Imagine a version of Serato where you didn’t have to unplug your controller to analyse tracks – one that actually auto-analysed tracks upon adding or loading. A version where you didn’t have to use hacks to add ratings to your tracks…or where right-click worked to give the usual range of file options you’d expect in, you know, a file browser.
I’m being flippant, but these are exactly the kinds of features Serato users have been screaming about for as many years as I care to recall. And the good news is that they, and other much-needed improvements, are all coming in Serato DJ Pro 4.0, which is now available in public beta if you’d like to give them a try.
What’s new in Serato DJ 4.0?
Here’s a full list of what Serato DJ Pro 4.0 will let you do (most available in Serato DJ Lite too):
Search, organise, and filter crates – Advanced crate searching and filtering, with new tools that let you search for and sort your crates, as well as show what crates a particular track is in Add both local files and streaming tracks to the same crate – And even better, it seems you’re no longer limited to just one streaming service Favourite your most frequently used crate – Create a shortcut to your favourite or most used crates at the top of your crate list for easy access Colour code your crates – Assign colours to crates in your library for increased visual organisation
Display crate duration, size, and track count – This crate information is now conveniently located at the bottom of the library interface Rate tracks/add energy level with the new custom rating column – Plus assign a customisable rating scale of emojis for a personalised touch Use new right-click functionalities – Integration of right-click features allows “quick and easy access to crate actions and options”, says Serato Analyse tracks while keeping your hardware connected – Tracks can now be analysed for BPM, key, and length while staying connected to hardware, and automatically on importing
Ready to try it? With the usual warnings about not using it in public performance situations, the public beta is here.
First Thoughts
Much needed. We honestly don’t see why students should have to worry about organising their music in anything other than their DJ software – after all, that is one of its jobs, and using anything third party just adds complication.
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But Serato has lagged in recent years in features and functions, and it is testament to the loyalty of its users and the things it does well in other areas that these shortcomings have by and large been tolerated by so many for so long. Overall, we’re happy to report this is a big leap forwards for Serato’s library features.
