Computer Music Special: Laptop DJ

We all know that the computer provides the perfect platform for music production, but these days, a Mac or PC (particularly one of the laptop variety) has become an essential tool for DJing, too. In the latest

Computer Music Special

- known as

Laptop DJ

- we show you how to get creative with your (probably vast) collection of music files by mixing them up in the best of today´s DJing software.

Get started

We´ve got easy-to-follow tutorials for all the most popular DJing apps, including Ableton Live, Native Instruments Traktor, Image-Line Deckadance, M-Audio Torq, Numark Cue, Sony Acid Pro and MixMeister Fusion. You´ll find demos for most of them on the cover CD, so you can be mixing within minutes!

Choose the right gear

Not sure what you need to start DJing? Don´t worry - we´re here to explain.

Laptop DJ

contains guides to buying an audio interface, MIDI controller and timecoded system, and we also pick out the best DJing software and music download stores on the net. Plus, there´s an exhaustive A-Z reference guide that busts all the relevant jargon.

Advanced techniques

As well as showing you the basics, we also explain how you can spice up your mixes with effects. There´s a guide to VJing, too - perfect for anyone who wants to starting mixing video as well as audio - and suggestions on how you can take your DJing career to the next level.

Win!

A Native Instruments Traktor Scratch system is up for grabs, as are copies of the Traktor 3 software and an Audio Kontrol 1 audio interface!

Computer Music Special vol.24: Laptop DJ is available from:

UK/Europe: Selected WH Smith, Borders and independent newsagents. On sale now!

North America: Selected Borders and Barnes & Noble outlets from August 15

Or order online now from:

www.myfavouritemagazines.co.uk

. (Select 'Computer Music' in the ALL MAGAZINES drop-down menu.)

Comments? Questions? Email us at

cmspecial@futurenet.co.uk

.

Ben Rogerson

I’m the Deputy Editor of MusicRadar, having worked on the site since its launch in 2007. I previously spent eight years working on our sister magazine, Computer Music. I’ve been playing the piano, gigging in bands and failing to finish tracks at home for more than 30 years, 24 of which I’ve also spent writing about music and the ever-changing technology used to make it.