Why DJs use Serato and Rekordbox instead of Virtual DJ and DJay Pro 2 for Club Gigs 

I've been using VDJ since the 7 version and now 8.3 pro(paid for). I dj in various clubs, bars, lounges in NYC and I can go in and plug my laptop in and be ready to play. I love the fact that I can customize my colors, skins and buttons to my liking and comfort. I play videos at most of my gigs and I love the video functions in VDJ. I do weddings and private functions and the automix feature is beautiful. You can edit the fade in/out of each track of you needrd to. The karaoke feature is also great. I have serato and to be honest I don't use it. I have gotten looks from other djs when I open VDJ but once I start spinning they start asking questions about it. Ultimately it's like Apple vs Android and what you like.

Knowing how to use multiple systems is great, but you should not wait until you get to the venue to find out what they have. Either you work with a technical rider or you (at least) contact the promoter/venue to find out what they have in the booth. Dvs with turntables is my favorite setup and I can work with CDJs and a flash drive if needed, but I want to know which one I’ll be using in advanvce. VDJ gets a bad rep because they have always targeted beginners. You could download a free version so a lot of first time bedroom DJs would use it. Their philosophy and the look didn’t help either. And yes, I know you can change the skin, but first impressions stick with you. I’ll be trying out the full version of VDJ8 this year because I want to test and compare it to the rest.

I started out using virtual DJ. Everyone told me to switch to serato and I did. After a few months of using serato I switched back to virtual DJ. I think it's a much better program

I just started using VDJ and can say that I prefer it over Rekordbox and Serato. VDJ Stem EQ is an absolute marvel. It makes mixing so much simpler. The first day of using VDJ was tough but eventually I accustomed myself to the layout and started using Stems. By the end of the day my entire mixing style changed and I felt as if I leveled up. My only complaint is that the waveform rgb display is weak in VDJ when compared to Serato.

Uncle Terry, I use Djay Pro, it is compatible with most industry standard equipment, especially pioneer gear, just easy as plug and play, but this is a very interesting topic :).

Virtual DJ and absolutely love it !!! I paid $299 for full lifetime version. I've been using it since 2003. I should mention I'm mobile jock here in NYC with video screens and use a DDJ-SZ also on occasion use a Denon MC6000MK2. I do alot of video gigs and always use my own gear but this software works with literally everything even a Serato box or serato controllers plus tracktor and Recordbox devices. My son uses a Virtual DJ DVS Set up with Pioneer DDJ-S9 Reloop RP8000's turntables and Prefers Virtual over all the rest. Plus Virtual works with all DVS records and calibrates and adjust to all very well. I also have a Serato Pro license absolutely prefer Virtual DJ. I can agree with you that the standard skin that comes with virtual doesn't look as clean as Serato & Recordbox but it's what's under the hood that matters to me the most. I enjoy your videos and I'm glad you touched on this subject. I just feel that Virtual doesn't get the respect it should and it's an amazing piece of software. Thank you

I’m using farm simulator 2019 at the moment, Work greats with any type of equipment.

UPDATE!!! Even though my entire video was about CLUB situations, I have read a number of very "PASSIONATE" Virtual DJ people and because I'm an honorable man and want to give the most fair review of a product, I have bought Virtual DJ to test it out. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-PjBRkZvlATQ.html. My new video is up.

VirtualDJ 2021's stem controls are AMAZING! I tried out both VDJ and Serato at the same time, but the stem controls is a game changer. I can cut out the vocals early on a lyric heavy song then easily mix in the new song. Also, you can cut out the instruments, leaving just the vocals and the beat, just to change up the song a bit. Or you can take out all the music and just play the mostly bare vocals over a completely different beat. All of this live. And of course all this makes loops and samples even easier. Dont get me wrong, Serato is great too, and both now have almost all the same features...except VDJ has more customizable skins as far as I can tell and has the stem controls...which are features that I am sure many djs may not care about. By the way, I have been professionally djing since 1983 and I mix everything from rap/hiphop to EDM music...but lately I've been focused on trance and house. Now to address industry standard, or how most clubs/venues use a particular software like Serato. Just because more clubs or venues use a particular software, it doesn't make it the best software. Most business offices use Windows because PCs are affordable and come with Windows. But ask any high level IT guy and he will tell you that Linux/Unix based systems are the most stable and reliable .. which is why they are used on critical servers. Lots of DJ controllers come with Serato or Rekordbox license included, so it makes sense if a club or dj ends up using one of those programs. With any of the softwares out there, mixing is now easier with precise BPMs and the ability to easily beat match and sync, but what makes a dj a good dj is knowing how to play the right songs for the crowd THAT night/day and in some cases knows how to work/entertain the crowd. A smart dj will know how to use or at least familiarize themselves with the main softwares that they may run into.

Hey Cleveland, I began DJ'ing in the 70's with turntables, reel to reels and cassette tapes. When I discovered I could DJ with carrying so much, I was ecstatic. I did some research, and figured I would purchase Traktor. I was fine with that as a mobile DJ. I moved to Serato because I wanted a controller and the Denon looked right for me. I currently use Serato and have used Rekord Box because one of my partners has a Pioneer controller. I like all three softwares, but my preference is Serato.

As a beginner DJ, I switched from using Serato to djayPro just yesterday. I've yet to explore its limitations, but Spotify integration is absolutely killer for new DJs. I don't have the time or money to build up a music library, I just want to experiment with different tracks and sounds. The interface seems really good, too.

I started using VDJ by a chance. A legal license. Then I tried Serato and Rekordbox. Payed for both licenses too. Went back to VDJ and have absolutely no regrets.

I started out with buying VDJ and transitioned to Serato years ago for reasons you stated. Tried and hated Traktor but am very curious about Rekordbox. At the end of the day, the software won’t make the DJ.

Interesting thoughts and theories on the DJ software. I have been DJing for many years since technics 1200 mk2's were first available; I still have my original pair setup in working order. I must admit I don't really use them for anything more than playing music such listening and transferring classic vinyls etc to digital format. I first started using DJ controllers in 2008. In all honesty my first ever DJ controller was from a very entry-level brand called 'Hercules'. At the time I was using virtual DJ and I found that to be the Swiss army knife of all DJ programs (I also mapped tractor DJ software to the controller but found that to not have the correct functionality). I was DJing abroad at the time in Greece for six months and was fed up of going to nightclubs where the setups were substandard or the mixers would not work or various other hassles which hindranced my performance. This was before CDJs could facilitate USB sticks. the gentleman that I met over there put me onto the concept of controllers and virtual DJ and I never looked back. (Shout out to Darren Coates💯) I found virtual DJ and the basic controller setup was a very intuitive idea and I was one of the very few people who were using that particular method of DJ ing. I tried almost every software at the time and none of them could deliver what I was looking for I found that serato was very slow in development even many years after I abandoned that particular entry level set up that I had. I found that serato could not handle my enormous sound library and struggled to read my hard drive which was an external one. I also hated the fact that serato could not play FLAC files in it's early years. another thing I could not stand back then was the simple fact that I could not adjust and shape and tweak settings to my particular liking in serato. At the time, and still now virtual DJ has been able to deliver all of these things and handle my sound library. In all honesty I never ever rated serato after it got past the SL stage the SL integration of been able to use a vinyl deck and control things digitally was an amazing idea. Anything after that to do with DJ controllers and laptops I feel like serato did not pull through correctly and their lack of development and lack of understanding for what DJ is required at the time was off-putting. I purchased my first Pioneer controller as soon as it came out it was a ddj S1 (please do not confuse what I'm saying with sx1) The S1 as far as I know was the first pioneer DJ controller that was made available I still have it to this day in mint condition. That unit came with serato at the time and I find the software to be restrictive and it lacked imagination for things that I wanted to do. I was so disappointed as serato was pitched as a reputable industry standard company; so I spent hours remapping my controller to run the original virtual DJ software that I had. after months upon months of testing through trial and error I then managed to get it working but it was only half functional with the controller but even so that was enough for me to be able to manage my sound libraries accordingly which was a big issue for me and like I said serato struggled to handle my external hard drives without crashing. The next stage of my DJ controller history I then purchased a ddj sx1 as soon as it was available in the USA (even though I am from the U.K). I absolutely loved the controller and still have it to this day not in the best condition but still it works like a dream I have built up my reputation by using this controller with its amazing functionality at the time. Again this was another scenario where I received serato with the controller but decided to abandon it and realise that virtual DJ had come out with the correct mapping settings for it and made it almost 95% fully workable with the controller apart from the ribbon search would not work. In regards to record box as soon as it came out I downloaded the 30-day trial and absolutely loved the software so I cannot say a bad word against that software it works exactly how I want it to and I find it's appearance very smooth and it's functionality is brilliant as well. I love the fact that record box integrates with CDJs as I often have to do sets in clubs with Pioneer Nexus items and when it's a one hour set I will use the CDJs if it's a longer set maybe for 5/6 hours I will take my controller. Right now I am literally as we speak just about to purchase the ddj 800 as I need something a little more compact for my gigs abroad this year and I know that this will come with record box I am fully thinking of doing the switch to record box but also I will still have a genuine love for virtual DJ as I am one of the very few who actually bought the software way back in 2008 because I liked it's functionality and this is why I would never put down that program because it had so many feature from back then in 2008 and these features are only be made present now in DJ software. All of these companies such as serato record box have taken elements from virtual DJ to make their functionality better so I don't feel anybody can really criticize that company and program. one thing I will agree is from the outset I think that virtual.dj devalued itself because it was easy to download and anybody could have it so it kind of took the professionalism out of it and yes I do agree that the original appearance of it is absolutely dead! If you are thinking along the lines of functionality it is definitely one of the best programs because it can absolutely do anything and more. essentially it is all down to the user on how you use it I myself know how to mix from CDJs and vinyl decks so I know we are living in a world where people press sync and that is just the sign of the times. I'm not saying it's a good thing I'm not saying it's a bad thing I'm saying it's about delivering to your audience first and foremost. So to sum this up I would say that my advice to any DJ is do not follow the crowd just because somebody says a software is industry standard work out what you want to use that software for and develop your style and applied to any software whichever software enables you to freely deliver your style is the one for you as long as you can have fun and the fun element is within your usage of that software use that software to its full capability. I myself had to fly the flag for virtual DJ for many years despite criticism and despite other DJs looking down their nose at me. the thing is if we cast our minds back there was a time when a vinyl DJ would look down their nose at a CD DJ and then a CD DJ would then look down their nose at someone who would use a controller. In a nutshell just concentrate on making your audience happy and forget about trying to show and prove to anyone we need to understand that yes art is involved in the craft of DJing but essentially now it's about making sure your audience is happy and creating a experience and a journey for your crowd to enjoy Massive shout to all hardworking DJs across the globe let's put the love and fun back into the music 🔊👊🏾💯💯

I just couldn't get into Serato. I tried to like it but it didn't work for me so I switched back to Virtual Dj.

I am from South Africa. Been using Traktor for about 5 years now. Recently upgraded to Traktor 3. Never had issues with gear in clubs. I have an A6 soundcard and timecode CD's/vinyl, so I can play on virtually any mixer, CDJ and turntable combo. Traktor 3 works with all soundcards now, as long you have the timecode CD or vinyl. Traktor works in HID with CDJ900 and all CDJ2000s models. Serato is more expensive than Traktor locally. I sometime use thumb drive with Rekordbox analysed files but Traktor I use exclusively.

I had downloaded VDJ about 9 years ago when it was free on their website and now I use Serato mainly and sometimes Rekordbox. This debate to me sounds like the Apple vs Android phone debate where a lot of people think Apple is better because it's simple and right out the box works, meanwhile top of the line Androids are great you just have to know how to set everything up. I haven't touched VDJ in about 4 years and didn't even know it could be customized. Also if DJing is about being creative, why would anybody even want to follow a standard? "Industry standard" setups is actually a limitation more than anything. But after all these hours into Serato Pro and Rekordbox I probably won't ever go back to VDJ

I own VDJ, Serato and Traktor. I’ve been using VDJ since 2004 and I think it’s superior to Serato and Traktor. Rekordbox I don’t know about mainly because their hardware sucks. Expensive and bad soundcards. I know everybody is talking about ”industry standard” but why? They are Ok but as I said overpriced. VDJ works with the most hardware, even with Pioneer DJM’s and CDJ’s, Rane and so on. I can agree with your statement that the default skin is awful but seriously look at Serato, that’s awful. And keep in mind that Serato, Rekordbox had ripped a lot from VDJ. And why are DJ’s so not experimental? If I don’t get Pioneer I can’t do my thing, buhuu! Today I’m going for Denon Prime. Why? More priceworthy, better sound-quality and no cheap plastic. So I try to move forward, use different software and hardware to develop myself. But that’s me! What everybody else does is up to them. But that crap about you must use Serato or Pioneer to be a ”real DJ” is so much bullshit!

I’m a beginner DJ but I’ve been practicing almost everyday and exploring what’s out there. I agree with all of your points. Virtual DJ does have a ton of features and they have come a long way. But they’ve never been able to separate them selfs to have the PAID product be recognized as top tier software. 95% of all events I’ve been to here in the NYC area either private or club settings all run Serato with either CDJs, Controllers or turntables. I think Serato even with its short comings is successful because of the less is more approach.

The problem is not the softwares. Its the people that are doing it not for the geniuine love/passion/art of djing. And calling themselves dj..and fooling people to get gigs and bombing it. A true dj will always shine and it shows

I play for my own pleasure and love of the music in my back room, I have a Pioneer controller and I use Rekordbox.

I’ve been using VirtualDJ for years now, bought in early 2000. I’m not a club DJ so I really couldn’t speak to that but... VirtualDJ does it all and is user friendly. To switch would be rearranging my library and techniques. Serato is good but I’m not switching because the “Jones” are using it, it has to more than just that. The look of it in comparison to Serato in my opinion is just different, buttons may be in different locations but are there. Be more specific, what are the real differences aside from The Jones use it, clubs use it, are there real performance issues?

What up Cleveland Terry. I purchased the VDJ years ago but I also use Serato. Both a great programs. Keep your videos coming. Thank you 🙏🏻

Look, Its not rocket science... If people learnt to use their ears and just did some preparation then software is just not necessary. Take a USB with bounced out playlists from Rekord box in any club in Sydney and your good to go, its pretty much industry standard here... If they don't have decks compatible with reordbox just have USB's with your music on it in folders, if the decks don't take USB's just have backup CD's in the car... If you can mix with your ears then any of these are a solution! :)

Interesting topic. I have used virtual dj for so many years and i mastered it so well and i don't see any thing wrong with it. I do agree with you on serato it's actually the best due to so many things you can do with it. I'M CURRENTLY USING SERATO, BUT I'M VERY GOOD WITH ALL 3 SOFTWARE VIRTUAL DJ , SERATO AND REKORD BOX. You cannever hear the difference when i'm djing. I BELIEVE IT'S ALL ABOUT HOW GOOD AND CREATIVE YOU ARE AS DJ

I've been using Vietual DJ for about a Decade now... started with Tracktor before that... had Serato le for a minute... didnt care for it.. I've been a DJ since 1999, and doing audio since 92 (middle school...but still!) Virtual DJ had worked for me not only with DJing Wedding and Events, but I do Karaoke now because of it, plus I've used it for corporate events for music instead of Playback Pro when I can just play strait. I use Auto Mix feature at weddings when I only need to play background stuff during during dinner. I use the iPad to control the software remotely when I cant be near the laptop or I need to stand in a better spot to make announcements or just talk to the crowd. Virtual DJ is the truth.... Serato is very much a turntablist software

I use Virtual DJ 8 and i love it. Its pretty good, I also change the skin on it so its not so (Virtual DJ Default). Virtual Dj has its own DJ Pool so you can download Any clean, Dirty song for on the spot requests (if you don't have the song) as well as extended intros to songs for mixing all for 9.99 a month!!! Ive tried Serato and I personally don't like it because they analyze House BPMs (128) to 90 so thats weird. I DJ great on Virtual DJ and I've used CDJs with the program as well. Serrate does have a new update where you can play songs on Soundcloud so thats pretty great but I prefer Virtual over Serato

“YOUR ENTIRE CRAFT IS.......CREATIVITY!!!!!!!” Yes Yes Yes LET THE DJ SAY.....”AMEN”

Well said. I think at the end of the day, like many, I started on Virtual DJ which back then was and still is more readily available (Legal or otherwise), and easy to use for learning, but once I really got into it and switched to Serato, I couldn't switch back. Virtual DJ is ok, but I think they just try to cram too much into the software, and is currently IMO used mostly by bedroom DJs whereas if you wanna go pro as far as DJ'ing goes, Serato DJ is a no-brainer. Over the years they've perfected the software, adding features every now and again, but still managed to keep it simple and allow you to focus on the basics i.e. mixing.

You couldn't be so wrong about VDJ features vs serato features. And the points you make about VDJ is so pre 2010. 1. I dont use the cracked version 2. I've been a DJ for 40yrs and currently have my own live mix show on a traditional analog radio station. 3. I will I would agree that most "club" only DJs are forced use serato. However not many DJ I know travel to clubs in Vegas or La. This argument is so played since 99% of the worlds DJ DO NOT play in club no where near LA, NYC or Vegas. Nor do they the desire DJ in clubs. 3. Finally VDJ do have far better feature "options" that allow DJs to be more creative than Serato. Therefore in conclusion, if the "majority" of us DJ have little desire to DJ in LA or Vegas why would want to spend time on outdated DJ software like serato. BTW.... I can change the skin on the VDJ skin to match my mixer, controller or whatever I use.

Virtual dj is my best option....serato, I got it🤷🏿‍♂️....that's it🤣🤣🤣 pioneer is based on Virtual dj...no glitches....serato still not worth my time...but I use it if need be.😬

I've been djing since 1986. It was 1200s up until the mid 90s. Then Mix Meister up until 2007. The Serato and Since 2015 most locations I go to use Virtual DJ. Most of the Pubs in Canada use Virtual DJ. A huge emphasis on a video djing. My experience with video djing has increased alcohol and drink by 500% versus audio djing. When I play in the US: Chicago, NY, LA & Vegas, yeah its all Serato, but I sneak in my Virtual DJ with the Numark ns6ii. Terry thank you so much for your excellent reviews as a whole. Anotehr key feature on VDJ that Serato and Rekordbox have yet to have is a column for playcount. This helps to see which tracks have been most commonly played back. As well as a playlist history from the last 24 hours to the last 24 months. this also helps when a DJ is taking over the set to see what was already played. As of rmy opinion on the matter; I found that most Serato Users are apple users who also have matching Ikea furniture. Again just my opinion. LOL Thank you again for an excellent review.

To me it doesn't matter the software you choose. A real DJ can do well on any software and gear ;)

A true DJ 'll focus on the functionality, stability and performance of software. Not interface! These guys put a lot of work into this software and deserve some respect. Forget their marketing strategy! Atomix started from nothing to something. Like someone said earlier, the interface is customisable. Which other software like SDJ others don't do. It's like saying windows or Mac OS is shit just cos the default wallpaper or screen saver (which is customisable) does not suit you! A true DJ focuses on functionality and stability of software not interface. After all there DJ veterans here who learned the art the hard way with harware only (don't know if you 're one of them). In that case they 'll say all software DJs are shit??? PLS educate DJs to focus on the true art and being good at it and use as many software as possible to be versatile, not all these bickering, fanboyism and ranting! As far as am conscerned you could be paid to do this or on purpose to attract attention and comments like this to keep your channel busy and of course make some $$$ 😂🤣. I only started DJing in 2012 not here to compete but focused on getting better at it cos I love it and enjoy myself while doing it. I currently use whatever software I run into cos you never know when you 're going to need it (SDJ and VDJ so far), starting rekordbox next month when I buy the licsence. Am ashamed that some top dawgs I look up to can descend this low just to earn attention! Speaking of industry standard, turntable vs cdjs which is No 1? These 're all behind the scene stuff with company's position in the industry as suggested by another comment here, which encompasses financial strength, stakeholders, marketing strategy and network. Pls educate us right to be well informed and make good choices, not turn us to zombies to keep walking on one direction just cos everybody else is doing the same!

This is a great discussion. My final point to all DJS is that in a few decades there will be no r very few DJS just MCs. The current trend with software is automation and they are heading where software will be able to mix scratch and add effects they are halfway there. All the club will need is the play list and an Mc to hype the crowd. I'm a DJ but I'm not worried my career will be done by then but that's where we heading . They will moves us all to controllers and eventually we won't really be needed ..enjoy the ride while it lasts

I tried to switch to Serato because it seemed like the "standard" and it was nothing but a nightmare with videos, which is what I mostly play. It wouldn't play all the videos smoothly and some of them wouldn't play at all. After a couple of hours of trying to fix it, I gave up and went back to VDJ. It always work flawlessly even with old video formats and that's all that matters to me. I live in LA and the reality is most clubs don't have any DJ software waiting for DJs because the DJs usually bring in their own laptops and use whatever they want.

For me, being standard does not mean mandatory. Good video, good job. I use virtual DJ since I started mixing with the computer and controller. I really like the virtual DJ, he provides me with everything I need. serato is also very good, but I prefer virtual DJ, especially now with new functions, as always, being a pioneer.

Using Virtual Dj 8.3! Really good.

I have- serato- VDJ- Traktor- I tend to use more Serato- I own my VDJ- I bought maybe 8 years ago- I own it- I n reality- I believe VDJ is very powerful and it keeps on getting stronger and stronger- Serato has become this club(Only acceptance) in which it has been accepted and many DJ's think that by having or using Serato- you are top of the crop- Now with 2021 VDJ and other things it can do with multiple cameras- its a hands down- If you are a sync'r or not- it does not matter- its all about how you manage to put the songs in its perfect sequence- You can always turn off any modes in VDJ- I seen some real great dj's using VDJ-

I use VDJ in my room to practice in my room because it's so easy to work and understand by far the most user friendly. I do however have a rekordbox software as well but only ever use it to sync my tracks so I can play on CDJs at clubs. Your points are correct about VDJ in this video, I would say other than that it looks ugly but personal preference I guess. As a casual Virtual DJ is the best by some distance, great for home DJing but unfortunately it isn't really compatible with most CDJs as you mentioned.The only negative on VDJ is that the pitch slider is 45bpm either way so as a techno DJ it's literally impossible to match up the bpms without pressing sync (there might be a way to change the sensitivity but I can't see it 😂). Rekordbox is an absolutely confusing piece of shit which I completely hate and would never use or recommend to anyone only to sync tracks with. One interesting difference which you didn't mention was how different the mixing is with VDJ and pioneer. When you take out the low EQ on VDJ the volume is pretty much the same whereas with pioneer you take out the bass and it's very quiet. I have to mix differently over the softwares because of this. They both have their negatives and positives doing this, on VDJ u can take bass in and out seemlessly and can get much more creative with drops. However it's much harder to mix for some reason because of this. Vice versa with pioneer. Good video man

Just landed on this video while surfing,...I had to chime in,... I see this post is a bit old..... Virtual DJ Pro has more functionality ands versatility than Serato and is much easier to use. You do not have to buy expansion packs to play video. In my opinion,... I used Serato before I switched. I am happy with the switch!

VDJ here! I am a wedding/event DJ. Nothing can touch VDJ in that world. On the flip side, I can walk into any club and use their equipment and pug and play. You can also choose from the hundreds of skins created or make your own. VDJ is super easy to fit to your style. Plus you pay for it once and that is it. Updates for life! I do use the Automix feature for cocktail/dinner at events. Very useful for that. At weddings/events you have other things you need to worry about during those times. Anyone who uses Automix for anything else than that is not a professional. Virtual DJ for life!

i have both... I used VDJ for years with a PC and then a couple of years ago I moved to Serato with a Mac, and I would have to say...it really doesn't matter, use what makes you comfortable...at the end you are you making someone's day by playing music how and what software is not important.

I use Virtual DJ at clubs connecting 2 CDJs directly to my laptop for over a year now. I like your video man and it's entertaining :)

For beginners DJ Pro with Spotify Premium is a good start. And will cost you around $15 a month for subscription service. If you are more on the Pro Side than Serato is pretty much the standard along with RB on thumb drives.

I use Virtual DJ on my home setup and Serato in the Lounge I DJ at every Friday in Baltimore.

I am a promoter and The majority of the DJs I work with use virtual DJ….. The guys who want to look like DJs use a Sarato…… Which is crazy because you can use it but it doesn’t make you a better Dj

Greetings Terry, First-time sub. We are neighbors, my friend. I'm from Chicago and have some awesome House Heads in your neck of the woods. I saw your second video about VDJ before I saw this one. I am glad you did the second video and tested VDJ for yourself. What you said in this video is true. If you want to play outside your bedroom/apt, you better know the standard equipment clubs and venues are using. Before I start DJing, I was a blogger. I will write about House music and attend events here in the Chi. In addition, I ran 2 online radio show as host and broadcaster. My closest friends are DJs and Producers themselves. My mentor is a DJ and was my co-host of the show I currently running. He had to step down and took over as DJ, and host. When I begin, I used the Pioneer WEGO 4 with Virtual DJ. I loved the software because it was user-friendly and easy to navigate. It helped me a great deal as a beginning DJ. I got the controller and system in 2016. I kept it until last year. If I wanted to be taken seriously, I had to step up my game. I own the Pioneer DDJ 400 with a full license Rekordbox system. I am still working my way around the system. It helps to know it because, in the clubs in Chicago, Pioneer CDJs and mixer are the standard. You better know it. Since I didn't learn by way of turntables, I have to prove that the skills of the DJ matter and not the equipment. It pays to know what others are using and adapt accordingly but if you don't have the basics down, you might as well pack up and go home. TLM is correct! Always know what the venue owner or promoter DJ equipment is used before you agree to a gig. To all my beginners, I would recommend using Virtual DJ as your first DJ software. It will allow you to understand the ins and out of DJing. Once you feel you are ready to upgrade, do it.

I think Virtual DJ is amazing for its features. Mostly I love the fact it has SHOUTcast broadcast built in so it can be setup easily for doing online radio. It works with almost all controllers - though I haven't got it to work with my DDJ-1000 but it does with my DDJ-SR. It also mixes video with no need to buy an expansion pack. Yea it's a bit silly looking compared to the others but the reason it's still around must be its dependability. I'm sure it's not making money when ppl crack it. Ppl are still buying and using

I'm an old school vinyl dj and I'm saddened the word "software" is even associated with dj'ing. I know, I know . Progress. But still.

I have been working as a Radio and Club DJ since 1978, on the highest level in small markets (Portland, Maine) and one Major Market (Chicago). I started using Rane and Numark Mixers with 2 Technics 1200s. When the trend went digital, I went with Trakktor and Numark Mixdeck. I switched to Denon MCX-8000 and Serato a few years ago. I retired from 35 years of Commercial Radio in 2019 and I got rid of everything. I missed mixing, so I bought a Pioneer DJ-DDJ SB3. I didn't like it, so I returned it to Guitar Center and got a Denon MC-4000. I love this controller with Serato. I just downloaded Virtual DJ (FREE) and I like, but not as much as Serato.

I'm using Virtual DJ to mix music videos. It plays any video. You can make videos with your own music. Or any songs with your own visuals. I'm seeing a whole new way of djing, like a vj but with music videos and visuals. That's what I'm enjoying. I'm very new to this digital djing. I make beats and now I want to explore this.

You are not well informed. Recordbox also has automix and sync. Serato has sync also. In case you are also not aware sync does not work 90% of the time. So if you are relying on sync or automix then it does not matter what software you are using, you will suck. The technology has not gotten to the point where software can realistically replace a DJ for a dance-floor. Maybe for a lounge setting but not for beatmixing to keep a dancefloor packed by knowing what to play next and knowing how to transition in open-format mixing. I have used Serato, Virtual DJ and Recordbox. All 3 software basically do the same thing. Recordbox gives you more control with settings and midi mapping over Serato. Virtual DJ gives you even more control with scripts, settings and midi mapping. The problem with Virtual DJ is perception; it was known as a software for amateurs but it is long past that reputation for it's paying users. The problem is the owners of the software have done nothing to change that perception over so many years and keep advertising gimmicky features like scratch dna. When it comes to audio mixing all 3 software are comparable. When it comes to Video mixing, Virtual DJ is way ahead of Serato and Recordbox. If you don't video mix and never used Virtual DJ then you wouldn't be aware of its capabilities. If I was just mixing Audio, I would prefer Tracktor because I love all the effects that can be done. Second choice would be Serato for it's compatibility. If I was mixing Video; first choice would be Virtual DJ second would be Recordbox.

I Dj using just iTunes and windows media player.

VDJ for over 10 years. Bought and paid for and have played clubs, bars and weddings. Video mixing was a big selling point for me.

I used Traktor for about 7 years because I thought (and still think) that it had maybe the best sounding and most usable effects and features for the type of sets I wanted to do, which at the time were all my own self-produced tracks. So I wanted to have something I could get weird with, and didn’t really care about “club standard” anything, as most gigs I got were at places where you had to bring your own everything. Also at the time, the only viable pro apps seemed to be Serato and Traktor, but Traktor’s sound and hardware integration pushed it over the top for my needs. Also, Rekordbox was essential back then as well as now, for if I got a gig where they already had gear, but It wasn’t even used for DJing then, it was only for organizing your music library. However, lots of things have changed since then, I kind of got too busy to keep up with booking shows, blah blah blah, life happened. After a few years not paying attention to the industry, and on a whim I downloaded Djay Pro on my phone. This was in 2020 right around quarantine times, and just before spotify gave DJs the finger. So the idea of having all of Spotify to DJ with was a revelation to me! And I discovered that djay did everything Traktor did for me, but I could try out mixes right on my phone if I wasn’t able to access my gear for whatever reason. The fx were surprisingly good quality, and it appeared to have all the features I would ever need and then some. Long story even longer, I’m fully using Djay pro AI as my main software now, and just got a Reloop Beatpad 2, and could not be happier! BUT, I’m not playing gigs currently, and for that it’s…90-95% there? There are some infrequent but still unacceptable stability issues and connectivity could be more solid, so I’m hoping they get ironed out, but considering I’m still using it(now I have Tidal for streaming) despite this should give you an idea of how much I like it. I’ve used Serato as well, but I just can’t get into it. I know, It doesn’t make sense to me either, because I know it’s the most stable and most widely compatible software out there(besides maybe virtual DJ, but I agree with you about the UI- I can’t bear to look at it, lol) but for some dumb reason I just can’t vibe with it. If I used some specific Serato hardware I’d probably be down, as long as it was Pro and not Lite. Anyway, that’s my way too long story!

I personally I like serato and always been using serato .. but I got to be honest to you . I have a lot of respect for virtual DJ. Because the show me the way to become a DJ .. and I think it's a really good software to be honest video mixing and all the stuff..

Virtual DJ IS THE BEST FOR ME ALSO MORE EXPENSIVE THAN OTHER SOFTWARES

I use virtual dj and can say one thing, i learn & love all you youtubers! I watch eveyone teach using serrato mostly but when i like what i see or hear, i open virtual dj software options and make the same changes it works! To me it's just getting in to the settings is different! But i figure it out!

I've tried them all and own them all, but still trying to make my peace. This was very helpful and insightful. Thaks!

I guess people need to feel a part of something. I will never understand the war that plagues just country over DJ software. Serato scratch live worked well with the hardware that it had. Serato DJ in my opinion is a direct rip-off or copy of virtual DJ. All of the features that are in virtual DJ are now in serato DJ. and now you can use that software with a bunch of pieces of hardware just like virtual DJ. I have all three on my computer virtual DJ rekordbox and serato DJ. all of which are legal copies and not hacked versions! but one thing I can say is I have never ever ever going to a place and my virtualdj did not work. Virtual DJ works with the scratch live boxes time code all of the pioneer equipment I've used and hundreds of other controllers. I also know that the architecture is way different such as it loads the entire song to memory. if you pull out your thumb drive after you loaded your tracks you'll still play them or if you pull your thumb drive out accidentally while the check is playing it will continue. In the event you have a hard drive become dislodged while playing it will not be a disaster.but this argument runs the same for Android iPhone windows Mac etc people feel like they need to pick sides. I've been in it for over 20 years and I still get people try and tell me what computers the best computer based on advertisement same thing with DJ software. I can say I have road-tested all three softwares including tractor as well.

Serato DJ love it, its standard for me

Love this and am glad you’re open to the comments regarding the different software. I have a background in DJing dating back to the early 90s coming up on two tech turn tables and a DJM 600. I am also an old school Chicago house head who thrived with my fellow speaker huggers doing basement sessions in college. Spinning vinyl of Frankie Knuckles, Felix Da Housecat, Bad Boy Bill, etc. I still have my vinyl but as the technology got better, the DJ pool got way bigger. I still DJ sets though admittedly it is mostly deep house these days. That being said, for the past 15 years I have also run the largest mobile DJ company in Colorado. Weddings, corporate events, NFL tailgate parties for the Broncos and Anheuser-Busch. I am also lucky enough to be the DJ for all of the Miss Hooters Pageants along the front Range. I still do what I love (in one form or another) and get paid for it. Just like you, this is just my opinion. If you are a mobile DJ, doing The things I just mentioned, virtual DJ is by far the best software you can ask for. The playlists and online availability are amazing! However, if you are a club/festival DJ who is juggling and beat matching, Serrato, without question is industry standard for a reason.

I am a salsa DJ, which mixing doesn't happen and I have been using Virtual DJ for years because most of my files were WMA. However, I changed controller from Numark to Roland DJ 505 which has Serato PRO. The problem is that serato PRO does not recognize WMA files and had to convert all my files from WMAs to MP3s. Not an easy task! For this particular reason I like Virtual DJ over other DJ software.

At the end off the day serato DJ is more involved in the DJ community then virtual DJ

Dude at the end of the party It's about the people you be playing for.

I'm going through putting all my music from CDs mainly on to USB And I will be buying the New Denon prime 4 or pioneer RX2 My issue is Which is the choice for me serato or rekordbox been a turntable DJ for years so I really don't know which to choose

I agree completely. The closer to the top of club or public events you get, the narrower your choice of equipment will be, unless you wanna bring a whole booth of gear yourself, pissing everyone else off. The Hip Hop/Scratch/ Vinyl culture i the U.S. made you more inte computers in the booth using DVS than in Europe, certainly Sweden where I'm from. Here turntables/vinyl were gone over night in '93/'94 and almost every DJ switched to CD's and in the 90's Denon dual CD-players ruled. I was saved by the Pioneers 500-series or I would have quit like many did, because the conversion were very costly and took a lot of time, like starting all over again. That said, in the 2000's, we were used to hardware and the transformation to using USB-sticks were pretty comfortable as most of us already had the music on a computer to burn CD's and for backup. This time it was only a matter of spending a few hours copying the tracks to a USB-device. Later, as Pioneer quickly became standard in the 2000's, analyzing the tracks in Rekordbox was the next small step to take. So this is the story for us who's been around since the 80's, and we pretty much around still today. If not as Dj's, we're engaged in club life otherwise. Up until now, controllers has been seen as a stepping stone only, and when time come to get in to the clubs, you get yourself stand alone gear and leave the computer at home. Very few places here appreciate you touching or disconnecting anything in the booths, and when someone does, it's usually the least experienced guys that does it and things break, creating hatred towards laptop DJ's in general. Now, i know there's a bunch of very experienced Dj's in Sweden that actually use DVS and are very comfortable bringing their own gear and setting up everything, leaving the clubs gear untouched, but they are in the few. I'm out there playing almost 200 days/year and I've only met a handfull of DJ's using anything else but Rekordboxed USB's to go with the club gear, but doing DJ workshops, I see a lot of young up'n'coming DJ's using controllers and it's gonna be interesting to see how that affects how the booths in the clubs are planned and built in the near future. When CD's took over the booth quickly became half in size, and when USB's took over, the area for holding the CD case quickly disappeared. Now, there's often no place or very little for even your mobile phone and headphones to fit in the booth, bringing any other gear a hazard, to say the least. But, still, if you go to Sweden for a gig, bring your Rekordboxed USB's to be on the safe side :) .

Lmbo... Ur getting every VDJ pissed off in the world. Get it Claveland. I think all us over 20 year Djs know. Serato is the the best and closes it gets to using real records. Team Serato since 2003.

I’m a longe, club, corporate event DJ. I use Serato 80% of the time and RB (thumb drives) the other 20%. I do also play video and I use Serato video. I’ve also been seeing more clubs providing the Pioneer SZ controller. As far as technology, I’ve used the Denon Prime Kit M a couple of times and it’s fantastic. I’m hoping Denin gets more traction in the clubs.

Hello. I have the Denon Prime 2 and Mixstream. I'm waiting for Serato to integrate with both of these controllers. For now.. I'm using VDJ for both controllers. This is why VDJ is so awesome!

Hi from the UK. I use PCDJ Dex 3 It Is amazing for Video, I swapped Up from Virtual DJ Pro 7 and 8 to this Program. Keep making great Vids.

I'm a professional full-time club and mobile dj. Just paid off my house completely in 2016 with the money I make from DJing. I use Virtual DJ Pro 8. Lumping Virtual DJ with DeeJay Pro is wrong. DeeJay Pro is a software that controls Spotify (a streaming service) and has very limited features. That's not professional software, however, Virtual DJ is. Your points about Virtual DJ are not correctt. It's hard to speak about something that you have little to no knowledge of, and for that I will overlook the ignorant Virtual DJ comments. I have both Serato and Virtual DJ and for me, Virtual DJ is much better. I do agree that the default skin of VDJ is ugly which is why I don't use it. I use a different skin.

Just purchased my first controller. Pioneer ddj 400. I'm a mobile DJ in south Africa and do not play in clubs. I also do not do fancy mixes as the music variety does not allow for that. I have virtual DJ that I have grown accustomed to, but nervous for using rekordbox.. thanks for your review.

Moved from Traktor to Rekorbox. Used to used VDJ Years ago before investing in my first pieces of gear. Traktor Kontrol X1 mk2 + Z1 + Audio 2. soundcard. Now it's a DDJ-400 with a Mackie Mix 8 and CDJs in club and festival environments. In South Africa you'll rarely find anything outside of the pioneer range of gear. Small bars and clubs are even buying XDJ-RX3s or XZ as their main setups.

Same debate in the 90’s with mixers. Should I use the all time favorite Numark or should I switch to the highly marketed Rane. For the longest time most clubs back then stayed with a Numark mixer paired with Technics 1200’s & very seldom Rane mixers. But then Mid 90’s came with big marketing pushing Rane & Vestax mixers. So the debate began which mixer is better. I used to get down with a 19” Numark DM 1200 with Technics 1200’s in D.J. Coffins. I knew D.J.s in the 80’s who got down with Pyramid, Gemini & Radio Shack mixers. It’s in all how you use your tools. It boils down to what fits your needs. I always carry a back up controller if I can’t use their set up & I know how to set up & hook up to sound systems. I used a Numark Mixtrack Pro & VDJ at a venue & rocked the house. The resident D.J. Was clowning me at first but he had to follow up to my set & he had Serato. We were cool after my set until the owner came up to me asked me to come back and headline a nite that D.J. Wasn’t there. I don’t conform to any mold. I carried Vinyl for a lot of years and thank God for D.J. Software cause my back was killing me lol. With todays technology your not just stuck with the “Clubs” setup, so have your own back up plan, but you better rock the house ‘cause they won’t call you back. I’ve seen D.J.s with an all high end Pioneer set up, some rocked it & some didn’t. Anybody can push buttons but not all are live remixers. Be true to yourself. Who cares what people think. Rock what you got & keep the crowd moving. BTW, much love & respect to all D.J.s. VDJ & DJ Pro for life-

I retired from DJing a couple years ago. I decided put together my favourite gear at home. 1200s, MP2016 and Serato. Been playing lots of house on vinyl. That was industry standard for a lot of my career. I'm trying to relive those days and been having lots of fun with it. Thanks for the videos!

I use VDJ (yes, I bought it) and it is all I know from personal experience (and I love it). From what I can tell, comparing VDJ to Serato is a little like comparing Apple to Windows. Apple is very good at offering you a consistent experience, easy to use and stylish. The price you pay for that is less control over how the system looks and works. Windows on the other hand gives you all the options, but you have to deal with installing drivers etc. VDJ makes my setup possible: I use a MC7000 and a Launchpad on the side, and I programmed all buttons on the launchpad myself to do what I want them to, because I don't want to touch my mouse when spinning music. How cool is that? At the end of the day our softwares are tools to get the job done, use whatever works for you and keep it real. Imagine two carpenters fighting over what brand of hammer to use...

I have been using both Virtual DJ and Serato Pro. I've also done gigs with only turntables, a mixer, and a few crates of club-bangers. I personally like Serato because it made things easier for me efficiently. But, it doesn't matter what software or set-up you use. To put it in a generic cliche... whatever floats your ⛵😋

This is a really informative video. I was doing some spring cleaning and found my old Numark DJ2Go that comes with Virtual DJ, and my old Numark Mixtrack which comes with Traktor. I found this video trying to see which one I should try learning but now with all this information about Serato and Rekordbox I might have to look further into those haha. Thanks!

About 8 years now of mobile djing, vdj all the way, works with Denon prime 4, close my laptop and have a 10 inch display still working

Hey mate, I just stumbled across your channel, I've spent the last two hours going over your vids, informative and interesting..Although I mostly mix vinyl (the last 26 years), I think the whole digital thing is adding a new take on DJing (yes, I'm very late to the party when it come to digital DJing). Consider me a new sub...Hi from Australia....

I got into DJing around the time Serato started to become popular for club setups (SL1 days). At the clubs, old DJs were still mixing with crates of CDs while the younger DJs were using Serato. Once in a while, you had to share the DJ booth with other DJs and whenever a DJ came with Virtual DJ, we used to cringe because the DJ booth would be cluttered due having to connect 2 separate platforms. Virtual DJ could be better than Serato, but it was not a good look if a DJ showed up to the club gig with Virtual DJ. The image they gave off was “Bedroom DJ that somehow got booked at the club.” And if you showed up to a club gig with Virtual DJ and a computer mouse, forget it because it definitely looked like you don’t belong at a club and nobody took you serious except the promoter who was probably buddy-buddy with the DJ using Virtual DJ.

Im a rekordbox kinda guy. I love the simplicity of the software and how easy it was to migrate from traktor/serato to Rekordbox. Love the pioneer brand. I support them whole heartedly

Ive been djing for years, started with turntables, then CD's to minidisc, now mp3, but I use Serato and sometimes Djay pro. I'm in the market to purchase a new controller, the Pioneer DDJ-1000SRT DJ Controller for Serato, just wanted to be clear on what's the best software to use with it, and this video helps with my decision, thanks for the info.

I have used VDJ for 10 years or so. I am very happy, however, the newer versions with Stems and Video functions required me to update to a more expensive faster laptop with dedicated video card. I now have several laptops and pioneer decks because of the progression of feature advancements.

I'm a beginner DDJ, use to DJ with WAX back in the 80's, getting back into things cause my wife says I need a winter hobby, so I picked me up a DDJ SB3 and Algoriddim DJay Pro2, it's taking some getting use to, but I've managed to get going without much frustration.

I started using Virtual dj but felt like I wasn't in total control of the mp3s. It is nice for video mixing though I agree with that. I have been using Serato Pro and have been very happy beat mixing audio and video. I have not used recordbox yet but would like to try it out. I have a daughter that wants me to teach her to beat mix with Serato but I told her I want her to experience vinyl mixing first then dive into Serato. And I really wish automix and sync didn't exist at all. It's kind of like the stand alone beatkeepers years ago. Looks cool that's about it. Good video.

I used virtual Dj just to do quick mixes and get them posted. I didn’t have equipment then so I did everything by keyboard on that program but when it comes to djing I use usb drives at the clubs and I plan on buying Serato and a Dj controller for new mixes at home to push out better quality and creativity

Learnt everything about DJing on VDJ back in 2012 and when I first touched a controller (Pioneer Sx2) I instantly felt at home. Still create my playlists on VDJ before playing/recording on decks.

Hi Terry. I've been a DJ for around 30 years. I've seen Music , Dances, Fashion, and DJ equipment change over the years. To get to the point I've used Most if not all the equipment and software available to DJ's. I've noticed something about the modern trend.. Correct me if I'm wrong.. DJ's used to come together because of the music before.. However now it seem that we're separated by something as trivial as Software.. I've used them all PROFESSIONALLY.. They all have their own glitches.. However you must realize that if you're in a Mobile DJ environment, you should have trained to use Most if not all software available so that there won't be any surprises when you're out there.. Suppose the CDJ's or Controllers break down or malfunction in the middle of your session? What would you do? That's why VIRTUAL DJ IS considered among the INDUSTRY STANDARD. If you controller malfunctions.. Pull out the usb and you can use just the laptop. Why do you think controllers are now coming stand alone.. The industry is preparing for these issues. The Industry is sometimes monopolized by trying to make compatibility a problem with most equipment. So what would you say about people that use MIXX software..It's Absolutely FREE also compatible with most software and as improvements are made ... We'll just see what happens.. The industry is changing and as Vrtual DJsaid.. they allow you to expand your creativity.. Through it's many improvements you're even able to Make your own PRODUCTIONS. so please don't bash any company as some are interested in the $$$ while some are genuinely interested in the MUSIC.. AM I WRONG???

Started with Traktor way back and I literally had it in a box for almost a year before I actually used it. Then I used it 3 or 4 times and gave Serato a try back in 2012..never looked back

Here in the Philippines, in the clubs we use I use Serato DJ and Rekordbox, I use Virtual DJ on ceremonies, wedding, Beauty Pageants beacause you don't need to prepare tracks or create crates, in virtual DJ you can just go straight in to your drive and folders and just drag and drop from anything..

I use Serato Dj Pro, VDJ8, and djaypro 2 and from what i've noticed djaypro's sound quality is amazing compared to the other softwares. I love the spotify integration (although still purchasing from bpmsupreme and DjCity) . It's always nice to find that song someone wants or have the algorithm of whats hot at the moment without doing the research. Now with VDJ8, I love that it keeps CPU usage down even while video dj'n off an external HD (which is a problem with serato). I also love the ask.the.dj feature for requesting music and tipping your dj. I feel like Serato is falling behind and could def use or better some of these features within their software.

Latency, stability, and workflow. I've run legit VDj, RB, & Serato from the same i7 laptop and only one has yet to fail me. That's the one I will continue to use. Go with that principle and rock on.

I have been DJing consistently in LA for about 2.5 years, Mostly latin music, with some hip hop and house. I use both Serato and Djay Pro with either Denon MC6000MK2 or MCX8000. Although I usually use MCX as a stand alone, no laptop. Both controllers are custom midi mapped for the skills/effects that I use most often. I have to say, Djay Pro worked very well for me with CDJs , the software is especially good if I get an odd request that I didn't think of before, and don't have on my 2TB HDD, since it works with Spotify. Sometimes audience has a great input, and I learn and improve from that. However I prefer to rely on my library since all my tracks are prepared with intros/outros as well as cue points. IMHO Proper preparation makes all the difference, no matter the software.

If you don't like the way Virtual DJ looks. You can go to the website, and download all you want from the 100's of FREE skins for Windows and IOS. Or you can download the free skin maker template, and personalize one yourself. I have VDJ, and Serato. But that's because Serato came with my Pioneer DDJ-SZ. I have used Virtual DJ for over 8 years, and like it best but use either one. Virtual DJ does more and is easier than Serato. Plus with Serato, you have to buy all the stuff that comes FREE with Virtual DJ. ( EFX, samples, loops, etc. ) Plus with Virtual DJ Pro, you get lifetime FREE upgrades. Nobody admits to using it, everything Virtual DJ comes out with ends up on everybody else's software, all the other softwares are trying to be Virtual DJ. Virtual DJ, is the number 1, DJ software. Period. 😎

Straight up VDJ for me, I think their free download software is the best, its fantastic, others simply "cant touch this". When I was an amateur It helped me to get my beat match in a lot quicker, gave me a better understanding about harmonic-mixing, it's so easy to use. It's a shame they've been a bit static over the years, just taking their time.

Dj Pro now because the beat gridding is the best and when you set up manual loops it doesn’t change the beats per minute like Serato does.

Great video. I currently gig weekly at the same location in NYC and sometimes other venues and have my own controller. I have been around long enough that I know of carrying crates up and down stairs back in the early 2000s. Due to a storage issue when moving from Cali to NYC years ago I lost the vast majority of my vinyl and spent many years rebuilding my collection. When I began getting back into dj'ing I used the Home version of VDJ to practice, I also used MIxxx. When I got my first gig I was using Mixxx then I eventually moved over to Traktor and currently that is the software I use on a regular weekly basis. I have done events that have asked for a VJ, so I would dust off my VDJ skills. I have used Rekordbox a few times and am familiar as I would like to have a good idea how each works. Only one I have never really used is Serato. Interestingly enough since VDJ 2020 has come out I have been entertaining the idea of switching over to use VDJ more since Traktor is pretty much second hand for me now.