Starting as a dj
Starting as a DJ can be overwhelming with so many controllers, software options, audio gear, and accessories to choose from. The best setup depends on your budget, music style, and long-term goals.
But don’t worry Decks & Dreams has you covered. We research and recommend the ideal equipment for your needs while guiding you on where to purchase at the best prices.
We recommend a few essential items to help you kickstart your journey as a DJ.
Laptop or Computer
DJ Courses (optional but recommended)
What do you need to start as a dj?
A laptop or computer is essential for running DJ software and managing your music library. It also connects directly to your controller, enabling smooth and seamless mixing. We recommend using a laptop, as it offers greater mobility, allowing you to take your music anywhere and perform at different locations with ease.
Ideally, your laptop should have a powerful CPU and ample storage to ensure smooth performance and seamless mixing.
1. Laptop or computer
Now that you have your laptop, it's time to install DJ software. Many options, like Rekordbox, Serato Lite, and Virtual DJ, are free to download and use. But which one is right for you? In truth, they’re all quite similar, so the choice largely comes down to personal preference. However, it's important to note that some DJ controllers can unlock premium features within certain software for free. For example, connecting a compatible controller to Rekordbox unlocks Performance Mode, allowing you to control the software’s functions using the controller’s buttons, knobs, and jog wheels.
Check out our DJ Software page for links to download the most popular DJ programs directly to your device.
2. DJ software
A DJ controller is a hardware device that mimics the traditional DJ setup of turntables and a mixer, allowing DJs to mix and manipulate music using DJ software. It connects to a computer, laptop, or mobile device and provides physical controls like jog wheels, faders, knobs, and pads to adjust volume, EQ, effects, and transitions between tracks.
Most DJ controllers include built-in sound cards and interfaces for headphones and speakers, making them an all-in-one solution for beginner and professional DJs alike. Many controllers are designed to work seamlessly with specific DJ software like Rekordbox, Serato, Traktor, or Virtual DJ, often unlocking premium features when connected. DJ controllers range from beginner-friendly models with basic features to professional setups with advanced mixing capabilities.
Key Features of a DJ Controller:
Jog Wheels – Simulate vinyl scratching and track control.
Faders & Crossfader – Adjust volume levels and transition between songs.
EQ Knobs & Gain Controls – Fine-tune bass, mids, and treble for smooth mixes.
Performance Pads – Trigger effects, hot cues, loops, and samples.
Built-in Audio Interface – Connect directly to speakers and headphones.
3. Controller
Speakers are essential for a DJ because they allow you to accurately hear and control your mix, ensuring the best sound experience for your audience. Whether you're practicing at home, performing at a gig, or playing at an event, having the right speakers is crucial for proper sound output.
Key Reasons You Need Speakers as a DJ:
Live Sound Output – Your audience needs to hear your mix clearly, whether it's in a club, a party, or an event. Good speakers deliver powerful, high-quality sound that keeps people engaged and dancing.
Accurate Sound Monitoring – Studio monitors or DJ speakers help you hear every detail of your mix, including bass, mids, and treble, so you can fine-tune your transitions, EQ, and effects.
Syncing & Beatmatching – Having clear audio is crucial for beatmatching and making smooth transitions between tracks. Poor sound quality can make it harder to align beats properly.
Performance Feedback – Hearing your set through speakers gives you a true sense of how it sounds in the venue. Relying only on headphones can be misleading, as the actual output may differ.
Creating Energy & Atmosphere – A DJ’s job is to set the vibe and keep the energy going. High-quality speakers enhance the sound experience, ensuring your audience stays engaged.
4. Speakers
Headphones are an essential tool for DJs, allowing you to cue, beatmatch, and mix tracks seamlessly without disrupting the live music playing through the speakers. They provide precise audio monitoring, helping you transition smoothly between songs and maintain energy on the dancefloor.
Key Reasons You Need Headphones as a DJ:
Cueing Tracks – DJ headphones let you listen to the next track before playing it to the audience, ensuring smooth transitions.
Beatmatching – Accurately aligning the beats of two tracks is crucial for seamless mixing. Headphones help you hear both tracks simultaneously without interference from the main speakers.
Mixing Precision – Adjusting EQ, effects, and volume levels requires careful listening. High-quality headphones allow you to fine-tune your mix.
Noise Isolation – In loud environments like clubs and festivals, DJ headphones block out background noise, helping you focus on your mix.
Performance Monitoring – Headphones let you check how your set will sound before transitioning, preventing mistakes during live performances.
Live Feedback & Adjustments – Sometimes, the venue’s acoustics or speaker delay can affect what the audience hears. Monitoring through headphones helps you make real-time adjustments.
5. Headphones
Music is the foundation of DJing—without it, there's nothing to mix, remix, or perform. As a DJ, your role is to curate, blend, and manipulate tracks to create an engaging experience for your audience.
Key Reasons You Need Music as a DJ:
Creating Unique Sets – Your track selection defines your style and sets the mood, whether it’s a club night, festival, wedding, or private party.
Seamless Mixing & Transitions – DJing is about smoothly transitioning between songs to maintain energy and flow. Having a diverse music library ensures you can adapt to different vibes.
Crowd Engagement – Playing the right songs at the right time keeps the audience entertained and dancing. Reading the crowd and selecting tracks accordingly is a key DJ skill.
Experimentation & Creativity – Mixing different genres, adding effects, or creating mashups helps you develop your own sound and stand out as a DJ.
Preparedness for Any Gig – Different events require different music styles. Having a well-organized library ensures you can handle any request or switch genres when needed.
Professional Growth – The more music you have, the more versatile you become. Expanding your collection allows you to experiment with new styles and improve your skills.
6. Music
DJ courses can be incredibly valuable if you want to speed up your learning process. DJ courses provide a structured, comprehensive approach to mastering the craft, covering essential skills, techniques, and industry knowledge. Whether you're just starting out or aiming to level up, a course helps accelerate your progress and offers insights that self-teaching may overlook.
Key Benefits of Taking a DJ Course:
Structured Learning – Courses are designed to guide you step-by-step, ensuring you learn the foundational skills before advancing. You'll avoid the trial-and-error approach and gain a clear understanding of DJing fundamentals.
Expert Guidance – Learning from experienced instructors who have real-world DJing experience allows you to avoid common mistakes. They can provide tips, tricks, and shortcuts to improve your skills quickly.
Focus on Technique & Skills – A structured course will cover core DJing skills like beatmatching, cueing, mixing, EQing, and creating smooth transitions. You'll also learn how to read a crowd and adapt your set to different environments.
Networking Opportunities – Taking a course provides opportunities to meet other DJs, instructors, and industry professionals. Networking can lead to collaborations, gigs, or mentorship.
Confidence Building – With a solid understanding of DJing techniques and equipment, you’ll feel more confident in your skills. This confidence is key when performing live and dealing with crowds.
Music Theory & Set Building – Many courses also touch on music theory, helping you understand song structure, rhythm, and key. This knowledge enhances your ability to craft dynamic, engaging sets that captivate your audience.
DJing Etiquette & Professionalism – Courses teach you not only the technical side of DJing but also the professional side—how to behave at events, communicate with clients, and manage your brand.
Potential for Certification – Some DJ courses offer certification upon completion, which can boost your credibility and marketability as a DJ.