Alesis AirFX
It's
2001, the future, oh I mean the present, even though it seems like 2001
is some distant reality, we have yet to see. So I guess it's time for
some futuristic new toys. So on a recent trip to the DJ Expo West in San
Francisco I couldn't resist checking out the new Alesis AirFX effect processor.
The AirFX takes audio sound and changes it based on your hand motion over
the unit. Not ON the unit, OVER it!!...You don't even have to touch it.
Based on the movement of your hand on a 3-D scale (up-down (y), left-right
or (x), and closer-further away or (z)), you can alter the audio. The
X and Y axis actually change the effect, while Z changes the intensity.
Roland has had a similar 2 axis interface on several units for sometime
now. Alesis takes that one step further adding the third axis, giving
the DJ even more control. You might be thinking, "Okay, I can change
the sound... into what?"
The AirFX has 50 different preset digital signal processing effects, including
favorites like pitch shifting and panning, as well as some original presets
like Haunted, Overdrive, Perculator, Bow Wow, and Psycophase. Best of
all for digital turntablists out there, is the Vynalizer. A preset program
effect that simulates vinyl scratching, bringing CD spinning DJs the sound
of turntable scratching. All of this being with just a wave of the hand.
Hooking it up is easy. The AirFX has stereo RCA inputs and output. You
can run it between your mixer and amp (although this takes away any volume
control of effects), or you can run it in line with your players (source).
You can set the AirFX on any flat surface. If table space is limited,
mount it on a mic stand via the adapter built into the AirFX base, great
for live performances and tight situations..
Put that all together
and what do you have; a nice entry level effect box, that sounds great
and adds one of the coolest user interfaces to date. I'd recommend this
for mid-level DJs looking to start using effects and stage performers
looking to spice up their sets. Housed in a slick blue box, one dose of
this little blue pill will make you think you're in the Matrix. Get the
AirFX, try it out, then just try to stop. But don't say we didn't warn
you, Neo.
You can get more information on the AirFX at: www.Alesis.com
| Props:
Straight out of a Star Trek episode interface with patented (Axyz) infrared technology, compact size, weight and foot print, built in mic stand adapter for mounting, low price- MSRP under $249 and street prices even lower, very simple and easy to use, and 50 effects to choose from covering digital scratch emulation, phase, flange, filters, special effects and synth patches. |
| Drops:
No input or output level controls built into the unit, can only use a single effect at a time, the display only lists the effect's assigned number and not the effect name, no hold button for keeping a desired effect level without having to keep your hand over the unit, not rack mountable (I'd like to rack 2 units side by side in a 19" rack), Can only use one effect at a time, no mode for automatically syncing the effect to the tempo of the music. |
Dan Dantinne
Related gear: Pioneer
EFX-500 Effector www.pioneerprodj.com
Korg Kaoss Pad www.korg.com
If
you have a product announcement or would
like your product reviewed forward the unit, press release and picture
to:
200 North Black Horse Pike,
Suite 202
Williamstown, NJ 08094
or email at
dsinfo@digitalscratch.com.
© 2000 Under Pressure Productions