xwax is a digital vinyl system for Linux that lets DJs control digital music files using conventional turntables and timecoded records. It is designed for performers who prefer the physical handling of vinyl but want to play recordings stored on a computer.
The software translates the control signal from a timecoded record into instructions for digital audio playback. Movements of the turntable determine how the corresponding audio file is played, giving the DJ direct control over scratching, rewinding and pitch changes.
xwax concentrates on reliable, responsive vinyl control rather than offering an extensive collection of software effects or automatic mixing facilities. Its architecture uses realtime scheduling and low-latency audio processing, making it particularly relevant to turntablists and DJs working with external mixers.
This is free and open source software.
Key Features
- Control digital audio playback using turntables and timecoded vinyl records.
- Supports scratch mixing and beat mixing with physical turntable controls.
- Needle drops allow playback to jump to positions determined by the record.
- Perform scratching, spinbacks, rewinds and pitch adjustments using normal vinyl techniques.
- Multiple decks for mixing tracks using separate turntables.
- Playback support for MP3, Ogg Vorbis, FLAC, AAC and other audio formats.
- Low-latency audio processing with realtime scheduling for responsive playback.
- ALSA and JACK audio interface support.
- Graphical track browser with search and sorting facilities.
- Scalable graphical interface suitable for different display sizes.
- Track information displays include tempo and playback position.
- Software preamplification for supported input configurations.
- Designed to work with external DJ mixers and suitable audio interfaces.
Website: xwax.org
Support:
Developer: Mark Hills
License: GNU General Public License v3.0
xwax is written in C. Learn C with our recommended free books and free tutorials.
Related Software
| DJ Software | |
|---|---|
| Mixxx | Designed for both professional and amateur DJs with powerful features |
| Giada | Hardcore audio tool for DJs, live performers and electronic musicians |
| xwax | Digital Vinyl System |
| IDJC | Shoutcast/Icecast client with two main media players |
| terminatorX | Realtime audio synthesizer; “scratch” on digitally sampled audio data |
| Luppp | Music creation tool, intended for live use |
| Linux Show Player | Cue player designed for stage productions |
| line | Tiny command-line midi sequencer |
| Vahatraker | Live MIDI sequencer |
| ShoopDaLoop | Advanced live looping application with DAW-like elements |
| Seq24 | Minimal loop based midi sequencer |
| Chipdisco | Dual-deck DJ app for tracker modules |
Read our verdict in the software roundup.
 LinuxLinks helps you discover the best free and open source software for Linux. Explore our extensive collection of recommended applications, including alternatives to popular proprietary software.We also publish software reviews, Linux tutorials, hardware reviews, free programming books and articles covering the wider open source community. Browse our Linux resources to discover more. Know a useful free and open source Linux application we haven't covered? Suggest a program for inclusion. Has your software been featured on LinuxLinks? Display one of our Featured on LinuxLinks badges on your website or GitHub README. |
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.