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Buying DJ equipment for the first time

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alex=
Posts: 1738 - Karma: 2,835
I got a job as a assistant/roadie for a small-time DJ who was big in the club and rave scene in Cincinnati, but has settled down now and does weddings/dances, etc. He's teaching me to DJ, emcee, mix, etc. My goal is to learn to DJ well enough over the next few years to do clubs and eventually transition into live music.

I'm completely new to the industry and I need to start buying my own equipment so I can make my own money and start doing my own gigs. I don't really know where to start, so I need the DJ community on NS to help me out with what to buy.

I'm laying off on speakers, light fixtures, etc. for now because I can use his, as of now I need a library (the DJ I helped last night recommended franchiserecordpool.com), a laptop (I have a new one, I should be fine I hope), and a... controller? Not really sure what it's called, it has the cue/load buttons, crossfader, master volumes, the two spintables, etc.. what else would I need to get started? I know I am a long ways off of playing my own gigs but I'm trying to get some equipment.

help me out Ns +K!
Oct 20 2013 3:50PM
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will_powder
Posts: 3194 - Karma: 5,445
So I'm probably not the right person to say anything, but whatever.

My good buddy has a Traktor S4 controller. He's gone from playing for himself in his basement to doing small shows and paid parties. It's got everything you need to mix whatever, and don't quote me but I think it's modular and native instruments makes more add ons and shizz. It's an awesome machine.

Click for larger image

It's also reasonably inexpensive at $800ish
Oct 21 2013 1:47AM
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Kitzrow
Posts: 574 - Karma: 94
hipster vinyl fetish = Technics
anything else = CDJs

more expensive than some shitty controller, but you'll thank yourself in the long run. With CDJs, you only need USBs..no need for computers, fancy software, or screen gazing.

/thread.
Oct 21 2013 3:40PM
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Dan.
Posts: 7201 - Karma: 1,126
if someone is teaching you, ask them? or use their equipment until you need your own?
figure out what you want to do before buying shit that won't suit your needs.
Oct 21 2013 9:20PM
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.mnr.
Posts: 324 - Karma: 772
traktor
Oct 22 2013 5:48PM
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