Archive for the ‘DJ Equipment Tips and Techniques’ Category

This weekend, I was DJ'ing a wedding and a guy (I'm assuming the brides friend) came up to me and my buddy and told us to play "Paradise By The Dashboard Light" by Meatloaf.  He said he was a DJ and everyone would love it and we nicely said no.  I haven't heard that song played at a wedding since my wedding 10 years ago and we weren't going to shift gears just for him.  The dude went up to the bride and told her we should play Paradise By The Dashboard Light. 

Let me repeat what I just said again in another way to show you how ludicrous this was.  He intruded on the bride and interrupted her with her new husband to tell her that the DJ should play a song.  That is so inconsiderate! The bride then felt obligated to come up to us to tell us and this is what she said.   "Hey guys, I don't even know this song but my friend wants you to play it."  Then she said "I don't care what you do to be honest."  

Towards the end of the night, my MC annouced that we would be playing one last SLOW song of the night. The guy came running up to us all pissed off and says, "What do you mean this is the last song of the night, how could this be the last song of the night?"  Chris and I in unison said, last SLOW song.  The drunk DJ guy walked away still all pissed off. 

At the end of the wedding, my MC annouced that we were really playing the last song of the night and the drunk DJ dude ran up to me and yelled "What about Paradise?"  I could tell he was fuming  while he insisted on me playing that song.  I said "dude you're not getting the song".  He started cursing and giving us the finger and said "You Guys SUCK." 

Here's the funny thing DJ Masteriminds, He had been dancing and having a great time with his girlfriend all night long.   I think his ego was getting the best of him because if he was really that good of a DJ, the bride woluld have asked him to entertain her wedding instead of us.  What do you think?

DJ Masterminds Tip:

Stick to your programming, Don't let people influence your decisions unless you agree with them 100%, and be confident and stern with people who are giving you a hard time trying to tell you how to DJ.

Recommendation:

If you want to really learn how to grow and maintain a profitable DJ business, get this ebook.

How To DJ

DJ'ing has become very popular in the last few years especially since technology has allowed a non-technical person to become a Pro DJ in a few weeks when equipped with the right Digital Scratching Tools available on laptops.  
This article will teach a person to DJ and what equipment they will need after the purchase of a laptop to start mixing beats like a pro.  If you want to learn how to dj get over to www.howtodjpro.com.

Things You'll Need:

*  Laptop
*  Program
*  Mixer (optional)
*  Cables
*  Speakers

Step 1:

Purchase a laptop:

Look for a good brand Laptop that you know will not crash during a gig.  If you are looking for a PC, I would recommend closely looking at customer reviews, talk to electronic store sales people, and even ask your friends what laptops they may recommend.  The great thing about a PC is that a consumer can get a phenomenal computer with all the bells and whistles for a very affordable price.  The problems PC's face are viruses that infiltrate that operating systems and crash the hard drives erasure program, music, and important data.

Consider a Macbook.  They are absolutely more money and don't offer all the bells and whistles the new PC's are coming out with, but they do offer stability, consistency, optimal performance, and are not nearly as susceptible to the viruses a PC can get.

Step 2:

Demo (trial) DJ Software before you buy it:

You can get a bunch of free DJ programs to start with BUT these programs do not offer what the paid programs do.  There are so many free programs that they are unnameable at this point but the ones that you should look into are Virtual DJ, Traktor, etc.  These are programs that must be bought but offer things like, playlist controls, beat mixing features, sync mixing features, skins that look like real mixers, etc.  The free programs will not do what you really need to do as a laptop DJ.  

You can stop here if you just want to practice before getting into the equipment you'll need to start DJ'ing gigs. You can even DJ smaller partied with good laptop speakers any time you want.  To become an advance DJ with good sound equipment, move on to step 3.

Step 3:

You have your laptop and DJ Software, now you need a mixer:

You have to plug your laptop into a mixer of some sort.  You will output the speakers from your mixer. Mixers are fairly inexpensive and can be bought at your local music store. A 4 channel mixer would be fine.  Some DJ Software Programs offer an USB external sound card.  These sound boxes allow for separation of the Left and Right Channels.  If you do purchase a usb external sound box you would run a 1/4" cable out from the LEFT channel to channel 1 on the mixer.  You would run a 1/4" cable out from the RIGHT channel on the box to Channel 2 on the mixer.

IF you DO NOT have an USB external sound card, then you will be using the "OUT" or "Headphone" jack and run an 1/8" out of the computer to 1/4" into Channel 1 on the mixer.

Step 4:

You have your laptop, DJ program, Mixer, now you need speakers.

To keep you set-up simple but still powerful, invest in POWERED (Active) speakers. (Speaker that you need to plug in to get to work).  If you get passive (non-powered speakers) you will need separate amplifiers connected to you mixer.  Powered speakers are more expensive but will punch/kick your music better and your dj set-up will be much simpler.

You will need 2 XLR cables.  The female end will get plugged out from the mixer and into the speakers (Left/Right outputs).  Buy 2 Speaker stands if possible.

Step 5:

You have your laptop, dj software, mixer (optional usb external sound card box), 1 1/'4 – 1/8" cable, powered speakers, 2 xlr cables, and speaker stands. You just need your favorite music and you are ready to start practicing to become a pro DJ.

Additional DJ mixing Resources:  learn how to DJ

Things You'll Need:

*  laptop
*  DJ software
*  1/8" plug to 1/4"connector cable
*  Speakers or a system to plug into

So you want to learn how to DJ on your laptop. you need decent software that you can download off the internet. Some of the better programs will cos you but are completely worth the money.  These programs have trial periods to mess around with, so I suggest you do that right now.  My 2 favorite are Traktor PRO and Virtual DJ, However I use virtual DJ. (I use these programs on a MAC and PC.

You need good music, and the right kind. You have to consider the events you want to DJ for.  Go to Itunes and look up the "Top Songs" and download the styles of music you may need from the Top Songs list. When looking at a genre in Itunes, you will notice the songs that are most popular by looking at the Download meter net to the song. Songs to Have on hand: recent top 40 (rock, beat hip hop, and dance), Old favorites like Frank Sinatra, Classic rock (haha… just look up "Guitar Hero" or "Rock Band" popular songs … seriously). Also look up most popular songs from 2000, the, 90's, 80's, and disco.  make yourself a music budget and keep to it.

Playing the songs the right way! ALWAYS cross fade. Do not cut songs off and then start other songs cold. You want to avoid any type of accidental musical silence.  If you are playing a dance set, you want to BEAT MIX right.  look a the BPM (Beats Per Minute) and try to find songs within 5-10 bpm's of each other. Never go drastic (from 100 to a song that's 130 or 130 to a song that is 100) you will lose your dancers. However, it is ok to do this if you are changing the feel of your set.  Try to beat mix whenever possible. HOW? Oh My Gosh! You will love this!  When playing a song on your left side, keep your fader to the left and choose a song to go on your right side (similar BPM).  Hit play on the right side and Hit the "SYNC" button. This synchronizes your beats. now slide the slider slowly to the right. keep practicing you PRO!!

DJ/MC Chris D'Amico of East Hanover, NJ

DJ Chris Tyrpak of Vernon, NJ

DJ/MC Andy Rael of East Hanover, NJ

DJ/MC Anthony Destefano of Kinnelawn, NJ

DJ/MC Paul Schick of Harriman, NY

DJ/MC George Peterson of Morristown NJ

DJ/MC Rick Rodriguez of East Stroudsburg, PA

DJ/MC Carol Moore of Manhattan New York

So a good friend of mine works for a major middle-man supplier of audio/dj equipment who sells to companies like Guitar Center and Sam Ash.   I met up with him at one of my Gravity rehearsals (A cover band that I am playing guitar, keys, and sax in) and he said there really isn't anything revolutionary that has been introducted in the market, at least not something practical.  A few months ago I was doing some research on new equipment and I found a really cool touch screen controller for Virtual DJ!!  Here is the video for that.

This next one is CRAZY COOL!!!!!  It's a transparent DJ media controller!!  Not only does it look cool, it looks AMAZING.  I'm sure you'll see dance clubs investing in these in the near future. 

Ok, remember earlier in the article I said there was really nothing out there.  Well there isn't for your typical event /club dj but these devices will probably be seen at parties more often as the prices decrease. DJ media controllers like the Denon HD series, Pioneer's MEP (SEP) 7000, Numark, and vinyl emulation CDJ's are still populating the booth's of most DJs. 

Just like the first $10,000 dollar 50" flat screen plasma came down in price within a few years, this new DJ technology will also become more affordable and accessible to the general public.  Until then, if you are looking for the newest and most practical DJ'ing tools, Virtual DJ and a top brand media player/controller will probably be your best bet. 

CHEERS

Vinyl, Cd's, laptops, media controller? What are DJ's using out there at events? We are going to be talking about how cd's are on their way out and laptops and media players are taking over the DJ booths. We'll talk about Club DJ's and Vinyls in following podcasts.

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Last night our DJ company performed and had a table at a bridal showcase at the Hilton in Parsippany NJ.  There were 3 other Entertainment Companies at the showcase who were competing for the attention of the brides shuffling around.  There was a photographer to the left of our DJ booth and there was an ALL-In-One wedding company to the right.  It was pretty amazing to see that this company provided wedding consultation, event planning, limo services, photographers, videographer, and DJ services.  Not sure how i feel about these "One Stop Shops".  Please email me or comment to let me know what you think.  I am just thinking that how can you really be good at one thing if you offer so many products and services.  My company is purely an entertainment production company. 

We have been doing this for 12 years and we are growing bigger every single month. Why?  Because we are good and we focus on entertaining, that's it.  Anyway, I a digressing a little bit.  Let's get back to the bridal showcase.  This showcase was a bit smaller which may be good to get you started and I think if you really want to start promoting your DJ or Entertainment services you really should get involved with bridal showcases.   You may or may not get business but it's worth the experience of just talking to other vendors and getting used to speaking with clients.  We have done 3 showcases in the last 4 months and we have generated thousands of dollars in business however lets put in in perspective.  At every show we speak and pitch our company between 30-50 brides, sometimes more, however only a handful book.  It's still really worth it for us.  it may cost us $500 to get a table but these handful of brides are worth thousands to us. 

Why don't more brides book? Brides are just looking for information at these showcases because a lot of the have no idea what is involved with planning a wedding.  Many of them are hungry for discounts and deals.  Although we can customize packages, we are not a discount/package deal entertainment company.  I will tell you what I told a bride last night, "You get what you pay for".  Some of our competitors charge hundreds less than we do, but our integrity and what we offer has put us above the rest.  As a new DJ, you'll need to charge less, no question.  But get out at these bridal shows and start gaining experience and some business.  Do you have something that other Dj's don't offer?  Can you offer something else with your DJ services to entice a bride to book with you.  Just get out there and network yourself and your business.  Once the host opens the door and the brides begin shuffling in, how do you approach them and get them to talk to you?  Comment on this blog and I will share with you how to tastefully get their attention without scaring them away like jumping on them like a salesman at a car dealership.

More on Showcases to follow!

The first thing that you'll need to do if you want to DJ on a Laptop is choose the right laptop that fits your needs.  If you do not own a laptop yet, research laptops that won't crash during a gig.  look at customer reviews, talk to electronic store sales people, and even ask your friends about laptops they may recommend.  Mac computers are ideal for DJ’ing, however even the basic mac computers will be more expensive than other computers.   You will see in reviews that Mac laptops rarely give DJ's any problems. 

Most DJ’s today are already or are learning how to dj on laptops.  I use Apple’s Macbook which has never given me a problem when Dj’ing. Many DJ’s use PC’s but tend to have more glitches that can interfere with performances. My Macbook has dual processors, enabling me to use windows software when necessary.  While I use the Mac software for my iTunes DJ software, my Denon HD2500 is only windows compatible.

DJ’s are entertaining entire weddings and club gigs on laptops connected to speakers. Many DJ's, especially turntable DJ's will question whether this is real DJ'ing.  It's true that most generic music software can not really mix the way DJs want to mix, however some programs have all the functions and capabilities to make a new DJ sound like a Professional in a very short period of time.

Real programs like Virtual DJ, Traktor, and Serato Scratch/Itch are taking the industry by storm. 28 This software allows a DJ to cross-fading, beat-mixing, organize, and even AUTOMIX your playlists. I would not recommend using AUTO-MIX when beat-mixing on your laptop because soem beats may sound awkward.  I do however like using the SYNC feature to seamlessly match beats before bringing in my second song.  Just remember, especially when learning to DJ on a laptop, to be careful when trying to "Sync" songs with drastic BPM's (Beats-Per-Minute) as your songs will sound funny if they are played too slow or too fast. You can experience great DJ mixes and suggested song transitions at http://www.mixesthatwork.com.

If the BPM (beats-per-minute) range is too wide, the song may not sound correct when fading in. For example, a song with a 130 bpm cannot be properly beat-mixed to a song at 100 bpm, it just wouldn’t sound right.  Make sure your KEY (PITCH) is LOCKED.  When the Key(pitch) is locked, you can speed up or slow down the song without changing the pitch.

What You Need To Be A DJ

DJ Media Controller

Media Player/Controller that plays Digital Audio Files

If you are not using a laptop, plug the media controller directly into a DJ Mixer

Using a Laptop with a DJ Media Controller?

Find a good media controller

You'll need very good DJ Laptop software (keep reading to find out where you can get this information)

Once yout laptop is set up to play your music, Plug into an External Sound Box

Then Plug the External Sound Box into a Mixer (2-4 channel with crossfader)

Connect to DJ Speakers

Once you have your player connected to your DJ MIXER, connect your DJ mixer to your speakers XLR cables.

For DJ equipment (media players controllers, dj mixers, dj speakers, dj accessories and gig stuff) and DJ software recommendations spend the few dollars and get DJ Masterminds Event DJ Guide To Success. Don't GUESS!  I have already done ALL THE WORK FOR YOU!  This DJ ebook will explain every little detail on what you need to be a dj.  You'll have a full DJ set up and be DJ'ing like a PRO in a few weeks!   How To Be A DJ

MUSIC and DJ MIxes:

You'll need music playlists.  For great DJ mixes and playlists visit: DJ Mixes That Work

The ipad 2 is great for any DJ, however you'll have to find the right application.  As you may already know. there are so many garbage applications for the iPad.  Unfortunately most of the DJ iPad applications fall into this catagory.  As of right now, do not buy any applications with low reviews like these: Mixer 3, Mix Muse dj HD, Turntable DJ, Analog Scratch DJ,Mix DJ, or any that have ratings of one or two stars.  

An iPod DJ application that has been getting great reviews and one that I personally love is called "djay"  it's a little more expensive than the other applications but at least you'll finally get what you pay for.  With the djay app you can simply load and mix tracks.  If you don't like Djay or if you want to look at something else, take a look at DJ World Studio!  This is another really cool iPad application for Dj's. "Baby Decks"  is an older application that many iPad users have downloaded but Djay and World DJ are rating much better. 

If you want to learn how to plug your iPad directly to a DJ system, pick up my ebook "DJ Masterminds"  <a href=”http://www.djmasterminds.com/dj-ebook/”>DJ Ebook</a>.

The Pioneer MEP 7000 Media Controller

The Pioneer MEP 7000 has really taken DJ'ing into a new level of professionalism.  The MEP 7000 is media controller (with Side A and Side B) that controls CD decks and it also connects to external hard drives (iPods included) to load your digital audio files.  

The set-up is fairly simple.  Connect the MEP 7000 to any DJ mixer (obviously connected to speakers) and your ready to mix your tracks with CD's or by connecting your external hard drive. The proper set-up includes a rack to mount the unit.  The rack will have a top mount to mount the controller and mixer, and a front rack to mount the cd unit and power strip.  Once you plug the mixer to your speakers, you're ready to rock and roll!

Pioneer's MEP 7000 does everything you need it to do. It has 2 sturdy scratch wheels, play, cue, jog, scratch mode, and it even comes with pretty slammin' effects all ready to go with a push of a button.    The large color screen is not only easy on the eyes but it makes looking for songs simple.  The controller makes it easy for anyone to scroll through playlists and makes finding songs stress free.  Along with scrolling through the playlists, you can search for songs by even using a keyboard connected via usb.  The best habit you can get into is organizing your songs in set-lists/playlists in the folders within the external device you are using.  If you would like great ideas for playlists and recommended beat mixes, visit Mixes That Work.

The Pioneer MEP 7000 (Pioneer's SEP) also has the capability to act as a laptop media controller for great DJ programs like Serato, Virtual DJ, Traktor, and PC DJ.  Instead of using your mouse to mix music on your laptop, connect the MEP 7000 and you'll be able to access all of the great features and capabilities of your DJ software on a real dj system. 

The Pioneer MEP 7000 has been around for a few years now and will continue to be one of the most powerful dj controllers in the industry.  Once you get one, you'll discover it has a thousand more features and functions that you can easily learn and then apply as a DJ.  I'm not sure if you'll find any other DJ controllers with the versatily and functionaly of the MEP 7000.

Denon HD2500 Media Controller Review

I have been using the Denon HD2500 for 2 years now and although it has annoyed me a few times,  it has been a phenomenal DJ media controller.   The HD2500 has a 40 gig built in hard drive and the unit comes with it's own software so you can create playlists on your laptop or PC.  My first gripe with the Denon HD 2500 was that the software is not Mac compatible.  

I am primarily a Mac user and I wasn't happy when I needed to install a windows operating system on my Mac's Bootcamp just to use the software.  Once I accessed the software and plugged the unit to my Macbook via USB, I also did not find it very easy to load and convert songs with the proper song information.   I probably spent 2 days trying to load 40 gigs worth of songs (and then correct the song data) on the external hard drive. 

What I loved about the Denon HD2500 as well was the capability to use it to control DJ Software like Traktor and Virtual DJ, of course using a windows operating system. I played around with it for a while and it was really cool!   Although using the HD2500 as a media controller works great, my intentions were to plug in an external hard drive and play all of my digital audio files.

If you are going to use it to read an external hard drive, you'll have to get a powered USB hub to be able to plug in multiple devices, like a second hard drive or a keyboard.  You can also plug in iPods, however another set back is that it does not read the iPod touch, at least not at the time I bought it. 

I was able to plug in my 250 gig external hard drive, with 100 gigs of music and simply create a new database.  After about 30 minutes, the HD2500 is able to read all of the folders on the hard drive.   I was excited to see how easy everything loaded onto the device, but I noticed a lot of my songs were missing.  Then I looked at the manual and found out the device does not read Mp4's or AAC files.  It mainly reads mp3's. Oh this really frustrated me.  I had to spend another day converting all my mp4's to mp3's.  After I did that, all of my songs were loaded on the media controller and I was once again excited to get mixing.  Although I went through a few frustrating days, from then on, I made sure I converted everything into mp3 files before loading them on to the device.

The big white and blue screen on the HD2500 sits between the 2 scratch wheels.  It's easy to read and navigate through the each feature with the knob selector on each side.  What I like about this media controller is that the screen is basically split into 2 sides, side A and side B.  You can easy find songs and scroll through playlists.  After a song is selected and is playing, it is easy to see the necessary track information, like the name of the song, the BPM's, and the time lapse.  Talking about BPM's, This media controller also has a key lock feature to keep the song in the original "Key" as you move the pitch slider up and down to change the tempo.

I love the features of the device.  On the top of the unit,  you'll find  3 built in effects; flange, filter, and echo/loop. As you press the effect button, you'll spin the scratch wheel to control the depth of each built in effect.  On the bottom of the scratch wheels you'll find 3 addition features including "Brake" (which stops the music like when a record player is turned off), "Dump" (when you know a bad word is coming up you can press this and it jumbles the music for as long as the button is depressed), and Reverse (self explanatory).   Yo can also "Hot Start" and create slammin' loops with the "Looping" buttons.  I'm telling you that once you get on this thing, it gets addicting and it's so much fun!

This unit can do so much more but I wanted to mention one more thing that I enjoy about the Denon HD2500.  The unit can crossfade and relay tracks. This is a great feature to use when you need to continuously play a playlist without you having to be there.   During dinner sets or cocktail hours, I push the "continuous play" feature and I can walk away and enjoy the party. 

I think I covered all of the major features and benefits of the Denon HD2500.  Again it's an affordable unit that is simple to use.  You may find some difficulty in setting up the software if you are trying to do it on a Mac, and you may find it frustrating that you have to convert most of your files to mp3's,  but other than that it should be smooth sailing.   If you decide to buy the HD2500, check for software updates as they may have improved the software functionality. 

The Denon HD2500 is one of the most recommended media players in the industry.  As with any technology, you will encounter issues and glitches.  The key is figuring out how to overcome each challenge and learning how to truly master your device.  You can visit DJ Masterminds for more mixing techniques on the HD2500.

Just about everyone owns a laptop and anyone with a music playlist thinks they can DJ a partry.  I am a music teacher at a school and today an eighth grade girl offered to DJ her friend's graduation party using her laptop.  I asked her if she had any DJ software for her laptop and she said she had iTunes.  Now iTunes has a program called iTunes DJ.  It loads songs that are similar to the songs initially loaded.  I think it's cool. There is also a really cool online website called Pandora.  This loads any type of genre or style of music that you like.  If you want a slow lounge type of music, Pandora can do that. If you want the best classic rock hits played all day, Pandora can do that.  If you want club music played, Pandora can do that.   You can use either iTunes DJ or Pandora on your laptop to play playlists of great music all day long however,  but playlists don't make a great party, the Laptop DJ does.

Usually when someone is DJ'ing a party, the person in control of the music usually dictates the excitement at the party.  If you want to be a laptop DJ, you'll need more than a subscription to Pandora and an auto playlist on iTunes.  You'll want to read your crowd, understand what type of music the guests may like, and then make changes according to requests or just simply watching the vibe of each music set.  Most importantly a Laptop DJ, when using the right DJ Software, can choose the right songs and the seamlessly mix each some into each other.  Programs Like Virtual DJ, Traktor, PC DJ, and DJay make DJ'ing a snap!  You can control the pitches of each song, tempo, add samples, auto-sync beats, and even scratch using a media controller with your laptop software. 

If you have a laptop and want to learn to DJ for real, invest in one of these programs.  They don't cost a lot, they are a ton of fun, and they will truly make you a real laptop dj. Although you can literally plug your laptop into any computer speakers using your headphone jack, it might be a good idea to invest in better speakers, maybe a small mixer, and invest in a media controller so you can scratch and mix like a real DJ on your laptop.   The DJ Masterminds Ebook covers everything you need to know so pick up a copy if you have not done this yet at www.djmasterminds.com.  Just remember that all these music playlist programs are useful but they are not what is going to make a great party.  Pandora Doesn't, iTunes Doesn't, but the Laptop DJ Does.

Learn to beatmix music the right way.  There is a right way and a wrong way to beatmix.  I'll teach you how to use the tempo, pitch control, and key lock properly to your mixes sounding flawless.

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Why is being a truly mobile DJ so important? What exactly is a Mobile DJ? Any DJ that travels to an event is essentially a mobile DJ and learn how new dj technology can help you at your future gigs.

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Network Marketing Your DJ Business

The first step you should take, immediately after registering your business, is ordering business cards. A popular website to consider is www.vistaprint.com. You can order basic business cards for free (just pay for shipping), or customize your design for a higher cost. I would also recommend paying a little bit more to have them expedited.

Ground shipping can take two to three weeks and I’m sure you’re excited to get your business started right away. Make sure on your cards you include your business name, your name, address, phone number, and even what type of events you plan on DJ’ing (Clubs, Wedding, Sweet 16’s, Bar-Bat Mitzvahs, Birthdays, Kids Parties, Corporate etc.).

Once you receive your business cards, start talking to people and handing out your cards. This is called network marketing and is the most powerful business strategy on the planet. The most successful network marketers and business owners first focus on developing a relationship with their contacts.

After a relationship is established, you can introduce your business. Just remember that people do business with people first, not a product or service. Once someone gets to know you, they are very likely to start recommending you to others.

Whoever thought making mistakes is a good thing?  Actually, the more mistakes you make, the better you will get, obviously if you learn from them.  Successful people succeed because they probably made the most mistakes!  Make mistakes and become a pro!

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Do you want to launch a quick career as a DJ? You can do it with these 5 basic steps.  Continue learning industry tips and tricks here at DJ Masterminds while you build your career!

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Check out this Article on Squidoo: http://www.squidoo.com/lensmaster/new_workshop/dj-equipment-for-beginners.

This Should give you all you need to begin to DJ on an iPod, Laptop, iPad, and even one of those really cool Media Controllers!

Learning to DJ on an iPod will bring you one step closer into the future of DJ’ing. Can you imagine walking in as a DJ to a wedding or dance party with all your equipment on your back in a backpack. Though technology is not quite there yet, it certainly seems to be moving in that direction with devices like the iPod. iPods (iPhone incuded) are tiny but plays music like any digital music system. The key to successfully becoming an iPod DJ is having the right knowledge and equipment to become a pro DJ on your iPod.

You can use only an iPod to play music but you certainly would not be considered a DJ.  The iPod itself is very limiting when it comes to being able to control the audio.  Consider purchasing some type of iPod DJ application which may allow you to have more control over the audio.  This includes fading, beat-mixing, cross-fading, and effects.  If you only use the iPod player, you’ll find yourself with awkward silences, choppy dance sets, and funny looks from the crowd.

iPod DJ Application Choices: Watch Out!

You’ll find many iPod applications that may be able to help you sound more like a professional iPod DJ. The iPod applications that you want to look for must have 2 important features.  The first necessary feature is the cross-fading feature that will allow you to transition smoothly from one song to another. The second feature that you will need is a beat-mixing feature. This feature allows you to synchronize beats of songs allowing smooth transitions keeping your dance floor moving and packed, literally without missing a beat.

Many applications are very ineffective and not worth the money, even for a dollar. Read reviews before purchasing an application for your iPod.  Make sure you truly understand how the music is loaded into the DJ Application.  Many of the DJ and music playing applications only allow their own samples and songs.   You’ll need to be able to load and play your OWN music playlists/databases.

Cross-fading DJ Application tool
One example of an application for cross-fading and also reviews well as a DJ application is called Cue Play DJ and can be found on iTunes:

http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cue-play-dj/id358126018?mt=8

You can DJ anywhere with this application. Cue Play DJ is an advanced and fully-featured digital solution for the iPhone and iPod Touch. Regardless of where you are, you can bring with you a DJ booth where one track seamlessly blends into another as you control every aspect of you audio experience.

Cue Play DJ lets you experience real DJ’ing using an interface that id similar to stepping into a true DJ Booth. The fun begins when you are ready to move from practicing to performing. Cue Play DJ can wirelessly broadcast to your PC or Mac Allowing you to use your iPhone or iPod as a monitor. This feature gives you the ability to create dance club environment that you control from the palm of your hands.  This Application will give you the proper controls to be an effective ipod dj.

Put great mixes together by visiting http://www.mixesthatwork.com

Prioritize, Priorities, Prioritize

I DJ'ed a co-worker's birthday party at his house and gave him a discounted price of $200 for 4 hours.  Usually for a small event like that I charge around $350-$450.  A few days later, his friend contacted me to DJ her daughter's birthday party.  I quoted her my house party price of $350 and she asked if I could do it for $150. I said no, but I referred her to a DJ who would do it for $150.00.

To spend the time planning for the event, meeting with the client, driving to the event, setting up the equipment, DJ'ing the party, breaking down the equipment, driving home, and most of all giving up a night I could have spent with my wife and kids, is not worth $150.00 to me. I have a friend, who is not as experienced as me who would have happily profited 150 bucks.

My time is very valuable and within the last few years, I have learned that prioritizing has helped me live a much better and more stable life.  Most importantly, I have learned to say no.  Most new DJ's, and actually any newbie in any industry, has a difficult time saying no because they don't want to turn down a profit.  Professional DJs not have no problem saying no, especially when their schedule begins to fill up.  The sooner you start saying no, the closer you are to becoming professional DJ.

With my knowledge and my experience, I am worth what I charge.  Although you can find 101 DJs charging $350.00 to DJ a large events, most people would rather come to me, and my prices are much much higher.  I'll charge between $1000.00 and $1500.00 for a basic wedding package or large event package.  I run a high quality DJ business and nothing less.

I offer online planning services, personal meetings, include special lights, an MC to coordinate the event, preferential playlists, over a decade of experience, and a professional sound system. I spend a lot of time planning for each event, meeting with the client, creating music playlists, purchasing songs from iTunes, and last but not least, perform at the event.  My prices are justified.

My time, and your time, is very valuable.  Don't undercharge just for the sake of making a quick profit.  Stand firm on your prices and confident in your abilities.  Evaluate your priorities and learn to say no.  Your time is valuable and is often better spent on other things like your family.  If the price justifies your worth, take the job. Otherwise, stand your ground, turn it down, and continue enjoying your journey as a professional DJ.

The first step you should take, immediately after registering your business, is ordering business cards.  A popular website to consider is www.vistaprint.com.  You can order basic business cards for free (just pay for shipping), or customize your design for a higher cost.  I would also recommend paying a little bit more to have them expedited. Ground shipping can take two to three weeks and I’m sure you’re excited to get your business started right away.  Make sure on your cards you include your business name, your name, address, phone number, and even what type of events you plan on DJ’ing (Clubs, Wedding, Sweet 16’s, Bar-Bat Mitzvahs, Birthdays, Kids Parties, Corporate etc.).  

Once you receive your business cards, start talking to people and handing out your cards. This is called network marketing and is the most powerful business strategy on the planet.  The most successful network marketers and business owners first focus on developing a relationship with their contacts. After a relationship is established, you can introduce your business. Just remember that people do business with people first, not a product or service.   Once someone gets to know you, they are very likely to start recommending you to others.

For Online Marketing Tools, Check Out DJ Mastermind's Ebook…..coming soon!

• iPod
• iPod DJ Application Optional
• 10 – 12” Speaker (active) You may use one speaker
• 1/8” – 1/4” cable to plug into first speaker from iPod console (or  1/8” to XLR Male to plug into first speaker from iPod Console)
• 10 – 12” Speaker (active) – This speaker is daisy chained from 1st speaker using XLR Female – XLR Male.  This will plug into second speaker FROM first speaker
• Speaker Poles Optional but suggested

• 2 iPods
• iPod DJ Application optional
• 2 channel DJ mixer10 – 12” Speaker (active) If desired, you may use one speaker
• 10 – 12” Speaker (active) – This speaker is daisy chained from 1st speaker1/8” – 1/4” cable to plug into first speaker OR  1/8” – XLR Male to plug into first speakerXLR Female – XLR Male to plug into second speaker FROM first speaker
• Speaker Poles Optional but suggested

DJ Masterminds on iTunes

I use a few components with my digital dj system.  I use my iPod, my laptop to play background music, and I use my Media Controller with external usb to do my beat-mixing. I use a Denon 2500 and I love it! It’s not the most expensive controller on the market like Pioneer’s MEP7000 but it’s perfect for my needs.

It has the 2 sides with scratch wheels, pitch controls, and all the usual dj stuff that dj’s need, but it accesses my 360 gig hard drive with all my music (30,000 songs). it has a big screen in the middle and I can pull up any song in a matter of seconds with the usb keyboard attached to it. It even has flange, echo, braking, reverse, and some other cool effects that I can use by pushing some buttons. I like the feel of cuing songs, playing with tracks with the cue buttons, and using skill to beat mix. It’s not the same when a computer can beat-mix for you.

As you consider a Digital DJ music system, consider really learning how to dj and learn the in’s and out’s of the industry. Even if you decide to dj on just a laptop, know your music and know your mixes. After you pick up a system, be sure to check out MixesThatWork for song ideas, great mixes, and the most popular techiques being used in the industry.

I love laptops! I use Apple’s Macbook which I think is the greatest computer ever made. PC’s are pretty awesome too but they tend to have more glitches that can interfere with performances. I actually have a Macbook with dual processors, which means I have my Mac operating software and Windows when I need it. Why? Some software I utilize only works on a PC. When I get the Mac versions, I will be switching over.

Someone can DJ an entire wedding or club event on just a laptop connected to speakers, but how cools does it really look “spinning” with a mouse and a screen. Not Cool DJ’s! Most dj software makes it easy to play songs and control the audio but programs like Virtual DJ, Traktor, and Serato Scratch provide the best cross-fading and beat-mixing visual and audio technology. Without any DJ’ing experience whatsoever, a person can look and sound like a pro just by hitting a button on the track called “SYNC”.

This “SYNC” button will match beats automatically and then allows you to seamlessly fade the other track in. However, there are possibilities of even doing this wrong. If the BPM (beats-per-minute) range is too wide, the song may not sound correct when fading in. For example, a song with a 130 bpm cannot be properly beatmixed to a song at 100 bpm, it just wouldn’t sound right.

What to buy, what to buy? Now is the time to really think about how you would like to play your music; through an iPod, through a Laptop, or through a media player with a controller. A good dj will have an effective digital dj music system. By this, I mean the dj will need to be able to control 2 songs at the same time to either fade-cross mix or beat mix. iPods and Laptops will play music files through the “audio out”, but this will leave the dj with only one channel of music making it impossible to crossfade or beat-mix, therefore being an ineffective dj.

An iPod itself cannot split it’s audio into 2 channels, but there are media players that you can plug an ipod into, like Numark’s IDJ and IDJ2 which turns it into a music database. The music can then be loaded into separate tracks, A and B. These media players are not too expensive (between $300-$600), are decent quality, and can turn a person who just owns an ipod, into a person who now owns an ipod and DJ’s!!!

It amazes me when I go to parties and see dj’s still with crates and books of cd’s. We are now in the 21st century and the only reason why dj’s still use cd’s is that they have not updated their dj system. I do understand this as buying new equipment is not always affordable.

I actually have cd decks in my system just in case someone at a party wants me to play a cd. I also have learned how to burn a hundred mp3′s on to one cd, as a backup. Digital DJ music systems can get quirky and freeze during a performance but this rarely happens. During the transition from CD’s to digital media, I do still think it is important to own a cd player or have a cd deck in your digital system. I just don’t see the need to bring crates of heavy music when a 30,000 song data base of songs can fit on a 1 pound external hard drive.

What do you do when your good DJ equipment goes bad? It really doesn’t matter how good the brand is or how much you spent on a piece of equipment. Learn how to prepare when a DJ disaster strikes.

Generally speaking, the more money an item costs, the better the quality may be. Consider Apple’s Macbook for instance. The Macbook is almost twice the price and offers less programs than many PC laptops but have overall better quality, performance, durability, and dependability. This doesn’t mean they are flawless. My Macbook froze during a gig, not sure why, but it was an easy fix. I went to my other music system, reloaded my macbook, and I was back in business. Anyway, I always have a few media players as a backup.

PC laptops are cheaper but are more difficult to fix when a problem occurs. My brother’s super-powered $500 Acer Laptop crashed before a gig, and then crashed again at some later point. Although it was much cheaper than Apple’s product, it gave him multiple issues. Eventually, he sold his Acer and bought a Macbook which has given him no issues at all. The same idea applies to dj equipment.

Buying cheap dj equipment may seem like a good idea to save some money up front, but may eventually cost more in the long run with repairs, replacements, and technical issues. The important point to remember is that even good dj equipment can have issues, just less issues. Dj controllers or media players bought for 80 bucks like the ION AUDIO are ok for regular consumers but not for a real DJ.  It is going to feel cheap, glitch often, and will not be very effective for learning how to dj well. Name brands like Denon, Pioneer, and Numark are going to cost more money but it’s worth the peace of mind knowing that issues are rare and you won’t be embarrassed when the music suddenly stops playing during a really good dance set.

When good dj equipment fails, it can be really frustrating. I have had very few glitches with our pro dj equipment but understanding that good DJ equipment, even great equipment, glitches too, I always have some type of backup plan. Recently, I had to Dj a big outdoor event and my Denon HD2500 wasn’t reading my hard drive which contained 30,000 songs and all my playlists for the party. I knew how to fix it, but a hard reboot would have taken too long. The previous night I loaded the party set lists onto my Macbook and was able to run the whole party off my laptop. It’s not as much fun as using me denon and doesn’t look cool, but it did the job.

Last week, I Dj’d a wedding with the Pioneer MEP7000. This is a pricey piece of dj equipment but in some of it’s “glitchy” moment, it takes 10-20 seconds to load a song. This is not good when your doing introductions for weddings! I had my laptop as a backup. We Dj’d a wedding a few months back and my Macbook using (Djay software) froze and I couldn’t read the playlists on my laptop. I had my Denon HD2500 to back me up there. Another experience we’ve had is The Numark IDJ2 freezing up during a performance. Even our Serato Scratch glitched once as it did not properly load before a gig. Yes, even good dj equipment goes bad.

Good DJ equipment may fail, but only temporariy. Cheap and poorly made Dj equipment never miraculously become good. Cheap dj equipment is going to remain poor most of the time. It is important to do research on products and look at consumer reviews. Many times, these reviews will tell you what specifically may go wrong with a piece of dj equipment and you’ll know the issue before it happens.

Most importantly, always have a backup plan. If your media player/controller fails have a backup plan.  Your backup plan can include an iPod, iPad, Laptop, and also be sure to back up a hard Drive. Now that you know how to prepare for gigs with good dj equipment, your next step is to load your digital music crates with great music for your parties.

DJ with the Jetsons?

Can you imagine walking in as a DJ to a wedding or dance party with and iPod and all your dj equipment on your back in a backpack. Hello George Jetson! Though technology is not quite there yet, it certainly seems to be moving in that direction with electronic music playing devices like the iPod. iPods (iPhone incuded) are small devices that can play music just as powerful as any expensive digital dj music system. The key to successfully using the iPod as a DJ'ing device is having some bare-naked basic knowledge and decent equipment to become a pro iPod DJ.

If you want to learn how to exclusively use your iPod to DJ parties, follow these next steps to raise yourself above the majority of people who are just hitting the play button and poorly playing their music through computer speakers:

You can use solely your iPod music player to play music but I would strongly suggest purchasing some type of iPod DJ application to effectively play your music. When you play your music through your iPod player, the songs do not cross-fade. You’ll find yourself with unwanted dead air which is usually awkward for you and the guests.

There are available iPod DJ applications that can help you sound more like a professional. There are two types that you should consider, one if you find an application that does both. The first type is an application that will cross-fade music for you to transition smoothly from one song to another. The second type of application/feature you’ll want to play around with is the beat-mixing feature. This feature allows you to synchronize beats of songs allowing smooth transitions keeping your dance floor moving and packed!

Many iPod DJ applications are very ineffective and are not even worth the 99 cents charged. You really have to read the reviews before purchasing an application for your iPod. Also make sure you are clear on how the music is loaded. You’ll want to be able to play your own music playlists/databases in the applications. Many of the applications only have their own samples or will only allow you to load songs from their databases.

Cross-fading DJ Application tool:

One decent application for cross-fading and seems to be a good tool for iPod DJs is called Cue Play DJ and can be found on iTunes. You can DJ anywhere with this application. Cue Play DJ is an advanced and fully-featured digital solution for the iPhone and iPod Touch. Regardless of where you are, you can bring with you a DJ booth where one track seamlessly blends into another as you control every aspect of you audio experience.

Cue Play DJ lets you experience real DJ’ing using an interface that id similar to stepping into a true DJ Booth. The fun begins when you are ready to move from practicing to performing. Cue Play DJ can wirelessly broadcast to your PC or Mac Allowing you to use your iPhone or iPod as a monitor. This feature gives you the ability to create dance club environment that you control from the palm of your hands.

Beat-Mixing a Scratching Application DJ Tool:

One popular but still glitchy application for beat-mixing and scratching is MixDeck Scratch DJ. Mixdeck Scratch DJ will allow you to become a real digital DJ almost immediately on you ipod or iPhone. It is the first iPhone application that simulates a real turntable. You can scratch the music on your iPhone or iPod like a real dj,. You have the ability to play your music faster, slower, and even play it backwards. It also comes with three built-in- DJ effects and the accelerator controlled cutoff/resonance effects.

I am not advocating these as the best applications to use. In fact many of even the best applications can get glitchy and I do not want to be held responsible for your success or failure using these applications. They are a lot of fun to use and can be very effective for someone who wants to DJ on an iPod, but you need to do your homework. Do Your research, make sure you update your iPod firmware, get the latest application updates, load your music, and practice using them often, before you go out and DJ your first party with them.

Next in Part 2, learn how to turn your iPod into a full digital dj music system by plugging into the right equipment.