You know you have seen it. Late night, flipping through channels...maybe a temper tantrum by a young debutante kept you watching...maybe you just want to see what life is like for 16-year-olds who are lucky enough to have a blow-out for their birthday that you are never likely to have for any reason.
Turns out that Spinderella's daughter Christy was turning 16 and MTV was all over it. Since Spinderella is one of d.Pro Series endorsed artists, we were more than happy to help her out.
The party was themed as an 80's skating party, but the highlight of the even was Christy's debut on the turntables. Christy used a Mackie d.2 Pro DJ Production Console for the occasion and the crowd was really into her performance. She got some training from her mom for the event, but it was obvious that there was natural talent that could no be denied.
d.Pro Series endorsed artists Arabian Prince, MoDave and (of course) DJ Spinderella manned the tables for most of the evening, impressing the crowd at every turn.
Fools Garden, a German band, released “Lemon Tree” in 1995, catapulting them to the top of the charts internationally. “Lemon Tree” was translated into over 40 languages and has sold over six million copies. Since that time, Fools Garden has played concerts all over the world to audiences as large as 100,000.
Their most recent concert series is completely unplugged, a fairly common tour for a band of this caliber to embark upon. When their engineer, Steffan Ruthof, had to compile a gear list for the world tour, he thought of Mackie.
“One of the most important factors for the choice of a mixing console was that it needed to be high-quality, ultra-compact and, of course, deliver reliable hardware and software,” remarked Ruthof. “It was also very important to record shows with the least possible effort…so it didn’t take long to discover the Mackie TT24. We knew that the Mackie preamps have always been very good and the optical ADAT I/O seemed to have been made for us.”
Mackie’s TT24 is a fully digital 24-bit/96kHz mid-sized console which gives engineers full automation and recall of levels, EQ, effects, routing and more. And unlike other digital consoles, designed primarily as recording desks, the TT24 puts gobs of standard analog and digital I/O right on the rear panel. Not to mention being far easier to learn and use by the average live sound engineer.
Ruthof continues, “The TT24 is really intuitive. After a short period of time, I was able to handle the desk effortlessly. It’s a powerful, reliable and compact digital desk. Working with it is really fun!”
We couldn’t have said it better ourselves.
Fools Garden’s Unplugged tour has been extended into 2009. Check out their website for tour dates. If you would like to learn more about the TT24, including the DS3232 Digital Snake and the all-new Dolby Lake Processing Card, please visit the TT System32 site.
DJ Sid Wilson of Slipknot (longstanding d.2 Pro endorsee and generally scary dude) contacted Mackie before the tour started, looking for some gear for what is definitely the most aggressive after-party DJ setup Mackie has ever heard of. So, we gathered up a robust set of Mackie loudspeakers and a couple of d.2 Pro mixers and drove them down to the amphitheater the day before the show.
For the tour, Sid will be traveling in a 37 foot Damon Outlaw motor coach, which opens up from the back to unveil a full-on DJ set-up which is perfect for the backstage after-party. When opened up and fully-decked out, this is a formidable setup that is tremendously powerful, offering tons of low end thanks to four S410s Precision Passive Subwoofers. Two S408’s were used for the top boxes, and the whole system was powered with two M3000 and two M2000 Stereo Power Amplifiers. DJ Sid uses the d.2 Pro Production Mixer for his sessions and and SRM450v2 for his booth monitor.
So, it would seem that the show is never quite over during the Mayhem festival. If you are lucky enough to get some backstage passes for the tour, make sure to stop by the RV, say hi to DJ Sid (although it is doubtful he will hear you over the massive Mackie system!)
Erik Rico
(Skilled producer, solid Sound Designer)
What made you become a DJ?
After years of bringing in DJs to scratch on various hip-hop projects, producing and dealing with scheduling conflicts, I purchased my first turntable. Then, before I knew it, I got a second one and started playing out (after checking other DJ's in the scene and feeling that my musical tastes and skills were up to par), so it kinda' happened by default. I was immediately hired to do live sound design for a famous photographer (David la Chapelle), which served as a great way to pack what would've taken several years to learn in 2+ years, as he's EXTREMELY demanding style-wise and you have to be able to shift gears on the fly, often time playing 10 to 14 hour days in every imaginable situation and environment.
What was your most exciting DJ gig to date, and why?
My greatest time DJ’ing—I'd have to say—was my time spent working with David, as I was ALWAYS under the gun and it forced me to become more skilled in every way. I LOVE all types of music and it gave me the platform to experiment and to learn to do a lot of things on the fly. It was extremely intense on a lot of levels. When you're used to playing for 10 hours or more in various styles, a 2 or 4 hour club gig is nothing!!
What projects/albums do you have coming out in the fall?
I've got all of the projects mentioned above dropping this summer/fall and talks in the works about a few more things, you know...gotta keep grindin'. Also, be on the lookout for my new EP, which will be delivered just in time for this year's WMC in Miami…got some live PA's coming up there to promote the record.
It's incredible. The way that it works…man, it suits all my needs, I can use it as a mobile recording interface AND as a live console for "interactive" DJ sets. And, as with ALL Mackie products, it's built like a tank! I've owned several pieces of Mackie gear over the years and to see the growth of the company as it relates to modern technology is awesome, they read my mind with this one!
What is your favorite feature on the d.4 pro mixer?
My favorite feature...here we go: FireWire connectivity, great-feeling crossfader, phantom power, software compatibility, great sounding outputs, and on and on and on....
What separates Mackie products from the rest in the game?
Professional features at a great price point, long lasting components, ease of use and a well-deserved reputation for being indestructible.
Why did you decide to endorse Mackie personally?
After years of using Mackie products, when the opportunity arose to become involved with the company, I JUMPED at the chance. Mackie is a forward-thinking company with a rich history for manufacturing GREAT products, so it's a great marriage for me and what I do musically. My tools have to be transparent and this product is just that.
How much do you use computers for making music (recording or spinning)?
In every way, EVERY day! I'm a computer-based producer for sure, and this platform allows me to make moves that I couldn't otherwise make.
Have you used—or do you plan to use—the FireWire capability of the d.4 pro in your music?
Oh, yes indeed. I plan to use the FireWire connectivity for DJ sets, for my live act (when we have to roll with a compact setup) and for mobile recording when on the road. Believe me, it'll be put to MAJOR use in every capacity. Once I get deep into Abelton, it'll be the main interface for that as well.
It was pretty much a natural progression for me since I was record collector at an early age. I ended up with an incredible collection of the best music on the planet right in time for me to take advantage of an opportunity, by chance, to play a party and things just kind of snowballed from there.
What was your most exciting DJ gig to date?
Performing for the Orange Bowl Half-Time Show. The 1st time I did it was in 2006 and they have asked me back to perform in 2007 and 2008. It's the most incredible feeling to have 77K plus people on their feet and responding to everything you do and play! The most exciting experience by far.
What projects/albums do you have coming out in the fall?
I'm working on my 1st release (BFTC - Built for the Clubs) the 1st DJ album with strictly club anthems!
How do you like the Mackie d.pro Series?
I LOVE my Mackie d.2 pro mixer. It's extremely responsive and the Infinium optical crossfader is absolutely incredible.
What is your favorite feature on the d.2 pro mixer?
The FireWire capability feature! This is the only mixer in the world that’s FireWire capable and the fact that it works with the Traktor Scratch makes it the all-in-one performance solution. Mackie killed it with this mixer!
What separates Mackie products from the rest in the game?
It's obvious that Mackie really does its R&D when it comes to DJ products. Every time Mackie drops a new DJ product it embodies the features that the cutting edge DJ is looking for, so they really listen to the feedback from the DJ's and deliver products that we love to use.
Why did you decide to endorse Mackie personally?
Tradition is a big part of it. I've been using Mackie products for over 10 years now and I can say that I've never been disappointed. I'm a strong believer in tradition and the Mackie brand is one of the strongest throughout the DJ community and a trusted name. I've worked incredibly hard to build my brand and I will only associate with quality.
How much do you use computers for making music (recording or spinning)?
My laptop is now just as important as my turntables or mixer. It's a vital part of my performance now…so to answer the question, I can't do my show without it!
How do you typically use the FireWire capability of the d.2 pro in your music?
Right now I use the FireWire capability to record my live shows into ProTools. I like to release recordings of my live performances so this feature just makes it 100% easier for me to do that on the fly.
I was young, broke, lived in the hood and moms didn't want me hangin' out all night since I am an only child, so I figured I would do the DJ thing because I would be the first to get to the party, the last to leave and have cash to boot.
What was your most exciting DJ gig to date, and why?
I would have to say playing in an underground bunker with no ventilation and a few thousand people in Vienna, Austria. They partied ‘til 6am, and then took me to an after party that went on ‘til 12 noon.
Who do you currently produce?
I produce all my own music, as well as do stuff for Stones Throw Records. It’s the 20th anniversary of Supersonic as well, so I am doing a new version with the OG's, JJ FAD and a new joint. I also ghost write and produce for a lot of peeps, shhhh.
What projects/albums do you have coming out in the fall?
I am currently working on my Greatest Hits on Stones Throw Records, a new Professor X album, (my AKA for Electro Funk) and a new animated music group.
It is a great DJ mixer, sounds great and has a very smooth fader, and because it has FireWire, it fits nicely into my setup for remixing and production.
What is your favorite feature on the d.2 pro mixer?
My favorite feature would have to be the fader, it has a contact-free fader that glides with ease, I also like the fact that I can DJ with it and use my digital production software, like Reason and Live, at the same time.
What separates Mackie products from the rest in the game?
Mackie makes products that last and sound great. I don't have to worry about my gear breaking down on me when I do shows.
Why did you decide to endorse Mackie personally?
I like dealing with companies that listen, especially to us who are out there grinding every day, I see the feedback in the product, as well as the quality and innovation.
How much do you use computers for making music (recording or spinning)?
I do most of my production and DJ sets using computers now because I travel so much, I still love vinyl but it cost so much to carry records on planes now.
Have you used—or do you plan to use—the FireWire capability of the d.2 pro in your music? If so, how?
I use the FireWire with Reason and Live, as well as to catalogue my vinyl to digital. I have also been messing around with video DJ software like PCDJ VJ, which works well with the d.2 pro.
When my radio show “Chocolate City� gained notoriety, people began to call for DJ bookings. I couldn’t say no.
What was your most exciting DJ gig to date, and why?
Detroit Electronic Music Festival, in 2000-something. I was booked to play a one-hour set on a large stage, opening for the Platinum Pied Pipers. Instead, I was left on stage for over three hours with minimal information about last-minute schedule changes. In that time, Amp Fiddler visited and decided to freestyle over some instrumentals. People filled the amphitheater and I worked the crowd into full frenzied participation mode, setting it up real nice for Peanut Butter Wolf, Madlib, and J-Rocc to take over when the sun set.
What projects / albums do you have coming out in 08?
Fader Mag’s Suite 903 #15, Sweeterlife Mix Series with Vikter Duplaix, and some other stuff that’s still cookin’.
It sounds good, is easy to use, and just the right size for a 4-channel mixer.
How much do you use computers for making music (recording or spinning)?
I’m pretty new to the game. I usually mix live and work with an engineer to add peripheral elements like drops and what not. The Mackie d.2 / d.4, along with the FireWire capability, will allow me to finally set up a proper digital studio.
Have you used -- or do you plan to use -- the FireWire capability?
With the Mackie mixer, I’ll be setting up a digital studio where all components work together smoothly. This will allow me to improve the quality of my radio programming, mix CD work, and help me accomplish some of my own personal DJ/production goals, like re-editing songs to create exclusive tracks, etc.
What do you think separates Mackie gear from the rest in the game?
Mackie just seems to have very high standards for sound quality and output. That’s why I’ve long requested Mackie monitors when I DJ events. I only align myself with quality.
That’s simple. Jam Master Jay. I saw him making noise on the turntable and I had to figure out what he was doing. When RUN DMC dropped their first album, it was a wrap. I wanted to DJ and be an MC, but early on I realized that the DJ at the party was the man, so I jumped head first into DJ’in.
What was your most exciting DJ gig to date, and why?
I have three that rank very high. The first is when I flew to Rome to DJ a few clubs… That was amazing, the culture the people, all united by music. They couldn’t speak English, but could sing my boy 2pac's lyrics front and back. The second was DJ’ing in LA at the Shark Club for the first Wu Tang performance on the west coast. I was so hyped I almost passed out from hyperventilating (lol) … it was a crazy night. The third experience was as a DJ for Tone Loc, performing in front of 15,000 people. Not being able to see the end of a crowd is wild, a bash in the grass.
Who do you currently produce?
I’m in the lab now working on tracks for a few different MCs … nothing major, just a side hobby at this point.
What projects / albums do you have coming out in 08?
Nothing new right now, but the latest records I’m on are the Hidden Beach Unwrapped Series Vol. 1 – 4, and Def Jazz on Def Jam records. Also T.H.U.G. JAZZ on Verve records. All of these are hip-hop tracks converted into jazz… real cool for the older hip-hop heads.
How do you like the Mackie d.2pro / d.4pro mixers?
So far so good, it feels great. All my sound guys love it. They can definitely hear the difference from my previous mixer. Plus I have all the outputs I need for sound, a monitor mix for club and stage… It’s everything I need in a battle-style mixer. The cross fader is like cotton candy, sweet and soft. Plus the mixer looks good and matches my gear. It fits in great with my whole setup.
How much do you use computers for making music (recording or spinning)?
One hundred percent. My life revolves around my computers. I do everything on my laptop and desktops.
What is your favorite feature on the d.2 / d.4 pro mixer?
The biggest feature for me is a cross-fader for the headphone cue. I love it. It’s a must-have.
What do you feel separates Mackie products from the rest in the game?
Mackie has a very strong name in the sound game. There’s a very strong foundation and trust among DJs and sound reinforcement guys. I’ve used Makie products for a long time before I had this mixer. Trust that :-)
Why did you decide to endorse Mackie personally?
Any chance to represent something you trust and use to make a living is a great thing. I can be honest about this, because I have first-hand experience with the Mackie name and several products… So I wouldn’t miss the chance to endorse it.
My dad blasted music in our 7th floor apartment in Brooklyn since I was a shorty… that’s how I came to appreciate it. Oh, and it didn’t matter the hour, all I remember was music loudly embedded in my head while I slept. So of course my high-school boyfriend was also a DJ. He DJ'd locally and I helped him carry his records. When we weren't makin’ out, he'd teach me how to DJ (lol).
What was your most exciting DJ gig to date, and why?
It’s hard to say which gig would be most exciting because they're all
mostly fun. Though, most recently, I’d have to say the Flavor Flav Roast
for Comedy Central was by far the most fun.
Who do you currently produce?
An artist by the name of Medina from Jersey is my latest
project. His beats are crazy… [they’re] harmonious and gritty at the same time,
delivering lyrics that are infectious and intelligent. He's
spotlighted on my website, www.thebackspin.com.
What projects / albums do you have coming out in 08?
Thankfully, I’ve got so much goin' on these days. Me and my DJ MoDave have a syndicated radio show called “The Backspin,� which takes a lot of time producing show ideas and artist interviews. We’re currently on in a few major markets, including Boston’s Jammin 94.5 and Portland's Jammin 95. I won’t rest until everybody can hear it. As a matter of fact, you can check it out online right now at www.thebackspin.com
The d.2 pro is craaazy. It’s real smoove, with a lot of DJ-friendly amenities. Mackie has definitely outdone themselves with this one.
What is your favorite feature on the d.2 pro mixer?
Well, my mini production setup is a Mac with Protools, my Mackie d.2 pro and
my 1200's. So the built-in Firewire [computer connection] capability is one of the many advantages of the d.2 pro and brand-new d.4 pro that I appreciate. Honestly, this technology and the sound of these mixers can make the difference between being ‘regular’ and a ‘professional’ DJ / producer. That’s exactly why Mackie's d.pro line is my only choice.
There was this DJ by the name of DJ Reg that DJ'd for all my Dad's parties when he coached at UCLA. When he would be setting up he would let me get on and actually spin, and I remember he gave me a Public Enemy 12-inch and he let me spin it and from that point on I knew I wanted to be a DJ.
What was your most exciting DJ gig to date, and why?
I DJ'd Bennie Medina's Birthday party and P-Diddy was hosting the event. Puffy was basically in the DJ booth with me all night giving me records to play. He would say "play this" so we were both DJ'ng the party, it was crazy. Everybody was there all of his clients he was managing at the time, J LO was there and a bunch of other celebs.
Who do you currently produce?
50Cent, Dr. Dre, Jay Z, Game, Talib Kweli, Bun B, NAS, & Self Scientific to name a few.
What projects/albums do you have coming out in the fall and into 08?
I love it! I actually just started using it, it does a lot. I've never had a mixer that had the filters on it so I just started messing with that feature incorporating that into my set. I haven't gotten into the full effects on the mixer as of yet. I love the action on the faders as well.
How much do you use computers for making music (recording or spinning)?
It's all computers. Everything I do is on computers. I don't even use hardware to make beats, I use software. I have some vintage gear that I use, such as keyboards, but for the most part I do all my programming and all my DJ'ing on computers. I use SERATO when I DJ and Reason when I make beats.
What is your favorite feature on the d.2/d.4 pro mixers?
The filters are my favorite so far the resonance and actually being able to transition from one record to another while using the filter and then actually tweaking the resonance at the same time is dope but I haven't even begun to maximize the full power of the mixer as of yet, but off the bat the filters is what I like most about the d.2/d.4 pro.
What separates Mackie products from the rest in the game?
Mackie stands on their name alone. I've used everything from their mixing boards to their DJ mixers, to their HR824 monitors which I use in my studio. They sound good, you can mix off them but you can still play them loud because they have a lot of bottom and bass. Mackie just stands on its brand and for that reason alone you’re not going to have a complete studio without having a Mackie product in it.
Why did you decide to endorse Mackie personally?
Just for the main fact that I've used their products for so long. To this day I use their monitors and conduct all my mixes and all my work on Mackie monitors. It's a great product, high end quality".
Feel free to make any personal endorsement comment, if possible... =)
Stay tuned for my two groups dropping new music in 2008 and beyond..... The New Royales and Self Scientific (come in peace prepare for war)!!!!!!
See what DJ Khalil is up to my visting his MySpace page.
Hear ye, Hear ye. The reigning King of the d.Pro wishes to address his loyal followers. Seriously though, DJ Rocky Rock has been battling with the d.2 pro for awhile now and has solidified his status as a “World-Class DJ�. Check out this Rocky-mentary and learn what he is all about:
We just want to show a little love to the King of the d.pro. Welcome to the good life, Rocky.
For the fourth year in a row, Mackie mixed it up at the Remix Hotel Miami from March 22-25, showcasing our latest DJ gear and a roster of cutting-edge artists. Mackie’s own d.2 Crew presented daily gear demos, featuring next-generation Mackie DJ Production Consoles, the d.4 pro and d.2 pro, the MCU Pro control surface, as well as Tracktion 3, Mackie’s premier recording and remixing software.
The Mackie booth was especially busy this year, and was graced by visits from DJ royalty, including Biz Markie, DJ Jazzy Jeff, DJ AV, DJ Kid Capri, Grandmaster Dee, Bennie Bennasi, Mad Linx from BET’s Rap City and Lil Jon.
Check out our collection of pix…
Is this a trade show booth or a party? We think this picture says it all.
TT24 Hits The Road: Thomas Dolby, BT and TT24 Consoles
Sonic innovators Thomas Dolby and BT are currently touring the U.S., delivering dynamic live performances in 5.1 surround sound. Facilitating the experience is a specialized sound system, featuring dual Mackie TT24 digital consoles as well as EAW NT Series full-range loudspeakers and subwoofers.
Engineer/Mixer Mark Linett recently added a Mackie Digital X Bus console to his Your Place Or Mine Location Recording Studio in Southern California. The 48-track remote system is geared toward location recording and post-production for live concerts and broadcast projects.
Although most often associated with Brian Wilson, due to his long-term working relationship with the Beach Boys’ founder including the legendary Smile LP (for which he received a Grammy nomination for Best Engineering), Linett’s decades’-long resume covers an eclectic range of music. Collaborations include Randy Newman, Jane’s Addiction, Paul Simon, Santana, Eric Clapton, the Blasters, Love, Dixie Dregs and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
MACKIE HELPS STURGIS THROW A PARTY FOR 650,000 OF ITS CLOSEST FRIENDS
The Dan Lawson Band & Mackie's S400 Series Loudspeakers On Stage at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, SD
"The musicians and the technical crews have all been so happy to find out they’re playing through Mackie gear, and even people in the audience, they see the Mackie banners and so many of them know the name is synonymous with great sound." Kevin Karns, the Buffalo Chip, Sturgis.
Mackie Offers a Preview of their New Flagship DJ Mixer
A peak into Mackie’s product development crystal ball was offered up at the Professional Lighting and Sound Association’s annual tradeshow in London last week.
At first glance the new d.4 is the logical follow up to the highly-successful d.2, which led Mackie’s official entry into the DJ mixer market early last year. But the d.4 is much more than simply a four channel version of it’s immensely popular sibling. In typical Mackie fashion, real-world consideration went into designing something unique here—a true centerpiece for modern electronic music production and live performance.
No Jive! Soulive’s Eric Krasno Gets Busy with Mackie
Eric Krasno is a music addict. Don’t trip on me; that’s what it says in his official bio. He makes music everyday—it doesn’t matter if he’s at home in New York City, or out on tour with his band Soulive. Between Soulive and his production crew, The Fyre Dept., Eric has worked with mega-stars like Stevie Wonder, Chaka Khan, The Fugees, Dave Mathews, The Rolling Stones, Talib Kweli, Wu-Tang Clan, The Beatnuts, The Roots, John Scofield, Joshua Redman, Derek Trucks, Robert Randolph and many others.
“I'm lucky that I can do what I love as my job, and I plan to do it for the rest of my life if possible,� Krasno confirms. And of course, another key element in his plan is Mackie gear. As a long time fan of Mackie mixers and recording equipment, Eric and Soulive have most recently been recording up a storm with an Onyx 1640 small-format mixer, an Onyx 800R mic preamp, and the legendary HR 626 studio monitors.
Mackie’s humble interviewer had, shall we say, “a headache� on the day of the interview, and was in no mood to beat around the bush with this interview. First angry question:
Carbon Leaf: Success Through Hard Work and Taking Mackie On The Road
Virginia-based Carbon Leaf is a five-man band defying the odds of music business success by creating and playing their music their way. Not content to sit slack-jawed on a couch, wondering “wouldn’t it be cool if,� this courageous band—comprised of Barry Privett: words and vocals, Carter Gravatt: acoustic and electric mandolins, acoustic and electric guitars, lap steel, bouzouki, loops and effects, vocals, Jordan Medas: electric bass, bowed and double bass, vocals, Scott Milstead: drums and percussion, vocals, and Terry Clark: electric and acoustic guitars, vocals—got up off their butts and worked!
To date, Carbon Leaf has played more shows and put out more albums than 99.9% of the patchoulied-up, dreadlocked masses could shake a hacky-sac at. And don’t get bent just because they signed to a major label. That’s the way it’s supposed to happen. First you work hard, and then you move up in the world. None of this “the-world-owes-me-a-buzz� attitude. Anyway, they don’t need my hype; they’ve been on The Dr. Phil Show.
Through editorial bob-and-weave, your humble Fresh Fish writer has managed to combine Terry, Jordan, and soundman Chris’s voices into a single literary virtual Voltron—with the sum more powerful than the parts. Read on.
DJ Muggs, founder of legendary Hip-Hop group Cypress Hill, world famous producer, CEO of Angeles Records and President of Soul Assassins, is a die-hard Mackie fan who relies heavily on Mackie Active loudspeakers as an essential part of his gear arsenal. “Over the past 12 years I've been using MACKIE products and they have been one of the most durable and reliable pieces of equipment I've ever used, not to mention they continue to push the envelope when it comes to being on the cutting edge of technology."
So what’s the latest offering to find its way onto Muggs’ list of Mackie “must haves�? The d.2 DJ Mixer, of course. In fact, he likes the d.2 so much that he agreed to sign on as an official Mackie endorsee to help spread the word.
For fans of acoustic soul goddess and Mackie HR824 user India Arie, these days are good ones. A new album, Testimony: Vol. 1, is out and it's number one with a taste bullet. The album is brimming with great tunes including her hit “I Am Not My Hair.�
Check out India's MySpace site for her upcoming tour schedule as well as a tasty rendition of Don Henley's "Forgiveness." Oh, and please read on to learn a little about Inda's early days in the music biz, and how she finds musical inspiration in her Mackie-equipped, Atlanta-based studio.
Songwriter-Producer Ben Margulies was a major part of breaking Mariah Carey with his Grammy-winning song "Vision of Love" and others. Margulies' newest collaboration is Lisa Lavie. Check out the HR824 mixed tunes HERE and let us know what you think!
When you spread the gear gospel for a living one of the few bragging rights is “we knew him/her when.� Attending the first Latin Grammy’s, one left with the impression that if there were any justice in the music biz, the very hot—musically and otherwise—singer from Columbia with an Arabic name would cross over. “Es la verdad� as they say, “it’s the truth� now in 2006. Sex symbol stuff aside, Shakira puts on a smoking hot show with a level of musicianship one doesn’t hear offten.
Go see Shakira but don’t bother with the pocket Spanish-English dictionary if you no habla Español. If they let you bring binoculars, you’ll probably be able spot the tour’s trusty 1604 VLZ Pro mixing it up onstage.
Love or hate his politics you gotta admire Neil Young's penchant for telling it like he sees it and taking risks. Remember his solo tour of a decade ago that gave electronica an aritstic appeal outside the dance club? That was crazy-brave-cool. Young is out with veteran supergroup mates Crosby, Stills, and Nash and reprising what they did almost four decades ago: protesting the political state of affairs in America.
The Deke has a plaque commemorating Mackie's support of the CSN album that lured Young back into the fold when Neil learned they were making it sans the blessing of a big record company. Neil's like that. So is Mackie!
The Deke loves it when musicians stick their necks out. Whether its Toby Keith or The Dixie Chicks , having the cajones to state your opinion is what freedom is all about.
After doing that and listening to the press say for a year their careers were over as a result, the Chicks released a no apoloigies kind of album and even dared to publicly diss Country radio for having become "too redneck." How “over� did their career prove to be? Enough to make anyone who predicted that look like a total idiot. Seems like #1 on the Billboard album sales chart will do that.
But the thing the Deke loves best about the Chicks is they helped a FANTASTIC music in the schools program Mackie co-sponsored called Kids On Stage back when the act was just breaking. The Chicks showed up and sang and answered questions for about 100 middle schoolers in Leipers Fork, Tennessee. They performed through the very first sound reinforcement board Mackie ever manufacured, serial number 000001, if memory serves. Here’s the new and improved versions: Onyx 80 Series
Walking through the Atlanta office/studios of Big Boi’s Purple Ribbon Productions it was no surprise to see the case full of Grammy, BET, and seemingly every other music biz award an outstanding artist can win. Especially since Outkast’s seminal Speakerbox hit the airwaves, Andre 3000 and Big Boi seem to be charting a similar path to the Beatles.
What did suprise us was an old photo of the pair working on an Analog 24•8Bus and a MPC60 drum machine. These were the basic tools the wildly talented pair made magic with which made them rich and famous and caused VIBE magazine to opine in their July issue Outkast is the most important act in HipHop history. The Deke concurs and from a gear perspective it feels great to have been even a microscopic part of that.
The Deke is sad though. Fans ended up caring a lot more about the durability of the Beatles than John, Paul, George and Ringo did. If the level of brilliant original music collabaration and act longevity the Fab 4 established is any guide, Outkast could be a too short lovely memory. Hope not.
So this good friend calls the Deke and asks if he'd mind drving Larry Carlton and Robben Ford from their hotel to Saratoga's beautiful outside stage at the Montalvo Center. This leads to listening to both guitar deities do a rousing sound check for the benefit of the soundman and one guy in the audience . . . me. Talk about spoiled. I took a shot of the band's 1604 VLZ Pro, forgot to shoot the SRM450's being used as monitors, and well, had a fantastic time listening to two of the best pickers in the whole wide world play the most amazing stuff.
The best news? A live album will be released after this tour. Can't wait!
Spinderella is without question one of the true pioneers of hip-hop music. Best known as the DJ for Salt ‘N’ Pepa—whose hits like “Push It,� “What A Man,� and “Shoop� showed the world what three women with a beat and a plan could accomplish—Spin has been there, done that, and is still running the show.
After co-writing the hit single “None Of Your Business,� Spin gained inspiration to pursue her writing and production talents. Now she and co-host DJ Mo’Dav can be heard via the syndicated Superadio show The Back Spin, which airs in six markets across the country. Armed with her new Mackie d.2 mixer, Spin is poised to take her game to the next level. Here’s what she had to say.
One of our favorite customers, singer Songwriter Kevin Fisher , reports a buddy who runs studios in Nashville and New York uses two Big Knobs to send real time signals between the two studios via phone lines and Nicecast, which streams audio. Says FIsher: “It's pretty damn cool and I thought you'd want to know.�
Check out Kevin's site for a funny take on working your butt off to succeed in the music biz. You'll see why the talented songwriter deserves every bit of success he enjoys.
This site is for nominally people excited about making or recording music. We shouldn't say discouraging things. So when the Deke says anyone needing that last little bit of encouragement to never pick up the guitar again is encouraged to attend a particular concert, rest assured it's a compliment. That's how 1604 VLZ Pro user Larry Carlton's virtuosity affects the Deke. He plays at a level so far beyond most players it's sort of astonishing. To make matters worse, Larry will be sharing the stage with another player blessed with "howz he do that?" kind of virtuosity, Robben Ford . The Deke predicts seeing these two perform together will be much like DaVinci and Picasso both answering a Craig's List ad to paint your house. It doesn't seem possible but whatever the price, we're paying.
In addition to his world-class DJ, mic handling, and production skillz, MYG (pronounced My-G) is the founder and CEO of his own label and studio named Indamix, where he oversees all engineering, licensing and business operations. MYG took time away from his busy touring and production schedule to talk with Mackie about his experience with the new d.2 DJ mixer. Check out the Indamix website at Indamix Records to keep up with his latest drops.
It’s great to see an old friend do so well. As a 20 year old college student making tracks on the “classic� version of a 1604 VLZ Pro, contemporary R&B instrumentalist Brian Culbertson found incredible success: he stormed the Adult Contemporary charts with his entirely self-made Long Night Out . 13 years later Brian's popularity merits getting the cover of Music Connection magazine. If you’re looking for career pointers, the cover story “How He Became The Hottest Ticket in Jazz� is loaded with practical tips for making it and staying on top in this hard, hard biz.
According to Keyboard magazine, Brian and his bandmate father are still using Mackie mixers.
Who is Greg Mackie’s favorite band? Hint: They’re from Oakland, California. 2nd hint: squeaky tight funk that’s impossible not to make you want to get your groove thang on. Lotsa Mackie mixers among the personal studios, sure, but what we most love about the band is, well, the level of musicianship. Hearing Rocco Prestia and David Garibaldi on bass and drums is like witnissing DaVinci paint the Sistine Chapel. You wonder if there’s a Supreme Being guiding the whole thing because its just a little too good to be made by mere humans.
Check them out live in concert and become an honorary citizen of Bump City.
Deke swears he always wears this hat while listening to "Rush" (iTunes free excerpt) —one of our favorite recorded Steve Vai performances. If you add it to your iPod playlist we suggest you park the car before playing it. Why? Makes you wanna wear a black knit cap just above your eyes, put pedal to the metal on a really loud '67 Mustang and drive it irresponsibly.
Steve rehearses his band with SRM350’s and an SWA1501 subwoofer, cranked. Now THAT’s pedal to the metal rehearsing.
If you think too much popular music sounds like it's being produced by people who sprinkle cocaine on their cornflakes, have a listen to Mackie users Damon & Naomi . These musicians are clearly not in a hurry. Like some of the best Pink Floyd, it’s thoughtful music for contemplating and—perish the thought in these overly busy times—relaxing. Check out some cuts from their 24•8 Bus-recorded and mixed "The Earth Is Blue" on iTunes. Here's an excerpt of one of our favorites, "Beautiful Close Double" from the same album.
Digital X Bus owner Usher Raymond impresses us like few in the biz. Why? How he’s planning to spend this weekend is one of many, many examples. The socially conscious artist will help teach teenagers leadership skills at a seminar March 17-19 in Cleveland, Ohio. Where? At the three-day Midwest Black/Hispanic Achievers Teen Leadership Summit sponsored by the Cleveland YMCA.
When musicians turn actor the results can be wincingly bad. Not so for Antwon “Big Boi� Patton’s substantial role in “ATL.� Blackfilm.com’s review indicates Big’s talent now credibly encompasses both the recording and the movie studio. Deke is not surprised. After all, this is the super-creative artist who made pop radio listenable with his insanely great "I Love The Way You Move" (iTunes) and so many other dare-ya-not-ta-dance grooves.
What's that cool looking console in the "Big" background?
Johan Mannerheim is living the dream: he always wanted to compose music for video games . . . for which he has a passion. After a successfull stint producing pop dance tracks in his native Scandanavia, Johan moved to Canada and got attention from the game industry. It’s no wonder why. This composer can positively drench you in a mood whether he’s using a big orchestra or the virtual rack of doom . . . both of which he monitors through a trusty set of HR824’s For some luscious examples check out his music page.
DJ Rocky Rock Wins Winter Music Conference's Coveted WMC/DMC DJ Spinoff Using a Mackie D.2
The Winter Music Conference in Miami, celebrating it's 21st year this year, is regarded as the singular networking event in the dance music industry attracting international DJs and industry professionals from over 60 different countries and spotlighting the best DJ talent for the year.
DJ Rocky Rock Wins Winter Music Conference's Coveted WMC/DMC DJ Spinoff Using a Mackie D.2
The Winter Music Conference in Miami, celebrating it's 21st year this year, is regarded as the singular networking event in the dance music industry attracting international DJs and industry professionals from over 60 different countries and spotlighting the best DJ talent for the year.
Selfishly speaking, we gotta love Connecticut’s Tonesoup Studios and their equipment list. “ToneSoup is proud to use some of the best equipment in the world, including: Mackie d8b digital console, Mackie HR824 near field studio monitors, Neumann microphones . . .� Here’s their complete gear list.
But our favorite destination on this site is the DOWNLOAD PAGE where you can hear MP3’s of some of the artists owner Dave Henderson has recorded over the years. Check out some tasty music beginning with the exceptional voice of John Bergeron.
Few people can claim to have been at the pinnacle of their profession for a sustained period of time, having enjoyed so much success and still be leading the way forward. John 00 Fleming, one of the dance music industries most revered personalities, is amongst a small band of people who can say they were responsible for igniting the spark of the scene we all know and love today.
Mackie Onyx 1640 and 1202 VLZ find a home on the Late Show with David Letterman. Paul Shaffer's keyboard rig depends on the Mackie standards for every show.
Engineer-Producer Travis Wyrick got the call to record P.O.D. tracking for their most recent album Testify. You can read about it in Mix magazine but here’s the short version: this album rocks like few others. Sizzling drum tracks courtesy of Wyrick's use of Onyx 800R and a whole bunch of other goodies.
Deke doesn’t care what all those fake B3 sample playin’ mfos sez; ain’t nothin like the real thang bay-bay. Gotta be a Hammond and weigh too much for one person to move to move the Deke. Here’s three B3 players we like a lot; two of which are INTIMATELY familiar with the Mackie gear (SRM450’s and recording consoles) they’ve used over the years plus one great jazz organist who has, sadly, passed on.
For a deep dive into some smokin’ B3 playing, check this NPR link out.
The Deke asked Conan O'Brien keyboardist and Onyx 1640 user Scott Healey to describe his worst gig and got back this little gem. If you think your worst performance story can beat this, email DKSweet@sbcglobal.net and we'll post the best, er worst. Go Scott . . .
Worst gig, that's easy.
I was covering on synth all the orchestra keyboard parts (celeste, piano) plus doing the harp parts in a local NYC area pops orchestra. We mainly did outdoor summer park concerts, quality control was very low but it was challenging and great reading practice.
How many people do you know that have sold over 100 million records and own a Mackie D8B and a Mackie Control? Okay, now how many of those have a hit Broadway show going right now about their career in this insane business of music?
Will Bunny Brunel give up the D8B on which he's mixed several successful solo albums and trade up to a DXB? Rumor has it that even though one of those was Grammy-nominated, the French bassist now living in LA feels he can risk forsaking his "luckeeee DeeAteBeeeee" to indulge in Mackie gear lust once again.
Can you name the Brunel-produced album for which he received a Grammy nomination? First one to email the correct answer to dksweet@sbcglobal.net wins a Mackie T-shirt the copywriter claims “looks best on someone with cleavage.� If that's not you, gift it to someone who looks good in high heels at least.
DJ Exacta from Compulsive Music at the Mackie Booth during Winter Music Conference. Pictured form left to right, DJ Tamara Sky, Jeff Fisher Mackie AR, DJ Exacta, Colleen Shannon. DJ Exacta is currently a resident DJ at several clubs in New York including Crobar NY. See his artist site for club details.
Colleen Shannon and DJ Tamara Sky attend an impromptu signing poolside at the Wyndham Hotel during Winter Music Conference. Colleen was at the conference endorsing the Mackie d.2 DJ mixer.
Colleen Shannon backstage at the International Dance Music Awards. Pictured from left to right, DJ Tamara Sky, Pierre from C2C, Colleen Shannon, Blythe Proffit resident house DJ from New York.
DJ Rocky Rock of the Black Eyed Peas and Colleen Shannon, Mackie d.2 endorsers, present at the International Dance Music Awards. The IDMAs took place in the closing nights of The Winter Music Conference in Miami Florida.
Donald Glaude and DJ Dan find Mackie at Remix in Miami. Pictured left to right, Pro Sound Stage and Lighting Rep Branden Hamer, Ronnal Ives, DJ Tone, Donald Glaude, DJ Dan. Seattle natives Glaude and Dan are keeping themselves busy all over the country. Check out their dates below.
AC/DC About To Rock With Two Mackie Digital X Bus Digital Recording Consoles
The Young brothers of AC/DC, Angus and Malcolm, now each have one of Mackie's revolutionary new Digital X Bus X.200 recording consoles in their personal studios–located in the Netherlands and London respectively. In addition, they have both specified Mackie HDR24/96 hard disk recorders and completed their updates with a pair of Mackie HR824 Active Studio Monitors in each studio.
Acting on a strong recommendation from Paul "Pab" Boothroyd, who is AC/DC's FOH engineer and audio consultant for their recording studios, Angus also read every review and piece of information he could gather on the Digital X Bus. This was followed by a call to Mackie and an on–site demo that showed him just how easy it was to get the most out of the new console.
So the Deke gets invited to superagent Bob Rice’s dinner at PF Chang’s (awesome Chinese) after GDC (Game Developers Conference) and who does he run into but lonnnnnngtime Mackie user, composer David Arkenstone . David admits he can’t remember not owning a Mackie mixer and still has a “classic� 1604 plus a newer 1202 for gigs.
Yo game developers: check out David's newest album Atlantis for some highly “visual� music.
In Los Mocossos' musical world, rock, Latin, funk and Jamaican ska blend together in a melting pot of sweaty horns, stinging guitars and rock solid funky rhythms. So far, it's a sound too diverse, too tasty for mainstream radio and that's a shame. Check out their newest album American Us for some serious Bay Area flava sung both in English and Spanish.
Rehearsing with a Mackie PPM 808S, Los Mocosos (Spanish for rugrats) achieves a tightness that seems equally tight and dirty funky. El Dulce dije "mooooooooey bwaaano!"
What can the biggest "Rock En Espanol" band on the planet and Mackie Designs do to put more music in the schools? How about installing a Mackie 32x8 recording console in the Guadalajara, Mexico high school one of Manå graduated from.
If there were an ice cream store serving up the flavors of music coming from the Silicon Valley the menu would have too many listings to fit—even using tiny type. Firme, one of the area's better known bands (along with Smashmouth and the Doobie Brothers) is a good example: Sorta punk, sorta ska, but songs so listenable even radio dares to play them.
Okay, so Deke loves the name of the act "Yaga y Mackie" (Spanish for uh . . . Yaga and Mackie). But he loves the music even more. If you haven't heard a style of music called reggaeton Deke will not spoil the surprise. Check out one of the better proponents . . .
Los Lobos Sax and keyboardsman Steve Berlin called yesterday to inform the band was performing later near The Deke at the Montalvo Center for the Perfomring Arts. Gracias Esteben! It gives one hope in the music business that a band this good can have a career this long. Has it really been over thirty years since "Just another band from East LA" came out?
Steve was one of the first to use an Onyx mixer onstage. He still does, mixing keyboards and saxes without having to give the soundman winks and nods.
We are confused. Does this mean Greg Mackie is replacing Joe Perry? Greg is known to play a beautiful Breedlove acoustic 6 string, but how will that sound on "Walk This Way?" Could this be an example of this legendery band's secret to staying fresh: constant reinvention?
What better way to reinvent yourself than to hire . . . an inventor.
Seems Maxim from the prodigy is writing again. After speaking with him and visiting his cool Fur lined studio the man himself was blown away with the sound quality of our new Onyx 400f audio interface. So much so he has bought one alongside a Mackie control and a big knob for his new studio projects. After a few hours of playing beats and messing with sounds he wanted one there and then to start writing with.
A little faith can go a long way. Prodigy is now one of the world’s biggest acts, and main man Liam Howlett’s faith in a few key things is one of the magic ingredients that got them there.
There’s his faith in his music—music that consistently stays two steps ahead of categorization. In the span of three classic albums and a brace of smash hit singles over five years, Prodigy provides the soundtrack for a generation that launched itself with an illegal party—taking that raving sound to the rest of the world.
There’s his faith in the team around him—dancers, MCs, vocalists, friends—that gives his music the visual dimension to carry it to a global audience. Liam is striking enough at the helm of his on-stage audio workstation, but with the stage electrified even further by the presence of Prodigy performers like Keith Flint, audiences are universally ignited.
What made you become a DJ? 
SPINDERELLA
Hear ye, Hear ye. The reigning King of the d.Pro wishes to address his loyal followers. Seriously though, DJ Rocky Rock has been battling with the d.2 pro for awhile now and has solidified his status as a “World-Class DJ�. Check out this Rocky-mentary and learn what he is all about:
Engineer/Mixer Mark Linett recently added a Mackie 
A peak into Mackie’s product development crystal ball was offered up at the Professional Lighting and Sound Association’s annual tradeshow in London last week. 
Eric Krasno is a music addict. Don’t trip on me; that’s what it says in his official bio. He makes music everyday—it doesn’t matter if he’s at home in New York City, or out on tour with his band 
Virginia-based ![DJMuggs_mainpic_ML[2].jpg](http://www.mackie.com/freshfish/DJMuggs_mainpic_ML%5B2%5D.jpg)
For fans of acoustic soul goddess and Mackie 
When you spread the gear gospel for a living one of the few bragging rights is “we knew him/her when.� Attending the first Latin Grammy’s, one left with the impression that if there were any justice in the music biz, the very hot—musically and otherwise—singer from Columbia with an Arabic name would cross over. “Es la verdad� as they say, “it’s the truth� now in 2006. Sex symbol stuff aside, Shakira puts on a smoking hot show with a level of musicianship one doesn’t hear offten.
Love or hate his politics you gotta admire 
Deke swears he always wears 
If you think too much popular music sounds like it's being produced by people who sprinkle cocaine on their cornflakes, have a listen to Mackie users 
