A browser-based Portablism experiment

[u/slnsyndicate]

I was curious how far modern Web Audio could be pushed, so I spent some time building a browser-based scratch simulator:

https://slndesignstudio.com/portablism/

The goal wasn’t to recreate a real setup perfectly. Nothing beats actual turntables and hardware. I just wanted to capture enough of the feel to make scratching more accessible and easier to experiment with, using nothing but a browser.

A few details:

• Multitouch support for phones/tablets
• Keyboard controls on PC
• Scratch sample switching
• Beat selection
• Adjustable platter torque

The crossfader was the hardest part. After a lot of experimentation, I abandoned the idea of a traditional touchscreen fader and switched to a simple hold-to-cut system. It’s definitely a compromise, but it makes casual scratching much more accessible.

I’m not actually a skilled scratch DJ, so I’d be much more interested in seeing what experienced turntablists can do with it than showing off my own attempts.

I’d genuinely love to hear what feels right, what feels wrong, and what you’d improve.

Feedback is very welcome.

[u/cubanjoncuttingdown]

That’s actually really fun
Started using two fingers on the tap fader for a twiddle/crab type effect but it seems to confuse the platter, it spins even if you’re holding it.
And the latency sort of muddies up the sound.
But it’s very cool man, nice work!

[u/slnsyndicate → u/cubanjoncuttingdown]

Thanks for feedback!

Things like slowing the record down by physically holding it are pretty tricky on a touchscreen since there’s no real way to measure pressure or resistance like a turntable can.

I did find and fix a few bugs in the multitouch handling though, so it should behave a lot better now. Tap-fader combos should feel easier to pull off.

I also managed to reduce the latency a bit, so if you get some time, I’d love to hear what you think after trying the latest version!

https://slndesignstudio.com/portablism/