I hooked up my Computer to My Mixer NOW WHAT

Ok, so you saw the past post on how to hook your computer up to your DJ system through your mixer or amp. Find the post here: http://disc-jockeys.blogspot.com/2009/02/how-do-i-connect-my-computer-to-my-dj.html
Now you are interested in learning more and want to move on form using Windows Media Player, Itunes, or maybe you are ready to take the next step by using a Dual Music Player Program.

There is nothing wrong with using Windows media player, Itunes, or any standard computer music player. Most of these players give you the option to open a second or even third instance of the program so you can play 2 or 3 songs at once if needed, but most do not have pitch control to help you mix (some do have add-ons).

I suggest finding yourself a Professional DJ Mixing software program that you are comfortable with. I highly discourage you from using cracked or illegially downloaded programs because they contain all types of Bugs and you Can NOT update them.

There are Hundreds of professional and non-professional DJ Software programs on the market and more are being added daily. You can even download an app to your Droid or I Phone and dj from that in a pinch. Since there are so many programs I will create a future post with links to the top software that DJs use around the world. But for now we are going to concentrate on what you want from in your software.

Here are the Questions you need to ask yourself to limit the search.

How much am I willing to Pay?

What Platform PC/MAC?

Do you need Karaoke Capabilities?

Do you need Video Capabilities?

What Features are You Looking for?

Vol - Bass Treb - Pitch - key - Effects - Sampler - Plug ins - automix - Skins - Midi - CD Control - Vinyl control - webcam control

Once you make a list of what you want you will be able to make a better decision on the software for you.

Next up in this series:

Built in sound card vs. USB sound card

Monster GODJ

Monster GODJ

GO-DJ packs a studio full of pro gear into a pocket sized controller, allowing you to produce (and record) broadcast quality audio and DJ sets anywhere you are. No more laptops. It is completely stand-alone.
I have one and Love it!
http://www.monstergodj.com/en/

I'm BAAAAAACCCCCKKKKK

Ladies, gentlemen, and DJ's of all level the Captain is back(after numerous requests)!!!

Since moving to sunny California, I've put some effort into upgrading my on the road system. I'd like to share with you what the road I've chosen to walk down.
So lets begin. I have always thought Serato was the way to go, since its really everywhere. But recently, I've had the pleasure of trying out Torq, Tractor, and as of the DJ convention, the new Mixmeister. Now, i know people who have been using the program for some time, but it has always been just that, a program with no hands on. But at the convention, Newmark released a controller, and i was interested! So when it hit the shelves, out i went. (picked it up for $299, WAY below MSRP). Hooked it up in my garage that night and started playing. Now, as a DJ and gadget guy, I love Knobs and buttons! But, with 40 knobs, 53 buttons and a Jog Wheel for fast location management, it was a bit overwhelming. But this little Midi has some bite!(Yes, i'm still learning). And the best part, its compact. The down Side, 19 1/2 across, no fader's, and the response time shows some lag. But with this, I'm able to be in the mix 8,10,20 songs into the future allowing me to tweak or interact accordingly. From here, i thought, compact is good, less weight, shorter set-up and break down. So i found this little guy from Acer. Now while Linux is available, I went with Windows, 1GB ram, 120 internal hard drive, and the 6 cell battery (6.5 hours battery life). This little guy (about $400) has 3 USB slots, which is not enough for me to run 2 hard drives, a computer fan, the Mixmeister controller, and the second sound card needed to mix. A simple multi USB jack fixed all that. I was also concerned about the size of the keyboard, not because its smaller, but if i needed to find something quick i may be prone to mistype. So i bought a regular size roll-up keyboard($15), problem solved! Now to make my speakers light, and on Black Friday I solved that problem while strolling through Guitar Center. For $175 a piece, i grabbed a pair of these powered speakers. I will be the first to admit, the specs did scare me a little, but my first time on the road and all that went out the window. With a 5 band EQ, Mic inputs, and 2 balanced XLR and 2 unbalanced 1/4" inputs, these fit the bill. No distortion, hums, clips, and always clean sound, im very happy. At about 60lbs a piece, they don't hurt my back or wallet. I paired all this to a Behringer XENYX 802($30), and I'm on the road for under $1000, and well under 200lbs. Now, for those of you lighting people out there, don't think i didn't upgrade my lighting too, but we will wait until next time. Along with lights, I'll also share some of the things I have on my, extensive, wish list.... Until Next time, PLUR!!

Visit our Friends at skanteck.com,djgreggiec.com and JHatchDJ.com

DJ Helper - A Mixing Plug-in for Winamp

The DJ Helper is a plugin for WinAmp, the "ultimate high-fidelity music player for Windows".

The DJ Helper gives WinAmp more features than professional DJ-type CD players that cost $500 or more.

Using the DJ Helper and a standard PC with two soundcards, you can master performances like a pro DJ, with unprecedented ease. In fact, the DJ Helper has already resolved many multi-hour gigs in front of hundreds of people and driving several thousand watts of music power.

To get this Plug-in CLICK HERE or just click the picture to the left.

To get Winamp CLICK HERE