If you want to learn to become a DJ, you’ll need to know how to set up a DJ system. It may seem daunting at first, but it’s easier than you think. So today I wanted to go over a few basic tips on DJ system setup.

I will assume you’ve already decided on which music medium you want to use. Turntables, CD players, and professional computer system soundcards will all have RCA outputs. You’ll want to connect RCA cables to the channel inputs on your mixer.

NOTE: Not all computer soundcards will come with RCA outputs. You may need to upgrade to a better soundcard. Specialized digital DJ systems like Serato will let you plug in with RCA cables.

Next, you’ll need to connect your DJ mixer to your amplifier and speakers. Some speakers have amps built into them, some need an external amplifier. If you are using speakers with built in amps (also called “powered speakers”), all you need to do is connect the mixer’s outputs to the speaker inputs. There should be both a left and right output on the mixer.

If your DJ system set up uses unpowered speakers, you’ll need to connect your mixer’s outputs to the inputs of the amplifier, and then connect the amplifier’s output to the input for the speakers.

When connecting the mixer to an amp or powered speakers, there are a few different cables you might encounter. Some mixers only have 1/4″ cable outputs, some only have RCA cable outputs. There are also XLR outputs on some mixers. Your mixer might have a combination of these outputs as well.

Not all amps and speakers use the same inputs either. You may find yourself in a situation when your mixer only has RCA outputs, and the amp has 1/4″ inputs. If this is the case, you’ll need to buy a converter to let you plug the RCA cables into an amp with 1/4″ inputs. These converters can be found at Radio Shack or any musical instrument store.

Once your DJ system setup is connected, plug in the power cords to all your equipment. Don’t turn it all on yet though, certain things needed to be powered up before others. First, turn on the power to your mixer, turntables, and any processors. Make sure the master volume is turned down on everything. Next, turn on your amp. If you turn on your speakers before the amp, you’ll hear a loud POP noise which is not good for the speakers.

Now that everything is turned on, start playing a track, and slowly adjust the level of your amp, speakers, and mixer until you can hear the music.

When it’s time to turn everything off, just reverse the process. Speakers off first, then amp, then DJ equipment.

These are just some basic tips on DJ system set up for beginner DJs.