DJ STARTER EQUIPMENT - A GUIDE FOR THE BEGINNER DJ

So, you’ve got the music, the passion, and the dream of becoming a DJ. The electricity of the crowd, the seamless flow of one track into the next, the feeling of igniting a party with your skills – it’s an incredible vision. But then you walk into a music store and see a wall of unfamiliar equipment, knobs, buttons, and wires everywhere. It can be enough to stop anyone in their tracks.

Fear not, aspiring disc jockey! This blog is your one-stop guide to navigating the world of beginner DJ equipment, helping you find the perfect setup to launch your DJ journey.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be armed with the knowledge to confidently choose your DJ starter equipment and start mixing like a pro in no time. So crank up the volume on your headphones, hit play on your passion, and let’s get started!

Dj starter equipment - a guide for the beginner dj

What DJ Controller should I buy as a beginner?
What about Headphones?
Lets talk about speakers
Conclusion

WHAT DJ CONTROLLER SHOULD I BUY AS A BEGINNER?

First, and dauntingly foremost, you’ll need to get your hands on a controller. The Pioneer DDJ-200 is a beginner-friendly DJ controller known for its portability and affordability. It’s a great choice if you’re just starting out and want a compact setup to practice mixing at home.

It features all the essentials for learning the ropes, like jog wheels, faders, and basic effects, and even comes with a free DJ software license. However, keep in mind it won’t have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models. The jog wheels are on the smaller side, and it lacks features like dedicated looping controls. Also, it requires connecting to a device with an audio interface to hear your music. Overall, the DDJ-200 is a solid pick for absolute beginners who prioritize portability and a user-friendly layout for their DJing journey. You can shop the DDJ-200 on our website.

Now just in case all these words I just mentioned scared you, don’t worry. The DDJ-200 comes with free WeDJ and Rekordbox DJ software (which is otherwise paid) allowing easy compatibility with phones and computers, with plenty of tutorials and pop-up hints for the novice DJ to learn how both the software and hardware can be used.

If you’re looking for an even more budget-friendly option, the Hercules DJ DJControl Inpulse 200 mk2 is worth checking out. It offers similar features to the DDJ-200 at a slightly lower price point and also includes licenses for its own DJ software.

However, if you feel as though DJing is something you will stick with long term, and you want to avoid switching between a beginner and an intermediate level setup, the DDJ-FLX4 is a well-rounded controller offering more features than that of the DDJ-200.

Unlike the DDJ-200’s single channel with limited FX support, the Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 boasts industry-standard 2-channel mixing. This unlocks more creative possibilities and lets you experiment with blending techniques used by professional DJs. The FLX4 also features innovative Smart Fader and Smart Color Effects. These intelligent tools automate smooth transitions between tracks, allowing you to focus on music selection and beatmatching. The DDJ-200 relies solely on manual controls, which can be challenging for beginners.

The same can be said for the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 when comparing to the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200. It is also a slightly higher priced controller with more features, but compared to the FLX4, it is more geared towards beginners. It has a complete tutorial of the basics of DJing and working with both the hardware and software, and the controller itself has indicators which can be switched on or off with the push of a button, telling you when you need to align a track and/or bring up or down, the tempo of a track.

What about Headphones?

Next you will want a solid pair of headphones to listen to tracks and practice your sets. Something to consider while picking a pair of headphones is if they are light weight and comfortable enough to wear for long periods of time. They should also not have any pre-programmed EQ boosts, so that you can hear close to what your audience will hear during your set. Bluetooth headphones are not desirable in the world of music production and mixing because audio quality is lost.

The Behringer HPX6000 headphones are considered a budget-friendly option for beginner DJs. They are praised for their comfort and durability, and are a good option for DJs who are just starting out and need a pair of headphones that can handle the rigours of DJing. The closed-back design isolates you from external noise and prevents sound leakage from the headphones, allowing you to hear your mix clearly in loud environments like clubs or DJ booths.

Additionally, the headband and ear-cups can be adjusted to fit comfortably on your head for extended wear, a signature feature that differentiates DJ Headphones from regular mixing headphones. The ear-cups also swivel to allow single-ear monitoring.

In conclusion, embarking on your DJ journey requires careful consideration of your starter equipment. While the sheer variety of options can be daunting, focusing on a solid controller, reliable headphones, and quality monitoring speakers will provide a strong foundation. Remember that mastering the fundamentals of beatmatching, EQing, and music selection is far more crucial than possessing the most expensive gear. As you progress, your needs will evolve, and you can gradually upgrade your setup. Prioritize practice and dedication, and most importantly, enjoy the process of discovering your unique sound. With the right starter equipment and a passion for music, you’ll be well on your way to creating unforgettable mixes and captivating audiences.

LETS TALK ABOUT SPEAKERS

Selecting the right DJ speakers is paramount for any aspiring or professional DJ, and understanding the nuances of these audio devices is crucial for optimal performance.

When considering DJ speakers, the first major distinction lies between active and passive models. Active, or powered, speakers boast integrated amplifiers, simplifying setup and making them ideal for mobile DJs or smaller venues. Conversely, passive, or unpowered, speakers demand an external amplifier, offering greater customization and power output, often favored in permanent installations.

For home practice or studio work, studio monitors provide accurate sound reproduction, though they lack the robust volume of PA speakers designed for large-scale events. To enhance the low-end frequencies, subwoofers are essential, adding depth and impact to bass-heavy genres. Key specifications to evaluate include power output, measured in watts, which dictates loudness, and frequency response, indicating the range of audible sounds.

Speaker size influences bass production and volume, while connectivity options, such as XLR and RCA inputs, ensure compatibility with your DJ setup. Durability is also vital, as DJ speakers endure frequent transport and high-volume usage. Ultimately, the ideal DJ speakers depend on the venue size, music genre, and budget, necessitating thorough research and, if possible, auditioning before purchase to guarantee a sound system that meets your specific needs. Just to start, you may want to check out the DM 50D by Pioneer.