Disc jockeys work in a field that can be rather entertaining--and one that can also become very expensive. Knowing what kind of gear is right for you if you are just getting started in the DJ business is essential to having quality-sounding music and for your success.
Dishing Out The Dough
Decide if being a DJ is something you would like to do just for entertainment purposes or if it is something you would like to do professionally. If you choose the latter, then you must be willing to spend money on high-quality equipment. According to the Professional DJs website, professional-level gear runs about $1,000. If you are thinking of DJing for entertainment purposes or you cannot quite afford to spend a lot of money, you can always get equipment with the bare minimum features and work your way up.
The Right Equiptment
The most important part of the DJ setup is the deck. The deck is otherwise known as the turntable; these can be used with vinyl or with CDs. You may need two if you plan to mix between two CDs. If you decide you wish to use vinyl, you will also need slip mats. These allow you to spin or scratch the records easily. Decks come with a variety of features so make sure you are getting the deck that works best for you.
Next you want a mixer. A mixer is what enables the DJ to blend two audio signals to each other. Of course you cannot play music without speakers. Consider a few things when purchasing speakers. Make sure you are choosing the right size speaker; if you get a speaker that is too small, it may be a struggle to get your music heard, and too large of a speaker may mean you are wasting power. Also decide whether you want powered speakers, which according to beatsbase.com, have built-in amplifiers versus non-powered speakers, which do not. (Since the non-powered speakers do not have amplifiers they are required to be hooked into a system that does.) If you are at the point where you cannot afford a good set of speakers, www.famousdjs.com suggests using your own home stereo, which can work just as well until you can afford the more expensive ones.
Another thing to remember is if you want the non-powered speakers you must then buy or have a amplifier to produce the sound.
Lastly, a DJ needs headphones to help the DJ listen to the next song he wants to play before playing it over the live speakers.
Ready To Rock
DJs can purchase their equipment at electronic stores or online. The DJ can also borrow the equipment if she doesn't mind having something used. Shop around to know what you want to work with and what fits your style and budget.
