Anybody want to help a real beginner

[roy_huntley]

Hi,

Im fairly computer savvy, however, know very little around DJing.

Ive previously done a few school discos (im a member of the PTA and to save the school money, i volunteered). THis was done using just my computer, iTunes and my creative inspire 7.1 speakers (yes, i know!).

Id like to beef the sound up a bit (well, alot!) and so ive obviously realised i need some beefier speakers and an amp. Im happying using the mouse/keyboard at the moment, although a mixer along with mixvibes would be fine to.

Thats pretty much where my knowledge ends. From what ive made out so far, when i buy the MixVibes Cross DJ kit, i get the software, a USB Sound Card and a MIDI controller to allow me to control the software. However, im stuck on the amp/speakers bit...how/what do i need to connect to the USB soundcard.

Would really appreciate any advice...ive been bumbling around websites/forums for a while now, and dont want to buy a load of kit that i dont need or wont do the job.

Thank you in advance.

[danielsoto]

How big is your audience?
will make you think->
How many speakers do you need?
personal opinion or open air gig, will make you wonder->
Do I want a subwoofer?

There are active/passive speakers/subwoofers. The difference is that the amplifier is built-in the active speaker. In the passive speaker you need an amplifier "sold separately".

WIth an amplifier, just make sure it has an RCA input for connecting you usb audio card.

You'd better talk to a local friendly dealer. They are there to suggest what you need. The only advice I can give is: if you feel uncomfortable on one store, GET OUT OF THERE!

You might by interested in the U-Mix Control Pro! A fine DJ soluction from MixVIbes!

Regards,
Daniel SG

[roy_huntley]

Thanks for your kind reply Daniel.

So far, ive decided for active speakers. Ones ive been looking at are:

Mackie TH15a
W-Audio PSR15a

Ive also seen Intimidation Intimidator which look quite novel, but im guessing they are a real bargain basement manufacturer ?

Audience size...probably a max of 100, but mostly 20-40. I dont think ill really need a separate subwoofer - school halls, church halls for kids parties etc...not really a need to bring the house down.

Any comments / experience on the above speakers ? do they sound about right ?

[danielsoto]

Hey Roy!

15 inch active speakers will sound superb for 50 people!
More power will annoy everyone.

I haven't tried those that you mentioned, but Mackie and MAudio are well known, respected brands. You shouldn't have any trouble with any of those.

You can always go do-it-yourself! I can send you some links if you want.

Regards,
Daniel SG

[christiankoopmann]

Hey,

on of my friends has the Mecki's and their sound is ok. The price is also ok for that power.

For myself I have two Wharfedale Pro EVP-X15 Tops with an QSC GX3 power amplifier. Every loudspeaker has 300W RMS and the amplifier too. It is enough for roudn 100 people.

You sad that you don't need a special low speaker for the extra "wooms " so the Macki or the M-Audio should be enough. But you must put them on a stand above ears to get the maximum range.
If they stands on the ground and a person stands in front of the speaker it is clarion quiter. So you need also stands for your speakers.

regards
Christian