As a mobile disc Jockey (even club djs) you always feel the need to have the best equipment, perform the best and compete as the best. The DJ industry is a very competitive market and everyone around you involved in the business will have numerous products, packages and options to offer. What many of the DJs who have worked for our company over the years always want to know is what equipment should they use? Do they need to have elaborate setups?
In this day & age the economy is harder than ever. Times are tough and money is tight. Even the wealthy customers are looking for the best deals. Many of the big companies invest in certain pieces of equipment because they can offer it as a package. What you bring to your performance isn't as important as what experience you can provide your potential and booked clients. Just because a DJ brings the hottest Numark mixer or Dr Dre headphones doesn't mean that the customer will be satisfied with the job that they do. Customers are looking for how well you can handle the event not the latest technology you have. This is not to say that bringing a boom box and being the most experience DJ on the planet is going to guarantee success. But bringing a medium size setup and lighting for any moderate event is generally fine. After all your customers, for the most part don't care if you bring the ultimate mixing system. They are looking for great music and the right amount of interaction for their event. So before you go buying $8000 worth of DJ equipment to show off your setup invest your money and time into things that will help you.
So what do customers say they like the most when using your equipment. To be quite honest the one thing that stands out is dj lighting. The coolest piece of equipment that costs very little is a mini laser. We have a couple red & green mini lasers that you can buy from Guitar Center, Ebay or any professional music equipment store. They even sell them at Spencers. The customers are amazed by the laser, its only $99 and puts on a great show. Another affordable concept is having your music on a laptop with a professional dj program such as Virtual DJ, Traktor or Serato. Is it really worth investing in the hottest scratching turntable CD players? If you're planning to spin at club style events and it's all about having the coolest high tech equipment then it's up to you. What we suggest as a starting out mobile DJ is 2 15" DJ speakers, powered or passive, a couple of cool lighting effects, a basic mixer, case and laptop system or dual cd players. Start simple and work your way up. Unless you're planning to do huge Miami night club gigs with your own equipment then there's no need to have the biggest and baddest system around.
One other tip that we can provide you with when buying equipment. Do your research first! When you go to a music store such as Georges music, Guitar Center, Sam Ash, etc, the sales people are normally friendly but they are your friend because they want you to buy that $900 Allen and Heath mixer on display. Know what you want and make a list first then pursue those products. Don't let them talk you into expensive items, first thing you know you'll be walking out with with thousands of dollars spent.
If you have questions about gear post your questions and comments here and I'll be happy to reply.
- Billman
DJ South Florida
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