Gig tomorrow - first time using CDJs

[benjturner95]

So I’ve got a gig tomorrow where I’ll be using CDJs, I want to use them but I’ve got a couple of questions…
- On my controller/laptop I beatmatch by covering up the BPMs (the decimal points) and I use the percentages as a marker for beatmatching. In that say I’ve got a 125 track, I see the track playing is at 124 so I’ll take the 125 track down by 0.8% and then ride it out till it comes in – is this a method I can use on CDJs? (Will it work?)
- I’ve put the tracks I’m using in rekordbox and set cue points on them, will I be able to use these as a guide on the CDJs? (I know how to count bars/phrases) – The setup is a CDJ900 and a CDJ2000
Thanks, Ben

[DJ WadE]

I dunno about the Rekordbox, but yeah plenty of djs I know mix by numbers on cdj's

[no_rex4u]

if you have your tracks already analyzed and cued in record box you will be fine.

although you won't have the hotcues on the 900, only on the 2000

[JoBushwick]

So many people panic about using CDJs for the first time- and trust me I did to. I found them easier then a controller and actually sold my Traktor S2 and thinking of ditching my DDJ SX. I ran out and bought CDJs and a mixer. I found the platter size and response so much more gratifying and the whole process so much more powerful. Also there is that moment you realize you don't have to stare at a computer screen and I was hooked. ( I stare at a computer all day at work so this setup has given me FREEDOM)
I dunno It really changed my perception of how I want to DJ so I recommend everyone to try different equipment and software.
Some people benefit more with controllers and let's face it - a lot of controllers are pretty amazing and great for mobile DJ solutions.

Anyway I have a CDJ 900 and it does not have hotcues so keep that in mind but you can call in cue points which I know is not the same. I run a usb stick with songs analyzed through rekordbox.
* I actually found the CDJ was no issue at all but the mixer was a different story. One place I play at has two CDJ 2000 and a DJM 850. I was lost on the mixer. Sure a controller mixer has the same elements but I found a stand alone mixer to be a totally different experience and I had to do things differently. I recommend reading the manuals on all equipment so you can figure out looping components and the settings that will benefit you the most. Also know the components on the mixer. Like the DJM 850 has beat boost effects and different elements that can really enhance your mix.

[DjLiquitATL]

Not going to start a sync debate BUT practice mixing by ear. Try not to pay attention or depend on BPM. I promise you your mixes will be better. I have a buddy from Chicago that has used the original mkI CDJ-1000s since they came out. He was a 1200 DJ for the longest and to this day he still does not use BPM. For organization purposes I guess it's ok, but the ear is more accurate

[frankGR]

I perfectly agree with Jo. There's no better and easier way to mix tracks than with cd's. Rekordbox game changer, you can really do whatever with that and you have the most gratifying response on the market in my opinion.
I hope things worked out well Ben!!