by Jerry Bazata- “Money Answer Man”
I have finally come to the realization that I must place my beloved CD collection on the shelf next to my vinyl records, and embrace digital technology as my new music library.
As I have learned in speaking with other Mobile DJs who are in the same process, going digital is more difficult than expected.
I have scoured the internet for the right software, controller, interface, laptop, etc. to the point where, frankly, I’ve become both confused and scared.
Have You Experienced My Dilemma?
If you’ve experienced my dilemma and found your way to the answers, your thoughts and ideas can help me make the right decisions.
Here are my main questions:
- What is the best brand of laptop with the appropriate ram and memory to hold a library of both music and videos for me to purchase? Please be specific about driver and processor specifications.
- What is the best software to load onto the laptop, so that I can beat mix and edit during a show just like I do with my good old CD collection?
- What is the best controller or interface? Note: I have been a diehard Pioneer fan and began spinning on the old (I mean really old) CD500, and still have my original CDJ 1000 that I purchased back in 2002.
- What am I missing in the decision process?
A Great Place to be Heard
Your thoughts and recommendations will not only be helpful to me but on behalf of the countless Mobile DJs facing this overwhelming transition, along with those just starting out.
Please post your comments on Pro Mobile DJs Facebook page. I’m sure many DJs beside me would like to know your opinion.
Jerry,
Glad to see you on the verge of joining the "Digital Revolution"....
Let me address your questions point by point base on my own experiences:
1) Best Brand of Laptop? Most DJs swear by MacBooks, and if you have the budget, go for it! I have been using a 17" Dell Studio series with a lit-up keyboard for several years, 500 GB internal hard drive solely to spin audio. I do not use this computer for any other purpose than for music, and removed other programs and shut off automatic updates. I used this computer for 125 gigs in 2011, and did not experience any laptop crashes. If you're mixing video, you are going to need a lot more real estate on your internal hard drive, at least 1 TB. 2) I prefer Serato Scratch Live.... it gives you tools to perform a perfect mix, but does not have an auto-sync function- I actually like this. Virtual DJ is a more user-friendly program with an auto-sync feature, but I have personally found it is not as stable as Serato, and occasionally freezes up. Doing a lot of weddings, I prefer not take this chance. Virtual DJ is however particularly convenient for bar and club gigs, where you can easily switch between audio, video and karaoke. Related to the specs questions, see Serato's minimum recommended specs here: http://serato.com/scratchlive. It also discusses particular processors that are recommended. 3) I love my Rane TTM-57SL mixer (with Serato functionality built-in) along with a pair of Pioneer CDJs. The mixer is solid as a tank and has never let me down. 4) What are you missing? Digital controllers are a dime a dozen. I personally feel its worth it to pay a premium for quality, as you will benefit from a superior product that takes care of you for many years out in the field. There is no "golden bullet" out there... you need to learn your "instrument" and unleash its powers in time. Go for it! Good luck! Gregg Hollmann, Ambient DJ Service
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