- Professional DJs use a combination of analog and digital equipment.DJ at work image by Barlev from Fotolia.com
Long gone are the analog days when DJs played music at parties with just two turntables, a microphone and a couple of speakers. Nowadays, DJs do not need actual records to provide seamless mixes of music at parties. Instead, many spin using a combination of compact disc players and portable computer workstations. Amateur DJs with an interest in starting a DJ business have a wide range of technology options for playing music. - DJs have many options for CD players. There are dual players, standalone players and those that combine a dual player with a mixer (decks). For beginners starting out in the DJ business with limited budgets, the cheaper option is to buy a low-end deck. Stand-alone CD players are shock proof higher-end models from recognized companies such as Stanton, Denon and Numark and can cost hundreds of dollars or more.
- Mixers are the brains of a DJ setup providing the interface for all peripherals to connect and interact. They can accommodate many devices from CD players, turntables, computers and speakers. DJs use mixers to fade music in and out from different sources and to add special effects.
- While it is not necessary to have a computer and DJ software, the two can make accessing computerized libraries of music a much easier task. DJs can connect their laptops and external hard drives to a mixer and have their entire music library at their fingertips. Software such as Virtual DJ simulates a dual CD deck and mixer for playing music directly from the computer. The software also allows DJs to access online music stores and download songs during a session.
- Some venues may provide DJs with amplifiers and speakers, but in order to run a successful business and be ready for any environment, owning a reliable set of speakers and an amplifier is necessary.
- Cables and wiring may come with most DJ products, however if they malfunction, a gig may be put into jeopardy. It is imperative that DJs carry extra cables, wiring and adapters.
- A pair of high-end headphones for cueing tracks and previewing songs is essential. Brands such as Sony, Technics, Sennheiser and Pioneer are popular among DJs.
- Even with the advent of high-tech tools for DJing, many professionals still like to include turntables in their arsenal of equipment. If you include high-end turntables in your DJ kit, make sure to always carry extra needles.
- All-in-one DJ kits may be sold with cases, but a high-quality "coffin" case is a staple for most DJs. A coffin doubles as a carrying case and as a stand during sessions.
- No DJ could do his job without music. Use music tagging software such as MusicBrainz to categorize your library to make it easier to find computerized tracks. If you use turntables, make sure to buy professional grade record cases to transport your vinyl.
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