Originally Posted by
mostapha
You can rent CDJs and a mixer yourself. I'd do that.
If you're where there is one, Guitar Center offers it. If not, there is probably somewhere else.
That being said, the SB2 isn't that different from CDJs. If you regularly use sync, it'll be there on the CDJs as long as they're linked...bring a LAN cable and read the manual or watch videos about how to set up the link function. If you use rekordbox and just export to a USB key, the beatgrids will be the same. If you use Serato, you'd have to hook up the CDJs in HID mode to use Serato, which can be a headache if you've never done it before. And Serato beatg rids won't work with the CDJs.
Fortunately, rekordbox is free in it's library mode, and there's a free 30-day trial of the DJ mode. And your SB2 will work with it.
If you don't use sync, mixing on CDJs should be easier but different because the pitch faders on CDJs are so much longer. You'll feel like you're making huge movements. But, if you do it by ear instead of math, you should be okay. If you use the visual aids, they're different on the CDJs. There is a phase meter that looks a little strange compared to software, but it works just as well. It also relies on beatgrids rather than the waveform itself, which is another reason to at least analyze your music in rekordbox first.
Browsing on the CDJs is very different than browsing in software. How much that affects you is down to exactly how you do that task.
Basically...if you have beatgrids set in rekordbox, it should be really similar.
You didn't say which mixer. I'm assuming it'll be a DJM. If it is....effects controls are going to be different. I say lay off them until you get comfortable. But, it's not that bad to just use them, even if a few can be a little unpredictable. Channel filters will be about the same, just make sure you have the filter selected instead of one of the other color effects.
If it's not a DJM, effects and filters might be totally different or nonexistent. Try to find out what it's going to be ahead of time and at least look at pictures and skim through the manual. If it's an effects beast like the digital Xones, it might be best to just not screw with them unless you can play with it for a while first.
But, CDJs are not more difficult than a controller. That's a lie CDJ DJs tell themselves to make fun of controller DJs.
Especially if you're getting paid for the gig, I think it's worth renting the CDJs for a couple days before it.
Or, if they're okay with it, just use your controller. Just make absolutely sure you know how to set it up and tear it down without causing the music to stop.
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