On Facebook recently, my friend Mike asked me what my thoughts were regarding an NPR interview at gizmodo.com with A-Trak (turntablist extraordinaire and DJ for Kanye West) about the DJ software Serato. For those who don't know, Serato (technically Serato Scratch Live) is software that allows DJ's to manipulate digital audio files, such as mp3 and .wav, using turntables with special "timecoded" 12" vinyl records. Using this software means that a DJ can retain the feel of spinning vinyl while only bringing a very limited amount of gear: the Serato control box, 2 - 12" timecoded records and a laptop with as many tunes as the hard drive can handle. Here was my response:
"I think that Serato and other products like it, such as Traktor, are excellent tools in a DJ's arsenal. The option to not carry 100 lbs. of vinyl records to every gig is unparalleled. Also, as the article mentioned, you can trade music with other DJ's instantly with hard drives. The vinyl controllers still allow DJ's to manipulate the mix "old-school", as if they were using the actual records. All you have to do is bring your laptop and your set.
I personally like CDJ's (CD player turntables) myself. I have gotten used to them and like the feel of them. True, I have to carry a load of CD's with me, but it's just a personal choice.
That's what it really comes down to. There have been many discussions about how CDJ's and/or Serato are not the same and that those DJ's don't "keep it real". Well, everyone's entitled to their opinion and some just like to talk so they keep the impression of "keeping it real". All that matters in the end is that the music is delivered to the audience. That's the bottom line; that's what everyone showed up for in the first place, right? It doesn't matter what devices/tools that the DJ uses, it's all about the music."
I'd like to think that many DJ's feel the same way that I do, but just like I have a passion for collecting vinyl, many DJ's have a passion about only using turntables and records.
Just thought I'd share.
