Rane/Serato Scratch Live

by Paul on May.15, 2009, under DJ Product Reviews

Rane/Serato Scratch Live

Rane Scratch Live

There has probably already been a post about Rane & Serato’s Scratch Live–after all, who would give up the chance to "critique" a DJ entity that has climbed all the way to the top? Rane/Serato Scratch Live has been sampled, purchased and beloved my millions of working DJs across the globe. If you haven’t already purchased it, I’ll give you a few simple reasons why you should…and maybe why you should not.

Rane/Serato Scratch Live Features:

SL 1 interface connects one or two standard vinyl or CD turntables to your computer
2switchable phono or line inputs
1 Microphone input,
2 line outputs,
Pass thru outputs for the phono/line and mic
12" vinyl records w/ Serato exclusive and unique control signal

Disclaimer: These are just the basic features. When tampering with Scratch Live, working DJs will find more intricate capabilities this hardware/software system provides.

Why But it?

Stability. Scratch Live (all versions) is for the professional DJ. It was designed to last long, and to impress even the pickiest pro disc jockeys in this business. Stability from Scratch Live shouldn’t be an object of worry, which might be a large reason why it’s so successful.

Speed: Finding and playing with songs is getting really easy, thanks to SSL.

Variety. It doesn’t cater to just one kind of DJ, like so much DJ equipment (both hardware and software) seems to do. Its versatility is ideal for today’s working DJ. Why stick with one style when you can do them all? I’ll admit that turntablists will get a better response from the Scratch Live, and needless to say, "scratchers" will, too. But those who like to mix things up will find that Scratch Live likes mixing music, too.

Latter day technology. SSL is always updating. For some people, keeping up can get a little tiring. I know how you feel. But at least you’re onboard a company that will never make stops at "Old News Avenue", "Cliche Vill", or "Re-run Town".

Functions. Scratch Live has Incredible functions that provide an easy work flow and great convenience. No more stressing; just scratching, mixing and money-making. For a technical look at the functions, head over to Serato’s Official Web Site.

Why Avoid it?

The price is crazy. Some would say it is a bit high, but with the availible features/functions, Scratch Live is worth the money. Others would say, ‘Pass it up and stick with Torq.’ I say it is expensive, but you have great features, especially for those who love scratching. I’m also going to say that Torq isn’t half bad, and for those who don’t have the money for Scratch Live, Torq isn’t horrible software to settle on.

Simplicity. Scratch Live makes DJ’ing waaay too easy.

Now for some visual aid. This is a lengthy clip that goes really deep into SSL’s basic functions and other capabilities. The guy does a pretty good job describing it. To get right into the good stuff, I would go to 0:12. Click Here.