Sorry if this is a really stupid question, but if I'm going to use a PC (or a pair of them), do I need to buy a HD controller like the HD2500, which is obviously a great bit of kit, but expensive; when I 'think' I can do what I need to do with software, such as DSS DJ. I don't have unlimited funds, so I was thinking of this as an initial set-up:

AMD Duron 900mhz desktop PC with 120gb hard drive, 512mb ram, quality pci soundcard.
External USB hard drive for back-up, plus a separate back-up system based on a laptop.
Active speakers and various lights / bubbles / etc.

Packing the whole lot into flight-cases.

What am I overlooking? and my original question, do I need a controller, or can I use software?

TIA

John

Hi Key2 - the beauty with th DN-HD2500 is that you dont have to take any laptop or PC in front of an audience with it. The lappy or PC sits at home and only gets involved with the DN-HD2500 when you'd like to load songs or playlists onto the 2500. You dont even need a PC to load the songs onto the 2500 if you'd prefer to have as little PC involvement as possible.

Leave the lappy at home and just take the 2500, lights, mixer, active speakers etc.

U can just use the pc,

I used to use a laptop but have before that used a desktop pc with seperate sound card etc,

Sounds like youve got yourself a decent bit of kit there,

Hope everything goes ok.

If you need anymore help dont be afraid to ask.

Do not know a answer just want to say Welcome

If you want to use a PC with laptop as a back up you can connect them both into a DJ mixer along with your mic +back up CD player if req (useful to have, even a cheap walkman type in case someone brings you a CD at the event to play).

So it seems from your list that the thing you are overlooking is a mixer

Thanks, Paul.
That thought occured to me earlier today. I think I will have a look around for a dj mixer. Ebay has plenty, same old minefield, though!

John

Why not put a post in the wanted section here?

Im sure someone can lend a hand

Let us know how you get on

I currently use the Denon and it is a lovely piece of kit.

But as you say, expensive.

If you do use a PC certain software can use a 19" rackmount controller called a DAC- (currently upto version 3) this makes the PC act the same as the Denon would, or you could just use the controls that are on screen.

You DEFINATELY have to have a mixer... If you let us know your budget and what you would like to connect to it, we can tell you the best one to get and then you can shop around to find the best price.

I have seen quite a few on Ebetray for less than £50 including delivery. I think I need a mixer with 2 line channels, plus a channel for the mic. I'll keep watching the auctions and see what pops up. I don't want to rush into things...but I DO want to get started soon.

Thanks to everyone for all the advice that you have given. Much appreciated.

John

I have bought a Numark DM950 from whybuynew for £30 including delivery. I will use that to start, then it should be fine as a back-up. That's the first piece of the jigsaw puzzle that I have bought for my disco.
Still not rushing into anything, but now it will be a case of buying when I see the right item.

Cheers all

John