Scratching the surface: DJ'ing with your Mac

Any controllers that have DD platters, or is it all non-powered jog wheels? Looking for something a little more compact than 1200s, but with the same tactile feel. On another note, I'm envious and jealous of DJs that can carry 10k tracks with them... 1/2 lb a song (or 1 lb for doubles) was no fun for travel/setup/breakdown.

PC VS MAC. That's a crock of ca ca. I've seen Macs crash many times. I think you guys are more gear junkies than DJs. Why won't you guys make it simple: post your music or video on youtube.

You guys have nothing over this guy. This guy hands down is the only DJ I know that utilizes all his gears. Put this man behind any turntable or cd, mixer, and serato and he will get the job done regardless. Put him behind your gear and he will make you look bad. I should know it happened to me. This guy is so keen with what he does, he doesn't waste time giving his opinion like you wack DJs.

www.prestoone.com.

Just watch this guy rock on the vci-300. This guys does it all. I've seen this guy destroy all types of so called DJs.

@ contractcooker:

How can you say M-Audio's "TORQ" is not an option. You must be smoking. It's probably the closer to Traktor then Serato. Now granted, the earlier versions of TORQ were a little shaky but with the latest version it's solid and chock full of goodness. I'm not claiming it's the best, I don't think anyone can make that claim for any of the apps out there but it's as solid as it comes. I've been using it for close to two years and it's solid and a whole lot of fun.

LOL @ "also compatible with Windows-based machines"

it started out as a Windows based program, and most Dj's I know are [at most] evenly split between MAC and PC

Serato is definitely the way to go if you want to use just 2 decks and control records (using vinyl to control your mp3s).

If you are looking to actually use your computer to expand your horizons, and do more than a normal dj can do, then use Traktor Pro.

I run Traktor Pro with 4 virtual decks routed to my 4-channel mixer (which is also a Traktor interface). This way, I am always playing something on at least 3 decks, looping something, using efx, and literally performing and creating new pieces that didn't exist before.

Now, if you really want to learn how to DJ, don't use a computer, use records, and then once you know what you are doing, then use the computer. There is a lot more to djing than just playing 2 records.

I actually just picked up Djay last week, love it so far and I plan on picking up the companion Hardware spin device soon. =)

Ive been into electronic music since I was 11, I got my first pair of decks when I was 16, and have been going to proper, underground clubs since I was 18.

If you are really serious about DJing, then I would say these days it doesnt matter so much what your set up is, as long as you have the right set up for what you are trying to do. But if you are serious, start from the beginning, learn how to DJ without help: Work out what beatmatching is all about, what phrasing means, and how to bend sound using a simple 3 band EQ.

Although i would like to say 'get some technics for this' I understand that this is pretty inhibitive for someone starting out now (It was back then at over £400 each) when the distribution method is mosty digital for new music.

However, there truely is nothing like the phisicality of vinyl: Its all about the size of the platter and the movement you go through when moving around your set up. You are more involved.

If you can, Buy some CD Turntables, try and avoid low end efforts and go for some Pioneer or Denon decks: On the Pioneer side a pair of CDJ 400s will do you nicely, but go for the 200s if you cannot afford them.

When it comes to software: choose carefully Its amazing that you can use your macbook for mixing tunes, there are some good packages out there and if you are just in it for a bit of fun, then maybe you are ok with a bit of software.

But if you are serious and are really passionate about DJing, Music, etc, then take it from me, you need hardware, decent hardware control of your setup. There is nothing less intuitive than using a mouse and keyboard to try and mix or make music, and as already pointed out, your set up will make you feel detached and you will feel the music less, when DJing isjust like playing music: you need to be right in there feeling what you are doing.

One last thing: If you are serious about playng out, or you already do gigs in a venue, take it from me: There is nothing worse for a punter than for them to look up from the dancefloor and to see you hunched behind a laptop staring at the screen all night. get yourself some hardware, Learn how to mix with physical media (CDJs) and spread your gear out in the DJ box so you move about and show some energy.

One example of something you might not have considered is a Novation Launchpad which comes with a special edition of the Unbelieveable Ableton Live software. Check You tube out to see what can be done with this excellent, well priced controller.


Lozz.

Actually I prefer Traktor Scratch Pro much better.
Much more versatile IMO:
4 decks, effects, better audio interface just to mention a few pros...

I will get a lot of crap for this post but if you are looking for an easy way to DJ a party for your friends or just start out in the making people dance area instead of the MixMasterMike area I have a few options for you.

Disclaimer: I do have a full vinyl set up at home that I really enjoy. I DJ some weddings here and there and find that vinyl does not usually have a place at most wedding receptions. A good buddy of mine has a Serato setup and I find it holds him back in making the party what it should be (mostly due to lack of experience).

The first option is an older(2007) freeware program called DrDJ. It is a very simple program that works with your iTunes playlist and gives you a very simple crossfade option that is very straight forward.

The second option is a iTunes plugin called AccuBeatMix, it costs about $20 and is very simple but amazingly functional. It gives you the ability to skip through songs and transition between songs seamlessly. The demo shows it all http://www.wildbits.com/accubeatmix/

Hope that helps the casual DJs out there.

Turntables aren't a necessity. Those on a budget should really consider Ableton Live and a usb controller (like M-Audio's X-Session Pro). No one gives a crap about how you're making the music as long as it sounds good and keeps them dancing. Just ask Daft Punk.