I often work second shifts and sometimes overnights, and I do end up having sometime on my hand.
I want to spend some of this time usefully practicing my mixing/djing skills, instead of watching TV/movies.
I am unable to haul my $1,000 + controller with me to work, but I do take my laptop with me.
What do I need to accomplish my goals?
I am thinking of getting a small controller (Serato compatible) such as Pioneer DDJ-SB2 Serato DJ Intro Controller.
Is it advisable to go this route? Can I mix on the computer using the software without the controller? Do I need to get a speaker or headphones are ok?
That would do the trick - if you want to go really small, the Akai AMX
It fits the bill for practicing, so why not ?
No, not with Serato. You’ll need a compatible controller plugged in.
I mix in headphones all the time when I don’t want to disturb anyone, as do many others - its a good skill to have anyhow when the club monitors are crap.
I checked the Akai AMX and it is the same price as the DDJ-SB2. What would you recommend. I like the fact that the AMX is really slim and minimalist. How does it compare with the SB2 for my purposes ?
Personally I’d go with the SB2 if the size is not an issue - it would probably reflect more similarly to your main controller for practice purposes.
But if you don’t use the jogs much and you just want to do basic A>B mixing to get the feeling for your tracks in a really small package the AMX would be a nifty little controller to throw in your bag.
The AMX also comes with the full version of Serato, has a better soudncard and offers DVS in/outs if you ever go down that route.
honestly i never saw the point in “practicing” with headphones and using your computer mouse to manage the software… that doesnt really do anything in regards to helping you practice for a live set. its a completely different atmosphere and type of mixing, balancing a mix and properly cueing and fader leveling in headphones and then doing it live in a booth are nowhere near the same thing. if you want to do it for “fun”.. then sure, but i dont see it helping in a real “live” situation. if anything it’ll throw you off when you do want to mix live on speakers…
Thanks for all you advice and comments. I went ahead and ordered the Akai AMX. Yes, there are issues with the choice:
– no mic input
– wonky beat matching interface
– glued to Serato
– a different hardware interface, from my previous controller (Denon MC6000) and now Pioneer DDJSX2.
BUT,
– it will allow me to actually have a practice session on a real controller,
– i can use it conveniently in tight spaces or smaller parties, and
– use it as backup controller for large gigs.
– it comes with full serator package, thus some savings there..
Since I am a newbie, still trying to learn beatmatching, I wish the AMX had a simpler way of doing this, but alas … I will keep looking for ways to beatmatch efficiently on it.
I like my AMX. It’s nice and easy to take around for small events or even just practicing out some new genres at home. My only real advice is if you plan on gigging with it (even as a backup): it’s quiet as hell, so route it into another mixer so you can give it more volume. Of course, gain stage properly so you’re not redlining on the mixer (or Serato for that matter).
Also on the talk of gain staging, the gains on the AMX are limitless encoders and don’t dictate the gain within Serato iirc. That’s super annoying because there’s no visual reference for where the gain is along the spectrum. I usually double up one song, turn both gains down, turn channel A to where I want it, then match channel B using VU meters and my ear.
besides those two things, it’s a nice fun compact controller
