Soundbytes

LITE BITE
Looking for a portable lightweight controller for your digital DJ set-up? Then consider Stanton’s new SCS System 3 package, which contains two of their revolutionary SCS.3d controllers with new SCS.3m Midi mixer, all in one box. They’ve even thrown in Native Instruments’ Traktor LE software for good measure. stantondj.com

MIGHTY PUNCH
The new Firewire interface from RME is small but packs a mighty punch, with eight analogue in and out connections. The Fireface UC USB audio interface works with both PCs and Macs and boasts the same sound quality as the rest of the RME family. Its heavyweight functions will set you back £703 though. rme-audio.de

FORGING AHEAD
Sony’s digital audio production software — Soundforge — has been upgraded to version 10. Aimed at the pro audio market, the all-in-one production suite now includes DAO — disc at once — burning, which allows the user to create industry standard audio CDs without the need for extra editing and burning software. Cost £330 sonycreativesoftware.com/soundforge

HYBRID
DJ-Tech’s Hybrid 202 is a USB Midi controller that follows the traditional mixer and deck type format and is designed to interact with DJ software like Traktor, Decadance and Mixvibes Crosspack. It even comes with a built-in soundcard and FX. djtechpro.com

BACK TO SCHOOL
Manchester Midi School have teamed up with top DJs and producers King Unique, Crazy P and Dave Haslam to bring an exciting range of new music production courses to the masses. Courses run throughout the year. For more info contact midischool.com