How to Make My Computer Into a DJ System

Even digital DJs should use headphones.

Computers, technology and software have revolutionized the world of DJing. Where there was once a time when a DJs required two turntables, a mixer and crates of vinyl records to play a party, today's DJ requires nothing more than a laptop, an iTunes library and some audio cables to keep the party rocking all night long. With the right software and a little practice, anyone can turn their computer into a fully functional mobile DJ system.

Things You'll Need

• Laptop computer
• DJ software
• iTunes music library
• 1/4 inch to RCA cable

Instructions

1. Get some DJ software and load it onto your laptop computer. The most popular program is Serato Scratch but Traktor is a slightly cheaper alternative that is arguably just as good.

2. Follow the set-up prompts to get the software up and running and link it to your the music library on your computer. Once you have set up your program you will have full access to all your music files on your DJ software.

3. Boot up your DJ software. Find and activate preferences under the software menu. Set the preferences for the built-in input. Plug your computer into the sound system via the headphone jack on your computer using the quarter inch to RCA cable.

4. Find and select iTunes under the track collection menu on your DJ software. Find the tracks you would like to play and drag and drop them in the two channels shown on your DJ software screen interface.

5. Return to preferences under the command menu and select output routing. Set it for internal to activate the mixer on your DJ software. You are now ready to DJ anywhere and any time using nothing more than your laptop computer.

Tips & Warnings

• It's always a good idea to organize some play lists to choose from before you DJ using your computer. Otherwise, you could wind up having to sift through your entire music library to select a track. This can be very difficult to do under the pressure of a live DJ gig in front of a crowd.

• If at all possible, check your sound levels before people arrive. Also be prepared to jockey the sound levels as you cross fade from channel to channel as different songs are recorded at different levels.