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Standalone DJ Gear, AI Assistants, TikTok’s EDM Hub & The AR Revolution!

This week, we’re diving into the latest tech trends—from Pioneer’s new standalone controller to Microsoft’s AI-driven Copilot Studio. Plus, check out TikTok’s new Electronic Music Hub and the race for AR wearables that could change how you perform and create!

Going Solo: The Standalone That’ll Make You Forget Your Laptop

If you’ve been looking to leave the laptop behind but still want full creative control over your set, Pioneer’s new XDJ-AZ Standalone might be just what you’re after. With four-deck power and a sleek design, it’s giving off serious Opus Quadvibes—but with a few twists that make it stand out (for better and worse).

Let’s dive into the XDJ-AZ, how it stacks up against the Opus Quad, and why it could be the answer to your standalone DJing dreams—unless it’s not.

Key Features:

  • Four Decks for the Brave: The XDJ-AZ comes packing four decks, so if you’re tired of being limited to just two or three, this is your playground. You can layer tracks, mix loops, and juggle effects across all four channels, giving you maximum control over your sound. It’s a big plus for DJs who want to push boundaries and get experimental.

  • Standalone Setup: Just like the Opus Quad, the XDJ-AZ is a true standalone unit. No laptop required—just load your tracks via USB, and you’re ready to roll. This makes it perfect for those who don’t want to rely on a computer mid-set (or deal with laptop crashes…we’ve all been there).

  • Touchscreen: The 7-inch high-res touchscreen gives you easy access to everything—browsing tracks, setting loops, adjusting effects—all at your fingertips. While it’s not as large or flashy as the Opus Quad’s 10-inch screen, it gets the job done without overwhelming you with too much info. Think sleek and efficient.

  • Performance Pads & Jog Wheels: The jog wheels are full-sized and feel solid, just like what you’d expect from Pioneer. You also get eight performance pads for each deck, so you can cue, loop, and sample to your heart’s content. It’s classic Pioneer gear through and through.

  • Rekordbox Integration: Like the Opus Quad, the XDJ-AZ syncs perfectly with Rekordbox, letting you manage your tracks, prep your sets, and keep everything organized. If you’re already a Rekordbox user, this will fit right into your workflow without a hitch.

XDJ-AZ vs. Opus Quad: How Does It Stack Up?

  • Price Point: While the Opus Quad is positioned as a premium product with a hefty price tag, the XDJ-AZ offers many of the same features at a more budget-friendly cost. You still get four decks and a standalone setup, but without breaking the bank as much.

  • Portability: The XDJ-AZ is more compact and portable compared to the larger Opus Quad, making it ideal for mobile DJs or those who want a powerful unit without hauling around a massive setup. However, if you’re into the aesthetics of a larger, more visually impressive setup, the Opus Quad might still catch your eye.

  • Screen Size: The Opus Quad wins with its 10-inch screen, offering more space for browsing and managing your tracks. The XDJ-AZ’s 7-inch screen is no slouch, but if you’re used to bigger displays, you might miss the extra real estate.

Why DJs Should Care:

The XDJ-AZ Standalone is a serious contender for DJs who want a powerful, laptop-free setup without blowing their entire budget. It offers the flexibility of four decks, intuitive controls, and solid Rekordbox integration at a price that won’t make you cry. While it doesn’t quite have the flash or massive screen of the Opus Quad, it’s portable, sleek, and perfect for DJs who prioritize function over form.

Would You Switch To A Standalone Controller?

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In last weeks poll about the wireless headphones, we found that 45% replied I’m sticking with my trusty wired setup—no latency for me!

Microsoft’s CoPilot Studio Unlocks Autonomous Agent Capabilities

Microsoft is stepping up the AI game with its new Copilot Studio, offering autonomous agent capabilities that are set to change how we interact with technology. Whether you're building a business, managing creative projects, or even crafting music sets, Microsoft Copilot Studio is designed to assist you with a level of autonomy that's like having a personal assistant who never sleeps.

What is Copilot Studio?

Microsoft’s Copilot Studio allows users to create autonomous AI agents that can complete tasks on their own, manage workflows, and even solve complex problems without needing constant human input. Imagine setting up an AI assistant that can handle your to-do list, automate your marketing, or even curate your next DJ set. Sounds good, right?

With these new agent capabilities, Copilot Studio is all about streamlining processes, making your life easier, and giving you the time to focus on the creative or strategic aspects of your projects.

Key Features:

  • Autonomous Agents: Create AI agents that can perform specific tasks without constant oversight. Whether it’s sorting your emails or managing your schedule, these agents are designed to take care of business.

  • Customizable Workflows: Tailor Copilot Studio’s capabilities to suit your personal or professional needs. You can set up workflows that are as simple or as complex as you need, leaving the repetitive tasks to your AI sidekick.

  • Intuitive Interface: The platform is designed to be user-friendly, meaning you don’t need to be a tech wizard to create powerful AI agents that can handle serious tasks.

Why DJs and Creatives Should Care:

Imagine having an AI that helps you manage your bookings, curates your playlists, and automates your social media marketing—all while you’re busy creating or performing. Microsoft Copilot Studio offers endless possibilities for DJs, producers, and creative professionals. By automating the boring stuff, you can focus more on the fun, creative side of things. And if you’ve ever wished for an assistant to handle all those tiny tasks that eat up your time, this might be the tool you’ve been waiting for.

TikTok Launches Electronic Music Hub - DJs, This One’s For You!

TikTok just gave electronic music lovers something to get excited about—introducing their brand-new Electronic Music Hub. In a move that cements the platform’s growing influence in the music world, TikTok is doubling down on the electronic genre, making it easier than ever for DJs and fans to discover, share, and vibe with the latest in EDM, house, techno, and more.

What’s the TikTok Electronic Music Hub?

The Electronic Music Hub is a dedicated space on TikTok where users can find everything related to electronic music. Whether you’re into club bangers, underground tracks, or experimental beats, this hub brings together the best of electronic music in one place. Think trending tracks, DJ performances, artist profiles, and user-generated content, all curated to keep you in the loop on what’s hot.

Key Features:

  • Trending Electronic Tracks: Stay up-to-date with the hottest tracks that are blowing up on TikTok. Perfect for DJs looking to add the latest bangers to their sets.

  • DJ Performances and Remixes: TikTok’s new hub will feature exclusive DJ performances, remixes, and creative content that electronic music lovers can’t get enough of.

  • User-Generated Content: TikTok’s community is at the heart of this hub, encouraging fans and DJs to share their own remixes, sets, and creative spins on popular tracks.

Why DJs Should Care:

For DJs, this is a golden opportunity. TikTok’s Electronic Music Hub makes it easier to stay plugged into what’s trending and to share your own content with a massive audience. With TikTok’s algorithm pushing fresh music to the forefront, your tracks and remixes could blow up and reach new audiences worldwide. Whether you’re looking to get inspired, share your latest set, or find new music to add to your rotation, this hub is a game-changer.

Who’s Winning The AR Wearables Race?

The race to dominate the AR (augmented reality) wearables space is heating up, with tech giants like Apple, Meta, and Google all vying for the crown. But who’s really leading the charge in this futuristic arms race? As more companies dive into augmented reality, it’s clear that AR glasses and headsets are poised to change how we work, play, and even DJ.

According to Social Media Today, the competition is fierce, and each major player is taking a unique approach to capturing the market. Let’s break down what’s happening in the world of AR wearables and see who’s got the edge.

Key Contenders:

  • Apple: With rumors swirling around the upcoming Apple Vision Pro, Apple’s focus is on sleek design and seamless integration with their existing ecosystem. Think immersive experiences that work with all your favorite Apple devices, plus the potential for AR-enhanced productivity, gaming, and live performances.

  • Meta: Meta’s AR wearables, such as the recently announced Meta Quest 3 and the upcoming Orion glasses, are all about immersive experiences for both everyday users and creatives. Meta is betting big on social experiences in augmented reality, making it easy for users to interact with the digital world as part of their daily lives.

  • Google: Google hasn’t fully stepped out of the AR race just yet. While Google Glass may have had its ups and downs, Google is still working on AR-focused software and hardware that could change how we interact with information, blending the digital and physical worlds more than ever.

Why DJs and Creatives Should Care:

For DJs, musicians, and creative professionals, AR wearables have massive potential. Imagine performing a set with real-time AR overlays that help you manage your gear, interact with your audience, or even visualize your sound in a completely new way. These wearables could help you stay ahead of the curve, offering a new dimension to live performances and production.

While the winner of the AR wearables race is still undecided, it’s clear that the tech is evolving fast—and it’s only a matter of time before AR glasses become a go-to tool for creatives.

In this video, Aaron shares his top 10 most played tracks as a mobile DJ in 2024. Whether you’re a fellow DJ looking for inspiration or a music lover wanting to know the hottest tracks of the year, this list is packed with the hit songs that have been making waves at events and parties. Aaron breaks down each track, sharing insights on why they’re crowd favorites, the energy they bring to the dance floor, and tips on how to seamlessly mix them into your own sets. From chart-toppers to underground gems, these tracks are essential for any DJ playlist in 2024!

Ready to level up your DJ game? Join Crate Hackers now and start hacking your way to the ultimate playlist! 👉 Get your 7 day free trial here

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Have you ever prepared a fire latin setlist for your event and it falls flat because you find out they all actually want Nortenas, not Bachata or Salsa? Yup me too. I ended up having to play from an Apple Music Playlist that one of the guests hit me with. Never again, thanks to Kai Torres

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