Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Everbody wants to be a DJ

Hello World,

Sorry about not uploading the practice Mix last night, I forget to hit record (also it was some crazy breakcore and I know that locally nobody really appreciates it so I didn't lose sleep over not posting it) I will post a happy hardcore one up later (my usual style)

Anyways, on to more relevant things. I've been getting alot of questions from people looking into taking there first steps on the road to becoming a DJ / Electronic music performer. They ask me what the best equipment and/or software is best for beginners, where to get it, etc. and what alot of people aren't realizing right of the bat is that being a DJ and making electronic music are two completely different things. Some people do one or the other, and some people (like myself) do both.

SO! For those of you looking to do one or the other, I have created a list of what I consider to be the best (and most cost friendly) equipment for beginners!


  1. The Numark Mix Deck
  • I personally love this! It has a mixer, two CDJs with bpm read outs, acts as a midi controller, and can even take mp3 off a flash drive. This is truly an all in one package, and helps give beginning DJ's experience in mixing CD's and MP3's. The only downside is that if you had a booking in another state, it would be a little hard to transport, and unless every DJ will be mixing on this, using it at live events would be difficult to coordinate.
  1. The Numark Mix Track PRO
  • Just like the above, minus the CDJ's. This is an all in one MP3 DJ Package. Two disc Jogs, a mixer, and a built in sound card. The size is nice, and its easily taken from place to place. Its big enough to look professional but small enough not to be in the way. For those of you who are looking to use MP3 only I recommend saving money and using this.
  1. The Numark Total Control

  • This is what I started with, and ended up going back to. This has two disc jogs, all the buttons and knobs as the two above controllers, but the downsides are no built-in sound cards, and no CDJ's. Why do I use it you ask? Well, not only is it about the size of One CDJ (its great for long distance bookings) It can be mapped out to Ableton, FL Studio, just about anything (with a little know how). Oh yeah, and its cheap! Its perfect for those looking to do live PA's and do DJ sets. Get the DJ I/O (sound card) and a decent pair of headphones, and you are set!

I hope that helps out anyone looking into getting into DJing / live EDM production.

Random Question: What is the most ridiculous DJ name you have ever heard? (ie: DJ Tex-Mex, DJ Statutory Rave, DJ Sparkle Pony)
I look forward to some interesting responses,

Until next time,
Seven

24 comments:

  1. I used to date a DJ. She was nothing but trouble though.

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  2. I dated a girl once who dated me because I was a DJ / Promoter... met her at one of my parties.

    worst.decision.ever

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  3. Theres some good advice here man. thanks for sharing but im just looking into mixing on my spare time.

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  4. then id recommend the total control :]

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  5. thanks for sharing, this is very helpful to people like me who are just starting up with DJing. will check you out more often

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  6. No vinyl? I must be getting old...

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  7. I love vinyl! but most promoters / venues don't have equipment for vinyl :\
    and with the whole CD MP3 thing goin on, starting with vinyl (Which I would recommend to someone who had a mentor) is not practical business wise

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  8. My friend uses a total control deck, good stuff

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  9. Weirdest I've encountered is DJ Mom Jeans

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  10. wow that was very useful, you really have a mental grip on DJing. +1

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  11. hmm ive always wanted to be a dj but i find that everything i produce sounds like shit

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  12. I wonder how much a set like that would run you....

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  13. Awesome, I've always wondered what kind of equipment it takes to start DJing.

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  14. mix deck pro is pretty expensive btw

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  15. Awesome stuff. I go over to my friends house and he has most that stuff. Its pretty fun to mess around with.

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  16. I've always wanted to be a DJ, this will help me start, awesome.

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  17. Woah! that stuff much be expensive!
    I have a few friends that Dj it's legit.
    Favorite djs anyone?

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  18. DJ Gammer = my all time fav I had the pleasure of meeting him!

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  19. I need to get me one of these, i've been looking at the Gemini 3610? looks pretty sick but still unsure whether to buy single cdj's?

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  20. Got a few mates who are really good Djs, get into clubs and get free drinks when I am with them :)

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  21. The Level of DJ's has been falling here locally. It sucks, when everyone with some kind of computer, starts to think they can DJ a club.

    At least that's how it goes here.

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