There’s a LOT of software out there. All with varying levels of features, compatability and styles. We will approroach this tutorial with a beginners’ perspective. This usually means FREE!
What do I need?
First and foremost, you need a music collection. Ideally, you want to be able to access the music files, so any program with encryption or storing the files in some weird way won’t work.
Choice of Software
Once you have a music collection, it’s time to find DJ software to mix the music together. The majority of apps have free demo’s so you can try them out. There are only a handful of ‘big name’ software packages out there, most with an expensive price tag, even still – trying these apps out will help you decide if they are worth it.
FREE
With time stretch, beat looping, dual decks, fx, hot cues, independent sample deck and much more, it makes Mixxx a force to be reckoned with. Check it out -
http://www.Mixxx.org
Virtual DJ home FREE -
link
Well known software with a strong following. There isn’t much this dj software can do that the full price dj software can. Excellent starting software with all the major features – beat match, fx, sampler etc. the only limitation is that with the free version, no external controllers are enabled. If you we’re going to jut mix using the on screen controls, get this software right now while you can!
PAID
If you don’t mind paying a relatively small fee for DJ software, you really do have a great selection to choose from. Each has it’s own strengths so choose carefully. An important factor for DJ Software is the compatability with hardware controllers. If you plan on using a specific dj controller, be sure to check it works with the software before you buy.
Paid software demos (try before you buy)
A whole host of companies are releasing pay-for DJ software. PCDJ, Pioneer, ProDJ, Gemini are all big players in DJ Software. It would be too hard for us to recommend one single software, as they all have different features, different techniques and different styles. Just like all DJ equipment, what works for one DJ may not for the next.
Check out
this comparison table for more info!