subject: Wanna be a DJ? - how to choose your first deck [print this page] Wanna be a DJ? - how to choose your first deck
In the last 10 years the meaning of a DJ has changed dramatically in the eyes of the public. Whereas before he or she was just someone who played records over the airwaves, usually for a radio station. The DJ have now been thrust into the limelight because of the emergence of clubbing culture around the world. No longer stuck behind a microphone, they now jet off to glamorous faraway locations playing to thousands of enthusiastic clubbers, at festivals and other gatherings
Consequently, this has led to the popularity of DJing and beat making as a hobby, as bedroom amateurs across the land try their hand at mixing and beatmatching. Demand for DJ equipment has followed suit and you can now find mixers and turntables at all prices to cater for amateurs and pros.
But with such a wide range to choose from, how do you go about getting something suitable for your needs?
There are basically 2 camps when it comes to turntables, based essentially on the drive train mechanism that turns the platter. Belt drive and as its name suggests is pretty self-explanatory. In this set up, the motor is offset from the spindle of the platter and is connected by a large rubber band. This acts like a chain on a bicycle and is used to transmit the rotation from the motor to the platter. The disadvantage of this is the relative lack of precision afforded to the user.
The secondary method is a direct drive mechanism. Again as its name suggest has the motor directly turning the platter. In this case it uses a magnet to maintain traction. This mechanism is found on the high-end equipment because it allows for precision adjustments necessary when mixing.
Other factors to take into account is the power and torque. This will again be partly determine by the price as the higher end turntables will be fitted with better motor units. As the price gets higher you'll find more features, some you maybe not even need. You pays your money and takes your choice.
