Hercules Mk4 - User Manual

Hercules ® Technical support - 1 -
Virtual DJ DJC Edition - Record the microphone input in the mix
Before attempting to record the microphone, it is important to understand the
various modes available in regards to the DJ Console Mk4.
Talk Over: This mode is enabled when pressing button Mic On/Off. The signal of
the microphone is automatically sent to Output 1-2 of the Mk4, along with the main
mix. This is useful when you want to talk to the audience to over the music, which
level will be reduced according to amount selected in the control panel.
However, in this mode, the microphone input cannot be recorded as the software
doesn’t get the microphone signal.
Hardware Mix mode: This function in the control panel Advanced tab does
essentially the thing as the Talk Over function, but without the level attenuation. It
can also be applied to the Line In 1-2 input.
Again, this mode is not to be used as the software doesn’t get the microphone
signal.
In order to be recorded, in Virtual DJ (or other applications), your
microphone has to be configured as an External Source, in the
same way you would use a CD player or a turntable.
1- Connect your microphone to DJ Console Mk4 microphone input.
2- Launch Virtual DJ

Summary

Virtual DJ Microphone Recording Guide

Microphone Input Modes Overview

Explains Talk Over and Hardware Mix modes, noting their limitations for recording.

Configure Microphone as External Source for Recording

Details the process of setting up the microphone as an external source for recording in Virtual DJ.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Microphone Input Modes
4. General Operation
5. Maintenance Features

The Hercules DJ Console Mk4 is a versatile DJ controller designed to facilitate mixing and recording, particularly for users of Virtual DJ software. It offers various modes for handling microphone input, allowing for both live performance interaction and recording.

Function Description

The primary function of the DJ Console Mk4 is to provide a physical interface for DJing, enabling users to mix music, control effects, and manage audio inputs. A key feature is its ability to integrate microphone input into the mix, either for live commentary or for recording. The device supports different operational modes for the microphone, each with specific characteristics regarding signal routing and recording capabilities.

Usage Features

Microphone Input Modes:

• Talk Over Mode: This mode is activated by pressing the "Mic On/Off" button on the console. When enabled, the microphone signal is automatically sent to Output 1-2 of the Mk4, mixed with the main audio output. This is particularly useful for DJs who wish to speak to their audience over the music. In this mode, the music's volume is automatically reduced based on a user-selectable attenuation level, allowing the microphone signal to be heard more clearly. However, it's important to note that in Talk Over mode, the microphone input cannot be recorded by the software because the software does not receive the microphone signal directly. The console handles the mixing internally.

• Hardware Mix Mode: Accessible via the "Advanced" tab in the control panel, this mode functions similarly to Talk Over but without the automatic volume attenuation of the music. The microphone signal is mixed with the main output at a consistent level. Like Talk Over mode, the microphone input in Hardware Mix mode is not sent to the software for recording. This mode can also be applied to the Line In 1-2 input, offering flexibility for other external audio sources.

• External Source Mode (for Recording): To record the microphone input within Virtual DJ or other applications, the microphone must be configured as an "External Source." This setup is analogous to connecting a CD player or turntable.

  1. Connection: Connect the microphone to the DJ Console Mk4's dedicated microphone input.
  2. Software Launch: Launch Virtual DJ.
  3. Control Panel Configuration: Open the DJ Console Mk4 control panel and set the "Microphone" as the sound source for input 1-2. This step is crucial and must be performed after Virtual DJ is launched, as the software typically defaults to "Line-In" for channel 1-2 upon startup.
  4. Music Setup: Load the desired music track onto Deck B (right) in Virtual DJ and position the cross-fader centrally between Deck A and Deck B.
  5. Activate External Source: Push the "Source 1" button on the DJ Console Mk4 to turn on the external source. At this point, you should hear your voice mixed with the music.
  6. Level Adjustment: Adjust the microphone level using the "Mic Volume" knob on the console. If further adjustment is needed, the "Gain" knob within Virtual DJ can also be used.
  7. Equalization: The microphone's equalization can be fine-tuned using the "Bass," "Medium," and "Treble" controls available for the deck in Virtual DJ.
  8. Recording Process: Once the audio configuration is satisfactory, navigate to the "RECORD" tab in the Virtual DJ interface and click "Start recording." You will be prompted to name the file before saving and commencing the recording. This allows for simultaneous recording of your voice from the microphone and the music playing on Deck B. To stop recording, simply click the "Start recording" button again.
  9. Deactivating External Source: When you wish to use Deck A for playing MP3s, switch off the external source by ensuring the "Source 1" button LED is off.

Alternative Loudness for Talk-Over: If the microphone output volume is too low when using the DJ Console Mk4 in its default Talk-Over mode, the External Source setup (steps 3 to 6 above) can be used as an alternative. While this method bypasses the automatic talk-over functionality, it provides additional software gain, resulting in a louder microphone output.

General Operation:

The console features standard DJ controls, including a cross-fader, individual deck controls, and potentially other buttons for effects, loops, and cue points, though these are not detailed in the provided text. The integration with Virtual DJ allows for comprehensive control over the software's functionalities.

Maintenance Features

The provided text does not explicitly detail any maintenance features. However, as an electronic device, general maintenance practices would apply, such as keeping it clean, protecting it from spills, and ensuring proper storage. The focus of the manual is on operational setup and usage rather than physical maintenance.

In summary, the Hercules DJ Console Mk4 is a robust controller designed for DJs who need flexible microphone integration for both live performance and recording within a software environment like Virtual DJ. Its various microphone modes cater to different user needs, with the External Source mode being crucial for capturing microphone audio in recordings.

Hercules Mk4 Specifications