2005 NAMM Summer Session: Numark, the name synonymous with innovation in professional DJ equipment, proudly introduces the HDCD1, a rack-mountable, dual CD player with built-in hard drive. The first music playback system of its kind developed specifically for the professional DJ, the HDCD1 can store an entire DJ collection for the ultimate in portability, organization, and convenience. MP3s and uncompressed audio files can be ripped from either of the built-in CD players, transferred from computer via USB, and even recorded from turntables and other sources through the unit’s analog line inputs.

With an 80 GB internal hard drive, the new HDCD1 can store a tremendous amount of music—particularly if those files are in the popular MP3 format. The HDCD1 features dual jumbo displays with dedicated controls, making system navigation and file search quick and simple. There is an onboard CDDB database for instant recognition of song title, artist, and genre when using commercial CDs. The HDCD1 even includes a standard PC-style keyboard that facilitates easy searches. Songs and playlists can be searched by title, artist, album, or genre. Additionally, the HDCD1’s included software enables upload and back-up download of music files, song and playlist data editing, plus the ability to export song lists as text.

As a professional CD player, the HDCD1 excels. This outstanding music playback system features dual CD transports and can operate as a standalone professional dual CD player—featuring full compatibility with CD, CD-R/CD-RW, and Data (MP3) disc formats.

The new HDCD1 provides all the functionality professional DJs demand, including pitch control, instant start, relay start, and seamless looping with stutter start. Play modes include single, continuous, random, repeat single, and repeat continuous. Playlists can be made and stored while the unit is operating. This way, sets can be made on the fly, saved, and then used at future events.

Numark CEO Jack O’Donnell commented on the company’s new HDCD1, “We are very pleased to introduce the world’s first Hard Drive / CD / MP3 system for the professional DJ. The HDCD1 demonstrates Numark’s commitment to empowering DJs with innovative technology.”

With a suggested retail price of $2,199, Numark’s new HDCD1 Dual CD Player with Hard Drive re-defines the term state-of-the-art in music playback systems developed for the DJ market. The HDCD1 Dual CD Player with Hard Drive will be available Q3 of 2005.