The saying, "You get what you pay for" has never been so valid than in the area of sound equipment. DJs have spent countless hours and dollars trying to take shortcuts with tools that don't get the job done. With some research and advice from experts, up and coming DJs can learn more about the equipment basics.
Identification
There are some basic tools that are needed to become a DJ. Turntables or decks are the first things. Mixers are required to channel the sound of the turntables. An amplifier is needed to magnify the sound of the amplifier. Speakers or a stereo system is needed to make sure that everyone can hear the DJ's production. Slip mats are also required for a DJ who scratches. This will allow the DJ to have better control of the turntable.
Features
Turntables can run the gamut when it comes to price. Although belt driven turntables are cheaper direct driven turntables are best for all around use. Some of the best brands of turntables are Soundlab, Gemini, Numark, Kam and Citronic. Technic is the premier brand of turntable, but it's best to experiment and determine which one is best. Make sure that turntables have the features that allow the changing of the pulse so that you can control the speed of the record. Mixers need headphone output to hear a mix before delivering it to an audience.
Benefits
Better equipment will make techniques easier to learn. If the turntables don't have pulse control, it will be impossible to mix records that don't have the same beat. Slip mats maintain the life of the turntable. Without mixers, a DJ would not be able to merge a song and keep people on the dance floor for significant periods of time.
Warning
Using belt drive turntables are attractive because they are the low cost option and allow the DJ to get started faster in many cases. Young DJs will become frustrated with belt driven turntables and may even quit without understanding the real issue. Belt driven turntables lack the control that DJs need to stop, start and mix a record manually.
Expert Insight
One of the most comprehensive sites on DJ equipment and styles is DJ Vibe. It offers interviews with DJs from around the world. There are also discussion boards where new DJs can ask questions about equipment experiences. This is a one-stop shop for objective information on the DJ world.