Newbie DJ (Akai APC40 + Ableton vs. Other DJ Hardware and Software)

[DJK19]

Hi there,

I'm just starting to get into DJing. I already own Ableton and have read up about its capabilities on Djing. However, I wanted to know what your opinions were on whether Ableton is a good choice or if I should look into something more like Traktor S4.

On a side note, I like the DJ mash-ups Kap Slap, Five & a Dime and Basic Physics do.

Thanks.

[chrisw]

Hi there,

I'm just starting to get into DJing. I already own Ableton and have read up about its capabilities on Djing. However, I wanted to know what your opinions were on whether Ableton is a good choice or if I should look into something more like Traktor S4.

On a side note, I like the DJ mash-ups Kap Slap, Five & a Dime and Basic Physics do.

Thanks.

Hi welcome to the forum.

I honestly preffer ableton live. I mean I can beat match by ear, spin vinyl or CDJ. But Ableton just frees up me to do more complex things.

Considering you have ableton and know how to use it I would suggest looking up isotronik or the M4l script that is offered for the APC 40. If you do any kind of production and want to DJ as well it might be worth looking into keeping with ableton

I use ableton because it is easier to do mashups and fx have alot more flexibility. It all depends what you want to do with your gear and how you want to mix.

Like me personally I have an APC20 and Nanokey2. I have my APC20 mapped out with 2 decks then 4 channels of dummy clips for fx. Eventually I would like to make an APC80 (All hail CTRL Demolition) and use 6 rows for Dummy clips 1 row for One shots and then 1 for a deck on each side.

Its all a matter of opinion nothing is better than another. Its all what you want out of the software.

[Sample Seven]

As with anything, try the other options and see what you like best. You can get a demo version of Traktor to see if you like it and you can get a cheap controller like a Numark Mixtrack for $150.

But Ableton just frees up me to do more complex things.

You're right, how else would Skrillex be able to smoke five packs of cigarettes while performing? Gotta love Ableton

[chrisw]

As with anything, try the other options and see what you like best. You can get a demo version of Traktor to see if you like it and you can get a cheap controller like a Numark Mixtrack for $150.



You're right, how else would Skrillex be able to smoke five packs of cigarettes while performing? Gotta love Ableton

Or Richie Hawtin keeping arenas packed world wide

PS. Think before you speak.

[DJK19]

Thanks guys for the explanations.

It seems like the APC40 will fit what I'm looking for. I guess what I was worried was that with the APC40 I wouldn't be able to have the drops/effects that a traditional controller give you.

I have a friend with an S4 who I might go ask see what he thinks of it. But it seems like the mash-up stuff by Kap Slap and those guys is mainly APC40 made. Either way, I'll probably give each a demo/more research before I decide.

[DJK19]

I'm sorry to bring it all up again but I am thoroughly confused on what controller is suitable for Live 8 -_-. I know the APC40 would allow me to create some of the mash-ups I'm interested in doing but I'm afraid that I won't have the creative control that other DJ controllers might have.

I'm not sure if that made sense but mainly my concern is that the APC40 won't allow me to do the drops/creative filters that normal DJs do. Again, any help or clarification would be fantastic as I am still kind of new to the DJing scene so what I'm saying might be totally off-base haha.

[deevey]

I'm sorry to bring it all up again but I am thoroughly confused on what controller is suitable for Live 8 -_-. I know the APC40 would allow me to create some of the mash-ups I'm interested in doing but I'm afraid that I won't have the creative control that other DJ controllers might have.

For Live 8 IMHO there is no better live controller than the APC40 - everything is laid out exactly where it should be and you have super control over almost everything at your fingertips.

I would prefer if they had an extra bank of 8 knobs for EQ purposes, but whats there already does the trick with some creative mapping.

My only real gripe with DJ'ing with Live is Live itself TBH which has not been optimized for a live-dj workflow but as a live production one. Simple things like browsing your library is a chore and not midi mappable, so everything really needs to be pre-warped, and already in your set ready to go you need to watch your screen more than with Traktor and you will need your mouse.

BUT the tradeoff between whats possible with Traktor and whats possible with live is worth it. You have amazing effects control.

First thing I'd do though is re-map the play/stop/record buttons - really silly positioning and wayyyy too easy to hit mid-gig.

If I were you I'd pick up an APC40 for $$270ish, play with the "Live Lite" software thats included for a while (plenty of stuff to keep you busy) and decide if it does what you want - as I said the controller is flawless IMHO, but the software has its quirks.

You won't be lacking when it comes to effects/filters etc .. thats for sure!