Mix Templates
In episode 012 I demonstrated how to automate a DJ mix in Ableton Live. One time-consuming aspect of this technique is applying effects and creating automation lanes. To save time, you can set up an empty mix template with the effects and automation already lanes in place. To create your mix template start a new project, switch to the arrangement view, and start adding your effects and automation lanes. When you’re finished, save the project and use it as a base for your mixes. If you want see how I have set my project up, you can download my Ableton Live Mix Template.
Record and Encode Your DJ Mix in Audacity
Audacity is a free audio-editing program that runs on Mac, Windows, and Linux. It’s lightweight interface and ease of use makes it a great program to record and encode your DJ mixes. Download the installer and LAME MP3 Encoder Binary for your operating system and install them. After installation, run Audacity and go into the preferences. Navigate to the “File Formats” on a Mac, or the “Libraries” on Windows, and locate the LAME library that you installed earlier. If Audacity does not automatically find the library navigate to /usr/local/lib/audacity on a mac, or the folder you installed the .dll to on Windows. When you’re ready to record your mix, hit the red recording button. Press stop when you are finished. Simply select “Export as MP3” on a Mac, or select MP3 after clicking “Export” on Windows, name your file and insert the appropriate metadata.