Building your new DJ setup can feel exciting yet daunting. You may feel overwhelmed with the numerous controllers available which is why it is so important to know exactly what you’re spending your money on.

With so many options now available, making an informed decision on the equipment needed to make the best sound is vital. In this equipment guide, we will walk you through what equipment is best for beginners so that you can feel confident in your purchases and your ability and skill!

What setup should I choose?

When it comes to DJing, there are many different types of setups to choose from. Most beginners tend to opt for a more compact setup that requires less equipment. The simplest way to do this is to start with a laptop/tablet and compatible software. Others may choose to use a turntable and a mixer or a standalone controller that can stream music from an online service like Spotify or Tidal

From here, these setups can be easily upgraded whenever you want, either by adding a mixer or adding a larger DJ controller with more channels and control. DJ controllers include pads to trigger sounds, additional inputs for phones/microphones and additional controls to make your music as clear and professional as possible.

If you are working digitally, i.e., with MP3s rather than with vinyl or CDs, you can achieve this through a small setup of a laptop, appropriate software, and a controller.

What kind of equipment will I need?

Although there are lots of different equipment types to browse, most DJs create a setup comprised of:

● Mixer
● Turntables
● Headphones
● CD/vinyl or a laptop
● Digital software
● Speakers

When it comes to making music, everyone has their own style and way of mixing, so it is a great idea to explore what types of equipment will best serve you. The sheer amount of equipment can be a bit overwhelming for any new DJ.

To help, we’ve created a list of what we believe to be the essential equipment needed to create star-quality audio.

Input devices

A traditional DJ setup uses two devices to mix music, controlled via a mixer to crossfade the source. These devices can be a vinyl turntable, CD deck or a media player. Vinyl turntables are the more traditional option and can help you to achieve the classic DJ sound. CD decks are still widely used but media players are now becoming the norm as they use USB sticks or SSD HHD to store thousands of tracks making them cheaper and easier to transport.

At Simply Sound & Lighting, we sell a wide range of turntables, CD and media players suitable for beginners. One of our best-selling turntables is the Reloop RP-4000M MK2 Direct Drive Turntable. This piece of equipment is the ideal turntable for any beginner and includes a newly developed top panel with precision pitch and a powerful belt-drive motor system.

Alternatively, come and visit us in store for product demonstrations or to speak to a member of our team!

Mixer

The mixer is considered the core aspect of any setup and gives you control over your mix. It allows DJs to perform specialist mixes and effects, transitioning between songs with ease. One of the most popular mixers is the Numark M4 3CH DJ Mixer.

Even at this mid range price, you get a well made mixer with a quality crossfader and clean sound. Allowing beginners and professionals alike to create magnificent mixes sure to gather any audience on the dancefloor.

However, if you’re looking for something more compact and affordable, why not try the Reloop RMX-10BT 2 Channel Compact Bluetooth DJ Mixer which enables you to play music from a bluetooth enabled phone/table..

Headphones

Investing in quality headphones is a key when starting out as a DJ. Doing so will help you to queue songs and mix tracks clearly. A good set of headphones will also help you to figure out the BPM and choose tracks to play next which will mix well.

When choosing headphones, it’s important to consider how well they isolate sound, if they have accuracy in the low end, and if the earcups are rotatable. Although everyone has their own preference, it’s also very important to choose comfort and not just the most popular product.

Don’t forget, you’re likely to be wearing your headphones for multiple hours, so you’ll need something that’s not heavy or flimsy.

We recommend the Sennheiser HD25 Professional On Ear Headphones These headphones are industry standard, built to last with a clear sound that cuts through the noise. Designed for long-term use, these headphones are durable, offering additional swivel, tilt, and collapsible functions.

Speakers

Whilst you may have created an amazing mix, only the best speakers will be able to convey this to your audience. Purchasing monitor speakers can help beginners to hear mixes with accuracy and get a sense of what your mix will sound like when played live in a club!

To help you with your home setup, monitor speakers are likely to be your best option. These are often inexpensive and much smaller compared to PA systems used at events and in clubs.

Our online store has many different speakers in stock, including monitor speakers like the Hercules Monitor 5 Studio Speakers

Controller

Most DJs opt for as simple a setup as possible which is often comprised of a laptop and a controller. If you would prefer not to use vinyl or CD, a controller will be all you need to create a workable DJ setup at home. Most easily connect through USB or Bluetooth.

Controllers can replicate the same function of a turntable and mixer, some have jog wheels, scratch control and trigger pads. They ultimately allow for easy manipulation of tracks as the user has the ability to mix their track which is played from a laptop or tablet. Some controllers stream tracks directly which allows you to have a constantly updated database of new tracks to play.

The Pioneer DJ DDJ-400 2CH DJ Controller For Rekordbox DJ Software is an all-in-one package suitable for beginners. This easy to use setup can be used to develop your begineer skills without having to spend excessive amounts of money on separate pieces of equipment. All cables are included and DJ software to start playing straight out of the box.
It also means you will be familiar with Pioneer equipment, which means you can gradually progress to a more advanced Pioneer controller when you are ready.

The total cost of a beginner DJ setup can range from a few hundred pounds to over £1,000, though this depends on the equipment you choose. Creating quality music and having fun as you master a new skill is the most important thing, so you shouldn’t feel as though you have to spend lots of money to achieve this!

For more information or to speak to a member of our team, call us today or drop into our Diss store and chat with a team member.