Buying A Laptop For DJ'ing

Forde_1 · 06-11-2011 04:22PM #1

Hi Guys,

I'm hoping to start DJ'ing soon and I'm going to buy a new laptop. I've asked a few people and they have said to go for a MAC but with my budget I cant afford one. Just looking for some advice on what laptops people would recommend I have a max budget of €800.

Hope ye can help me out!

Logical Fallacy · 06-11-2011 05:56PM

I've never had anyone offer me a valid reason as to why a MAC would be required for DJing.

A decent Dell will do the job just fine.

Forde_1 · 06-11-2011 07:12PM

cheers thanks... any idea what sort of spec I should be aiming for?

leggo · 06-11-2011 07:45PM

Logical Fallacy wrote: »

I've never had anyone offer me a valid reason as to why a MAC would be required for DJing.

A decent Dell will do the job just fine.

Mac isn't a requirement, I got by fine with a Sony Vaio for a few years. A couple of hiccups and near heart attacks along the way but nothing any punters ever even noticed. The worst (software-wise, equipment is another story) was having to re-install software as I started a mobile gig so whacked on a mix I'd made for such an emergency. Was back up and running within 10 minutes.

So yeah, especially if you're just starting out as a hobby then you'll get decent laptops for a few hundred. If you have to go on a shoestring, get a notebook, store all your tunes on a portable HD and you may even have change for a cheap controller.

When you're taking it more seriously though, Macs are considered professional standard due to their processors for speed/reliability. And you'll notice the difference when you use one.

Anima · 07-11-2011 09:11AM

DJing doesn't require that much power afaik. The only thing that would be taxing would be effect processing.

I think something that is much more important is reliability. You can't be playing out live and then all of a sudden you get buffer under runs or just gaps in sound.

For that reason I'd probably go with a cheap Mac because in general they are more reliable.

Edit: Just thought I'd add that I'd normally be the one advising to get a PC!

DubDJ · 07-11-2011 05:25PM

A Mac isn't a requirement for DJ'ing but it is a more reliable DJ tool. I've used Windows for the last 5 years+ and have had a number of different issues over the years, some worse than others.

Have a Mac now the last few weeks and have yet to deal with a single problem.

BTW Apple offer refurbs time to time. I've seen Macbook Airs (which are perfect for on-the-go DJ'ing due to portability) in the refurb section of the site for €699-799. So they aren't too expensive seeing as they are one of the most reliable machines out there imo. Run with flash memory also so it's instant on.

You could also go for a Windows based machine. Try aim for Core i3, i5 or i7 processor and at least 4GB RAM. Using 2GB of RAM with certain DJ programs will lead to crashes and issues as i've experienced before.

sweetie · 07-11-2011 09:42PM

I know people who have virtual Dj running on a stripped down netbook as backup to main laptop. Personally I'd get an i3 from a reliable brand and buy a better mixer/controller.

Heisenberg1 · 08-11-2011 12:26PM

I run a Dell studio XPS with i5 have it around a year i never have a problem with it when using Abelton.

Forde_1 · 08-11-2011 10:53PM

Thanks for the info guys... I have been looking at the Dell but I have been looking at a HP this is the link have a look and let me know what ye think...
http://www.hp.com/united-states/campaigns/holiday-beats/envy14_beats.html

CyberWaste · 08-11-2011 11:08PM

A laptop like a thinkpad or a dell would do fine.
My laptop is a Lenovo Thinkpad SL510. Its running Win7 HP 64bit. Its got 4gb ddr3 ram, dual core processor, 500gb HD. Nothing fancy but does the job perfectly. The laptop is built like a tank too with metal sides and a metal back, very well built so can take a knock or 2. Also its got a keyboard that is splash resistant, in that water (or beer for those drunk fools) can drain from the keyboard and out the bottom of the laptop without damaging the internals of the laptop. Best thing is that it was only €290 new a few months ago on www.saveonlaptops.co.uk

Something like that would do fine.

was.deevey · 09-11-2011 08:11AM

If you are going PC, I'd go with the Thinkpad 100% over a HP or Dell TBH for reliability and build quality.

We bought 5 Hp lappy's at differing times and differing models for staff, they all died (motherboards) within 3 months of the warranty expiring.

Dell I'm not a big fan of due to their mega high first year failure rate (defiantly not what you want at a gig).

Oh and the "Beats" thing is a gimmick, you aren't going to DJ using laptop speakers anyhow.... and at that price you'd get a Refurb Macbook.

rcaz · 09-11-2011 01:18PM

TIL that Thinkpads are they only laptops that are allowed on the international space station :cool:

elvis jones · 10-11-2011 02:25PM

Logical Fallacy wrote: »

I've never had anyone offer me a valid reason as to why a MAC would be required for DJing.

A decent Dell will do the job just fine.

Here is one.

6 years using a mac daily.............never crashed.

Use a PC ( dell ) in work daily...........crashes at least once a week.

I need to know when i turn on my computer that 4 hrs later it will still be going, using a Mac gives me that confidence.

was.deevey · 10-11-2011 03:41PM

I was on the receiving end for going round the country replacing Dell Optiplex machines that globally had a 97% failure rate... fun times.

In fairness to Windows 7 its closed the Mac/PC gap considerably when it comes to OS choice, I've been using it on and off in bootcamp and it screams speed wise.

The hardware is now really the weakest link where it comes to reliability, Mac still tops it where thats concerned, but IBM a close second, they just don't look as pretty by a longshot.

But in your case I'd go with the Thinkpad

Logical Fallacy · 10-11-2011 10:10PM

elvis jones wrote: »

Here is one.

6 years using a mac daily.............never crashed.

Use a PC ( dell ) in work daily...........crashes at least once a week.

I need to know when i turn on my computer that 4 hrs later it will still be going, using a Mac gives me that confidence.

Sorry, just not good enough. Been using PC's since i was 16, so that's 14 years, never had a crash. Not once.

Did easily 2 or 3 dozen gigs with my laptop over the course of a year, never had an issue.

Windows is open architecture, if you look after it right it will be absolutely fine. Your IT guys in work obviously can't set up a system for ****, it really is that simple with regard to the crashing.

So confidence in my system really isn't an issue for me...mainly because i know what i am doing with it. I can understand how it would be an issue when stuff is getting piled into all hap hazardly as tends to happen in the workplace.

My old job was all PC's and they crashed regularly because the IT department was, once again, **** at their job.

Just how things go in the work place sadly.

rcaz · 10-11-2011 10:42PM

Logical Fallacy wrote: »

Sorry, just not good enough. Been using PC's since i was 16, so that's 14 years, never had a crash. Not once.

Did easily 2 or 3 dozen gigs with my laptop over the course of a year, never had an issue.

Windows is open architecture, if you look after it right it will be absolutely fine. Your IT guys in work obviously can't set up a system for ****, it really is that simple with regard to the crashing.

So confidence in my system really isn't an issue for me...mainly because i know what i am doing with it. I can understand how it would be an issue when stuff is getting piled into all hap hazardly as tends to happen in the workplace.

My old job was all PC's and they crashed regularly because the IT department was, once again, **** at their job.

Just how things go in the work place sadly.

Yeah you can set up Windows to work perfectly, but you could better use that setup time on tunes, right?

FWIW I use OSX, Windows 7 and Xfce fairly equally. Do all my music stuff on OSX.

was.deevey · 11-11-2011 01:50PM

Windows is open architecture, if you look after it right it will be absolutely fine. Your IT guys in work obviously can't set up a system for ****, it really is that simple with regard to the crashing.

So confidence in my system really isn't an issue for me...mainly because i know what i am doing with it. I can understand how it would be an issue when stuff is getting piled into all hap hazardly as tends to happen in the workplace.

See thats the issue right there "if you look after it right" .. why should you need to be a techno head (not in a music sense) to get the most & avoid trouble from your OS.

Logical Fallacy · 11-11-2011 02:44PM

was.deevey wrote: »

See thats the issue right there "if you look after it right" .. why should you need to be a techno head (not in a music sense) to get the most & avoid trouble from your OS.

I'm not a techno head, i just don't go installing every random piece of conflicting **** i find about the place on my computer.

Treat a computer the way an upstanding and chaste woman treats her vagina...don't go sticking everything you find inside it.

was.deevey · 11-11-2011 09:19PM

I can understand how it would be an issue when stuff is getting piled into all hap hazardly as tends to happen in the workplace.

I'm not a techno head, i just don't go installing every random piece of conflicting **** i find about the place on my computer.

The fact that you say that in the first place validates you having a better understanding than many MANY people with regards to successfully running a windows rig.

As you well know, it doesn't even take installing anything par se just someone clicking on a random link is enough to get infected with all manner of niceties.

leggo · 11-11-2011 09:30PM

I always tell people "If you need a Mac, you'll know you do beforehand." In other words, save your cash unless you specifically know exactly why you need one. For starting out DJ-ing, Windows will do. But down the line you may decide you need the extra reliability of Mac OS. It is better suited, yeah, but not something I'd push on someone either.

ironclaw · 11-11-2011 09:57PM

DubDJ wrote: »

BTW Apple offer refurbs time to time. I've seen Macbook Airs (which are perfect for on-the-go DJ'ing due to portability) in the refurb section of the site for €699-799.

They are not the best for DJing. Get a Pro, they are far more stable and offer more horsepower for a fraction more.

I started on a MacBook Pro 13" and moved recently for a 15" Quad Core with 8GB of RAM. I've never, ever had a crash and I've had upwards of 4GB in the RAM stack.

While I'd be biased, I cannot urge you enough to go Mac. There is a reason nearly every studio in the world runs MacOS and why the major production suites are based on Mac. They are incredible when it comes to audio and video production. They are far more stable on a technical level. They also hold their value unlike Windows machines (Bought my 13" for €1200 two years ago, sold for €900 a month ago)

A lot of people who are anti Mac, are so because of the price range or because of the belief if you own a Mac your an anti-social hipster

Believe me, they are worth every penny as no other operating system or build quality comes close.

Save your money, buy cheap and you'll buy twice. Nothing in DJing is cheap, and if it is cheap, its probably going to be a short term solution.

DubDJ · 12-11-2011 07:39PM

ironclaw wrote: »

They are not the best for DJing. Get a Pro, they are far more stable and offer more horsepower for a fraction more.

Obviously a Macbook Pro would be better but as far as the Air goes it should do just fine. 4GB RAM intel i5 dual core. More than meets the minimum requirements of most DJ software/hardware. Flash memory comes as standard which is also a big bump over the Macbook Pro. And it's built just as reliably as a Macbook Pro.

PremierDJ · 13-11-2011 11:13AM

I'd buy a new generation i3, with a min of 4gb RAM. Don't install tonnes of crap on it and keep it off the net, use it just for DJing if possible. My three year old Dell has never crashed during a gig, it has legit DJ software installed and very little else. I would't spend more than €500 op, unless you are doing Video or something and need a good gfx card, you'll get a cracking machine for that money. Something like this would be fine for DJ work. What software will you be using?

ironclaw · 13-11-2011 12:53PM

DubDJ wrote: »

Obviously a Macbook Pro would be better but as far as the Air goes it should do just fine. 4GB RAM intel i5 dual core. More than meets the minimum requirements of most DJ software/hardware. Flash memory comes as standard which is also a big bump over the Macbook Pro. And it's built just as reliably as a Macbook Pro.

The Air meets the requirements, but as with all machines, that doesn't mean its suitable. The Air gets extremely hot when its under pressure. Yes its extremely fast but when things get hot, you can get serious problems developing. Also the battery life isn't great on them, not that it will be too big an issue when DJing but its handy to know if your charger fails (As has happened me) you can still do a gig.

was.deevey · 14-11-2011 04:54PM

The Air meets the requirements, but as with all machines, that doesn't mean its suitable. The Air gets extremely hot when its under pressure.

I've seen quite a few "Big Names" using Air's with Serato/Traktor/Ableton recently.. most DJ/audio applications don't cause thing to heat up half as much as playing 3d games or even watching youtube vids, (freaking flash player!!) thats when things really hot-up.

In saying that the OP has an 800 euro budget ... so getting away from the Mac Vs PC stuff realistically he'll be able to get.

1. Refurb Macbook (not pro)
2. Dell / Lenovo / HP / Asus / Samsung or something like that.

For a workhorse DJ Machine .. i'd be going with a dual Boot Lenovo for reliability and partition things off with a slimmed down, everything off OS for DJ'ing and another partition for general use.

DubDJ · 14-11-2011 09:09PM

was.deevey wrote: »

I've seen quite a few "Big Names" using Air's with Serato/Traktor/Ableton recently.. most DJ/audio applications don't cause thing to heat up half as much as playing 3d games or even watching youtube vids, (freaking flash player!!) thats when things really hot-up.

In saying that the OP has an 800 euro budget ... so getting away from the Mac Vs PC stuff realistically he'll be able to get.

1. Refurb Macbook (not pro)
2. Dell / Lenovo / HP / Asus / Samsung or something like that.

For a workhorse DJ Machine .. i'd be going with a dual Boot Lenovo for reliability and partition things off with a slimmed down, everything off OS for DJ'ing and another partition for general use.

+ An external HDD with a back-up of all your music (Just in case

)

Selik · 15-11-2011 10:46PM

ironclaw wrote: »

They are not the best for DJing. Get a Pro, they are far more stable and offer more horsepower for a fraction more.

I use the new Macbook Air (11") for Serato and it's a dream.... 4gb and i8 processor - runs like a dream with plenty to spare too

Zascar · 16-11-2011 04:44PM

I don't like Apple. They drive me nuts and I love to poke fun at them in general. I think iOS is pants and I have never really warmed to OSX I find it a pain in the ass compared to windows. However despite all this, I would still advise a DJ to buy a Mac. When it comes to Djing, controllers, drivers software etc etc - they just work. I've been DJing using software for nearly 10 years, and I've had every possible problem you can imagine including a crash mid set playing live, and I've even had to reinstall drivers before a gig. But never with the Mac. You just plug it in and go - and the software you just install and it works. And you can't really put a price on this. As much as it pains to to say it, they are just better for DJing.

I still think they have the ghey apart from that though.

SmallBalls · 11-01-2012 10:26AM

Lads, sorry for resurrecting an older post but I'm in the market for
a refurbed laptop/macbook for dj purposes only. Computer specs and
the like wash over me a bit so I'm not overly confident when buying these
things.

I'm using Serato Scratch, I'll post the minimum specs below.
iSeries processor's are out as theres a known issue with them
and Serato, AMD is also out. So I've sort of narrowed it down to a
Intel Core 2 Duo.

I had my eye on this but he ended it early ebay

Seen this thread and then started to look at Lenovo machines as a cheaper option.
Found this on ebay Lenovo Looks like a decent machine but like I said I'm a bit green when
it comes to these things so any opinions welcome. He also has other
machines for sale if you click the other items tab, maybe theres a
better one for me?

Cheers in advance.

Minimum specs:
PLEASE NOTE: These are the minimum requirements to run Scratch Live. For best performance and for use in professional situations we recommend you use a higher spec computer. We also recommend Intel processors.

Mac

Intel 1.8 GHz Core Duo (2.0 GHz, Core Duo for SL 4) or better (See Note 2)
2 GB RAM*
1024 x 768 screen resolution
OSX 10.5 or higher
Available USB port (USB 2.0 required for SL 2, SL 3, SL 4 & Sixty-Eight)
Windows

Intel processor, 2.0 GHz Core Duo or better (See Note 1 & 2)
2 GB RAM*
1024 x 768 screen resolution
Windows XP with Service Pack 3 or higher
Windows Vista with Service Pack 2 or higher
Windows 7
Available USB port (USB 2.0 required for SL 2, SL 3, SL 4 & Sixty-Eight)
*If you have a large library, you will benefit from having more RAM.

Note 1: Please read these FAQs first if you are looking at buying any of the following:

Windows based PC with Intel iSeres (i3, i5 or i7) processor
Windows based PC with Pentium P6xxx processor
Windows based PC with AMD processor
Note 2: If you are using Scratch Live 2.x's more system intensive features such as DJ FX or AUX Deck plugins and are having issues you may need a higher spec computer for best results or make sure you have optimized your system: Windows 7 and Vista / Mac OS X.

ironclaw · 11-01-2012 11:36AM

SmallBalls wrote: »

I'm using Serato Scratch, I'll post the minimum specs below.
iSeries processor's are out as theres a known issue with them
and Serato, AMD is also out. So I've sort of narrowed it down to a
Intel Core 2 Duo.

Talking purely specs wises, you'd be better off on the iSeries processors. I had a MacBook running a Intel Core 2 Duo and now I'm on a quad core i7. The difference is phenomenal. The issue specifically is based around USB:

Some users are encountering issues with computers featuring the newest Intel i3, i5, or i7 processors when used with USB 1.1 devices such as the Rane SL 1 or TTM 57SL.

So unless you using a USB 1.1 device, there really is no reason not to buy an iSeries. The problem also seems to be confined to Windows which I would not recommend for DJing unless its going to be used only for DJing (And I mean, only DJing)

Obviously a Intel Core 2 Duo would be cheaper but you'd be buying older by one generation, as opposed to buying the newest. I always tell people to buy the very best you can, because at the pace technology moves, you'll get the most bang for your buck. Again speaking techwise, your iSeries would be good for at least another two years+. Your Intel Core 2 Duo will at most be good for about a year. (Taking 18 months as the general life span and the introduction very soon of smaller chip sets)

Then again, its coming to the stage were your hard drive will slow you down, not the processor. SSD should be getting cheap in the next 12 to 18 months, and I'd urging people in that direction.

SmallBalls · 11-01-2012 01:30PM

ironclaw wrote: »

So unless you using a USB 1.1

Thanks for the reply ironclaw.

I should of said in the post I'm using a TTM 57SL so its USB 1.1 for me.
Moneys tight, maybe 500 - 600 max, so defo wont get
a Macbook with iSeries for that.

It's such a shame that Microsoft are being dicks with Serato
about the USB 1.1 thing. It'd make life easier if I could get
a laptop with an iSeries processor.

Laptop or Macbook will purely be used for DJing, nothing else.
Mostly bedroom stuff and a few house parties, but obviously
want something thats reliable, no dropouts.

Any thoughts on the Lenovo's in the link or keep searching for
a Macbook. I think I would of bought that Macbook if the seller
hadn't bailed early :cool:

Looking at this one now Macbook

Buying A Laptop For DJ'ing

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