Want To Start DJ’ing but I don’t know where to start.
So previously I wanted a launch pad because it seemed cool on youtube, but then I realize how difficult and tedious it is. However, DJ’ing seems much more fun.. My issue is I cant be bothered to spend $250 on a DDJ-SB2. What are some cheap controllers that I can use for DJ’ing and starting a career that could lead me to reach my goal of the SB2. I would rather not buy a cheezy set for kids who want to “DJ” so please refrain from that. My max probably would be $150 but to be honest, I don’t know. Also, I dont have a mixer nor soundcard so if your recommending me a controller that requires one of those either link me to where I can buy the mixer and soundcard or just dont link it.
Download Mixxx from mixxx.org and try it out. DJing isn’t about cool hardware, it’s about playing music. Build up your music collection. Figure out your style of mixing and genres. Learn the craft while you save some money and do some research. That way, if you find that you don’t like it, you won’t have wasted money. It’s not the easy route, but you’ll thank me later, whichever way you decide.
Honestly - you get what you pay for. In DJing - along with many other activities - this is incredibly true.
You’re going to spend short money for something that has short features - or won’t last the long term. Watch used sites for gear you can pick up on the inexpensive. My best recommendation is look for an older Serato box (if your computer is compatible), any mixer, and turntables. It’ll get you started in a modular way you can take in other directions for the least amount of money - and is the path I personally went with.
Buy once, buy smart. Don’t waste your money on garbage else you’ll get bored with it.
To add, if you really must buy something, I’d suggest something like the Xone:K1. You could probably find a MIDI mapping for Mixxx that let’s you use two decks. They should be around $100. You won’t have an audio interface though.
I have been DJing on a laptop at home for about a year (on and off) and have realised that I’m out growing it now. I have been looking around myself and found I’d prefer to go for a modular DJ setup. I’d rather buy something pro/semi pro now that I won’t have to upgrade anytime soon, rather than buying a cheep full setup now that I will have to replace in a couple years time. Has anyone any ideas?
For example, my Allen & Heath DB4 does everything I really “need” to put together decent electronic music sets, due to it’s brilliant implementation of MIDI controls, and the fact it is already an excellent example of a top end mixer. But then it is a $2k mixer (or something, I’m not from the US, so don’t know the current pricing there, or here actually). And there is obviously no jog wheels or pitch controls (although you could potentially map something up to cover at least some of that, or add a K1/K2 and map that for such controls). It is also, obviously, modular, as it is, essentially “just” a mixer. Leaving you the scope to add media players (or CDJ’s) at a later date, and ditch software dependency.
But then, if you want media players, that are modular, and won’t necessitate the need for a laptop or the like, then the XDJ-1000’s (or 700’s for a cheaper set-up), or the likes of whatever Denon are about to release, coupled with a more traditional analogue mixer (like the A&H X92/X62, or DJM 850 / 900) would be the more traditional semi-pro / pro modular set-up. But then you are probably looking in excess of $2k just for the players, and another $1k+ for the mixer anyway.
It’s a VERY open question really, with a broad range of answers, that no-one can really shed any light on until they find out more about your intended use, and budget.
Pro / semi pro is known brands such as NI or Allen and Heath or pioneer. My budget is £150 but I’m just trying to get a small midi controller as a start to a modular setup. At the moment I play dance and house music.
I’m currently playing dance and house. My ideal would be something like what you said, an A&H mixer and a couple of k1/k2 s but as I’m not giging at the moment I don’t want to make a huge investment all at once. So now I’m just trying work out which is the best option for starting with a budget of £150 .
Also I was wondering what the best software is. The favorite seems to be traktor pro 2, as it has the whole remix deck thing and stems. But I heard somewhere that nothing beats using NI hardware with traktor , does that mean that using other hardware with traktor will limit the control you have or does it mean you just have to spend more time mapping ?
Doesn’t inhibit you at all. Most controllers will have a Traktor configuration online somewhere, as well as custom maps. If you want to move on to more elaborate control, more controllers can be added. You do have option to remap, and to be honest, the more you use and the more you experience, you’ll find out what works for you and what doesn’t.
I use Traktor Pro 2 with Denon MC6000mk2 and a Launchpad.
Rebornn - I assume you have a laptop you are planning on using and want a controller to make using the software easier as a place to start right? If you’re using Traktor I would recommend the Kontrol Z1 as a good simple starting place. You should be able to find a used one within your budget and it’s a pretty easy place to start and get a feel for things. It has a built in sound card so if you’re using Traktor you pretty much just hook it up and you’re ready to go.
I started off with just an iPad using Traktor DJ and a Z1 and it was a great way to learn IMO. I’ve since worked my way up but I think it’s best to start simple and learn until you feel like you’re ready to do more and need hardware that let’s you expand.
My max probably would be $150 but to be honest, I don’t know. Also, I dont have a mixer nor soundcard so if your recommending me a controller that requires one of those either link me to where I can buy the mixer and soundcard or just dont link it.