4 Things You Didn’t Know About DJ Controllers

DJ Controllers

As with any profession, it is imperative that you keep up with the latest trends and you continuously educate yourself on the ways in which your industry is evolving over time. As a seasoned professional or a brand new DJ learning the ropes, there is always new information to brush up on regarding trends, new artists, and what is hot in regards to popular culture. The point is that there is always information available that will make you better at what you do. This article will highlight some things that you may not know about DJ controllers.

Owning the most expensive equipment on the market does not make you the best DJ.
It may be a bit disappointing to learn that no matter how expensive your DJ controller was, having a costly piece of equipment will not make you a highly coveted artist. In order to be a great DJ, you must know how to use your equipment, regardless of how many great features it has. When you are 
researching DJ controllers and considering which one to purchase, you should keep in mind that regardless of the type of controller you purchase, you will also need a laptop or computer that offers editing software made specifically for DJ’s. In addition to a controller and computer, you will also need an audio card and speakers.

While it may seem that you will be doing all of the work DJing, the truth of the matter is that your computer is actually the most valuable player. Not only does your computer serve as the main hub for music storage, but it also controls the sound, hosts the software package, and makes adjustments for you. Many are often surprised to learn that the DJ controller does not help with these functions at all. The controller acts as a liaison between the software on the computer and the knobs, and buttons that then make the music. As a matter of fact, if you wanted to, you could just push the auto-sync button and the computer will do the work for you. However, with that being said, you could just push the auto-sync and let it do all the work for you, but that takes all the fun out of DJing and really limits the potential creativity of the track.

DJ Controllers Guide

It doesn’t matter where you practice. Just practice.
DJing may start off as merely a hobby, but it could launch into something bigger and more profound than you ever imagined. Many famous DJ’s started off with knowing very little about music or the profession. The one thing that they all have in common, however, is their love of music and their passion for sharing music with the world through DJing. Practicing in your kitchen, garage, or office will not make a difference. What will make a difference is the fact that you are putting in the time to learn and strengthen your skills and abilities to perform? While practicing, make sure that your equipment is set up in a comfortable manner. If you are practicing in the kitchen or family room and need to prop up your laptop or other equipment onto a shelf, ironing board, or stack of boxes; do it. It doesn’t matter what it looks like when you practice, just make sure to practice!

Update your controller software, firmware, and drivers often.
It is quite possible that your controller manufacturer has an update available but you are unaware of it. If you are not signed up for emails or a warranty through the manufacturer, you will likely be in the dark when an update is available. Therefore, be sure to check the manufacturer’s website often to make sure that you are operating with the most up to date software, firmware, or drivers available to you.

Recording yourself is very important.
By listening to yourself practice, you are putting yourself in the seat of a person in the audience at one of your gig’s. There is no better way to learn about your abilities or areas of growth than to listen to yourself with a completely open mind. Being willing and able to take your own constructive feedback as well as others’ will only help you to become a better DJ. Experiment, try new things, and be willing to fail from time to time. Nobody found perfection by being perfect as that just isn’t possible. Put on your creative hat, get out there, and try new things. Just remember to hit record so that you can listen to it later and evaluate what you might do differently or change next time. You can also take note as to what you liked and replicate it in the future.