DJ Tech iScratch 201 Professional CD/MP3/USB Multi Player Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The DJ Tech iScratch 201 is a versatile multi-media player designed for professional DJs. It supports playback from various sources including audio CDs, WAV files, MP3 files, and USB storage devices. Beyond media playback, the iScratch 201 can also function as a USB MIDI controller, allowing seamless integration with your preferred DJ software. This manual provides comprehensive instructions for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your iScratch 201 to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Key features include a large touch-sensitive jog wheel for scratching, searching, and pitch bending, a 100mm pitch fader for precise tempo control, and a suite of onboard DSP effects such as Echo, Flanger, Filter, Skid, and Reverse. The unit also offers advanced looping capabilities, hot cues, and sampler banks to enhance your DJ sets.

2. Setup

Follow these steps to properly set up your DJ Tech iScratch 201:

1. Power Connection: Connect the supplied AC power cord to the AC IN port on the rear panel of the iScratch 201 and then to a suitable power outlet. Ensure the power switch is in the OFF position before connecting.
2. Audio Output: Connect the AUDIO OUT (RCA) ports on the rear panel to the input channels of your DJ mixer or audio interface using RCA cables.
3. USB/MIDI Connection: To use the iScratch 201 as a MIDI controller or for data transfer, connect a USB cable from the USB MIDI port on the rear panel to an available USB port on your computer.
4. USB Storage Device: For playing media from a USB drive, insert your USB storage device into the USB 2 port on the rear panel or the front USB port.
5. Power On: Once all connections are secure, switch the POWER ON/OFF button on the rear panel to the ON position.

Figure 2.1: Rear panel connections of the iScratch 201, including AC IN, AUDIO OUT (RCA), USB MIDI, and USB 2 ports.

3. Operating Instructions

This section details the primary functions and controls of the DJ Tech iScratch 201.

Figure 3.1: Top panel layout of the iScratch 201, highlighting the jog wheel, display, and various control buttons.

3.1 Media Playback

• CD Playback: Insert an audio CD or MP3 CD into the front-loading CD slot. The unit will automatically read the disc.
• USB Playback: Insert a USB storage device into the designated USB port. Use the 'Source Select' button to switch to USB mode.
• Track Navigation: Use the 'NEXT TRACK' and 'PREVIOUS TRACK' buttons or the 'SEARCH' function with the jog wheel to browse and select tracks.
• Play/Pause: Press the PLAY/PAUSE button to start or stop playback.

3.2 Jog Wheel Functions

The large, touch-sensitive jog wheel offers multiple functionalities:

• Scratch Mode: In scratch mode, touching and moving the jog wheel simulates vinyl scratching.
• Search Mode: Rotate the jog wheel to quickly scan through a track.
• Pitch Bend: Gently nudge the outer rim of the jog wheel to temporarily adjust the track's pitch.

3.3 Effects (FX)

The iScratch 201 includes 6 DSP BPM-synced effects:

• Activating Effects: Use the dedicated FX buttons (Scratch, Filter, Echo, Skid, Flanger, Reverse) to select an effect.
• Parameter Control: Adjust the X & Y parameters in real-time using the corresponding controls to modify the effect intensity and characteristics.

3.4 Looping and Cues

• Auto Loop: Press the 'AUTO LOOP' button to activate. Use the length selection buttons to choose loop sizes (e.g., 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 1, 2, 4, 8, 16 beats).
• Seamless Loop: Use the 'IN' and 'OUT' buttons to set loop points manually. Press 'RELOOP' to re-engage the last loop.
• Hot Cues: The 4 'HOT CUE' buttons allow you to store and instantly recall specific points in a track.
• Sampler: The 4 'SAMPLER' banks enable recording and playback of short audio samples.

3.5 Pitch Control and Key Lock

• Pitch Fader: Use the 100mm pitch fader to adjust the playback speed (tempo) of the track. Ranges include ±6%, ±12%, ±25%, and ±100%.
• Key Lock: Activate 'KEY LOCK' to change the tempo without altering the musical key of the track.

3.6 MIDI Controller Mode

Connect the iScratch 201 to your computer via USB MIDI. The unit can then be mapped to control various functions within compatible DJ software, offering a tactile control surface for your digital music library.

3.7 Hybrid Mode

The iScratch 201 features a hybrid mode that allows you to use time-coded CDs or MP3s for controlling DJ software while simultaneously utilizing the unit's built-in MIDI capabilities.

4. Features Overview

The DJ Tech iScratch 201 is equipped with a comprehensive set of features for dynamic DJ performance:

• Media Compatibility: Supports CD, USB, WAV, and MP3 formats.
• MIDI over USB: Full MIDI control for computer DJ software integration.
• Hybrid Mode: Combines time-coded media control with MIDI functionality.
• DSP Effects: 6 BPM-synced effects including Scratch, Filter, Echo, Skid, Flanger, and Reverse with direct access and X/Y parameter control.
• Auto Loop: 8 length selections with 4 direct access buttons for instant looping (Freezer function).
• Seamless Loop: Manual IN/OUT point setting with Reloop function.
• Jog Wheel: Giant, touch-sensitive jog wheel for precise scratching, searching, and pitch bending.
• Cues & Sampler: 4 Hot Cue banks and 4 Sampler banks (SSM mode: Sampler Scratch Mode).
• Pitch Control: ±6%, ±12%, ±25%, and ±100% pitch control for CDs and MP3s.
• Key Lock: ±100% Key Lock with key control for maintaining pitch during tempo changes.
• Anti-Shock Memory: 48 seconds of Anti-Shock™ buffer memory for uninterrupted playback.
• Additional Functions: Rewind to CUE effect, Relay function, Next Track function, HD Sharing, Recall Cue, and Track Scan.
• Software Included: Databox software for library management.

5. Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your iScratch 201.

• Cleaning: Regularly wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, use a slightly damp cloth and then dry thoroughly. Avoid abrasive cleaners, solvents, or waxes.
• CD Drive Care: Keep the CD slot free of dust and debris. Avoid inserting damaged or dirty CDs. Periodically use a CD lens cleaner disc if playback issues arise.
• Jog Wheel and Faders: Keep the jog wheel and faders free from liquids and dust. Do not apply excessive force to these components.
• Ventilation: Ensure the unit has adequate ventilation to prevent overheating. Do not block any ventilation openings.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the unit in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your iScratch 201, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, please contact DJ Tech customer support for further assistance.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

8.1 Warranty Information

The DJ Tech iScratch 201 comes with a 1-year limited warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions under normal use. It does not cover damage caused by misuse, accidents, unauthorized modifications, or improper installation.

Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

8.2 Customer Support

For technical assistance, warranty service, or any questions regarding your DJ Tech iScratch 201, please contact DJ Tech customer support. Refer to the official DJ Tech website or your product packaging for the most current contact information.

When contacting support, please be prepared to provide your product model number (ISCRATCH201), serial number, and a detailed description of the issue.