beatmatch
To adjust the tempo and phase of two separate audio tracks so that their beats occur simultaneously and at the same speed.
Beatmatch specifically refers to the active, real-time synchronization of two tracks, a foundational skill for DJs that requires keen listening to align transient peaks (like kick drums).
Word relationships
- synchronize: Synchronize is a general term for making things happen at the same time, whereas beatmatch is strictly limited to aligning musical tempos and beats.
- clash: Clash refers to rhythms or tempos that are out of sync and fighting against each other.
Commonly confused with
- mix: Mixing is the entire process of blending two tracks together, while beatmatching is the specific preliminary step of aligning their speeds.
Word family
- beatmatching (noun): The act or technique of aligning the tempos of two tracks.
Collocations
- beatmatch by ear
- manually beatmatch
- perfectly beatmatched
Example sentences
- "She had to beatmatch the incoming disco record by ear because the digital display on her media player was broken." A description of a DJ's live performance technique.
- "Learning to beatmatch manually is a rite of passage for any aspiring DJ who wants to play on vinyl." A guide on basic DJing skills.
Memory hook
Imagine two hearts beating at different speeds, and you turn a dial until they beat in perfect match. Match the beats to keep the feet moving.
When not to use
Do not use when simply playing two songs one after another without aligning their rhythms, or when adjusting the volume of a track.
Fun facts
- Before digital software, DJs had to physically press their fingers against the edge of a spinning vinyl record to slow it down and beatmatch it with another track.
Related words
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