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Finding the Best DJ Equipment -A Look at the DDJ-SZ

If you’re getting ready to dive into the world of DJ’ing then you’re probably here to get an idea as to how you should proceed and hey, we really can’t blame you! There are a lot of things to learn and it can be really confusing at times, we’re not going to lie. The problem that you’re going to repeatedly run into is the fact that there are many different pieces of equipment out there, some of which you need, and some that you could ignore until you’re a bit more advanced. We’re going to talk about DJ mixers today, particularly the Pioneer DDJ-SZ.

DJ equipment packagesBefore we really get into that however, what do they do exactly? The primary thing you need to know about this piece of equipment is that it is used commonly by professional DJ’s to facilitate smooth transitions between sound recordings. Remember, there are DJ equipment packages at both the cheap and the expensive end of the spectrum, and it will be up to you to make sure that you have what you need to really get started. There are a number of different sources which can include:

  • Record Turntables
  • Compact Cassettes
  • CD-J’s
  • Software (Laptop)

There are many different mixers on the market today, all of which are pretty amazing, and there is definitely an argument over whether or not to use digital software rather than physical boards in your own act. In our opinion while software is nice, there is nothing quite like the feel of a board under your fingertips. We think it’ll make you feel more like a real DJ, but that is just our opinion, of course. Today we’re going to get you some much needed information on the DDJ-SZ  so you can get your act on the road, or at least into the studio.

A look at the Pioneer DDJ-SZ

Often found in a good DJ equipment package, the DDJ-SZ embodies everything you could possibly want in a controller. While it does command a fairly high pricetag, there are multiple benefits to using this one, as you will quickly discover. It is of the highest quality and it is primed to make your performance the best ever. First of all it’s a 4-channel controller designed specifically for Serato DJ Software, meaning it’s practically ready to go right out of the box, or the crate. Atop the device you’re going to find two CDJ-Style JOG wheels that are highly responsible and provide the best playability along with displaying the status and position of each track you play.

The system is incredibly responsive to remix functions and utilizes 16 multi-color LED performance pads all designed to respond perfectly to your input. The system brings to the table two USB ports and a high quality effects section. Along with an oscillator and Magvel Crossfader, you’re sure to find everything you need to make your show a smash hit.

DJ equipmentRecapping those Features:

  • 4 Channel Mixer
  • Two USB Sound Cards
  • Integration with Serato DJ Software
  • DVS Control
  • MAGVEL Cross Fader
  • Professional Sound
  • Plug and Play Knobs
  • Dynamic Performance
  • And much more…

These are all features that you would definitely expect to find on a high end professional mixing board and they will bring your performance to the next level. The most important thing here is the level of integration with standard software and the highly comfortable controls. Overall, this is the controller that you’re looking for and it’s what will carry you through many, many years of your DJ experience. You might be new to the scene, or you might be a seasoned veteran. Either way, the DDJ-SZ is definitely what you want at your side.

Beyond the Controller

There are plenty of other devices and pieces of equipment that you are absolutely going to need, so start looking at the merchandise on our website today. One thing that we absolutely understand is the need for quality equipment whether you’re on a tight budget or looking to exhaust a small fortune. There are obviously benefits to the latter but we like to make sure that you’re comfortable and functional at either end of the spectrum.

 

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Get the Whole DJ Equipment Package and Get Started

DJ equipmentSo you’re on the warpath and looking for the equipment you need to really start your DJ career. Okay, no one can blame you, being a DJ is a pretty exciting prospect. Before you can really get into it however you’re really going to need to make sure you have the right DJ equipment and there are a few ways you can go about it. There’s a lingering question in any aspiring DJ’s mind: How much is it going to cost to get the ball rolling? Let’s be honest, that question is asked by anyone stating any sort of hobby and we’re going to give you the same answer that you would receive from any of them: “Well how much were you looking to spend?”.

That sounds a little ambiguous we have to admit, but it is what it is, as they say. What we’re trying to point out, is that there are expensive pieces of equipment, there are inexpensive pieces of equipment, and there are many very expensive pieces of equipment. It honestly all depends on what you’re looking for and how you want to proceed with your new DJ career. It all starts with picking out the right pieces and we’re going to talk about some of the most essential items.

DJ Equipment Essentials – Studio Monitors

As you jump into the deep end of DJ’ing this is a term that you’re going to hear more and more, but amusingly enough, you will probably never have it explained to you. What is a studio monitor exactly? What kind of a difference does it make? First of all, when you listen to an audio stream in the studio there is a good chance you’re hearing a high end stream on a set of expensive headphones or speakers. While this might sound great, it’s just not what your end user is going to hear. Most people don’t go for expensive speakers and with that in mind, your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to adapt the sound for the home audio system. Studio monitors like the Yamaha HS8 will allow you to hear what the recording will sound like on the average home system, and it will give you some idea of what you will be delivering.

Cables

There are lots of great pieces of equipment you can consider but none of it will be worth anything if you don’t have a good set of cables for each device. When you are choosing equipment it will be within your best interest to make sure that you are grabbing cables that have a decent amount of length, and those that are properly insulated as to prevent interference. Also remember that higher quality cables, like those from Pig Hog are going to carry the sound better – this is one area that you don’t want to skimp on.

Audio Interfaces

equipment for home recordingAn audio interface is a piece of DJ equipment that is tasked with upscaling audio. If you are using a device that has a poor sound card then an audio interface will make it worlds better. The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Gen 2 or the Audient ID14 are just two great examples of audio interfaces.

Microphones

Finally we come to microphones and let’s be honest, what setup could ever possibly be complete without a good set of microphones. There are multiple types but we strongly recommend the Shure KSM32 for good measure.

As you can clearly see, picking out the best set of equipment for home recording isn’t exactly straightforward but it doesn’t have to be incredibly difficult either. Now would be a great time to start looking into our equipment and determining which direction you really want to take it. You have plenty of options and plenty of opportunity to build the perfect recording studio whether you’re a raw beginner or a seasoned expert.

 

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Three Beginner Tips for Setting up your Recording Equipment

So you’re getting ready to build your very first home recording studio and you’re not entirely sure where you should start then you’re in luck! We’re going to list off all of the items you need to get your new setup deployed. The first thing you need to know, is that contrary to popular belief, it does not take months to get your setup ready. IN fact, getting started only requires you to get the essential recording equipment.  Sure there are a ton of different devices out there and you’re probably wondering how you’re going to afford it all, but we’ve taken the liberty of collecting a few of the most important items for you. Let’s get down to basics.
Basic Recording Equipment

Keep it Simple with the Most Basic Recording Equipment

The first thing we’d like to say is that you have to keep it simple. You might want all of the latest and greatest equipment but if you are a raw beginner then quite honestly, it’s just going to get in the way – don’t let that happen. Too much too soon is the pitfall that nearly every hobbyist is going to fall into, and you might rather quickly find yourself to be a bit overwhelmed – don’t let that happen. You’re about to invest a lot of money into your new hobby – don’t let it go to waste!

Before you take that advice to heart however, it is important for you to ask this very important question: how cheap is too cheap? When should you splurge and when should you hold back? There is a lot of cheap equipment out there, and sure, you could build a studio for $400 if you really wanted to but we’re going to say right now that the audio quality isn’t going to be something you’re proud of. That being said, you should at least consider buying mid-range equipment. Also note that you should keep all of your equipment at roughly the same quality. Sure you could try to cut yourself a break on a microphone or a mixer, but as they say, the weakest link in the chain is the one that gives out. In other words you’re going to replace that lower end piece of equipment anyway so why not get it right the first time and avoid wasting money?

Getting Started with the Best Studio Recording Equipment for Beginners

Studio Recording Equipment for BeginnersThere are a few basics that you’re going to want, and we’re going to cover them as quickly as possible. After all, you want to spend more time setting up and less time reading, right? Let’s get you on your way!

Computer – There is a bit of controversy over which type of computer you should be seeking out or buying when it comes to your DJ setup. Some will recommend a laptop which is outstanding if you’re constantly on the go, but there are some downsides to this choice. First of all, you’re going to find, rather quickly, that with a laptop you have limited hardware and an inability to upgrade.

Sound cards in laptop computers are not ‘great’, so to speak, though there is hardware you can use to fix that. If you want to go all out and don’t foresee yourself moving around regularly then you might want to look into a desktop so that you can constantly upgrade and use the latest software.

Studio Monitors – Speakers are one thing, but studio monitors definitely have their benefits. These are typically used to simulate what the audio would sound like on a consumer grade system. Not everyone has the best speakers or the resources to get them, so you must make sure you’re catering to the lowest common denominator. One of the most common studio monitors happens to be the Yamaha HS8, though as always, make sure you’re using the right speaker stand, like the Accenta SST-5.

Headphones – You need to hear what you’re recording, and you need to do so without any outside interference. High quality headphones can deliver audio on both the high end and the low end, making them a valuable commodity in this industry.

Microphone – Yep, you guessed it, you’re going to need a microphone, and you’ll need to make sure that you choose the right one. Fortunately most kits come with one, though you might want to look into something a bit higher quality later on.

Audio Interface – Finally, you need to make sure that you have a good audio interface like the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Gen2 or Audient ID14. This is the best way to connect your computer with all the gear you’ve collected and the only way to make the whole thing work.

Cables – Getting the right quality cables, like Pig Hog is essential as it will allow you to transmit your audio with minimal interference, ultimately giving you a higher quality sound.

Getting set up with your music recording equipment doesn’t have to be hard, just follow the guidelines we’ve listed above and get ready to rock, speak, or sing, whichever you prefer most.