Come on Serato!

I got an email about this last night.
Am i being thick but what is the purpose of this software? The setup page shows (for example) a controller connecting to a laptop and then a tablet attached to the laptop. It says that you need Serato DJ to use Remote. Why take a laptop and a tablet out with you? I’m sure i’ve missed the point somewhere. It was late when i read the info 🙂

Here’s the point. I have a WeGO on Serato DJ (paid for the upgrade). My controller has no buttons for loops, and can only be on 2 decks at a time. The app is like a controller extension. It allows me to hit loops and cues from any of my decks wirelessly or via USB for low latency (or for crappy wifi connections).
Personally, getting it later.

From what I gather, the remote let’s you easily control FX too. And for that touch is pretty, darn, nice.

I have to agree that an iPad app that doesn’t take away the need for a computer does lose some of it’s magic. I have to admit though that I am gonna experiment a little with a MixVibes Cross setup just like that. I am building a flightcased PC that I connect everything too, and then have a wireless iPad sit in front of me for easy browsing and such.

So, bit of a mixed feeling here.

Generally you would expect the advent of an iPad controller app to provide extra functionality (like it might in this case by giving you touchscreen control over FX) or take away the necessity of other equipment, like a laptop.

Greetinx,
C.

The clue is in the name. It’s a remote control for Serato. As was said before, some controllers don’t have enough buttons to control everything, or they’re an afterthought. It’s also less intrusive having a little iPad in front of you rather than a laptop screen. It might even help get rid of SeratoFace (!).
I think that SSL users will find it more useful than SDJ.

I totally agree, if you do already have an excellent Serato Controller (DDJ-SX, Terminal Mix,…) you prolly will not need the remote.
However for a minimalistic setup with SSL (2 turntables, cheapest Rane mixer) this thing is definitely a winner.
I can also see people who have a very small and limited controller (aka beginner controller) that they outgrow, to invest 20 bucks and expand their setup for another year before having to invest LOTs more for a bigger controller.

Dj Emazing, post: 42694, member: 9575 wrote: As djs we are relying way to much on technology …

This I would agree with, the danger most present for young, starting DJ’s. A bit like calculators back in the day. Then a tool to aid in math, now a replacement. Most young people working the cash register have not learned the ability to do mental arithmitic. They need a calculator to even add three numbers. I use a calculator all the time, but can do pretty big calculations on paper if need be. This is not only a handy skill when no calculator is available, but when using a calculator I know full well the theory behind it. I know EXACTLY what the calculator is doing and why. It’s not bad if you use a sync button, as long as you fully understand the mechanisms behind it, the reason you can’t use it all the time and -very important- the insight into WHEN you can and cannot use it.

… sooner or later djing will no longer be an occupation due to these apps.

This I doubt, for the very reason we have discussed here many a time and which you stated also: “technology doesn’t make the DJ”. The audience wants to dance to music and have a good time. At the end of the day they don’t care what technology a DJ uses to play that music. I am pretty convinced that no algorythm can replace the human mind and (more importantly) intuition that comes from practice and experience when it comes to music selection, audience interaction and such.

Greetinx,
C.