

It’s also important to know that DJing is an art, just like any other aspect of music creation. But the difference in design and features allows a DJ-specific turntable to function as intended.

You place a record on the platter, drop the needle, and listen to records. On a basic level, a DJ turntable functions just like a standard record player. Just as its name implies, the slip mat helps the record slip, which improves the ability to get a scratch effect. This is typically a felt pad that sits on the platter below the actual record.

And this is another reason why direct-drive turntables are ideal for the task.Ī slip mat is another essential aspect of a DJ setup that helps make things work. Speed control is essential because it will help you sync a track from one record to that of another. Other features of the setup can include EQ and speed controls. A fading effect is why you sometimes hear multiple songs simultaneously. This is a nob that dictates which turntable is sending out signal to the rest of the sound system. These mixers can have a lot of features for the DJ to use while they’re in action. This is another essential aspect that helps make it possible to play songs from vinyl with a flow. In addition to two turntables being played at the same time, a DJ turntable setup will have a mixer or fader that helps connect these together. Since the needle needs to be dropped at a very specific position on the record, syncing this up ahead of time is critical for seamless transitions during a set. Using multiple turntables allows the DJ to cue the next song while the current record is playing. I’ll break down some DJ setup examples in the sections below, but just know that you need multiple turntables to get started. Most DJs use multiple turntables simultaneously, which is another critical aspect of their setup. You can damage this turntable if you try to scratch or spin records, so it’s not ideal for DJing. This means there is a belt running between the motor and the platter. This allows the record to be spun in either direction, effectively creating the scratching technique that DJing is known for.Ī standard turntable has a belt drive design. This means that the motor which spins the platter to turn records is directly underneath the platter. While they might appear similar to a turntable you have at home, there are a few key differences to know about.įirst, nearly all DJ turntables have a direct-drive design. If you have ever watched a DJ in action at a club or a music venue, you might wonder how their turntables work.
#DJ TURNTABLES HOW TO#
The skills of a DJ are more important than the actual turntable itself, but knowing how to utilize various features on a turntable can certainly help.

