Seamlessly transitioning between DJs during a performance is crucial to maintaining the flow and energy of the set. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for swapping DJs using dual USB-equipped Serato DJ hardware or single USB devices with an external audio source.

Requirements

• Serato DJ Pro (latest version recommended)
• Two Compatible Computers with Serato DJ Pro installed
• Additional Requirements Based on Hardware:
  Dual USB-equipped DJ Hardware (e.g., Pioneer DJ DJM-A9, Roland DJ-707M, Numark NS6II): No external audio source required
  OR
  Single USB DJ Hardware (e.g., controllers with only one USB port): Audio source required (e.g., phone, media player, USB drive)

Swap Methods

Using Dual USB DJ Hardware

This method applies to dual USB-equipped hardware, such as the Pioneer DJ DJM-A9, Roland DJ-707M, and Numark NS6II.

1. Connect the outgoing DJ’s laptop to USB A and the incoming DJ’s laptop to USB B.
2. Use the input selector knobs to assign the channels.
3. Assign Decks 1 and 2 to USB A for the outgoing DJ and Decks 3 and 4 to USB B for the incoming DJ.
4. The outgoing DJ plays their last track on Deck 1 via USB A, while the incoming DJ cues up their first track on Deck 3 via USB B.
5. Gradually reduce the volume on Deck 1 while increasing the volume on Deck 3 to complete the transition.

Using Single USB DJ Hardware with an External Audio Source

This method applies to controllers, mixers or interfaces with a single USB port. In this scenario, a secondary audio source is necessary to maintain uninterrupted audio.

1. Connect an external audio source (phone, media player, or turntable) with a transition track loaded to a spare line or phono input on the mixer or controller.
2. Assign the external audio source to a free channel using the input selector knobs.
3. Play the transition track from the external audio source.
4. Once the audio source is playing, the outgoing DJ disconnects their laptop.
5. Connect the incoming DJ’s laptop to the controller, mixer, or interface's USB port.
6. The incoming DJ loads their first track and ensures the channel faders are set appropriately.
7. Fade out the external audio source and fade in the first track from the incoming DJ’s laptop.

Important Considerations

• Audio Source Selection: Choose a track that maintains the energy or ambiance of the previous DJ’s set to avoid disrupting the flow.
• Test Connections: Before the set begins, test all connections, especially the audio source input, to avoid any signal issues during the transition.
• Communication: Coordinate with both DJs to ensure they understand which channels they will control and the timing of the handover.