One of the most critical yet overlooked aspects of preparing our music library is beatgrid analysis. A properly set beatgrid can drastically enhance your DJ performance, helping you nail those precise transitions. Most DJ apps have one analysis method so the choice is easy but Rekordbox provides different beatgrid analysis methods, with additional options which can be confusing for new DJs. In this post, we'll explore the differences between Rekordbox's beatgrid analysis types, explain special features like BPM range, cloud analysis, radar analysis, and concurrent process mode—helping you master your DJ setup.
Static vs. Dynamic Analysis
Static Analysis
Static analysis in Rekordbox is ideal for tracks with a steady, unchanging tempo. This method creates a single BPM marker at the start of the track, maintaining consistent timing throughout. If you're playing house, techno, EDM, or any electronic music style with a fixed tempo, static analysis is typically your best choice.
- Perfect for electronic dance music with constant BPM.
- Fastest analysis type available.
- Easier to mix due to consistent beatgrids.
Verdict: Use for EDM.
Dynamic Analysis
Dynamic analysis is a lifesaver for tracks with fluctuating tempos—think live recordings, classic funk, disco, or rock. Rekordbox places multiple beat markers throughout the track, adjusting whenever it detects a tempo shift. This makes dynamic analysis highly versatile, though slightly more resource-intensive.
- Ideal for live performances, older recordings, or genres with tempo variations.
- More accurate synchronization for complex rhythms.
- Takes longer to analyze than static analysis.
Verdict: Use for live recorded music like rock or old funk/disco.
High Precision Analysis
Both static and dynamic analyses offer a 'High Precision' mode. This feature significantly improves beatgrid accuracy, particularly the placement of downbeats, at the expense of increased analysis time. For static analysis, expect around 90% longer processing time; for dynamic analysis, it can be up to 250% longer. If accurate beatgrids are crucial for your DJ performance, high precision is worth the extra wait.
BPM Range
This is a standard option in all DJ apps and allows you to specify a BPM range when analyzing tracks. This is especially useful for genres like Drum and Bass, where standard analysis might mistakenly interpret the BPM as half actual tempo. By defining a BPM range—say, 98-195 BPM it will force the BPM to be between those values which is usually what you want for a genre like Drum & Bass.
Cloud Analysis
When enabled, Rekordbox creates a unique audio fingerprint and checks it against Pioneer DJ's cloud database. If another DJ has already analyzed the track, Rekordbox simply downloads the existing beatgrid data, dramatically speeding up your workflow. This makes analyzing popular tracks much faster.
Radar Analysis
Radar Analysis enables two functions that enhance music discovery and playlist curation. Collection Radar scans the user's existing music library to surface overlooked or long-forgotten tracks, offering a convenient way to rediscover music suited for specific venues or events by applying user-defined filters. Streaming Radar, on the other hand, explores tracks from streaming platforms, drawing from a vast pool of music across multiple services. This tool aids DJs in uncovering new songs to expand their musical repertoire.
Concurrent Process Mode
Rekordbox’s concurrent process mode lets you analyze multiple tracks simultaneously, maximizing your workflow efficiency. This feature significantly reduces the total time spent analyzing your DJ library, especially useful when importing large collections or preparing tracks on tight deadlines.
Quick Questions
When should I use dynamic analysis in Rekordbox?
You should use dynamic analysis when dealing with tracks that have varying tempos, such as live recordings or genres like funk, disco, or rock.
Does high precision analysis make a noticeable difference?
Yes, high precision analysis noticeably improves the accuracy of beatgrid markers, especially the placement of downbeats, though it requires more processing time.
What is the advantage of using Rekordbox’s cloud analysis?
Cloud analysis speeds up your workflow by using beatgrid data already analyzed and uploaded by other DJs, significantly reducing analysis time for popular tracks.
