Roland DJ-808 brings the DJ and Production world closer
Roland just announced firmware updates for their Serato DJ controller range, namely the DJ-808, DJ-505 and DJ-202.
The updates add new drum sounds and unique effects.
Roland’s release of Serato DJ Controllers set the DJing and production world ablaze; the controllers incorporate features from Roland’s famous AIRA series, most notably being the TR-S “808” style step-sequencer and drum machine, and “VT” Vocal Transformer engine.
The Roland DJ-808 is the flagship model in the range.
It features the above-mentioned sequencer and vocal engine, alongside full four-deck control over Serato, four channels of FX, an integrated DVS-ready audio interface, and USB Host inputs for connecting other Roland AIRA devices.
The DJ-505 is Roland’s mid-tier DJ Controller, featuring a more compact layout aimed more towards DJs. It still offers the TR-S sequencer, four-deck control via “deck select” functions and DVS-ready audio interface.
Roland’s DJ-202 represents their entry into the DJ controller world, it’s the perfect controller for traditional DJ’s while offering a host of expanded features. The Sequencer and other advanced functions are hidden using macro functions, as to save on much needed real estate.
Roland’s new updates bring even more production elements to the DJ booth
The Roland DJ-202 and DJ-505’s drum sample libraries have been widely expanded, while the DJ-808 received a few new sounds.
The DJ-505 and DJ-808 each received three new Master FX, while the DJ-808 received the most anticipated upgrade of all, Tap Tempo and Nudge functions for the TR-S step sequencer.
The new nudge and Tap Tempo functions on the DJ-808’s TR-S sequencer boosts the flexibility in a live environment, giving the user the ability to create off-beat rhythms and grooves. Before the update, DJs were using the workaround of nudging the track decks in and out of sync, this could be a nerve-racking experience, as one wrong move could result in the entire mix ending in a train-smash.
For more:
Roland website