OtsTurntables Free

The virtual DJ setup of OtsTurntables Free lets you mix and tweak your own MP3s to make you sound like a world-class turntablist. The interface emulates a real-life setup of two turntables and a mixer. Each turntable has pitch, tempo, and direction control. There also are play, stop, and auto-fade controls, and the program comes with virtual outboard gear such as a power amplifier, a graphic equalizer, and a dynamics processor. The free version limits the dynamics processor to compression and gain control, however. Quirky effects such as Surface Noise, Various Scratches, and Needle Noise are interesting. We liked the auto-DJ function, which automatically crossfades between tracks. You can add individual files, CDs, streaming playlists (M3Us), or folders to the playlist. The program supports WAV and MP3 files, as well as its proprietary Ots format. Though this version appears feature-limited compared to the paid versions, OtsTurntables Free is a solid player for both newbies and laptop DJs.