Important Notice: Deprecated Version

This guide applies to Crate Hackers Version 3.9, the last release of Version 3. We have since moved on to Version 10 and higher, which include significant improvements and new features. While this document remains available for legacy support, we highly recommend upgrading to the latest version of Crate Hackers for the best experience.

Overview

This guide provides troubleshooting steps and key reference information for Crate Hackers Desktop App Version 3. Although this version is deprecated, it remains available for legacy support.

Key Features of Version 3:

  • Organizes music into Crates for easy DJ set planning.

  • Integrates with record pools, streaming services, and DJ software.

  • Supports track matching, export functions, and AI-driven suggestions.

  • Discover hidden features like Cloud Crates, Banger Button, and Magic Sorter to enhance your DJ workflow.

Common Issues & Fixes

1. Crate Appears Empty After Export

Cause: Songs weren’t properly selected before exporting.

Solution:

  • Go to "My Music" > Click "Rescan Folders".

  • Open your crate and verify that each song has a checkmark.

  • Ensure your export path is correctly set in Settings.

  • Restart your DJ software and try re-importing the crate.

2. Crate Hackers App Freezes or Stuck on Loading ("Spinning Wheel of Death")

Cause: Large libraries or corrupted files.

Solution:

  1. Click "Clear All" in "My Music" tab.

  2. Re-add music folders: Click "Add Folder" and select your music directory.

  3. Restart the app and re-open your crate.

3. Can't Find Exported Crate in Serato, Virtual DJ, or Rekordbox

Cause: Incorrect export settings or missing file path.

Solution:

  • Ensure you selected all tracks before exporting.

  • Check if your DJ software supports M3U playlist imports.

  • Restart your DJ software after exporting.

  • For Virtual DJ 2024+, enable browserShowLegacyM3UPlaylists in Settings.

4. Spotify Import Issues

Cause: Incorrect playlist link, privacy settings, or unsupported format.

Solution:

  • Ensure the Spotify playlist is public.

  • Copy the full link (not a shortened version) before pasting it.

  • If importing fails, create a new public playlist and copy tracks into it.

5. Missing Songs After Using Folder Flattener

Cause: File paths changed, or duplicates were removed incorrectly.

Solution:

  • Locate your backup folder (recommended before using Folder Flattener).

  • Use Finder (Mac) or File Explorer (Windows) to search for missing files.

  • In Serato: Relocate Lost Files to re-map the new location.

6. App Won't Install or Shows a Security Warning

Cause: Windows/Mac security settings.

Solution:

  • On Windows: Click "More Info" > "Run Anyway".

  • On Mac: Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Allow Crate Hackers.

Exporting Crates to DJ Software

Serato DJ

  1. Export crate as M3U from Crate Hackers.

  2. Open Serato and drag the M3U file into your library.

Virtual DJ

  1. Go to Settings in Crate Hackers and set the correct Virtual DJ Playlist Path.

  2. Export to Virtual DJ and restart the software.

  3. If using Virtual DJ 2024, enable browserShowLegacyM3UPlaylists in settings.

Rekordbox

  1. Export crate as M3U.

  2. Open Rekordbox > File > Import Playlist.

Denon Engine DJ (Workaround)

  1. Export the crate to Serato or Rekordbox first.

  2. Open Engine DJ and sync the library from Serato/Rekordbox.

Other Helpful Features

Track Matcher & Recommendations

  • Use Track Matcher to see which songs you already own in a crate.

  • Click "AI Recommendations" to find songs that mix well with your track.

Cloud Crates

  • Access Crate Hackers-curated playlists on Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, and Beatsource.

  • Click the Cloud Crates icon in any crate to sync it with your streaming account.

  • Discover mixable playlists that update automatically with new music!

The Rabbit Hole: AI-Powered Discovery

  • Find related tracks with similar BPM and key.

  • Discover remixes, bootlegs, and alternative edits.

Banger Button: Instant Crowd-Pleasers

  • Get high-energy song recommendations with a single click.

  • Works in real-time while DJing.

Still Need Help?