Hot DJ & Turntablism How-Tos
How To: Jump between two different genres when DJing
See how to smoothly segue between two distinct genres of music when on the decks. While DJing might appear simple to the untrained eye, truly mastering the turntables requires as much time and dedication as mastering any other instrument. Fortunately, the internet is awash in free video DJing lessons like this one, which make the learning process easier than it's ever been. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, take a look.
How To: Use crossfades to segue between tracks when DJing
Learn how to create smooth transitions between tracks with crossfades when on the decks. While DJing might appear simple to the untrained eye, truly mastering the turntables requires as much time and dedication as mastering any other instrument. Fortunately, the internet is awash in free video DJing lessons like this one, which make the learning process easier than it's ever been. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, take a look.
How To: Concentrate on a single mix when DJing
Learn how to focus on a single mix when on the decks. While DJing might appear simple to the untrained eye, truly mastering the turntables requires as much time and dedication as mastering any other instrument. Fortunately, the internet is awash in free video DJing lessons like this one, which make the learning process easier than it's ever been. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, take a look.
How To: Count beats per minute (BPM) of drum-and-bass music
Learn how to calculate BPM for different types of DNB. While DJing might appear simple to the untrained eye, truly mastering the turntables requires as much time and dedication as mastering any other instrument. Fortunately, the internet is awash in free video DJing lessons like this one, which make the learning process easier than it's ever been. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions,
How To: Mix with a DCJ-400 or DJM-400 when DJing
Watch this practice session between two seasoned DJs and learn how to mix with a DCJ-400 and a DJM-400. While DJing might appear simple to the untrained eye, truly mastering the turntables requires as much time and dedication as mastering any other instrument. Fortunately, the internet is awash in free video DJing lessons like this one, which make the learning process easier than it's ever been. For complete instructions, take a look.
How To: Use volume and EQ controls on a mixer when DJing
Learn how to adjust volume and the relative levels of the bass, mid and high frequencies. While DJing might appear simple to the untrained eye, truly mastering the turntables requires as much time and dedication as mastering any other instrument. Fortunately, the internet is awash in free video DJing lessons like this one, which make the learning process easier than it's ever been. For complete instructions, take a look.
How To: Mix track beats as a professional DJ
In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to mix beats as a DJ. When beat matching, a DJ usually uses headphones. Start by just listening to one song. Figure out where the beat of the song is and find the first beat of the bar (the beat count). To sync the two songs together, adjust the pitch controller. Some pitch controllers have a high pitch range than others. When the beats are properly mixed, it should sound like one complete song, almost like a remix version. This video will benefit tho...
How To: Choose songs to play as a professional DJ
In this video tutorial, viewers learn how a DJ chooses their songs. A DJ should be creative, unique and try to manipulate music to continue the artistic for of it. Experiment with song selections. Mix all sorts of music together such as: underground music, remixes, samples and the top 40 hits. Select songs that you enjoy. Make sure not to always play the same music or only play the popular songs on the radio because it can get annoying. This video will benefit those viewers who are interested...
How To: Make Prodigy's "Smack My Bitch Up" in Ableton
Remember Prodigy's massive hit "Smack My Bitch Up" released in 1997? The band's twelfth single, the song scored some serious airplay by deejays across the country. In this video, learn how to make Prodigy's legendary track "Smack My Bitch Up" in Ableton. Hosted by Jim Pavloff, this video goes over which samples were used by Liam of Prodigy for this hair raising track.
How To: Dress nice and comfortable when working a DJ gig
Dressing appropriate yet comfortable as a DJ go hand in hand in this video.Although tuxedos or suits can be worn this particular DJ prefers a little more dressed down. With a dressy button down and a pair of white cotton Dockers, he explains he looks professional yet he's comfortable. Sitting as a DJ is a bad idea. So standing for several hours definitely requires a comfortable pair of shoes. The Clark pair shown are his choice and said to have great soles, and very comfortable. Two tips for ...
How To: Become a wedding DJ
Do you love music and need a little extra cash? Do you think you have a knack for entertaining others with your rockin' playlists? Check out this video and learn how to turn that musical mind into a career as a wedding DJ. The most memorable part of the wedding reception is the music and dancing and you could be a part of it! Follow these steps and have people complimenting you on your awesome tunes as they leave the reception.
How To: DJ with your PC or Mac laptop
DJing with your laptop computer requires a combination of specialized hardware and software. This video tutorial demonstrates how to DJ with your laptop computer, using both a Mac and PC system. From the audio output jack, connect your laptop to an amplifier, then to your mixer where you can apply effects to your music.
How To: Become a working DJ using pro digital techniques
In this video tutorial series, DJ Sarah Main explains how to become a working professional DJ. She offers tips on how to set up your digital DJ rig, cueing up tracks in the mix, and cataloging your music library. In the second half of the series Sarah shows how to mix tracks with the cross fader, and progressively layer audio elements.
How To: Perform digital audio effects with DJ James Zabiela
In this video tutorial series, DJ James Zabiela shows how to use effects to enhance your DJ set, utilize a feedback loop, and discover new music. In the second half of the series he shows how to alter live vocals, incorporate a few of his signature moves, and edit digital scratches into your DJ set.
How To: Master the basics of being a professional DJ
Being a professional DJ takes a studied ear and a technical mastery of your equipment. This video tutorial series covers beats, bars, and phrases, and how to incorporate beat and breakdown looping into your DJ set. Additionally, DJ Phil K shows how to insure audio frequencies blend together, and provides professional tips on how to approach your first DJ gig.
How To: Upgrade the Pioneer MEP-7000 Firmware 2.02
Go to DJTUTOR computer where you can download the latest firmware for free. Once downloaded you need to either burn it to a CD-R or use a USB key. Unzip the file and download it to a fat formatted USB key with nothing else on it. The firmware upgrade consists of two files. Eject any disks from the MEP and remove any USBs and make sure the unit is turned off. Next insert your USB key and push and hold USB 1 and USB 2 and turn on your unit. The MEP will then tell you when the firmware is comple...
How To: Be a DJ using your PC if you are disabled
This is how you would use your PC to be a DJ if you are disabled. First you'll need a second sound card option for the headphones. Cheaper headphones can be used also until you're able to get the proper ones. The software you will be using supports microphone input which is called Virtual DJ. It's a fantastic kit made especially someone with a disability with all the same things that you would find in other decks and a mixers. Then you would want to just experiment with the controls until you...
How To: Construct a DJ set playlist
This video is about how to construct a DJ set together. Ellaskins states in this video that he doesn't feel you should follow his tutorial step by step. Instead, use it to soak up all of the information and to help finalize your own product. In this video he describes what he calls the "Tree Chaos Theory". He states that in your room you can set up any play list and it will work. However, in a club you need to watch the crowd and make sure you know when they want their playlist to go in anoth...
How To: Beat match with off beats
This video teaches you how to become a DJ. In this session we can learn how to keep the beat off beat by keeping the timing of the beats the same. This video shows the specific way of increasing the beats and decreasing the beats according to the tracks that are played. This tutorial also has a live sample of how a beat can be matched off and a how to maintain a constant interval between the beats. It also has some specific instructions on how to maintain a constant interval between the track...
How To: Scratch on the Pioneer CDJ turntable
To scratch on a pioneer CDJ turntable, first select the sound you are going to use. Observe the position of the black line on the turntable in relation to the sound you've selected. Understand how much room you have to manipulate the sound and position your fingers accordingly. The platter will move in accordance to the black line and your finger. You can also lift your hand off the platter in the play and pause mode to let the sound move itself by its own accord and at its own speed. Move yo...
How To: DJ the mirrored double click flare combo scratch
He starts off performing the task that he then describes. It's one technique that is called a mirrored double click flare. This is done by moving the record forward a double click and then back a double click then forward a single click. The whole process is then done in reverse, starting with moving the record back a double click. On his DJ table he moves a cross fader to mirror his movement of the record. First start the technique slow without a beat to get the movement memorizes. Add a bea...
How To: DJ the twiddle scratch
The video describes a method of doing the twiddle scratch on a DJ turntable. The sound one gets is like a double-click flair, as it’s similar to the double-click flair. In order to do the twiddle scratch, keep your stronger hand (the hand u frequently uses) on the dies while your other hand is on the log. Keep your thumb against the log lightly, and tap back and forth with your two fingers while scratching the disc with your other hand. The whole procedure is given step by step.
How To: Do the boomerang scratch with fading pattern
The video describes the effect known as the Boomerang Scratch. The author describes the technique and shows the sheet musical note equivalent. After explaining the sheet music notation, the author shows a video of the technique being performed on a scratch deck with a cross fader. The video then covers volume levels as indicated on sheet music and how to read these notations. This video provides a few different examples of the boomerang scratch along with close-up videos of the authors and ha...
How To: Set up an active speaker system
This video shows you how to set up an active speaker system with a built-in amp. Move the gain up and have it halfway up on the mixer. The actual volume control should be set to 0 prior to moving the gain up and down. Mess around with the gain, and slowly bring the gain up until you are slowly tapping into the ampere. You can mess with the gain until it sounds right. This will increase the bass on our mixer.
How To: DJ the butterfly scratch
This video is made by a "DJ" with two turntables and a variety of musical equipment. He is showing how to do the "butterfly scratch" which is a type of scratch that DJ doES on vinyl records to create certain sounds while mixing records together. It is often heard in hip hop songs. There are diagrams in the video window showing musical notes and variations. The instructor goes through the entire process of how to do the butterfly scratch, while showing different tips to maximize your performan...
How To: Scratch on turntables for beginners
The video is from the DJ tutorial and it shows us the basic principles of scratching for the beginners. And the first lesson you should learn is that there are basically four movements and here you will actually be not going to scratch put will be moving the record forward and backward. These four moves form the basis for starting to learn scratching. First you need are the type of sounds which are either acapella (song with no music) or with sounds (tracks with breaks on it). Before starting...
How To: Become a professional club DJ
You already know the mechanics of DJing, but you want to be an international celebrity -- or at least drink for free while showing off your music collection. Here's how to spin your hobby into a career. Watch this video to learn how to become a professional club DJ.
How To: Replace a turntable needle
Whether you’re a professional DJ or simply a vinyl enthusiast, knowing how to install a fresh needle will help protect your music.
How To: Fix a Warped Record for skratch djs by dj lemon chin
There are many ways to fix warped vinyl. Here's a ghetto version by using the power of the sun. Qbert experiments on a hot day to see if the double glass trick really works with 2 tables. By heating up the record under two flat surfaces, to where it's kinda bendable, you can reshape it yourself. Just don't get it too hot and melt the LP! It's another reason you need the glass... because with out it, if you leave the record in the sun by itself, it will bend all crazy and wavy.
How To: Install Jog Grips on a VCI-100 MIDI controller
Interested in having your VCI-100 feel more like a CDJ-1000 when pitch bending? Jog Grips have been designed so that your hand naturally falls half on, half off the grips when you grab the wheel. So one of your fingers activate the touch sensor while the index finger benefits from from the grip and added tactility. For step-by-step instructions on the Jog Grip installation process for VCI-100 controllers, take a look.
How To: Use the Vestax VCI-100
Check out this instructional DJ video that shows you the basic and advanced features of the black VCI-100 Special Edition designed by Ean Golden for Vestax. This tutorial covers the basics of the unit in the first part, to the advanced aspects of the unit in the second video. Learn about the functions and features of the Vestax VCI-100 and improve your DJ skills.
How To: Use the filter FX in Traktor
Check out this instructional DJ video that shows you how to use the filter effect in Traktor. This is the first in a series of tutorials on using FX to spice up your DJ sets and take midi controllers to the next level. This is one of the most basic but effective effects. A filter will not only help you blend songs together by removing conflicting frequencies, but can create a lot of interesting sounds. Use the filter FX in Traktor and improve your DJ skills.
How To: Set up digital DJ gear in a club
Check out this instructional DJ video that takes a look at how to use your DJ gear at a typical nightclub setup. This tutorial also provides a walk through demonstration on how to map the Novation 25sl for use with Traktor 3. Set up your digital DJ gear in a club and start mixing beats like a master DJ!
How To: Use sound cards with the VCI-100
Do I need a sound card for the Vestax VCI-100? What sound card is the best for beginners? There are a lot of unanswered questions about sound cards. So here is a short instructional guide that answers most of your beginning questions about DJing with sound cards, a laptop and/or the VCI-100. The VCI-100 is just a MIDI control. No sound of any kind will come out of it. This is a sound card 101 demonstrational video.
How To: Add arcade buttons to a Vestax VCI-100
Check out this music tutorial that breaks down how to install arcade buttons in your Vestax VCI-100, including part names and numbers. Grab the necessary materials and just follow the simple step by step instructions outlined in this instructional video. Add arcade buttons to a Vestax VCI-100 and add a nice bouncy action to your playing techniques.
How To: Use the mid and top on a DJ mixer
Want to mix and scratch like a professional DJ? To be a good DJ you need to understand the concepts of mixing tracks, adding cool effects, and of course you need a good sense of rhythm to line up the beats. This how to video explains how to use the mid and top on a DJ mixer. This demonstration gives you an idea on what to do and how to use the mid and top. There is one big rule: never go over 2.30 on the EQ as you could end up blowing out your speakers! Watch this DJ tutorial so you can learn...
How To: Do basic scratches while you DJ
Want to mix and scratch like a professional DJ? To be a good DJ you need to understand the concepts of mixing tracks, adding cool effects, and of course you need a good sense of rhythm to line up the beats. This how to video explains how to do basic scratching while you DJ. Improve your DJ skills by watching this tutorial and practice how to do basic scratches while you DJ.
How To: Play two different tracks on a Denon DN-HS5500 mixer
Want to mix and scratch like a professional DJ? To be a good DJ you need to understand the concepts of mixing tracks, adding cool effects, and of course you need a good sense of rhythm to line up the beats. This how to video explains how to play two different tracks on a Denon DN-HS5500 mixer. This video shows you how to start up and play two tracks. Watch this DJ tutorial so you can learn how to play two different tracks on a Denon DN-HS5500 mixer.
How To: Use the break, dump, & reverse FX on a Denon DN-S1200
Want to mix and scratch like a professional DJ? To be a good DJ you need to understand the concepts of mixing tracks, adding cool effects, and of course you need a good sense of rhythm to line up the beats. This how to video explains how to use the break, dump, & reverse effects on a Denon DN-S1200 mixer. You can set the time of the reverse feature by moving the parameters dial. Watch this DJ tutorial so you can learn how to use the break, dump, & reverse FX features on a Denon DN-S1200 mixer.
How To: Use the echo or loop effect on the Denon DN-S1200
Want to mix and scratch like a professional DJ? To be a good DJ you need to understand the concepts of mixing tracks, adding cool effects, and of course you need a good sense of rhythm to line up the beats. This how to video explains how to use the echo or loop effect on the Denon DN-S1200 mixer. This is a small demonstrational on the echo/loop fx button. Watch this DJ tutorial so you can learn how to use the echo or loop effect on the Denon DN-S1200 mixer.