DVS Setup For Reloop 8000mk2 & Serato DJ Pro: A Guide

Hey guys! So, you've got your hands on the awesome Reloop 8000mk2 turntables and you're already rocking Serato DJ Pro? That's fantastic! But maybe you're wondering how to take things to the next level with a Digital Vinyl System (DVS). Don't worry, you've come to the right place. This guide will break down everything you need to know about setting up DVS with your Reloop 8000mk2s and Serato DJ Pro, ensuring you get the best possible performance and unleash your full DJ potential. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this article will provide a comprehensive overview to help you dive into the world of DVS.

Understanding DVS: The Best of Both Worlds

Before we dive into the specifics, let's quickly recap what DVS actually is. DVS, or Digital Vinyl System, essentially bridges the gap between the classic feel of vinyl turntables and the flexibility of digital music. Imagine being able to control your digital tracks with the tactile experience of spinning real records – that's the magic of DVS. You use special control vinyl or CDs that send signals to your DJ software (in this case, Serato DJ Pro), which then plays the corresponding digital track. This gives you the precision and responsiveness of vinyl with the vast library and convenience of digital music. It’s the perfect blend of old-school and new-school DJing, allowing you to scratch, juggle, and mix with the authentic feel of vinyl while accessing thousands of tracks at your fingertips. Think of it as having the best of both worlds – the warmth and tactile feedback of vinyl combined with the limitless possibilities of digital music.

So, why should you consider using DVS with your Reloop 8000mk2s? The answer is simple: enhanced control and creativity. With DVS, you gain a much more direct and intuitive connection to your music. The latency is minimal, meaning the response between your actions on the turntable and the playback in Serato DJ Pro is incredibly fast. This allows for precise scratching, beatmatching, and cueing, giving you a level of control that simply isn't possible with traditional DJ controllers. Plus, the visual feedback of spinning vinyl can be incredibly inspiring, helping you to develop your own unique style and performance techniques. The added benefit of using DVS is that it brings a certain authenticity to your sets. There's something undeniably cool about seeing a DJ manipulate vinyl, even if the music is digital. It adds a visual element to your performance that can captivate your audience and set you apart from the crowd.

Furthermore, DVS systems are incredibly versatile. You're not limited to just playing digital files; you can also incorporate traditional vinyl records into your sets seamlessly. This opens up a whole new world of creative possibilities, allowing you to blend different genres, eras, and formats into a cohesive and dynamic performance. Imagine transitioning from a classic vinyl record to a cutting-edge digital track with perfect precision – DVS makes it all possible. The flexibility extends to your setup as well. DVS systems are generally compatible with a wide range of DJ mixers and interfaces, giving you the freedom to customize your setup to your specific needs and preferences. Whether you're performing in a club, at a festival, or in your home studio, DVS can adapt to any environment. Overall, embracing DVS with your Reloop 8000mk2s and Serato DJ Pro is a fantastic way to elevate your DJing skills, expand your creative horizons, and deliver truly memorable performances.

What You Need for DVS with Reloop 8000mk2 and Serato DJ Pro

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. To get DVS working seamlessly with your Reloop 8000mk2s and Serato DJ Pro, you'll need a few key components. Don't worry, it's not as complicated as it sounds! We'll break it down step-by-step. First and foremost, you need a Serato DJ Pro license. This is the software that will interpret the signals from your control vinyl and play your digital tracks. If you already have it, awesome! If not, you'll need to purchase a license or subscribe to Serato DJ Pro. This is the foundation of your DVS setup, so make sure you've got it covered.

Next up, you'll need a Serato DJ Pro compatible audio interface. This is the crucial piece of hardware that connects your turntables to your computer and allows Serato DJ Pro to receive the control signals. The Reloop 8000mk2s themselves do not have a built-in audio interface that supports DVS directly, so you'll need an external one. A popular option is the Serato DJ Pro certified mixer, which often has a built-in audio interface. This simplifies your setup and reduces the number of cables you need. Some mixers that are frequently recommended for DVS setups include the Rane Seventy, Pioneer DJ DJM-S9, or the Reloop Elite. These mixers are specifically designed for Serato DJ Pro and offer excellent performance and features for DVS DJing. Alternatively, you can use a standalone audio interface like the Rane SL4 or the Focusrite Scarlett series. These interfaces provide high-quality audio conversion and are compatible with Serato DJ Pro, but they require a separate mixer for your audio outputs.

Of course, you'll also need control vinyl or CDs. These are special records or discs that contain a timecode signal that Serato DJ Pro uses to track the movement of your turntables. When you spin the control vinyl, Serato DJ Pro interprets the signal and plays the corresponding digital track. Serato provides their own control vinyl, which is widely regarded for its accurate tracking and durability. You can also find control vinyl from other brands, but it's generally recommended to stick with Serato's official offerings to ensure optimal performance. Finally, you'll need the standard DJ gear: your Reloop 8000mk2 turntables, cables (RCA, USB) to connect everything, and your computer that meets Serato DJ Pro's system requirements. Make sure your computer has enough processing power and RAM to handle Serato DJ Pro smoothly, especially when using DVS. A solid-state drive (SSD) is also highly recommended for faster loading times and overall performance. So, to recap, the essential components are: Serato DJ Pro license, a Serato DJ Pro compatible audio interface (either a mixer with a built-in interface or a standalone interface), control vinyl or CDs, your Reloop 8000mk2 turntables, necessary cables, and a capable computer. With these items in hand, you'll be well on your way to rocking DVS with your Reloop 8000mk2s!

Setting Up DVS with Reloop 8000mk2 and Serato DJ Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide

Alright, you've got all the gear – now it's time to put it all together! Setting up DVS with your Reloop 8000mk2s and Serato DJ Pro might seem a bit daunting at first, but don't worry, we'll walk you through it step-by-step. Follow these instructions carefully, and you'll be spinning in no time.

1. Install Serato DJ Pro and any necessary drivers: If you haven't already, the first step is to download and install Serato DJ Pro on your computer. You'll also need to install the drivers for your audio interface. These drivers allow your computer to communicate properly with the interface. You can usually find the drivers on the manufacturer's website. Make sure you download the correct drivers for your operating system (Windows or macOS). Once you've downloaded the drivers, follow the installation instructions provided by the manufacturer. This usually involves running an installer and restarting your computer. After installing the drivers, launch Serato DJ Pro and activate your license if you haven't already. This will ensure that you have full access to all of Serato DJ Pro's features, including DVS support.

2. Connect your audio interface: Now it's time to connect your audio interface to your computer. If you're using a mixer with a built-in interface, simply connect it to your computer via USB. If you're using a standalone audio interface, connect it to your computer via USB and then connect your mixer to the interface using RCA cables. Make sure you connect the outputs of your mixer to the inputs of your audio interface, and vice versa. Refer to the manuals for your specific devices for detailed connection diagrams. It's crucial to use high-quality cables to ensure a clean and reliable signal. Avoid using cheap or damaged cables, as they can introduce noise and distortion into your audio. Once you've connected your audio interface, power it on and wait for your computer to recognize it. Serato DJ Pro should automatically detect your audio interface once it's connected.

3. Connect your Reloop 8000mk2 turntables: Next, connect your Reloop 8000mk2 turntables to your audio interface. Use RCA cables to connect the outputs of your turntables to the inputs of your audio interface. Typically, you'll connect the left turntable to input channels 1/2 and the right turntable to input channels 3/4 on your interface. Ensure that the ground wires from your turntables are properly connected to the grounding posts on your mixer or audio interface. This is essential to prevent unwanted hum and noise in your audio signal. A proper ground connection will ensure a clean and clear sound. Double-check that the RCA cables are securely connected and that the ground wires are firmly attached to their respective posts. A loose connection can cause audio dropouts or other performance issues.

4. Configure Serato DJ Pro: Open Serato DJ Pro and go to the "Setup" or "Preferences" menu. Navigate to the "Audio" tab. Here, you'll need to select your audio interface as the primary audio device. Serato DJ Pro should automatically detect your interface, but if it doesn't, you can manually select it from the dropdown menu. Next, configure the input channels for each deck. Assign the appropriate input channels on your audio interface to the corresponding decks in Serato DJ Pro. For example, if you connected your left turntable to input channels 1/2, assign those channels to Deck 1 in Serato DJ Pro. Similarly, assign the input channels for your right turntable to Deck 2. Make sure you select the "Thru" or "Phono" input setting for each deck to ensure that Serato DJ Pro receives the signal from your turntables correctly. You may also need to adjust the buffer size in the audio settings. A lower buffer size will result in lower latency, but it may also increase the risk of audio dropouts. Experiment with different buffer sizes to find the optimal setting for your system. Generally, a buffer size of 4ms or 8ms is a good starting point. Once you've configured the audio settings, close the setup menu.

5. Calibrate DVS: Now it's time to calibrate DVS. Place the control vinyl on your turntables and start spinning them at the correct speed (33 1/3 RPM). In Serato DJ Pro, click the "Setup" or "Preferences" menu and navigate to the "DVS" tab. Here, you'll find the calibration controls. Serato DJ Pro will display waveforms representing the signals from your control vinyl. Adjust the gain knobs on your mixer or audio interface until the waveforms are clear and strong, but not clipping (distorting). Serato DJ Pro will provide visual feedback to help you adjust the gain levels correctly. The goal is to achieve a healthy signal level without introducing distortion. Once the gain levels are properly adjusted, click the "Calibrate" button in Serato DJ Pro. The software will analyze the signals from your control vinyl and optimize the tracking performance. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully during the calibration process. This may involve spinning the control vinyl in different directions and at different speeds. A successful calibration will ensure accurate and responsive DVS control. If you experience any issues during calibration, refer to the Serato DJ Pro manual or online resources for troubleshooting tips.

6. Start Mixing!: Congratulations, you've successfully set up DVS! Now it's time to load your tracks into Serato DJ Pro and start mixing. Place the needle on the control vinyl and experiment with scratching, beatmatching, and other DJ techniques. You should feel a direct and responsive connection between your actions on the turntables and the music playing from Serato DJ Pro. If you encounter any issues, double-check your connections and settings. Make sure the input channels are correctly assigned and that the gain levels are properly adjusted. With a little practice, you'll be mastering DVS in no time. Enjoy the flexibility and creativity that DVS brings to your DJing experience!

Troubleshooting Common DVS Issues

Even with the best setup, you might encounter some hiccups along the way. DVS can be a little finicky sometimes, but don't worry, most issues are easily resolved. Let's go through some common problems and their solutions.

Poor Tracking or Jittery Playback

One of the most common issues is poor tracking or jittery playback. This is when the music doesn't respond smoothly to your movements on the turntable, or the playback seems to jump around. There are several potential causes for this.

• Dirty Control Vinyl or Needles: The first thing to check is the cleanliness of your control vinyl and needles. Dust and debris can interfere with the tracking signal. Use a soft brush to gently clean your control vinyl before each use. You can also use a specialized record cleaning solution for more stubborn dirt. Similarly, clean your needles regularly with a stylus brush. A clean needle will track the control vinyl more accurately. Consider replacing your needles if they are worn or damaged. Worn needles can cause poor tracking and may even damage your control vinyl.

• Incorrect Gain Levels: As we mentioned earlier, proper gain levels are crucial for DVS. If the gain is too low, Serato DJ Pro won't receive a strong enough signal from the control vinyl. If the gain is too high, the signal can clip and distort, leading to poor tracking. Double-check your gain settings in Serato DJ Pro and on your mixer or audio interface. Aim for a healthy signal level without clipping. Adjust the gain knobs until the waveforms in Serato DJ Pro are clear and strong, but not in the red. It's often a process of fine-tuning to find the optimal gain levels for your setup.

• Grounding Issues: Grounding problems can introduce noise and interference into your audio signal, which can affect DVS tracking. Make sure the ground wires from your turntables are properly connected to the grounding posts on your mixer or audio interface. A loose or faulty ground connection can cause hum and distortion. If you're experiencing grounding issues, try connecting the ground wires to different grounding posts or using a different ground wire. In some cases, the issue may be with the power supply or the electrical wiring in your venue. Consult with an electrician if you suspect a more serious grounding problem.

• Software or Driver Issues: Sometimes, the problem lies within the software itself. Make sure you're using the latest version of Serato DJ Pro and that your audio interface drivers are up-to-date. Outdated software or drivers can cause compatibility issues and performance problems. Check the Serato DJ Pro website and the manufacturer's website for your audio interface for the latest updates. Installing the latest updates can often resolve bugs and improve performance. If you're still experiencing issues, try reinstalling Serato DJ Pro or your audio interface drivers. A clean installation can sometimes fix corrupted files or settings.

High Latency

Another common issue is high latency, which is a delay between your actions on the turntable and the playback in Serato DJ Pro. This can make scratching and beatmatching feel sluggish and unresponsive.

• Buffer Size: The buffer size setting in Serato DJ Pro directly affects latency. A lower buffer size results in lower latency, but it also requires more processing power. If your computer can't handle the lower buffer size, you may experience audio dropouts or glitches. A higher buffer size reduces the processing load on your computer, but it increases latency. Experiment with different buffer sizes to find the optimal balance for your system. A good starting point is 4ms or 8ms. If you're experiencing audio dropouts, try increasing the buffer size. If you're experiencing high latency, try decreasing the buffer size. It's often a process of trial and error to find the setting that works best for your setup.

• Computer Performance: Serato DJ Pro can be demanding on your computer's resources, especially when using DVS. Make sure your computer meets the minimum system requirements for Serato DJ Pro and that you have enough processing power and RAM. Close any unnecessary applications running in the background to free up system resources. A solid-state drive (SSD) can also significantly improve performance by reducing loading times and improving overall responsiveness. Consider upgrading your computer's hardware if you're consistently experiencing performance issues. A more powerful processor, more RAM, and a faster storage drive can make a big difference in DVS performance.

• USB Connection: The type of USB connection you use can also affect latency. Use a USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 port for your audio interface. Avoid using USB hubs, as they can introduce latency and bandwidth limitations. Connect your audio interface directly to your computer's USB port for the best performance. If you're using a USB hub, try connecting your audio interface to a different USB port or removing the hub altogether. Some USB ports may provide better performance than others, so experiment with different ports if you're experiencing latency issues.

Audio Dropouts or Glitches

Audio dropouts or glitches are another frustrating issue that can occur with DVS. This is when the audio signal momentarily cuts out or produces crackling sounds.

• Buffer Size: As mentioned earlier, the buffer size setting can affect audio dropouts. If you're experiencing audio dropouts, try increasing the buffer size in Serato DJ Pro. A higher buffer size gives your computer more time to process the audio, which can prevent dropouts.

• CPU Overload: Audio dropouts can also be caused by CPU overload. If your computer's processor is working too hard, it may not be able to process the audio in real-time, leading to dropouts. Monitor your CPU usage in Serato DJ Pro. If the CPU meter is consistently peaking, try closing unnecessary applications or increasing the buffer size. Consider upgrading your computer's processor if you're consistently experiencing CPU overload.

• Background Processes: Background processes can consume system resources and contribute to audio dropouts. Disable any unnecessary background processes while DJing. This includes things like antivirus software, cloud storage syncing, and automatic updates. You can use the Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (macOS) to identify and disable unnecessary processes. It's a good practice to optimize your computer for DJing by disabling any non-essential services and applications.

• Hardware Conflicts: In rare cases, audio dropouts can be caused by hardware conflicts. This is when two or more hardware devices are competing for the same system resources. Try disconnecting any unnecessary USB devices from your computer. This can help isolate the source of the conflict. If you suspect a hardware conflict, consult your computer's documentation or contact technical support for assistance. Hardware conflicts can be difficult to troubleshoot, but they are usually resolved by reconfiguring your system's hardware settings.

By systematically troubleshooting these common issues, you can usually get your DVS setup running smoothly and enjoy the full potential of your Reloop 8000mk2s and Serato DJ Pro. Remember to be patient and methodical in your approach, and don't hesitate to consult online resources and forums for additional help.

Conclusion: Unleash Your DJ Potential with DVS

So there you have it, guys! A comprehensive guide to setting up DVS with your Reloop 8000mk2s and Serato DJ Pro. We've covered everything from understanding what DVS is and why it's awesome, to the gear you need, the step-by-step setup process, and troubleshooting common issues. Hopefully, this guide has demystified DVS and given you the confidence to dive in and start spinning.

DVS is a game-changer for DJs, offering a unique blend of the classic vinyl feel and the power of digital music. With your Reloop 8000mk2s and Serato DJ Pro, you have a killer combination that can take your DJing to the next level. The precise control, the vast library of digital tracks, and the ability to seamlessly blend vinyl and digital formats – it's a recipe for creative freedom and unforgettable performances. Don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques, push your boundaries, and develop your own unique style. The possibilities are endless!

Remember, the key to mastering DVS is practice and patience. It takes time to get used to the nuances of the system and to develop the muscle memory for precise scratching and beatmatching. Don't get discouraged if you don't get it right away. Keep practicing, keep experimenting, and keep learning. The more you use DVS, the more comfortable and confident you'll become. And the more fun you'll have!

So, go ahead, dust off those control vinyls, fire up your Reloop 8000mk2s, and unleash your DJ potential with DVS. The dance floor is waiting!