As the years go by, professional DJ equipment has come a long way. In today’s digital age, it is easier for DJs to pack their things and travel to shows but finding the best DJ equipment can be difficult. Disc Jockeys Now helps readers find the DJ equipment that is right for them, explaining how each piece is essential to a DJ’s work.
A Gig Bag
DJs need dedicated gig bags to safely transport all of their expensive electronic equipment. When choosing a gig bag, make sure that there is plenty of room for a mixer, crossfader, CD player, computer, and headphones. You will need to be able to get into your bag easily and pack your things away quickly after the gig. Having a sturdy gig bag will mean that you have fewer worries when it comes to traveling to gigs.
Turntable DJs
Turntable DJs are always ready to provide a nostalgic experience to their partygoers. Most people learn to DJ with a turntable setup, making this the most important setup to own. You will need two DJ turntables, two DJ cartridges, a DJ mixer, slipmats, DJ headphones, vinyl records, and an RCA cable to connect your mixer to the power equipment.
The best turntables are made by Pioneer, Reloop, and Numark. Any of these models will give you excellent sound in a conveniently portable package.
CD DJs
Most club DJs use this system. This system can play both CDs and digital media like thumb drives and hard drives. The needed equipment includes 2 CD turntables, a mixer, headphones, and plenty of digital sound files.
The best CDs for DJs are made by Pioneer. Some of the available features include jog wheels, cue points, loop buttons, and software integration. All of these features will help a DJ create the best possible experience for the party or club.
Computerized DJs
Today, many DJs choose to work with computerized setups alone. A computer, interface, and sound mixing board are all that is needed. The best software for this situation is made by Ableton.
Other Essential Equipment
Every DJ will experience problems during their sets at one point or another. There are many moving parts in a DJ setup, and if any one of them is compromised, you may not be able to create the sounds you want. It is a smart idea to pack a separate CD player with premixed CDs for your occasion, in case you encounter technical difficulties.
It is also wise to carry backup USB drives. Having several backups means that your music can go on without interruption even if something happens to one of your drives, such as it being lost or damaged.
Make sure that you have all of your power adapters. It is easy to forget one when you are packing for a gig. If you can get extra adapters for your equipment, that would be a smart move. Power adapters can sometimes fail, making it a good idea to carry duplicates whenever possible.
Ear Protection
Especially if you are working in a club, you may find that the ambient noise is loud enough so that you can’t hear your own mixes even through headphones. It is a good idea to get a pair of musician’s headphones, which can be worn beneath DJ headphones. These will give you a better idea of what your music actually sounds like.
Flashlights
It is generally quite dark where DJs work, particularly in a booth. It is smart to carry a small LED flashlight. This will make it easier to dig through your bag for equipment and will also help you when it is time to pack up.
Headphone Jack Adapters
Always carry a range of headphone jack adapters, since you may have to use another DJ’s equipment or the equipment that belongs to the venue.
Get Ready to DJ
When you have all of this essential equipment, you will be prepared for success as a DJ. The most important thing is to have backups for music, power, and headphones. These are the three areas which are most likely to fail during a gig. Disc Jockeys Now encourages all DJs to research the best types of equipment, leading to a more successful career.
