Winamp

While Winamp is not the only software that can play karaoke files, we need to use it in this particular setup, as it is required by Sax & Dotty's Show Hoster. It's also the fastest, most stable player you can use. Get it from Winamp.com (latest version, whatever it may be). I suggest you download the "Lite" version, as you will not need any of the additional features provided by the other larger packages.

Install Winamp normally, keeping it's installation directory as is, and choosing default options. When you start it for the first time make sure you chose "Classic Skin", as modern ones take up precious memory that you'll need. Remove all of the Winamp windows except the main one - that is, close the Library, Playlist, Equalizer, and anything else that appears. Don't worry, you won't need them. Then close Winamp, we'll come back to it later.

CDG Plugin for Winamp

The CDG plugin is essential, since it will be the one displaying lyrics on your screen. Download the plugin installation from here, and install it. There's no installation options, and it detects the Winamp path automatically, so it should be a breeze to install.

Pacemaker

Pacemaker will provide you with the ability to modify the pitch and speed of the song, enabling singers to do songs that is normally beyond their range. Download it here, and install (again there is no install options, just like the CDG plugin).

Sax & Dotty's Show Presenter

SDSP is the central piece of our configuration, and is the only software that is not free. SDSP controls all the other parts of our setup, including Winamp and it's plugins. It will keep an updatable database of all your karaoke files in an MS Access Database, which can even convieniently be used to Print your karaoke song list! You can download the 15 day trial from their website, where you'll also be able to purchase it once you're satisfied that everything works. The installation is again very straightforward and does not need any customisation.

Continue to Configuration ->