The DJ Podcast » Videos

5 Laptop Optimization Tips for Digital DJs

Peter — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 03:17:48 +0000

Laptops these days have never been more powerful. With multicore processors, gigabytes of ram, and high resolution screens you can push your DJ software to its limits. With all that power you don’t want it to go to waste. This video covers 5 tips laptop optimization tips to make sure you get all of that power out of your laptop.

Our Tips

Close background applications and services – You don’t need to have Dropbox or an IM client taking up processing power during your mix. Close any other applications that may be running in the background alongside your DJ software of choice.
Update when necessary – Most software updates to DJ software fix small bugs and glitches. However, some update can also bring performance improvements. For example, the Traktor 2.1.1 update added support for multicore processors.
Keep your screen on – Most of the information a digital DJ needs during the mix is displayed on screen. Change your operating system’s power settings to prevent the screen from turning off. If need be, use a third-party program like Caffiene for Mac OSX to ensure that your laptop’s screen stays on.
Keep it cool – Prevent your laptop from overheating by ensuring that it has proper airflow. Place it on a laptop stand, like the Stanton Uberstand, if possible and remember to never place it on an insulating surface.
Plug it in – You don’t want your set cut short because your laptop shuts down due to lack of power. You may want to plug in your all-in-one soundcard/midi controller if you have the option.

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Seinnheiser HD202 DJ Headphones Review

Peter — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 23:18:02 +0000

In this video we take a look at the Seinnheiser HD202 DJ Headphones. Just because every DJ needs a pair of headphones to mix doesn’t mean that you have to shell out big bucks for your first pair. You can always upgrade to a more expensive pair of headphones later on if you want. The HD202s are a low cost pair of headphones that are marketed to DJs, but are they the right buy for a DJ on a tight budget? Watch our video review to find out!

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How to DJ with Traktor Pro 2: Part 7 – Get Loopy with Loops

Peter — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 07:15:47 +0000

Native Instruments made looping your tracks in Traktor Pro 2 really quick and easy. In this video tutorial we look at looping your tracks, editing the loop’s position and size, and saving your loops as hot-cues. This video features music from Loopmasters DJ Mixtools Groovetech Volume 1 sample pack.

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How to DJ with Traktor Pro 2: Part 6 – 3 Ways to use Sync

Peter — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 03:07:14 +0000

Sync is a core function of Traktor Pro 2. Using the sync function correctly will enable you to spend more time selecting the next perfect track, applying effects, or adding samples into your mix. In this video we look at 3 ways you can use the sync function in your mix:
1. Basic auto sync
2. Syncing a deck to the master clock
3. Syncing the master clock to a deck

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What’s New in Mixvibes Cross DJ 1.7.0

Peter — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 04:27:29 +0000

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In this video we look at some of the new features in the 1.7.0 update to Mixvibes Cross DJ. For more information on Cross DJ visit Mixvibes.com or find Cross DJ on the Apple App Store.

How to DJ with Traktor Pro 2: Part 5 – Create Basic Beatgrids

Peter — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 22:56:54 +0000

Now that you have analyzed your tracks it is time to create beatgrids. Beatgrids determine the location of beats in a track and are essential for using sync in Traktor Pro 2. This video walks through creating a basic beatgrid.

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How to DJ with Traktor Pro 2: Part 4 – Create and Save Playlists

Peter — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 22:10:45 +0000

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In this video we go over all you need to know about playlists in Native Instruments Traktor Pro 2. Learn how to create playlists, export them as webpages, organize the tracks you want to play in the Preparation Playlist, and see which tracks you have played in your History Playlist.

Traktor Pro 2.1.1 Update Overview

Peter — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 03:58:45 +0000

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In this video we look at some of the features in the new 2.1.1 update to Traktor Pro 2. You can download the update via the Service Center or on native-instruments.com. For the full list of what’s new check out the 2.1.1 Release Notes.

How to DJ with Traktor Pro 2: Part 3 – Importing and Analyzing your Tracks

Peter — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 20:24:33 +0000

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In this video we go over importing your tracks into Native Instruments’ Traktor Pro 2 and why you should analyze them after import. Check back soon for part 4 of of our How to DJ with Traktor Pro 2 series which will cover playlists inside of Traktor Pro 2.

Harmonic Mixing: Get Started Mixing in Key

Peter — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 21:59:42 +0000

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In this video we go over the basics of harmonic mixing, also called mixing in key. Harmonic mixing may seem daunting at first, but can actually be very simple if you use the right tools and track categorization. To begin, grab yourself a copy of Mixed in Key or visit Mixshare and begin keying your tracks. You can also key your tracks if you are more musically inclined. Once you’ve keyed your tracks, you can begin mixing tracks with compatible keys together. If your playing a track that is 1A for example, you can mix it with 12A, 2A, or 1B. For some more basic information, visit harmonic-mixing.com.