Used by Native Instruments Traktor and other DJ/Music software (open alternative to Camelot, which is functionally equivalent to OpenKey)
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Key Labels: The notation uses a combination of a number and a letter. The number indicates the key's position in the circle (from 1 to 12), and the letter indicates the mode: m for minor and d for major.
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Adjacent Keys: Keys that are adjacent to each other on the wheel are harmonically compatible. For example, 8m (A minor) is compatible with 9m (E minor) and 7m (D minor).
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Mixing Up or Down: You can move one step clockwise or counterclockwise to find compatible keys. For instance, if you are in 8m, you can mix with 7m or 9m.
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Switching Between Major and Minor: You can switch between a major and its relative minor by staying within the same number. For example, 8m (A minor) can mix with 8d (C major).
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Energy Boosts: For a higher energy mix, you can jump two steps forward. For instance, mixing from 8m to 10m can provide a more energetic transition.
If your current track is in 4m (E minor), you can smoothly transition to 3m (B minor), 5m (A minor), or even 4d (G major).
For an energetic jump, you might go from 4m (E minor) to 6m (B minor).
This system helps ensure that the tracks blend well together, avoiding clashing harmonics that can disrupt the flow of the mix.