Going Simple: Basic DJ Mixers

When it’s time to look for a basic mixer for your DJ setup, then there’s only one company that you need to remember – Digital DJ Gear. We stock some of the best DJ and professional audio brands in the world and offer them at prices that make them more affordable for musicians and entertainers of all levels.

When you need a new DJ mixer, or even a digital mixer to replace your old deck setup, there are a few preferred recommendations that can help you to get started in your search.

Looking for a DJ Mixer Online?

DJ MixersIf you are trying to find the simplest way to shop, then online shopping is definitely the answer. Through our site, you will get access to all of our products, ranging from DJ gear, all the way to professional live sound and rigging equipment. Best of all, you’ll be able to buy your products online and take advantage of free shipping throughout the contiguous United States on qualified orders.

A drop-in replacement mixer will be necessary if you need to replace a worn out mixer on your CD or vinyl deck setup. For this, we recommend going with the Mixers Cut DJ Mixer. It’s a simple two channel mixer that comes with none of the bells and whistles that you will find on modern controls. For many DJs, this is preferred, particularly if you like working with records or CDs. You won’t get bogged down by any features that you won’t need, and you’ll still get total control over your EQ, levels, and crossfade.

The built-in crossfader is designed to stand up to live use and is rated for 4 Million cycles. That kind of durability is simply unheard of with some modern equipment, so you’ll definitely appreciate this ‘back to basics’ DJ mixer.

Want to Enter the Digital Realm?

For anyone that is looking to take up DJing as a hobby or even as a profession, digital mixers can be a good choice. They are more suited to those who have limited space and who want an all in one package that includes the mixer as well as the control decks. Also known as DJ controllers, these devices are affordable and relatively easy to use.

A digital mixer will take the audio from a connected source like a laptop computer or smartphone. Different mixers have different capabilities, with some allowing you to shape the sound with various effects, and there are even mixers that incorporate scratch pads and performance pads for triggering samples that allow you to create music on the fly.

DJ mixersThe Hercules Instinct P8 Ultra-Mobile USB DJ Controller is a great entry level choice that will provide you with plenty of features to start experimenting with. It can connect directly to your laptop, giving you access to all of your digital music files. That means you won’t need to worry about separate vinyl or CD decks, and you’ll have less equipment to carry around when you are performing live. The mixer section includes sound shaping controls, volume sliders, and a high-quality crossfader. There are four programmable performance pads per channel, as well as two scratch pads that allow you to perform similarly to how a DJ would on a traditional turntable.

Best of all, the Hercules Instinct is a DJ mixer that has a small footprint, so it’s great for a desktop in a home studio, or on a small stand for a live show. Don’t be fooled by the low price and small size, because this is an entry level unit that can produce high-quality sound, and it includes all of the basic features that you need to start perfecting your DJ skills.

Start Browsing Our Online Store Today

Digital, virtual DJ mixers, and traditional standalone mixers – whatever you are looking for, you’ll be able to find the best products at Digital DJ gear. With competitive pricing and an extensive range, there’s no better place to shop for your DJ needs.

Three Features Your DJ Mixer Needs to Have

If you are looking for a DJ mixer that offers you all of the right modern features, as well as versatility to perform in the way that you want, then you’re going to have to take some time to research what is available. Unlike mixers of the past, modern systems are predominantly based on virtual DJ controllers. Instead of using vinyl decks and a standalone mixer, you’ll get everything in a single deck, interfacing with your computer and offering you more creative options than ever before.

If you want to know what you should be looking for with the newer digital mixers, then these three features would be a great starting point.

Compatibility with a Quality Software Product

Digital Dj Controllers rely heavily on software for their value and capabilities. If you’re going to be using your unit professionally, then you’ll want one that is compatible with industry standard software, with Serato DJ being one of the top choices. Some mixers are software specific whereas others will work with a range of different software products.

Native Instruments Traktor is another software platform that offers excellent mixing tools for the modern DJ. While Traktor does have a higher learning curve than Serato, it offers more powerful mapping features, which makes it more adaptable for experienced professionals.

When you choose well-known brands like Pioneer and Hercules, you can guarantee that you’ll get excellent compatibility between software and your DJ mixer controller.

Standalone Mixer, Or Integrated Decks?

Hercules DJ Control Wave M3If you want a single unit that provides all of your needs as a DJ, then you’re going to need to go for a DJ controller, rather than just a straight DJ mixer. Technically, a mixer is a piece of hardware that controls volume, EQ, cross fade, channel balance, and other related variables.

With a DJ controller, you get everything that you would on a mixer, with the addition of two virtual decks that can be used to manipulate tracks, just like you would with vinyl records. In fact, scratch pad decks are even more versatile than vinyl, and you’ll have total control over all of your high-quality MP3 files.

If you want to make sure that you’re getting the best-integrated decks with scratch pads, then make sure that you are choosing a reputable manufacturer.

At Digital DJ Gear, we only stock equipment that we trust, which makes the selection job much easier for you. Even in the entry level, we have versatile and high-quality products. One recommendation is the Hercules DJ Control Wave M3. It features a digital mixer as well as scratch pads and all of the cue and sound manipulation controls that you would need. Prices go up as you gain more advanced features, so don’t forget to check out our full DJ Controllers category page to see what’s available.

A Digital Mixer with Performance Pads

DJ MixerSo you know that you need software compatibility and scratch pads when you’re buying a quality mixer/controller, but there’s one more thing that you will need if you want to get the most versatility for your money.

The last feature; is performance pad support. Modern controllers come with rubber pads built right into the deck so that you can trigger individual sounds, use them as transport controls, freestyle a beat, or you can use them to trigger almost any setting or sound variation that your software will support.

Roland, Pioneer, Hercules, and Numark are all examples of companies that sell digital mixer DJ controllers with performance pads.

Browse Our Range of Professional DJ Mixers Today

At Digital DJ Gear, we have you covered from the entry level, right up to high-end digital mixers. Whether you’re just starting out, or you’re a seasoned professional, you’ll be able to get the equipment that you need, at a price that beats the competition.

Start browsing our range today for some of the best DJ, live sound, recording, production, and stage equipment.

 

 

Basic Hardware Requirements for a Virtual DJ Mixer

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

DJ MixerA 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?

Virtual DJ MixerIf 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.

 

Find the Audio Equipment you Need for Podcasting

Audio equipmentPodcasting is a relatively new art, having come about near the end of the 90’s, and now virtually anyone can do it so long as they have access to the right equipment. Figuring out what that equipment is and what you need to do to get access to it can be a challenge, but we’ve taken the liberty of putting together two great examples of USB audio interfaces that will help you to get started in style. Best of all, they’re not extremely expensive, which is great news for your wallet.DJ mixer equipment is critical, especially when it comes to podcasting; don’t pass up the best. Let’s take a quick look at the two different options and get your show on the road

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface

The first thing that we want to say is that Focusrite wouldn’t know how to disappoint us even if we provided it written instructions explaining exactly how to do so. We’ve been using and selling their products for years without so much as a single complaint from either side, so it shouldn’t be too much of a surprise that it’s sitting front and center at the top of our list here. Today we’re talking about the Scarlett 2i2 which has plenty of benefits for both the highly seasoned and novice digital DJ. First of all, 2 diverse inputs.  Each input has a highly regarded Focusrite mic preamp with even gain and also features two instrument inputs that can handle hot guitar pick-ups. In other words, it’s ready to go right out of the box and there’s little doubt that it can handle whatever you have to throw at it.

Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio Microphone

Audio-Technica has also long been known for developing some of the greatest online Recording solutions and the AT2020 is certainly no exception. This is a condenser mic , and we have to say that the price and performance are phenomenal. For the pod caster on the go, this is one of the best solutions that we have found, and it is also outstanding for home-studio applications. The unit itself features high SPL handling along with a wide dynamic range with unmatched versatility.

Audio-Technica Recording SolutionsIn addition to that, the low-mass diaphragm is able to bring extended frequency response along with a greater transient response than most other products on the market. It is also able to easily isolate a desired sound source using a cardioid polar pattern, meaning you can eliminate other sounds from the background with ease. If you are in a home studio and don’t have access to a soundproof booth, then this is definitely going to be the direction you want to go – there’s nothing more annoying than background noise when you are trying to run a podcast, and this microphone does a stellar job of eliminating that problem. Now would be a great time to take a look at it and see if it fits into your show. We’re going to bet that it does.

To put it quite simply, while podcasting is something that nearly everyone can do, not everyone has access to the best equipment. That being the case, you need to put some time and money into not only becoming the best, but making sure that your voice is properly heard. In all honestly, people aren’t going to listen to you if your voice is distorted or if you have tons of background noise.

If you want to become an authority if your niche, then it’s time to invest in the best equipment and make sure you’re able to reach your audience in the way you desire. It doesn’t matter if you’re covering the latest art show or running the resistance radio, it’s all about presentation and if you look through our store, you’re going to find that we have some of the best digital mixers, recording equipment, and mixer DJ equipment. We’re here for you every step of the way.

 

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 PadsLive 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 LeversThe unit features two style levers that can be used to exit arrangements and perform many other functions.
  • USB Sound CardsInterface 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.