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Forum: General Discussion

Topic: New to CD decks, how do CD decks work with a computer/virtual DJ?

This topic is old and might contain outdated or incorrect information.

I sold my vinyl decks a long time ago and I'm now moving on to CD decks. I'm only 16 years old, just left school and just got a job again so please don't recommend Pioneers as I can't even afford one deck lmfao. I'm after buying 2 Numark NDX800's and a mixer. I know the decks are MIDI but would I need to have the mixer to include MIDI? I do not understand CD decks too well as I've had vinyl decks since I was 11! If some one could explain in detail but simply how CD decks and mixer work with Virtual DJ I'd be very happy!

Thanks!
 
Posted Fri 07 Oct 11 @ 7:54 am
Hi

You can switch the NDXs to act as controllers for VDJ - but I don't think that includes sound cards.

Often, kit like this connects via USB and not only controls the software, but can also act as an external sound card so that you can just use one set of cables for your audio into the mixer from the players.

From a brief look at the manual though, it doesn't mention any sound card capability, which is a shame as you'll have to also buy an external sound card.

Alternatively, if you did buy a mixer with USB audio, you could use that instead of an external card. But make sure it has two stereo USB audio channels in, not just one.
 
Thanks for the help! That's cleared it up for me a bit! So if I buy a mixer which features 2 USB holes then I won't need a soundcard? And dos the mixer like control the mixer on virtual DJ if you know what I mean? Like instead of constantly fiddling with the laptop/conputer, you can just use the mixer you got with your decks? Sorry if I'm confusing you!
 
So many people tend to get confused about the difference between the software mixer and the real one!

The one on screen is only there to enable you to mix with just the computer - if you have nothing better.

Once you start using external "real" DJ kit, the need for the on screen mixer disappears.

With a mixer that has two stereo USB channels, you can configure one VDJ deck to go to one channel fader of the mixer, and the other deck to go to the second channel fader, just like if you had two turntables plugged in.

Then you don't need or use the onscreen mixer, as the sound is coming straight out of VDJ into your real mixer.

Do you really need the ability to play CDs?

There are so many good controllers around now, that have built in sound. You could find one that does have sound, instead of the NDXs. Then you could use any mixer.
 
Groovindj has a good point.

If you are wanting to control virtual dj then you need to ask yourself "why do i need cd's".

Most songs can be purchased over the internet but if you already own a bunch of cd's then just rip them to you computer.

A midi controller may be your best option as these will have everyything built into one unit and will only require 1 usb.

If you buy 2 cd decks that are compatible with vdj and then a stereo usb mixer then first think of the below.

Each cd deck will require 1 usb socket, then your mixer will require 2 usb sockets, and if you have all your music on a external hard drive thats another 1 usb socket.

In total that would be 5 usb ports you would need to use all that equipment and lots of wires to untangle lol.
 
What's a CD deck?
 
Thanks for the reply! I understand more now. So you can't like drag a song to one of the CD players via VJD instead of using CDs or any USB sticks/external hard drive?
 
If you are already looking at Numark gear check out the MixDeck - Midi controller, analog mixer and 2 CDJ all in one package. Plug it in to the laptop with one USB cable and into the wall for power and your done. Nice and tidy.
 
 
If your going with a Mixdeck wait until the Mixdeck Quad comes out. The mixer section will be MIDI so you can mix video with the crossfader.

Happy Hunting
Huey
 
yep if your budget and timeline allows the MixDeck quad will be the way to go. It should be released before the end of the year and will be priced I believe at $999 If you can't wait or your budget is less the standard Mixdeck is still a decent option at $599 but the quad is going to be pretty sweet piece of kit.

Stay away from the Express.
 


In total that would be 5 usb ports you would need to use all that equipment and lots of wires to untangle lol.



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yeah like me... but if ur gonna have that many usb cables, make sure u have a 4 usb ext port that is powered.
 


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