Making a 45min mix for my aqua fit class

[Annieshi]

I'm an Aqua fit instructor that is cringing at 80% of the "Workout Mixes" available online. I've been playing around with the Cross DJ Free App hoping to sync the bpm of songs, merge their beginnings/ends so that I have a fluid 45-min playlist to upload to my iPod Nano for my classes. I've played with the bpm of my songs. I'm slowly understanding how to merge the songs but I'm not sure how to do the rest to achieve my 45-min iPod mix for classes. Can it be done? If so, how? And, please know you're giving instructions to a beginner. I want to use songs from my iTunes library. Thank you in advance.

[RoJeC]

To be able to record a mix you need Cross DJ as the Free version doesn't allow for this.

An alternative to making mixes for iPod could be to use the android or iOS version of Cross by using playlists. All Cross version work with autoplay options. All Cross version use auto transitions that make the beat keep flowing (if BPM not extreem off).

for a 45min mix when using Mac/PC version:
select your tracks, e.g. to Prepare. Select all tracks in Prepare (CTRL-A), right click and select Analyse (all).

Load track 1;track 2 to other deck. Cross Fader to left. Start recording. Start deck A. Towards the end of A start B and by moving Cross Fader to the right B is mixed in.
Load next...

Further a lot of details in working will improve your mixing.
- Selecting tracks: get familiar with Key as for keeping the flow or changing it your mix will fit your needs better (google wheel of Camelot). Basic is using same or neighbouring key. But in this case also check jumping "+/-3 steps + Minor<>Majeur".

- When using Cross fader first reduce Low (to 0) of 'next deck'. By the end of fader range turn low in. (by this you only have one track with the beat).

- Try working with the cycle (16 beats=4 bars=1cycle)

- The Main volume has to be full open to record at "Line level". This is a general default for recording and equipment.

- Once recorded you may want to convert to e.g. MP3 or AAC(=M4A)

Just some suggestions... feel free to ask some more.

[Annieshi]

Thank you for your advise. I'll get Cross DJ and follow your instructions for mixing. I do have a few more questions just for clarification.
If I use the iOS version of Cross DJ and record my playlist, I need to be able to control my BPM. My class starts at 128 moves to 130 and stays there until cool down. Being able to control this is essential for me, so will I be able to do this?
The other essential component is being able to then upload this playlist onto my iPod nano or iPod 5 which then plugs into the sound system at the pool. Will I be able to do this?
Thank you for keeping your instructions simple for me. You have no
idea how much I appreciate this.

[haga46]

Thank you for your advise. I'll get Cross DJ and follow your instructions for mixing. I do have a few more questions just for clarification.
If I use the iOS version of Cross DJ and record my playlist, I need to be able to control my BPM. My class starts at 128 moves to 130 and stays there until cool down. Being able to control this is essential for me, so will I be able to do this?
The other essential component is being able to then upload this playlist onto my iPod nano or iPod 5 which then plugs into the sound system at the pool. Will I be able to do this?
Thank you for keeping your instructions simple for me. You have no
idea how much I appreciate this.

- A 2 BPM difference won't be any problem
- Like Rojec said convert your mix to MP3 (most common) and there won't be a problem to upload your playlist (if you could do this before you can do it now)

Have fun

[RoJeC]

You best start with getting somewhat familiar with the steps. Just start by doing like 3/4 tracks a few times.

- Enable QUANT(ize) with value = 4 (or else 1). Value 4 makes the Next track start at the first downbeat of the beatcycle of the current track. With value 1 it will start at the next downbeat.

- R key is by default set for start/stop Recording. The actual output being recorded is set in Preferences; like default location. 'Mix' is the output you need for this.

- The Pitch (vertical) faders are used to adjust the BPM manually. You can select the BPM range (upto 100). Mode Hybrid is usually best (not Speed or Master Tempo)

[Annieshi]

I bought the Cross DJ app from the iTunes store at $39.95. Can't find any way of recording my mix, so I'm assuming I bought the wrong product. What do I need to buy, and can I exchange products?
Just got it! Woohooooooo! Goodbye 'ready-mix' aerobics music!
Thank you for your help.

[Stormcaller]

I bought the Cross DJ app from the iTunes store at $39.95. Can't find any way of recording my mix, so I'm assuming I bought the wrong product. What do I need to buy, and can I exchange products?
Just got it! Woohooooooo! Goodbye 'ready-mix' aerobics music!
Thank you for your help.

Record button is 5th button along on the top row of icons. Click that, record your mix,

After you finish, click it again to stop recording, If you look in the "recording" part of preferences (first, cog shaped button on top row) it will show you what folder it recorded it in and you can copy it from there.

[Stormcaller]

Also, as you bought it on the app store, I recommend you follow the directions below to get your licence key:

viewtopic.php?f=259&t=34199

Then put the licence code in your forum profile. That way you can download free updates as and when they are released.

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask