Hybrid DJ Setup with DVS: Vinyl Controls Your Files
· re:union Radio editorial · 3 min read
Hybrid DJ setup with DVS: how turntables and control vinyl steer your digital tracks in Serato, Traktor or rekordbox – plus the Pioneer DJ DJM-S11 mixer.
A hybrid setup lets you DJ on real turntables while the music comes from your digital library. The trick is DVS, a Digital Vinyl System: a control record sits on the platter, and the software follows every move of your hand. You keep the needle, the platter and the backspin – and still carry every track with you.
At a glance
- Serato DVS connects supported turntables or CDJs to Serato DJ Pro using NoiseMap control vinyl or CDs.
- Traktor Pro 4 works with Traktor Control Vinyl, any turntables and any digital mixer you choose.
- The Pioneer DJ DJM-S11 controls four decks across two channels and runs with Serato DJ Pro or rekordbox.
- With the DJM-S11, rekordbox offers a DVS mode using its dedicated control vinyl, sold separately.
How vinyl becomes a remote control
The control record carries no music, just a control signal – Serato calls it the NoiseMap Control Tone. Your mixer or interface passes that signal to the software, which plays your file at the speed and in the direction the record is spinning. Scratches, pitch changes and reverse playback land straight in the digital track.
According to Serato, this isn't limited to turntables: CDJs and media players can join in using control CDs. With supported hardware you don't need an external audio interface.
Serato, Traktor or rekordbox: the software question
Serato offers DVS as an expansion. The Serato DJ Club Kit bundle contains Serato DJ Pro and the DVS expansion and is now part of Serato DJ Suite. It is aimed at DJs who want to plug straight into the DVS-supported mixers found in clubs.
Native Instruments relies on Traktor Control Vinyl for Traktor Pro 4. You combine any turntables with any digital mixer and can mix Beatport or Beatsource streams alongside your own files. Flux Mode lets you scratch or juggle hotcues and then drop back into the groove on beat. MIDI sync and Ableton Link let you expand the setup with external hardware and software.
According to Pioneer DJ, rekordbox users get Performance mode unlocked for free on the DJM-S11 and control DVS mode with the matching control vinyl.
The mixer as command centre: DJM-S11
The DJM-S11 is a 2-channel battle mixer with 4-deck control and the successor to the DJM-S9. Its 4.3-inch touch screen lets you browse your library and see waveforms without looking at your laptop. Important for vinyl DJs: the Signal GND terminal takes your turntable's ground wire.
“It gives me a third hand.”
— Kayper, Pioneer DJ
| Channels | 2 |
|---|---|
| Deck control | 4 decks |
| Software | Serato DJ Pro, rekordbox |
| Touch screen | 4.3 inches |
| Beat FX | 22 |
| Performance pads | 8 |
| Mixing processing | 64-bit |
| Master D/A converter | 32-bit |
| USB-A ports (hub) | 2 |
| Width | 267 mm |
| Height | 107.9 mm |
| Depth | 452.2 mm |
| Weight | 5.2 kg |
Who a hybrid setup is for
If you learned on vinyl and don't want to give up the feel of the platter, but buy your tracks digitally, DVS closes exactly that gap. According to the manufacturers, these systems are designed around club mixers – so you can dock your laptop into existing hardware. For building clean transitions afterwards, read our DJ tip on EQ transitions. And if you're still torn between a controller and players, DJ controllers vs. CDJs will help you decide.
Frequently asked questions
What is DVS in DJing?
DVS stands for Digital Vinyl System. A control record or control CD sends a signal that software such as Serato DJ Pro or Traktor Pro 4 uses to control digital tracks.
Do I need an audio interface for DVS?
Not necessarily. Serato lists mixers that support DVS without an external audio interface, such as club mixers on its supported hardware list.
Can I use DVS with CDJs?
Yes. Serato DVS works with control CDs on CDJs and media players, and according to Native Instruments, Traktor Pro 4 can be combined with CDJs and club mixers.
Source: Pioneer DJ – DJM-S11, Serato – DJ Expansions (DVS), Native Instruments – Traktor Pro 4
