A complete guide on everything you’ll need.
Whether you’re just getting started, have no clue about DJing, or simply want to make sure you have everything before your first performance, it’s important to know what equipment you should ideally have if you want to be a successful DJ.
In fact, many would argue that technique and “know-how” knowledge can only take you so far unless you have the right DJ equipment with you.
How to Choose Your DJ Equipment: Overview
If you aren’t sure what DJ equipment you need, well you’re in luck. In this overview guide, we’ll be doing a full breakdown of everything needed before you can be considered a practicing DJ.
Here, we’ll go over some of the more obvious things like speakers, controllers, and mixers.
However, we’ll also check out laptops, turntables, CDJs, XDJs, and many more items.
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DJ Equipment: The Basics
Below is a complete list of many different things you’ll need if you want to be a DJ. Keep in mind that, while everything on this list is required, it may only be required based on the type of input device you’re using.
For example, a set of turntables will need something very different compared to a DJ controller, which will have different requirements compared to a CDJ.
Media Device
First on the list are the different input media devices you can use as a DJ.
Your input device is the most important decision you’ll make as a DJ, as it directly determines the type of DJ you’ll be as well as the style of your performance.
You’ll have a choice of the following devices: turntables, CDJs/XDJs, and DJ Controllers.
- DJ Controllers: DJ controllers are the most modern method of DJ performance devices and are also the cheapest and easiest point of entry for beginners. These devices are entirely digital and primarily require a laptop to operate. These controller devices often include different features like beat pads or FX buttons, both of which streamline many of the different things you had to do manually with the turntable and CDJ.
- CDJs: A CDJ is one of the more common methods that a DJ can use to perform during modern times. It is often used in clubs and other party venues and acts as a bridge between the old-school turntable system and the more modern DJ controllers. Like the turntable, the CDJ has a platter that can be used to operate CDs, while it can also use either a laptop or a USB drive to play stored available music.
- XDJs: Regarded as a more evolved version of the CDJ, the XDJ allows you to perform with a laptop, USB drive, or USB pen. The big difference between it and a CDJ is that CDJs use CDs while XDJs operate solely on stored digital music.
- Turntables: Turntables are the original method of DJing from their early inception. In fact, for many turntables are the only “legit” way to DJ, with all digital methods being regarded as “inauthentic”. Regardless, on their own they are entirely analog, however, you can use digital music through the use of some DVS equipment and a laptop.
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DJ Mixers
Next on the list are the different types of Mixers available. Mixers can be purchased as either 2-Channel Mixers, 4-Channel Mixers, and DVS-enabled Mixers.
Mixers are meant to be purchased alongside a pair of turntables, CDJs, or XDJs. Each of the Mixer’s channels can be used to connect to a different input device.
As such, you could technically pair a turntable with a CDJ using a mixer (though this would likely be very difficult and offsetting).
In terms of pricing, 2-Channel mixers are fairly inexpensive whereas 4-Channel mixers are generally priced at $150 and have twice as many different available ports to use.
- Basic DJ Mixers: A basic DJ mixer normally is a 2-channel mixer and will include a crossfader, EQ filter knobs, a trim/gain control setting, and a master volume dial. Basic mixers are meant to do a standard job of connecting two input devices. They are most often included in most standard controllers though can be purchased separately for either turntables or CDJs.
- Advanced DJ Mixers: A more advanced version of the Basic Mixer, the Advanced DJ Mixer allows you to either incorporate FX into the master sound output or any of the different channels. connected. This, and many other features, help to give these different devices that extra bit of flair, making their performer that much more standout as a result.
- DVS-Enabled (Digital Vinyl System) Mixers: The DVS Mixer is a mixer that contains an audio interface that allows DJs to connect with their laptop so long as it has DJ software already installed. It also greatly reduces the amount of space required to perform, as you won’t need a separate audio interface to operate with.
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Laptop
While a laptop in and of itself doesn’t need much introduction, you must consider getting a dedicated laptop with fast speeds while also having high amounts of RAM and processor speed.
This is important, as a slower processing speed laptop is likely to delay the loading and use of DJ software, reducing your effectiveness as a DJ.
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DJ Software
Speaking of DJ software, you will need some type of DJ software installed on your laptop to operate a compatible piece of DJ equipment.
As an example, something like the Pioneer DJ DDJ-1000 uses the DJ software, Rekordbox. On the other hand, its sister alternative, the DDJ-1000SRT uses the DJ software, Serato DJ.
In either scenario, if you have the Serato DJ software or the Rekordbox software, you can only use it towards an input device that is compatible with it.
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Audio Interface
An audio interface is a type of DJ equipment that allows you to connect with your laptop from your mixer. This interface is essential in giving DJs control over the mixing process for digital music from a laptop.
As a result, this allows you to DJ with any of the aforementioned input devices, such as the DJ controller or turntable.
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Headphones
Your headphones, like your laptop, need no innate introduction. I will argue, however, that the headphones you get for DJing should be fairly decent in quality and be able to last for a good bit of time while performing.
They should also be very comfortable (as comfortable as possible) and should ideally avoid ear-chafing.
While you can start by getting standard headphones, you’ll eventually want to consider investing in DJ headphones, as these are specifically created to handle the more hectic and intense experiences a DJ has while performing.
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Monitor Speakers
In addition to quality headphones, another area of focus should be sound speakers. Monitor DJ speakers are incredibly important for your setup and will be the method by which you get your music played when performing.
While there is a variety of different speaker available, one of the most effective beginner speaker options are the pre-amp speakers.
These come with an amp already installed and can be connected to your mixer.
They take up very little space relative to other speakers while still offering an impressive amount of sound.
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Cables
Lastly, we have the different types of cables that you will need to know about when deciding on the type of DJ you plan to be and what type of device you expect to use.
An example of some of the more well-known cables include the following:
- USB Cable: The USB cable is meant for recording and connecting purposes and often is used to connect to either your laptop or other USB-related devices.
- Headphone Mini-Jack Adaptor: A cable that is aimed squarely at ensuring your headphones have a port that can easily be used. This port is solely for the headphones.
- RCA Phono Cables: The RCA Phono Cables are cables meant to connect with the audio interface
- RCA Phono Plug-to-Stereo Jack: A cable that is used to connect with the mixer as well as the speakers. It is this cable to ties your mixer to various other devices.
- Power Leads: A cable that is specifically meant to power your device.
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Different Setup Options
There are numerous DJ equipment setup options that you can create based on the type of DJ you want to be. Below, we’re going to go over several different options, ranging from purely vinyl to an entirely digital setup.
This will give you a clear understanding of what items need to be on your list before performing.
1. Vinyl Turntable Option
You’ll need the following:
- 2 Vinyl Turntables
- 2 Needles (Stylus & Cartridges)
- 2 Slipmats
- 2-Channel Or 4-Channel Mixer
- Headphones
- 2 Or More Pre-Amp Speakers
- RCA Cable
Meant as a more traditional “old school” setup, this is great for someone interested in a more tactile method of learning to DJ.
Unlike the other options, there is no digital assistance, meaning you’ll have to learn beatmatching entirely by ear and will have to perform almost all of the different features and techniques manually.
Ultimately, while this can be an expensive, hefty, and difficult method of DJing compared to some of the ones below, it is also one of the most immersive with the greatest level of control over what you’re doing.
2. Vinyl/DVS Hybrid Option
You’ll need the following:
- 2 Vinyl Turntables
- 2 Needles (Stylus & Cartridges)
- 2 Slipmats
- Audio Interface (DVS)
- DJ Software
- Laptop
- 2-Channel Or 4-Channel Mixer
- 2 Time-Code Vinyl Discs
- 2 Or More Pre-Amp Speakers
- Headphones
- RCA Cable
Meant a digital marriage between old-school DJing and the more current and accessible methods of DJing.
This setup utilizes DVS, a Digital Audio Interface, to make it easier to learn how to DJ using vinyl records. It is great for beatmatching, both by sound as well as through visual aid using digital software.
The DVS audio interface is an especially useful tool for times when the venue you’re performing at uses a turntable and mixer.
With it, you’ll simply need to plug the interface into the mixer you access any music on your laptop using your DJ software.
This is especially ideal for DJs that want to learn to use vinyl turntables while transitioning from controllers and CDJs.
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3. CDJ/XDJ Option
You’ll need the following:
- 2 CDJ/XDJ Turntables
- DJ Mixer
- Headphones
- Laptop
- USB Stick
- Digital Music (WAV, MP3, AIFF)
- Monitor Speakers
CDJs are potentially one of the more ideal options due to their limited freedom away from a laptop while still offering incredible sound and great functionality. CDJs are also the device most seen in clubs and areas of high performance.
As a result, owning a CDJ is not only more convenient than many other options, but it’s also a great way to get you primed for more professional performances.
- rekordbox included
- Excellent jog wheel feel
- Works as MIDI controller
- USB and CD options
Read this next: The Pioneer CDJ-350: The Most Natural Progression For Beginners
4. Digital DJ Controller Option
You’ll need the following:
- DJ Controller
- Laptop
- Headphones
- DJ Software
- Digital Music
- Monitor Speakers
One thing to note is that, depending on the DJ controller you get, you may or may not have a certain type of DJ software already included.
Generally, the higher quality of the controller, the higher chance they’ll already have DJ software (Serato, Traktor, Rekordbox, Virtual DJ, Engine Prime, etc.) installed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Media Player Should I Get?
This is largely personal and based on every person’s situation. It’s important to determine what you’re looking to spend as well as what your ultimate goals are as a DJ.
For more budget-oriented individuals, or otherwise aren’t sure of DJing outside of a small-time hobby, it makes sense for you to start with something like a DJ controller.
These can be incredibly inexpensive while also offering a fairly easy entry point for most people interested in starting. You can often be expected to pay as little as $50-100 for a controller, though quality starter controllers generally sit around the $200 mark.
On the other hand, if you have a bit more disposable income, while you may also want to check out a DJ controller, you’re likely going to be interested in checking out something around the $500-$1,500 area.
These controllers will have more features, more effects, and generally be of a higher quality build. You may also want to consider something like the CDJ, which is very popular in club venues and offers all of the same benefits as a controller while also improving the amount of control you have over your performance.
For those interested in making being a DJ their career, they should reliably start at the CDJ level. These devices are worth the investment and will put you ahead of the game compared to those using DJ controllers, even if they are of higher quality.
Ultimately, knowing what you want as a DJ is the most important thing to focus on.
Once you understand your budget and your overall plans as DJ, it will just be a matter of seeing which brand offers the best of what you’re looking for.
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How Much Does DJ Equipment Cost?
When looking at what it can cost to become a DJ, a basic starting set can cost anywhere from $50 to $250 per item.
Considering the different items listed (DJ controller, headphones, etc.) you can reasonably expect to spend between $200 on the low end and around $1,000 on the higher end.
When it comes to more advanced DJ packages and higher-quality equipment, you can expect to spend anywhere from $2,000 to $3,000 at the minimum and many times over that later.
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How To Choose Your DJ Equipment? The Verdict
As you can see, there is a lot that goes into knowing what goes into the equipment for being a DJ.
By understanding what it takes and how much you should be willing to spend, you can be more prepared and have more knowledge when deciding on the type of device you want, the type of good speakers, and ultimately the type of DJ you hope to be.
