In this edition of our Inside Track podcast, we explore whether DJing can actually be taught, or if you either have "it" or you don't. Some argue that if you need training to be a DJ, you'll never make it because "real DJ skills" simply can't be taught. We'll dig into this debate and what it means for aspiring DJs.
Next, we discuss how important effects really are for DJs. In the rush to make gear more powerful and attractive, manufacturers seem to love adding effects - standalone effects units, hardware effects, software effects, effects across different mixer sections, and so on. But are they actually essential, or just nice-to-have features?
Finally, we tackle the controversial topic of crossfader-less mixers. Every now and then, someone releases a mixer without a crossfader, and certain corners of the DJ world throw their hands up. But many DJ mixers over the years haven't had one. We'll look at where the crossfader is important and where it isn't, so you can form a better opinion on mixer designs that ditch it.
As ever, this was a really fun discussion, made more so by our wonderful live student audience here at Digital DJ Tips, who joined us for the recording. Thank you to them, thank you for listening, and we hope you enjoy the show.
If you enjoy this podcast and you can, please do give us a five-star rating on Apple Podcasts. It really does make a difference.
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Intro
00:15 Episode overview
01:23 Can DJing really be taught?
20:52 How important are DJ effects?
35:51 They killed the crossfader!
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