If you’ve ever toyed with the idea of DJing yet aren’t quite ready to invest in a full deck, there’s good news awaiting you. With the incredible strides in mobile software, you can now kickstart your DJ journey using just your smartphone or tablet with the WeDJ App from Pioneer DJ.
Pioneer has long been the frontrunner in DJ equipment. Their consoles reign supreme in top-tier club setups around the globe, and their rekordbox software is heralded as the pinnacle of track management systems. Taking their innovation to another level, Pioneer has crafted the WeDJ app for on-the-go mix mastery.
Getting Acquainted
Credit: Pioneer DJ
The WeDJ app serves as a pocket-sized DJ platform suited not only for novices to dip their toes into track mixing but also for seasoned DJs eager to practice while out and about. Integrated with Soundcloud Go+ and Beatport LINK, the app allows for easy music streaming directly to your virtual decks.
Its beginner-friendly design means you can dive right in without any technical know-how. Upon launching WeDJ, helpful tutorials and pop-up hints offer an array of tips to get you started. This quick guide will walk you through what to expect and how to deftly navigate the app.
Scaling Up
Credit: Pioneer DJ
Although compact, WeDJ has the flexibility to grow with your skills. Attach a Pioneer DDJ-200 or DDJ WeGO4 controller to take your DJ game up a notch, using the app as your control center sans wires, thanks to Bluetooth Midi connectivity. This feature makes tangible mixing a breeze to set up.
With the option for stereo output splitting for pre-cueing master and monitor signals, you just need a split cable – provided with the DDJ-200 – to check your output before going live. The app will prompt you to connect a device from the start or you can find this option under Settings.
Essential Features
WeDJ includes all the fundamental tools for aspiring DJs to mix, create, and upload their sets. Central to the interface is a two-channel layout for syncing beats. The crossfader, located at the bottom, helps adjust the balance between songs, while the Play/Pause and Cue buttons manage individual tracks and set up precise entry points.
Spice up transitions with FX like Reverb and Echo, all while using the touchscreen to blend effects dynamically. A sampler enriches your mix with instant drums and loops, and with a three-band EQ, you take control over various sound frequencies. Fine-tune transitions with options for pre-cueing, and adjust BPM using a tempo slider—or the Master Tempo to avoid key fluctuations while mixing. Discover scratching techniques with functional jog wheels, and get creative with looping and the Slicer function. For those more laid-back sessions, there’s even an Automix feature.
Record and share your WeDJ sets, with support for popular formats like M4A, MP3, WAV, and AIFF, ensuring widespread compatibility.
Music Browsing Made Simple
At the top corners of WeDJ’s interface are musical note icons leading to the Browse screen. Here, you can sift through tracks, playlists, and more, easily loading a song onto a deck simply by tapping it. The suggestion list uses an algorithm to recommend compatible tracks, providing inspiration at your fingertips.
Jog Wheel and Waveform Views
Switch between jog wheel and extended vertical waveform views with the wave icon on WeDJ. Both allow for scratching maneuvers by dragging back and forth. Customize the waveform colors via the Settings and navigate through your track with the full waveform guide at the top of the screen.
The Performance Panel
At the heart of WeDJ is the Performance Panel, accessed by tapping the icon with four squares. Here, access the Mixer, Sampler, Pad FX, and Automix features for both your decks, or just one by swiping left or right. Toggle between Mixer, Hot Cue, Loop, Combo FX, Pad FX, and Sampler functions within this panel.
Looping Like a Pro
Looping in WeDJ repeats track segments in time, controlled within the Performance Panel. Set the IN/OUT points and adjust loop lengths for escalation effects. Activate loops manually or let the app capture them for you.
Hot Cues for Hot Tunes
Use hot cues to instantly access specific points in a track. Found in the Performance Panel, you can assign and jump to them impeccably in rhythm. Delete them with a simple tap.
Mastering the Mix
The Mixer section is another gem in the Performance Panel, giving you sway over track frequencies to perfect song blending. Swipe to adjust or double-tap to reset – it’s mixing simplified.
Effortless PAD FX
PAD FX, also in the Performance Panel, unleashes various effects with the hold of your finger. Customize your panel to include favorites like Flanger or Roll, enhancing the mix with beat-matched precision.
Creative Combo FX
Push boundaries with Combo FX, blending two effects by surfing your screen. Edit for your custom setup and mix texture and rhythmic effects to your heart’s content.
Sampling Made Easy
Activate the Sampler via the Performance Panel for live remixing with samples like drums and one-shots. Personalize your sample selection, or even add your unique sounds.
Tailor Your WeDJ Experience
Set within the WeDJ settings – the small gear icon – are numerous customization options. Auto Gain, Audio adjustments, beat quantization, crossfader curve sensitivity, and layout preferences all await your personal touch. Access tutorials for a full overview of how the app works or shop for upgrades to enhance functionality.
Parting Words on The WeDJ App
Embrace your passion for DJing with WeDJ, a platform that nurtures budding DJs and lets seasoned ones keep their edge sharp. Consider stepping up your game with the DDJ-200 or DDJ WeGO4 controllers, or delve into Pioneer’s standalone decks. WeDJ is accessible, offering boundless creative opportunities for anyone with a beat in their heart. Starting is free, with the option to enrich features as your talent grows.
Pros can leverage the app for planning sets or invigorating any casual gathering into a full-blown DJ session. It’s clear – Pioneer’s WeDJ app is a staple for DJ aficionados everywhere.
