CategoriesDJ Mixers by

Live Music – The Time to Break out the DJ Mixer

DJ MixerLive music is always changing no matter what the venue and no matter how you prepare. There will always be nuances that you have to compensate for and the best way to do so is with a DJ mixer. So now your question, obviously, is what is a DJ mixer and how exactly does it work? DJ mixing is the process of blending sound sources together at a live event; a task normally performed by an audio engineer via a high end mixing console. There are a few different sounds that need to be mixed with a DJ mixer board which include:

  • Instruments
  • Voices
  • Pre-Recorded Material

These sources are equalized with the bass and treble response adjusted and then amplified using the speaker system of your choice. Mechanically this is all very simple, but the execution requires someone of experience and knowledge.

DJ Mixers for the Experienced Individual

If you are working on a show as an audio engineer or even an aspiring DJ you must have a good bit of knowledge in order to create a great mix. You need to know how to mix various instruments, amplifiers, and you need to understand mic placement. These are just a few of the things that you need to know before you jump straight into the use of a DJ mixer, and at this point you’re probably wondering what sort of equipment options you have. Yes, there are quite a few on the market and we’re going to discuss a few of them for you here today.

XONE: DB4

Right out of our store, the Xone: DB4 is a highly innovative piece of equipment, highly advanced, and descending from the incredible iLive pro-touring FX system. This system has been perfectly designed for live music with loops and FX automatically synchronized to track temp. These features make mixing a breeze, and low fidelity eliminates many of the issues you would run into when using virtual software Sometimes, going physical is the key.

As if that weren’t enough, the input matrix permits you to select any source on any channel you choose, applying different processing on the same track. Fade between them and even add a phrase sampled looper later in the track if you wish.

Pioneer DJMS9

DJ mixer for live soundhas been a long standing name and staple in the music industry, delivering products that not only stand the test of time, but add value to all of your live shows. The DJMS9 features the signature Magvel Fader Pro magnetic crossfader that permits you to easily change the operational load and even modify the reverse settings to your own personal preference. The rebound level can also be changed to your own desires thanks to the shock-absorbing bumpers.

  • Performance Pads – Live mixing has never been easier; 16 touch pads give you access to functions like Roll, Loop, Hot Cue, Sice, and several others. The accuracy cannot be denied, and using companion software (Serato DJ) you will be able to map your own functions to the pads, giving yourself full control over the performance.
  • FX Buttons – You’re looking for full control and you want to provide an amazing experience to your listeners. These FX buttons can be mapped with companion software, allowing you to set them however you wish.
  • Style Levers – The unit features two style levers that can be used to exit arrangements and perform many other functions.
  • USB Sound Cards –Interface many different devices with the mixer, whether you want to use your laptop, CJD, or turntable. DVS support makes it all possible!

When it comes to finding a good DJ mixer for live sound and recording you’re going to need something physical rather than one of the virtual options. There are tons of different virtual mixers available, but live sound requires a more personal touch and we’re sure you’re going to agree. If you’re ready to take the leap and choose a high end sound mixer for your next show then you can be rest assured that you’ve come to the right place, and that we have just what you need. Browse our selection and get ready to be amazed not only by our state of the art equipment for your live show, but also the outstanding prices that our store commands.

 

CategoriesLighting by

Shed Some Light on your Event with Wash Lighting

Putting on a show requires a lot of work, as you probably know, and there are quite a few pieces of equipment that you’re going to need to employ. The biggest mistake that new DJ’s or technicians make however is thinking that sound is everything. Sure, sound is a big part of creating the greatest show mankind has ever seen, but there’s so much more to it!

Today we’re going to be talking about lighting, which is arguably one of the most important stage effects you can employ. When you buy DJ lights, you should consider the subtle lighting as well as the more prominent lights – they will both be noticed, but one in a smaller way than others. So what is wash lighting? Why should you consider it when you buy DJ lights?

Wash Lighting – One of the Most Essential DJ Lights

DJ lighting effectsWhen it comes to DJ lights you have the basic LED’s that are meant to add that subtle effect, and then you have the wash lighting which can be considered floodlights. The idea is to literally light up an area on the stage. For example, let’s say you have a singer performing a solo in a play; you want the audience attention to be on her, and with that being the case, wash lights really are the best possible solution. They do a great job of illuminating a specific area, but they do have some downfalls.

The biggest problem with wash lights is that they cannot actually be focused, and should therefore only be used if you wish to light up a particularly large area. Floodlights do not have lenses in most cases, though there are some exceptions; Fresnel lights, for example. No matter what type of production you are holding or delivering, you need to make sure you have a few wash lights in your arsenal. In this article we’re going to talk about three of the most popular wash lights that we offer, and you might even want to consider implementing them into your stage routine.

The EZpar 64 RGBA

There are a lot of wash lights on the market, as you already know, but we are of the opinion that this is one of the coolest. Why? Because it’s wireless. If you’ve set up a stage before then you know exactly how irritating the wires can become, and let’s face it: they’re at rip hazard. Being able to get rid of even one wire is a blessing, which is why the EZpar 64 RGBA is so sought after. This is a battey powered wash light that will free you from the hassle of cables and make for a very quick and easy setup. This, of course, is only secondary to the level of performance that the 64 provides.

On top of being a high powered battery solution the 64 is able to deliver unparalleled performance using 180 red, gree, and blue Amber LED lights. In addition to that, the Lithium-Ion battery is capable of delivering 20 hours of performance on a single charge; if that isn’t cool we don’t know what is.

ColorKey StagePar64

It might not be battery powered, but the ColorKey does feature some of the most beautiful and powerful LED lights in the industry along with a COB to allow for smooth color mixing on the fly. It also features:

  • * Diffuser Lens
  • * Mounting Bezel
  • * Bright Output
  • * Modes Including:
    • * Dimming
    • * Strobe
    • * Gradual Change
    • * Color Fading
    • * Color Pulse

There are plenty of other included features including various control modes which will help you to keep your lighting and your production under control.

ColorKey MicroPar TRI

DJ lightsFinally we have the TRI which features a 25A Beam Angle along with typical RBG lighting to fit any situation. It comes with several different motes which include:

  • Dimming
  • Strobe
  • Gradual Change
  • Color Pulse
  • Color Fading

Set in an aluminum housing, this light is expected to last up to 100,000 hours, making it a worthy addition to your stage equipment.

The right DJ lighting effects can make all the difference in the world for you; make sure you’re getting the best hardware and bring your show to a brand new level.

 

CategoriesDJ by

DJ Equipment Tips – Mistakes to Avoid on a Wireless System

DJ EquipmentWhen you’re working with wireless DJ equipment you’re sure of two things, the first being that it is far more efficient than the wired option. The second, however, is that you’re dealing with an entirely different monster. When it comes to wired mics and equipment we have been using for decades, we’re certain of how it works. We know what we can do, we know what we can’t do, and most importantly, we know we’re wired into a single spot during a performance. Wireless mics bring something different to the table; they allow a performer or even a DJ to move around constantly while they are putting on a show.

It allows them to move fluidly through the audience without a care in the world, and that is a blessing that you absolutely can buy. Seriously, you haven’t experienced freedom until you’ve crowd surfed while staying connected to your mic. The only problem you might run into with this type of DJ equipment however, is signal reception. We’re going to go over a few problems that you might experience and offer up some solutions. Wireless microphones are an important part of the deal when you buy DJ equipment, but you need to know how to avoid some of the most critical mistakes.

Keep the Signal Clear for your Wireless DJ Equipment

It’s actually really hard for us to put emphasis on how important this one really is. The rule of thumb here is simple: just because the wireless signal for your transmitter can go through walls doesn’t mean it should, not by any means. There are a few things that you will want the signal to avoid including:

  • * Walls
  • * Metal Objects
  • * Crowds of People

 

Okay so you know what you need to avoid, and now that you have this information it can really only point to one reality: the receiver absolutely needs to be in the same room as the other equipment. In addition to that the receiver absolutely needs to be placed above the crowd on an elevated shelf or something similar.

Did you know that the human body is able to absorb RF energy? Well to be more accurate, it’s the water that absorbs the energy. Our bodies are about 70% water, and with that being the case, we tend to act as absorbers for any RF signal we come across. You’ll also find that if a user actually cups their hands around an external antenna, the output is reduced by half.

Bad Antenna Placement

wireless DJ equipment packageReceiver antennas can be pretty difficult to understand in your wireless microphone operation but it’s not rocket science; don’t worry about that. The biggest mistake you can make is simply putting them in the wrong location. If you fail to place them properly, you might have dead spots which really hit the performance and lead to dropouts. If you really want to raise your efficiency, you might try moving away from the single-antenna type of receiver and move toward diversity receivers, though they still need to be put in the right spot, without a doubt.

If you want to experience top performance with your wireless DJ equipment package, you will need to make sure you place the receiver antennas in a wide V configuration and space your antennas apart by at least one quarter of a wavelength. If possible, make sure that you are keeping your transmitters close to the antennas, maintaining line of sight where possible.

These two tips are going to help you to create an maintain an acceptable environment for your recording, broadcasting, and most importantly, live shows. There are tons of other tips we’ll be giving you throughout the coming months to help you ensure that your show is a complete success – you can never get too much advice when it comes to new technology and we’re definitely willing to share! In the meantime, check out our DJ equipment packages for sale – we have quite a few that will meet your needs and help you give your audience the show it deserves.

 

 

CategoriesDJ by

DAS Speakers – An Example of Excellence in DJ Equipment

When you’re looking for a good speaker system, especially when you need DJ equipment for live sound production, you’re going to want a brand that brings quite a bit to the table. You need to put your faith in a company that has been providing quality sound throughout the decades, and we believe that DAS is one of the few companies out there that actually fits the bill. The organization dates back to the early 1970’s, when the likes of Don McClean was first singing his legendary American Pie ballad on American stages, and countless other amazing performers were carving out their niche in the industry.

DAS systems were originally designed for the dance and club scene, which, as you know, was really gathering momentum and DAS really help to pioneer the sound that would become the standard for the generation. It has stretched far, into the 80’s, where the age of disco finally took over, and eventually evolved to cover both indoor and outdoor speaker systems. Today times have changed but you can still count on DAS to provide an outstanding sound solution for those who want the best of the best.
Live Sound production

DAS – Covering Generations of DJ Equipment for Sale

DAS Speakers are amazing and there are many different types, from the standard passive speakers all the way to the higher end powered speakers, which are preferred in many club scenarios. We’re going to take a look at a few of the more popular brands which are used for several different purposes.

The Action Series – 12A and 18A

The 12A

The 12A series is perfect for an all around speaker whether you’re using it as  a monitor or a compact PA system. Quite frankly, this thing is light, very light, and you can pack it up to take with you anywhere. Despite being low in the weight area, it features a 1000 W peak power and a class D amplifier, meaning it handles dynamic ranges quite nicely. In addition to that it handles low frequencies quite accurately, along with the high frequencies that are managed by the M-34 compression driver, featuring a 1” exit and titanium diaphragm.

The 18A

DJ EquipmentThe 18A is a monster of an entirely different type – a powered subwoofer system designed to furnish the user with extended bass using a 1500 W peak Class D Amplifier. Along with being the best sound in the industry the subwoofers bring two balanced inputs to the table, and gain control can increase the user’s control over the system entirely. If you want better sound and more control over the experience, this is definitely the route you want to take.

The Ceiling Series

While portable speakers, ie., the Action Series are great, the ceiling series adds something a bit more fixed and permanent to the mix. These are often an important part of and DJ equipment package, and they are frequently used as PA systems in recording booths. These speakers can be mounted in your walls, and will serve as a great way to get the sound to every corner of your home, or even your commercial building.

DAS has been providing the best in speakers for the last four decades and it shows no signs of slowing down, let alone stopping anytime soon. We’ve talked about a few of their great examples in this blog post, but you can be rest assured that there is far more to it than that. If you’re looking for something of the highest quality, and something that will last for a number of years whether you’re in the studio, on the road, at home, or somewhere in between.

Take a look at through our selection and make sure you’re getting what you need when it comes to sound – you’re going to thank yourself, and those who listen to your music are going to thank you even more.