Serato, makers of pro DJ software Serato Scratch and Serato ITCH, has taken a show across the bows of both Traktor LE and Virtual DJ LE with its latest DJ software launch, Serato DJ Intro. (Update Nov 1 2012: It’s now also possible to upgrade this to Serato DJ.)
The new software, announced today, is designed to be packaged with beginner DJ controllers, a market that Traktor LE, but especially Virtual DJ LE, currently cater for. And in a simultaneous announcement, Numark – the biggest manufacturer of DJ controllers in the world – has confirmed that it will now package Serato DJ Intro with its lower-end controllers, meaning its complete range – from the humble Mixtrack right up to the NS7FX – now comes with Serato software.
As well as the Numark controller, Serato announced that the Vestax Typhoon and VCI-100 Mk II also work with the software, although it seems there’s no four-deck support for the latter controller; this appears to be strictly a two-deck DJ solution.
We’ve yet to test Serato DJ Intro, but from the look if it, it is easy to use software with the main plus points of ITCH but without the complications of “pro” software. It comes with basic effects, cueing, and a four-sample sampler built-in, the latter apparently complete with Virtual DJ style air horns and explosions.
As with other Serato software, it is free to download, but only works when compatible hardware is plugged in.
Has Serato made a canny move by offering what is effectively a credible basic version of its ITCH software? What effect do you think this will have on Traktor and Virtual DJ? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Phil Morse
