One of the most appealing things about the huge selection of DJ equipment for digital DJs is that you can combine different pieces of equipment in any way you like to create the perfect DJ kit for you. You can set up your own combo of equipment to get the right sound in the most convenient way for your particular DJ style.

With the addition of the Denon DN-SC2000 to the market, plenty of digital DJs are already looking at how to utilize it without a complicated kit. But if you think the SC2000 is just pretty buttons and knobs, think again.

Keep reading this Denon DN-SC2000 review to find out how you can make this work for you.

Solo Deck

Unless you’re blind, the first thing that gets attention with this controller is that it just has one deck. This is probably one of the most appealing features in a world of two deck DJ controllers, because it makes travelling easy.

More than that however, this particular controller comes with a sound card so you won’t have to make an additional investment in one. But what really as the DJ world raving about the Denon DN-SC2000 is that you can control the software without using old school methods like a mouse or keyboard. Whether you have Virtual DJ or Traktor Pro, or any other software for that matter, you can control it on the machine.

But if you think fewer decks means less control, think again. It would be better to say this is a two-in-one deck than simply calling it a single deck because it controls 2 decks. All you need to do is hit the ‘deck switch’ button and the backlight (yes backlight) will change colors so you always know which deck you’re using. This will be especially handy for working DJ’s spinning magic in dark clubs.

Plus, this means that you can do your whole set with just one DJ controller.

It’s Got Body

If you’re expecting a toy product because it’s small and brightly colored, think again. The Denon DN-SC2000 is lightweight but it is also quite sturdy. This compact machine is cased in steel and clocks in a just over a couple pounds so you don’t have to worry about lugging around heavy equipment from gig to gig.

The dimensions make this DJ controller seem pocket-sized compared to some of the bulkier controllers on the market. With dimensions like this—6.7” x 1.7” x 8.6”—you’d expect clunky buttons and knobs but it’s just the opposite. This DJ controller has excellent jog wheel quality and the pitch fader is long throw so it all just feels and works, right.

This is a well-built single deck machine that includes 3 FX, 8 cues and good parameter control not to mention an on-board navigation of the music library. There are plenty of additional features, so don’t feel like smaller means inferior.

You’re probably thinking that you have no use for a single deck DJ controller, right? After all any reputable DJ needs 2 decks at least, and downgrading seems counter-intuitive to your DJ instincts.

The truth is that there are some instances in which a product like the Denon DN-SC2000 is just what you need.

Small Hardware

If you’re a DJ who is perfectly content to keep using his laptop with the keyboard shortcuts, then this would be a good piece of hardware for you to keep your DJ skills fresh by having access to some hands-on features. When combined with your laptop, you’ll add just a few pounds to your kit weight, but have more control and more features to work with.

Other DJs who might find the SC2000 useful are those who often work in cramped quarters. Small bars or house parties that don’t have designated DJ booths may just throw you in a corner not big enough for any significant equipment. In this case you’ll want and need something small enough to carry but with enough features to allow you a good performance, which is the Denon DN-SC2000.

More, More, More

If you have a DJ controller that makes you happy but it has one drawback: just 2 control decks, then this machine can give you 2 additional decks in one. If you have a sound card that supports 4 outputs, then you can use the Denon DN-SC2000 to give yourself extra decks.

You’ll also love this DJ controller if you have a four channel sound card and a 4 channel mixer but you want more, this is a compact piece of equipment to add to your kit while also giving you 2 more decks. You don’t have to change everything to add it to your current equipment.

And if you want to experiment using more decks, this is a high quality solid machine that can help you perfect your technique.

Worth The Cost?

Sure the Denon DN-SC2000 isn’t the first single deck DJ mixer to hit the market, but considering the features and the cost ($249) it is the best to hit the market so far. You get plenty of professional features that experienced DJs need and that new DJs need to learn.

It’s compact and easy to transport, and when combined with a light laptop, you’ll have a portable yet complete kit. It’s small but effective so don’t let the size scare you off.

If you’re tired of trying to squeeze your equipment into those tight dark corners, click here to get your portable DJ controller today: Get Denon DN-SC2000!

I hope I helped you with finding the right DJ controller. Email in the box below to get access to Free video DJ lessons that will answer all of your questions on how to become a disk jockey and finding the right DJ controller for you!

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If you’re a Mac user and a beginner DJ not looking to get serious, then you’ve probably balked and the price and the learning curve of most of the DJ equipment on the market today. Admittedly most of the equipment out there is made for people with some experience or those who are looking to gain a lot of knowledge to become experienced DJs.

Worry not newbies, because there is a software program for you. This software doesn’t require you to do much, but it will allow you to play directly from your iTunes library with a little touch of DJ finesse. Most important however for recreational DJs, is that this program will take the reigns when you want to go chat up a cutie at the party.

This software is known as djay 3. Keep reading for a full review of djay 3.

Getting Started

If you’re skeptical of yet another DJ software program touting itself as the software for beginners then push those doubts aside. This program for Mac is quite simple, so simple that once uploaded you’ll swear it’s an amped up version of iTunes.

It looks like iTunes with your folders, files and playlists but it also has a visual representation of a DJ controller, including; 2 decks and a mixer right on your computer screen. The great part is that the layout is simple and you can see what traditional DJ equipment looks like.

In fact, it is so realistic that the decks spin when a song is playing, they move as though you’re actually scratching them and you can even use the mouse to control the tone-arm! It all works just as hands on equipment does, so if you ever make the jump, you’ll have some ide what you’re doing.

Of course not all of the software components of djay3 mimic real life components. Some are missing or are not quite exact like the EQ sliders and deck speed controls. There are also some features found only on DJ software that won’t be found on real controllers as well, including; sync & nudge buttons, samplers and the option to hide or show your music library.

Looping & Cue Points

The djay 3 software features standard looping so you can loop tracks from 32 beats all the way down to 1/8 of beat, controlling each deck independently.

There are 3 cue points that you can use for each track and you can set each part upon immediately hitting the button. This is perfect to create stuttering vocals and impromptu remixing.

Transitions

The djay 3 software also comes with an automix button that plays through the music library automatically when it is activated. This section makes it easy for you to choose how mixes are created from one song to the next. You can choose between backspin, standard and brake transitions.

The software even creates mixes for you once you have picked a transition as well as how long the transition should be. All you have to do once this is done, is hit one of 2 big buttons—left to right or right to left—and the software will try to do the mixing on your behalf.

Other Options

The djay 3 software also has options for skipping, which many DJ software programs don’t have. This allows you to jump forward and backwards through the songs as they play, while keeping the time of both tunes. This gives you a lot of latitude as a beginner DJ to create some really cool mixes and effects that are sure to please any crowd.

What DJ software would be complete without audio FX? This one has 3 effects available to you; echo, pitch changer and reverb. These effects are rather simple ways for you to make your mixes unique, but when combined with the other features you can create amazing mixes that make you sound like a pro.

The software also comes loaded with plenty of additional features so that you can personalize your mixes and even create your own image for your mixes, instead of boring cover art.

Simple Music Integration

Perhaps the single best feature the djay 3 software offers for beginners is that it completely integrates with your iTunes library. Everything is right there from playlists to records and all the track info you want or need. You can even drag tracks right into the cue and you can change the order of the songs from one party to the next.

The one drawback is that if you want to cue using your headphones you will need to add another sound card. But if your computer has a quality sound card then you can use it. Your other option is to use a DJ controller that has a sound card, like Vestax Spin, which also happens to be designed for use with djay software.

If you’d prefer another type of controller, djay 3 is compatible with a variety of controllers.

Is djay 3 For You?

Ok so I think it’s settled that djay 3 is not meant for serious or professional DJs, it is intended for the rest of DJs; those who want more than an iTunes playlist at parties. This software allows you just about everything about being a serious DJ without the hassle of learning intricate tricks and techniques that you use a few times a year.

The djay 3 software is great, partially because it is for Mac and therefore makes use of the track pad so you can manipulate tunes without an individual DJ controller. It looks a lot like a hand-on controller, which is cool.

Infrequent DJs will love djay 3 because you can simply change, create or re-create playlists in your iTunes library and load them into the software so you can keep party favorites on all lists but change up the tunes for difference audiences.

They say this is made for the amateur and it is, but this software is so complete and thorough and easy to use that the amateur will soon catch the bug and look to upgrade to a hands on controller with even more features and options.

This software is a great deal at just $47, but don’t let the price fool you, this is a solid user-friendly software package. Are you ready to get started impressing your friends, family and other neighborhood party goers? Then click here for your djay 3!

I hope I helped you decide if djay 3 is the right software for you. Email in the box below to get access to Free video DJ lessons that will answer all of your questions on how to become a disk jockey using djay 3!

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Any good DJ wants and needs a quality mixing program that allows you to make your own music in your own style, using many different techniques. The latest program to target this market is Mixed In Key 5. This unique program lets you make sets that are all about the music, more than tricks and techniques that manipulate existing tracks.

There are many popular users of Mixed In Key 5 which has only served to expand its popularity to DJs of all genres.

This particular software offers just about everything a DJ could want; multi-key detection, key search engine, adding a music player, music file compatibility and improved accuracy. If all that is true, then I’m excited to see what else we’ll find in this review of Mixed In Key 5.

About Mixing In Key

Mixing in key is just a fancy way of saying harmonic mixing, and it is one of the best things that has ever happened to the modern DJ. Understanding what it means to mix in key can greatly improve your skills as a DJ if you’re willing to try. Mixing in key allows you to make seamless transitions from one song or set to the next, giving you options you probably never even imagined.

How Mixed In Key 5 Works

The reason DJs around the world have fallen in love with Mixed In Key is that it made music theory accessible to DJs. You can detect the keys so that any DJ can use it to help you make mixes that sound good together. This takes a lot of time out of creating sets, so you can focus more on perfecting your DJ persona.

Whether you play a few instruments or none at all, Mixed In Key 5 makes it easier for you to create music as a DJ without a background in music. With this software you can just find tunes that match the key and mix as you see fit. Of course this won’t guarantee a good mix, it will give you a good starting point so you can make mixes faster.

Ease Of Use

Using Mixed In Key 5 is very simple, all you have to do is open a window and drag in your tunes. You just add in some basic information like where you want the key information recorded, if tempo information is required and the notion you want used. Hit the start button and then you’re ready to start mixing!

The newest version has a dual core support so it goes through your tunes fast, even faster if you have a dual core processor. It does take awhile to get all your tunes into the software, but you can leave it overnight and get started fresh the next day.

Although this mixing program is billed as the most accurate one ever, you should make sure you listen for bad mixes rather than trust the algorithms; it is still a machine and your ears know better.

There is a new feature in Mixed In Key 5 that all DJs will enjoy; you can spot key changes within the tracks. It’s pretty cool actually, the software treats each track as many different parts rather than a whole song so you can take what you want from it and use it to mix.

Other Features

Mixed In Key 5 offers many features that make it so easy to navigate, including a built-in search that allows you to find tunes by key. This will let you see all of your options for key mixes.

But there are other factors at play that make this software so useful, including super simple instructions for connecting the software to your current DJ software. This will be very useful for DJs still getting used to digital DJing because setting up software isn’t always the easiest task.

Everything is clearly outlined in Mixed In Key 5 so that you can perform just about any of the functions you need easily. The explanations are easy to understand and the tutorials make it simple to overcome any obstacle you encounter with the software.

But don’t think this software is just for the beginner because it’s not. Mixed In Key 5 provides access to advanced resources in the website forum area so you can get acquainted with the more advanced options.

Is It Worth It?

Getting Mixed In Key 5 is definitely worth the cost of purchase because you will find that it can help you become a more effective DJ. You can create mixes for any type of gig so that you always have music ready to go. It doesn’t matter where you are in your DJ career, all that matters is that you’re willing to put in the time to make it better and define your style for yourself.

While it isn’t always the most accurate program, the more time you spend mixing the more acquainted you will become with the program and recognize its flaws. If you have the money and you’re serious about making great mixes, you’ll find the most useful mixing program you didn’t know you needed.

I hope I helped you understand mixing a key; it can be a great help to aspiring DJs. Email in the box below to get access to Free video DJ lessons that will answer all of your questions about how to mix in key!

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If you’re looking to have a future as a DJ or you simply want to be the best DJ you can be, learning how to mix in key is something you should at least learn about. Mixing in key can make your mixes go evenly so you have mixes that sound more professional and pleasing to the ear.

The key to mixing in key is finding the right software to help you accomplish your goals. However the right kind of software can be difficult to find, even for DJs who have a background in music. If you don’t have a background in music, software such as Mixed In Key can really help you improve your craft.

If you’re looking for a program to help you mix in key, keep reading more of our Mixed In Key review.

Why Mixing In Key

You’re probably wondering why you should even bother mixing in key, when there are plenty of options available to you via other methods. The truth is that if you are satisfied with other methods of mixing then you can stick with that. However, if you want to take your DJing skills to another level, then Mixing In Key is software you should at least consider.

Because all music is in one key or another, you want to mix in key to give your mixes a seamless sound that blends together well. If you choose not to mix in key you run the risk of making mixes that are out of key, and don’t sound quite as good as mixes made by other DJs.

When you mix in key, particular with the Mixed In Key software, you can be more adventurous with your mixes. You have more options available to you with which you can experiment for more unique mixes that make you memorable. The Mixed In Key software lets you use advanced techniques that let you shape how each of your sets play out, whether you want to get the crowd amped up and slow it down.

Installing The Software

If you decided to buy the Mixed In Key software, installing it is pretty straightforward. Because you buy the software online from the Mixed In Key website, you can download it straight from there.

All you have to do next is add the registration key provided to you and you can open and start adding songs. Even if you’re just getting started as a DJ and aren’t quite computer literate, installing this program is quick and very simple.

Getting Started

Before you can start mixing in key, you should have some information about how and where your music files are organized and stored. This will make it easier when you get ready to analyze your files and organize them.

First, you need to figure out where you want the software to save the key information from your music files. The good news about this is that Mixed In Key offers you several different choices: filename, comment tags and ID3 tags. You must do this in order to make sure the software displays the information on the keys in whatever DJ software you currently use.

Make sure all of your music is updated and if it isn’t iTunes can do you it for you, but be prepared to wait while it works its magic.

Camelot

The Camelot system in Mixed In Key is a perfect method of understanding musical keys for those who don’t have a music background. The Camelot wheel represents the keys in all music, while the letters and numbers near each word (e Major, F-sharp Minor) represents the Camelot version of these keys.

Although this wheel is helpful, it isn’t purely necessary to use Mixed In Key. You can mix tunes by keep the letters (A or B) the same while going up or down the number system. If you’re not familiar with musical notes then this is what you need to know to use Mixed In Key; A is the ‘major’ keys that sound upbeat, while the tunes labeled with B are the minor keys that sounds melancholy.

Take your time getting acquainted with the system before you start mixing so you have an idea of what you need to make mixes.

Should You Get It?

If you take the time to organize your music and make sure everything is properly labeled in a uniform manner then you will find Mixed In Key a useful software program for your DJ career. If you’re looking for a key mixing program that will do all the work for you, then this isn’t for you.

Mixed In Key is all about you setting up a system that works for you so you can make mixes conveniently. Having this software is useful, but it doesn’t mean that you will always mix in key all of the time. When you decide to make mixes, make sure you do it before your gig, as you will notice all types of errors if you try to do it on the fly.

What’s best of all is that if you do decide that you want to mix in key and use Mixed In Key, you can purchase this software relatively cheaply at just $58 (US). This software program is easy to set up, even easier to use and affordable for all DJs.

If this program sounds like something you want to use, read our review of Mixed In Key 5 for the newest version of this program.
I hope I helped you understand the Mixed In Key software. Email in the box below to get access to Free video DJ lessons that will answer all of your questions on choosing the right DJ software!

Enter your email and click “get instant access” to get your FREE video DJ lessons showing you how to be a disk jockey!

I just had this intro to DJing video sent to me and I love it. If you would like to be sent dj training videos and new dj advice, sign up for our newsletter by clicking HERE now!

DJ Magic Wong gives you an intro to DJing. He walks you through the dj equipment, the dj mixer, the turntables, Serato dj software and he then explains beatmatching, phrasing and shows you how to do some basic dj mixing.

It doesn’t matter if you want to dj trance, house, dnb, breaks, hip hop, electro, raggea, hardcore, techno or any other kind of music… this is a great intro.

So many people want to be DJs but very few even know what a DJ does. I hope this dj tutorial helps you out!

Now that you understand what DJing is all about thats to this intro to djing, its time to start choosing your gear and learning to dj mix.

Looping using CDJs or DJ software such as serato, traktor and Ableton Live is one of the best ways to thrill any crowd!

There are many different tricks that you can try with looping that are commonly overlooked for most new DJs… (If you want to learn more DJing tricks sign up for our DJ tips and tricks newsletter by clicking HERE now)

For example… did you know that you can actually create a build up in the middle of a track without a build up just by looping? Try it… Set your loop in and loop out points on your CDJ or digital djing system for 4 or so bars. The music will be looping over and over and over. The same four bars… All you have to do to create a build up is to turn a little “echo” or “delay” effects up on your mixer and then start to turn the jog wheel on your pioneer CDJ.

The result? The loop starts to get shorter… and shorter until it is almost a static noise similar to what can be heard at the climax of a build up!

Then you just hit the exit button to exit the loop and pick up right from where you left off in the track!

It works for me EVERY time!

Have you ever tried this?

I get a lot of emails asking How To DJ with Serato and weather DJing with Serato and Traktor is different from learning how to dj on DJ CD Players or vinyl turntables. (For more advice on DJ Gear like Serato, Beatmatching, Mixing and Getting Gigs make sure you sign up for our dj training newsletter by CLICKING HERE NOW!)

Now for those of you that don’t know, Serato and Traktor are digital mixing systems that let you mix just off of your laptop or the conventional CDJs or turntables while still being able to play the MP3s off of your laptop.

So instead of explaining the differences myself I found a great walk through of the serato dj software and dj mixing system online.

You will also quickly realize after watching this video that DJs are really just technology nerds that somehow get mis-placed as cool…

I hope you enjoy this video on Serato. I will have some soon of Ableton Live and Traktor as well!

So you want to know How To DJ! At the very least you are interested in DJing….

You have probably already asked yourself a lot of questions. When I started out I was asking similar questions:

Do I want to learn how to dj mix so I can be a party dj for my friends or do I want learn how to dj electronic music at clubs, raves and parties? Do I want to know how to dj electronic music or hip hop? Do I want to learn how to dj vinyl or learn how to dj on cds? How do I dj remixed tracks? How do I beatmatch? What gear should I choose? How do I get gigs?

I send out FREE video dj lessons pretty every few days to help new DJs like you get answers to your questions so you can get DJing quickly. Sign up for free DJ Training Videos by clicking HERE right now!

It doesn’t matter if you want to learn how to dj techno, how to dj trance, how to dj electro or any other genre of dance music… the LearnToDjFast.com video dj lessons newsletter will help you learn how to dj mix quickly!

The first frustration that DJs usually find is choosing and learning how to use dj equipment, dj software and mixing software like Ableton Live. The next challenge is learning how to dj mix and how to dj scratch. The last step is to learn how to become a party dj, club dj or rave dj. This is how to get and play dj gigs. This is all will have to do to learn to dj. This is your dj training!

No matter where you are at with starting to learn how to dj the FREE video DJ Lessons will make learning how to dj quick and easy for you. Get your DJ Lesson Videos by clicking HERE right now!

Lets be honest, nobody likes to see a DJ with his head stuck in a laptop up in the DJ booth. He might as well be checking his email or writing up his grocery list for after the gig!

You have to give programs like Ableton Live and Traktor DJ Studio credit. They are kickass pieces of DJ software that can do some pretty incredible stuff. Even just the ability to get the Dj Software to beatmatch for you opens up so many doors for your DJing. If you want to learn more about digital DJing, sign up for free DJ Lesson Videos by clicking HERE right now!

But the obvious downside was that all of this computer based software did not do well with the performance aspect of DJing…. until now.

Over the past few days I have seem some really cool pieces of software that really get the DJ involved. Take the video above for example.

A dj from Uruguay, Gustavo Bravetti, does an awesome job of demonstrating how creative you can get. He shows how you can use ableton live and Nintendo Wii controllers for your DJing.

So once you learn to dj (hopefully you’ve taken some dj lessons) get out there and have fun with it. Try different pieces of DJ gear. Try out Dj controllers. There are plenty of DJ Lessons for this sort of Djing!

I hope this helps!

To learn to dj like a pro you will have to train like a pro dj. What does this mean?

First of all get the Free Dj Training video lessons by clicking here NOW!

Lets take a look at 5 of the top pro athletes in the world right now: Tiger Woods, Lebron James, Syndey Crosby, Wayne Rooney and Payton Manning. These guys are the top of their field and live their dream lives and yet they all still swear by a number of things: The first is coaching. Even the best have coaches to make their learning process easier and faster. They all have training aids such as videos. They all study other great players in history.

My point here is that if you want to be a HUGE pro DJ, follow the footsteps of the pro DJs that have already made it. There are TONS of resources out there for DJs. There are dj videos, dj manuals, dj guides, dj books, dj dvds, in person dj lessons, online dj academies and even biographies on successful DJs now and from the past.

Get out to parties, nightclubs and raves by yourself. Hang around the DJ booth and watch the DJs mixing. You’ll learn a TON. Check what dj equipment they are using. CDJs? DJ Turntables? DJ software like Ableton Live or Serato… How are they mixing? How much time do they spend looking at the crowd? What are they looking for?

Volunteer to give out fliers for the promoter so you can start meeting and hanging around the big name DJs that the promoter brings to town and have them give you DJ Lessons.

The list goes on and on of things you can do while you learn to dj that go way beyond DJ Lessons.

Its not hard work like training for a sport. Its fun! I promise that if you do these types of things you will go very far as a DJ. Just keep focusing on your dj training.

Hope this helps!