Becoming a Professional DJ is one of the best jobs in the world: you go to parties and earn millions. Famous dance crazes and songs today are the brainchildren of famous DJ’s. If you are dreaming of standing behind the DJ controller and at the point of gearing up for your first DJ setup here is a quick guide to get you started.
Choosing Between Digital and Traditional DJ Setup
Digital Setup
The Digital Setup requires a computer and DJ controller with DJ software e.g Traktor Scratch, Serato or MIXX. This set-up is versatile as you can also use a turntable for vinyl records and CD’s as the music source.
Pros:
- The digital software and controller is relatively cheaper than the traditional setup.
- It is portable
Cons:
- It needs a DJ software with licensing
- Depending on the controllers, it may incur additional cost
Traditional DJ Setup
Also called the Analogue, this setup needs no software and is the foundation of all DJ setup. For this setup, you will need two or more standalone digital or vinyl turntables, plus a mixer and CDs or Vinyl Records.
Pros:
- The very foundation of Dj-ing, good for beginners.
- Most tactile form of Dj-ing, thus it offers most hands-on control
- Best for Beat Matching and Scratching
Cons
- Less Portable
- A bit more Expensive: Vinyl records and the turntable itself are both costly
Gear Up Guide: The Equipment to Choose
For Digital Setup
Controllers
Considering the build quality, controllers are very important and lasting investment. Make sure you look for the controller that suits the layout you are comfortable with. And when going through the functions, controllers with USB port and built-in soundcard and audio interface is a good choice. You may also want scratch plates, faders, built-in-audio interfaces and many more.
Choosing a Software
Many all-in-one controllers are software specific, so if you pick Digital Djing, it is important to choose the software you want to use. And because you would get limited software functionality for free when you buy a controller, consider the price of the full software.
Generally, all softwares offer the same functionality, what matters is your comfort in using it.
For Traditional DJ Setup
Turntables or Vinyl Decks
When looking for DJ turntables consider the type of Drive motor used. A turntable with belt-drive is not a good choice for Djing as it badly works in maintaining speed rotation.
The responsiveness is also important in order for you to correctly adjust tempo and cue up a song. And in case you would want to migrate to digital, there are turntables that have Digital Output so you can connect them to the computer.
DJing is no easy task. It takes talent, perseverance to build a reputation, and taking risks in order to make it in this industry. With the right setup, you can produce any good hit that will surely keep the party going. So weigh your options before you press play.
Also Read: 7 Tips to Rainproof Your Outdoor Events
Are you only looking for a setup to use just for one show? Then try renting one at Red Damien, a professional light and sound provider that offers professional DJ setups to enhance your performances. Contact us to find out how.
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