New Gear Makes it Easier to Realize DJ Dreams

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) - Have you ever dreamed of being a DJ--the kind who mixes songs that keep the dance floor packed?

There is now gear hitting the market that will make it easier and cheaper for anyone to become a "jam master." "For years and years it was limited basically to two turn tables and a mixer and DJs would use vinyl," explained New York-based Dan Brotman, who run the website futuremusic.com. "And by manipulating the pitch control on the turn tables they could do that seamless mixing."

A new device, known as the Pacemaker, seeks to change that routine. "It's basically the size of a PlayStation Portable, or you know even a little bigger iPod and it'll let you basically mix two distinct songs into a seamless mix," described Brotman.

The Pacemaker is made by Tonium, which is offering its software online, for free. The software is of course compatible on the Tonium equipment, but can also be used on a Mac or PC. Tonium envisions the Pacemaker being akin to YouTube for music fans.