 |
|
|
|
|
The handbook is a 272 page manual that takes the reader through all the steps necessary to become a superstar digital DJ/VJ. From the basics of how to be a DJ; sourcing tunes, song structure, beat-matching, mixing, compiling and producing visual imagery culminating in making your own music videos.
It is more than just a "How to DJ" book with technical information ranging from video formats and software to connecting up AV systems without bringing down the national Grid.
|
|
|
|
|
|
| 3. ON THE DECKS - CHOOSING THE RIGHT KIT |
|
Hooking up with the right kit is essential. Although a great violinist can get a sweet sound from a stretched cat, the one thing they couldn't do is learn to be a great violinist without practicing on a great instrument. Dodgy kit is kinda like the bacon around the filet, it hides a lot of sins. Learning to mix on your home stereo through a cheap two channel mixer is fine until the day you plug into a pair of decent monitors with a DJM800. With the kind of clarity great kit gives you, your sins are exposed, and you find yourself learning to mix all over again. While you might not be able to buy the best kit right off, we'll point you toward the industry standards, and some great home kit that'll get you started right.
|
|
DVD decks
|
Pioneer DVJ-X1
There really is only one choice for DVD decks, and that's the DVJ-X1. DVJ's need from their DVD decks precisely what they would expect their turntables - instant start, rock-solid performance, scratch without delay, pitch-bending, digital sound, cue points and no glitches. Although there are cheaper decks on the market, most lack any or all of these features. This is the one place to spunk out your cash - it's worth it.
|
|
Numark DVD01 Dual DVD Player
Awesomely cheaper than the DVJ-X1, the DVD01 gives potential DVJs two decks in a rack-mount configuration for less than the price of one - but not without a price. If you're at all interested in beat-matching, creating seamless loops, or scratching, you can forget about it. While the decks will cue up a DVD, they won't start instantly, with a noticeable pause between pressing play and play actually happening. There is a gap when you create a loop, meaning you'll have a moment of silence and black before your selection loops around to the front. And there's no scratch facility. We also used a pair of these on a North American gig recently, and found they wouldn't long tracks (a 35-minute mix) from beginning to end without stuttering. However, if you're a mobile jock playing mostly corporate, wedding or high school dance parties, these decks may get you on the DVJ ladder at a price you can afford. Just be prepared to upgrade at a later date.
|
|
|
|
Phil K
"DVjing has helped put more of my personality and taste into my performances. Most of the clips I make myself and most of the visuals that I use are filmed by me on my travels, so in a weird kinda way it's like the audience is watching the world through my eyes and experiencing something I have while I'm playing my music."
|
|
|
James Zabiela
"DVJing for me is just another way to have more fun behind the decks. Another element to control and manipulate and another dimension to take the crowd into."
|
|
|
