If you’re looking to build your first DJ setup, you’ve probably realised how confusing the terminology can be. Between all the different controllers, software and audio gear, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed before you’ve even played a single track.
That’s why we wrote this guide to explain the essential equipment you actually need to start mixing. When you’re ready to take that next step and get your hands on a proper setup, there are four main components you need to get your head around.
DJ Software
DJ software is like the digital brains behind your entire setup. It runs on your laptop or phone and is where you both run your performances and manage your music library.
When you import a track into a DJ program, the software calculates the tempo and generates a visual waveform. Analysing your music is absolutely essential because it gives you vital track information like the musical key and BPM (beats per minute), which are all needed to play the tracks in the software. You can also create and edit playlists and organise all your music collection in here.
In the software you also control all the performance features, effects and everything you use to actually DJ. This is what your controller is actually changing; the audio isn’t being processed directly on the decks themselves.
There are quite a lot of software options out there and a lot of it is linked to what hardware you end up going for, but luckily lots of controllers work across different software options and there’s a lot of software you can try for free.
To figure out which platform suits your style, read our full breakdown of the best DJ software for beginners.
DJ Controllers
A DJ controller is the key piece of hardware that allows you to control your DJ software (hence the name). It gives you the knobs and buttons you need to manipulate your music so you don’t have to rely on a keyboard and mouse to use the software.
When you look at a typical beginner controller, you’ll tend to see two decks and a central mixer. On pretty much all controllers, you’ll find these key features:
Jog wheels: These are the large circular platters on the left and right decks. You use them to nudge a track into time while beatmatching.
Performance pads: These buttons allow you to trigger samples, use effects or jump to specific parts of a song.
Audio interface: Most beginner controllers have a built-in soundcard. This processes the digital audio from your laptop and sends an analogue signal out to your speakers and headphones.
Using a controller is the most practical and budget-friendly way to learn the ropes. To explore your options, read our dedicated guide on the best beginner DJ controllers.
DJ Speakers
There’s not much point in DJing if no one can actually hear what you’re playing, so you need some kind of speakers to make sure everything’s heard ok.
While you can technically learn the basics using whatever speakers you already have at home, dedicated DJ speakers make a huge difference. You will typically connect them using standard RCA or 3.5mm cables, running the audio straight from the back of your controller directly into the speakers.
What’s really important to know is that you can’t use Bluetooth speakers to DJ. This is because the slight delay between the audio coming from the computer and the speaker causes a latency that makes things like beat-matching impossible.
Having clear audio is what’s really important when you’re learning to DJ. If your speakers are muddy or distort the sound, you will struggle what’s actually going on in your mixes like when two tracks are clashing. Generally, we’d suggest you go for active speakers with built-in amplifiers, so you don’t need to buy any extra external hardware to get them working.
For our personal recommendations on finding the perfect pair, check out our guide to the best speakers for DJing.
DJ Headphones
DJs are famous for always having a pair of headphones around their neck, and there’s a good reason for it: you need to be able to hear and prepare the next track before the audience hears it.
Like with the speakers, you must use a wired connection because wireless Bluetooth headphones introduce latency. If there is even a fraction of a second delay between your controller and your ears, DJing completely impossible.
When shopping for headphones, look for a closed-back design. Good DJ headphones are designed to block out all the room noise so you can focus on your mix. They also need to be durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of DJ gigs.
To find the best pair for you, read our round-up of the best DJ headphones.
Learn to DJ the right way
Now you’ve got your setup all sorted, all you need are the skills to get the most out of it.
When you sign up to Crossfader for free, you’ll unlock your personalised learning journey to help you meet your DJ goals, as well as access to 3 free courses.