If you’re looking to make the most of modern technology for a versatile professional DJ setup, then you’re definitely going to need to invest in a virtual DJ mixer. A virtual mixer will offer you flexibility and plenty of powerful control over your music, no matter where you perform or what kind of genres you like to work with. Best of all, when you use digital mixers, you won’t need to worry about carrying physical media around, which can make your rig lighter, and also more affordable.

Let’s take a look at what you’ll need in terms of hardware for getting set up with a virtual mixer, and see just how easy it is to modernize your DJ setup.

Choosing Your Interface / Controller

A virtual setup still relies on some hardware controls, so you’ll need to get a controller deck if you’re serious about performing in clubs or at any event as a professional DJ. If you’re just getting started out, you’ll be pleased to learn that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a high quality virtual DJ mixer.

If you want to jump straight in with an affordable mixer, then you only need to look at the Hercules DJ Control Instinct S Series. This is one of the most popular entry-level mixers that we offer at Digital DJ Gear, but it’s feature packed and doesn’t force you to make any unnecessary compromises. It features two virtual DJ mixer decks with quality jog wheels, so that you can have total control over your music. It uses USB to interface with your laptop, and also features a range of transport, volume, and crossfade controls. This is just like the dual CD decks of the recent past, with the benefit of working with DJ software so that you can use MP3s instead of any form of physical media.

The Hercules mixer/controller comes with DJUCED 18 software, and is compatible with a laptop computer, android smartphone or tablet, or an iOS smartphone or tablet. You can literally take the Hercules anywhere that you need to go, and you’ll be able to start performing with minimal equipment.

How Powerful Does Your Computer Need to Be for a Virtual DJ Mixer

The great thing about using digital mixers with DJ software, is that much of the audio processing overhead will be taken care of on the controller itself. This means that you’ll be able to get low latency audio response, all though a standard USB 2.0 port. With that being said, you will still need to make sure that your computer is able to run modern applications, and you should be using a laptop that has at least a dual core processor, with more than 2GB of available RAM. A faster processor and more RAM will provide smoother performance throughout, so it is our recommendation to pair your virtual mixer software with the most powerful laptop or computer that you have available to you.

Do You Need Live Sound Equipment to Use with a Virtual DJ Mixer?

If you’re buying a complete DJ set and you want to make sure that you have all of the necessary hardware, then you might consider purchasing some live sound equipment. If you plan to book parties and other events, then there will be times when no PA system is available to you. In these cases, having a powered speaker will mean that you can simply connect your DJ controller and you’ll be ready to perform at any venue. Buying some live sound speakers doesn’t have to be overly expensive, and you can get access to great brands, even when you’re on a budget.

The JBL EON615 powered speaker is a great option for professional DJs, and it even includes Bluetooth connectivity as an added bonus. This full range 2-Way speaker has 1000 watts of peak power, so you’ll have no trouble getting your sound across in mid-sized venues. If you need more coverage, then you could even pair two of these together.

When you’re using digital mixers, like one of the controllers from Hercules, you’ll be able to go straight from the line out into these powered speakers, with no need for any other amplifier or mixing equipment. You can browse our range to explore all of our live sound speaker options, including models from D.A.S., Electric Voice, and Peavey.

Ready to Get Started? Browse Virtual DJ Mixers Now

With a relatively small package required to get started, there’s no better time than now to kick off your DJ career. Start exploring our range today, and you’ll find that you can get affordable DJ equipment that is more than cut out for use on a professional stage.