Laptops dominate DJ booths around the world. Many DJs perform without turntables and often without CD decks. The computer adds a new dimension to the art form, turning DJs into true musical performers. Equal parts science and art, DJing using a laptop is quite simple. These steps can put you on the right track so you can begin honing your skills to become the next superstar DJ.
Instructions
5 Steps to becoming a computer DJ
1. Select your DJ software. This tool allows you to mix two or more songs together, add effects and create musical magic. Choose a software package that matches the style of music you will perform and the role you want the software to play in your performance. DJ software can create loops of music on the fly, simulate "scratching," match the beats of the two songs together automatically and add effects such as an echo or reverb.
2. Invest in an external sound card. Most laptops do not have an internal sound card up to the task of playing music in a "club" environment. External sound cards generally connect to your laptop using a USB or firewire connection and include outputs that allow you to connect to a DJ mixer or other sound system.
3. If you perform in front of an audience, you will need to invest in a DJ controller. This device communicates with your DJ software and controls some of the virtual "buttons" in the program. For example, a basic controller might include buttons to adjust the treble, midrange and bass of one song, and to fade the volume of the music from one track to the other. Controlling the software in this manner provides you with greater flexibility and a more dynamic performance.
4. Quality check your music. What sounds good on an MP3 player may not sound good on a powerful sound system. As a rule of thumb, never perform MP3s with a bitrate of less than 192.
5. Practice. While good DJs make it look effortless, it is hard work. Practice mixing songs together, or "beat matching," so the music becomes one seamless set. Experiment with the effects and understand how they work. Used properly, effects add a new dimension to your set.
