Scratch Live allows manipulation and playback of digital audio files (mp3, wav, aiff, ogg and non-DRM aac) using traditional vinyl turntables or CD players via special timecode vinyl records or CDs. It seeks to cross the divide between the versatility of digital audio and the tactile control of vinyl turntablism.
Scratch Live is used by such DJs as Diplo, Klute, ?uestlove, DJ AM, Mr Smith, Mix Master Mike, DMT, Mr Hahn, Mike Relm and A-Trak.
Software
Scratch Live was first released in 2004. Since then eight major point updates to the software have been released, with minor releases in between. Serato makes the updates freely available for anyone to download from their website. The software however cannot be used to its full potential without one of the Scratch Live specific hardware interfaces connected, which act as a dongle.
When no interface is connected, the program loads but only a limited playback interface is available (versions 1.8.0 and above only). Users can listen to their songs, which play through the computer's default soundcard, add cue points, loop points and build overviews of songs in their library in this mode. However this "off-line" player is limited to one deck only and no pitch control, so there is no way to "mix" two songs.
The current version of Scratch Live is 1.8.2.
New features include:
Widows Vista 64-bit support/drivers
Library font zoom
Pioneer CDJ-400 native support
Various bug fixes
Video SL
In 2008, Serato released the first major plugin for Scratch Live, Video-SL. It allowed the playback of video files in similar fashion audio files. Users can apply effects in real time and mix between video independently of audio. It requires the use exclusively of Rane's TTM-57SL Mixer.
A demo copy can be installed and used but a watermark is displayed on the main output screen. Activation is done via a serial number.
ITCH
In 2008, Serato announced the development of Itch, an integrated software and hardware system similar to Scratch Live but tied to hardware controllers and with a more simplified interface. Compatible hardware include the Vestax VCI-300 and the Numark NS7. The controllers connect via USB and use the MIDI Protocol to communicate with Itch.
Custom hardware
Scratch Live currently works in conjunction with three application specific audio devices designed and manufactured for the system by Mukilteo, Washington-based Rane Corporation.
SL1
The SL1 is a multi-channel, USB 1.1 external soundcard,. The unit has inputs for two stereo turntables or CD players and one unbalanced microphone. There are two stereo line level outputs and two 'thru' outputs which provide a copy of the input signal to enable playback of regular vinyl records or CDs. ASIO drivers are available for the unit to allow it to be used by other Windows applications as a multi channel sound interface. Unfortunately there are no Core Audio drivers for Macintosh based computers.
MP4
A 19" rack mount DJ mixer based on the MP2, incorporating the sound card functions of the SL1. The MP4 allows you to record your set digitally within the Scratch Live software over the USB interface. The mixer is recognized by Windows as a 4x output 2x input soundcard so it can be used with any windows application. Also provided are ASIO and Core Audio drivers for use in audio applications on both Windows XP and Mac OS X.
TTM-57SL
A DJ mixer combining the functionality of the SL1 with an application specific control surface based on the popular TTM56 scratch mixer. It also contains added effects not available with the TTM56 or bare Serato set-ups.
TTM-57SL connections
Four main stereo inputs all of which can accept both line and phono level signals. Two of these inputs can be used at any one time for controlling Scratch Live or playback of a phono or line level source. The inputs use RCA jacks.
One stereo line input without EQ for playback of other sources on RCA jacks.
A balanced microphone input with two band EQ on a 1/4" TRS jack.
A stereo effects loop with 1/4" Jack connectors.
Three main stereo outputs providing balanced outputs on XLR and TRS Jack connectors and unbalanced output on RCA jacks.
Two headphone connections providing both 3.5mm and 1.4" jack connections
1/4" TRS Jack for connection of a three button momentary action footswitch.
An IEC 320 EN 60320 C14 power connector (kettle lead) - the mixer has a universal power supply that can accept any AC voltage 100-240V making it possible to use the same mixer anywhere in the world without changing a setting or the use of a transformer.
Supported third party accessories
Serato have begun working in supporting third party players/controllers with the Scratch Live software. These controllers are "natively" supported and do no require the use of the timecode CDs, all playback and control information is sent over USB. The following are the currently supported native controllers:
Denon HC 4500, HD 2500
Numark DMC2, iCDX
Pioneer CDJ-400
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