DJ Equipment Guide

If you are a newbie to the DJ world, then congratulations! You are here at the right track with us because we are going to introduce you some of the best basic and premium equipment when starting a DJ set-up.

This process is often overlooked by new DJs. But it can be considered the most important key point to bring your set up to stand out of the crowd. A great set up could help you in the long term.

Set Up Options for Beginners

We recommend starting with real DJ needles and cartridges. The tracking force of cartridges tells you how much pressure is recommended to be put on the record. … While it has a standard Spherical stylus (to avoid damaging records when rigorously scratching), the Scratch tracks heavier in the groove so the DJ doesn’t have to contend with the needle jumping out all the time! There is one range of cartridges that have become synonymous with Vinyl DJing – Jico J44A 7 model.

Recommended: Ortofons J44A 7 Model

4. Slipmats

A slipmat is a circular piece of slippery cloth, typically made of polyester or synthetic materials that DJs use to enhance scratching techniques and cue records. Slipmats differ from rubber turntable mats and cork turntable mats.

Recommended: Serato 12″ Slipmats

5. Speakers

Monitors are an essential piece of the puzzle when it comes to DJ equipment as they help you mix and produce tracks. Whether you’re looking to produce tracks at home or just practice your mixing purchasing one or more monitor speakers is a must.

Recommended: JBL 305P MKII Super White 5″ Powered Studio Monitor

6. Headphones

By using headphones, you can hear the quality of the sound and then know when to change the music or mix it up. It also helps the DJs in hearing their cue points.

Our Favourite: AIAIAI TMA-2 Modular Headphones – DJ Preset

7. Control Records

Control records act like Vinyl but engage with a software such as Serato, to load digital MP3s into the blank control vinyl. These allow you to use all the functions of the mixer while accessing your digital library of music.

Recommended: Serato 12″ Control records

SOFTWARE

Last but not least, you will have to install DJ Software if you want to use digital MP3s with your setup. Different mixers are compatible with different softwares. We recommend Serato DJ Pro but be sure to check which softwares your products are compatible with.

Alternative Set Up: Controllers- Rane One

We understand that not everybody has access to the equipment above. Turntables and all the gear has a large set up cost. An alternative setup which we also recommend highly is the Rane One. While we do not endorse the use of controllers due to their limited range of functions. We highly recommend and endorse the new Rane One controller which is the world’s first controller with motorized platters. The Rane One is a revolutionary compact DJ Controller which is a close substitute for the classed turntable setup.

See more about the Rane One here: https://www.rane.com/one

Note: When using a controller, you will still need the speakers, headphones and DJ software.

Beginner Learning Pathway

January 21, 2021

10 Comments on DJ Equipment Guide

Scripture Stalk January 22, 2021 at 12:51 pm

This is everything I needed months ago. Way to go Rob. ??
- DJ Rob Swift January 27, 2021 at 12:33 am
  
  Right on brother! Have fun at your new school!
  
  – Rob Swift
DJ Rob Swift January 22, 2021 at 1:04 pm

Respect! It’s what we’re here for. If you need any other advice or more information don’t hesitate to email us at [email protected] ! We’re looking forward to having you on board.
KungFuDork January 22, 2021 at 10:40 pm

Can I suggest the new Ortofon VNL needles. I replaced my Shure 447s with a set and I love them. I like they have the same build style like the Shures and need a headshell, it feels familiar. The sound is a bit crisper and less punchy than the 447s. I heard that becomes levels out after hours of playtime. They didn’t skip right out of the box! No old school tricks like putting them in the freezer or let it run next to the sticker overnight…haha.
Added bonus, the cartridge comes with 3 different stylus with different stiffness. I found all 3 feel and sound great. I’m using the II.
- DJ Rob Swift January 27, 2021 at 12:34 am
  
  The new Ortofon VNL needles are the truth. I own a pair myself!!!
  
  – Rob Swift
deadeyeblue February 3, 2021 at 7:23 pm

I just purchased a reloop elite mixer last month before joining your school.
I seen the recommendations for mixers
I have an opportunity to make a deal with a friend and get my hands on a rane 72 (1st edition)
But I hope the reloop Is worthy
Not used to all the tech on any mixer sort of old school just getting back into DJing . All those buttons make me confuse me
Beginner Learning Pathway - Brolic Army DJ School March 9, 2021 at 11:07 pm

[…] A good place to start is by making sure you have your DJ setup connected with all the necessary equipment. If you are unsure what you need, or want to double check, please refer to our Equipment Guide. […]
FM Frequency April 11, 2021 at 2:13 am

Wasn’t the Numark NS7 the first controller with motorized platters?
Joseph Emanuele June 13, 2021 at 1:21 pm

What do you think about the TRAKTOR KONTROL Z2? Q-bert uses Traktor.
- DJ Rob Swift June 14, 2021 at 1:28 am
  
  Personally, I’m not big on Controllers. I’m more of analogue guy. But at the end of the day, a person should use what they’re comfortable with so long as they understand how to apply the authenticity of DJing to the gear.