Pioneer has outlined three upcoming semi-portable audio players in its new Steez lineup. The STZ-D10S-L Solo, STZ-D10T-G Duo and STZ-D10Z-R Crew are unique in that they offer users the ability to change the tempo of the music, set cue points, battle with friends and build playlists. It comes through Pioneer’s Mixtrax software and offers tricks that are usually found on DJ turntables and mixers.
While the tempo is changed, the players keep the song pitch, again much like what DJs uses. The eight-beat skip helps with choreography, skipping forward or backward by up to eight counts. A Dance Cue feature lets listeners set a specific start point in a song rather than at the very beginning of a song, while Dance Boost feature can be set to make specific instruments stand out when training.
Those who want hands-off music can invoke an Auto DJ mode that will play music of the same genre, beats per minute, artist, and other criteria. An Auto Battle mode creates a battle sequence for dance-offs and includes a countdown timer on the LCD screen along with voice and tone prompts to alert dancers when 10 seconds of a track are left.
All Steez systems get a credit-card sized wireless remote.
The three share 4GB of built-in memory, with the Solo and Duo getting two 2.5W speakers, while the Crew has a pair of 10W speakers along with a 20W subwoofer. The Solo will cost $300, the Duo $350 and the Crew $500. All ship in November.
Steez Crew
Steez Duo
Steez Solo
