Table of Contents

How to Start DJing, Reddit? The Real Talk from a Veteran

So, you’re thinking about starting to DJ, and you’ve turned to the vast, often chaotic, but occasionally brilliant hive mind that is Reddit. Smart move. You’ll find a million opinions, some gold, some garbage. Let me cut through the noise and give you the straight dope.

The short answer: starting to DJ involves understanding music, learning beatmatching, acquiring equipment (physical or digital), practicing consistently, and finding opportunities to perform. It’s a journey of skill development, musical discovery, and, frankly, a bit of trial and error. But let’s break that down into actionable steps.

First, immerse yourself in music. You need to know music. Not just your favorite tracks, but genres, tempos, keys, history, and the underlying structure of songs. Listen widely. Analyze what makes a song “work.” Pay attention to transitions.

Next, learn to beatmatch. This is the foundational skill. Whether you go the vinyl route or embrace digital DJing, the ability to smoothly transition between tracks by aligning their beats is paramount. There are countless tutorials online; YouTube is your friend. Start with simple, four-on-the-floor genres like house or techno. Practice with headphones until you can consistently beatmatch by ear.

Then, decide on your setup. The age-old debate: vinyl vs. digital. Vinyl offers a tactile, purist experience and demands a deeper understanding of the music. It’s also expensive. Digital, using software like Serato DJ Pro, Traktor Pro, or Rekordbox DJ, offers convenience, affordability, and a wealth of features. A digital setup requires a DJ controller, software, and a laptop. Don’t break the bank to begin with; a mid-range controller is perfect for learning.

Practice, practice, practice. There’s no substitute for putting in the hours. Record your sets, listen back critically, and identify areas for improvement. Experiment with different transition techniques, learn to EQ effectively, and develop your musical flow. This isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon.

Finally, find opportunities to perform. Start small. Offer to DJ at house parties, volunteer at local bars, or create mixes to share online. Don’t be afraid to reach out to local DJs or promoters for advice or opportunities. Networking is key. Build your brand, define your style, and keep learning. The journey never ends!

Understanding the DJ Landscape

The world of DJing has dramatically changed. Vinyl remains niche but respected. Digital DJing is now the dominant form, offering incredible flexibility and creative possibilities.

The Rise of Digital DJing

Digital DJing has democratized the art form. Software like Serato, Traktor, and Rekordbox, paired with controllers, allows aspiring DJs to access a vast library of music, experiment with effects, and perform sophisticated mixes without the limitations of physical media. However, it’s crucial to develop the same foundational skills – beatmatching, phrasing, and understanding music theory – as their vinyl counterparts. Don’t rely solely on software to do the work for you.

Defining Your DJ Style

What kind of DJ do you want to be? A club DJ, a mobile DJ, a radio DJ, or a bedroom producer? This will influence your equipment choices, your music selection, and your marketing strategy. Don’t try to be everything to everyone. Find your niche and become the best at it.

Essential DJ Equipment and Software

Choosing the right equipment and software is critical. This is where many beginners feel overwhelmed. Let’s simplify it:

Core Equipment

DJ Controller: This is your primary interface. Brands like Pioneer DJ, Numark, Roland, and Native Instruments offer a wide range of controllers to suit different budgets and skill levels. Look for controllers with solid build quality, responsive jog wheels, and intuitive layouts.
Laptop: A reliable laptop is essential for digital DJing. Ensure it meets the minimum system requirements of your chosen software.
Headphones: Closed-back headphones are crucial for monitoring your mixes in noisy environments. Brands like Sennheiser, Audio-Technica, and Pioneer offer excellent DJ headphones.
Speakers: For practice and small gigs, you’ll need a pair of powered studio monitors. Look for accurate and neutral-sounding speakers.

Essential Software

Serato DJ Pro: Industry standard, known for its stability and intuitive interface.
Traktor Pro: Another industry giant, known for its advanced features and customization options.
Rekordbox DJ: Pioneer DJ’s software, seamlessly integrates with their hardware.

Developing Your Skills and Finding Your Voice

Once you have the equipment and software, the real work begins: honing your skills and developing your unique sound.

Mastering Beatmatching

Beatmatching is the cornerstone of DJing. Learn to do it by ear first, before relying too heavily on visual aids in your software. Practice regularly, and challenge yourself with different tempos and genres.

Perfecting Transitions

Transitions are what separates a good DJ from a great one. Experiment with different techniques, such as EQ blending, cutting, looping, and using effects. Develop your own signature style.

Building Your Music Library

Curate your music library carefully. Organize your tracks by genre, tempo, and key. Tag your music with relevant information, such as energy level and mood. Use a music management software to streamline your workflow.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Starting to DJ

Here are some common questions and answers to help you on your journey.

What’s the best DJ controller for beginners?
- Controllers like the Numark Mixtrack Pro FX, Pioneer DJ DDJ-200, or the Traktor Kontrol S2 are excellent starting points. They offer essential features at an affordable price, providing a solid foundation for learning.
Is vinyl DJing harder than digital DJing?
- Yes, vinyl DJing is generally considered more challenging due to the precise manual control required. However, it also offers a more tactile and rewarding experience for some. Digital DJing offers greater flexibility and convenience, but it’s still important to learn the fundamentals of beatmatching and phrasing.
Do I need to know music theory to be a DJ?
- While not essential, a basic understanding of music theory can significantly enhance your DJing. Knowing about keys, scales, and harmonies can help you create more seamless and creative mixes.
How long does it take to become a good DJ?
- It depends on your dedication and practice. You can learn the basics in a few months, but mastering the art of DJing takes years of consistent effort and experience.
Should I learn to DJ with headphones or speakers?
- Headphones are crucial for beatmatching and cueing tracks in noisy environments. Speakers are useful for practicing your mixes and getting a feel for the overall sound. Use both!
How do I find gigs as a beginner DJ?
- Start by offering to DJ at house parties or small local events. Network with other DJs and promoters in your area. Create a demo mix and share it online. Use social media to promote yourself and your services.
What’s the best way to organize my music library?
- Use a music management software like Rekordbox, Serato DJ Pro, or Traktor Pro to organize your tracks by genre, tempo, key, and other relevant tags. Maintain a consistent naming convention and file structure.
How can I improve my mixing skills?
- Practice regularly, record your sets, and listen back critically. Seek feedback from other DJs and producers. Experiment with different transition techniques and effects. Analyze the mixes of your favorite DJs.
What are some common mistakes that beginner DJs make?
- Relying too heavily on sync, neglecting phrasing, playing tracks that don’t fit together, using too many effects, and failing to engage with the audience.
Is it worth investing in expensive equipment as a beginner?
- No. Start with mid-range equipment that offers essential features and solid build quality. As you progress and your needs evolve, you can upgrade your equipment accordingly.
How important is branding for a DJ?
- Branding is crucial for standing out in a crowded market. Develop a unique DJ name, logo, and online presence. Create a consistent image and message that reflects your style and target audience.
What resources are available for learning to DJ?
- Online tutorials on YouTube, DJ schools, online courses (Skillshare, Udemy), DJ communities on Reddit and other forums, and private DJ lessons. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn from experienced DJs.

Starting to DJ is a journey of passion, dedication, and continuous learning. Embrace the challenges, stay curious, and never stop honing your craft. Welcome to the world of DJing!