DJ Equipment Beginners Guide

Everyone thinks they are a DJ these days if they own a smartphone and it`s true, there are thousands of songs to choose from but to get a really cool atmosphere you need to have the extra kit. Our DJ equipment beginners guide will give you the basics to start you on your journey to becoming a DJ. Of course there are no rights or wrongs just differences and these can all depend on your budget. Check out our DJ equipment beginners guide below.

The Gear

Analogue and digital music players are available depending on taste. Originally DJ’s had to use analogue vinyl players which create a nostalgic sound but can be pricey. However also available now are the digital players that can give a DJ access to thousands of tunes at the push of a button.

DJ Turntables

Traditional DJ turntables use either a belt drive or direct drive. The main difference between the two is that the belt drive takes longer to get up to speed where the direct drive is instant. It’s really a matter of taste but if scratching is what you’re wanting to do then go for a direct drive player. Remember you will need two turntables in order to keep the music going and mix the songs.

Many DJ’s like to bring their music on a laptop but obviously doesn’t have that vinyl sound. However it certainly has its advantages of being able to store thousands of tunes on a small device rather than having to struggle with large boxes of vinyl.

Mixer

This is the piece of kit that gives the DJ the ability to make music seamlessly and can have a multitude of options.

Channels – You need at least 3-4 channels in order to mix songs and each channel should have its own fader to turn the volume up or down.

Peak Meters – Essential to have these in order that the channel is the right volume, they will also help avoid clipping.

Inputs – RCA and Aux inputs will be required if vinyl and CD’s are to be used. Also an input for the microphone will be needed.

Crossfader – Used to blend one song with another.

Speakers – Better to have your own if possible but remember not all guests want their ears blown off.

OTHER GEAR

Headphones of the best quality you can afford as gigs can last for many hours and they need to be comfortable as well as functional.

Cases a must for the travelling DJ to avoid damage to the equipment and avoids tripping over and possibly breaking valuable gear.

Stands Good to have along with tables to put the speaker and other equipment on .You can then keep control of the space you need for the equipment.

Lighting To add that little extra glitz and many types are available from strobes to lasers

Cards get repeat business and spread the word it is worth considering purchasing some business cards. These can be bought online at reasonable costs and there are many templates to choose from

Clothes Not everybody likes to see a scruffy DJ so it is worth looking at your wardrobe and giving it the once over before entering the world of showbiz

Where to buy These days there are so many options from dedicated music stores to online retailers and there is a large used market for DJ equipment it really depends on your budget.

So all there is left to say is “Happy DJ ing “