What do I need to get started DJing?

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What do I need to get started DJing?

Turntable, DJ mixer

Turntable

A turntable is a machine for playing back records.
The basic operation is "place a record in the turntable → drop a needle on the record → press the start button". In addition to the 12-inch records that are generally 30 cm in diameter, it is also possible to play 7-inch (donuts) familiar with reggae and rare FUNK. The standard for selecting a turntable is a direct drive specification that provides stable operation. The motor power (torque) can be adjusted in pitch. Typical turntables used by DJs include the SL Series 1200 from TECHNICS, the PDX Series from VESTAX, and the TT Series from NUMARK.

DJ mixer

As the name suggests, DJ mixers are machines that "mix sounds". The signal from the turntable is taken in to adjust the volume and the tone quality, and the sound from the turntable is mixed with a sliding switch called a fader.
The mixed sound is sent to equipment such as amplifiers and components and played from the speakers. If there are only 2 turntables, a 2-channel DJ mixer is enough! If you want to connect a CD player or other equipment, we recommend a model with 3 or more channels.

Cartridge

Cartridges are small but very important items that attach to a turntable and pick up sound from the groove of a record. Cartridges are roughly divided into two types, "head shell mounting type" and "head shell integrated type".

Head shell mounting type

The head shell mounting type is used by fixing it to the base for fixing the cartridge called head shell using a screw like the model in the picture.

Head shell integrated type

As the name suggests, the head shell integrated type has an integrated cartridge part and head shell part, and there is no head shell, so there is no need for wiring or adjustment to the head shell, and it is possible to mount it on the turntable immediately after purchase. The cartridge for DJ is more durable than the cartridge for general listening, and a gutsy sound is obtained because the output is large.

Headphone, slip mat, cable

Headphone

Headphones are essential for monitoring (preparation for the next song). Although cheap headphones can be used, we recommend headphones for DJs that are highly durable even at slightly higher prices and that the ear cup is large and easy to monitor. For use in a club etc., you are monitoring under the noise of the club, so the sound cannot be easily monitored with ordinary headphones! ! Let's choose a good headphone here!

Slip mat

Because it is laid between the turntable and the record, it is rarely sees daylight, but it is a very important item to slide the record! You cannot DJ without this. It is thin and hard is for scratching. Some thickness and softness is strong for howling and is suitable for use under loud sound pressure venues such as clubs. It comes with most of the turntables for DJs, but you can choose from a variety of design patterns, so choose your favorite mat.

Cable

The cable connecting the turntable to the DJ mixer comes with the purchase of the turntable, but the cable for outputting from the DJ mixer to the amplifier or component is separate. It is common to use a red / white stereo pin cable to connect video audio to a TV. However, it also differs depending on the output terminal of the mixer and the input terminal of the amplifier, so if you do not know, check with the shop staff at the time of purchase.

Useful goods to have

Turntables and mixers are a necessity for DJs, but there are other useful small items. Here are some useful items.

Slip sheet

Thin vinyl sheets, but not slip mats. This is a required item for the scratcher. The slip is improved between the turntable and the slip mat. If two sheets are used, slip will be even better. Please be careful not to slip too much.

Record cleaner

Record cleaners are available from many brands. From just removing dust, to removing dirt with liquid. Old records tend to collect dirt at the back of the groove. If you clean with the cleaner, the noise is suppressed and the clear sound quality is returned.