The 7 Most Popular DJ Set-Ups Today

When you’re working as a DJ, your set-up can be an integral component of your ability to perform. As the industry of music creation has grown and technology has opened up the world of DJing to professional and amateur artists alike, the options out there can be overwhelming for people.

Knowing the right set-up for you is more about knowing what works for you in particular than choosing simply the most popular option out there. Having said that, DJ set-ups have developed and are designed to maximise productivity, supercharge creativity and ensure efficiency. To that end, there are various popular DJ set-up ‘styles’ that are tried, tested and proven.

In this article, we’ll introduce you to these different options to help you find the one that works best for you. 

What is a DJ Set-Up?

DJ set-ups refer to the collection and array of equipment, computers and tools. This gear, including turntables, DCJs, mixers and controllers, is essential for a DJ to perform and mix music. They vary not just by the various parts and components, but also by the venue, objective and, of course, personal preference.

A DJ set-up at home, for example, may not be quite as elaborate as a studio set-up but is likely to be more permanent than that at a club for a short-lived live gig. 

Factors to Consider

1.Venue

The venue makes a huge difference to how a DJ sets up. The size and acoustics can be contributing factors, as are the types of equipment and furniture available.

2.Budget

Price is a huge factor affecting a DJ’s set-up. One’s budget can determine the quality, size, type and quantity of equipment being used.

3.Genre

Music is extremely varied. Different genres may require different types of equipment, different styles of performances or just different set-ups full stop.

4.Audience

Much like genre and venue, different audiences require or expect their DJs to perform in different ways. Your set-up should take into consideration the purpose and goal of performing in front of that particular crowd.

5.Personal Preference

Last but not least is your personal preference. If you’re just starting out, you may not know what suits you best and will need to experiment with different setups. If you’re more experienced, you’ll probably have a better understanding of what does and doesn’t work for you. 

 

7 Most Popular DJ Set-Ups

1.Turntables and Mixer

Turntables are a classic staple of a DJ set-up. Many DJs, despite progression in technology, still rely on turntables for that tactile and analog experience. Of course, for those musicians who prefer using vinyl records, a turntable is invaluable.

Advantages

• Classic feel and look of the set-up.
• Tactile in nature and feel.
• Complements beat juggling and scratching.
• Allows for a high-quality sound output.
• Suits those who are nostalgic for DJ trends of the past.

Disadvantages

• Requires more maintenance than other set-ups.
• Can be expensive.
• More suitable for DJs using vinyl records.

2.Decks and Mixer

As the 21st Century’s answer to turntables, this digital alternative is widely used by DJs to mix and manipulate tracks in the form of digital music files.

Advantages

• Practical elements of turntables are digitised.
• Wide range of features available for mixing.
• Can be used with multiple formats of music files.
• High-quality output of sound.

Disadvantages

• Digital files reduce the tactile experience.
• Requires more skill and knowledge of manipulating different music file formats and using different digital software. 

3.Standalone Consoles

Standalone Consoles are a great option for beginning and amateur DJs wanting a more streamlined set-up for this music-making. Considered an all-in-one solution, the standalone console combines both the elements and features of a mixer with that of a controller.

Advantages

• Single solution for two types of traditional equipment.
• Most models are lightweight and easy to travel with.
• Often a more affordable option.
• User-friendly for new DJs.

Disadvantages

• Technological design makes it less tactile, even compared to CDJs.
• Not as durable as other pieces of hardware.
• Can only be used with digital music tracks and files.

4.Laptop and Mixer

Another popular set-up for DJs is the mixer and laptop combo. While you’ll need DJ software on the laptop itself, using a mixer in combination with the computer makes the experience of creating and mixing music smoother, more intuitive and faster. 

Advantages

• Easy to use for DJs of all experience levels.
• Easy to carry around and lightweight.
• Provides high levels of control and personalisation.
• Can be used with various software options.
• Can be used with other digital and analog equipment.

Disadvantages

• Requires knowledge of music file formats.
• Requires familiarity with the chosen software.
• Can take time to set up.
• Not as tactile a mixing experience as other options. 

5.The Hybrid

A hybrid DJ set-up makes the most of both worlds by combining analog and digital equipment, such as a vinyl record-playing turntable and a controller for mixing digital track files.

Advantages

• Benefits from advantages of both analog and digital approaches. 
• Can be used with vinyl records and digital tracks.
• Very portable and easy to carry around.

Disadvantages

• Requires more set-up effort and time
• Can be an expensive set-up as more equipment is needed.

6.Mobile

Last, but certainly not least, we have the Mobile DJ Set-Up. Understandably, mobile DJ set-ups are designed for DJs who are on the move a lot, on the road and primarily perform in clubs and at events. Designed to be compact and easy to pack up and set up, it’s ideal for anyone looking for practicality and simplicity. 

Advantages

• Very easy to pack up and carry around.
• Quick set-up.
• Can be very affordable and easy for beginning DJs to use.
• Can incorporate either vinyl records, digital music files or both.

Disadvantages

• May not offer as many mixing features as more permanent set-ups.
• May have restrictions over the types of gear used and customisation.
• May require additional equipment for particular venues or larger performances. 

Your Dream Set-Up Awaits at DJ City

Choosing the right DJ set-up starts with finding the best provider of all things DJ equipment. Whatever set-up you’re thinking of and no matter what your personal preferences are, make sure to check out our online store. 

 

We’re Australia’s largest superstore for all things DJ set-ups! Start browsing today.