One day before the official announcement we have an exclusive look at the brand new VCI-100 MKII controller from Vestax. The new MK2 version is equipped with a number of improvements and updates including tension adjustable jog wheels, a built in sound card, and a 4 deck layout. Will the updated version be the final nail in the coffin of the original VCI-100 after a solid three year run? The jury is still out..
Controller: Vestax VCI-100 MK2
Price: $699 US, 499 Euros, 369 GBP UK
Communication: MIDI over USB (USB powered) / (Mac and Windows)
Available: Some time in November
Ships with: Traktor LE – Upgradable to Pro for $119
Weight: 4.5 Pounds
Key Feature: Built-in sound card and tension adjustable jog wheels
THE GOOD
Vestax adapted the new version for Traktor Pro so its set up to control 4 FX slots and all 4 decks. They have also added effects routing, filter knobs and dedicated shift knobs, all features that we worked in our VCI-100SE version out of necessity for Traktor Pro. There is now a built in sound card, although its quality is still unknown, so you dont have to purchase any separate gear. The tension adjusting jog wheels look stylish and eliminate the problem of inconsistent spins. You will enjoy larger transport buttons at the bottom, which are the same size as the VCI-300.
THE BAD
One of the appeals of the original VCI-100 was its basic metal construction which came from the experience Vestax had in building solid mixers. This was the first controller that looked like a serious piece of dj gear in a sea of Chinese plastic. The Mk2 version, with its stylish curves, plastic chassis and ground lighting effects certainly has more design appeal but might have reduced its utilitarian attraction. The buttons and faders on our prototype feel really terrible – and not playable at all. It’s not clear if they will be the same on the final production version but everyone that has tried the new controller universally prefers the old style buttons. One tester pretty much summed it up “Why didn’t they just build on the last one? Why didn’t they talk to you about the design?” To be honest, we are not entirely sure. The Mk2 is certainly an improvement in some areas but right now it looks like it’s not in others. In person testing at BPM will confirm if the final production versions have ironed out the early prototype flaws.
THE BOTTOM LINE
If Vestax comes back with improved components and Dj TechTools produces a special edition with all of our features from the VCI-100SE then this might just become a legitimate replacement to our storied flagship controller. The sound card needs some serious testing and the price is looking slightly too high but ultimately it’s up to our readers- would you buy this new controller or stick with the old one? Please let your voice be heard so we can make the right decisions by adding your name to the list at the bottom.
F.A.Q.
Will you make a Arcade Version?
No – there is not enough room to put arcade buttons in. We will still produce custom arcade controllers using the old VCi-100 chassis if there is demand. Please let us know if you want one at the bottom of this page.
Will you make a Special Edition?
Most likely – yes, we will produce a SE version of this controller that will be available some time in early December if there is enough demand. Add your name to the list bellow if you want to get updates and first dibs.
I just purchased an SE, is that now obsolete?
Not at all, the metal VCI-100SE is a great controller and will last a long time. At $649 with an audio 2 sound card, it’s also less money than the new version..
Will Vestax discontinue the VCI-100?
It looks like the answer is yes but Dj TechTools will continue to sell VCI-100SE controllers through the end of the year. If people want them after that then we will produce more and they will become exclusive to TechTools. Please add your name to the list above so we can gauge the level of interest.
Is the Chassis all plastic?
No- The Body is plastic but the top sheet is alumite (the same aluminum type material used on macbooks)
How do the jog wheels feel?
Our prototype is not working so well so its hard to tell but the design is totally different from the VCI-100 and VCI-300 models
Is everything high resolution?
Yes- there are hi-res jogs and faders similar to our new VCI-100HD firmware.
Hi everybody,
I have a problem with my new Vestax VCI 100 MKII, the jogwheels are working but their resistance is very hard. I used the control in the middle to make it working more easy but that doesn’t function. Do you gyus have an idea or do you already know what the problem is/can be and do you have a fix up like for the VCI 100???
Thank you very much.
Regards
Hi everybody,
I have a problem with my new Vestax VCI 100 MKII, the jogwheels are working but their resistance is very hard. I used the control in the middle to make it working more easy but that doesn’t function. Do you gyus have an idea or do you already know what the problem is/can be and do you have a fix up like for the VCI 100???
Thank you very much.
Regards
Hi everybody,
I have a problem with my new Vestax VCI 100 MKII, the jogwheels are working but their resistance is very hard. I used the control in the middle to make it working more easy but that doesn’t function. Do you gyus have an idea or do you already know what the problem is/can be and do you have a fix up like for the VCI 100???
Thank you very much.
Regards
Hi everybody,
I have a problem with my new Vestax VCI 100 MKII, the jogwheels are working but their resistance is very hard. I used the control in the middle to make it working more easy but that doesn’t function. Do you gyus have an idea or do you already know what the problem is/can be and do you have a fix up like for the VCI 100???
Thank you very much.
Regards
I own the mkII as well, and if you have already changed the wheel sensitivity using the resistance changer in the middle of the wheel, you might just want to take it to a vestax shop near you or try seeing if it breaks in after a few days
can you run dvs thru this like the s4??
can you run dvs thru this like the s4??
can you run dvs thru this like the s4??
can you run dvs thru this like the s4??
no. there is only one pair of inputs!
who much ??
i prefer old vinyls :p
I would like to ask, VCI 100 MK II are available in JAKARTA, Indonesia? I really want to buy this stuff a lot!
I would like to ask, VCI 100 MK II are available in JAKARTA, Indonesia? I really want to buy this stuff a lot!
definitely continue to support the original vci-100. it is such a solid controller compared to the mk2.
Hey I actually own the VCI-100 and im interested in this new model.
Only thing is that I cant find any decent reviews made over the last month where its been playtested to the max.
Who has it? where are you guys?
Im selling the old one for the new one.. why you may ask?
Soundcard.. im yet to find a decent sound card that fits with my set up and actually works well so to have it intergrated is perfect for me and my set up.
I wont be playing in clubs as much and will be doing alot projects from home so if the reviews are good then I may just get it.
Now to find the best price in the UK.
Are you going to modify the VCI-100MKII like you have the original VCI-100. Reason being I like the idea of the integrated sound card. I love my S4 but this is so much more portable and when I do some spots the booth barely fits me. Lol…
I believer they stated the chasis doesn’t really allow for it…
http://promodj.ru/forum/sell_buy/476633.html
overlays for vci-100
icq 449547047
skype pink_buffalo
Crank the sound up and watch this demo video,hear the sounds its making while just being picked up? With its “Fast and Furious” strip lights and plastic finish it doesn’t cry out quality!
Make it black,metal and loose the lights,it could be the ultimate.Many people comparing this to an S4,the size of the MK2 is still great for the features you get,the S4 aint small? Most gigs ive played im been happy if i can rest my laptop on something
let alone set up my own work station battlestar gallactica
If the 300 is going to be Vestax’s only metal bodied VCI, there should be a 300 Arcade edition. Itch uses 5 cue points, and the 300 is 50 mm wider than the 100 so it can easily accomodate a 24 mm sanwa button. The cue point buttons at the top would need to be switched to
As a longtime 300 user, I’m really jealous of the arcade 100 and the Dicer for scratch live for cue point juggling. It would be great for something to come out to allow good itch cue point juggling
I noticed that a mic input was not mentioned. Is there going to be one on the production model?
Tested this at BPM with Traktor and was disappointed. Bad scratch feel and sound, lots of drift. Not psyched about the palstic either. Not a controller i would recommend for a professional DJ. But probably cool for someone who just wants to have a good time spining his mp3s…
Changed my mind about plastic: Just bought the Traktor Kontrol X1, which although it’s made of plastic, feels real solid. I was also confident enough with it’s intuitive layout to gig with it after only an evening’s jamming at home. Still HATE the styling on this Vestax toy though.
@Punky: Think the Trigger Finger is discontinued. I loved mine to death until it finally bought the farm after 5 years solid use 🙁
Looks really great this new console – I hope I can try it anywhere. 🙂
Looks gash
why dosen’t DJTT sell the arcade mod anymore?
I have to say I’m disappointed. The VCI-100 feels like a professional piece of kit, and it is *almost* perfect – however the mk II looks like it’s built on the Typhoon instead of the actual strengths of the VCI-100.
What I would have wanted was a VCI-100 with more controls and high-resolution faders and jogs out of the factory. Vestax audio interfaces are crappy, I would use my Focusrite in any case.
It does look like Vestax are stepping down their ambitions with the impending release of the S4.. This is more suited to downmarket applications, while the S4 and VCI-300 are the “high-end” choices – and yes the price is way too close to these two. Really too bad, since 1. I want a MIDI controller, not a soundcard/mixer, and 2. I don’t want to go Itch.
I think the trend will be that all things are made of plastic. Its like asking cars to be made of the same material that is used to be made of back in the 70’s. Its not going to go back in this economy. Doesn’t mean that it will not be professional or contructed well, but its a new dawn of DJ’ing.
In one way… I want to be happy because this new product is coming out. On the other, I am very sad because I feel that I wasted my money on a product that is going to be discontinue pretty soon. I love my VCI 100… and at the end, I just don’t want to let it go that easy. Not happy!
I love the dual effects sections, and the buttons make a LOT more sense for Traktor Pro. That being said, having the jog wheel tension adjust on the face of the wheel seems like a stupid move to me. I can imagine that getting hit a LOT by accident.
However, I like the four EQ knobs (who the heck uses PAN anyway?) so you can use Traktor’s Xone:92 EQ emulation. That’s a nice feature, especially with the filter as a separate knob.
The internal sound interface is a good move, but I haven’t heard any reviews one way or another about Vestax’s sound interfaces, so the jury’s still out on that.
Integrated shift buttons is a great idea.
However, this unit is already outdated. When Traktor Pro gets S4 sampler functionality, VCI-100 Mk2 users will need a Trigger Finger or MPD24/32 to fire off the samples and control the sample filter. Bad timing, Vestax.
Id never upgrade my all metal VCI-100 for this thing, Vestax have made a serious flop here going plastic and i am sure they will pay dearly for it. One of the huge selling points with the original was the fact that it was constructed really really well, now its put itself in with the sea of other controllers rather than sticking out in any way shape or form.
Anything thinking to buy a Mk2 should think again…
I Like the fact they the Play & CUE Button are bigger.. But they also have to feel great at touch.
The Jog looks amazing.. just curius about how it feels..
It could be good having the sound card, but it must be a good one.. at least 96kHz / Balanced OUT and DCA dynamic range should be 110 dB or more..
I hope that DJ TechTools can fix some and make this a better product for realy Pro DJ as they did in past!
Only then I would certainly buy one!
the mk2 is definately not for me. being a content mk1 se user, i would have liked to see a vestax controller with dedicated controls for four decks (faders/eqs) as an alternative to the ni s4.
IMPORTANT!
Ean: Can you please use buttons instead of the joystick for browsing and loading features on the special edition?? 🙂
I think I see what is happening here, perhaps.
Vestax product lineup change,
Spin
VCI-100 mk2
**VCI-200 or something** <— this will be the awesome one.
VCI-300
Maybe even 100mk2, 300 and then a new 500?
Original VCI still rocks. It feels like a true controller. i have seen plastic controllers from, M-audio, numark and now Vestax? its like someone having plastic screwdriver in their tool box at work.
WHAT THE F***!
With fw v1.4 the VCI-100SE just became as good as perfect.
I don’t trust on board sound in general. I use one the best sound cards on the market, and I bet the Vestax can’t beat that. But If they do, well… that’s interesting.
Lighter, taller, different wheels, need more insides, and let’s see what the final has to offer. So far I’m not to impressed.
Mac support? I guess Yes.
I need more input on the device to judge. I stuck with the original for now.
Keep posting guys.
the wheels look kinda cheesy. the grey plastic frame isnt attractive either. black metal frame and I’m a definite buyer.
I hope they keep the Mk 1 available for a little while. I was REALLY hoping for an arcade model in the future… I’m not a big fan of the new look, and I preferred the asymmetrical knob layout. Please, DJTT, keep the old ones in stock.
ONLY good thing about this imo is the smmetrical button setup on the top part, which was ridiculously stupid on the old one.
other than that – wutliss. and ugly as hell.
Any chance the guys from TechTools know when they will be releasing their own version of the MKII. Have you guys started working on one yet? Around November perhaps?
[quote comment=”38000″]
The S4 is up for pre-order for $899. The VCI-100 MKII is listed right now at $699, that’s a $200 difference. I would be in the end though it’ll be closer to a $300 difference with the street price of the MKII probably settling around $599.[/quote]
The S4 lists for $999 in the NI webshop. Interesting that the pre-order price at DJTT is still $899. Guess people should pre-order from here fast. Cannot imagine DJTT will undercut NI for long…
So, with all those people wanting just an improved Mk.1, it’d be hardly surprising if Vestax wouldn’t announce the all new VCI-200 in two months…metalframe, no soundcard, quality buttons and faders…
Looks really cool…but is it work the $700 price tag?…I am not sure if that ends justify the means…
The guys hating on this thing are nuts. Yeah, the plastic sucks but whatever. I have a weight bench in the garage. I must have this beast.
There is no way I would ever consider trading my vci 100 arcade mod for this new one. Since it cant be modified I would lose some of the rapid fire which I love to use. I got four deck control with what I got now and can do whatever this new unit can. And some things it can’t do. Ean is the man, where was his input? Like the other post said, I would rather spend the extra for the S4!!
I saw this at BPM and it looks fine to me. The jogs are great, it’s really sturdy (plastic or no plastic), it’s got 4-deck control, a sound interface built in (which I’m sure will sound OK), and the control layout makes sense. All knobs and faders are high quality…. I think once the street price brings it down from the RRP this will be a good value little controller.
Hopefully Vestax people come to their senses and gets Techtools more involved. Vestax has what any manufacturer concerned with consumer driven innovation dreams, a direct pool of consumers ready to give them all the details they need, because they love the initial product. I am a VCI-100 user, and would switch to an improved version.
Hey Too SHort,
Just because it makes dollars, don’t mean it makes sense.
Why ruin a good thing?
So let’s see…
1- Metal frame
2- On/Off switch for the disco lights
3- No sound card
4- 4 dedicated channels
5- Knob selector
6- +/- 500$ price range
7- Nice carrying bag
8= Maybe…
If not, I’ll wait for the Traktor S4 software update and stick to my properly mapped OmniControl & LPD8… Just saying…
[quote comment=”37998″]in difference to what posters above wrote, the price difference between the MKII and the S4 is 300 bucks. not feeling the MKII, either, but let’s stick to the facts nevertheless[/quote]
The S4 is up for pre-order for $899. The VCI-100 MKII is listed right now at $699, that’s a $200 difference. I would be in the end though it’ll be closer to a $300 difference with the street price of the MKII probably settling around $599.
in difference to what posters above wrote, the price difference between the MKII and the S4 is 300 bucks. not feeling the MKII, either, but let’s stick to the facts nevertheless
@ Greg Johnson,
You make me wanna cry, boo hoo hoo. You go boy (sniffles)…dig deep (sniffles) EAN, and turn shit to gold. You go boy, make something outta nothin’…(Sniffles)!
Yo VESTAX, what you smoking? LOL!!
Why bother making something that is near enough the same as you buy already, they could of had some sort of thought on the matter. Vestax could easily be the first to have a controller with 4 jogs and transport controls for example. If this was the case everyone who had a VCI 100 and decided to up grade has already got a decent soundcard and would’nt need a crappy built-in one.
so they merged a spin and a tr-1. sounds good to me, but i will wait for a review of the final product. i know there are plastics that challenge aluminium in durability and if this thing is build with one of those it’ll be as durable as the old one and lighter. although less weight will give you the feeling of a toy…..
Ean you take this vci-100Mk2 and bring it into the NEXT as you did with the vci-100se,
what an amazing feat. dig down deep and show Vestax your no accident you just happen to be
on and about the purpose of music and creativity you can do it again don’t forget what you do is Golden now you have 3 controllers everybody cant do what a player do ! I see you Player.
Vestax, you bithces!! Are you listeningggggggg…..zzzzzzz…..yourrrrr product sssssucksss…..zzzz…
[quote comment=”37948″]Ok, last one. WHATS SO DIFFICULT!? TRAKTOR, 4 DECKS, 4 CHANEL FADERS! DESING CONTROLLERS AROUND THAT! THANKS FOR THE S4. WHAT SOOO DIFFICULT!?[/quote]
I’m with you on this dude, I commented something like that in the herc’s post
i like it…
and im not really defending rmx owners at all…just like deflating bloated egos 🙂
[quote comment=”37967″]sm00sh my turntablism routines are on my soundcloud.. or If U wanna battle I live in Denver and Will be in San Diego for halloween if your a cali kid. PM me If your around those two locations.. Plz plz plz plz bring your hercules… and pray hard.
And yes your RMX console and SYNC button doesnt make u a fucking DJ.[/quote]
lolz dude this isnt a pokemon show down…
i dont own a rmx…cd wallet is still my weapon of choice.
i dont give two shits about your faux hip hop scratches over shitty top 40 tunes. lets see who can rock a club harder. ill invite you out next time I play at spin or red-c lounge out there is sd.
and i will also be in san diego around halloween so id love to arrange something.
…oh and chief dont forget to link that soundcloud im sure we all love to hear it.
Cause the prototype VCI 100 MKII thing defiantly blows.
maybe it’s a marketing ploy to get the users of the VCI 100 off the band wagon because the VCI 200 is just around the corner. They may be waiting to see how the S4 sells before they release it. Just thinking out loud.
A: Plastic……you could hear the controller bounce around a little as he set it down.
B: The joystick……while this may have seemed like a good idea your more likely to hit the deck control sticks, EQ’s, and FX controls.
C: pitch faders the same length….really? They do realize that most alot of DJ’s starting out will have to learn to beatmatch right(Controller is obviously aimed at Start up DJ’s)?
D: Smaller buttons = harder to hit in the dark. Doesn’t matter if they light up.
There are some pro’s, but not enough to upgrade from a original VCI-100.
The start up DJ’s they can get a better deal with a hercules rather then this.
Did Vestax even attempt to consult anyone on this model?
sm00sh my turntablism routines are on my soundcloud.. or If U wanna battle I live in Denver and Will be in San Diego for halloween if your a cali kid. PM me If your around those two locations.. Plz plz plz plz bring your hercules… and pray hard.
And yes your RMX console and SYNC button doesnt make u a fucking DJ.
Count me among those that are interested in the hardware as a controller but want nothing to do with the integrated sound card. Just seems like it, and the price, are a little bloated for where things are heading. At least the market it developing, that’s a plus.
no way im buying this VCI 100-MKII for 699$,
whan traktor S4 is out in a month for 899$ !!
yha i know it’s a lot more but you also get A LOT more out
of the S4 controller !!
fail
I admit even though I am not in the market for a new controller right now, I got a little excited with the surprise that VESTAX VCI 100 Part 2 was produced. But after seeing Ean’s quick and very unenthusiastic vid about this thing, my high was killed.
A few points:
I can understand Ean’s approach. Over the years he has put a lot of time and effort both in corresponding with Vestax and in creating a community built around (mostly) the VCI. I would be disappointed too if my expertise that revived an overlooked controller was not used in constructing a new version. However, I have also thought about the fact that Ean was busy consulting NI, and perhaps there was a contract clause that did not permit him to consult with a manufacturer of a competing midi-controller.
Even if the last scenario were true, as many have pointed out it simply would take a decent Vestax researcher to track sites such as TechTools to garner real user feedback and use of their products in order to improve upon the next one.
The resulting product and specs that we see (and especially news of discontinuing the original VCI-100) is thus very disappointing. No metal chassis, same short pitch faders, what appears to be plastic caps for the knobs and faders (again).
I do appreciate the EFX section and manual switch for toggling the decks. I am indifferent to the built-in soundcard, because I do enjoy not having extra wires, but do not know the reliability or sound quality of Vestax’s sound cards. Overall though, I can’t help but feel that Vestax dropped the ball on this one, especially since the arrival of S4 and other controllers.
As a note to a few posters: TechTools has been adding more posts about new gear because of the upcoming show BPM and holidays. Manufacturers are sending press releases to tech/gear sites to get a jump on sales. No need to complain. Besides it should be obvious, but the phrase “TechTools” embodies more than just tutorials.
And alas, gear is important to this community. That’s why we are here. Both that and the DJ part is implied or blatantly stated in the phrase “DJ TechTools.” Therefore most peeps that visit this site are DJs or aspiring ones. The music part is naturally essential and regardless of what tools you use to play/mix is why most of us are DJs in the first place. But again, some of the tools that are highlighted in the site is gear to improve and elevate our passion and profession (and nerdiness). Quality is of importance, regardless of the size of crowd you rock, especially if you are being paid and relied upon. As you have noticed, the site has expanded its repertoire by including articles for producing/promoting shows, finding/buying music, etc., tools for building yourself as a successful DJ.
P.S.
My apologies about the extended rant, but I just can’t stand it when people complain about content on this site or inexplicably diss its readers and users. This site and others like it have been produced to help the modern digital DJ and hopefully enrich/foster the DJ community as a whole. It goes without saying, but if you don’t like it, at least use your knowledgeable suggestions to reach out to Ean and clan, and offer to improve it. If not, then you can ride a bike I suppose.
[quote comment=”37920″]So many of you want to hate on this & the new Hercules controller. What I would love to know is.. how many of you are Real djs? How many of you rock clubs & bars every week? Are you going to really hate on a dj using this controller .. would you hate on me for using an rmx?? It’s not about what you use.. its about the music! You can have 1200s or click a mouse. It’s 2010.. people don’t give a sh**t what you use.. I’d rock this.. the new Hercules controller.. shit a typhoon & still rock a party. Don’t hate.. adapt and step your dj game up.[/quote]
Got some music to back all that up????
I feel like DJ’s with cheap consoles get hated on because the music is usually bad… and I walk up to you and say … hey you wanna battle? Wanna scratch over my set? Wanna grab records out of this random bag and Tag with me? Your Answer is most likely No, No, No because your a hercules console (wannabe) DJ ;(
Just because your a “DJ” doesn’t mean your a good DJ.
And on the flip side of that coin… I just don’t see why anyone who plays good music, gets booked and is very solid with technicals would ever be caught dead on a entry level console… they just feel like shit.
lets do the VCI 100 math…
VCI-100 = gets no respect
Midi Fighter + my DJM 800 + blunt > any VCI-100
and yes I owned a Arcade edition glad I sold it when the market was hot.
Hi Guy’s
I am very disappointed with the VCI- 100 MKII.
It offers no advantages for any VCI-100SE/Arcade Edition owner.
It looks like an entry model DJ controller and as for the plastic construction….?
DJTT have spent years in modify and delivering enhancements to the VCI-100 MK1 that the surpass the functionality delivered in high end DJ rigs.
Vestax has done themselves a disservice by not listening to the DJTT community to including feature and functionality that the DJ community crave for.
It’s about time that DJTT look for a manufacture to create their own DJ Controller interface delivering the tools and enchantments that make the current VCI-100 a joy to use.
I will continue to use my existing VCI-100 arcade for as long as DJTT continue to support it. The only other contender in the current market place is the Native Instruments S4. If DJTT deliver custom map with similar functionality as they have delivered for the VCI then there will be a mass exidus. The new VCI-100 MKII will be the nail in the coffin for the product and I know that the community feels the same.
Ean let us know you thoughts, we are all looking for your opinion on this
Regards
De-Lloyd
This is driving me crazy, they already have the elements to do the perfect controller: Why don´t they just simply add jog wheels to a
VESTAX TR 1 KAITO????
This controller was specifically designed for TRAKTOR PRO.
The only thing missing in this controller are the jog wheels.
Just take a closer look to the controller and you could see that it has the same high quality knobs, faders, buttons etc… as you could find on the rock solid mixers like: Vestax PMC-50-A.
To be honest this was the next step i was specting from VESTAX.
Please it is so obvious, just add the wheels to the Kaito and you´ll have the definite compact 4 deck controller.
Please, Please, Please, Please, Keep the Old VCI-100SE in the stores! I hate the idea of built in sound cards and loosing the metallic feel. And no arcade upgrade options!!!???!! I am saving where I can to get a VCI-100SE, but if discontinues before I can purchase one I’ll go crazy. The original VCI-100 arcade made this website, please don’t abandon it!
Such a disapointment vrom Vestax. They could have raise the bar after all the 4 decks controller announced recently (VMS4, S4, MC6000) and build on their improvements in firmware and collaboration with Ean to release the ultimate 4-deck controller. But no, they decided to take the easy way and improve their
Typhoon toyish controller, and kill their VCI100MK1, to release the MK2. This should have been called the TyphoonMK2 instead and be compatible with DJHero.
The only plus is the 4 FX knobs. So 2 thumbs down to Vestax for the VCI100MK2. As others have pointed already, just a few more bucks and you can have an S4. So S4 is the way to go.
So many new controller posts…
Will we see some new Tutorials in the next time? 😀
Ok, last one. WHATS SO DIFFICULT!? TRAKTOR, 4 DECKS, 4 CHANEL FADERS! DESING CONTROLLERS AROUND THAT! THANKS FOR THE S4. WHAT SOOO DIFFICULT!?
[quote comment=”37894″]Hate?
Nope disappoint.
The DJTT community built the original VCI-100 to what it is today and Vestax chose to ignore this with there updated controller.
Sorry but I am done supporting companies who don’t listen to their users.
Viva la VCI-100 MK1!!![/quote]
Anyone who’s tried to get in touch with Vestax Customer support will understand Fresh’s comment here. As many here have written, the Mk2 should be better in every aspect not a compromise on various bits to accommodate new features in cost saving techniques that negates the qualities that made the VCI-100 superior to it’s competitors.
Value for money I think there’s better on the market. maybe even the VMS4?
Hey, Techtools? You guys can’t be posting articles like this anymore.Are we seriuos dj’s or what!? I got up nice and early, hot tea in hand, looking forward to some cool shit on Techtools. I feel if you play with this thing enogh, shits gonna fall off it like a hubcab falling off a cars wheel. Geez!!
I wonder if Vestax reps evr bother to monitor this DJTECHTOOLS site. You would think they would, huh? Or, maybe not! Or they must’ve been out to lunch…a very, very long lunch!
@ PADDy,
You have a point. Yes, I agree with you. It’s just that if you’ve a vci100 user and ahve been through all it’s morhing stages, you would think that Vestax would have done better. MKII, tah dah!! It’s like a wet noodle.This is a next gen thing…c’om. Thwy should have put the work in and giving us, vci100 users, something that might compete with s4.
lolz i bet vestax is not to pleased with the resent djtt firmware updates to the mk1. it makes the original vci a no brainer purchase in my opinion….
This was the look on my face after reading this article: (O_O)<—-(as Cartman would say)…"are fucking kidding me!!?"
[quote comment=”37920″]So many of you want to hate on this & the new Hercules controller. What I would love to know is.. how many of you are Real djs? How many of you rock clubs & bars every week? Are you going to really hate on a dj using this controller .. would you hate on me for using an rmx?? It’s not about what you use.. its about the music! You can have 1200s or click a mouse. It’s 2010.. people don’t give a sh**t what you use.. I’d rock this.. the new Hercules controller.. shit a typhoon & still rock a party. Don’t hate.. adapt and step your dj game up.[/quote]
I do, but just dislike the path the manufacturers have chosen for these products, not the end user.
regarding de new vci: i like the new fx left section but plastic construction, hmmm i move around my controller a lot and just need something that can won’t start falling apart. If they did keep the aluminum casing, it would have been epic.
4rmx: you can get things MUCH better for that buck and it’s an ergonomics crime
I’m pretty sure they will sell nicely, but mainly in the begginer/bedroom market.
I hope the new vci keeps the feel of the old one, but the hercules just reminds me of my old bcd3000 (click).
I’m all into “music is the only thing that matters” thingie, but a controller that responds smoothly certainly helps the workflow a lot.
btw, i use a big blinking toy (apc40) with tpro every night and i’m used to getting “the look” from old school djs or people who just don’t get pc mixing, until they see what a good controller-mapping combo are capable of (or they get hypnotized by the blinking lights hehe)
my 2 cents 🙂
ManDingo, is thinking April Fools came and went a while ago. Whatta joke!? I can’t to think how out of touch people are. Is this really the best they could come up with!? Maybe toys are us might be interested. Maybe not!! Not for that price!200 bucks on top of that and you got yourself an S4.This posting make me not want to carry anything vci anymore. What a load of CRAP!!!
That thing looks awefull!!
No, serieus it look like a 100 dollar bart smith toy or something.
When did/will Traktor Scratch Pro get high resolution midi support? Not much point having high resolution jog wheels on your controller otherwise right?
@ C-dawg
Great comment, its true that sometimes people forget about the essential : the music.
How come you guys are disappointed there’s no arcade buttons?
It was obvious! Arcade buttons are for a niche market. And if vestax would make a vci with arcade buttons, then DJTT would run out of business!
Now my 2cents on the controller.
At first I really didn’t like it, but right now I’m feeling it’s not that bad.
What really sucks is the styling. I don’t know who designed this, but it looks like one of those gamers mod computer, while the older vci looked like a MacBook.
Plastic is not really a problem if there is a metal faceplate (think kontrol x1, or even cdjs!)
The layout is so much better than the previous one. High resolution pitch and jogwheel. Nice
Too bad there are no meters like on the vci300. Too bad they didn’t keep the big cue button of the 300.
The question is : what will the feel of the unit be like?
I’m not gonna make a lengthy speech about this because most of what I’d say, has already been said.
I just want to go on record of saying what a piece of shit this looks like. I can’t believe Vestax pulls something like this as a MK2 version of a product which upon release was absolutely mind blowing. Teamed with Ean’s magical touch, the VCI100 totally raped the market.
Not including him in the development of a follow up product like that is just beyond me. Vestax, you suck.
Why the hell is every maker use this inboard soundcard! Yeah. i got the point that its smoother to set up in a club. But i you fry the soundcard. You´re totally busted and have to send the whole controller in for repair. Instead of just buy/borrow a sound card in the meantime. When i´m on tour i always have a spare soundcard in the box. Just in case. Cheers MiX.
for 400 or 500 might be good but 699? Given similar sound quality id take the hybrid controller/mixer Denon MC6000 over this any day.
699.00 is WAY too much though.
So many of you want to hate on this & the new Hercules controller. What I would love to know is.. how many of you are Real djs? How many of you rock clubs & bars every week? Are you going to really hate on a dj using this controller .. would you hate on me for using an rmx?? It’s not about what you use.. its about the music! You can have 1200s or click a mouse. It’s 2010.. people don’t give a sh**t what you use.. I’d rock this.. the new Hercules controller.. shit a typhoon & still rock a party. Don’t hate.. adapt and step your dj game up.
Isn’t the S4 also plastic?
I think the layout is perfect for TP, and the two banks can work well for whenever TP gets the upgraded sampler decks. The VCI-100 originally was silver and we just put a black sticker/overlay on them. Now I hope the quality of the buttons and faders are the same as the 300.
There really is a ton of hate on this thing because it’s no the “SE” which btw has many shortfalls that this overcomes.
I guess that answered my question about not finding a VCI-100 at the local Guitar Center!
Looks okay. . .I would’ve like a metal bottom housing instead of the weird plastic-y, “Halo Reach”-ish looking thing. . . .I just hope there’s enough of a standard that Vestax can keep some production of the VCI-100’s. . . The included sound card isn’t sitting well with me right now!
I guess it’s off to save up and finally get one now. . . .
3 Product Posts in 3 days… awesome!!
Significant improvement in layout and better colour scheme with the knobs at least. On the whole, the plastic casing and metal faceplate will likely prove more practical but I do feel the silver/black colour scheme does look a little cheap. The lighting strips one either side of the device worsen that by being completely fucking superfluous. Get rid of those, black the whole thing out and I doubt everyone will complain as much.
The jogwheels also look substantially better and only time will tell as to whether the soundcard is up to snuff. No use bashing the thing before anyone has even had an opportunity to test it properly. The S4 is a completely different device too so I don’t think there’s really cause for comparison.
[quote comment=”37902″]Today? Really Vestax? The day just before I was gonna buy the ARcade Edition? Are you kidding????????? OMfG !!![/quote]
Buy the arcade edition. You will not be disappointed.
The layout is a plus BUT its a shame NO ARCADE mod !!! GRRRR!!
And PLASTIC 🙁
🙁
toytown
Today? Really Vestax? The day just before I was gonna buy the ARcade Edition? Are you kidding????????? OMfG !!!
YEEEES! I now have a collector’s first edition VCI 100!
But seriously, this is an april fools too late right?
First that sh*itty Allen&Heath sub92 mixer now This! What’s next plastic 1200?
God! someone should get fired.
I like the revised layout, especially the FX buttons and dials for each deck. This was the one thing that was missing from the original.
HATE the styling. HATE the blue light down the side. HATE the black plastic corners. Not crazy about the black platters.
Overall they seem to have really cheapened a great product. Pretty sure the plastic build is to reduce the cost enough to include a soundcard and maintain a similar price point, begs the question as to what kind of quality the soundcard will be and I don’t hold out much hope.
They seem to have deliberately turned the VCI into a tacky looking toy, aimed at the bedroom enthusiast. Fair enough if they are about to release a higher end product aimed at pros, otherwise, this is basically The Phantom Menace.
No Offense, but this looks horrible, it looks like a half-step up from Spin/Typhoon. It basically looks like a toy… They need to take the same concepts and add it the old VCI-100 and call it a day… they are trying to hard
So all they had to do was stick 14bit faders and hi-res jog wheels and the new button layout into a VCI-100 chassis, and sell a version with and without the soundcard.
And instead we get plastic, and lights on the side of the unit. Lights on the side of the unit!
I am sad that they went to the plastic body. That’s one of the wonderful things that makes the original feel like a professional piece of kit. Sure, it’s nice to have pretty lights but you can buy those separately. Also, if the faders are as bad as they were described then I’m afraid as to what that’d do to beloved fader fx. The only up-side to this is that it might drive the original prices down so I could have the money to buy one.
Any word on the hat that it’s supposed to come with?
Hate?
Nope disappoint.
The DJTT community built the original VCI-100 to what it is today and Vestax chose to ignore this with there updated controller.
Sorry but I am done supporting companies who don’t listen to their users.
Viva la VCI-100 MK1!!!
The jog wheels look very impressive and there’s nothing wrong with plastic, unless you suddenly need to use your controller as a weapon.
If only Ean was the CEO of Vestax, the mk11 would have been the perfect arcade button smashing machine!
One thing I love most about my VCI 100 is the chassis. Plastic is definitely a deterrent.
Thinking about now only referring to my Vci-100 as “The MK1” & giving it Iron Man colors. Would never pay that price for the MKII. Super disappointed to see that no arcade buttons would be available. >.<
God it’s so disappointing… lord only knows why they didn’t ask Ean to consult on it. conflict of interest maybe with S4.
Agreed this will drive up price of VCI100 SE/Arcades for sure.
The layout of the FX banks matching TPro is only bonus but it’s not enough.
Fader FX mode FTW!!!!!!!
I’d say still do MK1 SE/ARCADE editions for sure. That’s your major USP.
They just lost me with the plastic casing.I can accept the other uncomfortable stuff,but the VCI-100 being all metal was the main reason i bought one!
And as others said,with just a little bit more cash you can get a S4,so i think this controller is out of the game already..
the 4-Mx looks much more promising than this… plastic casing?
I’m surprised at all the hateration here. The layout of the MkII fixes all the things that I didn’t like in the MkI. As much as I love the hard work of the DJTT team and the custom mappings, it is much easier to just have 8 dedicated efx knobs, this solves so many of the problems – not to mention the fact that i don’t need to zap the firmware to get buttons to work, HD, etc. I would like to see a version of this without the included sound card since most of us who use this thing for a paid gig are going to want a higher-end interface than they’re going to be able to afford to put in there – or they could put in real I/O – balanced outs at a minimum. Just makes me think the D/A converters are probably not that great. The faders on the MkI are so fragile, the thing has to be babied when carrying it around to gigs anyway, so I’m not sure how much I care about the plastic/metal issue. I’d have to see it. Honestly I just want the Mk2 layout with no faders and no soundcard so I can couple it with an analog mixer for a proper mixing sound.
I was waiting for Vestax to see what they was coming out next with. I use the VCI-100 now. After the video for this new VCI-100, I will be getting a Kontrol S4. Thanx Vestax for this poor piece.
Oh, hells no. Major disappointment. Viva la Mk1 !!
not totally feeling this if i’m honest – based on appearance, but something makes me want it. vestax fanboy, lol
I’ll take a MK1 SE any day over this model. Seems nice, but $600 for plastic seems like a rip off.
The built-in sound card is very attractive, but not the plastic casing. I love the feeling that my VCI-100 feels like a tank, though I’ve never tested its durability. There doesn’t seem to be that many new features that would change my game, leaving the cheap plastic chassis enough of a reason to not “upgrade” to the mk2. And let’s not forget that you can’t add arcade buttons…
LAME
Seems like an over-price mediocre product. Vestax made a great couple of products with the VCI 100 and 300 (especially, DJTT SE version).
With the Spin and MK2, they seem to be gearing towards a different non-professional market.
Makes me love my VCI100se even more. I can see the Mk1 VCI100 being in massive demand now that it maybe discontinued.
This is another mistake by Vestax who do not seem to be listening to customers.
that is exactly how i wanted the FX controls to be!!! awesome
Wow, Im like the new MK2, the fx layout looks great, cant wait to try one out.
I don’t get it…they already have the Typhoon. Why make another “beginner” controller. I agree…they should have built off of the DJTT VCI-100. Of course..I sold mine right before the 1.4FW was released…grrrr.
You don’t seem too thrilled at all Ean in this video. You can tell your disappointed! Lol, you seem ALOT more excited about the S4 then this thing. Which, as already stated…is only a bill more then this thing.
Now I’m not that worried about the street price of my used VCI-100 going down. Might even go up a tad when stores are all out of them and this plastic junk is all that’s available.
still no lightbox on those images…
Yet another product that continues to prove Vestax are not only great but also great at being idiots. It really wouldn’t be that hard to make the mark 2 perfect for nearly everyone, since day one Vestax have led the way with groundbreaking products but they never EVER follow up and build on there previous products strengths, there history shows that time and time again that instead of taking a brilliant idea to the next level, they always take a step to the side, this is why I’ve always had a love hate feeling towards the brand.
Well i guess Vestax reads the signs of the market and decided to get into this “cheap plastic Beginner DJ Market” which of course promises a lot more Market share and Revenue…
If the VCI 100 MK2 stays the same just like this prototype i sure will stay with my VCI 100 SE.
Sad story.. since i purchased my vci 100 i thought that there were some flaws on it which could be fixed by a mk2 revision so easy.. And than we see a Vestax Spin blown up with some air…
Sad Story
Could have done way better Vestax. And definitely pushed yourself out of the Semi-Professional Market that relies on quality.
$499 maybe, $699, not even considering it
It’s incomprehensible……..why plastic ????????????????????
why an integrated soundcard ?? for sure it’ll not have not the same sound quality of an audio dj…….we’ll see 😉 but if I’m right, the vci 100 will be a better choice for sure !
I want one with metal and without integrated soundcard !!
The price is good compare to the vci 100…
vci100=400 euros // vci 100 mk2=500 euros // S4=880 euros
new plastic toy on the market lol
Minus the soundcard and if built on the original VCI chassis, I would definitely get it… but this just looks like they’re trying to make an upgraded Typhoon/Spin. I really like the 2nd FX bank though. Also really surprised not to see a 4-deck mixer in following the S4, because as this stands it is no competition to the S4.
Hopefully DJTT will continue to produce VCI-100SE’s, dunno what I would do if I were unable to replace my VCI should something happen to it (knock on wood).
looks like a downgrade from the VCI-100, tbh. the layout is horrible. do not like.
will stick with my VCI-100 [SE via store bought goodies and FW updates] until i can afford an S4. that thing is the epitome of controllers. nothing will ever come close.
From what I remember reading about the VCI 300 a lot of people disliked the sound quality from the sound card. This sucks for the end user who just wants a good VCI because now the cost of a soundcard is forced on them. Stick with the VCI 100 MK1
Looks pretty crappy to me. In the video I’m pretty sure I could hear the case rattle a lot of the time. The black plastic corner covers don’t look good and seem to be rather poorly fixed on if you look at 0.50 into the video. The lights on the side make it look even cheaper as well as the all round cheap plastic look.
As you guys said it’s a shame they didn’t just build on the original VCI.
Saying all this though I do realise it’s a prototype so I’ll give them a chance to improve it. Either way I think i’m more inclined to replace my VCI with Native Instruments new Kontrol S4 if I ever get the money together that is :P.
For an extra $80 ($81 to be exact) you can get the S4 controller… NI integrated Hardware/Software solution vs. the VCI-100 MKII with Traktor Pro… I will be one to cough up the extra $80 for Hardware designed by the company that makes the software I want to use… not to mention the additional features that the S4 software will bring.
Yawn.
This looks pretty cool – I like the additional buttons for the fx and the styling’s pretty nice imo