On a Monday night in early March, forty DJs converged on the corporate headquarters of Denon DJ in NJ to share ideas that would help shape the future of equipment manufactured for the disc jockey market. In addition, several of Denon’s newest products were on display for attendees to try out.
Both club and mobile jocks attended the event, including some notables in our industry such as Marcello Pedalino, Jason Jani and Rick “DJ Flip” Sajorda. Several participants traveled two to four hours to be present.
The technology-focused discussion group, led by Senior Vice President, Paul Mathis with assistance from Brand Manager, Silvio Zeppieri, showed participants that their opinions really matter. Everyone in attendance seemed very impressed by Denon’s commitment to listening to their customers.
Always on the lookout for nuggets of useful information, Cosmic Entertainment’s Brian DeRiancho appreciated the opportunity to attend the event. “It’s refreshing to see a company that not only listens to its end users’ input but so desires to hear from them that they graciously host a well-appointed forum to give voice to our ideas and suggestions.”
Mathis used a Power Point presentation to focus the two-hour discussion group on answering specific questions about DJs preferences related to table-top versus rack-mounted gear, technology solutions, and price points. Hands flew up in the air as participants eagerly shared their opinions and ideas. By the end of the evening, it was clear that DJs are willing to spend big bucks on high-quality gear IF it has the features they need and want.
Marshall Moore of Elite Entertainment in Eatontown, NJ, really enjoyed the experience. “I learned a lot about what gear other DJs are using. I think the format and structure of the group really worked well and the size was perfect so that everyone was able to participate. It was especially nice to see some faces that I knew from the Industry and to hear their thoughts.”
Denon Artist Rick “DJ Flip” Sajorda with DJ & Author Stacy Zemon
Rick “DJ Flip” Sajorda of DJ Flip Entertainment agrees. “I was happy to see Denon reaching out to DJs and it was interesting to hear various opinions on gear preference. As a mobile and scratch DJ, and a turntablist, I’m glad that they produce digital turntables like the DN-S3700 and mixers like the DN-X1700 and DN-X1600 that allow me to perform the way I need to.
According to Zeppieri, “We were extremely pleased with the turnout, and the honest and helpful comments that were given by participants. The event was recorded so that we can carefully review the feedback and discuss it with our Japanese engineers and senior management.”
As a “thank you” to participants, Denon had the event catered with a hot buffet and gave away goody bags filled with company merchandise and an iTunes gift card. Hawaiian native Gary Bonaducci from Upper Darby, PA was the lucky winner of a DN-X1600 Digital Mixer valued at $999. I had the privilege of helping Denon bring people together for the focus group and also gave away copies of my new book, “The Mobile DJ MBA,” to three attendees who correctly answered Denon trivia questions.
By continuing its commitment to mobile DJ entertainers and bringing innovative new products to market, Denon is positioned to lead the way in manufacturing the equipment that shapes the future of technology for our industry.
