DDJ SP1 Compatibility - Absolute and Relative Mode
Hi, I've recently ditched Traktor in favour of Rekordbox DJ. I'm currently using only a pair of Technics with timecode and a DJM900NXS2 but am really wanting to expand the setup with a DDJ-SP1, in order to use loops/hot cues etc.
I play mostly in "Absolute" mode but would like to be able to use hot-cues and loops with an SP1. I understand this functionality isn't available in absolute mode. Question is, will Rekordbox automatically switch to "Relative" mode when a hot loop or cue pad is triggered, much the same way Traktor does? If not, would this be easy to do with a midi mapping on the SP1? And would it be easy to switch back to absolute mode when loading a new track?
Any info would be greatly received.
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What's the hesitation in simply using relative mode all the time?
Basically because I'm old fashioned and I like the illusion of playing an actual record. Absolute mode provides this perfectly. I play house and am not a scratch DJ.
When dropping the needle at the beginning of the time code I know I'm at the beginning of the track. I like to know where I am in the track by looking down at the control vinyl. After all, that is why there are minute markers on vinyl isn't it? 10 of them, for 10 minutes worth of timecode? But I'd also like the option to switch to relative mode in order to loop a bar or 2 at the end of the track, or jump to a cue point for mixing out.
Not to big Traktor up but it handles this well. Even switching back to Absolute mode when the next track is loaded.
Hope that makes sense.
Currently, no, rekordbox doesn't do this - however you can always set a hotcue at the beginning of the track, as if you're using the SP1, no matter where you are on the timecode vinyl, you'll be able to hit that hot cue and be at the start of the track.
OK, just been having a bit of a play in relative mode and think I'm getting used to it. Looks like I'll be splashing out on the SP1 then :) Thanks for the feedback.
Cool - glad you were able to try that out. There are reasons a DJ might want to use ABS mode, but with REL mode being so much more flexible, it's certainly worth giving a shot to see if it meets the needs of your DJing style.
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