Not sure if this is off topic, but, I've nominated myself to DJ for the year 12 river cruise.
I HAVE DJ'd before, but that was when I only had access to a PeeCee. I used program called "DSSDJ".

Now, on my MacBook, I use a program called "DJay". This is a really easy program to use, and I have no problem with it. However, as my MacBook only has one Audio output, I can't pre-cue.

One thing I have thought of doing, is borrowing my friends MacBook, and running from both of 'em.

Next thing I need to know, is, what DJ equipment will I need?
I have nothing other than the MacBook, so I know I need the following:
-Mixer
-Mic
-Speakers
-Amp

Fortunately the school is willing to pay for the hiring of the equipment, as long as I dont go overboard.

Does anyone on here know of any DJ applications, or have any recommendations of what I should get/use (both hardware and software)?

Ableton - Ableton Live 7 OR http://www.native-instruments.com:80...9ba804c60f12f2

and a Griffin iMic2 usb audio interface unit.

MegaSeg - Pro Mac DJ Music and Radio Automation Software looks pretty good

I second mechcon's answer -- Native Instruments Traktor or Ableton Live and an external audio interface for primary output to 'front of house', and use the Mac's internal audio output for monitoring.

Whilst the two programs mentioned are expensive, they are definitely worth the investment if you wish to continue being a digital DJ in the future. Ableton Live is more of a digital audio workstation / music production program, but was developed around the need for live performance and thus happens to make for an excellent platform to DJ with.

A good external audio interface can also be expensive, but the Griffin unit is one of the cheapest. Look at Edirol or M-Audio for other low-budget options.

If you don't feel you can justify the purchase of the mentioned programs and audio interfaces, then you will require two separate soundsources -- yours and your mate's laptops -- and a normal DJ mixer, with two or more input channels and a cross-fader. These can be hired, along with amps and speakers, from most audio / party hire companies.

I'd go or Ableton if you can't afford both, and an M-Audio output.

Alternatively, a couple of Vestax PDX-3000's (gotta love the S-bend) and a mixer by Rane. Shure SM7B and you're away.

You can even leave your MacBook at home to stop it getting wet

what about two ipods and a mixer?

IANADJ ( I am not a DJ ) but my sis has her macbook setup for DJ'ing, she's got it hooked up with twin turntables and uses serato scratch live, it's a pretty cool setup. With serato she can feed her itunes songs into to 'tables as if she has the vinyl. Very cool to play with.

I take it that you don't have any records if your planning on using your computer...

If I were you I would leave the computer and hire two Pioneer CDJ1000's...


Then burn everything you need to CD. Make sure you don't use shit quality mp3's, it will be noticeable on a good system.

Then get a decent mixer and self powered speakers (about 15") that can plug straight into the back of the mixer. I can't remember which brands are good at the moment but if you go out to the hire shop you can probably listen to them. You can also get bass bins that go with them, but that is probably not necessary for your school party.

Edit: At least try and get the CDJ's and the Mixer a day before the party so you can have a practice.

Serato Scratch Live is compatible with CDJs and Turntables... the only thing anyone should use

if you have only ever djed with a computer before
don go the cdjs & turntables option

learning to beat match on the fly is never a good idea

native instruments traktor is what i use on my mac
when im not on my turntables

worth a try

Good suggestion. That's probably the best solution if you want to use the MacBook.

CDJ1000s are great (got 2 here ). Definitely a good way to go and they'll be cheap to hire. Much more fun than using a computer. You'll need to have some decent beatmixing skills to pull it off though (if that's what you're planning on doing).

if you havent done much DJing before and want something stupidly easy to use try VIRTUAL DJ SOFTWARE - MP3 Mixing Software -
Anyone can use it, it does the mixing for you and you can queue tracks.

I have DJ'd with CD players before. Very simple ones, with NO advanced features, like scratching.
My thought is to get a CD player, and run one MacBook.
This way, if I have any problems with the Mac (most unlikely), I can switch over to the CD while I resolve it.
As for the setup, Anthony suggested to me, last night on iChat, a device. I think it was a Berringher. Pretty much, what it looks to do, is add another input and 2 outputs for the MacBook, via USB.

Keep the ideas rolling.

I think your school's advise is the best: Don't go overboard.

Geddit??? Overboard! On a river cruise. Heh heh.


Thank you, thank you. You're too kind.

Too kind?
Ok then.
THAT SUCKED


Ok, so it was a pretty good pun. But seriously, what should I use.
I'm downloading a few apps, and trying them out now.