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There has been outstanding information shared. Doesn't everyone love their tools and toys to pieces? We protect and defend them like they were our kids. Me too!

Here's what I can share about BPM.

This program has all the cue points, fade points, normalizations features that higher end softwares offer. A big difference is that BPM uses ID3V3 file info tags that are not "locked" in. If you'd like a genre to be Tush Push, type it in. If you'd like a mini-group bio to appear in the Comments field, type it in. All fields are searchable, word by word, however one must know how to use wild cards (*=means all; ?=means space, etc).

There is auto-beat mixing, auto bpm identification, selectable and adjustable on-the-fly fades, and what I like most...files can be accessed EITHER through the BPM software OR using the operating system's storage file and foldering system. Use the program's search feature OR the Windows-based search. Very handy feature. THis allows me to access any file (song) in the software using the Windows based search and therefore can structure a folder system instead of srtict software reliance to find something. Other programs may do this too however I must plead my ignorance with them.

Being structurally MP3 based, there is no subsequent encoding or decoding to play a file in WinAmp of Win-Media. Kinda one size fits all. The program will play CD and other formats through it handily.

The program easily utilizes AISO drivers and will allow immediate USB sound card audio output channel selection. For example, using the GigaPortAG USB sound device, I have software Player A on GigaPortAG channel 1&2 connected to my mixer's channel 1; software Player B on GigaPortAG channel 3&4 connected to my mixer's channel 2; software Monitor on GigaPortAG channel 5&6 connected to my mixer's channel 3. The versatility allows mixing not only in the software but with the mixer's hardware in the traditional manner. Very handy feature for those who may opt to make the digital transition over an extended period of time.

The biggest advantage for new comers is that the graphic interface emulates a Denon dual CD player. Same colors, button locations, even size. That definitely eliminates the need to be a computer genius just to play a track. The rest of the more intricate features however has a deep learning curve.

There is a mechanical rack mount proprietary controller which is outrageously expensive so I remain a trackball/keyboard kinda guy. Not doing any club or school dance work, beat mixing is not a major concern however doing clever fades is a breeze.

There are illegal "cracked" versions of BPM floating around that, if used, will provide a realistic training excercise but lacks most of the significant updated features and drivers.

Most people shy initially from BPM because of it's price. Yep, what's new! [img]style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/wink.gif[/img] Fortunately, the software is very stable and non-invasive to an operating system so that customer support (horrendous if you don't know German) isn't needed.

I have had BPM since 1999 and have not had any operational difficulties (although lots of battles with BPM wanting more features). Yep, what's new! [img]style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/rolleyes.gif[/img]