How to DJ With a Laptop

With all the new technology, a DJ has many new tools, so an up-and-coming jockey should know how to DJ with a laptop . A DJ with a laptop has many outstanding advantages to one with a simple turntable or stereo components. Imagine the ability to show videos and select from a huge variety of musical choices with just a push of a bottom. Some will even offer karaoke, with programs that allow for lyrics to show on a display while the music plays. To experience this, you have to have the right equipment.

To DJ with a laptop, make sure your computer has these features:

• Two separate stereo audio outputs
• External ports
• Internal mixer, or mixer inside the software
• Multi-channel sound card
• large internal hard drive

A DJ with a laptop set up with all these features will find it easy to start using their laptop as the beginnings of a mobile sound studio. Unfortunately, that is not all the investment needed. There are several other components needed to successfully DJ with a laptop:

• External mixer
• 500 GB external drive
• Solid surge-protector strip
• Ground-lift adapters
• Duct tape

Even though your laptop is going to be the head of the system, it must be versatile enough to fit many settings. Once you have the set up and location figured out, you can start piecing your system together. It may differ a little depending on how the club you're going to play is set up, but this is a simple basic set up.

1. External hard drive Since your mixing program takes much of your memory space, it is good to start with an external hard drive. Store your music, videos, and play list on this unit. Use a high-grade firewire to connect the external hard drive to the laptop for a good, clean signal speed.
2. Internal mixer Your internal mixer is important. It is also good to have an external mixer for the DJ booth to allow more flexibility. It is important to be able to manually fade tracks, smooth out audio signals and more.
3. Ground-lift adapter To set up the power for your system, remember to include the ground-lift adapter to prevent hum from the power usage. Hook the system into your power strip for your protection as well as the club's protection.
4. Hook ups Hook up the proper connections from the club's sound system into your system, as your system will use their speakers.
5. Duct tape Finally, tape any wires that may be bumped loose by fans or even you. This will prevent any disruptions in the show.

Your now ready to provide a night of entertainment for a group of friends at a paid venue. This is just a basic system to DJ with a laptop; if you find and incorporate more things, you can make your show even better.