What Is a DJ Console? Parts, Types and How It Works
Updated: 6 days ago
A DJ console is the hardware you use to play and mix music. It has two or more decks that play tracks and a mixer that blends them. Some consoles pack everything into one unit. Others split the decks and mixer into separate pieces.
The three parts of a DJ console
Every console, big or small, has the same three jobs.
Decks. A deck plays a track. It has play and cue buttons, a tempo slider and a jog wheel for nudging the beat.
A mixer. The mixer blends the decks. It has a volume fader for each channel, EQ knobs, a gain knob and usually a crossfader.
A headphone feed. This lets you hear the next track privately while the crowd hears the current one. Without it, you can't line up beats before they go live.
Music flows from the decks into the mixer. The mixer sends one signal to the amplifier and speakers, and a second signal to your headphones.
Four types of DJ console
1. DJ controller. Decks and a mixer in one box. You plug it into a laptop that runs DJ software, and the software does the sound processing. It's the most common way to start. The Pioneer DDJ-1000 we use in class is a controller.
2. Standalone all-in-one. Decks and a mixer in one unit that plays music from a USB drive. You don't need a laptop on stage. The XDJ-AZ in our studio is one of these.
3. Separate players and a mixer. This is the classic club booth: two or more media players, such as the CDJ-3000, with a mixer between them. Clubs often install this style, so practice on it helps if you want to play out.
4. Turntables and a mixer. Two record decks and a mixer. You can play vinyl, or use special control records to play digital files.
Which console should you learn on?
The layouts look different, but they follow one pattern: a deck on each side and a mixer in the middle. Learn the skills on one console and you can adapt to others quickly.
Before you buy, check three things:
The software. Some controllers work with rekordbox. Others work with Serato. Pick the console that matches the software you'll learn.
The number of channels. Two channels are enough for a beginner.
The headphone output. Make sure it works with your headphones.
For a full buying guide, read our post on what DJ gear to buy first. If you're unsure which software to learn, see our guide to the best DJ software for beginners.
How we teach it
In our Online DJ Classes, two modules cover the console: understanding the DJ mixer, and understanding the CDJ. You need a laptop or PC, headphones, a microphone and a fast broadband connection. A controller is optional. If you're not sure what to buy, ask us in a free demo class first.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a DJ console and a DJ controller?
A controller is one kind of DJ console. It needs a laptop and DJ software. Other consoles, such as standalone units and CDJ setups, can work without a laptop.
What is the difference between a DJ console and a mixer?
The mixer is one part of the console. The console also includes the decks that play the music.
Do I need my own DJ console to start learning?
Not always. For our Online DJ Classes you need a laptop or PC, headphones, a microphone and a fast broadband connection. A controller is optional.
Which DJ console do clubs use?
Many clubs install separate media players with a mixer in the middle. Ask the venue what they have before a gig.
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