DJ *SLANG* EXPLAINED! WHAT DO ALL THESE TERMS MEAN?

Summary

This video provides an in-depth guide to essential DJ and audio production terminology, offering insights into key concepts such as speaker types, feedback, DMX lighting, and musical terms like BPM, banger, and drop. It also covers advanced techniques for mixing, including cue points, acapella edits, and scratching techniques. From the basics of redlining to advanced concepts like harmonic mixing with the Camelot Wheel, the video equips DJs and audio enthusiasts with a rich vocabulary for navigating both live performances and studio work.

Takeaways

• 😀 Line arrays are designed for long-distance sound projection, ideal for large venues and outdoor events.
• 😀 Column arrays focus on vertical dispersion, providing clear audio in indoor spaces with complex acoustics.
• 😀 Traditional speakers, which include horns and subs, remain common for many standard PA setups.
• 😀 Feedback is the loud, screeching sound caused when a microphone picks up sound from a speaker, creating an interference loop.
• 😀 DMX is a protocol used to synchronize lighting systems with audio in live events.
• 😀 G-lock (Key Lock) ensures that the pitch of a song remains unchanged when its tempo is altered, useful in DJing.
• 😀 Redlining occurs when a sound system or mixer peaks at maximum volume, often resulting in distortion.
• 😀 Crates refer to collections or folders of music, originally linked to vinyl records but now used digitally in DJ software.
• 😀 BPM (beats per minute) measures the tempo of a song, helping DJs match beats when mixing tracks.
• 😀 A 'banger' is a term for a great track or an entire set that’s guaranteed to energize the crowd.
• 😀 Stems are isolated parts of a song (vocals, drums, etc.), allowing for more creative remixing and live performance options.
• 😀 Transition edits help DJs smoothly transition between songs, sometimes changing BPM, key, or tone to ensure a seamless mix.
• 😀 Scratch techniques such as the Baby Scratch, Chirp, and Crab are essential tools in DJing to create unique sound effects during live sets.

Q & A

What is feedback in the context of DJing?

Feedback is the loud, screeching noise that occurs when a microphone picks up sound from a speaker, causing a loop of interference. It usually happens when the microphone is too close to the speaker, resulting in a disruptive sound that is undesirable in live performances.

What does 'redlining' refer to in audio mixing?

'Redlining' refers to when the mixer’s volume indicators reach the red zone, signifying that the sound is peaking. This indicates the audio levels are at their maximum, which can cause distortion if the levels remain too high.

What are 'crates' in DJ terminology?

'Crates' originally referred to milk crates used to carry vinyl records, but in modern DJ software, 'crates' refer to folders or collections of music. They are the digital or physical storage places where DJs organize their tracks.

What is the 'Camelot Wheel' and how do DJs use it?

The Camelot Wheel is a tool used by DJs to assist in harmonic mixing. It helps DJs identify compatible musical keys for smooth transitions between songs. By using the wheel, DJs can select songs that are in compatible keys to maintain a harmonious mix.

What is the difference between 'acapella' and 'instrumental' tracks?

An 'acapella' track contains only the vocal parts of a song, with no instrumental elements, while an 'instrumental' track consists solely of the music with no vocals. Both versions are commonly used by DJs for remixing and live performance.

What does 'BPM' stand for and how is it used in DJing?

'BPM' stands for 'beats per minute' and measures the tempo of a track. DJs use BPM to determine the speed of a song and ensure that songs with similar tempos are mixed smoothly during a live set.

What is a 'banger' in DJ slang?

A 'banger' refers to a song that is highly energetic and popular on the dance floor. DJs may refer to a particular song as a 'banger' if it gets the crowd moving, or they may describe an entire event as a 'banger' if it was a great performance.

What does 'deep crates' mean in DJ terminology?

Having 'deep crates' refers to possessing a large and diverse collection of music, often with rare or underground tracks that aren't commonly played. DJs with 'deep crates' are known for playing unique and non-mainstream songs.

What are 'stems' in music production?

Stems are the individual audio tracks that make up a song, such as separate tracks for vocals, drums, bass, and instruments. DJs use stems to remix or manipulate specific elements of a song, giving them more control over the mix.

What is the purpose of a 'transition edit' in DJing?

A 'transition edit' is a modified version of a song designed to make it easier for DJs to transition between two tracks. These edits can involve changes in tempo, key, or rhythm to ensure a smooth flow when switching between songs.