Wacom's DJ New Controller: NextBeat MK2



Wacom, the leading pen tablets manufacturer, has recently launched the second generation of the NextBeat, an all-in-one wireless DJ interface. After watching some videos of the product and reading others reviews of the current and previous model, my consensus is that this product's value, like many DJ controllers in an already saturated market, is solely based on preference. However, the NextBeat does pack some cool features such as its wireless interface, 16GB storage capacity, intuitive touch sensor controls and innovative live performance functions
Take a look at it here...



Wacom's entry into the DJ market is quite interesting. Maybe they also noticed the parallels of the designer and DJ. Though I was a little confused about why they did not have their R&D departments brainstorm together, maybe even incorporate their preeminent tablet technology into the product (like this?) Either way, the NextBeat MK2 is a cool new device/toy, that may excite new-entry DJs, but truly lacks innovation in technology and experience.

Technics and Marvel Make Some T-Shirts

In 2008 DMC (Disco Mix Club) in collab with Technics, Marvel Comics and Urban Species created special edition t-shirts spotlighting famous Marvel Comics' characters with the infamous Technics 1210s. An interesting project for all firms involved and proved the strong auxiliary relationship of each audience's interests. Check out some of the designs...


While I loved the idea, I thought a lot more effort could have been put into the composition. Aside from that, The Hulk one is fucking badass!

Chair Massages to the Beat of Your Music

Introducing the OMEGA Montage Elite Massage Chair with MP3 Music Player. Omega, based in Anaheim, California, has developed a massage chair surpassing luxury and border-lining regality. To name only a few features of the thrown include 4 massage techniques including needing, pressing, tapping, motorized backrest and footrest, reflexology modules and a music therapy system with a synchronized massage.
View all the deets here.

XLR8R's Vis-Ed Special Edition Magazine

One of my favorite magazines, the San Francisco and NYC based, XLR8R has a segment in all their issues dubbed "Vis-Ed". "Vis-Ed" serves as a platform for the exhibition of inspiring visual artists and designers creating artwork as well as central work for some of the most influential and talented musicians, artists and labels, and ultimately shaping a movement analogous to what graffiti fulfilled in hip hop culture. Take a look at their Vis-Ed Special Edition Magazine which came out a few years back that features some incredible work by over 15 artists, available as a free downloadable PDF.

Multi Touch Light Table: GERGWERK

A vid of the multi-touch light table that has recently become popular. I'm not too impressed by it because of its uninspired iPhone user interface. I think it is an exciting stride in making the role of a DJ more of a celebration of technology and performance.

Creative DJ Business Card

Designed by Deepak Nagar & Nasheet Shadani for DJ Mohit of India, the business card is meant to "[replicate] the scratch console to instantly draw attention to [the] DJ’s profession as well as efficiently deliver the idea of practically scratching the disk. The card generated a lot of hype as it successfully registered with people and at the same time it got nominated in many award shows."

DJ Table - Lifestyle Furniture by DUAL

California-based DJ furniture manufacturer, Dual designs and constructs a DJ table that combines "a clean and modern design with the highest quality craftsmanship."

Inspired Graffiti


A DJ in a graffiti piece at Five Points in Queens.
Thanks to Pat White for letting me use his amazing camera to shoot this!