Have you dreamed of becoming a DJ and animating the crowd for a long time? It's time to get started! But before you perform behind the decks, you need to equip yourself properly. What are the essentials to have when starting out as a DJ? Overview of key equipment.

Vinyl turntables

Let's start with the essentials: turntables. Real DJs mix with vinyl, so it's imperative to have at least two decks to play songs together.

To start, there is no need to invest a fortune in Technics SL 1200 MK2. Instead, turn to more affordable models like the Pioneer PLX-500, which offer excellent quality for their price. Reliable and simple to use, they will allow you to train in the best conditions.

Also look for the used one, where you can find Technics MK5s or Pioneer PLX-1000s at a lower cost. The main thing: that your turntables have an adjustable speed reading and a solid construction. Avoid entry-level turntables with fragile plastic and inaccurate motorization.

The DJ mixer

The mixer (or DJ mixer) is the heart of your installation. It is it that will allow you to mix the tracks together, to equalize the frequencies, to add effects, etc.

For starters, a 2 channel/2 channel mixer is more than enough. It will allow you to connect your two turntables and to easily alternate between them. Compact models like the Pioneer DJM-250MK2 or the Allen & Heath Xone 23C will do just fine.

Make sure your mixer has at least one 3-band EQ (bass, midrange, treble), independent volume faders, and ideally also an effects section such as filter, flanger, or echo. The more advanced your mixer is, the more creative possibilities you will have when mixing!

The monitoring headphones

We can't say it enough: headphones are mandatory for any self-respecting DJ. Thanks to it, you can listen to the songs and prepare yourself before sending them into the sound system.

Choose an over-ear design that completely encompasses your ears. It must be comfortable (for long sessions), isolating, and offer a faithful reproduction of the sound. Sure values: the Sennheiser HD-25, the Sony MDR-7506 or the AKG K240 MK2.

The cables

Too often, cables are overlooked by beginners, even though they are crucial! To connect your mixer and your turntables, get:

• RCA cables: for analog audio signal transmission
• 6.35 mm jack cables: to connect your turntables and headphones
• XLR cables: for symmetric connections

Always choose quality over quantity. A few high-end cables will be better than a multitude of entry-level cables.

DJ software

Finally, the Rekordbox DJ software is a valuable ally for preparing your sets. Free, it will allow you to organize your music library, analyze your songs (BPM, tone, energy...) and prepare your playlists. A considerable time saver!

With this basic equipment, you'll have everything you need to mix like a pro. Of course, you can complete your installation later, with a DJ controller, a sampler, monitoring speakers... But start by mastering these fundamental equipment well!

Tips for a good start

A few more tips to get started as a DJ:

• First practice behind closed doors before performing in public. Assimilate the basics well before mixing in front of a demanding dancefloor!
• Familiarize yourself with all the buttons and functionalities of your equipment. Read the user manuals and tutorials to know your hardware like the back of your hand.
• Create your own playlists, don't just use ready-made playlists. Learn how to search and select your songs to refine your style.
• Record your mixes and listen to them again critically. It's the best way to make rapid progress.
• Have fun! Technique will come with experience, the main thing is to have fun behind the turntables.

By following these few principles, your DJ adventure will start off on the right foot. So let's get started?

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