CRATELAB vs SetPrep

CRATELAB is AI-powered DJ software for analyzing tracks, organizing crates, planning playlists, and syncing a cloud library. Its desktop analyzer performs local beat tracking, and the site claims tempo detection to ±0.5 BPM. It identifies keys using Camelot notation, assigns energy scores from 1 to 10, and maps intro, build, and drop sections on coloured waveforms. Mix tools include AI playlist generation, transition compatibility scoring, and an AI DJ coach for suggestions. Metadata can be exported as CSV or connected through the Sync page to Rekordbox, Serato, and Engine DJ. Audio stays on the user's computer unless sent to the cloud, while metadata syncs by default. Browsing, editing, and playback work offline, but local analysis needs internet access to verify the subscription. The Free plan is free, billed Forever, and requires sign-in. Pro is $9.99 a month, billed monthly, with 200 analysis credits per cycle; each analyzed track uses one credit and unused credits do not roll over.

SetPrep is a desktop app that plans DJ sets from an existing music library. Choose a mixing style and it returns an ordered set, giving each track an energy-arc role, a transition note, and an explanation of its selection. It reads libraries from Rekordbox, Serato, or Traktor, and can also work from a folder of audio files. Ten built-in mixing-style templates draw on analysis of real artist sets. SetPrep can write colour codes, transition notes, and star ratings back to supported DJ libraries. Other library tools include de-duplication, locating missing files, filename repair, and finding forgotten tracks. The beta is available on Mac with Apple Silicon or Intel and Windows with x64 or ARM64, but downloads are invite-gated. The free plan costs nothing and allows three generated mixes per calendar month. Pro Monthly costs £5.99 a month; Pro Annual costs £59.99 a year. Hot cues, loops, memory cues, and structural cues are described as coming soon.