The Moan
On Sale Now!!!!

Imageline (the brilliant company behind FL Studio) have brought out their latest DJ oriented software product, Deckadance.  This package boosts some pretty fantastic features that if implemented as advertised would make this product the one and only contender for the title of "Next Generation DJ Software". So how does it fair up compared to what's on the market today? Read on....

Interface

Before I talk too much about all the technical matters, I will talk something that is very important... looks. This applications interface is absolutely stunning. The Imageline guys have gone all out!

The Deckadance interface is clearly the best DJ Software interface I have ever used. It is an absolute pleasure to use. Controls move nicely, everything looks like a brand new expensive mixer. More importantly the interface is entirely scannable.

So no longer will you be ashamed to let the crowed see what is on your screen!

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Usability

For a complex DJ application, Deckadance is extremely easy to use. Install it, tell it what soundcard to use and what vinyls to use and your ready to start spinning.

It really is that simple.

The system is capable of hosting VST's as effects, and unlike other DJ apps that have tried to pull this off, even this is simple.

The only area that Deckadance is lacking in the usability department is the browsing capabilities. As of V1.08 the track browser is a little weak compared with Traktor or Mixvibes. Searching has just been added, but there is no ID3 tag reading, and play list options are limit. The developers have told us that they will work on these new features and should update the software regularly.

Sound Quality

The sound that this package produces is superb. The effects that come with it sound like they we built in an Allen & Heath mixer. The CPU usage is fairly low, even on one of my lower end systems, which means that you wont get glitches or artefacts.

Vinyl Control

One of the most important features of Deckadance is that it can be controlled by most of the leading vinyl control systems, including MS Pinky, Final Scratch, Traktor Scratch, Torque and MixVibes.

The closed source vinyl solutions cannot be run in relative mode at the moment, which will mean you need to have two decks to use them. The Developers have stated they are working to allow relative for all the solutions in time.

Extendibility

So far you have seen that overall this package rates up there with the best. What I haven't told you is how this package is different.

Not only can Deckadance host VST's, but Deckadance IS ALSO a VST! That's right! You can stick the entire full working DJ application into your favourite sequencer for live performances!

I tested Deckadance running Ableton Live 6.07 with full vinyl control, and had an absolute blast. My virtual DJ setup feels complete for the first time!

Imagine the freedom of using your beloved vinyl, or controlling mp3's with your vinyls, running effects on them through Ableton. That alone would be fantastic! Imagine then throwing in your favourite loops in, or your newest bass VST creation with a midi from your library. Now you Can, and that is what makes this package so great.

Conclusion

While the browser of Deckadance needs some serious work, the creative possibilities this product opens up clearly out weighs such a small detail. I am prepared to give the developers time to fix it.

I give Deckadance a 9/10.

Price

You can download Deckadance from http://www.deckadance.com/ for the special price of 149 US this month only!

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