VirtualDJ

Popular programs in Mixers

What is VirtualDJ

Virtual DJ is a professional grade digital DJ program that can be installed on your personal computer. It enables you to mix, blend and sample your own digital music. Used by world-renowned DJs, this program is meant to put full mixing power into your hands. It is used best with DJ mixing midi-devices to allow for greater control. However, this is far from required, as the interface allows for easy point-and-click maneuvering of the surface controls.

Layout

The layout is top-notch and resembles that of the standard mixing devices that are used by all DJs. Multiple channels allow the DJ to mix up to four decks simultaneously to blend each track with precision and harmony. The wave forms are clearly readable and allow the DJ to cue the mix as needed with each rise and drop in the wave, which represents the "groove" of a record. There also are various ways to customize Virtual DJ. This includes what components are displayed all the way to the ability to change the aesthetics of the layout by changing the complete look using various skins.

Usability

Digital mixing software will always cause controversy among purists and new DJs alike. It can be argued that mixing using such software is considered to be "cheating". It is said that the usability of such programs enable those without any skill to perform at similar levels as their professional counterparts. One thing is certain, though - Virtual DJ is very easy to use. Track placement is quickly achieved by using drag-and-drop methods. However, processing tracks can be rather slow as the program scans the file to check its BPM, time and key. That information is then placed on the screen allowing the DJ to mix accordingly. Features like BPM measures and auto-sync allow the DJ to mix at a push of a button.

Features

Virtual DJ comes pre-loaded with a handful of effects to enhance your mix. You can also load up pre-set third-party VST effects that customize your experience even more. You can choose to play in "Scratch" mode that affects the sensitivity of the control wheels in order to simulate the scratching of a record. Virtual DJ is also quite versatile and allows for the use of MIDI controllers. Assigning the controls is very easy in comparison to similar programs. After assigning the controls, you can save the settings for reference and easier set-up.

Karaoke and Video

Unlike other DJ software programs, Virtual DJ allows support for karaoke files and video mixing. This is achieved without the use of extra equipment. Mixing video and karaoke is done using only the computer with multiple video outlets and works fluidly with your computer's video card.

Overall Summary

Virtual DJ is a great free program that is ready to play right "out-of-the-box". Purchasing a license will unlock a multitude of other features of this already great program. The only significant downside is that it tends to tax your computer's resources and is prone to occasional glitching.

Pros

• Great layout
• Customizable
• MIDI controllable

Cons

• Latency glitches
• Heavy resource use
• Long track loading