Mark Sparrow

Senior Contributor

Technology journalist specializing in audio, computing and photography.

Technics has joined forces with Lamborghini, the Italian automobile marque, to produce the … [+]TECHNICS

Have you ever fancied taking a Lamborghini for a spin? Well, you’re probably not on your own and now you can if you buy the latest product from Technics. The classic Japanese audio brand has joined forces with Lamborghini, the Italian automobile marque, to produce the SL-1200M7B, a special-edition turntable based on the Technics SL-1200MK7/SL-1210MK7 DJ models.

Since the launch of the original SL-1200 turntable, Technics has sold more than 3.5 million units of these robust turntables which have become a design classic. And despite coming from completely different markets, looking back on their approximately 60-year history, both Automobili Lamborghini and Technics believe they have more in common than you might think in terms of their approach to technology and innovation.

Although the SL-1200M7B is based on the SL-1200MK7/SL-1210MK7 models, its design is influenced by Lamborghini’s iconic Y-shape. The three colors used on the turntable are inspired by three iconic Lamborghini colors: Arancio Apodis, Verde Shock and Giallo Athon.

Anyone buying the SL-1200M7B will also receive an exclusive gift of a vinyl record featuring the powerful engine and driving sounds of five flagship V12 Lamborghinis, recorded specially for the project. The vinyl is also a picture disc with an image of a tire from Lamborghini’s latest model, the Revuelto.

The SL-1200M7B features a coreless direct drive motor with stable rotation that’s free of cogging and with a powerful torque. The turntable’s highly sensitive tonearm accurately tracks the signal engraved into the record’s groove. Meanwhile, the platter is a two-layer structure with improved vibration and damping performance.

The rigid cabinet of the SL-1200M7B also has a damping insulator to isolate vibrations, even when it’s used under harsh operating conditions. There is also an adjustment for the turntable’s starting torque and braking speed. Pitch control enables accurate and stable pitch adjustment, while the reverse play function makes the turntable ideal for DJ use. Finally, the stylus is illuminated with a long-life LED that has high-brightness levels.

There have never been more ways to make money as a DJ.
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Here’s a curated playlist of money-making moves that can boost your bank account on and off the decks:

• Event Promotion: Start hosting and promoting your own events. It’s not just about the music; it’s about creating unforgettable experiences that resonate with your audience.
• Custom Mixes: Whether it’s a high-energy gym session, a classy restaurant ambience, or the thrill of a basketball game, reach out to businesses & business owners to create bespoke mixes.
• DJ Drops and Freelance Gigs: Platforms like Fiverr offer a stage to sell unique DJ drops or custom soundtracks. You can see what’s working for others and build a service that will sell.
• Dive into music production. You don’t have to be Calvin Harris to make money from music production. You can make music for up-and-coming DJs or artists. Create royalty-free music & sound and license your sounds.
• Teach: Share your skills through tutorials or classes. Whether it’s 1-1 lessons or creating a Youtube channel, teaching can be just as profitable as entertainment.
• Gear Rental: Got extra equipment? Rent it out. Your idle gear could be someone else’s treasure, especially for those just starting their DJ journey or for DJs wanting to hire equipment for a private gig.
• Sell your vinyl: Flip old records for new revenue. Collect, curate, and cash in on your old collection.
• Digital Tips: Build a following on platforms like Mixcloud, where fans can tip you directly or pay a subscription to your exclusic
• Sell your mixes on USB drives. These can include exclusive DJ edits with intros and outros or unique mashups.
• Streaming: Live-stream your sessions on Twitch or TikTok to capture a wider audience and unlock sponsorship and collaboration opportunities

Click on picture above for more information from Crossfader

DJ Equipment
Building your first professional DJ setup can be a daunting task, especially if you are simply starting out as a DJ. To start on your journey to great beat mixes, it is important to consider numerous components before making any gear purchases.

With so many options for DJ equipment and software platforms nowadays, making informed decisions on which equipment to spend your hard-earned money on is a key step to building a professional DJ setup fit for your budget and skills. In this guide we walk you through what equipment you’ll need for your dj setup so you can feel confident in your purchases.

What are Different Types of DJ Setups?
There are several types of DJ setups you can choose from when first starting out. Some are streamlined and require less equipment than others. For the smallest possible setup, you can get started with just a laptop and the right software. Other simple options include using only two turntables (vinyl or CD) and a mixer.

You can upgrade either of those setups by adding a laptop with a DJ interface package for additional effects and options. For even greater flexibility, consider adding a DJ controller to your kit for built-in turntables, sliders, pads, and other controls. If you plan to work from MP3s rather than CDs or vinyl, you can get away with a small kit that features a laptop, a controller, an audio interface, and software.

What Types of Equipment Do You Need for Your DJ Setup
While the choice of equipment combinations differ among DJs, an essential setup for every DJ usually includes

Monitor speakers
Mixer
Turntables
Headphones
Vinyl records or a laptop computer
DJ software
One setup may not fit a certain style, so it is important to mix and match gear to find what works best for your musical selection and DJing style.

The amount of DJ equipment options can be somewhat overwhelming for a beginner, especially since choosing the equipment is crucial to creating quality sounds. There are however a number of essential gear that a DJ needs to make killer playlists and provide your audience with enjoyment.

Pioneer Electronics PL-30-K Audiophile Stereo Turntable with Dual-Layered Chassis and Built-In Phono Equalizer

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1. Input devices
Putting tunes together requires at least two input devices, which can either be turntables or CD decks. You can choose from a wide range of input devices that will allow you to mix tunes and mashup tracks without a pause in music.

Pros and Cons of Turntables
Vinyl turntables are the classic choice for a DJ setup, letting you incorporate plenty of classic tracks and achieve that authentic scratch sound. But vinyl is bulky and more expensive than the other options.

Pros and Cons of CD Decks
Most DJs already have plenty of CDs in their collection. Using CD decks can be a less expensive option, though you’ll lose the authentic scratch effect.

Best Input Devices for Beginner DJs
Stanton T.92 M2 USB Direct-Drive S-Arm USB Turntable ($299.00) is a professional-quality turntable that features a direct-drive motor and built-in USB connectivity. The turntable’s USB port allows for easy transferring of vinyl recordings to your Mac or PC. With features such as Pitch Control Fader with DSP Key Lock, you can control tempo without affecting pitch.

Another advanced feature of this turntable is its S-Shaped tone arm, which lowers distortion and reduces record wear.

Other recommended products:

Audio-Technica AT-LP60 Fully Automatic Stereo Turntable System ($99.00)
Numark TT250USB Professional DJ Direct Drive Turntable ($299.00)
Reloop RP-8000 Advanced Hybrid Torque Turntable with MIDI Control ($699.00)
Pioneer Electronics DJM-S9 2 Channel Battle Mixer for Serato DJ, Black

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2. Mixer
The mixer is the core part of any professional DJ setup. It is a type of audio mixing console that allows DJs to perform different effects and tricks. DJs use the mixer to make smooth transitions between different recordings while they are spinning a set. It can also be used to play record players.

The Pioneer Electronics DJM-2000 ($2,499.00) is a four-channel DJ mixer that features built-in instrument effects including Noise, Jet, Zip, Crush, HPF and LPF. It has a 5.8″ LCD touchscreen display that allows you to create new track slices through the mixer’s Beat Slice function.

Best Mixers for Beginner DJs
The mixer has four channels located on the sides of the center LCD which you can use to connect your turntables to other analog players. Each channel features a fader that allows you to adjust the channel volume, a trim control to adjust input level, and a CUE button dedicated to the pre-listen function in your headphones. The unit also features Delay, Multi-Tap Delay, Roll, Reverse Roll, and Filter and Phaser effects.

Other recommended products:

Pioneer Electronics DJM-S9 2 Channel Battle Mixer for Serato ($1,699.00)
Behringer DDM4000 Ultimate 5-Channel Digital DJ Mixer ($349.99)
Allen & Heath High Performance 2+2 Channel DJ Mixer ($299.00)
Sennheiser HD 25 Plus Closed-Back Monitor Headphones with Set of Ear Cushions

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3. Headphones
High-quality headphones allow DJs to listen, cue, and mix tunes with precision. It is one of the most important tools for determining the right timing to play songs rhythmically. The equipment you use is based on your preference, but it is important to consider comfort as one of the main factors in choosing your headphones. You’re going to be wearing headphones for hours on end, so you want to use a pair that not only reproduces sounds accurately, but is also comfortable to wear.

Another important factor to consider is flexibility. A good pair of DJ headphones does not easily break even when bended in different positions.

Best Headphones for DJs
Sennheiser HD 25 Plus Closed-Back Monitor Headphones ($199.95) is a lightweight headphone that provides high-quality audio. Its closed back design provides effective noise cancellation, making it ideal for use even in loud environments. It also features a rotatable ear cup for single-ear listening. The HD 25 Plus is capable of handling high sound pressure levels of up to 120 decibels, which allows it to perform well in loud environments.

Other recommended products:

Sony MDR-Z7 High-Resolution Stereo Closed Dynamic Headphones ($699.99)
Sennheiser HD 600 Audiophile Dynamic Hi-Fi Professional Stereo Headphone ($288.00)
Samson SR850 Professional Studio Reference Headphones ($49.99)
JBL 2x 305P MkII Powered 5 Dual 41W Two-Way Studio Monitor W:2x 8mm XLR Cable

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4. Sound system
Using studio monitor speakers is a great way for beginner DJs to hear their mixes with clarity. While Hi-Fi speakers produce high-quality sounds compared with inexpensive audio equipment, they also amplify certain frequencies that can make it difficult for beginner DJs to hear what the mix actually sounds like.

Keep in mind, however, that this is an optional element of the ideal basic DJ setup. When you start playing gigs, you’ll find that most venues will have their own sound system that you can use. However, if you’re still learning and you want a good sound system for your home DJ setup, go ahead and invest in your own.

Best Sound System for your DJ Setup
Mackie CR4 4″ Woofer Creative Reference Multimedia Monitor ($149.99) delivers studio-quality audio performance ideal for multimedia creation and entertainment. It features 50 watts of articulate stereo sound, as well as premium and high-performing components such as sound-enhancing waveguide system.

The Mackie CR4 features a front panel volume knob, and auxiliary input for easier access.

Other recommended products:

KRK Rokit 5 G3 5″ Two-Way Active Studio Monitor Speaker ($149.50)
JBL 5″ Two-Way Powered Studio Monitor ($149.00)
Behringer MS16 2-Way Active Nearfield Multimedia Monitor System ($79.99)
Roland DJ-202 2-Channel 4-Deck Serato DJ Controller W:Behringer Headphones:Cable

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5. Controller
Most modern DJs opt for a simpler (and easier) digital setup composed of a controller and a laptop. If you no longer use vinyl records or CDs, then purchasing a controller is really the only step you need to take to create a viable DJ setup.

Controllers essentially mimic the function of turntables and mixers. They allow for easier manipulation of their chosen DJ software. It allows you to mix music through the software with the use of knobs, encoders, jog wheels, faders, assignable backlit buttons, touch strips, and other control components.

The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 DJ Controller ($599.00) is a portable, all-in-one option for digital DJs who want high functionality and usability along with ease of use. Its components include silicone-damped jog wheels with premium aluminum plates, a built-in 24 bit/96 kHz soundcard, two customizable FX units with over 30 DJ effects, brightly colored RGB triggers, and a 4-channel mixer with faders, Flux Mode, and Loop Recorder controls. It also comes with the Traktor Pro 2 software.

Other recommended products:

Pioneer Electronics DDJ-SX2 4-Channel Performance Serato DJ Controller ($997.00)
Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 DJ Controller ($199.99)
Novation Dicer Cue Point & Looping Digital DJ Controller ($99.99)
How Much Does a Beginner DJ Setup Cost?
The cost of beginner DJ setups can range from just a few hundred dollars to a couple thousand dollars. The price of your kit depends on the type of equipment you choose. If you already own a laptop and plan to use a simplified computer-based setup, you can get away with purchasing only a basic controller and some headphones for less than $500. If you start from scratch, prepare to spend a bit more to build out your kit.

Check out some of the preferred equipment below for a specific idea of how much you can expect to spend.

Sample DJ Setups For Beginners Based on Cost
Setups vary widely among DJs. The equipment comprising a complete setup depends on each DJ’s personal preference and musical style.

Here is a sample setup for beginners who want the classic turntable setup:

Two turntables (with built-in slipmats)
DJ mixer
Headphones
USB/audio interface (optional)
Monitor speakers (optional)
1. Numark PT01USB Turntable ($99.00)
The Numark PT01USB is a portable, AC or battery-powered turntable that converts vinyl to WAV or MP3. It makes recording and importing audio simple through the EZ Vinyl Converter 2 for PC and Audio Converter for Mac software that is included in the turntable.

Features:

USB connection and USB cable
Belt-drive motor
Protective dust cover with carrying handle
AC adapter
Built-in speaker
RCA connector and headphone jacks
45 RPM adapter
DJ cartridges
2. Behringer DJX750 Professional 5-Channel DJ Mixer ($199.99)
With its fairly affordable price point, the Behringer DJX-750 is an attractive option for beginners who are building their first DJ setups. But don’t let the price fool you—this 5-channel mixer has the features and functions required to serve the needs of professionals as well.

Features:

24-Bit effects processor
Tactile effects control
Two automatic BPM counters with time and beat sync display
45mm VCA-controlled crossfader
3-way frequency kill switches
Adjustable XPQ stereo surround effect
3. Sennheiser HD 600 ($288.00)
The Sennheiser HD 600 is an audiophile-grade headphone that features a dynamic design. It is one of the best headphones for DJs (and even professional sound engineers) as it features advanced technology that allows it to reproduce accurate, high-quality sound, allowing you to hear notes in perfect clarity.

Features:

Open metal mesh grilles
Magnet systems that reduce harmonic and intermodulation distortion
Lightweight aluminum voice coils
Neodymium magnet material for excellent dynamic response
Oxygen-free copper cable
Detachable headphone cord
Rent or Buy?
Renting a wide range of DJ equipment is the best option for DJs who do not have the budget to purchase all the gear they need. This is particularly advantageous for those who are just starting out in developing their skills as a DJ and may not want to invest a large amount on professional equipment until they feel more confident in their skills and are ready to start booking gigs.

Aside from saving on the cost of purchasing new gear, you won’t have to worry about performing regular maintenance on the equipment. Another advantage of renting is that you will be able to try out different brands (for a fraction of the cost) and see which ones you like best before taking the plunge and buying the gear you want.

On the other hand, buying brand new decks and mixers has its advantages. Aside from allowing you to create a fully customized DJ setup that suits your needs, most equipment usually come with manufacturer’s warranties. The obvious downside is the price, but if you are serious about your craft, it is definitely a worthwhile investment.

Knowing how to market your music is without a doubt THE most important thing you can do for your music business and your music career as a whole. You know it’s something that must be handled and if you’re not making efforts to learn how to market your music more effectively then you should know that, at the very least, nothing serious will ever happen in your music business career.

The first thing to ask yourself is whether or not you’re currently managing the most basic elements of an effective music marketing campaign.

What do I mean by this?

To begin it’s important to assess where you’re at right now and determine whether or not you know and understand exactly what the basic components of an effective music marketing campaign are? Let’s face it, if you plan on making a name for yourself in the music industry it’s important to realize you’ll be investing a lot of your personal time and money into your music career. If you’re certain your absolute goal is to mold your music talents into a true “music business” and you have no doubts about the career path you’ve chosen… then you’ll want to be as efficient and productive as you can possibly be.

Most indie bands and musicians whether from the Rock, Hip Hop, Folk or any genre for that matter, tend to work on only one or two of the three essential requirements of effective music marketing. For instance most musicians are great at connecting with audiences. What with Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube in the mix, communications have become stupid simple for today’s musician.

On the other hand, asking for the sale is occasionally handled effectively but tends to be approached hap-hazardly and without a formula or the necessary accompanying awareness campaigns. This lack-luster approach tends to dampen the efforts of even the hardest working bands and musicians in the industry. Unfortunately, applying only one or even two of these key components without the essential third element in a music marketing campaign won’t bring in maximum returns for the time invested. This just isn’t how to market music effectively.

Don’t get me wrong, getting your name out there and partaking in conversations with fans can be cool, even self gratifying and it’s definitely better than not doing anything at all, but imagine how much more effective you’d be if you went to work on all of these essential marketing aspects of your music business armed with a formula and a pin-point focused purpose.

The Solution To Ineffective Music Marketing

The bottom line is that when you break down the ins and outs on how to market your music effectively, it becomes apparent that as a musician, it’s important to discipline yourself to focus on the elements that are most productive for your music business growth. Broken down in an easy to follow process these elements of music marketing and music promotion essentially consist of a 3 step formula:

Step #1 – Create Awareness: Find an audience who appreciates your music style, your sound and your identity. Take the steps necessary to communicate your musical message to them. Everything you do should create an awareness for you and your music at all times. Approach this with precision and a firm direction and your music business foundation will be solidified for years to come.

Step #2 – Connect with Your Audience: I mentioned earlier how stupid simple it is to connect with fans today. Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and the many other online “hangouts” make this process a breeze. Once you’ve laid the initial groundwork and you’ve made your audience aware of exactly what you have to offer, work on maintaining those important on-going relationships with your fans, the media and the all important music business contacts you collect along the way. Your fans and contacts want to know that you’re for real. That you care about them. That you’re here for the long-haul. Making connections with them and keeping them involved in your growth process will ensure this happens for you.

Step #3 – Sell Your Stuff (Ask for the sale): This one is essential. If you don’t have products to sell… you DON’T have a music business. Working to create a steady, consistent cash flow for your music business is paramount to your long-term success. Entice fans to spend their money and buy your stuff and the rest of your music marketing processes will flow and flourish so much easier.

Yes! It’s Easier Said Than Done

I recognize that it’s easier to talk about these things than it is to make them happen in your career but this is what the music business is all about so incorporating these processes into your music business campaign is a must, or you simply won’t last long enough to make dent in the music world.

And that’s not what we want for your music career… is it?

Again, it might seem easy enough to map these things out on paper but the truth is that most bands and musicians will find a hundred and one ways to screw this up.

You’ll either spend too much time on creating awareness and connecting with your audience but then fail to ask for the sale. Or you’ll ask for the sale way to often and forget about connecting with your people. I mentioned earlier that it’s cool to get all gung-ho, get busy, and head on out there and do a bunch of music marketing, but if you’re not touching all three elements of this process on how to market music, then you’re missing the boat and more importantly… you’re fans won’t be “feeling” your vibe. They just won’t connect with you on a deeper level. Without connection, there’s no sales and without sales, you don’t have a music business.