes
Comments:

Was the class length sufficient for learning the skills outlined in the lesson?:
1 Yes
Comments:

Was class schedule convenient?:
1 Yes
Comments:

Was the class environment fun and enjoyable?:
1 Agree
Comments:

Did the quality of the equipment meet your expectations?:
1 Perfectly
Comments:

The class difficulty was appropriate for the course level?:
1 Strongly Agree
Comments:

I would recommend this course to someone else?:
1 Yes

For more info on Mixlab visit us @ Astro Mix Lab 6615 San Fernando Rd. Glendale, CA 91201 or (818) 549-9915

Astro Special!! B-Stock Numark NS7 for $999.00 w/ 1yr warrenty

Every once and a while we get a handfull of b-stock NS7's. What is B-Stock? B-Stock has been opened by the factory and tested for quality control. Once item passes QC ratings companys re-package the unit for sale.

The best part is you (the customer) gets the item for hundreds off the price, plus the security of a full year warrenty.

Since being released almost 3 years ago, the NS7 is still the #1 DJ'ing controller on the market. Nothing comes close as far as the "true vinyl feel".

Above is a video we made when the NS7 was first released, & below is a freestyle recorded with my phone as the shop was closing.

Stop by the shop to pick up yours, $999.00.

Astro AVL / Astro Mix Lab

6615 San Fernando Rd.

Glendale, CA 91201

(818) 549-9915

Rane 62 visits the Do Over, New Zealand

The L.A. homies at the Do Over, recently visited New Zealand to bring their LA vibe to the far west.

With suprise guest J Rocc (Beat Junkies) & DJ Day, they premiered the newest addition to the Rane/Serato family the Rane 62 mixer.

The 62 is shipping to the shop this week!! Give us a call for our best price.

Astro AVL

6615 San Fernando Rd.

Glendale, CA 91201

or

(818) 549-9915

 

Mixlab visits John Burroughs High School

On Friday March 9th, Astro Mix Lab visited JBHS in Burbank for their annual career day.

Mixlab hoped to inspire students with the art of DJ'ing, and gave special discounts to JBHS students.

We'd like to thank JBHS for bringing us out again, and their student body for the positive feed back.

(above, Davey Rockit rocking the NS7)

(above, Nick scouts the crowd & emcees the event, while students watch)

Astro Mix Lab has had over 1,000 beginner students with a 90% success rate. Learn how to DJ in 4 weeks (no joke).

Astro Mix Lab

6615 San Fernando Rd.

Glendale, CA 91201

or

(818) 549-9915

or

http://www.astromixlab.com/

An introduction to our staff (part.1) Maxwell Jackson / Security

Maxwell Quincy Hendrix Jackson or Max has been with Astro since December of 2011. Dealing with high-end electronics a business needs to be protected at all times. So naturally Max was the man for the job.

When he's not patrolling the store, you'll find him in the office keeping a steady eye on our cameras.

Max's favorite DJ's include: Daft Punk, Jam Master Jay, Eric B, and Astro's own Lisa Fayth, mixlabs Young Slade, DJ Toxic, & Tim Kane.

Mention code word: (MAX) for 10% off a Mixlab DJ lesson.

valid for one Mixlab lesson, limited to 1 per customer,

not combinable w/ other specials or coupons 

New Pioneer DJM-850 mixer releasing in March!

Pioneer DJ is releasing the DJM-850 in March this year. This mixer is Pioneers answer to the now-discontinued DJM-800, and well as offers another solution other than the DJM-T1, or DJM-900NXS.

Below are some of it's features:

• Variety of EffectsThe DJM-850 follows Pioneer’s traditional mixer layout, featuring a variety of advanced sound
effects that provide DJs with virtually limitless possibilities when mixing their music. Pioneer
includes a new BEAT COLOR FX function, which changes effects by linking the audio input
from each channel.

• New Beat Color FX - Users can quickly change between the new Beat Color FX and
Sound Color FX to suit each tune for further remixing and sound capabilities. By
activating the Beat Color FX, users are able to manipulate the Sound Color FX and
Beat Effect simultaneously, resulting in more creative effects that complement the beat
of the music.



• Built-in 24bit/96kHz High Performance USB Soundcard - An integrated high
performance USB sound card enables up to four inputs/outputs1 simultaneously with
no deterioration in sound quality. The sound card supports three different sampling rates
(96kHz/48kHz/44.1kHz) and the ASIO/Core Audio standards that can also be used for
music recording and production. The USB port on top of the mixer provides quick
connections to use DJ software via laptop. The signal output path from the mixer can be
easily modified using its setup utility tool3 via a computer.

• TRAKTOR SCRATCH 2 Certified - The DJM-850 offers compatibility to the Scratch Control (DVS) with Native Instrument’s TRAKTOR
SCRATCH PRO 2/DUO 2 software. Using the timecode disc bundled with the software
and a PC, the DJM-850 is ready for scratch control (DVS) with a CDJ player or Vinyl turntable.
Additional Features

• MIDI Signal - Operation information of the mixer’s knobs and buttons can be transmitted
as a MIDI for a “Full Ensemble MIDI” function to control other connected devices.

• Switching 3-Band EQ/Isolator - Each channel of the mixer is equipped with a
switchable 3-band EQ (+6dB to -26dB) and 3-band isolator (+6dB to -∞dB)

• P-LOCK Fader Cap - Keeps the fader channel and crossfader knobs (caps) locked,
preventing them from physically slipping off during heavy use.

• Scratch Control - Scratch control is possible by using the time code disc7 bundled with
DJ software supporting DVS (Digital Vinyl System)6 from CDJ players and vinyl turntables.



Item ships in March, available in black & silver, Maps @ $1,699.00.

- Davey Rockit
Astro AVL / Astro Mix Lab

World Premier!! Gator Cases G-Tour DJ Arm (Laptop Stand)

Gator Cases have annouced their newest product. The G-Tour DJ Arm.

 

"The Arm" is the 1st laptop stand with 360 degree horizontal adjustment. Usually I would go in-depth about this stand, but Gators video below does all the explaining.

Gator has also made a desk mountable version of this stand called  (G-DJARM-360-DESKMT). These stands can also hold some serious weight (ie: computer monitors).

Product starts shipping in the next 4 weeks with a retail of $149.99 MAP for case mount version &
$159.99 MAP for desk mount version.

- Davey Rockit

Astro AVL / Astro Mix Lab

Across the Fader 2012

It's that time again, Across the Fader 2 is starting April 7th. This year will have even bigger prizes, and a all star panel of Judges.

Here's the details:

You Wanna Win?

You gotta try out first. Sign up by March 14th and receive $5 off your entrance
fee when you qualify.
Try-outs will be held April 7th at Astro in front of a panel of Judges. Each person will have 2 minutes to show why they deserve a chance to win BIG.

For more info contact Lisa Fayth @ lisaf@astroavl.com or stop by the shop @
Astro AVL 6615 San Fernando Rd. Glendale, CA 91201 or (818) 549-9915
Sign Up Today!!!

Check out last years winner DJ Sku's winning routine.

Akai's MPC-FLY for iPad shipping soon!

Game Changer Alert!!

I'm sure this is old news for some, but Akai has developed the MPC-FLY for apples iPad. This allows mpc users to make beats anywhere!

Unlike its "portable" predisessor the MPC-500, this allows the same work-flow as the original mpc-2000 and introduces the mpc fly ipad app software.

The case itself has an Internal Li-ion battery, 6VDC/3A AC adaptor for charging MPC Fly and iPad2, as well as the classic MPC buttons you'd expect from Akai.

We look forward to this coming out, product ETA ships in March.

- Davey Rockit
Astro AVL / Astro Mix Lab

Pioneer DJ Tokyo Visits Astro

Pioneer DJ & Astro AVL have a long-standing relationship. With todays market filled with "corporate" chain-stores, it's nice to see one of the worlds biggest DJ companies stay loyal to shops like us.

Aside from having some of the best reps in the business, Pioneer DJ truly values the opinions of working DJs. We would like to thank Pioneer's product planner Kota Hirayama & company for stopping by and valuing our opinions & business. You can check out Pioneers current product list @ http://www.pioneerdj.com/

- Davey Rockit Astro AVL / Astro Mix Lab

Mixlab News!!! Current 101 Schedule for Itch & Serato

Since opening mid-2009 in L.A's Original DJ Shop Astro AVL, Astro Mix Lab has taught over 1,000 students with a 90% success rate (meaning our student's immediately start professionally DJ'ing and making money after finishing course).

Private lessons are $75.00 for 1 hour and 30 minute lesson.

You can book a private lesson on any these days

We will teach you with Serato how to, Setup/Calibrate, Shortcuts, Looping, FX, Cue Points, and how to utilize those features with mixing & scratching.

all gear provided courtesy of Pioneer DJ, Numark, Serato, & Thud Rumble. Just bring your laptop w/ music.

ASK FOR DAVEY ROCKIT
www.astromixlab.com
Astro AVL 6615 San Fernando Rd. Glendale, CA 91201 or (818) 549-9915

They're Here!!! White CDJ-2000's & DJM-900 nexus

Extremely Limited (Only 500 sets made, not 1000), we have 3 sets available. The complete set runs $5,797.00 US, and can only be purchased as a set.

Give us a call/visit as always @ Astro AVL 6615 San Fernando Rd. Glendale, CA 91201 or (818) 549-9915 or http://www.astromixlab.com/ or http://www.astroavl.com/

- Davey Rockit
Astro AVL / Astro Mix Lab

Technics SL-1200mk2 vs Numark TTX-USB

Technics 1200's vs. Numark TTX-USB

We did this video live for our annual across the fader DJ battle. The video focuses on the pros and cons of Numarks TTX turntables vs Technics legendary SL1200

Also if interested we have the Numark TTX listed on craigslist @
Numark TTX-USB on Astro's Craigslist

- Davey Rockit

Astro AVL / Astro Mix Lab

DJ Vajra & Z-trip showcase @ Rane Booth NAMM 2012

The new serato/Rane 61 - 62 / 62-Z mixers are shipping last week of Feb/ 1st week of March, pre-order now!!

The Rane 61 features a serato interface built-in, fx sends/returns, and very high end filter knob. You can also utlize serato/ableton "the bridge" features in this as well for mixtape and live modes.

The Rane 62 features improved cue/sp-6 buttons, a grip of bomb FX, and two USB 2 ports to switch out from one DJ to another.

The Rane 62-Z features a custom shepard fairey (obey) design and custom matching rca cables.

Rane 61 maps @ $1,399.00 US , 62 maps @ $1,999.00 , and limited-edition 62-Z @ $2,099.00.

As always give us a call or visit at Astro AVL 6615 San Fernando Rd. Glendale, CA 91201 or (818) 549-9915.

- Davey Rockit
Astro AVL / Astro Mix Lab

Cypress Hill Smoke Out March 3rd 2012

The homies & long time customers Cypress Hill have the annual Smoke Out festival coming up March 3rd with a serious line-up!

 

With a show that has Rusko, Wiz, the Low End Theory Crew, Mobb Deep, Cypress & Muggs why on earth would you want to miss this? SA ALL DAY!

Check out my Soul Assassins Radio mix below.



Davey Rockit - Live on Soul Assassins Radio (Shade45) 9-22-11 by Davey Rockit

Current eBay Store Specials

New from NAMM 2012, Akai EIE audio interface

New product from NAMM 2012

Akai's EIE (Electronic Interface Expander) just arrived in the shop. This audio interface is designed with the electronic producer in mind, hence the name.

With artist winning Grammy’s by producing albums entirely from a laptop some plug-ins, and a controller, the EIE is a perfect match for today’s generation of super-producers.

Features:

First off the EIE is built like a tank (no cut corners in the material department) and features a 3-port USB hub on the back of the interface. This was a smart move

on Akai's part, and as far as we know the first interface of its kind. This is great for MAC users who are limited to just 2 USBs on their laptop, and avoids the extra mess

of buying a USB hub.

The front of the interface features Analog VU meters, which for producers is "butter" to accurately see the output meter of your master output. It also features 4 XLR / 1/4" combo jacks to input your instruments, mics, or DJ setup.

The back of the interface features 4 audio 1/4" outputs (great for multiple monitor setups) and 4 audio 1/4"  inserts (great for MPC users who want to track i.e.: drums, bass, melody, & ect. at once and multi-track them simultaneously). As well as midi in & outs.

Product Testing:

We ran the EIE in Ableton Live 8 Suite with an original style Macbook Pro (2.3 ghz Intel Core2Duo, 4gb ram, 120gb HD). We got the USB Buffer (sample rate) down to 167 samples with a 0.7 ms latency, which is really good.

With the bulk of newer interfaces using DSP audio for direct monitoring with no latency, the EIE comes in surprisingly fast. So if you need to track vocals, your vocalist can monitor their voice with no latency.

The mic-pres sound extremely good, and having the analog VU meter is a nice addition to seeing accurate levels.

Overall:

With a MSRP of $299.00 US, you can’t beat the quality, build, and sound of this interface. If you’re an upcoming electronic producer and need low latency, crisp audio quality, expandability, and a USB hub. This is the interface for you.

Visit us at the shop to pick up yours today! Astro AVL 6615 San Fernando Rd. Glendale, CA 91201 (818) 549-9915 or visit our ebay store @ http://www.astroavl.com/.

- Davey Rockit, Astro AVL LA’s Original DJ Shop

Astro's own Douglas Kane releases classic Hip Hop mix

Doug, who's been with Astro since 2008, released a classic Hip Hop Mix this week featuring groups from Pete Rock & CL Smooth to a Tribe Called Quest.

New White Pioneer CDJ-2000 & DJM-900 Nexus (set) arriving soon!

NAMM 2012 in Anaheim, CA

Pioneer DJ introduces a very exclusive limited to 500 sets of CDJ-2000's and DJM-900 nexus.

Since the beginning Astro AVL & Pioneer DJ have had a long standing relationship ( our sales staff has giving conceptual ideas to there products, & Pioneer sponsors Astro Mix Lab ) and we will be receiving a very limited number of these sets.

For more info & pricing, give us a call @ Astro AVL / Astro Mix Lab (818) 549-9915 or visit us @ 6615 San Fernando Rd. Glendale, CA 91201.

Getting Started

  Greetings, soon to be viewers. Just getting started, expect a steady feed of DJ news, videos, music, reviews, store updates, and specials to come. If you've never been to our physical store please visit us Astro AVL 6615 San Fernando Rd. Glendale, CA 91201 or (818) 549-9915 or http://www.astroavl.com/.

  We are L.A's original DJ shop and have been serving the Los Angeles DJ community since 1974. Our school Astro Mix Lab (which this will be a hub for mixlab updates as well) has been open for 2 years and already have taught over a thousand students. For the meantime visit us @ http://www.astromixlab.com/