New Compact High-power Subwoofer

The smallest, high-power subwoofer ever produced is now available from Grund Audio Design. Only 17″ in height, the 2000 watt, double-18″ GT-LPB-36CX has a sensitivity of 99 dB at 1w1m (132 dB full power). The Linear Pressure Base design utilizes a combination of Thiele/Small, LEAP and LMS parameters to direct the output forward, not interfering with stage SPL.”Sound professionals have long requested a small profile subwoofer to fit under stages and take up less precious space without loss in quality or SPL” - said Frank Grund, chief engineer. “Whereas, subwoofers have a single resonant point, the LPB is flat from 40-80 Hz with a tighter, more musical sound. We’re having fun winning shootouts with competitive boxes over twice the size.”

Built for touring or fixed installation, its 13-ply Baltic-birch cabinet incorporates dado and rabbet construction. Unit is available in 4 finishes; black, white, exclusive natural finish (no filler marks) and black with rugged Tour CoatTM, two-part, epoxy finish.

About Grund Audio Design: A division of Grundorf Corporation, headquartered in Council Bluffs, Iowa, Grund Audio Design has been producing and wholesaling engineered speaker cabinet products since 1984. Customers include touring sound companies, music stores and fixed installations including churches and theaters as well as a turnkey OEM producer for significant audio manufacturers. Its parent company, Grundorf Corporation, is an internationally recognized producer of customized, high-durability touring/mobile cases, racks and accessories.

Cost-saving Ground Stacks!

Sound Production Companies now have a cost-saving alternative for venues requiring the pattern control of a line array, but fast, convenient set-up. Grund Audio Design’s GA-4041GST is intended for ground or stage stacking only. Significant cost reduction is achieved by eliminating unnecessary flying hardware and incorporating a properly angled dual array into a single cabinet.Each side of the cabinet incorporates four 10″ weather-treated drivers with two, 1″ neodymium drivers coupled to two, dual, fiberglass, complex-planar horns. This combination provides a wide 100º coverage angle with a frequency response of 50-18kHz and 101 dB output at 1w1m (124 dB at rated power).

Their rugged, 13-ply Baltic Birch cabinets use dado and rabbet construction as well as a clever track system making units rock solid in stacks of up to three twin units. Each is finished with a black, Tour CoatTM, two-part, epoxy finish.

According to Frank Grund, chief engineer; “Live sound companies requested a premium line array with quicker set-up for smaller venues, like theaters, fairs, etc, but that met their budget constraints. Ground stacking was the perfect solution.”

About Grund Audio Design: A division of Grundorf Corporation, headquartered in Council Bluffs, Iowa, Grund Audio Design has been producing and wholesaling engineered speaker cabinet products since 1984. Customers include touring sound companies, music stores and fixed installations including churches and theaters as well as a turnkey OEM producer for significant audio manufacturers. Its parent company, Grundorf Corporation, is an internationally recognized producer of customized, high-durability touring/mobile cases, racks and accessories.

###

Frank Grund
President

Cortex Reveals New Professional Audio Mixer

Edison, NJ - May 5, 2008: Perfectly complimenting their award-winning line of Digital Music Controllers, Cortex proudly unveils the MIX-R1U, the new crowning compact, rack mountable, lightweight and mobile professional audio mixer.

Ideal for both nightclub or bar installation, as well as mobile disc jockey use, its simple layout, quality circuitry and compact design makes it an essential addition to any pro audio or pro DJ rig.

Packed with all the necessary features such as two stereo channels each with a 2 band EQ, adjustable gain and ultra-bright blue LED VU display meters, front mounted XLR microphone input with Auto-Talkover that protects against microphone feedback, a high performance cross fader and balanced XLR outputs for pro installs, the MIX-R1U redefines what it means to be compact yet versatile.

About Cortex:

A division of GCI Technologies, Cortex is the originators in USB-compatible Digital Music Controllers. Committed to providing the most technologically advanced Digital DJ equipment on the market and inspired by the forward-thinking DJ, Cortex has perfectly integrated technology with music to break through the barriers and provide the DJ with an unparalleled level of control. For further information click to www.cortex-pro.com. For pricing information contact GCI Technologies at (732) 346-0061.

Gemini Introduces New Line of Professional CD/MP3/USB Players

Edison, NJ - May 1, 2008: Gemini is proud to introduce its new line of Professional CD/MP3/USB Players. The CDMP Series provides the ultimate affordable and reliable digital connection via built-in USB inputs, giving you the flexibility and convenience of CDs and MP3s!
Ideal for mobile DJ rigs or Club/Bar installations and consisting of three models - the CDMP-1300 (2U Single Player), CDMP-2600 (2U Dual Player), and the flagship CDMP-5000 (Dual CD/MP3/USB Mixing Console) are loaded with cutting-edge features such as BPM read out, Anti-Shock^TM using RAM buffer memory, VFD Screen, instant-start and cue with preview and seamless loop with reloop, just to name a few.
Equipped with the ability to play and manipulate songs directly from a USB Key and MP3 player, plus an impressive array of features DJs want and need, these units offer the perfect solution to your CD and MP3 needs!

About Gemini:
A division of GCI Technologies, Gemini’s avant-garde commitment and dedication to pushing the art form of DJing into the forefront with its affordable and functional products was instrumental in transforming the DJ’s conventional role from music manipulator to accredited artist and/or performer. Turntablists, club and mobile DJ’s, nightclubs, recreation facilities, contractors, hobbyist, professional installers and designers throughout the world rely on Gemini products. Flash forward to the present, Gemini continues to add to its countless contributions to the DJ realm by forging ahead into the digital revolution, all the while gracefully preserving the legacy of vinyl.

Hercules RMX Console Released

ercules, the computer DJ entertainment specialist, announces the availability of the new Hercules DJ Console Rmx, a digital audio console designed for Mobile and advanced DJs. The audio console, supplied with a carrying bag for total mobility, retails for $349.00 and is available now at Guitar Center, Sam Ash, Musician’s Friend, American Musical Supply, 8th Street Music and PSSL.com. (www.hercules.com)

The DJ Console Rmx is the most comprehensive digital dual mixing deck in its class. The sleek console includes a number of quality features such as a solid metal casing with non-slip pads guaranteeing perfect stability, broad surface, accessible buttons and knobs, precise and comprehensive controls, a built-in audio interface with 4 inputs, 4 outputs. 
 
“The success of our products has helped spread the Hercules brand throughout the international DJ community. We consulted with over 1300 DJs throughout Europe and US and designed the DJ Console Rmx to their exact expectations,” states François Garet, Development Manager of the DJing solutions range for Hercules. “We are proud to offer this professional solution that provides enhanced performance and precision at an incredible value,” adds Garet.

Denon New Compact Media Player, 2 Channel Mixer & Compact Mixer + New Headphones!

– New Compact CD/USB Media Player & Controller, 2-Channel Mixer, High-Performance
Headphones and Super Compact Mixer Join Company’s Broad Line of Industry-Leading DJ Products –
Anaheim, CA, January 17, 2008 - Denon DJ, a leading manufacturer of reliable, premium-grade DJ
equipment, will showcase a broad range of high-performance products for working DJs at NAMM 2008.
In addition to its forthcoming breakthrough Model DN-HS5500 Direct Drive Turntable Media Player &
Controller (see separate release), the company will spotlight four exciting new additions to its
comprehensive line of mobile mixers, portable CD/MP3 players and more. The four new products,
including the innovative, high-performance Model DN-S1200 Compact CD/USB Media Player &
Controller, DN-X050 Professional 2-channel Mixer, Model DN-HP700 headphones and DN-X120
Compact Performance Mixer, will be showcased at NAMM, many in live demonstrations that will
give attendees the opportunity to experience their features and capabilities firsthand.
DN-S1200: Total Control Over Your Music Collections in a Super Compact Instrument!
Denon’s new DN-S1200 Compact CD/USB Media Player & Controller is a super-compact and
sophisticated DJ instrument that lets users bring together and enjoy access to their entire music
collection from virtually all-existing storage media, including Apple® iPods® and USB Flash Drives. For
total flexibility, it features an illuminated Slot-In CD Player, a quick-loading and fast data reading
mechanism that offers a variety of audio compact disc support, including CD, CD-R, CD-RW and CDTEXT.
Thanks to its advanced External USB Device Support, users have access to vast portable music
collections stored on external USB media and may connect their iPod, Thumb Drive, and large Hard
Drives for easy access to small or extensive mp3/wav collections of up to 50,000 files. Simply plug
these devices into the DN-S1200 to obtain the powerful on-board features such as Instant Start,
Seamless Looping, Scratching and easy File Searching. Notably, with its MIDI Interface Controller
(PC/MAC), the DN-S1200 is also designed to interface and control a variety of popular DJ programs
that supports USB MIDI in/out interface, either by user custom mapping or direct native support by the
software vendor. Users can easily control their favorite DJ software all from a single advanced compact
player. Unlike most dedicated DJ midi controllers that are only USB bus powered, the DN-S1200
encompasses its own internal power supply to achieve the highest electrical specifications, resulting in
best possible performance. The DN-S1200 features industry leading Burr Brown (a product of TI) 24 bit
DAC processing for superior output audio fidelity.
The DN-S1200’s leading-edge 110mm JOG Disc is constructed with an ultra high-resolution pulse and
touch sensor mechanism to accurately reproduce the most subtle or swift scratching movements made by
the human hand. The Jog Disc can perform other vital functions too such as, pitch bending, scanning,
file searching and dry/wet control for effects. For added creative flexibility, two “hot starts” (A1 and
A2) can be made on the fly and easily turned into Seamless Loops. And thanks to its 4 Superb Built-in
Effects, building the mood of the dance floor and remixing live has never been easier. DJs can easily
activate and have full parameter control with a Dry/Wet mix control of the 4 effects: Flanger, Filter
(High-Mid-Low), Echo and Echo/Loop, as well as 3 Platter Effects, including Brake (adjustable in realtime),
Dump (reverse sound without losing true forward time, like a radio edit), and Reverse (plays your
music backwards). For those DJ’s who perform long mix transitions and require high pitch resolution,
the S1200 offers a 100mm pitch slider with .02% for the 4% pitch range and .05% for the 10/16% pitch
range. 24%/50%/100% ranges are also available.
The DN-S1200 comes complete with Denon DJ’s acclaimed Music Manager Software. Among its
groundbreaking features is a highly refined search system, which lets users navigate quickly through any
MP3/ WAV files connected to the system and monitor files via the internal player. Additionally, the
Music Manger allows for ID3 Tag Editing of MP3/ WAV for supported fields, scans files and saves
BPM calculated results to the TAG itself, builds playlists, importing/exporting of Playlists and
transporting music files to other connected devices The Denon DN-S1200 is scheduled to ship in April
2008 at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $599.99.
DN-X050: A New Standard in Professional 2-Channel Mixing
With its slim, 2RU rackmount design and full complement of advanced features, the DN-X050 sets a
new performance standard for both flexibility and ease-of-use in professional 2-channel. Users have
access to two switchable phone/line and two line inputs, as well as a dedicated microphone input. The
unit also features three-band Parametric EQ, Balanced & Unbalanced Output, and a 10-segments Level
Meter. The DN-X050 is scheduled to ship in March 2008 with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of
$399.99.
DN-HP700 Headphones: Durability, Reliability and Style
Denon DJ’s sturdy new DN-HP700 headphones are designed with the durability, reliability and style
required by today’s hard-working DJs. With their powerful 40mm drivers and 1,700mW of input power
and Neodymium magnet technology, they provide clear, pure audio performance. Swivel ear cups allow
for easy one-ear monitoring. In addition, a convenient one-side exit coiled cable and neat folding design
add to their compact portability. The DN-HP700 headphones are scheduled to ship this month for a
manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $149.99.
DN-X120 Compact Performance Mixer: Great Sound Quality In Tight Portable Package
Designed as a replacement for the popular Denon DX-100, the new DN-X120 Compact Performance
Mixer offers unprecedented sound quality in a super-compact, tight package. One of the smallest
professional-quality DJ mixers on the market, the new DN-X100 features dual switchable phono/lines,
with 2 line inputs as well as advanced 45mm VCA faders, microphone input and 3-band EQ. Balanced
and unbalanced outputs offer total flexibility, and a 10 segments level meter adds to the unit’s utility and
performance. The streamlined portable unit also offers the many advanced features that made the DX-
100 the compact mixer of choice for many top professional DJs, such as cross fader and channel fader
reverse, channel fader contour, program channel reverse, gain control, headphone split cue and more.
The DN-X120 is scheduled to ship in March 2008 with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of
$299.99.
# # #
About D&M Professional
D&M Professional, parent of Denon Professional, Marantz Professional and Denon DJ,
manufactures and distributes a reliable line of professional audio and video equipment for the
broadcast, commercial, corporate, DJ, education, government, audio/visual, education, houses
of worship, security, and related industries.
Visit D&M Professional at www.d-mpro.com.
or Denon DJ at: www.denondj.com
About D&M Holdings Inc.
D&M Holdings Inc. is a global operating company providing worldwide management and
distribution platforms for premium consumer, automotive, commercial and professional audio
and video businesses including Denon®, Marantz®, McIntosh® Laboratory, Boston
Acoustics®, Snell Acoustics, Escient®, Denon DJ, Calrec Audio, D&M Professional and D&M
Premium Sound Solutions. Our technologies improve the quality of any audio and visual
experience.

“Two Decks in One” Spinning Style DN-HS5500

– “Two Decks in One” Spinning Style DN-HS5500 Features Independent Dual Deck-Like Operation,
with Separate Audio Outputs, USB and MIDI Control and More -
Anaheim, CA, January 17, 2008 - Denon DJ, a leading manufacturer of reliable, premium-grade DJ
equipment, will debut its new Model DN-HS5500 Direct Drive Turntable Media Player &
Controller at NAMM 2008, a groundbreaking portable DJ instrument that provides working DJs with a
host of leading-edge features and enhanced creative flexibility. The DN-HS5500 literally gives users
“two decks in one,” offering independent dual deck-like operation, with separate audio outputs from
decks 1 and 2.
“Two Decks in One” Provides Twice the Creative DJ Power
Key to the DN-HS5500’s breakthrough flexibility and utility is that it literally doubles the capabilities
and creative options of a single-deck unit by offering DJs an elegant single component solution, with the
power to easily operate decks #1 and #2 simultaneously with the flip of a button. Each of the DNHS5500′
s two decks provides full access to all available features as well as all connected outboard
devices and music library. Another key advancement is that when used as a MIDI controller each of the
DN-HS5500’s two decks can fully control two players from a DJ’s favorite software, such as
PCDJ/Reflex LE, Serato Scratch LIVE, Traktor, Virtual DJ, etc.
Tomorrow’s DJ Technology Today: The Breakthrough Modular HDD/CD Option!
Another of the DN-HS5500’s industry-leading characteristics is its breakthrough Modular HDD/CD
Option. With this powerful and unique design, DJ’s now have full control over their internal hardware
preference by choosing the Denon optional (BU5501) Slim-type CD-ROM drive or a standard PATAtype
2.5″ laptop size Hard Drive as the secured “internal” source playback. When coupled with the DNHS5500′
s cutting-edge 2-deck capability, DJs now have access to a host of heretofore unimagined
media advantages.
Built-in USB Audio Internal 24-Bit Processing adds to the advanced performance capabilities of the
DN-HS5500, which encompasses its own USB audio interface (sound card), eliminating the hassle of
sourcing one - and spending additional money. In addition, thanks to a special D-Sync function, users
can add even more creative power by linking two DN-HS5500 players together via a single RJ45 crosscable
(not included) for MASTER/REMOTE operation. This easy operation enables the DJ to make all
peripheral connections to a single player while having full control of music devices from either side.
Noted Denon DJ Brand Manager Silvio Zeppieri: “Denon DJ is 100% committed to giving working DJs
the tools they need to succeed and express themselves creatively, and our new DN-HS5500
demonstrates why we are the company that DJs turn to when they want the most innovative and reliable
solutions they need to express themselves and expand their creative horizons. Many other competitive
systems available on the market today would require two separate players to perform what the DNHS5500
offers in an affordable single-component solution. This single breakthrough device offers a host
of innovative, easy-to-use features and capabilities that truly open up new realms of creative possibilities
for DJs to explore.”
Innovative “Spinning” Turntable Style MIDI Controller with Control of DJ Software
The innovative Denon DN-HS5500 is a “spinning” turntable style MIDI Controller with Sound Card
that gives users the advanced capability of controlling various DJ MAC/PC application software. In
addition to its ability to interface and control external Hard drives, iPods and other connected music
devices, it offers an extensive palette of special effects and features. Most notably, DJs have access to
three separate platter effects, including Brake (adjustable in real time), Dump (reverse sound without
losing true forward time, like a radio edit), and Reverse, which plays your music backwards as the
platter spins backwards. In addition, DJs have access to 5 superb built-in DSP effects, making it easy to
build the mood on the dance floor. DJs can easily activate and have access to full parameter adjustments
with a unique Dry/Wet mix control of the effects, including Flanger, Filter (High-Mid-Low), Echo, Tail
Echo and amazing Echo Loop.
Another useful function is Denon DJ’s exclusive “Mirror Mix” feature, which is like having two copies
of the same track while juggling the mixer’s crossfader back and forth with the other track being slightly
delayed. Delays are adjustable from 1/8, ¼, ½. 1/1, and 2/1. In addition, the unit’s Play List Creation and
Hot List: function lets you cerate, edit and save up to 3 different types of Playlist categories. Other
features include an advanced support for three types of keyboard, Intuitive File Navigation, Pitch Range
and Deep Pitch Resolution and more.
The Denon DN-HS5500 is expected to be available in early February for a manufacturer’s suggested
retail price of $1,299.99
# # #
About D&M Professional
D&M Professional, parent of Denon Professional, Marantz Professional and Denon DJ,
manufactures and distributes a reliable line of professional audio and video equipment for the
broadcast, commercial, corporate, DJ, education, government, audio/visual, education, houses
of worship, security, and related industries.
Visit D&M Professional at www.d-mpro.com.
or Denon DJ at: www.denondj.com
About D&M Holdings Inc.
D&M Holdings Inc. is a global operating company providing worldwide management and
distribution platforms for premium consumer, automotive, commercial and professional audio
and video businesses including Denon®, Marantz®, McIntosh® Laboratory, Boston
Acoustics®, Snell Acoustics, Escient®, Denon DJ, Calrec Audio, D&M Professional and D&M
Premium Sound Solutions. Our technologies improve the quality of any audio and visual
experience. All product and brand names with a trademark symbol other than those third party
marks listed below are trademarks or registered trademarks of D&M Holdings, Inc. or its
subsidiaries. For more information, visit http://www.dm-holdings.com/.
PCDJ and Reflex are registered trademarks of D1 Audio, Inc. Serato Scratch LIVE is a
registered trade mark of Serato Audio Research. Virtual DJ is a product of Atomix Productions.
Traktor is a registered trade mark of Native Instruments.

Shure Micro Bodypack is Smaller than Small

This year’s National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) marked the industry debut of the new Shure UR1M Micro-Bodypack. Offering superior wireless audio in an ultra-compact package that is about half the size of most standard bodypacks and weighing just three ounces with two AAA batteries, the UR1M is designed to be easily concealed and worn comfortably by actors, performers, musicians, and public speakers.

Operating with the premium Shure UHF-R® wireless microphone system using the latest version of the Shure Wireless Workbench software, the subminiature device uses the patented Shure Audio Reference Companding technology to deliver crystal-clear audio and a 60-75 MHz tuning range (region dependent)—twice that of any other bodypack on the market. Tunable in 25 kHz increments and providing a sum total of up to 3,000 selectable frequencies, the UR1M additionally offers:

• selectable 10mW or 50mW RF power
• up to nine hours of battery life
• audio level metering
• a backlit LCD display

During the manufacture of each UR1M, the circuit board is specially treated to greatly enhance the sweat resistance and durability of the device, allowing it to be worn close to the skin. As easy to use and setup as any other UHF-R Series product, the miniature bodypack complements its list of functional features with a choice of TQG or Lemo-3 connectors and selectable alkaline, lithium primary, or NIMH battery curves for accurate power metering.

The UR1M was the only bodypack used during the broadcast of the 2008 Academy Awards, worn by host Jon Stewart with a Shure WL51 cardioid subminiature lavalier microphone. It also was used at the 2008 Miss America Pageant and is currently on tour with Maroon 5. The UR1M has a suggested retail price of $3,198 (UR1M/LEMO3 is $3,298) and will be available globally from authorized Shure dealers in summer 2008.

“There are certainly other miniature bodypacks out there, but the new UR1M is the first that I consider to be part of a superb sounding wireless microphone system,” notes audio engineer Don Worsham, one of the first to put the device to work in the field. “In-back-to-back comparisons we made on the set at this year’s Miss America pageant with a full-size pack, we found that we couldn’t distinguish the difference. The miniature pack offers the same improved frequency response and dynamic range, and performs with identical signal-to-noise and low distortion characteristics. I’m still wondering how Shure managed to cram all of that into such a small space.”

Shure Expands Countryman Offerings

SHURE EXPANDS COUNTRYMAN OFFERINGS
New Models Complement UR1M Micro-Bodypack 
NILES, IL, April 14, 2008-As a distributor of Countryman products, Shure Incorporated has expanded its lineup of Countryman Earset and Micro-Lavalier microphones to include new models and color options ideally suited for use with its new UR1M Micro-Bodypack. In addition, Countryman’s Type 85 Direct Box will now be available from Shure.

 
Providing exceptional sound quality and comfort while remaining virtually invisible to the audience, the latest Countryman products being distributed by Shure are sold in configurations offering multiple coverage patterns, skin tone colors, and feature two types of connectors.

 
Perfect for wireless applications in which concealment is a priority, the WCE6 and WCE6i Earset microphones are the smallest and lightest in their class. Nearly impossible to detect against a wide variety of skin tones, the microphones are outfitted with a rugged, bendable boom that ensures a custom fit for every user.

 
All-purpose, just as reliable and equally easy to hide, the Countryman WCB6 Micro-Lavalier microphone now available from Shure is smaller than the cable of other lavalier mics at only .1 inches thick. Sold in colors that blend in an undetectable fashion with clothing and different skin tones, this subminiature device performs very reliably while offering excellent rejection of surrounding noise.

 
The last of the new Countryman products shipping from Shure is the Type 85 Direct Box. Sleek and nearly indestructible, the low-profile device delivers the purest signal possible to the mixing console with no added coloration, distortion, or loss of dynamic range.

 
The WCE6 and WCE6i Earset microphones have suggested retail prices starting at $488.50. The WCB6 Micro-Lavalier lists for $571.85, while the Type 85 Direct Box is $231.07.

 
About Shure Incorporated

 

Founded in 1925, Shure Incorporated (www.shure.com) is widely acknowledged as the world’s leading manufacturer of microphones and audio electronics. Over the years, the Company has designed and produced many high-quality professional and consumer audio products that have become legendary for performance, reliability, and value. Shure’s diverse product line includes world-class wired microphones and wireless microphone systems for performers and presenters, award-winning earphones and headsets for MP3 players and smartphones, and top-rated phonograph cartridges for professional DJs. Today, Shure products are the first choice whenever audio performance is a top priority.

 
Shure Incorporated corporate headquarters is located in Niles, Illinois, in the United States. The Company has additional manufacturing facilities and regional sales offices in China, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, The United Kingdom, and the United States.

 

Personality vs. Technology by Mike Foxx

Thoughts about the appropriate place of tools (toys) and temperamentLike most DJs, I love having cool stuff. Lots of it. Every time I get a little extra cash, I think of a thousand more things I’d like to have. But I’ve come to realize that having cool gear doesn’t get you more work. Cool toys are great, but it’s the PERSONALITY of the jock that seals the deal. After all, there is no better sales tool than someone seeing your work at a gig. Think of it this way: We’ve all seen the dorky guy who can afford the real nice car, but has no clue on how to drive it.
I see so many DJ websites where DJs apparently cannot pass up the opportunity to talk about their gear! I’ve even seen sites that show pictures of their spouse, their kids…and the trailer they use to haul their gear!
But does all this matter to a potential customer?
Let me explain it this way. My 9 to 5 is as a commercial copywriter. Clients pay me to write and produce radio commercials that will get customers into their store. This is done not by appealing to the client, but by sticking to information that will attract the customer.
So, how does the cool stuff you choose affect the amount of jobs you get?

Props
To cut to the chase…I don’t like ‘em! Never did. I’ve had more brides who were glad to hear that I don’t use them. I’ve had few occasions where I was asked to bring blow-up props. They were a big hit with the four-year olds, and I ended up bringing most of them home. I used the same bunch of props for three years. In fact, I think I still have some of them in the garage somewhere. In my experience, a real “party” crowd doesn’t need props to have a good time. (Just a little alcohol.) A quiet and dull crowd will avoid them, and make you regret taking two hours to blow them all up.
Lights
Every time I talk to potential customers (typically brides), they ask if I bring a light show. I have lights. I bring them to every job, except for daytime or outdoor gigs.
I don’t charge extra for using lights; I feel its part of the whole package.
I have enough lights to add a little sparkle, create a little distraction, and make for good pictures. I like my lights because they are simple, easy to load, and light enough to carry. They’re small enough to fit into any space, but big enough to fill almost any hall.
I see pictures on some websites of thousands of dollars in lights, often mounted on huge trusses. They require an extra hour to set up, and most of them wouldn’t fit into HALF of the places I play. I think the only people they are really trying to impress are OTHER disc jockeys.
Besides, most guests would rather act crazy when no one can see them. Light them up with 10,000 watts of power, and they tend crawl into a shell.

Sound
Some websites take the time to list every piece of equipment the DJ owns. Some even go to the trouble to show you pictures, and give the model numbers.
Once again, who are they trying to impress?
In all my years, no bride has ever asked me what kind of CD players I use. No one has ever asked me how many watts of power I can “put out.” And they certainly never made their decision based upon what brand I use, or whether I prefer the “1300 Series or the new “1400 Series!”
As for me, I have equipment that I like to work with. I went to a lot of trouble to pick each item, based upon my tastes, and my budget. I take great care of it, maintain it regularly, it sounds great and works just fine.

Computers
I am still lugging around my CDs. Yes, I’ve decided that my next cool item to buy will be some sort of computer or MP3 player. But I am not sold on “digital” just yet. Most technology is not truly dependable until it’s been tried and tested for LONG time. Think of how often they come out with new video game systems. As for dependability, look at it this way. If computers were dependable ALL the time, we wouldn’t need Computer Guys to fix them all the time. I try to see it from the customer’s point of view. They see a DJ using only a laptop or a couple of iPods® and think, “Heck, I coulda done that!” I feel that if a customer is paying you big bucks, they want to see gear on the table. Then, at least, they can feel that you’ve earned your pay, just by loading it in!
Personally, I still like CDs. I use them as inspiration. When I am stuck for a song to play next, I can look at all the titles on the edge of the jewel cases, and it sparks an idea. Having everything in the computer requires me to have a VERY good memory, which I don’t. (What was I just talking about?)
In the end, a great personality with average gear is still more entertaining than someone with no talent and the best equipment that money can buy. The only thing that really matters to a potential customer is…Can you do the job, have some fun, and make people dance? (And how much it’s gonna cost, of course!)
They need to feel comfortable and confident in YOU, not your gear!
(And in case you care, I’ve always preferred the 1300 SERIES)

Mike Foxx has been in the music business since 1981, beginning his career at WZZO radio (Z-95) in the Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania. He is now a production manager and also remains on the air, besides maintaining a thriving mobile DJ business. After 25 years, he feels like he “seen it all” and “done it all” but somehow still manages to entertain himself as much as the listeners and party guests!

 

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