A scratch technique combining a record push with a crossfader click at the midpoint of both the forward and backward strokes, producing a bird-like chirping tone.
The chirp scratch is a technique in which the DJ opens the crossfader and begins moving the record forward, then closes the fader during the forward push so only the first portion of that stroke is audible, then reopens the fader as the record is pulled back so only the first portion of the return is audible. Each complete forward-and-back cycle produces two short, tapered sounds separated by a brief silence at the direction change, giving the result a bird-like chirp character. One crossfader close and one open occur per full cycle.
Why it matters
The chirp is a significant step up in coordination because the crossfader action falls in the middle of each stroke rather than at the start or end, demanding that both hands move simultaneously with different timing. It is a core competency in battle DJ and turntablist circles and is one of the building blocks for the flare and other click-based techniques.
In practice
Begin with the crossfader open and the record ready. Push the record forward while closing the fader progressively so the sound fades and cuts before the end of the forward stroke. Open the fader again as you pull back so the return produces a similar short burst. The goal is two matched, tapered sounds per cycle. Speeding up gradually until both sounds are equal in length and tonal arc is the standard progression.
