By Are you ready to unleash your inner DJ and rock the party scene? Or maybe just want to impress your friends with some sick beats at your next backyard barbecue? Well, buckle up, my music-loving friend, because we’re about to show you the ultimate starter kit for budding DJs! With so many options out there, it’s easy to get lost in the world of DJ equipment, but do not have any worries anymore! I’ve done my homework for you and put together the top 10 must-have DJ equipment starter kits that will make you the life of the party, even if you’re still mastering the art of beatmatching. So, let’s get this party started!
DJ Controller Starter Kits – The Heart of Your DJ Setup
What else could be the building stone of dj equipment starter kits than a DJ controller? The DJ controller is like the heart of your DJ setup. Pumping out beats, bringing the right energy, and keeping the party alive. It’s the connection between your playlist and the people on the dance floor. Trust me, you want it to be in tip-top shape. When searching for the perfect controller to start with, look for one with large jog wheels, responsive pads, and a built-in mixer – because who has time for clunky equipment when the crowd is waiting to dance?
My first choice when I started DJing was the Pioneer DDJ-SB3 as a DJ controller starter kit. Believe it or not but I am still using it now. It is just enough for me to prepare the music, but there are already other better ones for a similar price. Look for the new version of the Pioneer DJ DDJ-400. Other worth mentioning are Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX6, Numark Mixstream Pro ( you don’t need a computer for this one), or Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3. If you are focusing on scratch, then I would recommend the Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1. If you want some small controller for “to go” or camping trips or small unexpected parties, then Numark DJ2GO2 or the Pioneer Dj DDJ-200.
DJ Headphones – Hear Your Music Clearly
If you’re planning to become a DJ, you need to hear the music clearly. You have to hear to create that perfect beat that gets people moving. But, how can you hear the sick beats in your head when your neighbor is mowing their lawn? Or the kids next door are screaming, and the garbage truck is rumbling by? The answer is simple – get yourself some DJ headphones! These headphones are specially designed to block out all of that external noise and allow you to focus on your music. Plus, they offer exceptional sound quality that makes you feel like you’re right there in the studio with your favorite artists.
Our top pick is the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, which won’t break the bank and will make you feel like a pro! And I just recently got them from my amazing wife and family, and they are amazing. Actually, I am using them right now, to listen to music for a new set for an upcoming party. Look for headphones with a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz for the most accurate sound reproduction. If you want to invest more, you can check out a higher version of Audio-Technica ATH-M70x, which is coming also with a really cool case. And if you are heading for a cheaper one, then OneOdion Studio Pro 10 DJ for only a few bucks. Or another great to mention the Pioneer DJ HDJ-CUE1BT.
DJ Speakers – Let the Bass Kick
Yo DJ, ready to let the bass drop and get the party started? You gotta have some dope speakers for that! Look for speakers with a frequency response that can handle the lowest of lows and the highest of highs. Our top pick is the JBL Professional EON610 Portable 10-Inch 2-Way Multipurpose Self-Powered PA Speaker System. It’s portable, powerful, and perfect for getting your crowd hyped up and ready to move.
No DJ setup is complete without a set of speakers to get the party started. Look for speakers with a frequency response of at least 40Hz to 20kHz for optimal bass and treble response. You can check out ADAM Audio TV5, Pioneer DJ DM-50D, or KRK Rokit 5 G4.
Laptop Stand – Keep Your Setup Neat and Tidy
Listen up, aspiring DJs! If you’re just starting out, chances are you’ll be using a laptop as part of your setup. And let’s be honest, no one wants to be hunched over a low desk trying to mix tracks like a troll under a bridge. That’s why a laptop stand is your new best friend! It’ll lift your laptop to a comfortable height, but not too much so you don’t have pain in your neck from looking up (was it a good joke? ehm.. ok, let’s continue.. ), and give you a better view of your controls.
But if you’re ballin’ with a bigger budget, why not skip the laptop altogether and go for a stand-alone DJ setup? That’s right, no need for a clunky computer to take up precious space in your DJ booth. And if you go that route, you can skip the laptop stand altogether and put that cash towards some sick new speakers instead.
Whoa, whoa, whoa! Hold up there, beginner DJ. Don’t ditch the laptop just yet! If you want to start producing music and adding some live flair to your sets, a laptop could be your new best friend. Of course, that means you might need to build your setup a little differently. Consider starting with a controller and a laptop as a good starting point for your musical journey.
Our top pick is the Pyle Portable Folding Laptop Stand, which is lightweight, easy to set up, and compatible with most laptops. The same brand, but more fun is with a stand specifically for DJs, Pyle Portable Folding Laptop & DJ Mixer Stand. Or you can also check out Odyssey LSTAND360 or basic budget-friendly ON-Stage LPT5000.
DJ Software – The Magic Behind Your Mixing
DJ software is the key to unlocking your mystical creative potential as a DJ. It’s like having a magic wand that lets you mix and manipulate tracks in ways that would be impossible with traditional hardware. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to decide which one to choose. Serato DJ Pro is known for its user-friendly interface, while Traktor is known for its versatility and advanced features.
However, if you’re serious about DJing and want to join the pros, Rekordbox is the way to go. Not only does it offer powerful music management and performance tools, but it’s also the top choice of many professionals. Plus, if your music is ready in Rekordbox, you can easily export it to your USB flash drive and be ready to rock on CDJs (maybe not Rock, but Techno), the most common controllers in many clubs. It’s like having a secret weapon in your DJ arsenal and being ready for the coming battle.
USB Flash Drive – Portable and Ready for Action
An essential tool for any DJ on the go is a USB flash drive filled with your music library. With your music on a portable drive, you’re always ready for action, whether you’re playing a house party or a professional gig. It’s important to keep your USB flash drive organized and updated to quickly find the tracks you need. Make sure to have a backup copy of your music library in case of any unexpected issues. And if you’re using CDJs or other media players, having your music library exported to a USB flash drive in Rekordbox format will make your life easier when it comes to preparing your tracks for a set.
Personal Touch – Create Your Own DJ Style
Adding a personal touch to your DJ setup is a great way to showcase your unique style and make your performance stand out. Consider adding something that reflects your personality, such as an incense burner, a small statue, or a signature hat. For example, I always wear a scarf when I DJ as it is my personal style.
Having a unique element in your setup can also help you connect with your audience and create a memorable experience. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and find something that speaks to you and your music. Remember, your personal touch can be just as important as any piece of equipment in creating a successful and fulfilling DJ career.
Cables and adapters
Let’s talk about the unsung heroes of the DJ world: cables and adapters. Without them, you’d be lost in a sea of tangled wires and incompatible connections. These are things that other people don’t see, but as a DJ you should be able to connect everything and know how it works, and cables and adapters are the start. When it comes to cables and adapters, the type you need will depend on the controller you use and the input of your speakers.
Bring XLR or bring RCA that is the question
Make sure to do your research and check which cables and adapters are compatible with your equipment. Because there could be different inputs and outputs, for example, input XLR to the speaker and output XLR from the controller, you have to be sure you have the right cable or adapter. Some popular options include RCA, XLR, and TRS cables, which can be used for connecting your controller to your speakers or mixer. So, pack your bag and make sure you have all the cables and adapters you need to avoid any embarrassing technical difficulties during your next gig and you don’t have to use the sentence “Sorry, my laptop is dead and I forgot my charging adapter, the party is over.”
It’s always a good idea to have some extra cables and adapters on hand. There may come a time when you need to play a gig somewhere else and encounter different setups. That’s when having a variety of cables and adapters that are compatible with your computer and different reductions can be a lifesaver. So don’t be caught without the right gear – stock up on cables and adapters and you’ll be ready for anything. Still, when you start getting to know more about the gear you will realize that you don’t need that much because most typically the speaker will have XLR or 1/4 input and smaller setups RCA. And of course, you know your controller connection.
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DJ Bags and Cases – Protect Your Equipment on the Go
As a DJ, you’re constantly on the go, bringing the party to people everywhere. But all that moving around can be tough on your gear. That’s where DJ bags and cases come in. They’re the perfect way to keep your equipment safe and sound while you’re on the move. You can check out the UDG Ultimate Flight Case for Pioneer DDJ-SB3/SB2/T1/DDJ-RR Controllers, but it is hard to recommend when I don’t know what gear you are spinning on.
DJ Lighting – Set the Mood with Your Music
DJ lighting is like the cherry on top of a sundae. It’s not necessary, but damn, it looks good. Having lighting adds to the overall vibe of your performance and can make your set more memorable. Plus, if you’re live streaming on Twitch, lighting can help take your production to the next level. So go ahead, add some lights to your setup, and let’s get lit!
Congratulations, my friend, you are now ready to rock the party scene with your new DJ starter kit! With the right DJ controller, headphones, speakers, laptop stand, USB stick, and software, you are on your way to becoming the ultimate party starter. But don’t forget to practice so you won’t be a mood killer. And remember, the key to being a great DJ is not just having the right equipment but also having fun and sharing that energy with the crowd. So, let loose, enjoy the music, and let the beats flow! With your new gear and some creativity, you’ll be sure to have the dance floor packed and the party going all night long. So, get out there and show the world what you’ve got! Let’s spin..
About the author:
I am a never-ending fighter for the perfect ART, enjoying the process of unperfectness. I am many things and nothing, but my main focus is acting. I've studied at the Vancouver Academy of Dramatic Arts. I've been an actor in Theater Around The Corner, Moravian Theater Olomouc, Theater DiGoknu, or Mlada Scena II. And I am working hard on my craft.