How to Set the Volume Level on DJ Equipment

Volume level can make or break a party. If the music isn't loud enough, guests may fail to dance or come out of their shells. If the music is too loud, guests may leave because they cannot enjoy their conversations. Regardless of the volume level you choose, you must hook up your DJ equipment properly for optimum sound quality. Here are a few tips to get the signal from your CD player out through your speakers.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Ensure the CD player connections are correct. Connect the CD player to the mixer by running R/C inputs between the CD player and mixer; use balanced XLR outputs to connect the mixer to the amplifier. Hook up the speakers to the amplifier using a polarized banana plug. Always turn all volume levels down before turning on system power to avoid damaging equipment.

2. Play some test music. Load a CD into the tray and choose a track. If you are using a dual deck CD player, a button corresponds to each deck depending on through what channel and line you routed each deck. Slide the cross fader all the way to the left. Bring the volume up a little bit on the channel fader. Adjust the incremental master fader until the volume sounds just right.

3. Download volume control software if you use a digital mixer and MP3s or a computer to play your music. Programs such as Power Mixer allow you to change the sound volume by rotating the mouse wheel or using shortcut keys. Such programs include an audio mixer, a scheduler, on-screen display (OSD), command line support and customizable presets. See Resources below for more information.

Resources

• Power Mixer software