KORG handytraxx play, tube, tube J & 1bit: 4 New Turntables in the Legendary Format
Get your portablism on!
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KORG handytraxx play, tube, tube J & 1bit: 4 New Turntables in the Legendary Format · Source: KORG
[17 January 2025] As introduced at last year’s NAMM Show, KORG is now offering three more models of the handytraxx record player in addition to play. These are designed to meet different user needs. The smallest model, ‘play’, is suitable for DJs and scratching. tube and tube J feature a Korg nuTube, which of course is designed for a warmer sound. And the 1bit model is designed to appeal to vinyl collectors who want to digitise their large library to perfection.
All About KORG handytraxx
KORG handytraxx play, tube, tube J & 1bit
The handytraxx play is all about versatility and performance. Developed in collaboration with Toshihide Nakama, one of the creative minds behind the original Handy Trax, this model features Korg digital effects, a built-in audio looper and a high-quality fader optimised for precise scratching. Complemented by a custom tonearm and motor control, DJs and creative performers will have unprecedented possibilities wherever they go.
For those who prefer analogue sound, the model tube offers a sonic experience based on exclusive Nutube technology. This model uses vacuum tube technology to give the sound a harmonious warmth, supported by a high-quality JICO MM pickup for dynamic reproduction. With built-in stereo speakers and the ability to digitise records via USB, this model combines classic hi-fi values with modern features. The exclusive ‘tube J’ version with JICO Clipper pickup offers even higher playback quality for the most demanding audiophiles, making it the top of the range.
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Model 1bit is designed for music lovers who want to preserve the full range of their vinyl collection in digital perfection. This model sets new standards with the revolutionary Nutube phono equaliser technology and the ability to digitise audio in DSD quality (5.6 MHz, 1 bit). The included AudioGate 4 software makes it easy to edit and convert recordings to a variety of digital formats. Whether you are at home or on the move, this unit combines high fidelity with a portable design and extensive sound control options.
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Prices have also been set: play will cost £359, tube £699, tube J £1099 and 1bit £919. Unfortunately it is not yet known when the turntables will be available and how or where you can buy them. More information is expected after the NAMM Show 2025 in Anaheim.
Tribute to Vestax, Mobile Record Player and more
[19 January 2024] Korg is absolutely on fire for NAMM 2024. We’ve had eight articles about a whole lot of synth products from the Japanese giant in the past two days! And with the KORG handytraxx, they are paying tribute to the legendary mobile record player Vestax Handy Trax. Furthermore, during the development, Korg collaborated with Toshihide Nakama, former CEO of Vestax. Will this gadget bring the party back into the streets?
From Handy trax to handytraxx: What’s the deal with Vestax?
During the 00s, the original Vestax Handy Trax developed quite a reputation among DJs and vinyl lovers. While it was not the most audiophile solution, it had a built-in speaker and could jump-start any dying party within minutes. While there is still (as with many beloved gadgets) a secondhand market, Handy Trax has not been available for purchase for a while.
With all of its real-time effects expertise, Korg went to Toshihide Nakama, Vestax’s former CEO who also advised the development team of the original Handy Trax, and got him to collaborate on a new version: the Korg handytraxx. So now, there is a new mobile record player to celebrate Portablism again!
Korg handytraxx: Mobile Record Player with DJ effects
Korg will show an early, non-functioning prototype of the Korg handytraxx at NAMM 2024, so we assume there will be plenty of hands-on videos this time next week. Until then, here’s what we know. While the original Handy Trax had a three-dial for playing speeds 33, 45, and 78 rpm, a pitch dial, a Tone dial, and a fader-like volume control, handytraxx offers all this and much more.
It comes with built-in scratch effects, a Filter, a looper with various playing speeds, and a delay effect. There is also a built-in cue function, so you can pre-listen to a record when you’re using two handytraxx. The mobile record player also has a 3-watt speaker, and you can power it with a power bank through USB-C or AAA batteries.
Korg claims that you can even DJ with just one of these by combining the looper, the cue function, and the record player. And if that isn’t enough, you can further personalize the record player by removing the effect controls or exchanging the pickup with MM pickups.
More on the new mobile record player
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One response to “KORG handytraxx play, tube, tube J & 1bit: 4 New Turntables in the Legendary Format”
Wonderful !