EKS Otus+ Safe Pack

For a DJ setup with two virtual decks, the EKS Otus+ Safe Pack combines a MIDI controller with an integrated audio interface and a matching carry bag. The 7.5-inch jog wheel provides position and speed feedback via touch and LEDs; its design is intended for placement on or in place of a conventional DJ turntable. Controller and carry bag in one set make it easier to switch between setup and transport.

The controls are divided between two control surfaces, which you switch between to operate both decks with one device. The jog wheel is touch-sensitive; other controls include four jog dial knobs with switches, ten freely assignable rotary knobs, 17 push buttons and six touch-sensitive buttons. All controls are LED-backlit. Two switchable control surfaces support control of both virtual decks.

An integrated touchpad can be assigned as an X/Y surface for effects or for mouse control. The 80 mm-long, touch-sensitive pitch fader has an LED position indicator. You can assign the knobs and buttons using the MIDI Learn functions in compatible software; the controller can be used with software that supports MIDI Learn. Freely assignable controls let you adapt the controls to your software.

The integrated 24-bit audio interface provides two stereo outputs via four RCA sockets and two S/PDIF outputs. A 6.3 mm headphone output is available for monitoring. You can use the outputs to connect to a mixer or sound system; the controller can also be operated as a MIDI controller without using the internal audio interface. Two stereo outputs for separate decks give you suitable routing options for a DJ setup.

The included bag, designed by UDG, is water-repellent and made for the Otus. A padded main compartment holds the controller; a separate compartment fits laptops from 13 to 17 inches, as well as cables and a power supply. Additional storage compartments at the front provide space for items such as headphones, an external hard drive and small accessories. A detachable accessory pouch and shoulder straps are also included; the bag can be carried as a backpack or over the shoulder and is suitable as carry-on luggage. Padded controller compartment with laptop compartment keeps essential DJ equipment and accessories together for transport.

The controller connects via USB 1.1 or USB 2.0 and is powered via USB at 450 mA. Alternatively, an optional external power supply rated at 5 V and 2,000 mA is supported; the connector has positive polarity on the inside. ASIO, Core Audio and Windows or OS X are specified for audio and MIDI communication. With its aluminium frame, direct audio outputs and matching carry bag, this set is suited to DJs who use a compact controller with its own audio interface and transport it regularly. USB operation with optional power supply offers two power options.