Hi,
This is my first post here. Let me offer a little background --
I started on vinyl back in 2000. Then I added a pair of CDJs a few years later. A few more years and I moved to a hardware controller and software but I don't remember which. I was away for a few years and when I came back I bought a Traktor controller and used their software. I've been away again for a few years and looking to get started again...it keeps calling me back.
I have no plans at all to play live anywhere; expect possibly the internet. I used to have a monthly show on DI.FM (and was a part of a record pool) and would like to do something like that. I enjoy recording mixes. I don't really do any trickery on the mixer or throw in effects. I started playing old school progressive house (Bedrock, Hooj Choons, Baroque, etc) and those tracks were so good that they didn't need any help. However, I would like to play around with some of the new capabilities.
What has pulled me back was hearing this new (new to me, anyway) style of techno called Melodic House. I love the dark stuff. And I happened to come across a
Dubfire mix from TomorrowLand in 2018. I had tuned him out when he (Digweed, too) went techno because I don't care for that style, but this new stuff is outstanding! Many of the tracks sound to me like old school prog mixed with techno, and many of them are quite dramatic.
I am leaning toward using a controller - software combination (but inclined not to return to Traktor because I want to learn new gear) again but I have a few questions:
1. Is Rekordbox a software similar to Traktor? Meaning it's what I would use to mix and record with my MacBook?
2. Is there any other software out there worth checking out?
3. Is the high end Pioneer controller (XDJ-RX2) worth the money? Any problems mixing on that unit's small screen? Or...
4. Does it make more sense to go with a less expensive controller and use software since I already have the MacBook? Does the Rekordbox software come with Pioneer controllers? Is Serato a better option?
I am pretty stuck on using Pioneer gear because my experiences with this brand have always been positive. I remember buying my first DJM 500 at a pawn shop and feeling like I'd found the Holy Grail. But I am open to other brands.
I appreciate any help you all can give. I did read a bunch, but I want some advice from those who know from experience.
Marcus
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