Today, with the growing number of entertainment joints and events being organized often, DJing has become a career like any other. How can I become a DJ? What do I need to get started? These are some of the most common questions that you will often hear the interested parties asking. Before we answer these questions, you need to ask yourself if this is what you want. What kind of DJ do you want to become? In this article, we won’t go much into detail. Here, we will help you get off the ground with info about the underlying investments that every DJ needs to get started in the career.
Headphones
It’s with no reasonable doubt that headphones are a must-have for any DJ out there. When it comes to DJing, playing good music is the key to winning a crowd. This can only be witnessed after investing in a pair of quality headphones. Headphones are essential when it comes to cueing and listening to audition tracks without the need to play them through the main speakers.
Which type of headphones should you buy? This is one question that most starters will often ask. Technically speaking, any headphones can do the job. Therefore, it depends on how much you are willing to spend. However, some of the most popular brands you can consider include; Sony, Pioneer, and Sennheiser. When choosing between the different brands, you should consider factors such as cable length, isolation, durability, and comfort.
Laptop
With the headphones out of the list, the next thing you should consider investing in is a laptop. After all, you need it to run the DJ software and play your music. When it comes to choosing a laptop for your DJ career, specifications here don’t matter. As opposed to gaming laptops, the only thing you ought to consider here is the laptop’s ability to run the DJ-ing software without any complications. Whether you choose to use a Mac or PC, here are the basic specs you should consider:
- Efficient screen size
- Availability of USB ports
- Quality battery life
When it comes to laptops, you don’t necessarily need to buy a new one. You can go ahead and use the one you are currently using. But, if your budget allows, you can shop around for different brands that the market has to offer.
DJ Mixer/Controller
Now that you have got your source of music and quality headphones to use, the next important tool is a DJ mixer/controller. In today’s market, there are all types of controllers and mixers to choose from. Therefore, it’s up to you to keep your option as simple as possible. According to MusicCritic, the best controller to work with should be easy to connect to a computer through USB and has a built-in soundcard and audio interface.
Such controllers are easy to hook up and use as opposed to the others out there. With a soundcard on your controller, you will be able to hear what is being played on the main speakers, as well as the headphones. Such features are crucial, especially when it’s your first time using a mixer or controller.
Record players are also a must-consider if you are looking to enjoy your vinyl records. Today’s models come loaded with additional features that you require to up your game. So, which is the best record player? Luckily for you, a review from TopRecordPlayers.com can assist you in narrowing the search. With a review, you can easily find a turntable that meets your needs and budget. When it comes to DJ-ing on a turntable, a few tutorials can help you set it up and get started quickly.
DJ Software
When it comes to DJ-ing, you need software to connect the laptop to the controller and cue your songs. Today, there are different types of DJ-ing software to choose from. Therefore, you might find it difficult to pick one to work with. It’s recommended that you go for the leading players in the market, such as Virtual DJ and Traktor. They all do the same thing, but as a DJ, you may find it easy to work with one over the other. Therefore, when it comes to acquiring software, it’s advisable to try out the free trial version of the software before settling for the right one.
Speakers
With everything set and ready, you need a set of speakers so that your audience can hear what you are spinning. You can invest in small speakers for your house or the large ones based on where you plan on entertaining. Often, successful DJs recommends that you acquire the speakers based on your skill level. As a beginner, you should, therefore, go for the small models and increase the size as your skills progress. The amazing thing about speakers is that you don’t need to buy the large ones at all. This is because most entertainment joints already have their PA systems set up, and the only thing you may need is a laptop and your controller.
Hard Disk/USB
As a DJ, you are needed to always have a list of music to play to your audience. Where will you be storing your music? Your laptop can be your first storage. But what will happen if it crashes? Of course, you won’t have anything to play for your crowd. Investing in a quality hard disk can save the day. You can go for the 1TB hard disk or smaller size based on the type of music you intend to specialize in. If you are planning to be an all-rounded DJ, a bigger size is recommended. The amazing thing about investing in a hard disk is that it’s highly portable. This means that you can easily carry around your hard disk without having to use even a bag.
Starting your career as a DJ can be a daunting experience. From the capital to the many questions you will be asking yourself when getting started. If you are wondering which tools are a must-have for beginners, this article is for you. It talks about the great investments you must-consider when starting your career as a DJ. By reading through the entire piece, you will have a better understanding of these essential tools and what they mean to your DJ-ing career.