ATOMIX VIRTUAL DJ Owner Manual
ATOMIX Virtual DJ is a revolutionary software that allows you to mix audio and video tracks right from your computer. It offers a comprehensive DJ interface with features like two virtual decks, extensive browsing functions, a mixer with EQ, gain, and crossfader, audio and video effects processors, a sampler for recording and playing back audio clips, and a looping engine. VirtualDJ simplifies DJing with automatic beat matching, a computer beat grid for visual mixing, and dynamic hot cue points. Enjoy creative control over your mixes with this powerful software!
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Copyright © 2007
Revision 4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
INTRODUCTION TO DJING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
INSTALLATION / UPGRADE NOTES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
INTERFACES - ZONES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
BROWSER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FILE SYSTEM / FOLDER STRUCTURE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FILE / SEARCH RESULTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ID3TAG SUPPORT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
DATABASE MANAGEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GLOBAL SEARCH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SEARCHING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TRACK OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PLAYLIST & AUTOMIX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SIDELIST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FILE SYSTEM / FOLDER STRUCTURE ORGANIZATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FAVORITE FOLDERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VIRTUAL FOLDERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FILTER FOLDERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . . . . .
DECK CONTROLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
INTERNAL MIXER CONTROLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TOOLBAR CONTROLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RHYTHM WINDOW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MANUAL BPM CORRECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CONFIGURATION SETTINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SOUND SETUP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PERFORMANCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SKINS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS AND MACROS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . .
NETWORK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
REMOTE CONTROL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CODECS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VIDEO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
INFO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SAMPLER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
EFFECTS (AUDIO, VIDEO, VIDEO TRANSITIONS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
KARAOKE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
BROADCASTING AND RECORDING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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INTRODUCTION
Welcome to VirtualDJ!
VirtualDJ is revolutionary software which allows audio and video mixing right from a computer.
We designed VirtualDJ to be simple and intuitive to use but do not be fooled — there are many advanced features to explore and customize.
VirtualDJ features everything you need for imaginative performance and mixing:
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Two virtual decks for loading audio and video tracks, short clips and karaoke
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Extensive functions utilizing ID3Tag and custom information fields
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Comprehensive mixer with all the features that you would expect from a traditional mixer (EQ, gain, crossfader)
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Audio and video effects processors
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Sampler for recording and playing back audio clips on the fly
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ClipBank for playing back video clips on the fly
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Looping engine
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Real-time recording of your mixes
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Real-time webcasting of your sessions
Additionally, VirtualDJ includes many innovative features to help you spend less time with the tedious, time-consuming aspects of DJing and mixing:
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Automatic beat matching for quick mixing
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Computer Beat Grid for easy visual mixing
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Dynamic Hot Cue points
We developed VirtualDJ to be the most complete and extensive DJ software on the market today. We have provided an exhaustive set of features for you to take advantage of and create great mixes. Whether you are a beginner or a professional DJ, you will find working inside
VirtualDJ to be fun, intuitive and highly efficient.
If you are new to DJing, we recommend that you read the “Introduction to DJing” section of this manual — it contains basic information on the art of DJing that you might find useful before diving into the software.
We highly recommend reading this manual in its entirety once you begin using VirtualDJ — it will help you learn and understand all of its many features so you can get the most out of your
VirtualDJ.
We sincerely hope that you enjoy this great product!
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INTRODUCTION TO DJING
The work of a disc jockey can be divided into three tasks:
1. Choosing the music (programming)
2. Mixing the music
3. Modifying the music (remixing)
The first task consists of choosing the appropriate music, which obviously depends on the type of evening and your style. Generally a good rule of thumb is to avoid playing all the hits” from the very start of the evening and to keep some in reserve to generate new interest when the audience starts to become tired.
VirtualDJ allows instant access to all your titles, playlists, and a list of suggestions. It’s ultimately up to you to decide what makes your audience move. The software cannot replace your talent.
The second task consists of “mixing” the tracks. DJs are accustomed to connecting their tracks in a fluid way by keeping a constant flow of music in order to give the impression that the music is seamless. This mostly applies only to a certain category of music, where the rhythm is very pronounced, such as house, hip hop, or r&b.
Traditionally, the DJ mixes a track in two phases:
Initially, a DJ will modify the speed of the track he wants to mix in, in order to equal the speed of the current track. This stage is necessary to prevent the songs from clashing and give synchronized beats. The speed of the music is measured in BPM (Beats per Minute) — This measures the number of beats over one minute in time. A song with 160 BPM is very fast, whereas a song with 60 BPM is very slow.
The traditional DJ uses the “pitch” adjustment on the turntables to accelerate or slow down the number of revolutions of a record and thus changing its BPM. In VirtualDJ, the BPM is calculated automatically as soon as you load a track to either player and the pitch can be adjusted automatically to match that of the song already playing. Once BPM on both songs are the same, it’s necessary to sync or line up the beats so the two tracks sound as one.
Traditionally, the DJ will put their headphones on only one ear and listen to the track that they want to introduce (known as cueing). With the other ear, the DJ listens to the mix that the public hears. The DJ will then speed up or slow down the incoming track with their hand and using the pitch control, in order to synchronize the beats. In VirtualDJ, the rhythm window indicates the position of the beats of each song, allowing you to easily see whether the songs are matched and synced. Then, when the two tracks are beat-matched and synced, the DJ will begin using the crossfader, volume faders and equalizer to bring the new track into the mix.
This is called a transition.
The third task of a DJ is to modify the music with various effects or by mixing various tracks or samples, in order to create an impression of a “remix” and to give a more personal and artistic feel to a mix.
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The effects traditionally used are scratch, loops, and samples:
A scratch consists of creating an entirely new sound by playing a small portion of music repeatedly. This is achieved by moving that same portion of music back and forth at different velocities while using the crossfader to sharply cut the sound in and out of the mix.
A loop consists of isolating a passage from a title and playing it repeatedly in a looping fashion.
As the loop ends it will fluidly go back to the beginning and play again, prolonging the duration of the passage.
A sample consists of a recorded passage which can be played at key moments in the mix to build up interest or anticipate a track that is being mixed in.
There are many creative ways that scratches, samples and loops can be used and VirtualDJ provides some great, easy-to-use tools for you to utilize all these techniques in your mix. By simplifying and streamlining the technical aspects of DJing, VirtualDJ allows you to focus on the most important part of the DJ experience — your imagination!
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VirtualDJ installs files into the following locations:
Default application path –
C:\Program Files\VirtualDJ\
All Application Configuration, Plug-in, Skins, Database, and Support Files are stored in –
Windows XP: C:\Documents and Settings\ username \My Documents
Windows VISTA: C:\_UserName\Documents\VirtualDJ
*For Power Users who have changed the location of their My Documents from the default Microsoft setting your new/copied files are stored there in the VirtualDJ folder. To check, right-click on the My
Document icon and look at the property setting for Target.
If upgrading VirtualDJ, the default application path stays the same and the application configuration, plug-in, skins, database files, and support files are copied to appropriate location listed above.
Also, if possible; you should have your COMPLETE gig ready computer setup connected before launching version 5 for the first time, so VirtualDJ can build the entire database based on the database from version 4.x.
The Core VirtualDJ Database is titled - VirtualDJ Database v5.xml
The VirtualDJ Database system segments the database to each drive attached to the system.
Each additional database file will be found on the ROOT of that drive and is titled – VirtualDJ
Local Database.xml
Upgrade Note: Because of the ‘split’ database files and depending on the size of the previous database XML, the FIRST LAUNCH of VirtualDJ after upgrading may act like it has stopped at the applications splash screen. Please be patient and look for activity on the hard drive(s).
VirtualDJ is reading the prior version database and splitting the various entries across the respective hard drives of the system.
What is stored in the database files?
¾
Path to the file
¾ Analyzed data about the tracks
¾ ID3Tag Display Information
¾
Automix Information
The ‘split’ database files provide users of external hard drives the ability to COLD or HOT
SWAP drives between single and/or multiple systems. This allows for multiple DJs of a club or venue to utilize 1 VirtualDJ installation and not have different logins in order to maintain separate databases unique to each DJ. The DJ can just walk in, plug in the external device and begin playing.
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INTERFACE - ZONES
Before beginning to use VirtualDJ, familiarize yourself with the controls and “zones” of the software. Upon opening the application, an interface menu is displayed. Interfaces called
“skins” feature different configurations, layouts and functionalities of the software. Let’s begin by selecting “Internal mixer interface” to become familiar with the most important features of the software. To change to a different skin while the software is running, click on the “Config”
1 menu and select the “Skins” tab.
1. BROWSER I SAMPLER / EFFECTS I RECORD
Browse your music folders, Create, edit and save your playlists
Adjust effects video, and audio, Record and save mixes
2. DECK I CONTROLS
Drag and drop music from the browser to this virtual deck.
Track title, beats per minute display, counters, Transport Control
3. DECK 2 CONTROLS
Drag and drop music from the browser to this virtual deck.
Track title, beats per minute display, counters, Transport Control
4. MIXER ZONE
Crossfader, Gain, Volume PFL Controls
5. RHYTHM WINDOW
This window tracks the waveform of each song loaded or playing on a deck. This area also features a Computer Beat Grid (CBG) used for visual mixing and beat-matching.
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Traditionally the “Config” menu option is found in the upper right corner of the skin next to the Minimize, Maximize, and Close application buttons.
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BROWSER
The Browser Zone is where to navigate and organize files stored on a local, external, or network hard disk. The browser contains the compatible file types (i.e. whose extensions are associated with the decoders in VirtualDJ) to access the compatible extensions list. Click the
“Config” menu then choose the “Codecs” tab. See the “Codecs” section of the manual for further details.
The Browser zone is divided into 4 key panels.
1. File System / Folder Structure
2. File / Search Results
3. Automix Playlist
4. Sidelist
File System / Folder Structure Panel (1)
VirtualDJ provides several application managed organizational groupings and a few third-party interfaces by default. Also provided is the ability to create additional navigation aid capabilities. To better understand the managed groups and interfaces click the “Config” button and view the “Browser” tab.
The “Browser” tab allows the selection of the various groupings that can be viewed. Each item ‘checked’ will have an associate entry on the File System /
Folder Structure panel (1).
Volumes – shows the File System navigation option from the My
Computer structure
Desktop – shows the File System navigation option from the Desktop structure
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N apster – shows the integrated Napster search. Using this feature requires a Napster login.
Login information can be provided by a right-click on the Napster Globe in the “Browser” panel interface and choosing “Login…”
G enres – provides a generated tree of Genre types based on the imported ID3Tag Genre field. By selecting on the various listed genres the file browser panel (2) only shows those entries that match the tag.
*POWER USERS – typically only one genre is stored in the ID3Tag; however, since VirtualDJ imports and stores this data in it’s own database multiple genres can be assigned to a single file by separating each genre with a semi-colon ‘;’ . This action is performed in the File Info dialog the
Genre field for the file.
H istory – provides access to data stored about each session use of VirtualDJ. The data is stored as .m3u playlist files and it is stored in the My Documents -> VirtualDJ\Tracklisting folder. History data is saved on the fly in order to provide running history of played tracks for each 24hr timeframe of use.
*POWER USERS – by default VirtualDJ will separate the history playlists at 9AM this is based on a registry entry titled TrackCutHour – change this value to have your history playlists split at a different time. Time is based on a 24-hour clock, so 9PM would be 21. iT unes – displays iTunes playlists and use the information in the playlist for accessing files. If the files don’t exist per the playlists path, an ‘Error’ show up in the deck’s display when attempting to load the track.
C rates – allows access to the crates structure created and utilized by the
Serato ScratchLive application.
P laylists – show or hide the contents of the My Documents -> VirtualDJ\Playlist folder. This is where an Automix playlist is saved by default.
F avorites – show or hide any created folder favorites, created from a right-click on a folder in the Desktop navigation structure and selecting “Set as favorite” from the menu or by using the icon on the panel’s right divider bar.
VirtualFolders – show or hide any created VirtualFolders created from clicking on the icon found on the right divider bar
FilterFolders – show or hide any created FilterFolders created from clicking on the icon found on the right divider bar
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File / Search Results Panel (2)
VirtualDJ provides several elements of information about each track. The information is a combination of ID3 Tag and VirtualDJ defined data fields. By default the title of the song and artist are listed for each file along with columns for beats per minute (BPM) and duration
(Length) with additional columns, explained further in the manual (page 13). The width size for each column can be modified individually and by clicking on a column the contents are sorted.
For example, clicking on the artist column sorts the browser by artist initially in ascending order. Click again for descending.
The tracks title and artist are automatically filled in, if the file is named according to two standard conventions, i.e. (artist) title.ext OR artist - title.ext OR the “Tags” option is set to
“Enabled” in the “Config”, “Browser” tab, Infos Gathering section. See the “ID3Tag Support” section of the manual for further details.
The BPM and length information are calculated automatically when a track is loaded to either deck. All track information is then stored inside the respective drive database files for later recall. And all data is stored and saved at time of discovery or data entry immediately to the database(s).
Icon key
This title is unknown and was never played or scanned by VirtualDJ.
This title is known and has been scanned by VirtualDJ.
This title was played during this session.
Indicates a video file.
Indicates a karaoke file.
Indicates that the BPM difference between the analyzed song and current playing song is too great. This is a track that you might wish to avoid playing next.
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ID3 TAG SUPPORT
ID3Tag support is not the same support that other applications implement. VirtualDJ has always provided the fasts information access about stored tracks in the database. Adding direct ID3Tag access to every file would have considerably SLOWED VirtualDJ’s ability for browsing and search as experienced in other applications.
VirtualDJ stores identified ID3Tag fields as part of its own database and the stored data can be updated at anytime. Because tag data is not direct access any of the information can be changed using the File Info dialog and it will not affect the core ID3Tag info of the file. Also, since video type files don’t have ID3Tags, VirtualDJ is able to make these fields available for storing information about the video.
Retrieving ID3Tag Data
This can be accomplished in several methods at different points in time. The first and what will be the most common is using the Configuration Browser tab’s Infos Gathering options.
TAGS
Enabled – ID3Tags supporting fields
(BPM, Album, Genre, etc.) are read immediately on track discovery.
Disabled – ID3Tags are not read and the addition of tag information to the database must be done using the various menu options accessible via the folder/file pop-up menus
ARTIST/TITLE
Enabled – If the ID3Tag does not have data for the Title/Artist fields then the filename is parsed and used for those fields.
Disabled – traditional filename parsing of the Artist – Title.ext filename
COMMENTS
Enabled – Read the ID3Tag Comment field on track discovery
Disabled – Never Read the ID3Tag Comment field
COVERS
Local Search Only – for the CoverFlow viewer files already locally stored will be used
(to include ID3Tag embedded)
Download Exact Match – if no cover found locally, download a cover that only matches based on the song’s information
Download No Matter What – if no cover found locally, download anything that closely matches using the song’s information
Don’t Search – don’t ever look for covers if no cover exists
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Retrieving ID3Tag Data (cont’d)
Next possible way of retrieving ID3Tag information is by right clicking on a file in the browser and selecting File Info. The below dialog displays the database stored information along with the ID3Tag information that is retrievable.
Under each field with a button will have the read ID3Tag info next to it that can be read from the tag. Click on the button to copy that data into the VirtualDJ data field. This data will be stored and used by the VirtualDJ database. The next to the FileName field is used to parse the file name into the Artist and Title.
Another method of retrieving ID3Tag info is through the browser directly with multiple files selected.
The options from File Infos are –
Title tag
Title filename
Reload
Erase
Download
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Displaying VirtualDJ data fields (ID3Tag) Columns
In the file browser (2) or playlist panels (3) right clicking on any column and choose from the pop-up list any or all of the available data fields now stored in the VirtualDJ database.
Changing the order of the columns is very easy by selecting the Order… option from the bottom of the list.
Then in the presented dialog choose the order by highlighting the field and using the up and down arrows.
Also add or remove fields from the display by selecting the check box for the field.
You can also select what you want displayed in the browser by clicking on the second bull’s eye circle to the right of the search box and chose from the Show Covers,
Show Music, Show Videos, and
Show Karaoke options.
Here are some screen shots of the fields being displayed in the browser -
[Typical ID3Tags + Key field]
[Additional VirtualDJ Fields]
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Additional VirtualDJ Data Fields
The VirtualDJ database now stores additional data about each track for additional search features and the NEW Filter folders.
Key – stores the key value of a song for use doing Harmonic Mixing.
** VirtualDJ does not analyze and populate this field. Manual entry using the File Info.
Play Count – stores the running play count of the track
First Seen – stores the date of when the track was first added to the database
First Play – stores the date of when track was first ever played
Last Play – stores the date of when the track was last played
Drive, Filepath, Filename, Filetype – stores the current known Drive, Filepath, Filename, and
Filetype for the track
DATABASE MANAGEMENT
The database management system comes with additional tools as part of the VirtualDJ
Configuration Browser tab.
¾
Save ‘On the Fly’ during each session use
¾ Automatic check of database integrity at launch
¾ Manually check the database integrity
¾
Fix database error(s)
¾ Clean out database entries for missing/moved files
VirtualDJ now saves the database immediately when additions or updates are required.
VirtualDJ also validates the integrity of all database files at the launch of the application. If a problem is detected a message box will be displayed identifying which database has the problem and what to do to correct the problem.
To correct the problem - here are the steps:
1. Open the configuration dialog
2. Go to the Browser tab
3. Select the Drive from the drop-down
4. Click the ‘ FIX ’ button
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The other options for managing the databases are -
CHECK – this runs a validation of the database to ensure that all database file references are still valid and existing stored files on that drive. The process simply re-labels the FilePath entry for the file if it can not be found. Data about that file is not lost.
CLEAN – this process will REMOVE any database information about files that are no longer valid. This is necessary for cleaning up the Global Search capabilities.
GLOBAL SEARCH
VirtualDJ provides an intuitive on the fly search capability. Adding files to the global search can be done two (2) ways.
First is by setting the ‘Search Database’ property in the Configuration Browser tab to ‘Add automatically’. This will add all files when browsing the folder structures to the search.
The other option is ‘Add manually’. This requires using the ‘Add to Search DB’ option to be selected when right clicking on a file or folder in the main browser interface.
In either scenario, once added to the Global Search; the ability to find the file is always available when doing a search. The difference is in the results display of the search determines if it is in the currently selected folder or elsewhere in the system.
SEARCHING
The search field is located at the top of the browser panel. To search the files listed in the database, left click on the search field then type your search text.
Searching is instant and it is generally not necessary to type the text in its entirety — a few letters are enough to reduce the list to the single title.
If you want to limit the search results to specific types of file, click on the second bull’s eye circle to the right of the search box and chose from the Show Music, Show Videos, and Show Karaoke options.
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In the following example, a search on ‘ba’ is entered into the search box. The center file browser panel displays the results of the search. The file(s) listed above the dividing line represent the file(s) found in the folder that is currently highlighted in the left folder browser panel. All other files below the dividing line are files that exist elsewhere in the database.
What can be searched?
Searching in VirtualDJ is versatile and variable. What is meant by that? Just to the right of the search box there is a “search fields” selection button. Click on the bull’s eye circle and a list of
10 searchable fields is presented.
Depending on what fields are selected the search results will very.
To ensure maximum results for all searches, select all the fields and the maximum search capabilities are available all the time.
To browse the entire database contents just enter an asterisk ( * ) as the search string and now the entire database is displayed.
VirtualDJ also provides expanded search features for more creative searching. One way of being more creative is when searching on
BPM. Enter 110-120 and if the BPM column is selected the results displayed will be tracks in the range of 110 to 120 BPM.
If this type of creative search is something necessary on a routine basis then VirtualDJ has a FilterFolder feature that can be used.
See the “Filter Folders” section of the manual for further details.
TRACK OPTIONS
Right clicking on a track displays many options: File Operations like - copy, move, and delete files (a warning is displayed on deleting a file), File Info for modifying data field content, BPM analyze track options, add and removing songs from the search database. Along with several other options that are presented and explained throughout this manual.
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PLAYLIST & AUTOMIX
Automix features work from one deck. By default it is Deck 1; however, prior to starting the
Automix if Deck 2 is selected as the active deck then Deck 2 is used. By utilizing 1 deck this frees the opposite deck for staging the first song to be used once you decide to stop the
Automix process.
In addition to drag and drop, playlists can be created. Playlists are groups of tracks prearranged in a desired order of play. To Access the playlist, move your mouse or drag songs over the “Playlist” panel (3) on the right side of the browser. The window automatically expands to show the working area and current list if populated.
Playlist Controls
Activate / Deactivate the Automix mode
Access the Playlist management menu
Lock the Playlist panel to a set width and block the auto-shut of the panel. You can also lock it and reduce its size to zero if you do not wish for it open automatically.
Playlist Setup
Tracks to be auto-mixed can be placed into the Playlist panel from the File Browser panel (2) by using a drag and drop method. Also, predefined playlists can be used and auto loaded.
In the Configuration -> Options tab there is an option for “AutoLoad Playlists”. The available values are Disabled, Smart, and Always.
Disabled – a contents of the play list are displayed in the center File Browser panel only
Always – when a play list is selected in the browser the contents are immediately loaded to the playlist
Smart – doesn't change the playlist when you click on a playlist folder, if the actual playlist has been manually edited
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Playlist & Automix Management
Using the Playlist management menu by clicking on the icon choose from the options how the automix functions and tracks are managed in the playlist.
Automix Types – 5 modes
SMART – VirtualDJ attempts to determine the optimal mix point based on the outro of the current track and intro of the upcoming track – mix time varies from ~4 to ~8 secs depending on the tracks
FADE (remove intro/outro) – attempts to remove the dead air intro or outro segments and creates a crossfade point based on the settings of the Automix Length
FADE (remove silence) – keeps the entire track from beginning to end while removing any ‘dead air’ or ‘silence’ that may be present in the track and creates a crossfade point based on the settings of the Automix Length
FADE (remove nothing) – keeps the entire track from beginning to end and creates a crossfade point based on the settings of the Automix Length
NONE (back-to-back) – this is a simple CUT mix that plays the files from complete from start to finish including any air gaps at the beginning or end
Automix Length
Length used for th e Automix FADE types. Lengths are 0 seconds
(C UT), or 1, 2, 4, 8, or 16 seconds fades using the FULL crossfade.
Repeat
Two diffe rent ‘Repeat’ options are available. When clicking on the o ptions button (‘+’) the ‘Repeat’ option lets you repeat the whole Automix Playlist. Once all tracks have been played, the Automix will start over again with the first track in the list.
Prior to or during the Automix, right click on a song and s elect ‘Repeat’ to have that song c ontinuously repeat until the ‘Repeat’ is deselected.
Clear – clears the entire playlist of all tracks
S huffle – shuffles the contents of the playlist for play
Remove played – removes any already play ed tracks from the playlist
Remove duplicates – a removes any possible duplica tes from the playlist
Save – provides function to save the playlist for future use
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Sequential Order Play Display
The playlist navigation during automix play of what is playing and what is next is sequential from top to bottom (like most media players). The currently playing track is always highlighted.
With the repeat option on for the entire playlist the navigation will return to the top after the last track is played in the list.
Add, Move or Remove Track
Reordering tracks by adding more, moving their order, or removing can be done at any time.
To include adding a new track as next, moving a track into the next play, or removing the next track with the following track now becoming the new next track.
Jump and MIX NOW
While in the Automix ACTIVE mode, double-click on any track in the Playlist and VirtualDJ will use the assigned crossfade automix settings and mix that track immediately. Also the playlist will pickup from that point forward. It does not return to the left order location.
Keyboard Shortcut Actions for use with Playlists
“Put in Sidelist / Get from Sidelist” – a keyboard shortcut action “switch_sidelist_playlist” provides the function for moving track lists between the two panels.
“Make Virtual Folder” – a keyboard shortcut action “vfolder_fromplaylist” provides the function for creating a VirtualFolder from the current playlist contents.
EDITING AUTOMIX MIX POINTS
To edit a tracks Automix mix points, load a track to a deck, then select the respective BPM button for that deck. In the ‘Edit
BPM’ dialog select the ‘Edit Automix’ tab.
Then select which kind of mix point to edit (Mix Fade, Mix Cut, Mix
Tempo). Move the track to the position to use as the entry point, and click on the button "Set Entry", then bring it to the position of exit point, then click "Set Exit".
Repeat for Mix Cut and Mix Tempo if wanting to set those entry points. To give VirtualDJ the option of using the Mix Cut and Mix
Tempo mix points place a check in the ‘Allow’ box for each mix type.
The Mix Tempo points are used in the SMART automix mode, where VirtualDJ will only beatmix if the ‘Allow’ for Mix Tempo is checked on both songs (a song with Mix Tempo allowed has a star next to its bpm). If not, the SMART
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automix will then check if both ‘Al low’ for Mix Cut are checked. If yes it will do a cut mix (using th e cut entry/exit points), otherwise the SMART automix mode will do a standard fade using the Mix Fade entry/exit points.
In all other automix modes only the Mix Fade entry/exit points are used.
SIDELIST
VirtualDJ incorporates it’s own version of a waitlist called the Sidelist. The Sidelist panel (4) can be used to hold tracks that the DJ knows they will play sometime during their session. It also provides a location for VirtualDJ to moved tracks that were loaded but never played b ecause the DJ loaded a new track to the deck. The Sidelist can also be use to stage and construct Playlists and VirtualFolders by drag-and-drop of tracks to the panel.
AutoSave Unplayed
When the option “AutoSave Unplayed” is e nabled in the Configurat ion -> Options tab, all track s a dded to a deck but then never played are added to the SideList when a track replaces it on a deck.
Keyboard Shortcuts load_fromsidelist and free_sidelist provide easy access to tracks for loading to a deck or c learing the entire list, respectively.
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FILE SYSTEM / FOLDER STRUCTURE ORGANIZATION
In order to simplify browsing and provide better and robust file management capability,
V irtualDJ provides three (3) methods for the user to organize the database.
On the left panel’s border are three (3) folder options
Create Favorite Folder (monitored folder)
– pick a folder from the drive to always display in the browser
Create Virtual Folder (unmonitored folders)
– create a folder for manually populating with specific files
Create Filter Folder (monitored folder)
– create a folder based on a filter string that is run every time the folder is selected
Right clicking on any of these folders provides access to various operations. For Favorite folders options include Add or Remove contents of favorite to Search DB, and BPM Analyze options. Filter folders contain an option for accessing the filter dialog for changing the filter string. Virtual folders have a Rename option. All folders have options for moving the order of the folders up and down in the tree and for removing or deleting the folder.
A DJ may want to define a collection of directories which are most frequently used – for example, “Hits of 2006” or “My Music.” The best solution is using the Favorite Folders. Think of Favorite Folders as Shortcuts to a folder in the operating system.
FAVORITE FOLDERS
To setup a Favorite F older, browse the Desktop navigation item from the File System/Folder
Structure panel to the desired folder location. Click and highlight the desired folder, then click the yellow favorite folder icon .
The directory selected will be added to the end of the list, on the same level as the “Desktop” fo lder. To remove a favorite folder reference, select it and click the icon again.
The same actions can be taken by right-clicking on the d esired folder and choosing “Set as favorite” from the menu. And, to remove a favorite folder simply right -click on the favorite and choose “Remove from favorite”.
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VIRTUAL FOLDERS
V irtual folders also aid in quick access to tracks. A virtual folder holds a collection of shortcuts to tracks.
C reate a virtual folder by clicking on the red title.
VirtualFolder icon and giving the new folder a
Now browse the database or run various searches looking for tracks that are being gr ouped together. Drag and drop the tracks into the new VirtualFolder and ne xt time you want to play th ese tracks refer to the virtual folder.
Please note that dragging tracks into a virtual folder will not physi cally move the files into that fo lder — it will only create a shortcut to where the files are located.
To remove a virtual folder, right-click on it and select “remove.”
FILTER FOLDERS
A highly dynamic and creative way to organize a collection of tracks is to apply conditions that automatically filter (search) the database for tracks that match the criteria outlined. VirtualDJ c alls these types of folder FilterFolders.
Create a Filter Folder
C lick on the blue FilterFolder icon and a Filter creation dialog is displayed.
G ive the NEW filter folder a name. For example - Top 100 Played
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N nter the Filter to e entire filter statement would look like ‘ top 100 nbplay ’. What VirtualDJ will do each
Elements - "title", "author", "artist", "album", "genre", "year", "bpm"
O perators – "==", "="
K eywords – “top”, “[inverted]”
FILTER isscanned=0 or isscanned= 1 top 100 nbplay top 100 firstseen top 100 lastplay bpm>120 and bpm<130 year>=1980 and year<1990 days since lastplay<7 days since lastplay<31 days since lastplay<365 lastplay=0 isscanned=0 type=video type=audio type=karaoke hascover=1 hascover=0 top 20 nbplay and hascover=1 and
(type=video or type=karaoke) filepath start with "c:\mp3\80s" or filepath start with "d:\music\80s" extension is "mp3" and title doesn't contain
"madona"
Expected Result
Local Database
top 100 list
recently added
recently played
bpm range from 120 to 130
80s music
songs played last week
songs played last month
songs played last year
never played songs
files not scanned
video group
audio group
karaoke group
has cover picture
doesn't have cover picture
Top 20 most played that have a cover and are Video or Karaoke files
Show all 80s files stored on two separate drives in a folder titled 80s
Any mp3 file that does not contain
“madona” in the title
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DECK CONTROLS
There are two virtual “decks” on the screen. Drag and drop files into each of the decks to load music tracks or video clips.
The two decks are equipped with the following controls and displays:
1. Title of track curr ently loaded
2. Wavefo rm display for currently - This view shows the visua l w aveform of the entire track, allo ws for viewing the remaining duration of the a ud io, as well as what has already be en played. When highlighted in blue or red (U sing the default skins), that area of the w aveform indicates what has been played and t he current position of the audio.
The remai ning grey area of the wavefo rm shows the l ength of the audio remaining.
Inside th e waveform itself, the lighter par t indicates the pres ence of beats whereas the darker pa rt indicates the presence of voca ls
3. Virtual Turntable - Use the mouse to scratch, back cue, and pause. Also note the virtual turntable arm moves relative t o th e track position giving a visual of how m uch time is left on the play ing track.
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4. Loop Sampler -
Sample Selection Drop-down arrow - Choose which sample to use. There are 12 slots which are availab le to record, load and play samples.
Sample Selection window - When clicked this will play the sample listed in the selection window.
REC button - When initiated, this function records the loop to the sample slot selected.
If no loop is currently set on this deck, a 4 bar loop will be recorded by default.
Wet / Dry knob - Controls the level of gain applied to the loop sample.
5. Loop Set /Control
Loop In/Out - A loop is any area of a track that repeats seamlessly. Press “Loop In” at the point where the loop is to start. Press “Loop Out” when the desired point to mark the end point of the loop. The audio between the two points will begin to loop continuously.
To release the loop and continue play of the track press “Loop Out” again and the audio will continue from the end point of the loop. To set a new loop, just press “Loop In” again while the loop is disengaged, and then press “Loop Out” to begin the new loop.
Shift Knob - Adjusts the loop length by half length or double length increments.
Smart Lock button - Allows the loop buttons to work together to create loops synchronized to BPM.
Loop Length - This indicates the length of the loop accor ding to beat measures.
Increase or decrease the length of the loop from 1/4 to 16 measures.
6. Effects
Effects Selection Dropdown arrow - Select which effect to apply.
Effects Selection Dropdown window - When clicked this will apply the effect selected.
Parameter 1 & 2 knobs - These two knobs adjust parameters of the effect selected in the dropdown window, although not all effects require or make use of these knobs.
7. Transport
Cue - Returns and pauses the music at the default Cue Point. To set a Cue Point, pause the song, seek to the desired position (for example by rotating the virtual turntable), and then click on “Cue”. Also, a right-click on the “Cue” button will set a Cue
Point while the track is playing. Once on the Cue Point, pressing and holding down
“Cue” allows for temporary play of this point. To delete a Cue Point, right-click on its icon on the Waveform display, and select “delete”.
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Stutter/Play - Sta rts the music. Pressing “Stutter/Play” while the song is already playing, will restart the music from the last position you pressed “Play” from, creating a
“stutter” effect.
Pa use - Stops the audio where it is currently playing. Subsequent clicks while stopped cycles through the beginning of the song and all the Cue Points. Right-clicking while stopped automatica lly goes to the first detected beat in the song.
8. Sync
W hen clicking “Sync”, VirtualDJ will sync the tempo of the deck to the opposite deck’s tempo.
Press “Sync” while the song is paused, only the pitch will be adjusted.
Press “Sync” while the song is playing, the beats will be smoothly aligned too.
Right-click on “Sync”, the song will start already aligned on the next beat.
(Attention: the right-click sync doesn’t use the Computed Beat Grid (CBG) but instead aligns the next audible beat. This behavior lets you purposely start on half or a quarter notes for special effects, but the downside is that it won’t work during a break or when there is no audible beats).
Pitch slider / Pitch buttons 9.
Controls the speed/pitch of the music by moving the slider downward the speed o f the m usic speeds up. By moving upward the speed slows down. The “Zero” button lets you smoothly bring the pitch back to 100%. Double click on it to bring it back instantly.
Th e two Pitch buttons are used to temporarily change the speed of the track playing.
This is useful when you want to make a quick adjustment to a track if the beat of the track is not exactly matching up with the beat of the track playing on th e other deck. The s peed will be affected as long as you are pressing down “+” or “-“.
10.
K eyLock
W hen enabled changing the pitch of the song does not change the tone of the track.
Keylock can be enabled at any point along the pitch range to maintain the desired tone at that pitch while still being able to further adjust the pitch. When disabled tone changes based on the pitch used – slower pitch = slower deeper tone, faster pitch – faster higher (chipmunk) sounding tone.
11. Hot Cue
Use the three (3) buttons to set cue points. The first time that a left-click on one of these buttons, a cue point will be set. At any time left-clicking on the corresponding button and the track jumps back to that cue point. To set a new cue point for the hot cue, rightclick the corresponding hot cue button. If wanting to delete a cue point, right-click on its icon in the waveform display, and select “delete”.
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INTERNAL MIXER CONTROLS
Virtual DJ features an internal mixer section as part of the InternalMixer skin. The mixer can be accessed by selecting the “VirtualDJ:InternalMixer” in the Configuration Skin section.
It can be used just like a regular DJ mixer.
The co n trols on the mixer include:
1 . Channe l Gain
This knob sets the gain level for the corresponding channel (deck).
(Right clicking will bring it to the value that matches the other deck le vel. Double clicking brings it back to 0)
2. Channel Faders
T hese vertical faders allow you to adjust the audio signal of the desired channel.
3. EQ
T hese knobs allow you to adjust the low, mid, and high frequencies of the audio playing on the desired channel of the mixer. Each frequency range can also be cut b y pressing the corresponding
“Kill” button .
4 . PFL
Sends the pre-fader level of the audio to the cue section for headphone monitoring.
5. Crossfader
The crossf ader blends audio or vide o between the two decks. By sliding this fader from channel to channel you can isolate the left and right deck or blend them together.
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TOP TOOLBAR CONTROLS
Not all skin interfaces provide this set of controls, however; there are some elements common in all the skins (those are annotated with an asterisk * ).
1. Headphone level
Volume control for headphone level.
2. Cue/Mix blend
Fade to hear just the cue, cue/mix, o r mix signal only in the headphones.
3. BPM button *
Opens BPM edit window. Each butto n respective to it positioned deck.
4. Master Volume *
Controls main output of program
5. Clock *
Displays time, and when clicked with m ouse can act as a counter.
6. Config a nd Window controls *
Provides access to the configuration settings dialog. See “Configuration S ettings” section of this manual for more information.
Windows controls provide the Minimiz e, Maximize, and Close application options.
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RHYTHM WINDOW
Above the players, a window posts curves corresponding to the two rates/rhythms of the music. These curves are represented in a waveform, allo wing you to see your music. The p eaks in the curve represent beats. In order to synchronize the music, these peaks should occur at the same time. The present is represented by the feature in the middle of the screen.
A ll on the left was already played, while what is on the right represents the next seconds of the track.
Y ou c an zoom in or zoom out the d isplay using the slider on the left, or the three preset b utton s (1, 2, 3) on the ri ght side of the rhythm window.
Below the curves there are small squares , named CBG (Computed Beat Grid), which repres e nt the position of measures. Th e large squares represent the beginning of a measure
4:4 time. The CBG is particularly useful, for example, when mixing a track at the time of an intro w here the beat is not yet present.
In the picture above, you can see that the beats are completely synchronized – it is easy to see th at the peaks (beats) of the music are l ined up. However, some music does not have the very o bvious single beat peaks that most ho use and techno music has. This is when the CBG is very useful. If you look at the following graphics, it is not exactly clear where the beats should sync up by just observing the wave form visually. However, with the help of the CBG, it becomes much easier to synchronize the two tracks:
NOT BEAT MATCHED – CBG NOT ALIGNED
BEAT MATCHED – CBG NOT ALIGNED
BEAT MATCHED – CBG ALIGNED
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MANUAL BPM CORRECTION
The CBG is calculated automatically when a track is loaded for the first time. VirtualDJ uses powerful algorithms to calculate the BPM and the CBG of music (1 of 2 algorithms ca n be chosen - a fast but effective algorithm which works well for techno and house, and a slower algorithm which is effective on any type of music).
H owever, in some rare cases, the CBG is not correctly positioned on the beats of the song. In this case, you can easily carry out a manual correction.
Click on the button.
There are several methods to correct the BPM and the CBG:
The simplest method is to beat-match the track with u nknown BPM with a track whose B PM is already known, then clicking on "copy from other deck".
Alternatively, the anchor method can be used.
Click on "beat tap" button while the track playing, in order to approximate th e BPM.
Then, pause the track, advance the track to the downbeat (first beat), and click on "First anchor". Then advance to the upbeat (second beat), and click on
"Second anchor". Check that the number of beats displayed corresponds well to t he number of beats b etween the two anchors.
Then go further in the music, and repeat the "second anchor" operation if you notice that the beats and the
CBG shift. Normally two or three anchors should be enough to obtain an accurate CBG.
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CONFIGURATION SETTINGS
VirtualDJ is designed to be very simple and easy to use but it is also fully customizable to match your preferred system performance.
To make changes to VirtualDJ’s configuration, click on the button. This will bring you to the “Settings” dialog. The options in the “Settings” dialog can be viewed and edited by clicking on the corresponding tab on top of the “Settings” window and include:
SOUND SETUP
The “Sound S etu p” tab is w here the sound card (or device) configuration is set for functioning w ith VirtualDJ.
Inputs – If using timecoded vinyl or CDs to c ontrol VirtualDJ, select the appropriate input configuration from this pull-down list.
Choices are “NONE”, “Single Timcode” for
Single control, and “Timecodes” for Dual
C ontrol. Setting up VirtualDJ for Timecode u se is covered in detail in the “Timecode” s ection of this guide.
O utputs – Select the preferred output c onfiguration from this pull-down list. Please n ote that, depending on your sound card, s ome output options may not be available for use. Choices are “Single Output”,
“H eadphones”, “External Mixer” (2 channel output), or “3-Lines Mixer” (3 channel output).
Sound card(s) – Select the sound card driver which yo u would like to use with the VirtualDJ software.
Sound card – Select the sound card in this pulldown list.
Output Channels
(not shown)
– Select the routing of outp uts on soundcard when the Outputs dropdown is set to one of the following choices - “Headphones”, “External Mixer” (2 channel o utput), or “3-Lines Mixer” (3 channel output).
For further explanation of “Sound Setup” variations see the “Advance Sound Setup” section of this guide.
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OPTIONS
The Options settings control the multiple features and actions to accommodate the DJ’s style for using the VirtualDJ application.
BPM Engine – Allows you to choose between the two different algorithms available for the analysis of BPM. The f irst algorithm, “techno/house,” bases itself on the detection of the beats in the music, and should be used with music that has a very pronounced beat. The s econd, “any music”, should be used with music which does not have a distinct, pronounced be at. This algorithm uses m elody as the basis of analysis and requires more computer resources than the first.
Cross Fader – This option allows you to select the cross fader curve. There are four different options including: Full, Cut,
Scratch, and Smooth. (other curves can be set through plug-in s).
Pitch Range – Allows you to change the pitch range of the pitch slider. Reducing the range of pitch can increase the precision with which you are able to control the pitch (speed) of the records.
AutoUpdate – Automatically checks for ne w versions of VirtualDJ (internet connection required).
Charts - Authorizes VirtualDJ to send anonymous statistics about your sessions, compile c harts of the most played tracks all over the world. These statistics are available on www.virtualdj.com/charts.html. No personal information will be collected.
M SN – When activated, this option will allow your MSN Messenger to show the music you are playing. To take advantage of this feature, you need to ma ke sure that the “what I am listening” o ption is on in your MSN Messenger.
Security – This setting prevents you from loading a track on a deck while it is playing. If you select “Ask”, VirtualDJ will prompt you to verify that you, indeed, want to load a track while the d eck is playing. If you select “Always”, VirtualDJ will not allow you to load a track to a deck that is already playing. If you select “None”, the security feature will be disabled.
Tool Tip – Enable or disable the tool tip window. These tips appear when you hover the mouse cursor over the buttons of the software.
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OPTIONS
AutoLoad Playlists – See page 18 – “Playlist Setup”
A utoSave Unplayed – See page 21 – “AutoSave Unplayed”
Auto Pitch Matching – When loading a son g, automatically adjusts the pitch so that the BPM matches the BPM of the song currently play ing.
Auto Gain – This is the gain adjustment setting for VirtualDJ. If you Select “always 0db,”
VirtualDJ will automatically modify the leve l of the tracks to always obtain a level of 0dB (the loudest level without clipping the signal). If you select “always match”, the volume on both decks will always be the same. Selecting “disable” will remove all automatic gain correction from the tracks.
Pitch Reset on Load – If you enable this op tion, the pitch slider will be reset to 0% every time you load a track.
E Q Reset on Load – If enabled, this option will reset the equalizer on the deck when you load a new track onto it.
Auto Cue – If enabled, will advance track p osition to the first cue point if one exists (or with the first beat of the song if no cue exists and if “always” is selected) when load ing a track.
A uto Headphones – This option allows for automatic switching of headphone cues. If you select “on load”, the headphone cue will switch the headphone cue when you load a new track.
If you select “always” the headphone cue will switch when you load a new track or scratch a track that is already playing.
Disengage Beatlock – Once engaged, the Beatlock feature will keep the deck locked to the beat on the other deck, no matter if you are scratching or changing the pitch on the other deck.
D isengage “on load” or “on switch” will automatically disengage the beatlock feature when the deck is loaded/switched.
Auto-Cross Length – Use this slider to specify the duration of the fa de during automatic m ixing. If this is set to 0 (left side), the tracks will play from start to finish.
Max Load – Specifies the duration maximum beyond which the track will not be loaded in memory. Loading tracks which are t oo long in memory may put a strain on your system p erformance and cause VirtualDJ to not function properly. This function makes it possible to play long tracks without overloading the memory of your computer.
Scrolling – Allows reversing the direction of the scrolling rhythm window.
D isc – Allows selecting the spinning rate of the virtual turntables (default: 33 1/3 turns).
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PERFORMANCE SETTINGS
V irtualDJ provides a simple, yet complex; interface for optimizing performance to the capabilities of the computer based on its specifications. Depe nding on the system’s resources, s ome settings will work better than others. It is recommended that the DJ take time to experiment with the settings in order to achieve the best performance of their system prior to using VirtualDJ in a live performance.
NOTE: When new components (controllers, soundcards, external drive, and software) are added to the system, performance options may require changing to achieve a new best possible performance based on the additions or changes to the system.
Presets
U se this slider to select different preset configurations for the parameters below . Shift the “Presets” s lider to the right for “Best Quality” of sound, or shift the slider to the left for
“Fastest” performanc e.
NOTE: Not all systems are able to handle the HIGHEST setting for “Best Quality”. It is highly recommended to start at the “Fastest” preset and work towards the “Best Quality” setting testing each se tting.
S oundcard
Latency – the amount of time it takes for a device to respond to a comma nd. Latency makes a significant difference when using timecoded vinyl, CDs, MIDI or external control devices. The lower the latency setting the more instantly the software will respond, but the more likely the
DJ will hear glitches and pops if your computer is not fast enough to process the audio.
NOTE : in ASIO mode, some soundcard drivers don’t work well wit h a latency forced by the s oftware. In such case, use the “Auto” value, and set the latency in the soundcard’s control panel.
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PERFORMANCE SETTINGS
Safe Mode – When using a DirectX mode setting (like Simple, Dual, Mono or 4.1), VirtualDJ is less likely to produce glitches and pops if your CPU is momentarily busy. The performance trade off is scratching and pitch adjustments will use more CPU, especially with advanced algorithms. So, if using advanced Master Tempo this will probably need to be disabled, unless the computer is very fast.
NOTE : this option has no effect on ASIO or Low-Latency modes
Overclock – This setting can make your computer run faster (espec ially on laptops) and th erefore be compatible with lower latencies.
Scratch – Allows for adjustment to how VirtualDJ reacts to scratch motions
Optimize for :
Quality – VirtualDJ wi ll more accur ately represent how a scratch sounds when moving the virtual record back and forth
Latency – VirtualD J reacts as quickly as possible but might result in a somewhat m ore metallic sound.
Scratch algorithm :
Simple Algorithm – adds no computational overhead, and will use a simple interpolation algorithm to compute the scratch sound
Enhanced Algorithm – uses an advanced algorithm that mimics the movement of the needle on the grooves, to obtain the best scratch sound possible. A filter size of 11 gives the best quality/CPU ratio, producing a very good quality while keeping a low computational overhead.
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PERFORMANCE SETTINGS
48kHz <-> 44kHz
Describes how VirtualDJ will interpolate between the 48kHz and 44.1kHz sample rates.
Choosing “Basic Interpolation” will save some system resources and could improve performance. For better q uality interpolation, choose “Lowpass Filter”. 11 taps is the best q uality/CPU ratio.
NOTE : Most commercially available music is recorded at
44.1kHz (including MP3s) so it is a good idea to set your soundcard’s o utput to 44.1kHz.
T his will prevent your soundcard from having to interpolate to different sample rates and will improv e performance. Unless you h ave worked with different sample rates before, the 44.1kHz setting should be default for your sound card)
M aster Tempo
The master tempo is the algorithm controls how VirtualDJ changes the pitch of the song without chang ing its tone (“KeyLock featu re”).
The default “Fast” algorithm takes only a small percentage of the CPU power, and produces good results at pitches in the range of -10% to +10%. For extreme pitching, the fast algorithm can produce some choppiness. If your computer is fast enough, this can be corrected by using the Advanced algorithm option. With the Advance option, raising the complexity or spatialization of the algorithm can quickly overflow the systems CPU’s capabilities.
NOTE: Disab le safe-mode for better performance with the Advance algorithm
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SKINS
VirtualDJ allows you to choose between several different “skins”.
VirtualDJ:Basic – a basic, simple skin.
V irtualDJ:Full – a skin which features fu ll VirtualDJ controls.
Virtua lDJ:FullVideo – a skin featuring full VirtualDJ controls plus a video section in the middle.
Virtua lDJ:InternalMixer – a skin featuri ng full VirtualDJ controls plus a full-fea tures audio mixer in the middle.
KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS
V irtualDJ provides a quick access c apability to all of its parameters through assigning keybo ard shortcuts to a wide a ssortment of th e VirtualDJ actions.
F rom the “Keyboard Shortcuts” tab,
VirtualDJ provides a ‘default’ preset collection of shortcuts assigned to the keyboard.
Shortcuts can be added, changed, or d eleted using the respective buttons.
Changes to the ‘default’ presets can be saved as a new preset collection by using the “Save”.
Using the “Load”, custom preset collections can be loaded for use.
“Merge” provides the ability to merge multiple preset collections together.
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Shortcut Macros
A shortcut macro is the process of assigning multiple actions to the same key or key c ombination. The power of the macro comes from the order they are listed. So open the
C onfiguration dialog and select the Keyboard Shortcuts tab.
Here is an example of a highly request ma cro that provides a ‘Mix Now’ capability.
The actions to be used are auto_crossfa de, play, a nd select and assigned to the Space bar for activation. auto_crossfade – moves the crossfader play – activates the play of the track select – changes which deck is now the active deck
To build the macro, add the auto_crossfa de action first. Select the Add button to get the action dialog. Hit the ‘Space’ bar to add th at to th e Key section. Choose the ‘all’ in the left list, th en ‘auto_crossfade’ from the middle list. Use th e drop-down and select ‘on active deck’.
T hen click OK.
Repeat this process for ‘play’ and ‘select’ and be sure to choose the ‘on active deck’ from t he drop-down option. The ‘play’ and ‘select’ o ptions can be found in the ‘deck controls’ o ption of the left list.
Now once OK is click for adding each of those actions, VirtualDJ will provide a dialog that states ‘This shortcut is already assigned.
Click Yes to add the new shortcut and build up macros. Click No to replace the prev ious shortcut.’ Click ‘Yes’ to build u p the macro.
And once each item is added, click ‘OK’ at the bottom of the
Configuration dialog and test shortcut.
In this exam ple the ‘Space’ bar was used and is not the required key in order to make it work.
Any key or key combination can be used as long as all actions are assigned to that key. Also, remember the power is in the order of the actions. If this macro is configured in a different order the results of functionality can differ.
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NETWORK
VirtualDJ can be synchronized between multiple instances and/or synchronize multiple computers running VirtualDJ.
No synchronization – turns synchronization off.
Local sync hronization – allows multiple instances of the VirtualDJ software to run and s ynchr onize together on the same computer.
Netwo rk synchronization – allows severa l computers running VirtualDJ to synchronize over a network.
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REMOTE CONTROL
V irtualDJ can be controlled using a wide array of external controllers. The “Remote Control” s ection of the Settings menu provides the setup to ‘enable’ VirtualDJ to work with the external controller. Once the controller is connected, start VirtualDJ, select the “Config” and se lect the
“Remote Control” tab and enab le the controller by clicking on the corresponding graphic for the c ontroller. Then select ‘Activate’ from the pop-up menu. If the controller is properly set up and connected the graphic is highlighted green. If the controller is improperly connected or d isconnected and selected to be ‘Activated’, the graphic will appear with a red highlight around it. If the controller does not seem to function correctly try deactivating and activating the controller again to reset the connection.
Controllers are support via 2 methods – Native support or MIDI support.
Native Support – a native supp orted controller can be connected to the computer and then by s electing the appropriate controller option in the Remote Control tab begin to function without any additional configuration being set. Native support of a controller does not imply that all of the controller’s features or functionality will control the corresponding actions in VirtualDJ.
Most controllers can be enhanced or expanded to support additional functions through the use of custom coded mappers available for download.
NOTE : Some controllers may require supporting drivers to be loaded before the system recognizes them, so consult the User Manual for the controller before install.
Native Supported Controllers –
Numark iCDX, DMC2, DMC1 (v2), Total Control
PCDJ DAC-2, DAC-3
Hercules DJ Console (DJC)
Denon HC4500
Behringer BCD2000
D-Vinyl 2020
XP-10
ION iCUE
General MIDI Support –
If using a MIDI controller is not natively supported then use the General MIDI controller option.
Like the Keyboard Shortcuts, MIDI mappings for each parameter can be configured to control
VirtualDJ. Click the “Config” button for access MIDI mapping interface.
You will see the “MIDI Config” appear. In this menu options for creating, loading, saving, merging, and modifying the MIDI mappings is available. If you would like to add mappings by hand, click on “Add”. Select the parameter to map from the menu on the left, as well as which deck the mapping will apply to. Then move the control (on the MIDI controller – knob, slider, etc.) to map to the parameter. VirtualDJ will automatically detect the controller number and map it to the parameter.
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CODECS
VirtualDJ is able to decode several formats natively with its audio and video decoders. The
Codec tab identifies what file types (by extension) use what specific decoder for play in
VirtualDJ.
At install, VirtualDJ includes the some of the common sound and video file extensions. If,
VirtualDJ is not already associated with a specific extension for an audio or video codec then select the ‘Add’ button. Enter the extension and then select from the several available decoder engines that VirtualDJ is able to use as a decoding engine.
Determining Appropriate Selection for a Unique codec
If VirtualDJ’s MP3 or Video decoder is unable process a certain file then that unique encoded format (codec) can be assigned to one of th e other supported decoders. Ensure the appropriate CODEC for that audio or video type is installed to the operating system and the file is playable in one of the supported decoder applications listed in the VirtualDJ Decoder dropdown. Then assigned that file extension type to that decod er.
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VIDEO
ENABLE / DISABLE – Provides the ability to have the application’s video engine enabled or disabled. By disabling the video engine ALL video features of the application are not usable and may increase performance for DJ’s using only the AUDIO features of the application.
Activate – Turn the video engine on or off.
TV Output – Select the monitor that will display the video master output.
NOTE: Only Monitors which are part of the windows desktop can be selected. If the monitor is not in the list, Open Windows’ display settings and activate the ‘Extend desktop on this monitor’ for the desired monitor.
U se Hardware Acceleration – Use DirectX to compute and display the video.
NOTE: unless you are using a video card that is fairly old, you shouldn’t turn this off.
Linked crossfaders –
This option allows VirtualDJ to link to the audio crossfader for controlling video crossfades. If unlinked (unchecked) the video cr ossfade can be controlled using th e video crossfader knob labeled
“Cross” underneath the video screen in FullVideo skin.
Decode while hidden –
Provided with a strong performance computer, VirtualDJ can decode video content even when it is hidden. This will prevent some jolts that may occur when video content is brought into the mix with the crossfader.
Activate on load –
Activates the video engine automatically if a video file is loaded on either deck. If wanting to play just the audio track of a video, unc heck this feature so the video engine will not be activated.
Hide logo – Checking this option will hide the applic ation logo from the video mix window.
Audio Only Plug-in – Check this option and select the desired plug-in from the drop-down box. When playing audio-only files, this option will activate the plug-in to act as a visual.
Example plug-in selection is the Sonique visuals.
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INFO
The VirtualDJ Info tab provides the version number along with copyright statement for the application. There are three useful buttons:
Check for Updates : makes and internet query to the Vi rtualDJ Download Center and checks to see if any updates are available. [Interne t Connection required]
Download Plug-ins : Launches the browser associated with http req uest an directs the b rowse r to the ‘Add-ons’ section of the website.
Reset to Factory settings : Reset VirtualDJ’s settings back to the recommended defaults. All c onfig uration tabs are affected by the change.
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SAMP LER
VirtualDJ features a powerful sampler, which provides the ability to record, load, save and play samples on the fly. The sampler can be acce ssed by clicking on the “Sampler” tab in the lower w indow and features 12 slots for samples which are available to use at any given point in time.
There are two types of samples that are supported – linear (one shot), and circular (looping) samples.
Linear samples are samples which are played beginning to end. Typically, linear samples do not have an intrinsic rhythm, and are often sound effects (applause, sirens, etc).
Circular samples are played in a looping fashion.
Most often, these samples have an intrinsic rhythm, which can be repeated forever.
However, there is no rule about how to use samp les – it is all up to you whether you will use a sample in a linear or circular fashion.
Playing Samples
To play a sample you can simply click on the “Play” button associat ed with the sample cell.
If the sample is a linear (one shot) sample, the sample cell will display -
The sample is played alongside the mix until the end of the sample.
If the sample is circular (looping) sample, the sample cell will display -
The sample is played alongside the mix and will continue to loop until the play of the sample is stopped when “Play” is pressed a second time.
The speed of the sample is modified in order to synchronize with the active deck at the nearest possible aligned beat when played. This ensures that the rhythm of the sample will be beatmatched and aligned with the active deck, resulting in a smooth, natural sample playback.
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Samples can be played from the loop sampler menu found as part of the controls for each deck. Simply select the sample from the pull-down menu, and then click on the sample title to begin play. The frame around the title will light up during playback. If the sample is a loop, then click the sample title again to stop the loop. Linear samples will stop when the end is reached. The play volume of the sample can also be controlled using the Volume knob.
Recording Samples
VirtualDJ can easily record samples which are then instantly ready to play.
To record a linear (one shot) sample, click the “Jingle” button on the bottom of the sample cell to begin recording. Click on “Jingle” once again to stop recording. The sample is recorded from the deck that is currently in use (the Active Deck).
To record a circular (looping) sample, use the deck’s loop control to set th e loop then click the “Loop” button on the bottom of the sample cell.
The loop is automatically recorded to that sample cell and ready for immediate use.
If the “Loop” button is clicked without defining a loop using the deck controls, a 4 beat loop is automatically re corded.
CAUTION
Recorded samples are not saved for use in subsequent sessions.
To save the sample, use the “Sample Options” menu and select the “Save…” option.
S ample Options
For each sample cell, there is a sample options menu available by clicking on the small button in the top right of the sample cell.
•
Load – loads a sample from the hard drive.
•
Save – saves the sample to the hard drive.
•
Beatlock – turns beatlocking on and off. This way a linear sample is able to be synchronized with the active deck, or prevent a looping sample from synchronizing to the active deck.
•
AutoPlay – when checked, begins playing the sample as soon as the volume is adjuste
•
Write Protected – write-protect the sample cell so it cannot be recorded over. d.
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EFFECTS
VirtualDJ features a comprehensive set of audio and video effects and transitions which can be accessed by clicking the “Effects” tab on the lower window. The effect s list is displayed on the left side of the window and each of these effects can be activated for both decks. Multiple effects, both audio and video; can be applied.
To use an effect, select the effect and activate it on whichever deck th e effect should be applied. This is done by clicking on one of the two “Activate” buttons in the middle panel of the window. The bu tton will light up showing activated. Deactivate the effect by clicking on the
“A ctivate” button again.
The parameters for the selected effect are displ ayed on the right panel of the window. The p arameters will change depending on which effect is selected. Adjust the parameters by m oving the faders of the associated parameters.
Effects can also be used from the effects panel on the deck contro ls.
Differe nt effects can be selected using the pop-up menu. Enable and disable effects by clicking on the displayed effect title. If using the effects panel on th e deck control, multiple effects can not be activated for that deck – this p anel only allows activation of one effect at a time.
VIDEO akes it possible to mix video content with the e e iles (.mp3, .wma, .m4a, etc.), video files
(.
i, ce provides all the same ith audio content.
Video files are distinguished in the Browser with a small, blue “V” on their icon and can be lo e
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If the installed video c ard has a TV output or a second output screen, the secondary output can be specified as the output for full-screen display, instead of the windowed output. The desired output is specified by using settings in the Configuration dialog on the Video tab.
If full-screen output does not appear, check that the output is recognized in Windows display properties, and that Windows is in a dual monitor mode (not clone). For more information, see the video card manufacture’s instruction manual.
VirtualDJ provides an installed Rip DVD utility for ripping the video files from a DVD to the computer’s hard disk in a high-quality
.VOB format.
Transition Effects
VirtualDJ features many different transitions effects for transitioning the mix from one video clip to another.
From the Effects panel , select the “Video Transitions” section, the select to highlight and a ccess the desired transition. Click on the “Activate” button to have VirtualDJ to perform automatically the selected transition when the mix from one deck to the other occurs.
If using the VirtualDJ:FullVideo skin, the d esired transition effect can be selected and actvated from the ‘Transition’ button found in the “Effects” zone just below the video preview windows.
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There are two ways to mix video clips: automatically or manually.
To mix manually, use the video crossfader to go from one video to another.
Or, just click on one of the video preview windo ws to smoothly crossfade to that deck.
A nd, if the “Link the Video crossfader” is checked in the Video configuration tab, the skin’s a udio crossfader will crossfader the video when it is move from one deck to the other.
Alternatively, Virtual DJ do the video mixing automatically.
Most transition effects feature a powerful “intelligent” algorithm that will process the transition of the video b y analyzing what is being done with the sound (cueing, scratching, cros sfading, e tc).
In order to use the automatic behavior “Activate” the video transition effect. Do this either by clicking on “Activate” in the “Effects” page, or by clicking on the transition title on the
V irtualDJ:FullVideo skin.
Video Effects
Similarly to audio effects, video effects are used to transform the video on either deck.
Use the “Video Effects” in the “Effects” panel and activate the desired effect on the specific deck. Or, select and activate the video effect from the video controls underneath the preview video windows in VirtualDJ:FullVideo skin.
S elect the desired effect using the pull-down menu under “Effect” and then click on the box to activate it.
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Optimization
In general, video mixing is much heavier in computer resources than audio mixing so certain o ptimization may help performance, especially when dealing with full frame rate video (such as
D VD in high definition).
T here are several parameters which determine the speed with which VirtualDJ decompresses and displays video content – the size of memory present on your video card, the spee d of the g raphics processor (GPU), the speed of the main central processor (CPU), and the access s peed of the hard disk.
A nother parameter which largely influences performance is the type of file. An MPEG1 format fi le is much faster to decompress than a VOB format file. In a similar way, a file with a 320x240 re solution is much faster to decompress than a file with a 720x576 resolution.
By default, VirtualDJ decompresses only the content which is visible in the video mix window.
This means that if there are two clips which are playing but only one is visible, Virtu alDJ will on ly decompress the video which is visible. If both video files are shown in the mix window, then VirtualDJ will decompress both. This makes the softw are perform quicker and also allows it to perform better on slower machines. However, this may result in small jolts at the time of transitions. If the computer configuration is sufficiently powerful, we recommend checking the
“Decode while hidden” box in the “Video” settings in the “Config” menu to obtain more fluid transi tions.
Also, if using a full-screen output to display the video mix, it is more effective to use a graphics card which has two outputs, than using two separate cards.
A nd finally, we recommend the use of an output resolution no greater than the resolution of the v ideo files. If using higher resolutions, low-resolution content will not look any better but will be using more com puter resources. A resolution of 800x600 should be sufficient if using highq uality DVD video.
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KARAOKE
In addition to being able to play music and other video content, VirtualDJ allows provides support to play and mix karaoke files.
V irtualDJ is compatible with MP3+G, WAV+G, WMA+G, OGG+G, and .ZIP files.
The tracks will appear with a “K” in its icon . When loaded on the deck, VirtualDJ will load the audio track on the deck and display the CDG file in the video mixer.
VirtualDJ supports the binding of the CDG files with its MP3 counter parts as one single .ZIP file.
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BROADCASTING AND RECORDING
VirtualDJ provides an additional ability to record or broadcast the output. To access the recording and broadcasting features click on the “Record” tab. The following interface is d isplayed.
The following methods are available:
•
Record
•
Burn
•
Broadcast
To access the recording settings click on the “Config” button at the top center of the interface.
Record From
In the “Config” dialog, three different sources for recording are available. These options are a available for all three methods.
•
Master – record the mix from the session
•
Master + MIC – record the mix and another audio source (such as a microphone).
•
Line IN – record only from the Line input of the soundcard or I/O interface. For example, if using an external mixer to mix the output of the mixer can be connected to the Line input of the soundcard or I/O device. The recording will feature all of the manipulations and cross fading performed on the external mixer.
There are additional configuration adjustments associated with each of the methods.
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R ecording to a file (“Record File”)
“Record File” provides recording a mix session to a .WAV or .MP3 file direct to the system’s hard drive. When the recording is completed, it can then be listened to in VirtualDJ, edited with an audio editing application, or written to a
CD using a CD burning software.
To setup the “Record File”, click on
“Config” to access the configuration settings for recording a file.
Record From –
•
chooses the recording source
•
Auto-Start – checking this box will automatically begin the recording when the first track begins pla ying.
If not checked then manual ac tivation of the reco rding will need to be activated using the “Start Re cording” button
File –
•
Path – provide the path and name of the file where the recording is going to be saved.
•
Prompt if overwrite – checked will prompt to overwrite when trying to record to a file that alrea dy exists.
•
Split in multiple files – checked will split the session as separate tracks, instead of one large audio file. When splitting to separate tracks, a “Cut” button appears next to the
“Start Recording” button to demarcate tracks. The “Auto-split on crossfade” option will automatically demarcate tracks when the crossfader in the VirtualDJ interface begins to move to the deck being mixed in.
Fo rm t
•
– select the audio file format to be u
WAV – will record a .WAV audio file sed when recording.
•
MP3 – will reco rd an .MP3 audio file
•
Encoder – this is the path to the M P3 encoder for use in recording the MP3. If the encoder to use is in a different folder th an the VirtualDJ folder, use the browse button
( ,,, ) to navigate and select the encod er’s location
•
Bitrate – select the bitrate to use in recording the MP3. A bitrate of 192Kbps is recommended for CD-quality recording.
Once the choices are set, click “OK” and then “Start Recording” when ready. Press “Stop
Recording” when finished with the session.
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Burn CD
VirtualDJ can record the session in a CD ima ge format for quick burning of a session to CD.
Select “Burn CD” for VirtualDJ to record the s ession as a .BIN/.CUE file type which contains all the necessary information for burning softwa re that supports image types of BIN and CUE.
Click on “Config” to access the configuration settings for CD recording.
Record From –
•
chooses the recording source
•
Auto-Start – checking this box will automatically begin the recording when the first track begins playing. If not checked then manual activation of the recording will need to be activated u sing the “Start Recording” button
Fil e –
•
•
Path – provide the path and name of t he file where the recording is going to be saved.
Prompt if overwrite – checked will prompt to overwrite when trying to record to a file that already exists.
Once the choices are set, click “OK” and then “Start R ecording” when ready. Press “Stop
Recording” when finished with the session. And, to demarcate tracks use the “Cut” button found n ext to the “Start Recording” button.
Wh en finished recording the .BIN/.CUE file specified in the File Path field can be burned with a
.BIN/.CUE supported CD-burning application. For more information about burning .BIN/.CUE file c
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Broadcas ting to the Internet (“Broadcast”)
VirtualDJ provides a method for broadcasting the session in realtime on the Internet as a
“w ebcast.”. This way people around the world can listen to the mix session.
Click on “Config” to access the configuration settings for recording a file.
Record From –
•
chooses the recording source
•
Auto-Start – checking this box will automatica lly begin the recording when the first track begins playing. If no t checked then manual activation of the recording will need to be activated using the “Start Recording” button
Format –
•
Icecast – OGG format streaming
•
Shoutcast – MP3 format streaming Shoutcast will also need to know which MP3 Encoder will be used.
•
Encoder – Use the browse button ( … ) to navigate the computer folder structure and select the encoder file to use.
•
Bitrate - Select the desired bitra te for the encoding. NOTE: Higher bitrates will consume a large bandwidth in the internet connection to stream and listen to MP3 audio.
Server –
There are two ways to broadcast the mix session. Broadcast using a dedicated radio server, or broadcast direct the computer.
Broadcast from my own computer – this option turn s the computer into a webcast station.
This way once the “Start Recording” but is click the webcast will be gin.
Max number of clients – this is the maximum listener s that the webcast may have.
NOTE : Please remember that the bandwidth of the Internet connection needs to be able to accommodate the number of listeners. Decreasing the quality of the audio signal (the bitrate) makes it possible to accommodate a greater number of listeners.
When ready to broadcast click on “Start Recording”. VirtualDJ will indicate the address of the webcast (for example http://123.45.67.89/Virtual.ogg). The address then can be sent to the intended listeners so they can connect and listen to the webcast using their favorite Internet audio players.
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Caution:
If using a floating Internet connection, the address of the webcast could change from session to session. In this case, the broadcasting address should be communicated each time to the listeners.
Caution:
To listen to the mix, the software used by the listeners must be able to communicate with the broadcasting computer via the webcast server. This means that the broadcasting computer may ne ed additional configurations and/or any software firewalls protecting the broadcasting Internet connection be set to authorize incoming and outgoing connections to and from the broadcastin g computer.
NOTE :
If using a router, port forwarding maybe require d for connection to the webcast server on the broadcasting computer.
Bro adcast to a radio server – this option allo ws setup of broadcasting the mix session to
En t and password, and VirtualDJ will automatically broadcast the mix to the server using the format in s et in the Format section.
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TIMECODE CONTROL
When you open the Timecode Configuration window, you can choose to view the window in
Simple or Advanced view. For the most part, you might never have to go into the Advanced
View – the Simple View shows the most essential timecode configuration that you will probably n eed.
You w ill notice that there is an Auto-Config button for each virtual deck.
This b utton can be used to automatically detect the required timecode setting s for the software to function properly.
To use the Auto-config feature:
1. Play both timecode input sources (i.e. play both timecode CDs or play both timecode rec ords).
2 . In the software, press each deck’s Auto-Config button to automatically configure the timecode settings.
If the timecode signal is c onfigured properly, you will see a green dot next to Timecode
Quality (as shown on the right in Simple
View)…
Or you should see a nice Sine wave pattern
(as shown on the right in Advance d View).
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Please refer to the following descriptions of the timecode configuration parameters (shown with Advanced View on the right): you are using timecoded vinyl.
2. CD – Choose this option if you are using timecoded CDs.
3. Mode – You can choose between 3 different timecode tracking modes. These modes will influ ence how the timecode is controlling playback position on the corresponding deck:
Absolute – This mode is similar to how music is normally played on vinyl. The beginning of the record corresponds to the beginning of the track and picking up the needle and moving it to another location on the vinyl, also known as needle dropping, will move playback to that location in the track.
Please note that in Absolute mode you will not be able to use some of the software features, such as looping and cue points.
Relative – In this mode, the software will track the relative movement of the record
(forward, backward) but will not track the position of the within the control timecode. So, for example, you will not be able to seek to another location of the song by picking up the needle and dropping it on another part of the record. This mode is perfect for scratch DJs since it allows you to scratch without worrying about the needle skipping around on the record – the software will compensate for any skip that might occur. In this mode, you are also allowed to use some additional software features, such as looping and cue points.
Smart (default) – This is the default timecode tracking mode and is the mode that we recommend most users use. In Smart mode, you have the ability to do needle drops but can also use the additional features of the software, such as pitch, loops and cue points. point at which the track begins to a position further into the vinyl. For example, this is useful if your records have cue burn in the beginning. Simply set the lead time to another bumber.
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5. Pitch adjusted after you alter the pitch of the timecode signal. Too small of a value will attempt to redraw the waveform when you scratch the timecode, which is not recommended.
Setting too high of a value will tak e longer to redraw the waveform, which may be visually confusing. Please experiment w ith a few different values to find the one best suited for your style.
Skip ill prevent playback from skipping if the needle happens to jump to another groove. Pl ease note that anti-skip is only available under Smart or
Relative modes.
7. Smart – If enabled, m oving the needle far to a different location on the timecode record (over more than one gr oove segment away) will cause the software to automatically jump to the next set cue point (forward or backward), instead of jumping to the absolute location where you d rop the needle.
8. Master oftware will time-stretch, instead of pitch shift, the music playing on the deck when you ch ange the pitch of the timecode signal. In other words, the Master Tempo features a s a Keylock, allowing you to change the tempo of the music without altering its pitch.
9. Track – If enabled, Br owser Track allows you to use the timecode signal to browse through your music in the s oftware. With Browser Track feature enabled, the last three groove segments become ded icated to browsing, so when you drop the needle onto one of these segments, you can scroll through your music titles by moving the record forward and backward.
10. Arrows rrows will copy the timecode preferences to the other deck.
11. Software RIAA Preamp – If enable d, allows you to plug a phono-level turntable directly into a line-level input on the sound card.
The following settings (12-17) will be set by the Auto-Config feature so you do not have to w orry about understanding them . The software will automatically configure them for y ou:
12. Gain – The gain compensation for the timecode signal.
13. Silence – Compensates for background/ambient noise by lowering/raising the noise floor threshold.
14. Invert Stereo – Virtually switches the left and right inputs and effectively reverses playback.
15. Invert – Software adjustment if your needle is wired incorrectly.
16. Up – Level of “1” value in the binary signal of the timecode
17. TC – Level of “0” value in the binary signal of the timecode.
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LEGAL INFORMATION http: //www.atomixproductions.com
http://www.virtualdj.com
Atomix Productions
PO Box 324
Warren, PA 16365
USA
VirtualDJ Copyright:
Copy right 1997-2007 Atomix Productions
All Ri ghts Reserved
Number IDDN.FR.001.040012.01.R.C.2000.000.31400.
Trade marks:
The L ogo is a registered trademark of Atomix Productions
Virtua lDJ is a registered trademark o f Atomix Productions iCDX, DMC2, DMC1 (v2), Total Control is a registered trademark of Numark, Inc.
PCDJ DAC-2, DAC-3 is a registered trademark of Digital 1 Audio, Inc. (D1DJ)
Hercu les DJ Console (DJC) is a registered trademark of Guillemot Corporation
Deno n HC4500 is a registered trademark of D&M Professional / Denon DJ
Behri nger BCD2000 is a registered trademark of BEHRINGER International GmbH
D-Vinyl 2020 is a registered trademark of Soundgraph, Inc.
XP-10 is a registered trademark of EKS
ION iC UE is a registered trademark of Ion Audio, LLC
L icense and restrictions:
According to the EULA (End User License Agreement) accepted by every user upon installation of VirtualDJ:
You MA Y NOT make or distribute copies of VirutalDJ, or electronically transfer VirtualDJ from one computer to a nother over a network.
You MAY NOT decompile, reverse engineer, disassemble, or otherwise red uce VirtualDJ to less than human perceivable form.
You M AY NOT modi fy or create derivate works from VirtualDJ.
You MAY NOT sell, to rent, to transfer or sublicense the software. You may not sell, to rent, to transfer or sublic ense hardware on which the software is installed, without written prior agreement of Atomix Productions.
Reproduction of this manual in full or in part with out the exp ress written permission from Atomix Productions is prohibited.
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Key features
- Two virtual decks
- Automatic beat matching
- Comprehensive mixer
- Audio/video effects
- Sampler
- Looping engine
- Real-time recording
- Webcasting support