See the Gear in Action – Watch videos of people using CDJs and tutorials on them.Most DJs will want to use Vinyl mode unless they’re used to older models of CDJ. They have a big impact on the way that the jogwheel and needle search bar function. Vinyl vs CDJ Mode – Learn how these two modes differ on a CDJs.Slip Mode – Don’t get used to slip mode… this won’t be available on a lot of CDJs.Instead, practice getting beats as close as possible on the first press. Next, set the Quantize value to 1/16 Beat – or disable it! Not all features on a CDJ (such as the loop cutter) will be quantized on older units. However, not all venues will be using the latest Nexus gear. Some CDJ setups with have this feature, in which case, feel free to make use of it. DJs need to learn how to beat match and get used to adjusting the pitch manually on a CDJ setup. Take Off The Training WheelsĮnsure that sync is disabled. This gives you a good opportunity to practice pushing the outside of your jogwheels a bit more when two tracks’ BPM isn’t perfectly aligned – a wonderful skill to dig into if you you’re still learning manual beatmatching. DJs who rely on the printed display for beat matching are to make sure to get used to a bit of inaccuracy. Some CDJ setups might not show any decimal place or only 1 decimal place for the BPM figure. Declutter The Library + DisplayĮnsure that the decks’ BPM display is set to only 1 decimal place. When you play on a CDJ setup, keep an eye on the VU meters on the channels to see what levels you’re really outputting. Instead, practice adjusting unbalanced tracks using the trim and channel faders accordingly.This will ensure that if when playing on a set of CDJs, a balanced master output level can be maintained throughout the set. DJs should be able to set the FX BPM manually if the auto-detection doesn’t work well (on many Pioneer mixers you can hold the TAP button and rotate the TIME knob to adjust the BPM) Auto Gain Is Not Your FriendĪuto gain should be disabled while practicing for CDJs. Some older FX units on mixers might need you to tap out the BPM manually. DJs should practice doing transitions without these types of effects. Effects such as echo, delay, and distortion effects are standard – but more complex effects (particularly combo effects), are not available. Simplify Your EffectsĪlmost all effect types found in the basic Rekordbox and Serato DJ stock FX (not expansion packs) can be emulated on newer Pioneer DJ mixers. That being said, you’ll be limited in the range of effects available. You can also avoid using the roll pads – but many Pioneer mixers have a similar function, albeit with a different set of controls, in the Beat FX section. Also, avoid relying on Sampler and Slicer performance modes – nothing like those on CDJs yet. It is imperative to learn how to work without access to 8 hot cues. On most CDJs, DJs will be limited to 3 hot cues. Unless there is access to a device such as the DDJ-SP1 or the venue uses Denon SC5000s, DJs will not have access to the pads found in most controllers. This will also remove any tempo-matching or beat-matching assistants. This view gives fewer details than the waveform overview, like a non-Nexus series CDJ (CDJ-2000 and earlier). The closest view a DJ can get to a CDJ is to set the view to Library. This will prepare DJs a lot more for the first time playing on CDJs. Instead of pre-aligning waveforms, use the orange CUE button to perform cue starts on the beat. DJs using parallel, larger waveforms will probably be used to pre-aligning the physical appearance of a track. To get used to CDJ mixing, avoid pre-aligning tracks. But this luxury isn’t present in a CDJ setup. For controller mixing, this makes it easier to line up two beats. In Serato or Rekordbox DJ, each deck’s waveform are aligned with one another. Read on to learn how to get used to CDJs with a DDJ-RX, DDJ-SX2, and others like them.Īdapted with permission from an original Imgur-based tutorial written by DJ Defractaled on Reddit. These controllers borrow key design features from their professional siblings and, if you know what to look for, a DJ can use them to practice for CDJs. Based on sales reports, drastically more DJs own a Pioneer DDJ controller. Unfortunately, not everyone can get their hands on a pair of CDJs before their first gig using them. Often, touring DJs prefer them over controllers because of the consistency and simplicity in terms of logistics. Many clubs will insist DJs for the night share a pair of CDJs. Even as a DJ’s skill-sets advance, controllers won’t always be at the ready for a gig. Controllers are an easy way for beginners and bedroom DJs to practice their chops.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |