How do you map a mixtrack with a virtual DJ?

 Mapping a Mixtrack with Virtual DJ Both on Keyboard and Controllers involves configuring your controller’s buttons, knobs, faders, and jog wheels to perform specific tasks within the Virtual DJ software. This allows you to control the DJ software more intuitively, enhancing your performance and workflow.

Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to map your Mixtrack (we will assume you are using a Numark Mixtrack, but the steps are quite similar for various models) with Virtual DJ.

Step 1: Install Virtual DJ and Drivers

Before you can map the Mixtrack controller to Virtual DJ, make sure you have the correct drivers installed for the Mixtrack, as well as the latest version of Virtual DJ.

1. . Install Virtual DJ: Download and install Virtual DJ from Virtual DJ’s official website. If you have already installed it, make sure it’s the latest version to ensure compatibility with your controller.
2. . Install Drivers for Mixtrack: Head over to the Numark website and download the drivers for your specific Mixtrack model. Install these drivers on your system to ensure that the Mixtrack is recognized by Virtual DJ.
3. . Connect the Mixtrack: Connect your Mixtrack controller to your computer using the USB cable. Make sure it's securely plugged in.

Step 2: Check if Virtual DJ Detects the Controller

1. . Launch Virtual DJ: Open Virtual DJ on your computer.
2. . Check for Automatic Detection: Virtual DJ automatically detects compatible controllers when you connect them. If it’s detected, you should see your Mixtrack in the "Controllers" section within the settings menu of Virtual DJ. You’ll also see a message stating the controller is connected.
3. . Confirm Detection: If Virtual DJ doesn’t automatically recognize your controller, you may need to install or update the driver. You can also navigate to the "Controllers" tab in Virtual DJ settings and select the Mixtrack manually from the list of supported controllers.

Step 3: Enter Mapping Mode

Now that your controller is connected and recognized, you need to enter the mapping mode to customize how each control works in Virtual DJ.

1. . Access the Settings: In Virtual DJ, click on the gear icon (Settings) in the top right corner to open the settings menu.
2. . Select the "Controllers" Tab: Inside the settings menu, click on the "Controllers" tab. You’ll see your Mixtrack listed if it’s properly connected.
3. . Click on "Mapping": When your Mixtrack is highlighted, click on the “Mapping” button to enter the mapping editor. This section will allow you to map different physical controls on your Mixtrack to Virtual DJ’s functions.

Step 4: Understand the Mixtrack Layout

Before diving into the mapping process, it’s important to understand the physical layout of the Mixtrack controller and its functions. Most Mixtrack models have:

• Jog Wheels: Used for scratching or adjusting track position.
• Pads: These can be used for triggering samples, loops, hot cues, etc.
• Faders/Knobs: These adjust volume, EQ, filter, or other track parameters.
• Play/Pause, Cue, Sync: Standard transport controls for playing or cueing tracks.
• FX Controls: For controlling the effects applied to the track.

Understanding these controls will help you determine how to map each feature in Virtual DJ.

Step 5: Begin Mapping Controls

Now that you understand the controller and Virtual DJ’s mapping interface, you can begin mapping the Mixtrack’s physical controls to Virtual DJ’s software features.

1. . Select a Control to Map: In the mapping editor, click on the control (button, knob, or fader) on your Mixtrack that you want to assign a function to. For example, if you want to map the Play/Pause button, press that button on the Mixtrack to select it in the editor.
2. . Assign the Function: Once the control is selected, a text box will appear where you can type the command. For example, to map the Play/Pause button, type play or select the corresponding action from the dropdown menu.
3. . Test the Mapping: After you assign a function, test it by pressing the corresponding button on the Mixtrack. Virtual DJ should execute the mapped function.
4. . Repeat for Other Controls: Continue this process for each button, knob, or fader on the Mixtrack. Common mappings include: Jog Wheel: deck 1 scratch or deck 2 scratch (to enable scratching). Hot Cue Pads: hot_cue 1, hot_cue 2, etc., to set up different cue points. Faders: volume 1 or volume 2 to control track volume. FX Buttons: Assign different effects like echo, reverb, or flanger to the FX buttons on the Mixtrack.

Step 6: Customize Advanced Features

Virtual DJ allows you to assign more advanced features to your Mixtrack controller for added flexibility. Here are some examples of what you can map:

• Loops and Samples: Map the pads to trigger loops or play specific samples. For example, you can assign the pads to start a loop or trigger a vocal sample.
• Pitch Faders: Map the pitch control to modify the tempo or pitch of a track. You can configure the Mixtrack’s pitch faders to adjust the speed of a track by typing pitch or adjusting the pitch range in Virtual DJ settings.
• Effects Control: Virtual DJ offers a variety of effects that can be mapped to the controller. You can use the knobs or buttons to tweak parameters like reverb, echo, and filter.
• Deck Switching: If your Mixtrack model supports multiple decks, you can assign buttons to switch between deck 1, deck 2, etc., and control multiple tracks at once.

Step 7: Save Your Mappings

Once you have mapped all the controls according to your preferences, you need to save the mapping so that you don’t lose your configurations.

1. . Save the Configuration: In the Mapping section, there should be an option to save your mappings. Click "Save" to store the current configuration for future use.
2. . Export the Mapping (Optional): If you wish to use the same mappings on another machine or share your configuration, you can export your mapping. Look for an option to export the mapping file.

Step 8: Test and Adjust the Mapping

Once everything is mapped, you should test the controller to ensure each button, knob, and fader performs as expected in Virtual DJ.

• Test the Performance: Load a track into Virtual DJ and try using the Mixtrack as you would during a live performance.
• Adjust Mapping as Needed: If any controls aren’t functioning the way you want them to, return to the mapping interface and make adjustments.

Step 9: Use MIDI Learn (Optional)

If you want a more hands-on approach, Virtual DJ allows you to use the MIDI Learn feature. This is especially useful if you want to map controls in a way that’s unique to your workflow.

1. . Activate MIDI Learn: In the settings menu, enable the “MIDI Learn” mode. This allows you to click on any function in Virtual DJ and then physically press the control on your Mixtrack that you want to map to it.
2. . Learn the Function: Virtual DJ will automatically assign the control when you press the corresponding button, knob, or fader on your Mixtrack.

Step 10: Final Adjustments

After mapping, continue fine-tuning your setup by adjusting the sensitivity and behavior of your Mixtrack’s controls, such as jog wheels, faders, or buttons, in Virtual DJ’s advanced settings.

Conclusion

Mapping a Mixtrack controller to Virtual DJ gives you a highly customized and efficient DJing experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned DJ, learning how to map your controller will enhance your workflow, allowing you to focus more on mixing and performance rather than technical aspects. By following the steps outlined above, you can personalize your controller to suit your style and preferences, ensuring a seamless integration with Virtual DJ. visit My profile for Video Guide for details and practical Demos