Archive for August, 2009

18 August

Are Digital DJ Turntables Better?

Digital DJ turntables have become a staple in the modern DJ’s plethora of turntables surrounding him. The synthesized sound effects that only digital devices can produce are unique by their own rights, and the absence of a record to spin lessens the burden on the turntablist as he performs on stage. Purists, however, do not take kindly to technological shortcuts, citing a lack of skill and over-reliance on synthesized effects rather than bringing about the real thing. They argue that a true DJ doesn’t need shortcuts to get the job done – just more skill and creativity.

So the question remains: are digital DJ turntables better? The answer, as stupid as it sounds, is yes and no. First off, these digital turntables store and automate a lot of things, like storing music on flash memory, auto looping and cue point marking. These little things can be truly appreciated by a turntablist, as the automated work frees up his hands and mind to focus on manipulating the music for some pretty wicked sound and music enhancements. These digital DJ turntables also have a slip disk to emulate scratching a real disk, which is another added bonus in their favor.

One the other hand, some DJ’s and turntablists don’t like the artificial feel of the slip pad, and would like to have more control over the sounds that they produce. Analog DJ turntables prefer to get down into their music, popping a disk and scratching it out with their own hands. Analog turntables also require a heightened degree of skill to master, something which most DJ’s are very proud to possess. They also like to tweak around with the inner workings of their turntables, adjusting mechanical settings and incorporating the irregularities of their tables with their music.

What it all boils down to is the personal preference of the DJ or turntablist. Digital DJ turntables appeal to those who want more variety and jazz to their music, while analog DJ turntables appeal to those who want more control and snap to their music. Both can be put to good use by a skilled DJ, and both have their place in the clubs and parties.