How to DJ on an Android Tablet

Choosing the Right Apps

Setting up your Android tablet for DJing starts with selecting the right apps. Several DJ apps for Android offer a range of features and functionalities. Here are some popular options:

WeDJ

• Developed by Pioneer DJ, WeDJ offers a user-friendly interface and features like beat synchronization, effects, and sample playback. It supports both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, making it easy to connect your tablet to external devices like controllers or turntables.

DJay

• DJay provides a seamless DJing experience, supporting various controllers and turntables. It includes features like beat detection, effects, and sample playback. DJay also integrates well with music apps like Spotify and SoundCloud.

Mixxx

• Mixxx is an open-source DJ app offering a free version with many advanced features. It supports multiple controllers and turntables, including beat detection, effects, and sample playback. A large community of users contributes to its development.

Serato DJ

• Serato DJ is a professional-grade app supporting a wide range of controllers and turntables. It offers advanced features like beat synchronization, effects, and sample playback. Serato DJ also integrates well with music apps like Spotify and SoundCloud.

Setting Up Your Hardware

To start DJing on your Android tablet, you'll need some hardware components. Here are the essentials:

DJ Controller

• A DJ controller is the primary hardware component for controlling your music. Popular options include the Pioneer DJ DDJ-400, Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2, and Numark Mixtrack Pro III.

Turntables (Optional)

• For a more traditional setup, use turntables with your Android tablet. This requires additional hardware like a USB turntable adapter or a vinyl-to-MIDI converter.

Headphones

• Good-quality headphones are essential for monitoring your mix. Look for headphones with flat frequency response and good isolation to hear every detail.

Speakers (Optional)

• To play your mix through speakers, you'll need monitor speakers or a portable speaker system. Ensure compatibility with your tablet's audio output.

Connecting Your Hardware

Once you have your hardware components, it's time to connect them to your Android tablet. Here's how:

Connecting a DJ Controller

• Most DJ controllers come with a USB cable that connects directly to your tablet. Plug in the USB cable and ensure your tablet recognizes the controller.
• If using a MIDI controller, you might need to install a MIDI driver on your tablet. Popular MIDI drivers include the MIDI Studio app or the iMIDI app.
• Open your DJ app and configure it to recognize the controller, usually by selecting it from a list of available devices.

Connecting Turntables (Optional)

• If using turntables, you'll need an adapter that converts the vinyl signal to MIDI or USB. Popular options include the Numark PT-01 USB Turntable or the Pioneer DJ PLX-500 USB Turntable.
• Connect the turntables to your adapter, then plug the adapter into your tablet using a USB cable.
• Configure your DJ app to recognize the turntables as MIDI or USB devices.

Configuring Audio Output

• Once all hardware is connected, configure your tablet's audio output settings. This can usually be done in the settings menu of your tablet or within the DJ app itself.
• Ensure that headphones or speakers are set as the default output device.

Tips for Better Performance

Here are some tips to help you get the best performance out of your Android tablet for DJing:

Practice Regularly

• DJing is all about practice. Regularly mix tracks to improve your skills and develop your own style.

Use High-Quality Tracks

• Use well-mastered tracks with clear beats. This makes it easier to mix tracks smoothly.

Adjust BPM Settings

• Make sure to adjust the BPM settings of your tracks to match each other. This helps in transitioning smoothly between tracks.

Use Effects Wisely

• Effects like reverb, delay, and flanger can enhance your mix. However, use them wisely to avoid making your mix sound cluttered.

Monitor Your Mix

• Always monitor your mix through good-quality headphones or speakers to ensure everything sounds right.

Keep Your Software Updated

• Regularly update your DJ app and any other software you're using to ensure you have the latest features and bug fixes.

Experiment with Different Controllers

• Different controllers offer various features and functionalities. Experiment with different controllers to find what works best for you.

Learn Basic Mixing Techniques

• Learn basic mixing techniques like beatmatching, phrasing, and blending. These techniques help create smooth transitions between tracks.

Watch Tutorials

• Watch tutorials and online courses to learn more about DJing techniques and how to use different apps and hardware.

Join a DJ Community

• Joining a DJ community provides a platform to learn from other DJs, get feedback on your mixes, and stay updated with the latest trends in DJing.

Advanced Features

Many DJ apps offer advanced features that can enhance your DJing experience. Here are some advanced features to explore:

Beat Detection

• Beat detection allows your app to automatically detect the beat of a track and sync it with other tracks, making it easier to mix tracks smoothly.

Effects

• Effects like reverb, delay, and flanger can add depth and interest to your mix. Many apps offer a range of built-in effects to enhance your tracks.

Sample Playback

• Sample playback allows you to add samples into your mix. This feature is useful for adding percussive elements or vocal snippets into your tracks.

Key Locking

• Key locking ensures that the key of your tracks remains consistent even when transitioning between tracks, maintaining harmony in your mix.

Pitch Shifting

• Pitch shifting allows you to adjust the pitch of a track without changing its tempo. This feature is useful for creating smooth transitions between tracks with different keys.

Cue Points

• Cue points allow you to mark specific points in a track where you want to start or stop playback. This feature is useful for creating seamless transitions between tracks.

Looping

• Looping allows you to repeat specific sections of a track. This feature is useful for creating repetitive beats or building up energy in your mix.

MIDI Control

• MIDI control allows you to control external devices like synthesizers or drum machines using your tablet, opening up a world of possibilities for live performances.

DJing on an Android tablet offers endless possibilities for creative expression and performance. With the right tools and techniques, you can create unique and engaging mixes. Practice regularly, experiment with different controllers and effects, and join a DJ community to take your DJing skills to the next level.