Are you ready to take your DJing skills to the next level?
Then it’s time to invest in a turntable mixer setup.
But before you start spinning tracks, it’s important to understand how to properly use your equipment.
From connecting your turntables and CDJs to setting up your headphones and speakers, there are a lot of components to consider.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of using a turntable mixer like a pro.
So grab your headphones and let’s get started!
How To Use A Turntable Mixer
First things first, let’s talk about connecting your turntables and CDJs to your mixer.
For record vinyl turntables, use the RCA cables to connect the mixer in the PHONO input. This is because the analogue signals on record vinyl turntables are weaker than CDJs and the PHONO input gives the signal a boost. On the other hand, for CDJs, connect the RCA cables to the LINE input on the left-hand side of the PHONO connections. The LINE connection is used for CDJs because the signal does not need a boost like the PHONO does.
It’s important to note that if you plug a turntable into the incorrect input, you may hear distortion of sound. So make sure to double-check before you start playing your tracks.
Next, let’s talk about connecting your speakers. If you plan on playing in clubs or other venues that already have speakers, then you won’t need to worry about getting your own speakers. But if you’re playing in smaller venues or at home, you’ll need to invest in a high-quality pair of speakers.
Now let’s move on to headphones. You’ll need a good pair of headphones to cue up the next track while the current one is still playing. This allows you to sync them up and make sure everything sounds seamless. Look for headphones specifically designed for DJing purposes and with features like noise isolation and comfortable ear cups.
When it comes to using your mixer, it’s important to assign the crossfader to the correct channels. This allows you to mix from the channels that you are playing music from and which the turntable or CDJ is set up.
Finally, let’s talk about preamplifiers. Every hifi amplifier that is intended to work with a turntable has one. There are many outboard examples available too. A preamplifier is necessary because of how vinyl record technology works – low-frequency content caused the groove to swing widely from side to side. If the bass was cut at full level, the turns of the groove couldn’t be packed tightly enough to get a reasonable playing duration per side. An inverse filter must be used on playback to correct for this, otherwise, the bass end will be very light.
Understanding The Basics Of A Turntable Mixer Setup
When it comes to setting up your turntable mixer, there are a few basic things you need to know. Firstly, you’ll need two turntables or CDJs to start with. It’s recommended to invest in good quality DJ turntables like the Pioneer Pro DJ PLX-1000.
Next, you’ll need a mixer to connect the turntables to. The mixer gives you control over the effects, EQ, volume, and the different audio channels. There are plenty of affordable mixers on the market to choose from. When connecting your turntables or CDJs to the mixer, make sure to use the correct input – PHONO for turntables and LINE for CDJs.
You’ll also need a pair of DJ quality headphones for cueing up the next track while the current one is still playing. Look for headphones specifically designed for DJing purposes and with features like noise isolation and comfortable ear cups.
Finally, it’s important to assign the crossfader to the correct channels on your mixer. This allows you to mix from the channels that you are playing music from and which the turntable or CDJ is set up.
It’s also worth noting that preamplifiers are necessary when working with turntables. Every hifi amplifier that is intended to work with a turntable has one, and there are many outboard examples available too. A preamplifier is necessary because of how vinyl record technology works – low-frequency content causes the groove to swing widely from side to side. If the bass was cut at full level, the turns of the groove couldn’t be packed tightly enough to get a reasonable playing duration per side. An inverse filter must be used on playback to correct for this, otherwise, the bass end will be very light.
By following these basic steps and understanding how a turntable mixer setup works, you’ll be ready to start mixing and creating your own unique sound.
Connecting Your Turntables And CDJs To The Mixer
One of the most important steps in using a turntable mixer is connecting your turntables and CDJs to the mixer. It’s crucial to ensure that you’re plugging them into the correct inputs to avoid any distortion or sound issues.
For turntables, use RCA cables to connect them to the PHONO input. This input boosts the weaker analogue signal from the turntable. For CDJs, connect them to the LINE input on the left-hand side of the PHONO connections. This input doesn’t require a signal boost like the PHONO does.
It’s important to double-check that you’ve plugged your turntables and CDJs into the correct inputs to avoid any sound issues. Once they’re connected, you can assign the crossfader to the correct channels and start mixing your tracks.
Don’t forget about your speakers and headphones. If you’re playing in smaller venues or at home, invest in a high-quality pair of speakers. For headphones, look for ones specifically designed for DJing with features like noise isolation and comfortable ear cups.
In addition, keep in mind that preamplifiers are necessary for turntables because of how vinyl record technology works. A preamplifier is used to correct for low-frequency content caused by the groove swinging widely from side to side. Make sure you have a preamplifier in place to ensure your bass end isn’t too light.
Adjusting The Levels And EQ Settings
Now that you have your turntables and mixer set up correctly, it’s time to start adjusting the levels and EQ settings to get the best sound possible.
First, let’s talk about gain staging. This is the process of setting the correct levels for each stage of your DJ set-up. You’ll want to start by setting the gain on each channel of your mixer. The gain controls the volume of the input signal and you’ll want to make sure that each channel is set to a similar level. If one channel is too loud, it can cause distortion and affect the overall sound quality.
Next, you’ll want to adjust the EQ settings on each channel. The three-band EQ on your mixer controls the low, mid, and high frequencies. You can use these controls to cut or boost certain frequencies to create a more balanced sound. For example, if you’re playing a track with a lot of bass, you may want to cut the bass on another track to prevent them from clashing.
It’s important to remember that EQing is subjective and what sounds good to one person may not sound good to another. Experiment with different EQ settings until you find a sound that works for you.
Another important aspect of adjusting levels and EQ settings is monitoring your mix through headphones. Use your headphones to cue up the next track and make sure that it sounds good with the current track playing. You can adjust the levels and EQ settings on the new track before bringing it into the mix.
Using Headphones For Cueing And Beatmatching
Using headphones for cueing and beatmatching is an essential skill for any DJ. It allows you to preview and sync up your tracks before introducing them to the live mix, ensuring a seamless transition between songs.
To successfully use headphones for mixing, you’ll need to pay attention to the following controls on your mixer:
1. Headphone Cue Mix: This can come in the form of a knob or a crossfader. Essentially, you use it for cueing and equalizing (EQ) the songs, and for controlling which channel plays which song. If the knob or crossfader is in the central position, you can hear all the channels equally well. If you move it to the left or right, you’ll predominantly hear that channel. You can use this feature to isolate a channel for cueing and for mixing – listen when the songs start to get in sync, then slowly move the knob/crossfader, thus making a seamless mix.
2. Cue Buttons: With cue buttons, you can select the channels you need for playing, mixing, and cueing your tracks. High-end mixers even have some additional channels meant for special effects, but more often than not, the basic setting is all you need.
3. Headphone Volume Control: This feature allows you to control the volume of the song being played in your headphones without affecting the master volume of the main speakers.
Once you have set up your mixer and headphones, it’s time to start practicing with them. There are three scenarios where you should practice with your headphones:
1. Both Ear Mode: Disable split mode and put the headphones on your head to cover both ears. Set cue/mix to a level where you can hear both tracks equally, most likely 100%. Beatmatch as you did in the tutorials without headphones.
2. Split Headphone Mode: Enable split mode so one ear hears the cued track and the other ear hears the live track. Some people find this easier to beatmatch as they can distinguish the beats better.
3. Split Live Mode: Enable split mode. Keep the headphone on the ear with the cued track and take it off the other ear (some headphones have an adjustable piece that makes this easy). The idea is that you listen to the live track through the main speakers in the room. For this to work, you need to set the headphone level high enough that both tracks sound equally loud.
Remember that there is no right or wrong way to use headphones for cueing and beatmatching – it’s all about finding what works best for you. By practicing with different scenarios and experimenting with your mixer’s settings, you’ll become more comfortable with using headphones as an essential tool in your DJing arsenal.
Setting Up Your Speakers For Optimal Sound Quality
Now that you have connected your turntables and mixer, it’s time to set up your speakers for optimal sound quality. The first thing to consider is the placement of your speakers. It’s important to place them at ear level and at an equal distance from where you will be standing. This will help ensure that the sound is evenly distributed throughout the room.
Next, make sure to position your speakers away from walls and corners. This will help prevent any unwanted reflections or bass buildup that can distort the sound. If possible, try to position your speakers on stands or shelves instead of directly on the floor.
It’s also important to invest in high-quality speakers that are specifically designed for DJing purposes. Look for speakers with a frequency response that covers the full range of human hearing, from 20Hz to 20kHz. This will ensure that you can hear all the details in your music, from the deep bass to the crisp highs.
Another important factor to consider is the amplifier that you use with your speakers. A good amplifier should be able to deliver enough power to your speakers without distorting the sound. Look for an amplifier with a high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and a low total harmonic distortion (THD) rating.
Finally, make sure to use high-quality cables to connect your speakers to your mixer or amplifier. Poor quality cables can introduce noise and interference into your signal, which can degrade the sound quality. Look for cables with thick shielding and connectors that are gold-plated or made from high-quality materials.
By following these tips, you can set up your speakers for optimal sound quality and ensure that you get the most out of your turntable mixer setup.
Tips For Smooth Transitions And Creative Mixing Techniques
Smooth transitions are crucial for DJs to keep their audience grooving and entertained without interrupting the flow. Here are some tips for smooth transitions and creative mixing techniques:
1. Beatmatching: Match the beats of two or more tracks by tempo and phrases. This will allow you to transition smoothly between tracks.
2. Harmonic Mixing: Use musical keys that have relationships with each other. Two songs that are from the same key will generally work in harmony together, resulting in minimal clashes between them when mixed. DJ software like Serato and Rekordbox offers key analysis so you can instantly organize tracks that are from the same or similar keys.
3. Creative Effects: Experiment with any creative effects that your equipment has to offer. Some DJs use the echo and delays on the mixer to make creative transitions, while others use the pads on their controllers to load samples on-the-fly.
4. Reduce Punch Sound: Apply some effects like Beatmasher, Flanger, Gater, or iceverb to reduce the punch sound in your incoming track. After that, fade in the loop with a slow pace around 50% during the time between 16 – 32 beats.
5. Increase Frequencies: Lastly, increase the low, mid, and high frequencies, and reduce the effects to complete the mix using your digital DJ equipment.
Remember, the best mixes are achieved through a symbiotic relationship between the audience and the DJ. Always focus on the benefit of the crowd and take them where you want with the music. Keep practicing and recording your sets to find what works while you develop your own style. Once you’ve mastered these tips, you can tackle more advanced DJ mixing techniques such as infinite loop mixing, tempo transition mix, and how to use FX effects.
