Before I go on I gotta point out that the following:
You dont need to spend that much if youre starting out, Learning on crappy tables (anything beltdrive) is ok. But, If youre serious, you will eventually have to pay for something more substantial.
I started on 1 turntable and a mixer setup like this:
Ok, lets get on.
Ive been Dj'ing for about 7 years.
Right now Im using all Vestax gear.
Setup at the mo looks something like this:
MIXER:
First Question is whether you want to scratch or not (I do
).
If you do a "Battle" mixer (like mine) is what you need. Its got lots of space to move around & the main controls are unclutterd. A couple of other features of a battle bixer are recessed screws (so ya dont rip your hands up) & very importantly the crossfader. I wont bore you with the details, basically a good smooth crossfader is essential for scratching.
If your into straight mixing crossfader quality isnt that much of an issue because youll tend to move slowly from one track to the other (compared to turntablism). Ive mixed techno using only upfaders many times. With techno mixers a good EQ is advisable(lotsa twiddly knobs).
TABLES
Go to any Dj Forum & youll find a million threads about Technics Vs Vestax (or Numark, or Stanton or whatever) tables.
It breaks down like this:
Technics
They have been around forEVAR, They are industry standard & If you go to a club chances are youll be standing infront of Technics. They were what the first Dj's used back in the 70's. They were originally a hi-end turntable but the DJ's changed all that. In the 20+ years since they appeared they have changed very little, a couple of tweaks here & there but basically the same as the original 1200's. Alot of Dj's will slit your throat if you diss Technics.
Vestax
I prefer Vestax for the following reasons:
Higher torque than Technics (pulling power basically).
+/-60 pitch (Technics +/-12)
Reverse play (you can buy a kit for reverse play on Technics)
Adjustable start & break speeds.
ASTS tonearm. (almost unskippable short straight tonearm)
High density anti feedback casing.
IMO they fucking rule (is that a reason?)
Having said all that Its just my opinion & I would be quite happy spinnin on a pair of Tech's.
When It comes to the serious money I wouldnt advise buying anything except Vestax or Technics. I have heard alot of good things about Stanton & Rane (mixers) but I dont have first hand experience so I cant really comment.
Other stuff
Practise, It takes time to learn. Even when you get mixing down you still have alot to learn. There is a huuuuge number of crap Dj's out there.
SAY NO TO BEATCOUNTERS
ENJOY
