Budget Equipment Appreciation Thread.

[drzinc]

Not all of us can afford top tier gear at all or all the time. So why dont we have a section for good or great budget gear. No all budget gear are bad and there are some gems in this category. So share you finds and let the community in on a great bargain on a decent piece of gear that is reasonably priced!

[Dantron]

VCI-100 doesn't suck.

[Adzm00]

i had some behringer headphones once. I think they were 25 quid and the only piece of behringer equipment i didnt think was a total piece of shit.

[Damon_Chambers]

is this strictly dj related or just anything in general? cause you know... this is OT.

[Damon_Chambers]

i had some behringer headphones once. I think they were 25 quid and the only piece of behringer equipment i didnt think was a total piece of shit.

i have some behringer monitors that i feel have a great sound. i bought some krks to replace them with and wound up putting the krks with my dj setup and left the behringers with my little production desk. i felt the krks were a little heavy on the low end.

[Lazerick]

The Numark DM-06 - I had one of these and played on it daily for two years without issue, it was a great mixer,
I'm thinking about buying another as a back up.

http://images.guitarcenter.com/products/optionLarge/Numark/DV016_Jpg_Large_637003_R.jpg

[Dantron]

^^^ used that one before, it is in fact, not a piece of shit.

[djdavidvaux]

Gonna agree with both above. Used that mixer for 2 years in college. Went through the worst times and hard shit, and it still rocked out. Whats your budget? You can get some pretty sick cheap deals on craigslist...

[thehadgi]

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31TMTBtP2UL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

*Audio Interface* I use for production. Behringer UCA-202, $35. This thing has been dragged through hell and back in mud, beer, and rain for 3 years of producing and DJ'ing, and it still works great. Used it and Sony MDR 7506's for my album coming out soon.

Although... if anyone is looking for a sound card, I highly advise investing in an actual good one. I've gotten used to how mixes sound on this card, and know where to adjust things, but as soon as I get money I'm throwing this cheap lil thing away heh

[ezelkow1]

http://www.disco-dj-lighting-equipment-hire.com/numark/dm1001x.jpg

My first mixer, rest of my equipment sucked, but that little bugger kept going. I think its still in a box in the basement and last time I tried it after ~13 years it still worked

[Ellissentials]

VCI-100 doesn't suck.

I wouldn't call this a "budget piece" per say.. it's $500 brand new and made by Vestax (Generally a decent company)

[Ellissentials]

The Numark DM-06 - I had one of these and played on it daily for two years without issue, it was a great mixer,
I'm thinking about buying another as a back up.

http://images.guitarcenter.com/products/optionLarge/Numark/DV016_Jpg_Large_637003_R.jpg

Couldn't stand the EQ setup at ALL!!! Also, didn't like the cue. So brought it back the next day, and went with the next level up. It's a GOOD piece of kit! Used it for years.

http://images04.olx.es/ui/11/27/05/1302367914_186712205_1-Fotos-de--MEZCLADOR-DJ-SCRATCH-NUMARK-DXM-09.jpg

[drzinc]

Thats the spirit guys! This should be a sticky....

[Rek_Aviles]

The Numark DM-06 - I had one of these and played on it daily for two years without issue, it was a great mixer,
I'm thinking about buying another as a back up.

http://images.guitarcenter.com/products/optionLarge/Numark/DV016_Jpg_Large_637003_R.jpg

My current mixer for the last.. 5? yrs maybe. :)

[drzinc]

OK here is my suggestion.
This (http://www.gtdaudio.net/) company makes the best budget wireless systems. Their systems have some features that some of the big guns don't. They have great range, sturdy construction, excellent battery life, the ability to mix and match lapel and hand held and most of all they sound great. I have turned on many of my fellow dj's to these and all of them say the same thing (wow). If you do want to buy do it through ebay this way you know it will be in stock.

[S.Michael]

If we are on the topic of budget, I will add some input.
http://www.behringer.com/assets/DJX700_P0165_Perspective_web.jpg

Behringer DJX700
I bought this piece when building my second setup, I got it for $50 shipped. It treated me good for the year I used it, never gave me any problems and did exactly what it was supposed to. The only catch is the effects are garbage, and the external effect loop does not work at all lol. Then again I imagine those of you on budget do not have external effects unit so it is not a big deal. But honestly for $50-100 it is not a bad pick up, and in that price range I would not expect the effects to be good.

[Rick_N]

The AEM-100i is pretty decent from what I heard. Its like 350 or 400$ but on scratch mixer level its not to bad. But, if you want a scratch mixer, just buy any real cheap mixer and drop an innofader into it. Wholia cuttin goodness.

Im using right now a Ecler Smac-30? I believe, well it was free and like 10 years old but it does the job also.

I think as long as you go into buying cheap gear without huge expectations of it lasting forever, then you should be good.

[Hausgeist]

A budget gear thread! Oh, sweet mother of pearl! Thank you!

http://i40.tinypic.com/2ekp65h.jpg

I have a seriously sick fetish for a budget home setup. Check this out:

Numark tt-100 turntables: $50.00 each (used)
Numark Axis 4 cd decks: $79 each (brand new with warranty)
Numark dxm06: $50 (used)

Total cost: $308.00

Of course, I spent money on the ancillaries like carts and headphones (which cost almost as much as the entire setup :lol:) and some other custom stuff.

I absolutely love this setup, and it does everything I need it to do for knocking around in the house. The cd players are a relatively new addition, but I have been using those turntables for over a year. The 100s' actual age is probably somewhere around seven to nine years old, considering those things were discontinued in 2002. The sweet part is that if I decide to sell this stuff before it breaks, I paid so little that I will get most, if not all, of my money back. My little piece of budget heaven looks like this:

http://i1033.photobucket.com/albums/a415/DJ_Hausgeist/Finalgreat.jpg

I realize I posted this pic in the setup thread, but imo it bears repeating here.

[fueledbymusic]

GREAT THREAD! This is a thread we really need!
:tup:

I personnally cannot get why many here suggests the very pricey stuff. They are great! But its not so much for weather we cant afford the high end stuff or not. Not everybody needs or wants the best one in the world. It should depend on what you really actually need the equipment for. For instance. If you want to start a business. Thats when to get the good stuff. If its for once in a while private parties. You dont need a pair of JBL SRX728s and a pair of $1000 each tops just for that.. Do you?

Just because its a budget item, doesn't always mean theyre crap. For instance, I have budget priced $99 American Audio QD6 mixer with the american audio CDI300s Works great for me. Been using for 2 years! And Im happy with it. And when I was looking for speakers. All I got flooded with, was $2000 a peice subs. I build a pair of tuba 24s. Costs me $400 for the pair. And I am straight out happy with them. I love them. They kick ASS. My $250 pair Yamaha BR12s sound sensational for me. On a new years party I did. I had alot of compliments for the sound of my set up.

[Lazerick]

Couldn't stand the EQ setup at ALL!!! Also, didn't like the cue. So brought it back the next day, and went with the next level up. It's a GOOD piece of kit! Used it for years.

http://images04.olx.es/ui/11/27/05/1302367914_186712205_1-Fotos-de--MEZCLADOR-DJ-SCRATCH-NUMARK-DXM-09.jpg

I've played on the DXM-09 a lot and it is a great mixer also, my friend has it, been playing on it since 2007 and he loves it. The layout/setup on it is better.

[thehadgi]

I bought this piece when building my second setup, I got it for $50 shipped. It treated me good for the year I used it, never gave me any problems and did exactly what it was supposed to. The only catch is the effects are garbage, and the external effect loop does not work at all lol. Then again I imagine those of you on budget do not have external effects unit so it is not a big deal. But honestly for $50-100 it is not a bad pick up, and in that price range I would not expect the effects to be good.

Did you buy it off ebay? Because I sold mine a while ago for that much... maybe I sold it to you heh

[Hausgeist]

is this strictly dj related or just anything in general? cause you know... this is OT.

Moved to Beginners. :tup:

[Boomcie]

Best budget mixer I've ever used. The cross fader is shit for scratching, but everything else is awesome
http://i39.tinypic.com/fyjp0k.jpg

[Sigma]

Are there any good sub-£500 scratch mixers these days? There used to be a few, but DJ gear seems to have shot way up in price over the last few years.

[Boomcie]

People say that the American Audio QD5 MKII is a good cheap scratch mixer, but I've never touched one

[S.Michael]

GREAT THREAD! This is a thread we really need!
:tup:

I personnally cannot get why many here suggests the very pricey stuff. They are great! But its not so much for weather we cant afford the high end stuff or not. Not everybody needs or wants the best one in the world. It should depend on what you really actually need the equipment for. For instance. If you want to start a business. Thats when to get the good stuff. If its for once in a while private parties. You dont need a pair of JBL SRX728s and a pair of $1000 each tops just for that.. Do you?.

I never really understood the use of pricey equitment until I purchased some. Having used a few different budget/cheap pieces over the years it really helps me appreciate the good stuff. I at one point had a pair of Gemini CD players, they did the job but didn't do it well. Lag on almost all functions, They featured looping but when exiting or entering a loop there was a pause in the music. It seems like all budget gear has flaws where as the pricey stuff woraks exactly as it should.

[S.Michael]

Did you buy it off ebay? Because I sold mine a while ago for that much... maybe I sold it to you heh

I did buy it off ebay lol, like 2 and a half or three years ago. It may have been you!

[Marc S]

cockroaches and these will survive a nuclear attack only

http://www.lightdesignsystems.com/prodpics/ps626pro.gif

[Marc S]

Moved to Beginners. :tup:

not sure why its beginners? better in general i think, since most of the people posting are not beginners.

[Hausgeist]

not sure why its beginners? better in general i think, since most of the people posting are not beginners.

I reckon beginners are generally the ones wanting to know what kind of gear they can get for a pickle and a bit of string.

[Liam]

Great idea for a thread, if people point beginners this way i think it could help them a lot..

My input would be the Numark Axis 9. Budget and a great deck and feel to it. I used my old ones for a year and never got a single bit of problems with them!

[Hausgeist]

GREAT THREAD! This is a thread we really need!
:tup:

If its for once in a while private parties. You dont need a pair of JBL SRX728s and a pair of $1000 each tops just for that.. Do you?

I don't think so.


For instance, I have budget priced $99 American Audio QD6 mixer with the american audio CDI300s Works great for me. Been using for 2 years! And Im happy with it.

I am a fan of American Audio. I just sold a cdi-500 mp3 to buddy of mine. I used that thing for two and a half years without any issues, and now he is enjoying it.

[daveoj]

I've been using the Denon DN-X120 (newer version of the DN-X100 I believe) for about 4 years now... and it's superb. CDJ wise, I have a pair of DN-S1200's... they're super small, built like a tank and double up as decent MIDI controllers!

[Boomcie]

cockroaches and these will survive a nuclear attack only

http://www.lightdesignsystems.com/prodpics/ps626pro.gif

I have a friend that still gigs with one of those things. It will not die

[fueledbymusic]

I don't think so.



I am a fan of American Audio. I just sold a cdi-500 mp3 to buddy of mine. I used that thing for two and a half years without any issues, and now he is enjoying it.

What do you use now? since you sold the cdi500s

[drzinc]

Again asking if this can be stickied...

[Hausgeist]

Done. :tup:

[thehadgi]

I did buy it off ebay lol, like 2 and a half or three years ago. It may have been you!

hmm... 'papiplayboy' was who bought it from me. if that's you, that's funny, and also you need a new ebay name heh


Also, as far as budget equip goes, it's true what others said above: makes you appreciate nicer equipment once you have it. You can make budget stuff work, but if you get more and more serious, the more you spend makes things so nice :tup:

[S.Michael]

hmm... 'papiplayboy' was who bought it from me. if that's you, that's funny, and also you need a new ebay name heh


No that is not me lol. I believe $50 is about the going rate on the djx700, so i would not be surprised to see many going for sale on ebay around there.

[Stripe]

cockroaches and these will survive a nuclear attack only

http://www.lightdesignsystems.com/prodpics/ps626pro.gif

minus the crossfader, I really liked that mixer, a really nice simple layout. I had to older version of it prior to the 626 being a giant graphic.

[JonAvalon]

^ Gotta love that good ole 626, solid workhorse.

[JDH]

I don't have anything to contribute on experience, but the feedback and price on the Denon DN-X120 has secured me a purchase - top quality thread!

[drzinc]

Want to build an outdoor ceremony rack that is both powerful but light try these components. A proper ceremony system will have a decent amp a pair of molded speakers (to battle the outdoor elements) and a microphone system that is flexible with great range. This system can also be a backup system if you main system goes down.
Here are the components that I suggest.

Amp (http://www.ebay.ca/itm/GTD-Audio-M-2500-Power-Amplifier-Amp-2500-Watts-NEW-1U-/260885810125?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3cbe018bcd)

Microphone System (http://www.ebay.ca/itm/200Ch-Wireless-UHF-Lavalier-Headset-Microphone-System-/280576911186?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4153afe752)

Speakers (http://www.carvinguitars.com/products/single.php?product=PM12)

Rack (http://www.ebay.ca/itm/CNB-RB-600-18-4U-Deep-Rack-Equipment-Rack-Bag-4-Space-/370579994544?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item564849f7b0)

Microphone Mixer/preamp (http://www.ebay.ca/itm/Alto-Pro-Zephyr-ZM862-6-channel-2-Bus-8-Input-Mixer-Zephyr-Mic-Pres-EQ-/310367300185?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4843552a59)

Optional EQ. (http://www.ebay.ca/itm/Behringer-ULTRAGRAPH-PRO-FBQ1502-Equalizer-EQ-Crossover-/390389117373?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item5ae50131bd)

Speaker Stands (http://www.ebay.ca/itm/Pair-Heavy-Duty-Tripod-DJ-PA-Speaker-Stands-SP-19B-/160642517159?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item25670a48a7)

This setup would make a fine ceromony system on a budget.

[Ellissentials]

I had that 626 as well :tup:

[DJ Matt]

this maybe a wierd example but
i have heard behrenger 15" monitors sounding pretty good for salsa music when driven hard, they kinda make the bass sound better than the original song, many of which songs were recorded back in the 1970s with weaker bass than they need
:D

but the 10" sound horrible in that regard

hercules rmx, is a good budget piece of kit

and i used to have a set of "omnitronic" belt drive decks years ago which were surprisingly excellent to mix on

[Hausgeist]

What do you use now? since you sold the cdi500s

Numark Axis 4s. I got a brand new pair, with warranty and free shipping, for $79 each. Can't beat it. :D

[mostapha]

http://www.euri.gr/online//images/detailed_images/608_image_med_vestax-vmc004xl.jpg
Pretty crappy crossfader, but a good, clean sound and basically no headroom…which is perfect for a beginner, because it'll teach you to watch your damn levels.
http://www.pssl.com/images/ProdImage01/500/VMC-002XL-USB-BLK.jpg
Same but 2 channels and even cheaper.
http://www.pssl.com/images/ProdImage02/500/AUDIO-2-DJ.jpg
Best cheap sound card on the planet. Pretty low latency and rock solid drivers (on OS X…no idea about windows). Can't do DVS, but if you're using controllers or leaning with the keyboard/mouse and want to be able to cue, it's a winner. Add an X1, a mixer (like above), and your existing laptop…and you've got a Traktor LE setup for ~$500 that will sound about as good as anything out there and easily let you learn.

[Mrspyaman]

I hate to put this out there but I have used the same set of tech 12s for 24 years without a problem, That is a value.
I also run an American audio versa and ms pinky software ($220 total) which is a great dvs setup for the price.

[drzinc]

My newest budjet purchase (http://www.ebay.ca/itm/290515572152). 1/4in to 1/4 inch patch cables. Made the old fashioned retro way with woven frabric sheeth. $12 a pair shipped.

http://img834.imageshack.us/img834/509/cables02q.jpg

http://img31.imageshack.us/img31/4562/cables01.jpg

[Interracial Tea]

That seems really expensive a 1/4inch cable.

[EdMuggles]

i still have my second generation 626 i
apart from the sampler which carcked it within 12 months, im with mark. the thing is bullet proof.
that and my old vestax pcv 175...



cockroaches and these will survive a nuclear attack only

http://www.lightdesignsystems.com/prodpics/ps626pro.gif

[drzinc]

That seems really expensive a 1/4inch cable.

Here are some examples of the same quality cables...

http://www.americanmusical.com/Item--i-CBI-BR10-BK-LIST
http://www.zzounds.com/item--CBIBRBKQA
http://www.zzounds.com/item--CBIBRVT

and these are each plus shipping.

[mostapha]

that and my old vestax pcv 175...

It's a rare day that I don't think about returning my 004 and getting my 185 fixed. Vestax just makes awesome budget mixers.

[fueledbymusic]

http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee435/fueledbymusic/SDC13887.jpg
This was a DJ system I had before buying my CDI300 system.
It was 2 Technics BD22 turntables $25 for one at the thrift store an $50 for the other on ebay. And the Realistic (Radio Shack) mixer for $6 at a thrift store. And $20 for the coffin, $30 for the Harmin Kardon :P Ill tell ya.. I loved my set up for 2 whole years. I enjoyed using this for that time. Before I got more serious! LOL
Then I sold it for $200 turntables, mixer and coffin

[fueledbymusic]

Oh yes I forgot, I had put in $3 each neon lights! NICE

http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee435/fueledbymusic/SDC13996.jpg

and lets not forget about these $140 pair onlyfactorydirects 12" tops Really LIKED them. They sounded good for the price (Yes you heard me right, they sounded good for the price) Owned for 2 years. Dont have them anymore. Got rid of, NOT because they were crap, only because I wanted a "name" brand speaker, thats all. http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee435/fueledbymusic/MyDJequipment14.jpg

[mostapha]

Can't blame you about the speakers. I've done several parties with my white van speakers. And I traded an old CS text book for them…a text book that I got used for $25 because it was an old version.

They sound like absolute crap. But not for $25 that would have gone in the trash had I not gotten them.

[Stevil]

My first mixer, rest of my equipment sucked, but that little bugger kept going. I think its still in a box in the basement and last time I tried it after ~13 years it still worked

:tup: nice, that was my first mixer as well. Worked great, but I ended up selling it with my Gemini TT's when I upgraded to Techs.

I've had a Numark PPD01 for the last 9 years or so. Its been a solid mixer. I had it repaired a few years back after a DSP fried on it, but Numark took care of it without question.

I have a behringer 8 channel studio mixer. Nothing fancy, it was really cheap but it works well. I also purchased a pair of Sony MDR V6 headphones a while back. They were only $40 but I still use them to this day and they sound great.

[ae86touge]

Numark Mixtrack Pro. Cost me £160, does everything I want it to for a beginner. Second sound card for headphone output drew me into it

[Mike Raunchy]

Tascam VL-M3 Stereo Powered Reference Monitors. For $79 these little speakers not only were inexpensive and had a small footprint but translated into some pretty good mixes for me. I got alot of sound out of them and never had a problem like I've heard people have with other super budget monitors in that price range. I would definitely recommend them to a beginner or a person who is experienced and is doing a small or mobile production set up on a small budget.

[mikehawk]

This thread is exactly what i needed. I shall lurk around for a while before I begin to start posting. Nice to meet everyone

[Ver Jaina]

Apart from the Behringer UCA222 soundcard that gets the job done recording, and now i use it with my Mixtrack (my cheap one night stand disposable controller) for cueing..i previously had this

http://www.son-video.com/images/static/Rayons/Hifi/DJ/Vestax/PMC07Pro.jpg

not sure if it would fit into the budget corner, but it's the 1st DJ related gear i've ever owned! i dont even scratch & mix only trance music so the line EQ is a bit of challenge at 1st. using this for a year before upgrade to something better,

[DJ Sunshine]

http://www.productwiki.com/upload/images/numark_ndx400.jpg

The Numark NDX400. Possibly one of the most feature-rich CDJs, and at $165-$200 USD a pop, it puts the Pio CDJ200s to shame.

[fueledbymusic]

http://www.productwiki.com/upload/images/numark_ndx400.jpg

The Numark NDX400. Possibly one of the most feature-rich CDJs, and at $165-$200 USD a pop, it puts the Pio CDJ200s to shame. That was the other choice I had when I went for the american audio CDI300s. I wanted the CDI500s but they discontinued those... I dunno why!

[Hausgeist]

That was the other choice I had when I went for the american audio CDI300s. I wanted the CDI500s but they discontinued those... I dunno why!

The Radius replaced the cdi-500 as the flagship deck for AA.

[Gareth]

Numark Mixtrack Pro. Cost me £160, does everything I want it to for a beginner. Second sound card for headphone output drew me into it

A friend has one of these and when we meet up with a bunch of other friends to go clubbing he brings it and his laptop and some speakers along and we have a party in the hotel before heading off to the club... it's a good piece of kit for the price.

Another friend has the M-Audio Torq Xponent which is probably better but considerably more expensive. I don't think the bang-per-buck ratio works in the Xponent's favour though.

[Gareth]

My recommendation for this thread...

Sennheiser HD 205 headphones

http://www.sennheiser.co.uk/uk/home_en.nsf/root/professional_headphones-headsets_dj-headphones_500263

http://www.sennheiser.co.uk/sennheiser/products.nsf/resources/AC671C94A4A9A976C1257482003E0F99/$File/HD205_ProductImage.jpg

I had a really cheap pair of American Audio cans before buying this... and what a difference it makes! I bought them from someone at work and only paid fifteen quid, but brand new they're only about £30.

I'm sure the HD 25 or the Pioneer HDJ1000 sound even better / have better build quality, but I can't justify spunking over a hundred quid on a pair of headphones when I just DJ for fun in my bedroom, and the HD 205 fit my needs perfectly. The cups cover my ears and isolate the external sound sufficiently, and the sound quality from the Sennheiser's is very good, imo.

They might not be good enough for someone playing in a club or other similarly loud environment, but I guess you'd not be looking at £30 headphones in that case.

[DjAaron]

I have those headphones. I just wished they handled the power better. Seems like they start distorting really early and when being near the speakers I need something a bit louder but they are a really good set of headphones and sounds really good.

My first mixer was the Hercules RMX and it was great but lacked some features. I then stepped up to the Numark Mixdeck when it came out and was really happy with it. I know it's not really a "budget" setup but if you can save up a little more it is worth it. Plus it does cds and thumbdrives so you don't need the laptop all the time

[JDH]

Bought the Denon DN-X120 the other day, amazing bit of kit for the money you're paying!

[Finnish_Fox]

Apart from the Behringer UCA222 soundcard that gets the job done recording, and now i use it with my Mixtrack (my cheap one night stand disposable controller) for cueing..i previously had this

http://www.son-video.com/images/static/Rayons/Hifi/DJ/Vestax/PMC07Pro.jpg

not sure if it would fit into the budget corner, but it's the 1st DJ related gear i've ever owned! i dont even scratch & mix only trance music so the line EQ is a bit of challenge at 1st. using this for a year before upgrade to something better,

I had the 05 Pro II and that was mid-level-ish brand new I would think. Not sure though. Loved the 07 Pro.

[Rek_Aviles]

http://www.productwiki.com/upload/images/numark_ndx400.jpg

The Numark NDX400. Possibly one of the most feature-rich CDJs, and at $165-$200 USD a pop, it puts the Pio CDJ200s to shame.

Rich with features, but did you use it? Curious if they are worth the buy.



FYI, I've owned a pair of Axis9s for the last 5+ years and, although one is now giving me issues, they were definitely worth the buy for me. With that said, no need to speak up about your negative Numark stories. :P

[Nebula]

I don't know if this necessarily counts as budget equipment, but IMO Numark TTX (or TTX-USB) turtables out-perform Technics 1200s and run a couple hundred bucks cheaper each... I own a pair of each and actually use my Numarks for most gigs and keep the Technics as a backup pair

http://www.sonicftp.com/news/images/numark_ttxusb.jpg

[contra]

I'll second the Numark Axis 9's, the Numark DXM mixer range, and the Vestax Pcv-175. All awesome product!! I'll throw in the Numark TT-200 as an EXCELLENT budget turntable. I had mine for about 7 years without a problem at all!!

[Irrational_Fear]

I just can't get over the looks of those Numark TTX's, just a bit too futuristic looking for my liking- I must be getting old! :lol: That being said I've heard some cracking things about them, and an aquaintance of mine also swears by them ahead of technics.

On the subject of budget TTs, I still use a Gemini SA600mk2 that I purchased way back in 2001. Weighs a ton, has never once let me down, and most importantly the motor doesn't wet itself when you hold a record still on it. Looks almost identical to a 1210 (just with a straight tone-arm), and performs just as a TT should but with no bells & whistles. I have no shame in admitting I will probably pick up another (second hand) at some point- mine is currently a 3rd deck to my CDJs- but I should be aquiring a decent vinyl collection from a mate shortly so it will be good to have an out & out traditional vinyl setup- with twin Gemini TTs!

The picture (Note this was from when I had it setup to digitise some of my older vinyl records, before anyone asks about this odd setup!):

http://inlinethumb05.webshots.com/49988/2911790250106739841S425x425Q85.jpg

Note the old "Phonic" mixer too, that was my mixer from when I first started- still in daily use, just not for DJing.

[DJ Donnie Lewis]

A friend has one of these and when we meet up with a bunch of other friends to go clubbing he brings it and his laptop and some speakers along and we have a party in the hotel before heading off to the club... it's a good piece of kit for the price.

Another friend has the M-Audio Torq Xponent which is probably better but considerably more expensive. I don't think the bang-per-buck ratio works in the Xponent's favour though.

Shit I've seen the xponent going for less then 200$ on eBay. Actually bought one brand new shipped for 185 as a ceremony setup.

[ampnation]

Cheap PA system with a good rep - I owned this but didn't use it much just because I wasn't gigging much and I had QSC and JBL SRX stuff as my primary, but tested it out and it is very nice for the price.

B52 Matrix 1000 v2. It's like buying a very good 15" powered subwoofer and getting the 10" tops thrown in for free in my opinion. The amp for all 3 is built into the sub as the tops are passive.

http://www.b-52pro.com/display/Products/Matrix1000V2.jpg

Behringer EP series amps have a reputation as a solid knockoff of QSC RMX series amps.

http://altomusic.com/shop/images/product/ep4000-4c4797009f0627fe4b1dfa59707f2719.jpg

For cables and adapters, monoprice (http://www.monoprice.com/)is a great source with excellent value. They sell 25' XLR cables for $11.56 and they're built solid. To get better, you have to spend at least 2x as much, probably more.

[Young Red]

Cheap DJ gear still works fine. It's what i started with and i must admit that it was kicking. It's better to start with something cheap and upgrade later. Here is an article with equipment that would let you start rocking on a budget. (http://www.squidoo.com/how-to-start-djing-on-a-budjet)

[fueledbymusic]

This can not get any cooler than this for $26.99

http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee435/fueledbymusic/mOhpkCjSx6lULWkewc_wHBg.jpg


http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee435/fueledbymusic/DSC02451.jpg

http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee435/fueledbymusic/DSC02450.jpg

[drzinc]

This can not get any cooler than this for $26.99

http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee435/fueledbymusic/mOhpkCjSx6lULWkewc_wHBg.jpg


http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee435/fueledbymusic/DSC02451.jpg

http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee435/fueledbymusic/DSC02450.jpg

I have 2 of these and I use them at almost every gig I do. I use them with my ADJ H2o led to make a cheap bliss knockoff...

http://imageshack.us/a/img337/3557/fakebliss.jpg

[Eggy]

Is $600 for a set of new Numark TTX a good price?

Also, can craigslist sellers be trusted....?

[Hausgeist]

Is $600 for a set of new Numark TTX a good price?

If they are brand new.

[Eggy]

If they are brand new.

apparently they are... I just get really nervous buying high priced items on Craigslist.

Also, new member here. I am hoping to specialize in Japanese hip hop, but really have no idea where to begin in terms of equipment... I scoured the internet but opinions vary so significantly that I still find myself totally confused as to whether to pick CDJ or a regular vinyl deck... All I want to do is mix tracks and share good music with the world. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Anyway, sorry to get sidetracked.

[Hausgeist]

I mean brand new, never opened with a manufacturer's warranty - not a re-purchase from an individual.

[Kyle Herring]

I was looking at CDJ-200's and a Xone:32, but after reading through this thread I've got my eye on Numark Axis9's and a Denon DN-X120. Shaved $800 off the total price, so I'd have more money to buy tunes with :slayer:

[djnicksilver]

what would be good midi controller to start with that will hold up good on gigs that wont kill the pockets

[Pangeah]

Traktor S2

[DJalphadogg]

are we talking like djing for music or scratching cause i would like to know about that :)

[drzinc]

The most rugged inexpensive midi controllers are the Hercules RMX (non scratching) Hercules 4-MX scratching and 4 deck control and the upcoming RMXII

[den1213]

Nice Pair of DJ headphones; Allen and Heath XONE XD-40. I use these for everyday use as well as practicing my DJ Skillz at home and at smaller gigs. Nice treble and mid balance as well as acceptable low range sound. You can buy now on amazon or ebay between 49.99 and 69.99! Pretty affordable for a DJ gear headphone.

[jme34]

right now i own one stanton t62 TT, one kam khd410 usb player, and a gemini ps02 mixer. as well as this i often use an ipod on a phono lead and some how mix that in as well. im looking to do a bit of standardizing of the setup, but with 500 quid theres limited options, one being the stanton scs 4dj, a second being a pair of gemini cdj250s and finally, possibly buying a pair of technics (secondhand).

my problem is, if i buy the stanton, although its all-in-one, i still need to keep a mixer and TT for mixing in vinyl as its built in mixer has no extra inputs.
if i bought the cdjs i would keep both the kam usb and the stanton tt, thus taking up MORE space and looking mssier than when i started
and obviously the downside of using two TTs is that records are very expensive!

so what would you do?? or any better suggestions??

[DJWhiteChoco]

My first DJ Setup was American Audio Pro Scratch... These were my work horse for years... until I went digital! The scratch sounded like shiz but all in all it played the music well and did its job. http://www.wikizic.org/American-DJ-Pro-Scratch-1/gallery-1.htm

[jdtheishman]

Hi guys! The Harbinger HX152 double-15's are the bombest sounding low budget tops EVER! OK I got a little excited, but really, I went to GC and bought them during a holiday sale. I copped the two tops and two Harbinger HX118S 18 inch subs. When I heard them in the store, they were next to the JBL JRX125's. My man Mike at the store was telling me not to underestimate the sound of the Harbinger. He actually played each different set with the same Crown amps. Now don't get me wrong, there was a difference in the sound. But honestly, it was not that noticeable, especially considering the $150-200 difference in price, per unit. With tops and subs it came out to be about a $900 difference. I took a chance with it and I'm happy I did. Nice crispy sound, nice bottom...nice build...kinda like my ex-girlfriend :D

These are nice entry level - mid level/performing speakers. Great for light jobs or three-times-a-monthers. I don't always go mobile. But when I do, I prefer Harbinger...or is it Dos Equis...:squint:

[fueledbymusic]

I heard a lot of crap about the JBL JRX line speaker systems...

Just on Saturday. I went to a wedding party. The DJ had all JRX speakers. 2 15" tops and 2 JBL JRX subs as well.
When I first saw them, I knew right away they were JRX models. (by the way they look). So I was assuming they are gonna sound crappy based on everybody's (in DFM anyway) say about them. So going onto the night, and DJ starts pumping the music! And to my surprise they sounded good (to me anyway)! Lots of power and even bass too. Or at least I can really feel it anyway. Sometimes I feel people exaggerate too much around here.

And today, I was at Best Buy. There, they had some 15" Eon tops and an Eon sub as well. I heard them. And even here, they sound good to me! Lots of power too! DAMN! If I liked the way those EONs sound, I can imagine how the "bigger boy" lines sound (like PXR or the SRX)

SO! If someone is to ask me. "Would you buy those? My answer to that will be "YES, I would!" Basing on my hearing of them, I would! I really liked how they sound, for being JRX (for Jerks) and EON (for Peons). Although, I would prefer to buy them used. As to save me money!

[brian102]

Anyone used any pyle pro audio stuff? I was looking at their rack mount wireless mic. Just cant afford a shure

[drzinc]

Anyone used any pyle pro audio stuff? I was looking at their rack mount wireless mic. Just cant afford a shure

Avoid Pyle Pro if you are on a budget look here....

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/2x100-Ch-UHF-Wireless-Hand-Held-Microphone-Mic-System-/190535757997?pt=US_Pro_Audio_Microphones&hash=item2c5cd0f0ad

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/GTD-Audio-2x800Ch-UHF-Diversity-Professional-Wireless-Microphone-Mic-System-788-/180974829259?pt=US_Pro_Audio_Microphones&hash=item2a22f0becb

I use this product and so do many here. I have 2 amps and 2 mic systems from them and they are reliable and sound great.

[brian102]

anyone know the dimensions on these? trying to figure out if the antennas are far back enough to reach out of my amp/rack little carrying box i have

[tuurrtles]

VCI-300 with Serato Itch was great to learn on.

[djslik]

Vestax 06 was and still is a great battle mixer, add an innofader and you're golden. DIY Audio or BFM speakers are great if you have tools and knowhow.

[Lazerick]

I don't know if this necessarily counts as budget equipment, but IMO Numark TTX (or TTX-USB) turtables out-perform Technics 1200s and run a couple hundred bucks cheaper each... I own a pair of each and actually use my Numarks for most gigs and keep the Technics as a backup pair

http://www.sonicftp.com/news/images/numark_ttxusb.jpg
I second this - I owned a pair of the TTX1 - loved them, the only reason I sold them was because I was offered a fantastic deal on a pair of the Tech M5G's

[Lazerick]

Is $600 for a set of new Numark TTX a good price?

Also, can craigslist sellers be trusted....?


If they are brand new.


I mean brand new, never opened with a manufacturer's warranty - not a re-purchase from an individual.
^^ This

[aleph]

Torq with connectiv and Vynil control :dance:

I recently unpacked my TT gear (it had been mostly out of commission for the past 6 years) and I was surprised to see how well this thing still works. By miracle I was able to unlock the old serial number upgrade to 1.5 and everything seems to be on good working order in Windows 7
For less than $200 it's insane the quality DVS you could get

[hotspur]

goin 2 buy or son his first set of decks for christmas, not sure wot 2 buy, lookin if anybody would like to give advise, hve looked into buying the Numark iCDMIX3 Dual MP3 / CD Player Mixer and iPod Dock, can u tell me if this is any good if not wot buy

[ampnation]

This is a long thread so not sure if I mentioned this earlier. For PA, if you're just beginning and doing smaller gigs, you can't go wrong with the B52 Matrix 1000 v2. You get a 15" sub and two 10" tops, all powered by amps built into the sub, for about the price of an entry level subwoofer.

[Notyetpro]

This is a long thread so not sure if I mentioned this earlier. For PA, if you're just beginning and doing smaller gigs, you can't go wrong with the B52 Matrix 1000 v2. You get a 15" sub and two 10" tops, all powered by amps built into the sub, for about the price of an entry level subwoofer.

With a compact controller (like the S2) how would you wire the outputs to the Matrix 1000 v2. set? Would you split up the XLR inputs on the sub between the RCA channels on the controller? Or would you wire the XLR inputs to the 2 1/4" TRS outputs?

Would wiring an XLR connection to an RCA connection even work?

[jmac]

Are there any good sub-£500 scratch mixers these days? There used to be a few, but DJ gear seems to have shot way up in price over the last few years.

So is there? Or am I better off buying a lower end mixer that accepts innofader?

[Krynox]

I'm just starting out now and I'm thinking of getting the Denon MC-3000 MIDI Controller. Is it a good idea or a bad one?

[ampnation]

With a compact controller (like the S2) how would you wire the outputs to the Matrix 1000 v2. set? Would you split up the XLR inputs on the sub between the RCA channels on the controller? Or would you wire the XLR inputs to the 2 1/4" TRS outputs?

Would wiring an XLR connection to an RCA connection even work?

Sorry I didn't see this before. IIRC the S2 has TRS master outs. In that case, I would simply run TRS 1/4" male to XLR male cables to the Matrix. I don't remember the Matrix having RCA inputs, but even if it does have them, I wouldn't use them unless the source was right there within about 3 feet of the sub. I could see this for non-DJ events like maybe running a playlist off of an iPod.

If your controller doesn't have any balanced outputs, then I would either place the controller as close as I could to the Matrix sub (10 feet of cable at the very most) or get either a mixer or isolation transformer to convert the unbalanced signal to balanced before it travels across the distance. A Peavey PV6 or ART DTI would be good choices here. About the least expensive controller I know of with balanced outs is the original RMX at $200 or less. (although they don't make it super obvious that those are TRS vs. TS 1/4" master outs)

[NollProcent]

As a beginner who's never tried any other equipment - or even DJed for real yet - I really love the M-Audio Xponent. Got a new one from thomann.de for about €150, with a pair of mediocre headphones. It's really intuitive, low-latency and with lots of flashing lights! ;-) I'd recommend it to other beginners, if you can find one at the same price. Seems they're usually a lot more expensive.

[jz416]

Personally i wouldnt wish M - Audio on my worst enemy.
My firewire mixer from m audio originally retailed for 700 bucks, cant even use two firewire channels at one time without one crackling. BRB Using my 700 dollar mixer to split Mono Signals and send one to my phones.

[ampnation]

Personally i wouldnt wish M - Audio on my worst enemy.
My firewire mixer from m audio originally retailed for 700 bucks, cant even use two firewire channels at one time without one crackling. BRB Using my 700 dollar mixer to split Mono Signals and send one to my phones.

I think there might be some major problems there, although not sure which products affected how. My 2 mobilepre were fine till recently. I think I just need to adjust an audio setting somewhere since I get no output from either. But when Avid sold to inAudio (not sure that's the name. Going from memory) some products went to the new company, some stayed with Avid, and some got abandoned, so virtually no support for my interfaces now it seems. The forum is still there but only OP questions with no other activity. I can't afford to go buying another right now.


Sent from my ADR6350 using Tapatalk 2

[punky]

M-Audio Xponent. I am still rocking this, and it's going on 5 years. Works great. LEDs in every button for crazy Traktor MIDI mappers like me. And you can find it for $200 at some places. It's an absolute steal.

[punky]

As a beginner who's never tried any other equipment - or even DJed for real yet - I really love the M-Audio Xponent. Got a new one from thomann.de for about €150, with a pair of mediocre headphones. It's really intuitive, low-latency and with lots of flashing lights! ;-) I'd recommend it to other beginners, if you can find one at the same price. Seems they're usually a lot more expensive.

With ya on that.

Sorry to hear the NRV didn't work out for you, jz. I've heard good things and bad things about them. Since they're firewire, if you're on PC, it might be your firewire chip (the TI chipset comes very highly recommended, but non-TI chipsets can introduce a variety of issues).

If you're on Mac though, I don't have any answers for you. :(

[entheos406]

Avoid Pyle Pro if you are on a budget look here....

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/2x100-Ch-UHF-Wireless-Hand-Held-Microphone-Mic-System-/190535757997?pt=US_Pro_Audio_Microphones&hash=item2c5cd0f0ad

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/GTD-Audio-2x800Ch-UHF-Diversity-Professional-Wireless-Microphone-Mic-System-788-/180974829259?pt=US_Pro_Audio_Microphones&hash=item2a22f0becb

I use this product and so do many here. I have 2 amps and 2 mic systems from them and they are reliable and sound great.


I got the $160 dual mic set. The older version with the round capsule that looks like a Shure knock off. Very boomy. Sound like you are mumbling. Pops a lot. Handling noise. Excellent range, but if you bump that receiver it will hum and buzz so much you have to throw it away. Got another receiver, must have gotten bumped in shipping because it has a small buzz to it. hides in the mix if you have any sound going but no music just for a toast... Sounds crappy. People look at you like, "Don't you hear that buzz? Make it stop."

[Macbookproi5]

The Numark DM-06 - I had one of these and played on it daily for two years without issue, it was a great mixer,
I'm thinking about buying another as a back up.

http://images.guitarcenter.com/products/optionLarge/Numark/DV016_Jpg_Large_637003_R.jpg

You hook this up to the turntables right? I'm actually just a beginner. Do I need to buy turntables and much better controllers as well?

[threezero]

any good budget cdj or turntable recommendation? something i can pick up for under $300 a pair?

[Windows 95]

You hook this up to the turntables right? I'm actually just a beginner. Do I need to buy turntables and much better controllers as well?You're better off sticking with your MixTrack & buying an audio interface.
http://www.guitarcenter.com/Native-Instruments-Traktor-Audio-2-106861610-i2011622.gc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJBDMGqeKkY


And cheap powered speakers.
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Logitech+-+Z313+2.1-Channel+Speaker+System+(3-Piece)+-+Black/Silver/9427774.p?id=1218104302605

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XH6RipAjKKM

[DJmarkman181]

I have been using Numark for quite a few years and it seems to be very affordable and reliable equipment. I have only had a few issues and they were all easily and quickly fixed at a very affordable cost if any. Yorkville are a great comany for speakers and so easy to use. I am always on craigs list or Kijiji and I always find great buys!

[launder]

I'm buying the ddj sx pioneer kit but can i have reccomendations for mid level speakers and a mid level amp around a total of £500-800

[Catch22]

http://www.reloop.com/media/catalog/product/2/2/4/224092_Reloop_TP.png

This is a quality budget mixer. Only get LE with it, but I bought Pro and it's easily worth the money. Get EQ kills and the jog wheels are extremely similar to CDJs so quite if you want to learn how to beatmatch on something similar to CDJs. Obviously the pitch faders are quite small, but can just press sync to make the BPMs the same and then beat match after wards.

Akai LPD8 also, mapped this drumpad to traktor, basically to use a 3rd/sample deck.

[DJ Difficult]

If you match the bpm by sync button it's practically the same thing than just use it on the fly. Biggest challenge in beatmatching is to get both tracks run at the same speed.
Short pitchfader does not prevent you to beatmatch.

[Catch22]

If you match the bpm by sync button it's practically the same thing than just use it on the fly. Biggest challenge in beatmatching is to get both tracks run at the same speed.
Short pitchfader does not prevent you to beatmatch.

Makes it hell of a lot harder trying to adjust the tracks bpm compared to doing it on CDJs!

[MC Noah]

Are these with buying for 200 ? They are used and ill just be getting the tables

http://www.numark.com/product/battlepakv4

[Windows 95]

Are these with buying for 200 ? They are used and ill just be getting the tables

http://www.numark.com/product/battlepakv4$100 would be a more fair price.
http://www.guitarcenter.com/In-Store-Used-USED-NUMARK-TT1625-1-17-108521864-i2945181.gc

[MC Noah]

Wow thank you. Are these ok to learn on until I can buy technics?

[Windows 95]

Wow thank you. Are these ok to learn on until I can buy technics?For mixing, yes. For scratching, it's possible, but you'll probably want to start with something better.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lo_whLevCS0

[DJ Difficult]

I have these http://www.stantondj.com/stanton-turntables/t92usb.html
Founded them in very good price (200€/pair) 2ndhanded and they are worth every cent.

[finalcoyote]

^ T92's are great tables, IMO.

This is a great thread b-t-dubs

[DJASIANNOOB]

Is the Numark Mixtrack Pro a good beginners controller?

[contra]

Is the Numark Mixtrack Pro a good beginners controller?

For beginners yes. It has a good layout, built in soundcard, and pretty much all of the functions you'd need as a beginner. And now that the pro2 is out, you'll be able to find them for a good price too.

[DJ-Tech UK]

hope you dont mind me throwing this in here - DJ-Tech DIF-1S Mixer with innoFADER only £99 in UK - www.dj-tech.co.uk (http://www.dj-tech.co.uk)

Just check the review from DJ-Worx (http://djworx.com/review-dj-tech-dif-1s-scratch-mixer/)

Also check out the video - you tube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=vFieNNBTEPY)

Should also be available in the US by now...

[talltrini10]

hope you dont mind me throwing this in here - DJ-Tech DIF-1S Mixer with innoFADER only £99 in UK - www.dj-tech.co.uk (http://www.dj-tech.co.uk)

Just check the review from DJ-Worx (http://djworx.com/review-dj-tech-dif-1s-scratch-mixer/)

Also check out the video - you tube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=vFieNNBTEPY)

Should also be available in the US by now...

Have been looking for this, but can't find it anywhere in the US yet - any suggestions?

[Chrome Knobs]

Traktor pro 2 and Traktor S2 a great controller & program for a dj on a low budget.

499.99 for a 2 channel mixer has multiple FX and the sound quality is great.

[contra]

Have been looking for this, but can't find it anywhere in the US yet - any suggestions?

I thought the demo unit was just showed at NAAM. Usually it takes a couple months from the tech shows until full release.

[TIMMBO]

Just purchased myself some stantons str8-150 for my first real set of deck for years. currently using some terrible old KAMS until they arrive. They are also coming with stanton blue dj Concorde style cartridges and stylus twin pack.
Paid £450 delivered. Not sure if this is a great price but really looking forward to getting on some highly rated decks and dusting off my vinyl.

[BloodHunterzz]

iam gona buy the ddj-ergo-k as first mixtable :D
http://www.pioneer-store.nl/ddj-ergok-ddjergobag

[drzinc]

Ok another great budget controller.
4 deck control built in sound interface full dj software and only $200
http://www.behringer.com/EN/Products/CMD-STUDIO-4A.aspx

[thehadgi]

Shure 57/58's. 'budget' only in price

Sure mics go up into thousands, but even with those high end ones everyone pretty much still has a couple around for a huge variety of uses

[BloodHunterzz]

Ok another great budget controller.
4 deck control built in sound interface full dj software and only $200
http://www.behringer.com/EN/Products/CMD-STUDIO-4A.aspx

The ergo-k is stil better quality ;)

[drzinc]

The ergo-k is stil better quality ;)

It better be at $500, we are talking budget equipment here.

[Baller95]

Ok another great budget controller.
4 deck control built in sound interface full dj software and only $200
http://www.behringer.com/EN/Products/CMD-STUDIO-4A.aspx

That's an amazing deal! Looks pretty nice too :tup:

[EvanRose]

well... so what should i buy
midi control or Mixer
and which is best

[KLH]

well... so what should i buy
midi control or Mixer
and which is best
This entire thread gives you the options so that YOU can make that decision.

-KLH

[EvanRose]

Pioneer and Numark
Midi control and Mixer how to choose
in $50~$300

[Dash K Lisbon]

Pioneer and Numark
Midi control and Mixer how to choose
in $50~$300

The numark for me, is more ergonomic and easy to use. And easy mappable for Traktor.. The Pioneer i've never tried, but if you want to start and take care of the equipment, i think the numark mixtrack 2 is the way to go.

[DJ-Tech UK]

Just in case there are still any doubters out there on the DIF-1s - Scratch Italian Style (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TvzBl3jdfCY&feature=youtu.be)

[contra]

Um no doubters, we just want them to come out in Canada!!

[Spainkiller]

My recommendation for this thread...

Sennheiser HD 205 headphones

http://www.sennheiser.co.uk/uk/home_en.nsf/root/professional_headphones-headsets_dj-headphones_500263

http://www.sennheiser.co.uk/sennheiser/products.nsf/resources/AC671C94A4A9A976C1257482003E0F99/$File/HD205_ProductImage.jpg


No. I had those. They broke after less than a year of light use.

[Spainkiller]

iam gona buy the ddj-ergo-k as first mixtable :D
http://www.pioneer-store.nl/ddj-ergok-ddjergobag

I just did that! Picking mine up tomorrow :)

[contra]

No. I had those. They broke after less than a year of light use.

I'm with Gareth on this one. Mine are going pretty good. I've said this in another thread though, I wouldn't recommend them for someone with a big head. Luckily I have a very thin head and they're nice and snug :D

[MC Noah]

Thank you very much!!!!

[Roshanbhoj]

No. I had those. They broke after less than a year of light use.

Those were my first pair of headphones and they worked well. They might seem a little flimsy but they get the job done. I throw them in my gig bag all the time and I haven't had any problems. I still have them today working great and use them as back up headphones. For their price their a good pair phones. I'd recommend them.

[robdquick]

I've had a set of HD205's now for over a year, no problems at all! For mobile DJ use, they get pretty loud, are fairly comfy and won't break the bank!

[Azaex]

Monoprice 8323 headphones. I can vouch for my pair, got them after reading some reviews over at Head-Fi and other places around the web. They're supposedly rebranded HP541's by a company called Kicker, and they're stupidly cheap at ~$30 US. A little bassy, has removable cables, earcups articulate, and nice isolation. Used them as makeshift earpro while using a dremel once, hah, not the most elegant solution but they worked decently. Only annoying part is that there's no soundstage (that 3d'ish headphone effect), and the three pads at the top dig into your head after awhile. Some people found that adding aftermarket pads like this (http://www.amazon.com/Replacement-Leatherette-Universal-Sennheiser-Beyerdynamic/dp/B00862522A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1365305891&sr=8-1&keywords=headphone+cushion) alleviate the problem, but I find that they make it kind of bulky and just learned to live with em >.<. Still, good to check out imo

[Robby Luca]

I have a Numark M6 USB mixer. Very cheap! 150$ (if I remember correctly). It's very simple, just has its EQs, faders, and basic functions, nothing more. I mainly got it because its cheap and has 4 channels. It does the job.

[lilblondedj]

I am definitely a beginner DJ and know very little. I just bought the Numark Mixtrack Pro and was wondering what you guys think of this, if any of you at all, have even used it. Please let me know if its a piece of shit. :) I was told that this mixer is good for home practice. I thought it would be a good buy for now because it was only $175, and I needed something cheaper until I get better. Let me know what ya think!

[tonyhibbert321]

cheapest cd decks? anyone know any companies frim uk who do good deals? or midi controllers, but heard they arent very good.

[LISA LEFTFOOT]

Hi i finally bought myself a set of decks, have gemini xl 500 II and PS - 626x mixer off ebay and just wondering whats the best carts n stylus for them? and where to buy??

[Windows 95]

Hi i finally bought myself a set of decks, have gemini xl 500 II and PS - 626x mixer off ebay and just wondering whats the best carts n stylus for them? and where to buy?? The Shure SC35C is a good low cost DJ cart. They run about $40 each in the USA.

I don't know any of the British sites, but this site has them listed at £72.49 for a pair. (They're currently out of stock.)
http://www.juno.co.uk/products/shure-sc35c-standard-dj-cartridge-stylus-pair/493043-01/

[LISA LEFTFOOT]

Hi, thanks for replying, ordered few bits last night and this morning, cant wait for the postie to get here so i can finally play on my new toys :)

The Shure SC35C is a good low cost DJ cart. They run about $40 each in the USA.

I don't know any of the British sites, but this site has them listed at £72.49 for a pair. (They're currently out of stock.)
http://www.juno.co.uk/products/shure-sc35c-standard-dj-cartridge-stylus-pair/493043-01/

[MrB]

I am definitely a beginner DJ and know very little. I just bought the Numark Mixtrack Pro and was wondering what you guys think of this, if any of you at all, have even used it. Please let me know if its a piece of shit. :) I was told that this mixer is good for home practice. I thought it would be a good buy for now because it was only $175, and I needed something cheaper until I get better. Let me know what ya think!

I have not been djing very long (about 5 months now) but I did have the the Mixtrack Pro to start out on too. I believe it is very good to start out on. It has all of the basic stuff you could learn on, a built in audio interface, etc. When doing my research it was basically the best bang for your buck starting hardware for a beginner dj. However, the software that you get( Serato LE) is a little bit limiting at least from what I found. You can't record directly from the software (although there is a way around that), but I found that to be the biggest set back. But then again I guess what could you expect from LE software.

[punky]

My Tapco Thump TH-15As are some really solid, well put together powered speakers. Hard to find better in the price range.

[yoone]

Numark Mixtrack is pretty good for a starter midi controller. Had to map stuff cause it was pretty limited but after the mapping, works pretty solid! Not that I would know much about Djing I guess I am still an amateur... :P

[Eggy]

I'm absolutely loving my Pioneer DDJ-SX. Best value there is IMO

[MrB]

I love my new NI S2. Depends on the persons definition of "budget" but I believe its priced fairly priced and I think it has great bang-for-buck value. As long as the person wants to use tractor, that is..

[alencr]

Hello everyone.
I want to buy my first mixer and which mixer is the best? Thr are all under 80$ (things are expensive here in Croatia) and I will try to make some money soon and maybe buy a mixer and a pair of cd players on the local (used) market. Here is what I found so far:
Numark DM1050
Numark M101
Behringer VMX200
Numark M3
Numark DM1002EX

And is it possible to record audio with these? Feel free to share some more devices under the 100$ mark.. I think 2 channels are enough for noww because I am to search som about cd players, heard the Pioneer CDJ100's are OK to start with? And buying the CDJ's and the mixer will really stretch out my budget as I want to work in the winter (I am in high school 2nd year)

Thanks!

[alencr]

Can I use the Numark M3 or DM1050 with a PC?
I think I will have soon money for them and I won't have enough for turntables or cd players.

[Windows 95]

Can I use the Numark M3 or DM1050 with a PC?Depends on what you mean by that.
You can use any mixer with a PC if you're talking about using one channel as an input from the PC.

[fueledbymusic]

Hello everyone.
I want to buy my first mixer and which mixer is the best? Thr are all under 80$ (things are expensive here in Croatia) and I will try to make some money soon and maybe buy a mixer and a pair of cd players on the local (used) market. Here is what I found so far:
Numark DM1050
Numark M101
Behringer VMX200
Numark M3
Numark DM1002EX

And is it possible to record audio with these? Feel free to share some more devices under the 100$ mark.. I think 2 channels are enough for noww because I am to search som about cd players, heard the Pioneer CDJ100's are OK to start with? And buying the CDJ's and the mixer will really stretch out my budget as I want to work in the winter (I am in high school 2nd year)

Thanks!
I have a Numark M2. Paid $50 for it. And it actually sounds better than an American Audio QD6 I had. So the M3 would be good. It allows to hook up 4 lines, not just 2. The 1050 I think is an older one, Numark is pretty standard in the DJ world.

[Windows 95]

Numark is pretty standard in the DJ world.Rane mixers, Pioneer mixers, and A&H mixers, sure.
But Numark mixers? Not so much.

Numark's mixers are a mixed bag. Some models are really good for the price, some models are lemons.

[alencr]

I want to use a mixer with Virtual DJ or some other (possibly free?) software for a beginning because as I have said before I won't have enough money for CD players (I would prefer CDJ100's for a start) and everything is pricier even used in my country and internet buying is a problem for me atm.

[alencr]

And I want PC input for both channels.

[SlvrDragon50]

Just get a digital DJing controller. It's way cheaper than trying to get CDJs.

You need a sound card for the Numark M3, and you can't mix with only a mixer unless you will be using your computer/keyboard to cue and whatnot.

[Windows 95]

I want to use a mixer with Virtual DJ or some other (possibly free?) software for a beginning because as I have said before I won't have enough money for CD players (I would prefer CDJ100's for a start) and everything is pricier even used in my country and internet buying is a problem for me atm.

And I want PC input for both channels.

What you need to be looking at is a controller, not a mixer.

Something like:
Numark Mixtrack II ($140 in the USA.)
Virtual DJ LE (audio/video/karaoke) software comes included.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxNZSYGB9BM

[fueledbymusic]

Rane mixers, Pioneer mixers, and A&H mixers, sure.
But Numark mixers? Not so much.

Numark's mixers are a mixed bag. Some models are really good for the price, some models are lemons.Numark mixers are pretty standard budget mixer in the DJ world. They been around for ages. Numark is a common name.

[alencr]

Ok then.
Now I realise that DJing will be less cheaper than I thought.
So are there any good budget cd players for begginers? I think I won't go ths way and I will save up some more and buy a mixer and 2 cd players and practice on that.

[fueledbymusic]

Ok then.
Now I realise that DJing will be less cheaper than I thought.
So are there any good budget cd players for begginers? I think I won't go ths way and I will save up some more and buy a mixer and 2 cd players and practice on that. I own a pair of American Audio CDI300s, They been good to me for the last 3 years. Although I wish they had some kind of Sync button..... HAHA LOL:lol:. BUT really though, it would be nice if they had some kind of USB reader. But these CD players do play CDs with MP3s. And it has the "scratch" feature.

This is just me though, I never tried other CD playes, so I can't recommend any since I don't know the others. A competitor of this CD player would be the Numark 400.

[Vernski]

I'm a proud owner of a DDJ-WeGO, it has served me well - even got me through to the 3rd round of the DJ Forum Trance Tournament!!!!!:slayer:

[Vernski]

A budget gear thread! Oh, sweet mother of pearl! Thank you!

http://i40.tinypic.com/2ekp65h.jpg

I have a seriously sick fetish for a budget home setup. Check this out:

Numark tt-100 turntables: $50.00 each (used)
Numark Axis 4 cd decks: $79 each (brand new with warranty)
Numark dxm06: $50 (used)

Total cost: $308.00

Of course, I spent money on the ancillaries like carts and headphones (which cost almost as much as the entire setup :lol:) and some other custom stuff.

I absolutely love this setup, and it does everything I need it to do for knocking around in the house. The cd players are a relatively new addition, but I have been using those turntables for over a year. The 100s' actual age is probably somewhere around seven to nine years old, considering those things were discontinued in 2002. The sweet part is that if I decide to sell this stuff before it breaks, I paid so little that I will get most, if not all, of my money back. My little piece of budget heaven looks like this:

http://i1033.photobucket.com/albums/a415/DJ_Hausgeist/Finalgreat.jpg

I realize I posted this pic in the setup thread, but imo it bears repeating here.

Sick Lava Lamps...I wasn't too sure about the set up, but those lamps got me over the line :lol:

[alencr]

I think I will go with the Numark DXM06 because it has just so many functions for a good price and it isn't shit :)

[alencr]

And the mixer is 24bit digital and also I read that it has 2 sound cards. Now I really think I have a favourite!
Couple that with VDJ Free (I didn't really explore other free options..) and I have a relatively inexpensive way of learning and mixing.. :)

[Jrausch]

Has anyone taken a look into the Hercules line? Found about 5 or 6 different models on amazon. Here's the link. Looking for something to start out with. http://www.amazon.com/Hercules-DJ-Control-Instinct-Controller/dp/B0087DTP9O/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1384811281&sr=8-3&keywords=dj+mixer

[SlvrDragon50]

Theyre nice budget controllers.

I think the Numark is better though.

[alencr]

Do you mean the DXM06 or Numark controllers in general? :)

[SlvrDragon50]

The Numark Mixtrack Pro.

[Jrausch]

Well, what do you think is the best buy all around for under $250 for a beginning DJ?

[Jrausch]

I just found this...anyone want to give an opinion on this? http://www.numark.com/product/stealthcontrol

[drzinc]

I just found this...anyone want to give an opinion on this? http://www.numark.com/product/stealthcontrol

In it's time it was a great controller comparable to the Hercules Steele. You can not scratch on this (the wheels are not touch sensitive) and there is no sound card so figure that into your price (having to get a sound card).

[akela]

http://img4.uploadhouse.com/fileuploads/18707/1870799493202127c724257e49f9e9a6eb219bb2.jpg

Been using this Hercules controller for a greater part of two years. has paid itself of many, many times over and it will not break the bank. Sounds awesome too!

[Sideburns69]

http://www.disco-dj-lighting-equipment-hire.com/numark/dm1001x.jpg

My first mixer, rest of my equipment sucked, but that little bugger kept going. I think its still in a box in the basement and last time I tried it after ~13 years it still worked
This is the same as the one I use every time , pretty much idiot-proof and does the job :)

[fueledbymusic]

I like my Numark M2 mixer! $50 used.

[Jrausch]

Hey guys! Happy new year, and I found the best of deals I think. http://www.ebay.com/itm/American-Audio-VMS4-MIDI-USB-DJ-Controller-Used-/360812367671?pt=US_Digital_DJ_Controllers&hash=item540217cf37This is an AA VMS4 controller, factory refurbished for $200. I got one and it is exactly what the doctor ordered and more, and it is indeed factory refurbished. An absolutely amazing deal.

[Azaex]

I just finished moving up to some better gear (NS6, also got HD 25-1 II's for Christmas!), but I used to run a Numark Mixtrack (~$100) with Traktor (~$80). The Mixtrack is actually pretty nice, and you can go far with Traktor mappings as I found out (shameless self plug, before I fully switched to NS6 I worked out this mapping (https://maps.djtechtools.com/mappings/1594), I'm still trying to properly implement its loop roll section now).
I also ran Monoprice Model 8323 DJ Headphones (~$30), which worked decently well. ~Neutral cans with a bassy kick, though there is absolutely no soundstage. Works alright for beat matching, but I will admit I'm starting to have a lot more fun with the HD 25-1 II's on...

asdf I need to motivate myself to get on the decks more though. No equipment is a substitute for good amounts of practice and preparation. problem is I have too many hobbies...need to pick one and charge full steam ahead at it :freak:

[Elpuntazza]

Hi all :) i' m an italian guy who has listened to edm music for 3 years. So now i want to start djing. I need a console with these features:
-Under 300 euros. But if there is a 170 euros console that works as a 270 one, why don't i buy the first one? ;)
-Only for mixing (not for scratching :) )
-With a built in audio interface.
-Solid construction that alllows it to last long time!
-Maybe something easy to use
-Maybe something that i can resell in case of changing my setup.
-I used virtual dj, tracktor and serato both, and i like them.
I've been searching for a lot of time on the web for something that suits my requests. I've found 4 different controllers for me:
-behringer cmd studio 4a. 199 euros
-Pioneer ddj sb. I think that pioneer brand is a sort of assurance. 250 euros
-Denon mc3000. very good one, but maybe its a bit old!300 euros
-Gemini g2v. It seems like a very professional controller and i love it. But i know that gemini brend is a sort of low- cost one, and i dont want problems with it!300 euros
Please help me cause tomorrow i'm going to order ;)
c u

[Elpuntazza]

up ;)

[alencr]

Hello everyone. I came here a bit before.

Now I know a little more about DJing and equipment.

Here's what I plan to get this year given if I get to make some money until and during summer.

I want to get a Mixtrack Pro 1 or 2, max. budget for a controller would be $200.

And for monitors I would really like to get something in lines of KRK Rokit 5 or Tannoy Reveal 501A so again, budget here is $200.

And would I be able to DJ with Sony PS-LX250H turntables I see they are quite cheap going on eBay for only $20! And I can't plug the turntables in low-end controllers under $200?
But never mind that, I could get a cheap mixer under $100 for that, right? Any reccomendations for turntables under max. $100?

So, I would then need to make $600. :(
Then add those less important things like audio cards if the audio interface is cheap or doesn't exist, cables, blabla..

But I think I may pull it off. I have an insured job in the summer (my high school requires students to have 84hrs of work during summer in companies in graphic design and I worked in a company printing T-Shirts and I made friends with the boss and everyone there. :D )

[alencr]

I have to BUMP this.

I think I can buy the Mixtrack Pro first and then add up on that.

Can someone tell me what is the best controller under max $200?
But of course, I don't have that much money atm but I will make some money soon I think.

[alencr]

BUMP?
I really can't decide which controller is the best.
I have a few of them in my mind:

Numark Mixtrack Pro is the minimum I want.
Around the same price I get Hercules DJ Air and Instinct.
And really streching my non-existing budget the most expensive thing would be the Behringer CMD 4A.

[LJay]

What's your preference for the software?
Mixtrack Pro is for Serato Intro which is a limited version of Serato DJ. Upgrade will cost you another 100€. That's total of 300€. You will not be able to use turntables as the controller has no built in analog mixer.

I believe that even though Vestax VCI300 is a bit old, it still is a solid controller and can be scored from Ebay for 200ish. It's Serato DJ ready out of the box, but it doesn't allow external inputs. I'm actually lurking the Ebay in a hope for a solid cheap backup controller. I own the VCI380.

Behringer's lack of gain pots confuses me and that is a deal breaker for me. Same goes with some low end Pioneers and Hercules'.

If you HAVE to buy NEW Serato controller for LESS than 200, it's either Vestax Typhoon or Mixtrack Pro 2. But I highly recommend you to add atleast 50£€$ to your budget. Pioneer DDJSB is a little less than 250€. You can upgrade to Serato DJ or Traktor Pro later. I think the Pioneer is the lowest I'd go if I'd buy new.

So my recommendation would be either a 2nd hand VCI300 or a new Pioneer DDJ SB. Neither controller allows external inputs though.

The cheapest controller with a mixer built in is AFAIK American Audio VMS2 (220€). I have red some not so pleasing reviews about it though and I've never touched one, so I don't really know about the quality. It doesn't work with Serato DJ either, unless you will hook a Rane SL2/3/4 box to it.

For the decks I wouldn't got anything less than Vestax PDX2000's. They're about 100-150£ each 2nd hand from UK and they're pretty good decks specially for scratching. As they're known to be scratch decks, they're usually sold with good carts too. These decks were the only pro decks people used aside from Technics in the early 2000. Other good 2nd hand models to look for budget wise are Stanton STR8-60/80/90/100, ALL Vestax DJ decks, Numark TT200, TT500, TTX1.

There are really no quality new mixers in 100ish pricerange, so I'd recommend to search for 2nd hand market here too. Or stretch the budget abit. You could hook your turntables to the mixers line inputs and use the controller in the aux/session input. That way you'd have two separated setups, a portable and "old fashioned" way.

Actually American Audio DV2 would be a perfect mixer for a DVS starter mixer for 180€. It has a built in 4x4 sound interface so it's DVS supported by open DVS softwares like Cross DJ. I doesn't work with Serato and needs a little tweaking to get it to work with Traktor Scratch, but if you're open to use a "non industry standard" software it should be a great starter mixer in everyway. Now if you'd go with the Mixvibes Cross route, you wouldn't need to buy Serato DJ, you could use your controller AND the turntables with the software. Make sure that the controller you're buying is also supported by Mixvibes Cross (with a good mapping). You could use the Cross softwares on your laptop if you're gigging at a clubs Pioneers, since they're HID supported by Cross. It also works with every interface, so you could use other DJ's Traktor/SL-boxes as well.

For monitors go for Esi Near8's. They're 220€, smaller Near 5's are 175€.

SUPERBUDGET SCRATCH FRIENDLY PRO DVS+CONTROLLER DJ-SETUP:
2nd hand Vestax PDX2000's (300€)
American Audio DV2 mixer (200€)
Cross software and CV's (150€)
Pioneer DDJ SB (250€)
Esi nEAR5's & cables (200€)
total price.........1100€

[alencr]

I am mostly looking on Amazon.
I think the turntables can wait, firstly I need a controller.
From what I read, Mixtrack Pro and Pro II don't really have much difference and also the Mixtrack and Mixtrack Pro the only difference is audio interface.
And Mixtrack Pro only has 2 channels and that Behringer CMD Studio 4A has 2 channels.
I will thoroughly think about that and I will have time too before I make some money cause I'm broke now.
And I will look that Vestax VCI300 up too.
Thanks!

[diceallion]

Im having a hard time finding locations to buy within Canada... Has the DDJ SB been discontinued?

[diceallion]

Nevermind, just found 1...


However I did also find the Numark IDJ Pro for $375.. Good?

[diceallion]

Guys... lol, you know for someone that makes oh about 50 operational decisions on a daily basis at work.... I'm stumped!!! Seriously Stumped, from reading everyone's comments, and about 100 you tube videos and websites.... MAX budget before taxes is 300$ Please help me decide which controller I should buy... Im going in circles...

DDJ SB
DDJ WEGO
Mix Track Pro2

I don't know...

[diceallion]

Ahhhhhhhhhhh SHIT!!!! Just when I thought I almost knew what to buy... I now understand time code. Back to square1..!!!

[diceallion]

DAMN..... Missed out on DDJ ergo for $400 with serato pro included... seller changed his mind!!!

[Arkay_East]

I am looking to pick up an Old School setup and need some input. I play in a band here in Austin and have a fairly nice vinyl collection. Looking to learn to DJ (beat match etc) on vinyl. Plan to gig occasionally when I'm practiced enough (I already have the connections/network). So yeah .... Nice direct drive tables with minimum bells and whistles, solid mixer? My band already owns a PA. Any input is appreciated.

Maybe SL 1200s of some type? I don't know the differences in all the models. I'm lost on the mixer they all look the same at this point.

Edit : Just found the Vinyl Setup thread!!!

[niarta]

Guys... lol, you know for someone that makes oh about 50 operational decisions on a daily basis at work.... I'm stumped!!! Seriously Stumped, from reading everyone's comments, and about 100 you tube videos and websites.... MAX budget before taxes is 300$ Please help me decide which controller I should buy... Im going in circles...

DDJ SB
DDJ WEGO
Mix Track Pro2

I don't know...

Go with the Mixtrack Pro.
If you're not into the pads they put on the second version, get the original version.

That's what I use, really solid build, comes with EQ, effect buttons, pitch, cue, all the necessities :)

It's built like a tank, except for the EQ knobs, it can go with you to hell and back.

Get it for $155 in the US, and get an 12 foot RCA cable on Ebay for 3 bucks.
http://www.amazon.com/Numark-Mixtrack-Controller-Integrated-Interface/dp/B00466HLWO

Good luck, man! :D

[Rayne]

Guys... lol, you know for someone that makes oh about 50 operational decisions on a daily basis at work.... I'm stumped!!! Seriously Stumped, from reading everyone's comments, and about 100 you tube videos and websites.... MAX budget before taxes is 300$ Please help me decide which controller I should buy... Im going in circles...

DDJ SB
DDJ WEGO
Mix Track Pro2

I don't know...

Hope this helps, I am thinking if getting one myself.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_C3JFPO6njU&feature=youtube_gdata_player

[TIMMBO]

Hope this helps, I am thinking if getting one myself.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_C3JFPO6njU&feature=youtube_gdata_player

He got sorted out. In the end I don't think he went with any of these and he ended up getting the pioneer the DDJ S1. He is currently doing his first battle mix which should be up and running this Friday.

Looking forward to it

[diceallion]

Thanks Rayne, but I sorted it out. I ended up buying one not in my list lol. Wanted to have something a little more advanced. So I bought the S1

[Chenny_88]

Gday guys,
Im in Australia and found these budget controllers. They look pretty good for the price in Aus$$ but not %100 sure on these products.
What do you guys think?

AVE 4PLAY
http://www.djcity.com.au/4play-ave-4play-4-channel-dj-midi-controller

AVE 2PLAY
http://www.djcity.com.au/2play-ave-2play-2-channel-dj-midi-controller

[VHEX]

Hi guys. Im about to get a used Pioneer ERGO V for about 300€ (414.42 US$), but I would like to see what you guys have to say about this Controller.

Thanks in advance! ;)

PS: I will use it with Traktor Pro.

[Muppet]

I recommend people should always start with a MIDI controller (preferably on Virtual DJ), just so they can get the feel. I know I started on the 2 Channel Mixer G2V by Gemini, which pretty much is the after market version of the SX, and was perfect. Didn't cost too much and if i didn't think i was cut out to be a DJ, I hadn't lost too much money.

[ampnation]

Ahhhhhhhhhhh SHIT!!!! Just when I thought I almost knew what to buy... I now understand time code. Back to square1..!!!

What did you misunderstand? Maybe knowing, will save me from a mistake.

[diceallion]

Well I didn't understand the whole concept of how that setup worked... You know using vinyls, but with a laptop... If I was a little more patient, I would have went that direction with turntables, but I kept thinking there's no way I'm going to start buying records... Until I understood how time code works.. Anyways... I got a controller and I'm happy, but next year... I'll make the switch most likely.

[DJ Whrr]

Come on.... no one has brought up the Behringer DDM 4000???

http://www.behringer.com/assets/DDM4000_P0167_TopPers_XXL.png

~$300 or less and you get a mixer where you can use to control Serato, Traktor or any other program (aka you can you midi). Has built in crossover, terrific effects process, 2 mic inputs, 4 channels, the list goes on, folks!!!!

[LJay]

I just scored a American Audio DV2 USB for 46€ +shipping. I also managed to get it working with the latest version of Traktor Scrach Pro with the help of this video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eEkWPbqK28). Pretty cool, huh? The mixer seems to be suprisingly good in build quality and in connections. It has a standard IEC power socket and XLR master . I've red that it's pretty much the same as QD5mk2, but I've never tried one, so I can't be sure. The crossfader has a really sharp cut, but the cut in point was like 4mm. Took me 10 minutes to open the mixer and do the old school credit card mod for the fader. Now the cut in is 1mm or less. Did I mention all the faders have curve controls and reverse switches unlike Z2 and DJM-T1. It does has midi, but has no push buttons on it. The crossfader itself is advertised as optical, but to me it looks like any other 45mm Alpha (manufacturer of the fader). Still no need for an Innofader or any other since the crossfader is really good and light.
http://www.adjaudio.com/images/products/dv2-usb.jpg

[rich36dutch]

Yup or numark x5, same digital build from the inside as the dxm06. Those faders are perfect if you want scratch, and nice built, also from the inside.
The sound is a bit digital, but for this pprice point and the stanton m.207, i bught for 100euro a couple of months ago, offcourse they use their shitty su'scon caps, but the dsp is very nice , 24bit(who cares), so not the m.203, that one sells for 99euro, but mine 207 was the same price. They stoped making both, but it's geat for scratchers(only the crossfader need the mini innofader) and for mixing, enough capabilities and it sounds warm..... Which only allen&heath does and ecler... For the rest, some vestax mixers refurbished are great, when it comes to sound, the rest of the brands us too cheap gear to be able to create a good sound, though a lot of people hink they have high-end gear....too bad.... There ain't no hgend-mixer,just mainstream hi-fi a la home use.... and don't let them trick you with nonsens like burr-brown ad/dc converters....... That really doesn't say a thing and bb(texas instruments) converters are a little chain and not expensive at all. And if you wanna go digital, buy a rane, where the oke soundcard is built in, and pre-amps.... all bs... they never give partnr. or schematics, besides a&h. But never buy the outboard dvs-system from NI.... way too expensive for what''s inside and since i open everything i buy or buy and return, cause it's shitty build. And a cheapcomputer with a cheap powersupply and cheap connectors, like most ones, will never give a great sound. Just a fact. Only i never hear somebody about that....do you really think that a 400euromb compared o a hundred one is about the options, check extra grundlayer, way better caps, resistots etc(how small they may be)....etc...

[rich36dutch]

I agree with the behringer, it may not built of thick metal, but it has a lot to offer and the innofader salesman i had a discussion with, why it feels like a 20 euro fader....and the spacing on the fader itself, for 120euro.... And like every fader it needs to be lubed, and they say once a year cleaning.......in dreamland.... i removed it from my denon,
that one has less space on it and i can conroll everthing just from my board, the rane it's much better, and all the comment on the fader on he behringer, it's wayyy cheaper and, how many times have you cleaned your cd/dvd/blue-ray player laser????..... All those expensive 2000dollar tables are rip-offs, take a rane 62 and look at the potentiometers, 5, euro..max, and buy a good one.....:).... the table won't be payable. If behringer uses fine knobs and thicker metal with a blue screen, under a different name, people would have bought it right away, but the ddm, is i have to agree, cheap built, with a layover which sucks, but at the time it was nice..... and the fader is ok.
Or smeone has to to say:the innofader really feels like quality..... if you wanna cean it inside, which you have to, thos thin metal ins, break of so easily and they do if they invented it.... 120years too late...., and the rails was blablabla...., nice but the rest is plastic with too much space and it's only woth buying one, if your gear doesn't support the options, but an x5 slides lighter.... And ultra-aquarate?, the ic which is 4 euro measures 256 places at most.... , and the fit from the pnp, ain't pnp, otherwise my denon still would have paint on it.... So if this p en g is dead, i buy a p and g in the electronic stores and solder that one on it...25euro.... .
The little one is worth to try in stanton mixer(old sa.3), but rane is te best build one....all those hypes....

[TIMMBO]

After owning the nox 404 behringer mixers can go to hell
There is a reason they are cheap.

[Windows 95]

Twee has been great for me and feels a lot less bloated than some others out there. I've tried cliffhanger before but it seemed to have too much but I don't know if it's better now..I used to be love series guide but the UI wasn't all that great vs cliffhanger or twee. But yeah twee is worth a shot. No account necessary and looks awesome if you like the simple kitkat look with a splash of color. You can also customize layouts a bit.

I have a small website.If you want please visit this web site at once.Let me guess;
This gibberish is brought you by "Spam Bot", spamming the internet since 2003.

[OneSlowTurtle]

Super noob checking in, looking to buy my first set of equipment. I have always been the person to play music and provide lights, speakers, etc. and have wanted to get more serious for a while. After looking around I want to ask, how is the Numark iM9. I like the fact it has the dock, I mean I feel like it may look noobish, but it's a decent feature and the recording is also a bonus, another huge thing is the beat keeper and bpm detection seems pretty sweet. I feel like this is what I need (minus speakers, headphones, idk what else I am missing) so I guess what I'm asking is what do you all think about the Numark iM9? Is it a good setup for the price? What else would I need? Recommendations? Thanks for reading!
Cheers, Ryan.

[AntoineG]

I bought a Hercules RMX2 (163 € January 2014!). It's OK for beginners, all EQ/gains knob, pads for hotcue/samples/effects/loops, faders, crossfaders, pitch, etc.... The case is in metal and Hercules adds a bag for the controller in the box.

[light-o-matic]

Super noob checking in, looking to buy my first set of equipment. I have always been the person to play music and provide lights, speakers, etc. and have wanted to get more serious for a while. After looking around I want to ask, how is the Numark iM9. I like the fact it has the dock, I mean I feel like it may look noobish, but it's a decent feature and the recording is also a bonus, another huge thing is the beat keeper and bpm detection seems pretty sweet. I feel like this is what I need (minus speakers, headphones, idk what else I am missing) so I guess what I'm asking is what do you all think about the Numark iM9? Is it a good setup for the price? What else would I need? Recommendations? Thanks for reading!
Cheers, Ryan.

What do you think you're buying there? The im9 is just a mixer.. a mixer with an ipod dock. But you can't do any real DJing off that ipod. It is just there for convenience as an extra source. You planning to play CD, vinyl (records), files on the computer? If you are playing totally digital files (that is.. you are getting your music as files on the computer) then what you probably want for a starter setup is some type of controller to pair with your laptop.. if ya have a laptop. If you don't have a laptop and don't want to buy one, then there are other options

First thing you need to figure out is what kind of setup you want, then you pick models.

[phrozenflame]

Total absolute noob,

Here is what is available to me and for how much:
http://i.imgur.com/8uEuqdN.png

Made a thread here too:
http://www.djforums.com/forums/showthread.php?45110-Absolute-Beginner-need-guidance-on-equipment&p=422006#post422006

Would be real grateful for any feedback.

Thanks

[djeternal]

I replied to phrozen in the other thread but since he also posted here I will add my comments here as well and make it a little more general:

The Numark Mixtrack (Pro or Quad) or the Pioneer DDJ-SB or good controllers for beginners and they are pretty affordable because Numark and Pioneer are tripping over themselves with their release of new controllers. I don't have the DDJ-SB but I have the DDJ-SX and it is awesome. I also have had many Numark products over the years. They were the first major DJ company to jump into the controller market with gusto. Pioneer was playing catch up and it looks as if they have caught up.

When deciding on a controller I suggest that you go to a DJ store and play with or look at your potential pick up close. The good thing about the Numark Mixtrack (Pro or Quad) or the Pioneer DDJ-SB controllers is that when it's time to upgrade you can trade it in or keep it as a back up unit for small events. Both come with Serato DJ which is good because if you decide to get serious about DJ'ing you will have some experience with a popular Serato software. For example the latest Pioneer and Numark controllers ship with Serato DJ.

[djeternal]

I purchased a DBX 31 band equalizer (the 231) for $99 used but in mint condition. It's a great simple way to equalize your tops and bottoms separately and also adjust the levels to the tops and bottoms separately.

[fueledbymusic]

I bought a GMI pro equalizer a few years ago. I really love the thing. It serves me well! LOVE the look.
It looks something like this http://www.ebay.com/itm/GMI-PRO-20-BAND-GRAPHIC-DJ-EQUALIZER-W-I-POD-INPUT-SPECTRUM-DISPLAY-/150387551832?pt=US_Signal_Processors_Rack_Effects&hash=item2303cbee58

[LJay]

I bought a GMI pro equalizer a few years ago. I really love the thing. It serves me well! LOVE the look.
It looks something like this http://www.ebay.com/itm/GMI-PRO-20-BAND-GRAPHIC-DJ-EQUALIZER-W-I-POD-INPUT-SPECTRUM-DISPLAY-/150387551832?pt=US_Signal_Processors_Rack_Effects&hash=item2303cbee58
What do you do with it?

[LJay]

Scored an Ecler HAK360 for 106€ at a Cashconverters in Cordoba, Spain while on holiday. I also bought a mint M5G-pair for 800€, so my trip was more for business than pleasure.

[fueledbymusic]

What do you do with it?

You don't know? LOL

I use it to make my system sound really cool! I can add or take away a little bit of any pitch I want. Such as bass, midrange or highs.

[allensmusic]

You don't know? LOL

I use it to make my system sound really cool! I can add or take away a little bit of any pitch I want. Such as bass, midrange or highs.

it is advertised as ipod unit, so it would make sense to question how you use it. I would assume it is connected to an ipod after reading the description in the link you posted.

[LJay]

^Exactly. I know what an EQ is, but that thing looks like a home stereo EQ with RCA's only, so I was wondering how you use it. But I'm glad it makes you sound cool.

[light-o-matic]

Thanks to the rise of digital processors, good quality used graphic EQ's are easily available on ebay...
REALLY easily available. Rane ME15B's are gettable, ME15's are easily gettable under $100, Ashly MQX2150's are gettable under $100 with a little effort and patience.

Don't get THIS:

http://www.gmipro.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Gallery_1366.jpg

When you could have THIS:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/ASHLY-MQX-2150-GRAPHIC-EQ-/221611279507?pt=US_Signal_Processors_Rack_Effects&hash=item33990fc493&nma=true&si=K9FOikjw3RbmPBXHvbRlIKDYqIo%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557

http://www.gess.co.jp/cgi/gess/ashly/mqx-2150.jpg

But if you don't have the patience to deal with ebay, then.. OK.. you'll still be WAY better off spending $99 ON THIS:

http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-FBQ150-BEHRINGER-ULTRAGRAPH-FBQ1502/dp/B0002E513U

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/516usIyRAeL._SL1000_.jpg

Good sound doesn't have to cost a lot, but if you spend smart you'll be a lot better off in the end.

[fueledbymusic]

^Exactly. I know what an EQ is, but that thing looks like a home stereo EQ with RCA's only, so I was wondering how you use it. But I'm glad it makes you sound cool.

WHY you ask then. It looks like an equalizer to me. The pic I posted is NOT what I have. It is only similar.

[fueledbymusic]

Don't get THIS:

But I like it thoughhh;)



When you could have THIS:


Thanks to the rise of digital processors, good quality used graphic EQ's are easily available on ebay...
REALLY easily available. Rane ME15B's are gettable, ME15's are easily gettable under $100, Ashly MQX2150's are gettable under $100 with a little effort and patience.

I wish I would have knew that back in 2010! I don't think they had those for that price then.
Plus I was more gullible about DJ equipment then.


But if you don't have the patience to deal with ebay, then.. OK.. you'll still be WAY better off spending $99 ON THIS:

I like ebay: I always go ebay because it's better deals there. And plus more importantly, it's the ONLY place I can find exactly what I want.



Good sound doesn't have to cost a lot, but if you spend smart you'll be a lot better off in the end. I never had a complaint about that GMI pro equalizer! I had that equalizer since 2010 or 11. The one I have is 15 bands, not 10.

Well, the next time I need a DJ equalizer, I will definitely look at the ones you posted.

[light-o-matic]

Cool.. yea.. the point of me telling you.. is that so you (and everyone else reading this) knows for next time...
Meanwhile.. whatever you already have (and like) will still be something you have (and like). But you will know for next time...

And believe me, it's better quality.. and rack mount.. and proper 1/4 inch ins and outs, and detachable power cords, and more headroom.. and higher output levels.. and higher resale value.. just BETTER.

[LJay]

WHY you ask then. It looks like an equalizer to me. The pic I posted is NOT what I have. It is only similar.
Sorry if I asked difficult questions, but I'd really like to know how do you set up that on your system? On what kind of gigs you need that? :)

[LJay]

WHY you ask then. It looks like an equalizer to me. The pic I posted is NOT what I have. It is only similar.
Sorry if I asked difficult questions, but I'd really like to know how do you set up that on your system? On what kind of gigs you need that? :)
http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee435/fueledbymusic/IMG_3728_zps64447dad.jpg (http://s1227.photobucket.com/user/fueledbymusic/media/IMG_3728_zps64447dad.jpg.html)
Like that? Do you use RCA's only?

[Windows 95]

http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee435/fueledbymusic/IMG_3728_zps64447dad.jpgYou shouldn't ever hook up a Y adapter backward like that. Y adapters are for splitting a signal, not combining a signal.

[LJay]

You shouldn't ever hook up a Y adapter backward like that. Y adapters are for splitting a signal, not combining a signal.

I know. That picture was from fueledbymusic's photobucket. That's why I asked if that's his equipment wiring.

[fueledbymusic]

You shouldn't ever hook up a Y adapter backward like that. Y adapters are for splitting a signal, not combining a signal. OHhhh noooo.

I had it hooked up with a Y adaptor for more than year. No problems.

I then made a summing cable. This is a thread for this. (where that pic came from)
http://www.djforums.com/forums/showthread.php?40082-Combine-stereo-to-mono-using-a-Y-connector-(summing-cable)&highlight=


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xs7kls238JY

[fueledbymusic]

I know. That picture was from fueledbymusic's photobucket. That's why I asked if that's his equipment wiring.

That pic is an illustration of hooking up my mixer/equalizer to my QSC amp WHILE the amp is in crossover mode.

The RCAs are only said NOT to use if you need to extend it more than 15 feet (I believe), which can be common in the case of powered speakers which are often far away from the mixer/cdjs.

For my case, my RCA cable is barely 1 1/2 foot long (not even that) from the top of my rack to equalizer.

Before Y'ALL plan to scold me about the way I do it...

It just WORKS! (for me);)

[fueledbymusic]

Sorry if I asked difficult questions, but I'd really like to know how do you set up that on your system? On what kind of gigs you need that? :) I use it for all gigs I do. But however, I keep the sliders in the same spot. I almost never adjust it. The equalizer is just my preference. I personally like equalizers because I love how my system sounds. Since I can add a little bass, even more, I can work with certain "pitches of bass". Example : 30hz, 60hz, 100hz, etc (BOY, my tubas sound so COOL), or add or take away other pitches (such as highs) Or another example. I can add or take away the mids (voices) so to speak.

ALL in ALL, the equalizer is just my preference only basically

[fueledbymusic]

Do you use RCA's only? I forgot to answer that. YES, my whole system is RCA cables. Well actually, it's just my CD/mixer to equalizer, then amp (the pic showing, I have all RCAs)
NOT my speakers though. I have Speakon cables.

[LJay]

Cool thanks. Actually I watched your gig video and realised you have a passive rack system. That explains the short RCA's :).

[markpevans]

I got a cheap gemini mixer but the crossfader has only lasted about 6 months.

[fueledbymusic]

I had just ordered this on Ebay! I feel it's an awesome deal! $325 w/free ship

I like American Audio.
I currently have CDI300 system. It's been good to me! I had that one since 2010. I been happy with it!

This "new" system has the CDI500 CD players. A QD-5 mixer. I heard good things about the QD-5 mixer (for the price). And I LOVE the road case. The road case alone is $200 (Looks like the typical universal Odyssey ones). This system is from 2007, I can see.

My "old" system has the CDI300s, it used to have a QD-6 mixer, but now has a cheap $50 Numark M2. That system is from 2009. Despite of the cheap $50 mixer, I actually like it. Because it's SIMPLE to use and it actually sounds BETTER, yes BETTER, than the QD-6

This is the ebay ad pics:

http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee435/fueledbymusic/_57_zps91e84e9d.jpg (http://s1227.photobucket.com/user/fueledbymusic/media/_57_zps91e84e9d.jpg.html)
http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee435/fueledbymusic/_5711_zps30c5cc4e.jpg (http://s1227.photobucket.com/user/fueledbymusic/media/_5711_zps30c5cc4e.jpg.html)
http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee435/fueledbymusic/_572_zpsebfacc6e.jpg (http://s1227.photobucket.com/user/fueledbymusic/media/_572_zpsebfacc6e.jpg.html)

[DJ Rezman]

Numark Mixtrack Pro. Cost me £160, does everything I want it to for a beginner. Second sound card for headphone output drew me into it

I Bought the Numark mixtrack and used a USB soundcard for my cue :) love it

[keenen_obv]

sony ps-dj9000s two for cheap thoughts ???

[Windows 95]

sony ps-dj9000s two for cheap thoughts ???Never heard of it, but it seems to be nice a nice choice for mixing. I personally wouldn't want to use it for scratching, since it supposedly has an even weaker motor than the Technics 1200 series turntables.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHc8MgiF6nI

[Usta_B_aDJ]

sony ps-dj9000s two for cheap thoughts ???

I have 2 of them in mint condition .... Pretty good Turntables... Will do everything a 1210 will do ( Including scratching if you set them up right ) ... Can't say much bad about them apart from they are a bit plastic compared to the 1210 ... But still heavy solid bit's of kit .... For the price at the time brand new they were a bargain.

The cue lights have blown on both of them so they even suffer the same fates as 1210's hehe .... Has a notch at zero pitch .... Sound good with even the stock cart's .... Sound awesome with a set of Ortofon carts

The video is pretty accurate in it's description

What kind of price are you with them ?... Whats Cheap ?... I would say they are great if your on a budget like i was at the time... But as ever ...If your buying second hand Caveat emptor