When it comes to constructing your very first professional DJ setup is can seem daunting.
Beginning your journey to great beat mixes, there are numerous components to consider before committing your cash to buy the gear. A good way to embark on this adventure is to read the best DJ equipment reviews.
Many DJs who do not have a healthy budget to spend choose to rent which is advantageous for people who need to build their confidence to get ready to start booking gigs.
It saves on the cost of buying new gear, but also it removes the worry associated with regular maintenance. It also means you are able to test different brands to determine which ones suit you best.
It has to be said though that purchasing brand new decks and mixers has numerous advantages: It enables you to create a customized setup to suit your needs, and the majority of equipment comes with useful manufacturer warranties. The downside can be the cost, but for the serious DJ, it’s a worthwhile investment.
A basic DJ setup involves turntable and headphones. Equipment combinations vary among DJs, but an essential setup will include headphones, speakers, turntables, a mixer, vinyl records, or a laptop computer and DJ software. It is important to find what works best for you and your style.
The essential gear DJs need involves:
1. Input devices
You will require at least two input devices to put tunes together. These can either be CD decks or turntables. There is a wide range of input devices that will enable you to mix songs and tunes and then mash up tracks without pausing the music.
2. Mixer
Mixers are the core of any professional DJ’s setup. They are audio mixing consoles that enable DJs to create different tricks and effects. What DJs use their mixers for is to create smooth transitions between the different recordings they use while spinning a set. Mixers can also be used to run record players.
3. Headphones
DJs use high-quality headphones to listen to, cue up and mix their sounds with precision. A set of headphones is among the most important tools a DJ uses to determine timing so they can play songs rhythmically. When choosing your equipment consider comfort. It is a major factor because you will be wearing your headphones for long periods of time so you need a pair that accurately reproduces sound but is not uncomfortable to wear.
4. Sound system
One great way for beginners to clearly hear their mixes is to use studio monitor speakers. Hi-Fi speakers are able to produce high-quality sound and amplify frequencies but these can make it difficult for beginners to discern how a mix actually sounds.
It’s an optional element of the perfect basic setup for a DJ. Most venues have their own sound system which DJs can use. If you’re learning and want a good sound system to practice it’s a worthy investment.
5. Controller
It is common these days for DJs to opt for an easier and simpler setup consisting of just a controller and a laptop. If you have dispensed with vinyl and CDs, buying a controller is all you need to create a viable setup.
It is common for controllers to mimic the function of a turntable and mixer. They are easily manipulated by DJ software. Controllers enable DJs to mix music using the software along with assignable backlit buttons, knobs, encoders, jog wheels, faders, touch strips, and a plethora of other control components.
