Rockit 4

I have an older laptop that exhibits bad behavior with the PC tree in Rockit. (512/pent II) It can't run VDJ either, but my old PCDJ Red runs flawlessly. I keep the PC tree to the side and drag and drop everything. I don't load tracks (too time consuming to do it everytime I add new songs) into the library or use built in search. To seach, I just right click on a folder.

Old school, but when I get a better laptop (need a good reason), I will run Rockit all the time. Right now I can't risk any mishaps at a gig.

What!?!?!? Are my eyes deceiving me?

Booch

Nah, the code is in there, just disabled ;)

Since whenever I enable that stuff, I get into the same sort of issues other software has with memory, resources, etc., I decided to take a step by step approach to putting things in...

Over the next few upgrades, I will gradually add stuff in, so as to insure the integrity, instead of just dumping it out there all at once, and having support nightmares :sqerr:

I'd rather add one feature at a time, and have it work right, then just throw a bunch of junk at you, just to say it's there :)

And your attention to stability is much appreciated!!

And your attention to stability is much appreciated!!

And, given the amount of libations ingested on a daily basis, the fact that he can pay attention is also much appreciated. :sqbiggrin:

Booch

Shsssh, be vewwy quiet -- Rick is working on tutorials, and the new website... :sqerr: :sqeek: :sqbiggrin:

Hey Rick. Neat little program for making video tutorials, if you're interested.

http://www.debugmode.com/wink/

Here's a link to the Beta of the new website:

http://rockitprodj.softjock.com

There's a couple new tutorials up there, but it's pretty much what the new site is going to look and feel like.

It will be moving to a new domain, once I get all the rest of the content up, and figure out which domain I'm going to move it to... :sqbiggrin:


I have sooo many domains now, I'm not really sure where to put it (waiting for the wisecracks) :sqerr:

But, since the name is really Rockit Pro DJ, and no longer Rockit 2000, I think it's about time it slowly migrated to a new home. Have to do that slow, since the search engines are real fond of Rockit2000.Com. :)


Booch gets his basic skinning tutorial, but you'll have to wait a bit more on the advanced tutorial, and the skin viewer program...

And now, it's beer time :sqbiggrin:

Booch, would you please stop asking so many questions and making your comments and just buy my freaking software already? You're driving me nuts...and I'm running low on beer!

Soon...

Booch

OK...I'm feeling like the left-handed stepsister here...when's the pitch bend and keylock feature I need coming? :sqwink:

Just kidding...couldn't resist...:sqlaugh:

Oh no -- Bern and Booch are tag-teaming me here on the tempo thingy :sqerr: :sqeek:


C'mon, what can I tell Kanye, when you play his songs too fast or slow? Shoot, the guy goes ballistic when he doesn't win a video award -- he'll come after me in one of his Lincoln's with a gun :sqeek:


Think about the children folks...


:sqlaugh:

I promise I won't whisper a word of it to him...it'll just be OUR little secret...:sqwink::sqlaugh:

No more beer for you 'til the job's done...:sqmad:

As this is my 1st post here I'll try to make it shorter than "War & peace".Before I pull the trigger & send Rick my cash

I'd like to ask for opinions to make sure I havent "outclevered" my behind into a sling. It is my intent to use my laptop to run the latest "rockit" with my library on a usb hd. But I want to have the drive, my sound cards,my trackball & rubber keyboard all plugged into a powered usb hub. If this type of configuration would work it would go a long way toward preserving my laptop investment.(equipment is dell vostro 1500 core 2 duo at 2.2gh with 4meg of L2 800 fsb 2gig ram running winXp sp2, GE 7 port 2.0 powered usb hub,i/O magic 500gig HD(music stored as wav)logitech trackball,behringer uca202 soundcards)Thanks in advance for any opnions....& yes I may be crazy,but I do unplug my home puter during thunderstorms lol

Sure it'll work -- how well it works, depends...?

Because you are using WAV files, there's going to be a lot more bandwidth being used on the USB bus, as WAVs are just big.

I always try to recommend, that if you are using a USB external drive, try to offload as much stuff from that USB bus as possible, as you can get bottlenecks.

If your computer has more than one USB port, see if they are on separate host buses. If so, plug the drive into one all by itself, and the hub into the other one, and attach the rest of the stuff to that.


On my laptops, I use a PS/2 mouse, which uses a different bus, and helps eliminate some of the bandwidth problems, and I also keep the music on the internal drive, and just keep the externals for backups. That pretty much leaves the USB open for just the sound cards.

Experiment around to find out works best on your system...

Hey SJR...is there a pitch percentage box hidden somewhere in the code?

Booch

Hey SJR...is there a pitch percentage box hidden somewhere in the code?

Booch

Hey Boss,

No, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn once... :sqbiggrin:


The old version had that, so I can put it in the "notebook", and see if I can fit it in my busy schedule (which should get really busy tomorrow, since there is a good chance SP1 for Vista will release) :sqerr:

No, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn once.

Got kicked out and were asked to never come back, huh?

Booch

Hey Rick...just noticed something...hopefully I'm not rehashing something that's already been discussed...

A song's BPM that shows up on the player display doesn't match the BPM that shows in My Library. I assume that the latter is what Rockit calculates when the tracks are loaded into the Library and the former is what's in the tag. What's up with that? :sqconfused:

For example...and don't laugh at the example...

Michael Buble's version of Me & Mrs. Jones shows up in the Rockit Library with a BPM of 100.02. The BPM calculated with the Mixmeister BPM program (I know, I know...) and stored in the tag is 194.01...and this is what shows in the Player display. Interestingly enough, when I open Rockit's tag editor and rescan the song, the BPM comes up at 193.37. I think the 100.02 is the more accurate of the three calculations.

Booch

Yikes...either the goats got loose or Rick really is having a busy day! :sqeek:

Booch

I usually don't think about it Booch.

I mix straight into Air Supply's "All Out Of Love" from that track.

I usually don't think about it Booch.

I mix straight into Air Supply's "All Out Of Love" from that track.

:sqlaugh:

Booch

Yikes...either the goats got loose or Rick really is having a busy day! :sqeek:

Booch

Shower day on the farm :sqerr: :sqeek:


Unlike "normal" houses, we don't get the luxury of doing that everyday during a cold winter.

It's like a major production (like a Val gig), and depending on the weather, maybe 2-3 times a week, if lucky.


The water coming down from the spring is below freezing, so I have to turn off almost everything electric in the house, and crank the water heater up to max (we only have 60 amps for the entire building). Then turn the little electric oil filled heater on for about 4 hours in the bathroom. Then I get a nice, 4 minute long, somewhat warm shower :sqerr:


Wanna trade :sqwink: :sqbiggrin:



Summers are great though :)

So Oh Great Clean One...no ruling on the BPM thingy?

Booch

Oops, sorry -- read the BPM thingy in the wee-wee hours, and forgot -- my bad :sqembarrassed:

Guess I owe you some more kindling :sqlaugh:



When Rockit calculates the BPM on load, it uses the sample time set in the Pre-Processor properties. That is set by default, to 40 seconds. You can change that if you like. :)

The BPM Scan in the library, does an absolute 1 minute, or whole track worth of samples to determine the BPM. That's also settable in the Lib Manager Settings tab.

BIG difference in the world of BPM, whether you use 40 seconds, or 1 or two minutes, to calculate those average values!


MM's scanner works pretty much the same as ours -- it envelopes a bunch of samples, and sets that aside; does the next, etc. Then it tries to figure out an average of those values.

If you see a really high number that doesn't sound right, halve it. If you see a really low number, double it.


Ya see how scientifical BPM is -- it's sorta like feeding goats (only goats are easier) :sqlaugh: :sqwink:

Is there any way to get the Rockit to recognize the BPMs that are already in the tags. Turning the pre-processor off and then loading a library just leaves me with zeros on the deck display.

Booch

PS - Um...do I need to read the manual? :sqlaugh:

I think I might have stumbled across the answer...

Booch

Is there any way to get the Rockit to recognize the BPMs that are already in the tags. Turning the pre-processor off and then loading a library just leaves me with zeros on the deck display.

Works fine for me :)

New skin time :sqbiggrin:

This is called DJM10. Why? Because I happened to be looking at a pic of a Pioneer mixer at the exact moment I had to type a filename in -- we're very sophisticated here on the farm :sqlaugh:

Anywho, it's another widescreen skin, for you lappy folks, and I think it's fairly cool (albeit, I'm biased, since I made it).

Rockit Skins Page Link (http://www.rockit2000.com/DJSoftware/dj-skins.htm)

Note: This skin has a finer feel for the jog wheel (e.g. You can get more positions). That will be a TIP in the Advanced Skinning Tutorial, but for all you "insiders", keeping the little dot to the smallest possible size, gives much better response on the jogs.


http://www.rockit2000.com/images/DJM10760.gif

Will there be a major announcement today? :sqcool:

Booch

Will there be a major announcement today?


Yeah :)

Faith and Mr. Porky got engaged :sqlaugh:

Mr. Porky is her rubber porkypine. I am so miffed -- they didn't even invite me to the engagement party last night... :sqerr: :sqeek: :sqconfused: :sqfrown:

Didn't mean from you! :sqlaugh:

Booch

Well, now you've piqued my interest...


C'mon Boss -- give us the dirt...?

Check your bank account! :sqbiggrin:

Booch

Check your bank account! :sqbiggrin:

Booch

Oooohhhh Nooooooooooooooo -- Hell hath frozen over :sqerr:

Damn, now I'm obligated to talk to you on the phone and stuff :sqeek: :sqwink:

Does this mean we're going steady, and I'm yer Ho... :sqlaugh: :sqbiggrin:



BTW, thank you veddy much for your contribution to the tractor fund. :)
You are now part of Cpt. Rick's elite fighting force (and gardening crew)...

Welcome to the crowd, Booch!

Damn, now I'm obligated to talk to you on the phone and stuff :sqeek: :sqwink:

Just get crackin' on that advanced tutorial... :sqconfused:

Booch

Welcome to the crowd, Booch!

Well, I figured I bug him enough that I might as well buy the software. Now I can continue to bother him without any guilt. :sqlaugh:

Booch

When do the bonus gifts arrive? :sqconfused:

Booch

When do the bonus gifts arrive? :sqconfused:

Booch


As soon as the tractor gets here... :sqlaugh:
Don't tell me yer out of kindlin' already Boss? :sqerr:


Don't worry, I'm working on some new goodies, that should be available late spring/early summer. ;)

They will probably require piercings though :rofl:


Then again, maybe I could do Rockit Bucket Hats :)

Then again, maybe I could do Rockit Bucket Hats

I'd better get the first one! :sqbiggrin:

Booch

He wasnt the only one to contribute to your fund Rick. My contrbution hit last weekend.Now I dont feel so bad about asking my couple of dumb questions. Dumbest one first,? OK,I'll bite,where'd ya hide the place to activate the spftware

He wasnt the only one to contribute to your fund Rick.

I'm just cuter... :sqlaugh:

And the answer is...
Not available at this time.................................

Booch

http://www.eboostr.com/ I found this on either lifehacker or clicked(cant remember ) and it kind of cached my attention.:sqerr: My laptop has a built in card reader and 4 gig is enough space to hold around 100 4:00min wavs, or a program or 2. I just dont know if its worth while to anyone else .. or worth while to even me .

I bring you...

The Mother of all Skins :sqerr:
(until next week anyway)

Impress yer friends, antagonize yer competition, pick up babes!


CDJ400

It slices! It dices! It even entices! :sqcool:

You could spend $1200 for a pair of these, or contribute to the Rockit Tractor Fund Movement (RTFM). A deal like this, has never been dealt before... :)

This offer is only available here, through this link CDJ400Skin (http://www.rockit2000.com/v4skins/CDJ400Skin.exe)

Mainly, because I'm tired, and I'll update the website tomorrow ;) :)



http://www.rockit2000.com/images/CDJ400-760.gif

That sure is purdy!

This calls for a two four!

Hey Rick, I'm currently using the trial, and so far its been great and I'm thinking I will purchase the full version before my next gig. One thing I've noticed thats sort of a problem is the resolution of the skins. My laptop is older, and the native resolution is 1600x1200, however I dont see a skin big enough to fit that. I know a solution is to just turn down the resolution on the computer, but with that comes reduced clarity going out of its native resolution, and sometimes it actually shrinks the screen and has black bars around the sides if the set resolution is anything less then the computer's native resolution.

Thanks in advance
Brian

Get in line Brian...I'm still waiting for my 1280x800! Either that or the tutorial!! :sqconfused:

I like the layout of the dark gray skin that comes with Rockit (because it has all of the lists visable), but I want to get rid of a few things and tweak it a bit for my liking.

Booch

My laptop is older, and the native resolution is 1600x1200

How in the world, can you even read a laptop screen at that resolution... :sqerr:

My big ol' 22" monitors are set to 1280x768, and it's sooo much easier to read text in lists and such :)


Anyway, I'm building 4.something right now, so if anybody else wants to take some of the skins already out there, and adapt them to different resolutions, feel free :sqwink: :sqbiggrin:

Booch,

I think any minor tweaks and changes you want to make, should be covered in the Basic Skinning Tutorial (http://rockitprodj.softjock.com/rockitprodj-tutorials-skinningbasic.htm) I have on the new website. The new website is where you'll find any new stuff I put up, as I'm only still keeping the old rockit2000.com site active, because lots of places are still linked to it.

Until I get the advanced one done (which will probably be when 4.something releases, as I'm adding some features to the skinning part), any particular things you want to do, just ask them here for now, and that will give me some good ideas of what to put in the advanced tutorial... :)

I think any minor tweaks and changes you want to make, should be covered in the Basic Skinning Tutorial

Probably...I just need to sit my a** in a chair for a few hours and work with it.

Until I get the advanced one done (which will probably be when 4.something releases, as I'm adding some features to the skinning part), any particular things you want to do, just ask them here for now, and that will give me some good ideas of what to put in the advanced tutorial... :)

I'll get back to you on that!! :sqbiggrin:

Booch

I be revamping the video jukebox today -- should be much easier to load files (has it's own browser now), and putting in some weird effects and stuff... :)

I be revamping the video jukebox today -- should be much easier to load files (has it's own browser now), and putting in some weird effects and stuff... :)

I'll alert the media...

Booch

Ran my 1st gig with the new software, went without any probs caused by the software(wish I could say the same about my wetware)used the equipment set up the way I discribed earlier.no hickups. Still hoping Rick might respond to my other post from the 19th. I could have been more infomative about the subject. I'm referring to the question about eboostr...it's apparently a 3rd party software version of "Readyboost" for use on winXP. I understant that its not good for long sequential reads.... but I figure the guy that wrote rockit would be the best bet for an opinion on how this would work on a laptop running our fav dj software

Ran my 1st gig with the new software, went without any probs caused by the software(wish I could say the same about my wetware)used the equipment set up the way I discribed earlier.no hickups. Still hoping Rick might respond to my other post from the 19th. I could have been more infomative about the subject. I'm referring to the question about eboostr...it's apparently a 3rd party software version of "Readyboost" for use on winXP. I understant that its not good for long sequential reads.... but I figure the guy that wrote rockit would be the best bet for an opinion on how this would work on a laptop running our fav dj software

Sorry, I must've missed that one... :sqerr:


I took a look at their website, and honestly can't see any benefits from it...

Rockit reads fairly small chunks of the files at a time (mainly determined by the OS, as far as size goes). The cache on the drives is usually larger than you can get from a cheapie memory stick as well. I also find the drives faster than the sticks, in overall read speed and throughput.


In the end though, I figure the less things running in the background, the less chance things will get mucked up somehow... :)

WOW,when I screw things up I dont mess around. After loading all my wavs I found the ol' "good news & bad news". The good news, in around 20-25% of the library all the fields are correct... (in some cases half the song title was split ex I shot the sherrif came out as [artist ] i shot[title]the sherrif]other tags were just as screwy....so.... know of any cheap but fast tag editor to fix in batches what I so elegantly apparently expletive-deleted up? thanks for any suggestions

the ability to do what i want may be in the tag editor in rockit but i must be too dense to figure out how to just "swap" fields until its all fixed and with over 6k songs already done reripping or doing this 1 cut at a time is a horrendous thought.

When Rockit adds WAVs, it will first check to see if they have AudioGrabber ID3 tags at the end, if they are there, it will use that info first. If not, it will use its filename mask to parse the filename for the info. You can edit that mask :)

Go into the Library Manager->Settings tab, and you will see the mask, and it has its own little help screen.

If you switch the mask to what the majority of your files are, and re-add them into the library, you will then have 75-80% right, and a lot less to fix :)

If you know which ones are opposite, you can then switch it back, and add the rest...

What I would do for now, is move the ones that are opposite to a different folder, so you know where they are, and can add them separately, using the opposite mask, until you get them fixed.

Tag&Rename is one of the better batch taggers...

New skin / controller mapper combo. :)

This is virtually a clone of the Denon DN-HC4500, and is meant to be used in conjunction with the 4500, although it can be used stand-alone (for the Denon blue light freaks like me) :) This one took almost a week to build :sqerr: but works well, and lights up mighty pretty in a darkened environment.

The labels on the skin, match what the controller does when it is hooked up to Rockit, and the controller mapper automatically gets updated when you install this skin, to add some functions. Some of the controller commands, have no corresponding skin controls, so they are dummies on the skin, to keep the look as close as possible.

Skins Page Link (http://rockitprodj.softjock.com/rockitprodj-skins.htm)

Enjoy :)

http://www.softjock.com/images/Denon4500-760.gif

Ok, I finally got the mapping description page on the new website for the Denon 4500. This describes what all the controls on the controller do in Rockit (using the new skin/mapper combo above) :)

Denon DN-HC4500 Controller Mapping (http://rockitprodj.softjock.com/rockitprodj-midicontrollers-denondn-hc4500.htm)

I'm still working on the pages for the other mappers...

So...how are things going with Rockit?

Booch

So...how are things going with Rockit?

Just ducky :)

V4.1 is coming along nicely, and will add many new features, a few fixes for some "undocumented features" I've found, etc.

Since I have a migraine today (yes, I had pizza again :sqerr:), not much will be accomplished today, except for bottling a batch of beer -- that will require much testing in itself... :)

...and will add many new features, a few fixes for some "undocumented features" I've found, etc...

Nice! Oh...the suspense is killing me.... :spcheesy:

Booch

...the suspense is killing me.... :spcheesy:

Booch

Me too....I want to taste that homebrew!! :spgrin: :spwink:

Hey Rick...how far down can Rockit read files? Can it be c:/Music/MP3s/Soundtracks?

Also...is there a recommended limit to the number of MP3s you should have in any given folder?

Booch

Hey Rick...how far down can Rockit read files? Can it be C:/Music/MP3s/Soundtracks?

It can recurse as far down as you like, although at a certain point in time, the buffers will probably get overrun, and Windows will probably throw an out of memory error. It's not a practical limit of Rockit though.


Also...is there a recommended limit to the number of MP3s you should have in any given folder?

Not really, other than file system limitations (for example FAT32 drives, can only hold about 65k files in a given folder, although in reality that will be less).

In practical terms, you probably shouldn't have over 10k entries in a given folder, as the file system will start slowing down exponentially above that (that advice comes from Microsoft, I find it slows down much sooner than that).

In Rockit, if you are using the My Computer tree, and highlight a folder with 10k entries, you might as well go out to dinner for awhile, as Rockit scans the tags of the files as it displays them.

If you want the best performance out of your file system, I would keep the number of files in any given folder to under 1000.

So Rick...what's going on in the world we know as Rockit?

Booch

So Rick...what's going on in the world we know as Rockit?


Beats me -- I'm working on Homebrew 2.0 :sqlaugh:


Actually, just taking my time, and going through all the suggestions I've gotten in my notebook, and implementing as much as I can... :)

Good to know you're doing something!

Booch

Good to know you're doing something!


I'm always doing something Boss -- may not be legal, or anything constructive -- but always something :sqlaugh:


Actually, I completely rewrote the MIDI subsystem, as I found a few undocumented features. It seems I focused too much on one particular controller, and by doing so, it introduced some bugs with the others, so this next release will clear all that up. My bad, what can I say...

It also has MIDI learn now, so you can program your own controller.

I'm also fine tuning the skinning, so it will allow more options for controls, and fix a few little quirks that Hank and I found.

4.1. will also allow you to put the sound effects right on the skin as buttons, and also control the sampler itself, so you can put voice drops, effects, songs right on the skin itself as buttons.

So far, I've also added about 70 new commands to our command table -- more details to come soon... ;) :)

Rick......

I haven't played much with the jukebox, but I was wondering if I could use it during a gig sorta like a third player to preview songs. I'd like to have the main keep their auto-mixing, but have the ability to listen to songs in another player (refreshes my old memory).

I have a gig this evening, so I'll be trying it, but thought I'd hit you up prior to see if you had any suggestions.

Sure can :)

You can also use the sound effects sampler. Just set their outputs to the same output you would use to cue, and drag and drop a song in there. Note, when you drag and drop over either one (the black player part), it will show like you can't drop, but you can -- just make sure the player part is not over top of something else you can drop to, or it will go there first :)

I installed your software on my newly built machine running Linux, thru a program called WINE.

It works AMAZINGLY well. A real testiment to a well designed program. The only thing I could not get to work is the CD player, and this could be due to the way my system is set up and does not work 100% the way it should anyway.

congrats on writing such an excellent piece of software.

-James

Thanx for the heads up James :)

I've never actually tested Rockit under Linux with WINE.

I can see the CD player having issues though, as it uses fairly low level Windows calls to the hardware, that might not be transparent through WINE.

Before I release 4.1, I'll try it, and see if there's anything I can do about that...

Thanx for the heads up James :)

I've never actually tested Rockit under Linux with WINE.

I can see the CD player having issues though, as it uses fairly low level Windows calls to the hardware, that might not be transparent through WINE.

Before I release 4.1, I'll try it, and see if there's anything I can do about that...


I am sure you tested Rockit under Linux with BEER, though. :sqlaugh::sqwink:

I can see the CD player having issues though...

Hey Rick...FYI...I was using Rockit's CD player at my reception last night and noticed that it showed as "Idle" even though a cd was playing.

Booch

Hey Rick...FYI...I was using Rockit's CD player at my reception last night and noticed that it showed as "Idle" even though a cd was playing.

Booch


That's a weekend thing Boss -- remember who programmed it :sqlaugh:

Rockit, like its Dad, likes to be idle once in awhile :)

I installed your software on my newly built machine running Linux, thru a program called WINE.

It works AMAZINGLY well. A real testiment to a well designed program. The only thing I could not get to work is the CD player, and this could be due to the way my system is set up and does not work 100% the way it should anyway.

congrats on writing such an excellent piece of software.

-James

I figured someone else would ask the obvious questions but.(dont let my wife see me say this) I was wrong. What flavor penguin did you use. Oh yeah, and how much horse power did you have runnin' under the hood? I've often thought linux might be fun to try but I don't have the geek chops to make a reasonable attempt on running it

After months of practicing with Rockit and my system I finally got to play a gig last Friday night. 200 + people it was a retirment party for the Asst. Fire Chief.
It all went without any troubles, matter of fact the manager of the hall asked if I was free in two weeks cause his dj for a dance backed out, I said sure.
In the audience were two other dj's who came up to see may system and they were amazed at how rockit worked I spent almost half an hour showing them what it can do.

I used Rockit for my daughter's preschool class last week. One of the kids asked me when version 4.1 was coming out and whether it will include tempo lock or an easy-to-create skin tutorial. :sqlaugh:

Booch

Was that kid named Booch? :rofl:

Version 4.1 won't need tempo lock -- it has a built in time machine :sqerr:


All you need, is one gigawatt of power (or a lightning strike) to activate it, and have the secret decoder ring, and know the correct key sequence...

You can then transport you and your audience, to any particular beat in the song, at any time, and at any speed. :sqbiggrin:


Now, as far as the dishwasher, laundry and holographs, you will probably have to wait for 4.2, as I haven't found a reliable source of Dilithium crystals yet... :)

Booch jr? Son of A.............................

Tee hee hee...

Booch

Just an FYI...

I've finally gotten around to testing Rockit on Vista 64 Bit, and it is smokin' :sqbiggrin:

The difference in speed over the 32 bit version of Vista is amazing (course you need the hardware to handle it).

4.1 - 4.1 - 4.1 - 4.1 !! :sqwink:

Booch

Just an FYI...

I've finally gotten around to testing Rockit on Vista 64 Bit, and it is smokin' :sqbiggrin:

The difference in speed over the 32 bit version of Vista is amazing (course you need the hardware to handle it).

I have the hardware ---- just waiting on the darn upgrade! hahaha :sqlaugh:

I have the hardware ---- just waiting on the darn upgrade! hahaha :sqlaugh:


What, you don't have Vista SP1 64 bit yet...?

I actually went and got a copy of the retail version. I have the Enterprise/Corporate unlimited version, but I wanted a copy that everyday people buy off the street, so I could make sure it works ok. It was only $289, and you get both 32 and 64 bit DVDs with it, and it can be transferred to another computer (OEM can't). Tax write off too ;)

When you install it, it has one icon on the desktop -- that's it -- less than 40 processes running, and no extra baggage :sqbiggrin:

You big dummy ---- must I call it out ---- upgrade to RockIt 4.1

You big dummy ---- must I call it out ---- upgrade to RockIt 4.1


How does one upgrade perfection...? :sqcool: :sqbiggrin:


Damn, I crack myself up on Fridays...hehe


Actually, it took 2 1/2 years to do the upgrade from 3.2 to 4.0 -- you in a hurry...?

There's only a couple small bugs in 4.0, and nobody has even noticed them yet -- I found them during some weird overnight testing stuff I did. They are related to the MIDI subsystem, and apparently, not many people use controllers, so they remain unnoticed to this day (or at least nobody has mentioned to me).


So, I look at it like making a new album, of new material -- when I have enough material to make a good one, and it is up to my standards, then I will release it... :sqbiggrin:

You're slap-happy drunk, aren't you? :) LOL!

Something like that... :sqwink: :sqbiggrin: :sqlaugh:

Tasting a bit of Rockit Brew 4.1 today :)

Did I hear someone mention tempo lock? Or key lock????

Still waiting...waiting...waiting...:sqwink::sqlaugh:

Did I hear someone mention tempo lock? Or key lock????

Still waiting...waiting...waiting...:sqwink::sqlaugh:

Damn, you folks are still trying to get me to do yer job for you... :sqlaugh:


I'd have to raise my rates to $1200 for that ;)

Sneek peek :)

This is one of the skins I'm using to develop V4.1, and it looks so purty, I thought I'd show ya all (I'm into that dark wood grain thing) :sqbiggrin:

You can see some of the new stuff on the skins, like a video deck in the middle, analog VU meters, main menu, sound effects buttons, custom column headers, etc. Lots of new stuff under the hood as well...

http://www.softjock.com/images/DarkWood700.gif

Nice...Crush is a good tune!

Booch

Here's another little ditty. Rockit can now replace most soundboard type software that radio jocks use (and costs lots of money). So, if for instance you use somebody else's DJ software (commie :D), you can also have Rockit running along with it for drops, sound effects and songs as well :)

http://www.softjock.com/images/Soundboard.gif

Still trying to find a Tempo/Key Lock button or a Skin Tutorial button...

Booch

Still trying to find a Tempo/Key Lock button or a Skin Tutorial button...

Somehow, I knew that was coming... :sqlaugh: :sqwink:

Still not sure what folks use that stuff for...

Still not sure what folks use that stuff for...

LOL! I like to bump up Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch so people can really groove to it without the Four Tops sounding like the Four Alvins!

Booch

LOL! I like to bump up Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch so people can really groove to it without the Four Tops sounding like the Four Alvins!


Fair enough Boss, but I bring forth a philosophical and legal question or two...


In order to do tempo/key lock (time stretching/shrinking as its actually called), one has to either delete samples, or introduce new samples into a track. In the case of speeding up a song, you must remove samples -- to slow it down, you must introduce samples.

By doing so, you have changed the original recording, and made it your own, without the owners permission.


By using pitch only, you do not change the original source material, only slow down, or speed up the playback of the samples. Same with EQ, you are not changing the samples, only amplifying some of them.


If Joe Blow rockstar gets down on his luck, and needs some cash -- he can easily sue, and win on those grounds.


So far, to the best of my knowledge, nobody has brought suit for that yet... Give it time, and it will happen though -- I don't intend to be the test case ;)

Understood...I just like to bust your chops!

Booch

Here's another little ditty. Rockit can now replace most soundboard type software that radio jocks use (and costs lots of money). So, if for instance you use somebody else's DJ software (commie :D), you can also have Rockit running along with it for drops, sound effects and songs as well :)

http://www.softjock.com/images/Soundboard.gif

Rick,

I would like this.

How?

Dave

Trust me Boss, Rockit has tempo/key lock functions built in. ;)

But, I'm concerned about the performance hit, but that is workable -- more importantly, Ive heard some wisps on the horizons, about the above mentioned stuff.

When the weenies give me a green light, you'll get yer wish :)

Rick,

I would like this.

How?

Dave

You sorta have to wait for V4.1 Dave...
Not long -- it's coming along nicely, if I say so myself :)


You could do a simple one now with V4.0, but I would wait the small bit for 4.1. The feature set has been much improved. ;)

Nice...Crush is a good tune!

Booch

yea great song if you like neon lollies :sqeek:

Fair enough Boss, but I bring forth a philosophical and legal question or two...


In order to do tempo/key lock (time stretching/shrinking as its actually called), one has to either delete samples, or introduce new samples into a track. In the case of speeding up a song, you must remove samples -- to slow it down, you must introduce samples.

By doing so, you have changed the original recording, and made it your own, without the owners permission.


By using pitch only, you do not change the original source material, only slow down, or speed up the playback of the samples. Same with EQ, you are not changing the samples, only amplifying some of them.


If Joe Blow rockstar gets down on his luck, and needs some cash -- he can easily sue, and win on those grounds.


So far, to the best of my knowledge, nobody has brought suit for that yet... Give it time, and it will happen though -- I don't intend to be the test case ;)

That was the most well thought out, written excuse for being lazy I have ever seen. :sqwink:

The pitch correction feature (like the one in VDJ) is something that all DJ software should have. It truly rocks. Sue me.

I freaking LOVE the analog meters! And the round Teac reel to reel style play/stop buttons and the rotary EQ.

When you say a "wee bit more time"...what does that mean exactly? I know you shut in types tend to tell time differently from the rest of us. ;)

I freaking LOVE the analog meters! And the round Teac reel to reel style play/stop buttons and the rotary EQ.

When you say a "wee bit more time"...what does that mean exactly? I know you shut in types tend to tell time differently from the rest of us. ;)

Well, we tell the time, by the amount of beer we drink around these parts -- one beer == about 60 minutes, which means there are 24 beers in a day :sqbiggrin:

A "wee bit of time", is usually just a pallet or two... :sqlaugh:

FYI

The spammers have figured out my support forum mod, which kept their spambots from registering, and depositing porn links all over the board. I will be closing down the register function for a few days, while I figure out how best to deal with it.

It won't affect any registered users on my board, but no new folks will be able to register and post there, until I get the security tightened up a bit.

Damn Commies (yes, they are all coming from China) :sqerr:


Not that many people use that board, but if anybody that does has any questions, just send them via my website support page, or here, or call, or whatever :)

FYI

or whatever :)

Messenger pigeon? :rofl: :sqlaugh:

Messenger pigeon? :rofl: :sqlaugh:

No...messenger goat, of course.

Well, we tell the time, by the amount of beer we drink around these parts -- one beer == about 60 minutes, which means there are 24 beers in a day :sqbiggrin:

A "wee bit of time", is usually just a pallet or two... :sqlaugh:

Then how about, in the meantime, releasing a version of that skin for Rockit 4.0?

Then how about, in the meantime, releasing a version of that skin for Rockit 4.0?

:sqlaugh: :sqlaugh: :sqlaugh:

Actually, 4.1 has a lot more skin functionality, so that skin wouldn't work with 4.0. But, 4.0 skins, will work with 4.1.

I think that makes sense -- although it's early, and I haven't had any beer yet... :)

Sneek peek :)

This is one of the skins I'm using to develop V4.1, and it looks so purty, I thought I'd show ya all (I'm into that dark wood grain thing) :sqbiggrin:

You can see some of the new stuff on the skins, like a video deck in the middle, analog VU meters, main menu, sound effects buttons, custom column headers, etc. Lots of new stuff under the hood as well...

http://www.softjock.com/images/DarkWood700.gif

Wow....now THAT is impressive...more skins like this and I'll be switching to laptop!

THAT is about the nicest looking software skin I have EVER seen. WOW! If I knew that it was as stable as the "older" PCDJ Red 5.2, I'd purchase Rockit right NOW!

(The reason I compare it to the "older" Red 5.2 is because my laptops are slightly older. And run Red 5.2 very stable.) I can't upgrade all my laptops.

Rick - Will 4.1 have the ability to create multiple libraries and select from multiple libraries on the fly and the ability to search all libraries....?

Rick - Will 4.1 have the ability to create multiple libraries and select from multiple libraries on the fly and the ability to search all libraries....?

V4.0 already has multiple library selection -- in fact, it has been in Rockit since V2, way back when I was a mere toddler :)

Just pop on into the Library Manager, and switch libs anytime you like.



Searching them all, is another story...

The searching is done on whatever is the current active library, and loaded into memory (unless using the advanced search function). It's certainly possible to put it in, but would you want it...?

In order to do so, each library has to be loaded into memory (or portions thereof), parsed from XML format, and then searched. The overhead is very high in doing all that file I/O and parsing, and would undoubtedly skip the music playing (I've tried it ;)).

When it comes down to adding features, I always err on the conservative side, and go for the more stable route. :)

THAT is about the nicest looking software skin I have EVER seen. WOW! If I knew that it was as stable as the "older" PCDJ Red 5.2, I'd purchase Rockit right NOW!

(The reason I compare it to the "older" Red 5.2 is because my laptops are slightly older. And run Red 5.2 very stable.) I can't upgrade all my laptops.

Harry,

In all honesty (without blowing my horn too much) -- Rockit is far more stable then anything my friends from Florida have ever come out with :)

It is possible to break it, although you have to work really, really hard to do so. If you rename an Excel spreadsheet to an MP3 file, and try to play it, it might burp -- it may even vomit :sqlaugh:

The only other product on the market that matches in stability, is OTS -- based upon years of testing and comparing...

YMMV, but I do rigorous testing to insure that if it breaks -- it's not the programs fault. Rockit runs on multiple machines 24 x 7 in test mode here at the farm, and it tries it's best to duplicate any basic scenario that may come up. The YMMV, is based upon the fact that some people just like to do weird stuff... :sqerr: :sqbiggrin:

Thanks Rick. I'm going to download it and try it. I keep saying it. Sorta' like dipping the big toe in the pond and promising I'm going to jump in. Just got to take the "swimmys" off my arms.

I'm definitely not a fancy remixer at events. Just an occasional beat mixing. Maybe eventually do some video. Throw in some drops, and we got a party. I don't think I'll put too much pressure on the processors for my use.

Rick so when is 4.1 coming out? and do we need to buy it all over again, be a free upgrade or purchacable upgrade for a less amount?

Rick so when is 4.1 coming out? and do we need to buy it all over again, be a free upgrade or purchacable upgrade for a less amount?

1. When it's finished :)

2. All minor version upgrades are free. In simple terms, that means that if you have a valid purchased (or upgraded) copy of 4.x, you will get any upgrades free, until we get to V5. When we get to 5 a few years down the road, upgrades will be for the price differential (that will be dependent upon how much gas costs then, so I can still mow the lawn, and buy beer). :sqbiggrin:


You're always welcome to send me money if you like though, just for S&G :sqlaugh:


Many of my customers send me Christmas gifts as well, although I prefer things without sugar in them. Cheeses and summer sausages are cool though, along with packets of vegetable seeds, beer, cards, et. al. :)

Time for an update oh great programmer of all that is DJ-able!

Booch

Time for an update oh great programmer of all that is DJ-able!

Tis coming along nicely, oh Honorable Dumpster Diver :)

It would have been out sooner, but it's summertime, and I like being outdoors with my doggie :sqwink:


Actually, I'm adding some stuff that should make it much more functional in certain areas, and it requires complete retesting after each piece of the puzzle I put in. Plus, I'm waiting on some new hardware to arrive, and it needs to be incorporated and tested with that as well...

It will come with as many new skins I can cram into the install without making it too big, and many are dedicated to certain areas of functionality. A few of the skins are made specifically for touch screen PCs, like the HP and that sort...


I shall work diligently to get it out as quickly as possible, although I don't like to work TOO hard during the nice weather :)

Maybe if you bribed him with enough beer, he'd send you a pre-release copy Booch! :sqwink:

Maybe if you bribed him with enough beer, he'd send you a pre-release copy Booch! :sqwink:

Believe it or not -- The Garbage King himself, is one of SoftJock's semi-official beta testers :)
I have to say semi-official, otherwise he'd want money or something...hehe


Hell, he broke like 3 of my pens too :sqerr:

You ever get the bucket hat back Chief...?

Garbage King himself, is one of SoftJock's semi-official beta testers :)

You ever get the bucket hat back Chief...?

That I is! Never received the original back, but I have #2 with me.

Booch

Thought I'd give you fine folks an update...

Just started working on the install for V4.1, so it should be ready in a few weeks or so.

Booch, you will get your wish in 4.2, as I haven't quite got the tempo/key lock perfected yet, but it's real close to meeting my standards. I don't want to hold this release much longer, as it has some nice features (besides, Rockit has a planned upgrade schedule, that I am trying to hold to).

Here's a shot of one of the new jukebox screens -- this was somewhat inspired from my Mac, and can be used at home, or for a rental touch screen machine, if you want to rent out jukeboxes (it will come with both standard, and wide screen versions, that should work great with the HP Touch Smart):

http://www.softjock.com/images/rockitbackrow.gif

That's it, it's all over with.. Rick got a mac and went all Aqua eye candy on us. :D

It looks great, Rick! :) I think it looks more like Vista Aero than Mac Aqua, IMO.

That's it, it's all over with.. Rick got a mac and went all Aqua eye candy on us. :D

It looks great, Rick! :) I think it looks more like Vista Aero than Mac Aqua, IMO.

Yeah, I would have to agree :)

I like Front Row on the Mac, as it's way easy to work for the average person, but I like the look of Aero better. So, it's sort of a hybrid...

I basically tried to take the interface of Front Row, and marry it to a skin for Windows. It's pretty cool, but very simple, no major bells and whistles.

Even the Karaoke folks can probably figure it out... :sqlaugh: :sqwink:

Rick, what's your upgrade policy?

Thought I'd give you fine folks an update...

Just started working on the install for V4.1, so it should be ready in a few weeks or so.

Booch, you will get your wish in 4.2, as I haven't quite got the tempo/key lock perfected yet, but it's real close to meeting my standards. I don't want to hold this release much longer, as it has some nice features (besides, Rockit has a planned upgrade schedule, that I am trying to hold to).

Here's a shot of one of the new jukebox screens -- this was somewhat inspired from my Mac, and can be used at home, or for a rental touch screen machine, if you want to rent out jukeboxes (it will come with both standard, and wide screen versions, that should work great with the HP Touch Smart):

http://www.softjock.com/images/rockitbackrow.gif

Will it have that cool skin from post #342?

Rick, what's your upgrade policy?


Whatever I can get outta ya...? :sqlaugh: :sqwink:


Actually, if you are a registered user of V4 -- you get all upgrades free, until we get to V5 :)

At my casual rate of once or twice a year updates, that should be a couple years down the road (unless some major advance comes on the scene)...

Will it have that cool skin from post #342?

Yep :)

WOO HOO! Now all I need is a "Skins For Dummies" book and I'll be a happy boy!

Booch

(Yes...I realize I've left myself wide open with the above statement...have at it...)

Just to keep you folks updated...

I have built the install for 4.1, and am doing final testing and beating up of the program (read: playing DJ for the next few days) :)

It will ship with 11 skins (8 new ones), and as usual, install to a new folder. It will no longer include the manual, as I am making that a separate download (or view online) in order to be able to update it better, and lower the download size of the program (it is only about 5 MB now :)).

If you are a currently registered user of 4.0, it will carry over your reg information (if legally purchased), and your library and playlist files.

When I actually release (which if all goes well, will be next week), I'll put release notes up, so you can see what stuff actually made it into this version.

Devil - "Hello?"
Booch - "Hello. Is this Hell?"
Devil - "Yes. What do you want?"
Booch - "Just calling for a check on the weather there."
Devil - "Well...it's hot, but I'm starting to feel a chill in the air."
Booch - "OK...thanks."

You know I'm a big Eagles fan Boss... :sqwink: :sqbiggrin:

Wow Booch that pretty much speaks volumes. Rick you going to take that kind of ribbing?

It's not too late, for the Boss to make it into the credits of this version...

I'm thinking maybe some Sam Adams, or Heiny's... :sqlaugh:

It's not too late, for the Boss to make it into the credits of this version...

WOO HOO! I'm still in the will! :sqlaugh:

Booch

Ok, V4.1 is now the download on the site :)

http://rockitprodj.softjock.com/index.htm

The website has not been updated to say that, but trust me, it is the new one :sqbiggrin:

I'll get around to updating the site and the manual, over the next few days. The new version does NOT ship with a manual (at least the download version), but hopefully, you won't need it right away, because the somewhat official release notes follow ;)

It will install to a new folder, and carry over V4.0 reg information (if legal), and your library and playlists. Everything else has to go back to factory defaults, because there's a lot of new stuff.


Rockit V4.1 Release Notes


Bug fixes:

MIDI Subsystem completely redone, with Vista updates.
Fixed problem with monitor decks not working right, when crossfader all the way to one side.


New Features:

Main menu available on skins.
Library analyzer (for the folks who use Limewire, and garbage tags ;) ).
Main deck audio effects (echo, flange and rotate).
View by BPM.
Video on skins.
Video jukebox updated (separate from above).
Jukebox mode.
Export playlists to text file (quick, so you can put them on ODJT).
Show video and image files in main track list.
Add only new files in folder to library.
MIDI Learn utility.
Expandable window for popup lists.
PCM Gain control for monitor sound card.
New skins.
Much smaller install download (about 5 MB) -- the manual is on the website (haven't updated it yet).

A bunch of other stuff I forgot already :)

So, if you are using a customized skin, you're going to have to reset everything back to your preferences?

The skins should work fine Randy -- although there have been major enhancements in that area.

What will be reset (on 4.1), is stuff like gain levels, column widths, sound cards back to zero, window positions, etc.

It won't effect the 4.0 version, only 4.1.

So, I can upgrade, but there will be two instances of RockIt on my machine. I can continue using 4.0 until I have 4.1 tweaked?

So, I can upgrade, but there will be two instances of RockIt on my machine. I can continue using 4.0 until I have 4.1 tweaked?

Yupper :)

Hey Son,

I fixed yer name in the credits, and added an additional comment :sqlaugh:

Booch is in there now as well, along with Dan :)


Amuse me, and even YOU too, might make the 4.2 credits... :sqcool:

Rick,

Just got done downloading to my desk top. One thing I see is that V4.1 doesn't throw the yellow exclimation mark when the file is broken like 4.0 did. That was handy.

Still no drag-n-drop in the auto-mix que? Damn, I'm going to have to start bitching every few days to get any of my requests. :(

BTW, super fast loading the songs into the players!

Figured out the bad link option.........gotta turn it on. :)

What's 'Deprecated' mean?

Rick,

Just got done downloading to my desk top. One thing I see is that V4.1 doesn't throw the yellow exclimation mark when the file is broken like 4.0 did. That was handy.

Still no drag-n-drop in the auto-mix que? Damn, I'm going to have to start bitching every few days to get any of my requests. :(

BTW, super fast loading the songs into the players!

The Show Bad Links, is turned off by default now. You can enable it if you like in the Config->General. It was too slow when folks are using external drives, because it has to check for file existence.

I listened about the queues, so there are commands available, that you can map to keyboard shortcuts, to move things around. It is up to you to map them to whatever keyboard commands you like.

The drag & drop stuff in Rockit, is over 5,000 lines of code alone -- I did not want to break that, so I just added the extra commands ;)

What's 'Deprecated' mean?

Means don't screw with it, or you may break the program :sqwink:

Got it. so when I download 4.1 is it a trial or the full version? Also How come some of the skins not work in 4.1? I really liked silver 800x600, but does not work in 4.1.

Got it. so when I download 4.1 is it a trial or the full version? Also How come some of the skins not work in 4.1? I really liked silver 800x600, but does not work in 4.1.

Works fine here???

It would have been nice if all the skins from 4.0 were in 4.1.........but it's no biggie to copy them over as long as a person knows what their doing.

I have honestly, not tested every old skin with 4.1 -- not enough hours in the day.

I made quite a bit of changes to the skinning system, so some may need to be updated.

If you have specific questions, let me know, and I can tell you how to fix them :)

Rick I do not even see the one referenced above as a download option any longer, I copied it to 4.1 but did not work. When I try to open it it say no image available. Am I doing something wrong?

V4.1, installs to a new folder -- separate entity.

If you want one of the older skins from V4,0, you need to copy the skin xml file, along with it's associated folder, to the V4.1 folder, or download and install from the website.

Rick I copied the entire skin file over to 4.1 from 4.0 I did a copy and paste of the whole silver 600X800 file. Also I do not see it on the website any longer. No biggie, I found another one that I like as well.

Yeeeessss my preciousssss...

My precious DarkWood skin...

Mine...finally mine...all mine!

MWAHAHAHA...MWAHAHAHA...*cough, cough*...gag...cough...

...water...need some, cough...water over here please...

Well, not a lot of feedback on 4.1 so far, but sales are good -- I think that's a good thing :sqbiggrin:

Do appreciate any feedback, suggestions, etc. though...


I can't lie, I already have more than half of V4.2 done already (I worked hard this summer), but I need to fix the floors before winter strikes. So, I ordered this high-tech conferencing mic array, so I can actually do support while I'm working the next couple of weeks -- the farm is getting very high-tech :)


So, if you have anything you want, please feel free to place it here, or email me, and I will do my best to get what you want into the software.


If I get all this hard work done, hopefully, I can open up the bar/showroom, so folks can come and play with the software, have a cold one, and maybe have the Woodstock fest next summer... :)

I'll be loading it up on the gig machine this weekend and playing with it. But, I'm not sure I'll add anymore comments......I just want the simple things in life, but they appear to be too much work for ya. ;)

I'll be loading it up on the gig machine this weekend and playing with it. But, I'm not sure I'll add anymore comments......I just want the simple things in life, but they appear to be too much work for ya. ;)

What is it that you seek?

Just another tip, as I was thinking about the drag and drop stuff.

You can have the deck queues open separately in Rockit, and use them for a staging area. For example, in this screenshot, I am using a standard 4:3 skin, on a wide screen monitor. So I put deck A's queue to the right empty side of the screen, and can drag and drop right from that area, to the decks. :)

I honestly haven't had a lot of time to play with it.

I have, currently, no use for video. Can I swap out the video module for the Auto-mix? I did see that Auto-mix is still there as a right clik option.

Hmm...since I haven't used it at a gig yet, I didn't notice until you mentioned it that the deck ques are not visible.

I honestly haven't had a lot of time to play with it.

I have, currently, no use for video. Can I swap out the video module for the Auto-mix? I did see that Auto-mix is still there as a right clik option.

Hmm...since I haven't used it at a gig yet, I didn't notice until you mentioned it that the deck ques are not visible.

I assume you are using the DarkWood skin :)


Yeah, you could make all the video stuff invisible, and drop one of the queues in the same coordinate space in the skin file :)

It would then look like this :)

Rick, if I have a skin smaller than my screen and I move it's position, is there a way to make Rockit remember that positon and open it there all the time?

Rick, if I have a skin smaller than my screen and I move it's position, is there a way to make Rockit remember that positon and open it there all the time?

Just set the positions in the skin file.

For example, change the x and y coords for the background image. You will also have to change the coords for deckadrop and deckbdrop, if you want them to match.

These are the lines of interest in the skin file:


<background image="DarkWood.bmp" x="0" y="0" width="1024" height="734" type="DJ Std"/>

<deckAdrop x="042" y="039" r="352" b="277"/>
<deckBdrop x="668" y="039" r="1013" b="277"/>
<videodrop x="372" y="039" r="643" b="277"/>

Just set the positions in the skin file.

For example, change the x and y coords for the background image. You will also have to change the coords for deckadrop and deckbdrop, if you want them to match.

These are the lines of interest in the skin file:


<background image="DarkWood.bmp" x="0" y="0" width="1024" height="734" type="DJ Std"/>

<deckAdrop x="042" y="039" r="352" b="277"/>
<deckBdrop x="668" y="039" r="1013" b="277"/>
<videodrop x="372" y="039" r="643" b="277"/>

Thanks, I knew that. :sqconfused:

Thanks, I knew that. :sqconfused:

Why'd ya ask then... :sqlaugh: :sqbiggrin:

Rockit can't remember it, because it doesn't know which skin you might choose on startup. That's why it draws all that info from the skin file.

Used it last night boss...love it!

Booch

Did you use the beta, or the release?

I fixed a couple things for the release, as per yer comments :)

I used the old version....I had the beta on the laptop and haven't downloaded the release yet. I have to teach myself how to format the skin but, like you, have a basement project that needs my attention. Once it becomes the Man Cave I'll have more time...

Booch

I used the old version....I had the beta on the laptop and haven't downloaded the release yet. I have to teach myself how to format the skin but, like you, have a basement project that needs my attention. Once it becomes the Man Cave I'll have more time...

Booch

Don't remind me Boss -- Come Tuesday, I have to start on those floors :sqerr:


The last 3-4 months, I've been working 12-16 hours a day, and Faith basically destroyed downstairs, and I basically destroyed upstairs.

Time to pay the Piper... :sqeek: :sqembarrassed:

Rick,

I have a question!!!!

My Dj files are named with artist and title information only, do the files have to be tagged properly to work with Rock It or will the program read them regardless?

Rick,

I have a question!!!!

My Dj files are named with artist and title information only, do the files have to be tagged properly to work with Rock It or will the program read them regardless?

No, but it is preferred Steve :)

In Rockit's Library Manager->Settings tab, there is a filename mask, with it's own little help screen. You can set it to read the filename the way you have your files set up, if it can't find the tag info.

Also, Rockit has a built in tag editor, and multi-file tag editor, if you want to update your tags. Not as extensive as a full-fledged tag editor like Tag&Rename, but it will do the job :)

...taking a break from nailing baseboard to pop in...

Boss...do I need to uninstall the Beta before installing the release?

Booch

...taking a break from nailing baseboard to pop in...

Boss...do I need to uninstall the Beta before installing the release?

Booch


I would.

It should go over top fine (in my tests, it overlays fine), but I would do so just to get everything cleaned out, and back to status quo Boss...

OK Rick, had an issue tonight. I created an new library today. Opened the library and could look up the songs file by file, but when I searched for it it would not show up, until I added it to the song individually to the library. Why would that happen?

OK Rick, had an issue tonight. I created an new library today. Opened the library and could look up the songs file by file, but when I searched for it it would not show up, until I added it to the song individually to the library. Why would that happen?

Not sure... Works for me :)

The only thing I can think of, is you created the lib, and didn't switch to it before adding your music. Rockit doesn't automatically switch to a new library when you create it -- you need to tell it to switch in the Library Manager.

After you create one, make sure you double-click on the newly created one, and it will then show as the active library, then go to the Track Manager tab, and add your files.

Rick,

I tried your handy-dandy multi-tag tool. It worked great, except it didn't update the songs within the created RockIt playlists. It changed the RockIt library and Windows library, just not the playlists. Is this by design?

Thanks Rick I will try it again today.

Rick,

I tried your handy-dandy multi-tag tool. It worked great, except it didn't update the songs within the created RockIt playlists. It changed the RockIt library and Windows library, just not the playlists. Is this by design?

Sorta :)

The playlists, are actually full libraries themselves -- the only difference, is the filename extension. That's why songs can exist in a playlist, and not be in a library (or they can be in both, or many).

If you update a whole bunch of tags, you need to update the playlist tags as well, in the Playlist Editor -- just Select All, and click the Tag Upd button, and it will re-read and update the playlist.

Probably should be a utility to run through all the playlists and update, but there was a reason I didn't do that -- unfortunately, I don't remember at the moment, what it was. I'll have to go back through my notes and check that out...

I'll get back to ya on that one... :)

Tried the Playlist Editor -> Tag Upd. Worked like a charm.

Probably something about that in the Manual that I've never read.

Hey Rick, I was just thinking about the search. I had to have it set on the right play list, I think. I have 2 hard drives, 2 play lists, one for each drive. I had that one open run run off of drive one. I will pllay with it more today.
Thanks for all of the help by the way, you da man!!!

Oh yeah another question, is there any way to set it to mono?

Oh yeah another question, is there any way to set it to mono?


Not within Rockit itself, although you should be able to, depending on your particular output setup.

On my mixer for example, each input has mono/stereo selector, and the mains out have it as well.

Not sure what mixer you have, but you should be able to figure out something. The final output stage, is really the best place to down convert to mono, as it works a lot faster than having the decoder try to do it. Almost all MP3 files, are in joint stereo mode, so the samples are interleaved, L, R, L, R, etc...

Some rippers allow you to choose mono on the rip -- but I've found that they usually come out as joint stereo either way...

Yeah I knew I could do it on the Mixer, did not know if it could be set in Rock it. Thanks

J
<background image="DarkWood.bmp" x="0" y="0" width="1024" height="734" type="DJ Std"/>

<deckAdrop x="042" y="039" r="352" b="277"/>
<deckBdrop x="668" y="039" r="1013" b="277"/>
<videodrop x="372" y="039" r="643" b="277"/>

OK, I've decided it's too much work for me to move all the coords every time. It would be great if I could use (or make) a skin like the RockitSidebar and be able to move it freely with all the coords following (like most media players do).
Also, when I close it, Windows would remember where I had it and open it there the next time.

OK, I've decided it's too much work for me to move all the coords every time. It would be great if I could use (or make) a skin like the RockitSidebar and be able to move it freely with all the coords following (like most media players do).
Also, when I close it, Windows would remember where I had it and open it there the next time.

Only a Red Sox fan would ask for that... :sqlaugh:


Can't help ya on the main skin background coords (that's set in stone, and can only be changed within the skin file), the drag and drop coords are on my update list though. They reside in that part of the code that is "evil" though, so that will take some time to pull apart, and redo...


Hank already knows this, but for others, I'll throw it out there...

When I redesigned Rockit for V4.x, I tried to take myself out of the loop as much as possible -- meaning the user gets to do their own tweaking to most everything.

I do the major upgrades to Rockit's API, but you get to do the rest, if you choose to accept that mission... :sqwink: :sqbiggrin:

It's sort of a DJ OS, so to speak, and I wanted to allow the most flexibility on the user's part, so I don't have to make changes that often, and the changes I make, are mainly to allow more flexibility on your part.


There are plenty of "Easter Eggs" and undocumented features (not bug types) in Rockit -- I don't even remember all of them...


So, you can play with it just the way it is out of the box, but you can also do lots of interesting stuff with it, that may not seem apparent at first glance... ;)

Rick,

Another question!

How do I resize Rock It to fit the resolution of my screen?

Right now Rock It is bigger than my screen!

Rick,

Another question!

How do I resize Rock It to fit the resolution of my screen?

Right now Rock It is bigger than my screen!


You don't Steve. Rockit is totally dependent on the skin file for the size.

Some windows, like the pop up queues, are re sizable, but the main skin is not -- it all depends on who wrote the skin, and what size they made it.

If you don't want to get involved in skin changes, the easiest thing to do, is change your desktop properties, to match the size of the skin you want. Only takes a few seconds, and then you can change it back after your session. :)

Rick, I know (and did that) but being nearly blind I need that extra large stuff on the screen LOL.

I guess I will do that and see how I do Rock It will be on a dedicated lap top anyway.

I am going to give it the old evaluation try for a few days and see how I do with it.

Thanks

Thanks Rick I will try it again today.

Did a new library and it work fine now

Rick, I know (and did that) but being nearly blind I need that extra large stuff on the screen LOL.

I guess I will do that and see how I do Rock It will be on a dedicated lap top anyway.

I am going to give it the old evaluation try for a few days and see how I do with it.

Thanks

My pleasure Steve :)

If I can help ya out, I will. Shoot me an email, or give a holler on the phone (not today, it is Labor Day, and I am doing very little labor today) :sqlaugh: :sqbiggrin:


Gonna grab a cold one, and play frisbee with my little girl :)

Rick,

I use the RockIt library because of how quick it is, but when updating my monthly subscription, it would be handy to be able to pop open my windows tree without going into the skin file. Is that possible?

It's easy to add to the Library without the need for it, but I keep a Playlists for my subsciptions (by year) and I need to drag those songs over to that playlist.

Or, is there an easier way that I'm not seeing?

Randy, you can use a smaller skin to allow yourself to use the windows trees instead. You can then drag n drop into the players or your playlist. You can also use the PC tree view within Rockit instead of the Library view. The only draw back is the Rockit tree is a "+" "-" tree.

Randy, you can use a smaller skin to allow yourself to use the windows trees instead. You can then drag n drop into the players or your playlist. You can also use the PC tree view within Rockit instead of the Library view. The only draw back is the Rockit tree is a "+" "-" tree.

I'm aware Hank, but I find the RockIt Library runs much faster and smoother thatn the Windows tree. And, I need all the room I can get on my screen as it is, until I upgrade to a new & larger lappy. Thanks for trying to help.

Hey Rick..
Can you add a Hot Asian in 4.2 for me? Me wuv you long time!

Hey folks........thought I'd pass on a little FYI. I was in a hurry last night after my gig and I didn't shut down RockIt prior to shutting down my computer. Lost the entire playlist. I can only assume it auto saves upon shut down of the program. My fault, not RockIt's.......just didnt' want anyone else to make the stupid mistake.

Hey folks........thought I'd pass on a little FYI. I was in a hurry last night after my gig and I didn't shut down RockIt prior to shutting down my computer. Lost the entire playlist. I can only assume it auto saves upon shut down of the program. My fault, not RockIt's.......just didnt' want anyone else to make the stupid mistake.

That would be correct -- it saves the play history on shut down :)

Hey Rick, I have a question for you.

Would it be hard to add DRM to the software? Is there some kind of liscensing you have to get to do that kind of thing.

The reason i'm asking is I'm thinking of buying a canadian primecuts digibeats subscription. Their digital drive is proprietary encryption tho. :(

All the music i could possibly need plus your software would be really kickass, but I don't know if it would be worth the extra hassle for you.

But as my mom always says, it never hurts to ask..

thanks in advance

-James

Hey Rick, I have a question for you.

Would it be hard to add DRM to the software?

Yes and no, but it won't happen either way... :)


Is there some kind of liscensing you have to get to do that kind of thing.

The reason i'm asking is I'm thinking of buying a canadian primecuts digibeats subscription. Their digital drive is proprietary encryption tho. :(

I honestly have no idea on how their DRM works, so I can't speak to what is involved.


The reason Rockit doesn't play protected content, is thus:

1) Principle -- I don't believe in it for DJ use (or any use, for that matter).

2) Support -- It's a nightmare. Right now, I do very little support for my software, and it's usually simple stuff (you'd be surprised how many people don't know how to plug in an external drive, or turn on their computer). :sqerr:

Playing protected content, means the user has to manage their licenses for each song, and make sure they are available on their internal/external drives, etc. As you can see above, many have a hard time plugging in a cable.


After many years of speaking with my colleagues who write music software, I have come to a conclusion -- if you leave out playing protected content, and ASIO sound drivers, you eliminate roughly 60-70% of support issues, the software is much more stable, and much easier to use.

That means my customers still get to talk to me, and not some guy in India :sqbiggrin:

Just thought I'd throw an update out here for y'all :)

V4.2 is coming along nicely, albeit taking longer than I would like, due to many new features and speed enhancements...

Here's a shot of one of the skins I'm using to develop it with -- can you tell I like my iPod...? :D

http://www.softjock.com/images/rockit42.gif

Where will the clock be at on the update?

Where will the clock be at on the update?

Where ever the skin designer puts it... :sqbiggrin:

I don't use it (I have dual monitors, with Vista's clock in the sidebar on the second one), so no need for it on this skin I'm using. If I release this skin, you could always change it to visible in the skin file, and put it where you want it :)

This skin is not nearly done -- just something I'm using to test the new controls. I may not even release it with this skin included...

Just thought I'd throw an update out here for y'all :)

V4.2 is coming along nicely, albeit taking longer than I would like, due to many new features and speed enhancements...

Here's a shot of one of the skins I'm using to develop it with -- can you tell I like my iPod...? :D

http://www.softjock.com/images/rockit42.gif

You're a damn tease, Rick!! :rofl: :sqwink:

Then, not knowing if you'll release it. :sqconfused:

will the next version have pitch/ key lock?

will the next version have pitch/ key lock?

Don't know -- what's in it for me...? :sqlaugh:


The current version, has very nice pitch control. As for key lock, you'd have to read further back in this thread, to find the answer... ;)

Rick,
This may be a little off topic but I've been looking at the HP Touchsmart 22" Desktops and it runs on Vista Home Premium 64-bit. I have Rockit 4.1 and wondered if it will run on Vista 64-bit.
Thanks!

DJ Dave
www.djrudd.com

Rick,
This may be a little off topic but I've been looking at the HP Touchsmart 22" Desktops and it runs on Vista Home Premium 64-bit. I have Rockit 4.1 and wondered if it will run on Vista 64-bit.
Thanks!

DJ Dave
www.djrudd.com


Sure does Dave -- Rockit's been developed on Vista 64 bit for some time now :)

I haven't gotten a TouchSmart to test yet (that may be one of those end of year tax write offs though). My guess, is that they come loaded with a lot of unnecessary junk on them, since they are basically designed as an all in one home entertainment system.

So, you can probably expect to take some time to uninstall a lot of the stuff, to get it up to speed for DJ use...


One thing to note -- from what I understand, the 22" version is not wall mountable, only the 25" are. That may be of concern to you, if you were planning on using it mounted to your rig. I'm not sure if that's changed on the latest 22" models, so do your checking. It would be much easier to mount to a rig, if it has VESA mounts...

Rick,
Thanks for the reply and glad to hear that Vista 64-bit will work with Rockit. Just wanted to check before I make the final purchase decision. My wife and I checked one out at Circuit City and it was a really sweet set-up. The wow factor is there too!
I'm more intestested in the large screen (not getting any younger) and the touchscreen than all of the other software. I just wish I could call HP and tell them to save their employees time and leave off all the extra software (hmmm..may be worth a try).
Probably won't rack mount it because I use a Base Tonematch T1 and plang on buidling a custom case (just like Hank) for it and a backup laptop.
Thanks again!

DJ Dave
www.djrudd.com

I'm more intestested in the large screen (not getting any younger) and the touchscreen than all of the other software. I just wish I could call HP and tell them to save their employees time and leave off all the extra software (hmmm..may be worth a try).
www.djrudd.com


Probably won't have much luck there Dave -- humans don't install the software. They clone drives, and just pop them in during the manufacture process...

Will you still be able to get at the side mounted ports, if you build a case around it...?

Rick,
Interesting...I didn't know that about the software and hard drives.

On the customized box, I'm only looking at building it for the Bose Tonematch and my backup laptop. The HP Touchsmart would sit right beside it as it would on a desk. Since it appears that I can adjust the angle of the screen, I believe that I should be able to see it okay.

With the Tonematch, all I need is one USB port and then the power cord on the Touchsmart so it will be a pretty easy setup.

I just re-read my previous post and I did say I was going to build a case for the Touchsmart..duh!

Thanks,

DJ Dave
www.djrudd.com

I tried to keep the new library format as small as possible, so it would load and save quicker, and sort and search faster. :

My experience with conventional searching in windows explorer had me worried about using DJ software and being able to find a tracks fast enough.

This is lightning fast(1500 MP3 tracks in my library) and I will now be ripping the rest of my CDs. I don't know why I waited so long.

I'll see you guys in a couple of months...

I'm only on page 5 of this thread so far...

Rick, you'll be happy to know one of the first things I did was print out the manual!