VJ

NAMM Update: Edirol introduced a new hardware/software combination that they call “a breakthrough product that integrates the flexibility of software with the hands-on ease of hardware.”

Edirol’s “motion dive .tokyo performance package” consists of the visual software “motion dive .tokyo” bundled with Edirol’s MD-P1, a dedicated control console that connects via USB. Together, this package takes visual performances to the next level using intuitive DJ mixer-like controls such as a crossfader and knobs. Read more…

NAMM 2006 Winter Show: Numark introduced the AVM02 Audio/Video Mixer. Designed for mobile DJs and clubs, the AVM02 offers a range of features for live audio/visual performances, including separate replaceable DJ crossfaders, a variety of video mixing options, two video effects sections, joystick control, multiple color background options, plus PAL and NTSC compatibility.

The AVM02’s inclusion of separate, user-replaceable DJ crossfaders for audio and video with linked mode operation and slope control provide DJs the ability to transition from song to song independently from the visuals being presented. Or if they prefer, the linked mode operation enables sound and picture to transition together. With the ability to define the fader’s slope, operators have tremendous control over every aspect of their presentation. Read more…

Holly Daggers, a video/media artist and live VJ, has add VJ Comix to her site. Superstar VJ follows her travels with Busta Rhymes, Miri Ben Ari, the All Mighty Senators and Scratch Makananiks.

Superstar VJ is a sort of blog in graphic novel format. Daggers delves into her setup, including a section on dealing with malfunctioning gear, and facing decisions like “It’s 3 hours before the show, I could do my laundry or I could fix my V4….”

Livid has introduced Virtual V4 Element. This Element turns the popular Edirol V-4 video mixer into a comprehensive control surface for Livid’s Union real-time video performance software.

Livid introduced Elements earlier this year, empowering third party developers, artists, and students with the ability to create custom “plug-ins” for Livid software. The Virtual V-4 Element is designed by Livid to take advantage of the MIDI capabilities of the video mixer and turn it into a software controller. With one MIDI cable, a V-4, and a laptop, Livid has significantly decreased the amount of gear and cables needed for live video production, while doubling the output capabilities.

“With the increasing speed and performance of personal computers, video designers are moving towards software-based video mixing with hardware based components” states Peter Nyboer, Livid’s Director of software. “The Virtual V-4 bridges the gap between the two giving both hardware and software users all the flexibility and control they need.”

The Virtual V-4 extends the functionality of the Edirol video mixer by giving it direct access to Union’s interface. Hundreds of effects parameters can be assigned to the V-4’s knobs, thousands of video files can be triggered, and live camera feeds manipulated, all in addition to the expansive set of tools and modules already available in Union. The built-in MIDI setup instantly programs an Edirol V4 for MIDI capability, reducing the need to navigate cumbersome menus.

Source: Livid Instruments

Livid has released the Tactic model “m2”, a hybrid hardware-software design. Tactic Pro 1.5 runs on almost any Macintosh computer.

“With the Tacitc m2 we’ve introduced a more powerful set of tools while keeping our hand-crafted instrument design,” states Jay Smith, President of Livid Instruments. “Our set of software tools, effects, and hardware integration further extends Livid’s ease-of-use reputation.”

The Tactic m2 hardware, which is an extension of the software’s interface, features ten sliders, six knobs, seven effects triggers, and a thirty-six movieclip bank for real-time video mixing at your fingertips. The new Tactic Pro 1.5 software allows up to four layers of effects per channel with new effects, modules, and tools.

Tactic Pro also includes Livid Elements, a new form of plug-ins released earlier this month with their popular Union VJ software. Elements allows third party developers to further extend the functionality of Tactic Pro and can be used to make custom effects, interface controls, and media sources to integrate into the software. The Tactic m2 hardware and software package has an MSRP of $899 USD and can be purchased directly from the Livid Instruments website.