There’s nothing more fulfilling than playing and mixing beats for a crowd. However, before you earn the title of a digital DJ and master of the dance floor, you need to invest in the right equipment to get you started. But, with numerous components out there, it’s important to do your research before splurging on a setup that may not be compatible with your beginner skills.
Whether you’re setting your foot to become a professional DJ or simply looking to play music at a few parties, find the best digital DJ equipment from our handpicked list of tools that will give you the best value for your money:
Basic Digital DJ Equipment for Beginners
Although the choice of equipment differs among digital DJs, an essential setup usually includes a laptop computer, DJ software, PA system, controllers, and headphones. This setup can already guarantee the delivery of a great playlist for your audience.
1. DJ Software
A DJ software is the backbone of a digital setup, meaning every DJ equipment that you will use will be driven by a mixing software. It allows you to manipulate an MP3 playlist — mix, add FX, edit, cut, copy, paste, among many others — straight from your computer. Today, there are only a handful of DJ software brands worth considering, of which include: Serato DJ, Native Instruments, and Ableton Live.
2. DJ Controller
A DJ controller combines the functionality of a turntable and a mixer in one gear. However, while it may not be a requirement for a digital DJ equipment setup, you may find simple tasks such as crossfading or beat-matching when performed with a keyboard — and a controller, equipped with faders and knobs, provides a hands-on control over the software.
Best DJ Controllers for Beginners:
Numark Mixtrack Pro 3
Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2
Denon DJ MC4000
3. DJ Headphones
In order to cue up, mix between tracks or otherwise pre-listen to a playlist, you will need another essential piece of digital DJ equipment: headphones. Unlike regular models, DJ headphones have a wider frequency range and higher gain levels. It is also intended to have a closed-ear design to isolate the sound. Some of the best DJ headphones today are Pioneer HDJ-2000MK2 and the Sennheiser HD 25, but if you’re only starting out, you may not want to spend over P20,000 for these.
4. PA System
For a beginner digital DJ, a home theatre system can already do the job. However, if you intend on playing in a gig, you should consider investing in a portable PA system that is powerful enough to span across a medium-sized crowd. However, this may be an optional equipment since you’ll find that most venues already have their own sound systems that you can use.
5. Audio Cables
Finally, for your basic DJ setup, you will need an audio cable. It may be the dullest part of your setup but without them, nothing works. An RCA (short for Radio Corporation of America) is the most common type of unbalanced cable you will likely come across. There is also the XLR – a balanced connection that provides better sound quality. The latter is more advisable for clubs and larger parties.
Now that you’ve learned the basic digital equipment, you’re now ready to start your journey as a professional digital DJ!
Do you have any other essentials to add to this list? Let us know in the comments!
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