DJing Without a Controller: Tips for Mobile DJs
It’s a DJ’s worst nightmare: you’re DJing at an event, and your controller dies. What do you do? DJ without a controller! This page will discuss the tips that DJs should know to prepare themselves if they find themselves in this situation. We’ll also include some alternatives for DJ controllers so that you never have to be unprepared again!
1. Use the right software and apps
When DJing without a controller, it’s important to know that you’ll need the right apps. DJ software like Serato and Rekordbox have their own mobile versions available for download in the app store. Using these will allow you to DJ on any iOS or Android device with no additional equipment needed!
But be aware of what features are included in each version: some are free while others require payment after purchase.
Some apps offer only limited features but provide unlimited access via an Internet connection, which is perfect if your event has WiFi access throughout. Practice using the app without a controller in case the worst happens.
2. Be prepared with a backup plan and gear
If you DJ without a controller, it’s important to have your backup plan in place. You’ll need all the best DJ gear and accessories that will allow you to DJ for hours on end!
Here are some items that might come in handy should the worst happen:
- A backup DJ controller for use with the DJ software
- Backup adapters in case the problem is a connection
- Backup headphones to monitor sound levels while mixing. These will ensure that you’re able to mix tracks flawlessly even if your gear dies on you!
With a backup plan and gear ready, the problems of not having a working DJ controller will be a lot less likely for you to encounter.
3. Get your gear ready
One of the best DJ practices is always to be prepared with your gear. Get everything ready in advance so that you won’t need to DJ without a controller in the first place! The more routine you have for packing up, tearing down, and so on, the less likely it will e for you to forget something or encounter issues! Have particular spaces for each part of your setup, making it harder to forget.
4. Alternatives to DJ Controllers
What happens when it’s time for setting up just before doors open, and your DJ controller fails on you as soon as it starts loading…? This nightmare scenario has happened often enough that we felt it was important to prepare DJs for the worst. If DJing without a controller is the only option left, there are some alternatives to DJ controllers.
- An iPad for mixing and controlling DJ software on your laptop
- A MIDI keyboard paired with an app like iMaschine or Beatmaker for syncing up songs
- The iPhone as a microphone for live karaoke performances!
DJing events can be lots of fun but could also take you by surprise if anything should go wrong. Make sure that you’re prepared to DJ without a controller in case disaster strikes. DJs need their gear handy at all times–especially during peak hours where everyone wants to dance and get down. DJing without a controller is no easy feat, but with the right DJ accessories in tow and some practice beforehand, DJing will be easier than ever.
5. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
If your DJ controller fails on you as soon as it starts loading… your stomach will drop. This nightmare scenario has happened often enough that we felt it was important to prepare DJs for the worst. Here are some tips on DJing without controller use:
– Use the right apps! There is DJ software available in-app form that can be downloaded and used with any iOS or Android device. Be aware of what features require payment if you’re using DJ software that is not free.
– DJing without a controller means you’ll need all the best DJ gear and accessories to DJ for hours on end. Here are some items that might come in handy should your DJ Controller fail: backup adapters, backup headphones, and/or a backup DJ controller (with the appropriate cables).
– DJing without a DJ controller is no easy feat, but with all the best DJ gear and accessories in tow, it will be easier than ever. Be prepared to DJ without a DJ Controller today, so you’re ready for tomorrow!
Stay Organized- Label everything!
As a DJ, you want to have as much fun as possible. But some things make the job more difficult than others. One of those things is forgetting what’s in your bag! Now go out there and rock it like no one else can! So here are two ways to avoid this problem and keep the party going strong- label everything with a permanent marker or use stickers (or both!).