The Mobile DJ Backpack is one of the most overlooked needs that any DJ working in the field will need. You will need miscellaneous tools, tape, fasteners, and cables to complete your Mobile DJ Backpack. It’s better to have more than what you need than to find out you need something unavailable. It would be best to have a spare for everything you use regularly.
Mobile DJ Cables
Here is a list of cables you might want to consider adding to your backpack. You will more than not need all of these cables but make sure you have a duplicate of all the cables you use with your system.
RCA: RCA cables are famous for connecting many audio and video equipment types. They’re inexpensive, widely available, and easy to use. However, they are recommended for connections longer than six feet because of signal loss and interference.
XLR: XLR cables are audio cables typically used for professional sound applications that require a balanced line. Unlike the RCA, as mentioned earlier Cables, these are good for long runs with almost no interference and very little signal loss.
TRS 1/4 inch and 1/8 inch: TRS stands for “Tip-Ring-Sleeve.” These cables look like a standard 1/4″ or 1/8″ plug but are divided into three sections. These are most likely to be for headphones or studio monitors.
Speakon: The Speakon (stylized speakON) is a trademarked name for an electrical connector, initially manufactured by Neutrik, primarily used in professional audio. These have become the industry standard for connections; they also tend to be more expensive.
Optical Cable P/DIF, ADAT: An optical cable is used with professional audio gear to transfer a digital audio signal from one device to another at the speed of light. Digital optical cables use fiber-optic technology to transmit an unambiguous signal for home and professional recording and performance applications.
USB: The term USB stands for “Universal Serial Bus.” USB cable assemblies are some of the most popular cable types available, used chiefly to interface with computers to peripheral devices like cameras, video cameras, printers, scanners, etc.
Firewire: Firewire or IEEE-1394 is a communication technology developed by Apple® in the early 1990s, at about the same time as USB. The original IEEE-1394 standard is FireWire, IEEE-1394a, DV, or i.Link® (Sony®’s implementation of the norm).
Thunderbolt: Apple’s new Thunderbolt cable features a braided design that coils without tangling, making it more durable.
MIDI: Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) cables connect electronic musical instruments such as keyboards to computers. You are not likely to run into this type of cable at the venues you are working. However, be aware that a client needs to connect a keyboard to your system; this is the type of cable they are most likely to use.
Power: Standard power cables in the USA are 120 Volt 15amp or 20amp rated. Add a couple of different lengths to your DJ Mobile Backback. Along with a couple of fused power strips.
Ethernet: Today, this is the cable that you use to connect your device to the internet. If the WIFI is not working, you should have a least one fifty-foot Ethernet cable in your bag of tricks.
Adapter Cables: An adapter is a device that connects a specific type of hardware to work with another device that would otherwise be incompatible.
Signal Conversion Devices: A digital-to-analog converter is a system that converts a digital signal into an analog signal.
Mobile DJ Tools
The tendency is to take the tools you use at home and add them to your Mobile DJ Tool Kit. Please don’t do it. Likewise, do not take tools from your Mobile DJ tool kit to work on projects around your house. Again, the reason should be apparent. But, of course, you will, and I have done just that and have forgotten to put them back after I had used them, only to discover that at the last minute.
What I recommend you carry as a part of your Mobile DJ backpack:
Flashlights. Yes, that is plural; a couple of small flashlights plus a head strap on one will save you much grief.
You will need a small set of screwdrivers, both flat and Phillips.
Wire cutters.
Needle nose pliers.
A soldering gun with solder.
Extra batteries. Lights, remotes, microphones, and any other equipment requires a battery.
Shrink Tubing with a heat source.
A USB to record your show. Many times your guest will request a copy of the songs that are played at an event or you may want to review how a particular playlist worked.
Mobile DJ Fasteners
You are to need several different types of electrical tapes in your Mobile Dj Backpack. Plus velcro, cable ties, and various colors of electrical tape.
The use will use these items are for cable management, marking locations on the floor, securing items to your Rigs and Trusses, and marking mics for your mix.
Mobile DJ Backpack
Hard Shell vs. soft backpack. What you choose is entirely up to you. Think about your investment in your tools, Laptop, and other gear. The last thing I want is to get a GIG and find out something has been damaged. On the other hand, you need a reasonably large Backpack to accommodate all of the things you have to carry, so plan accordingly. Allow room for your laptop, hard drive, or USB with music, your business cards, and price sheet.
Conclusion
Knowing your cables is an essential skill every DJ needs. We hope this article has helped you understand audio cables. This essential skill is necessary because this is one of the least understood yet most important things any self-respecting DJ should understand.
Understanding the difference between these different audio cable systems can help you make a better-informed decision when choosing your gear and save you from being bewildered by cables when your shiny new DJ gear arrives in the post.
Putting together a well-developed Mobile DJ Backpack will save loads of time. Reduce your set-up time, and ensure you have what you need when you need it.