A transform is a type of scratch used by turntablists. It is made from a combination of moving the record on the turntable by hand and repeated movement of the crossfader.

Creation

Most famously associated with DJ Jazzy Jeff. The name comes from its similarity to the sound made by the robots in the 80's cartoon, The Transformers.

Technique

This scratch is achieved by moving a sound with your record hand while repeatedly tapping the fader to cut the sound in and out in sequence with your fader hand as the sound plays. A transform scratch should begin with the sound off tapping the fader once you want the effect/sound to start. Imagine the crossfader as a button, and your thumb as the spring (or vice versa if you scratch hamster style). What you would be doing is tapping the button repeatedly as the sound plays giving a stuttering or tremolo type effect.

External links

• Transform scratch at DJ Techniques wiki
• Dj Q-Bert demonstrates the transform scratch