It’s never too early to learn djing! In fact, many kids are getting into djing at a very young age, and it can be a great way for them to learn about music and mixing as well as be a lot of fun. Here, we will discuss the best kids dj sets and starter kits.
Things to Consider When Buying a DJ Set For Kids
When buying DJ gear for kids, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Below is a list of considerations to help you find the perfect DJ set for your child.
Choose an Entry-Level DJ Controller
When choosing a DJ set for your child, it is important to choose an entry-level DJ controller. This is because an entry-level DJ controller is designed for beginners, and it will be easier for your child to learn how to DJ with one.
An entry-level DJ controller is also likely to be less expensive than a more advanced one (more on pricing below).
I was a lot older when I began learning to DJ, 30 years old to be exact (I know, so old right?).
But when I started, I used a completely professional setup. When I look back on it, this was a very intimidating way to start learning and I often found it stressful figuring out what all the functions could do, pro-longing the learning phase more.
When it comes to kids learning, I believe less is more by keeping it simple and allowing kids to learn the very basics.
Additionally, picking entry-level gear over other DJ controllers will save you money.
You’ll need a Pair of DJ Headphones for Kids
When it comes to choosing a DJ set for your child, it is important to also choose a pair of kid-friendly DJ headphones.
DJ headphones for kids need to be comfortable, durable and have good sound quality. They also need to be adjustable so that they can fit your child’s head perfectly.
There are a lot of great kid-friendly DJ headphones on the market, so finding the perfect pair for your child should not be too difficult.
Where to set up DJ gear for children?
This is should be fairly obvious, but picking a place in the house to set up your kid’s DJ equipment is as equally important as buying the right gear.
Remember, if they’re going to be practicing regularly, be prepared to hear music blaring in the background regularly too.
The last place you want to position DJ equipment is next to your bedroom when you’re trying to get some sleep.
If you have a spare room, this would be ideal. But if not, I recommend using your kid’s room. Just make sure to add some sort of soundproofing.
Durability: Buy something robust
Younger kids are not known for being delicate and careful.
It’s important that you buy a DJ setup that is made from durable materials that can withstand a few bumps and bruises (or in some cases, drops).
This is especially important for kids who are just learning how to DJ. They will likely be dropping their headphones and controllers quite a bit, so you want something that can take the abuse.
Also, ask yourself if it’s truly worth investing in a kids DJ turntable? The risks of them scratching your delicate vinyl records or breaking the tonearms will likely be a cause for concern. This is why we are not going to recommend any kids DJ turntable in this guide.
Pricing
Don’t break the bank.
As a parent, you want to give your child the best of everything. But when it comes to djing, you don’t need to spend a fortune on gear.
In fact, we recommend that you avoid spending too much money on DJ gear for kids. The reason for this is because reasons previously mentioned above.
If things break, buying replacements or paying for repairs is going to frustrate you.
Consider a Music Subscription
When it comes to djing, one of the most important things is having a good music library.
If you want your child to be a great DJ, they need to have access to a lot of music. The best way to do this is by getting them a subscription to a music streaming service like Spotify, Apple Music, or TIDAL.
Avoid DJ pools for now as they don’t offer the family-friendly subscription plans you can often get with the likes of Spotify and other streaming services.
DJ Software Kids Will Love
We’ve already mentioned that djing is all about the music, but having some actual DJ software will help your child learn faster and make mixing fun.
The best DJ software for kids tends to be those geared towards younger users and has a more ‘fun’ interface than traditional DJ software like Serato or Traktor Pro.
You’ll also want to pick a program that you can connect with your music streaming service of choice.
For recommendations, keep reading.
Best Kids DJ Sets and Starter Kits
Now that we covered all of the key considerations, let’s take a deeper dive into what we recommend as the ultimate DJ setup for kids.
DJ Controllers for Kids: Our Top Picks
- Complete Algoriddim djay and Serato DJ System
- 2 DJ decks of control with touch-sensitive jog wheels
- Built-in audio interface
- Plug & play USB connectivity for Mac, PC and iOS
- DJ Lighting FX that syncs to your DJ mix
- Performance pads with 4 DJ pad FX: Effect, Cue, Loop, and Sampler
- Filter knobs and Pitch Sliders on each DJ deck
- Streaming capabilities
- Designed for the learning how to DJ
- Intuitive compact design for use
- DJUCED DJ software included
- Dual-deck layout touch-sensitive jog wheels
- Great for vinyl-style cueing, track browsing, and pitch-bend functions
- Intelligent Music Assistant (IMA) allows DJUCED to suggest suitable tracks to play and match the event energy levels
- Eight multicolored performance pads light up and indicate four control modes: rolls, FX, hot-cues, and sampler
- Tempo guide to show where to move the tempo fader
- Beat match guide to help align your beats perfectly
- Lightweight and compact with a pro-style layout it’ll help you learn to mix
- 16 performance pads
- In-built tutorials including effects, rhythm, tempo, mixing, looping & more
- Compatible with streaming sites including Beatport LINK, SoundCloud, Deezer and even Spotify
- Transition FX feature
- Compatible with djay Pro AI
- Split output
- Compatible with Rekordbox DJ
To summarize what you should expect with basic entry-level DJ hardware, here are some features they need to have:
- In-built DJ mixer
- Performance pads
- Beat FX
- Pitch faders
- In-built audio interface & sound card
- USB cable connectivity
1. Numark Party Mix
The Numark Party Mix is a great DJ controller for kids. It’s durable, has good sound quality, and comes with an in-built mixer, and audio interface.
All you need to do is plug it into your speakers and headphones or even an iPad and you’re good to go.
Your kids will be able to learn to loop, set cue points, and even get accustomed to the performance pads while also learning how to scratch using the jog wheels.
- Complete Algoriddim djay and Serato DJ System
- USB DJ Equipment for beginners
- 2 DJ decks of control with touch-sensitive jog wheels
- Built-in audio interface
- Plug & play USB connectivity for Mac, PC and iOS
- DJ Lighting FX that syncs to your DJ mix
- Sync, Play/Pause & Cue buttons
- Performance pads with 4 DJ pad FX: Effect, Cue, Loop, and Sampler
- Filter knobs and Pitch Sliders on each DJ deck
- Library controls for browsing / loading tracks
- Stream your DJ music through Serato DJ Lite (Included) or djay Pro AI from providers including SoundCloud, Beatport Link, Beatsource Link and TIDAL
- DJ Headphones output
- 1/8-inch main output to connect to DJ speakers;
- Integrated DJ mixer with 2-band EQ channel faders and crossfader
2. Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200
Another great two-deck DJ controller for kids is the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200. This is another robust DJ controller that comes with a built-in audio interface, performance pads, set cue points, and comes with a pair of in-built jog wheels like the Numark.
It’s also highly affordable, meaning you’ll be able to give your child the best DJ gear without breaking the bank.
- Designed for the learning how to DJ
- Intuitive compact design for use
- DJUCED DJ software included
- Dual-deck layout touch-sensitive jog wheels
- Great for vinyl-style cueing, track browsing, and pitch-bend functions
- Intelligent Music Assistant (IMA) allows DJUCED to suggest suitable tracks to play and match the event energy levels
- Eight multicolored performance pads light up and indicate four control modes: rolls, FX, hot-cues, and sampler
- Tempo guide to show where to move the tempo fader
- Beat match guide to help align your beats perfectly
3. Pioneer DJ DDJ-200
The Pioneer DJ DDJ-200 is one of the best DJ controllers for kids. It’s made specifically for kids and beginner DJs, has a bold interface that makes djing easy and fun, and even comes with an app to help them learn how to Dj.
One thing to also note is Pioneer is the industry-leading brand for professional DJs at the highest level and they’ve made a conscious effort to design their controllers that help aspiring DJs smoothly transition from beginner to more advanced DJ decks out there.
The DDJ-200 is mainly compatible with Rekordbox DJ users.
- Price: $179 | £139 | €159 (approx.)
- Channels: 2
- Pad FX: Yes
- Weight: 1.6kg
4. Roland DJ-202
Another great DJ controller that’s geared towards kids is the Roland DJ-202.
It comes with a built-in audio interface, and two drum pads to control sounds and DJ effects and is compatible with Serato DJ Lite.
This is a great DJ controller for kids as it will allow them to learn how to DJ with all the basic features they need without being overwhelming.
- Two-channel, four-deck controller for Serato DJ Lite
- Optimized for scratching
- Built-in drum kits from Roland's legendary pattern-909, pattern-808, pattern-707, and pattern-606
- Eight sounds in each TR kit: bass drum, snare drum, closed hat, open hat, Tom, rim, clap, and ride
- Onboard sequencer that controls Serato DJ’s sampler for on-the-fly beat creation
- Ultra portable
- Midi output for synchronizing external devices with tracks in Serato DJ
- USB connectivity
Kids DJ Headphones
1. Pioneer DJ HDJ CUE1
The Pioneer DJ HDJ CUE1 is a great set of entry-level DJ headphones for kids. They’re comfortable and have good sound quality with dynamic drivers that help you feel the bass in the mid and high-end frequency sounds.
While considered to be more of the premium pick out of the bunch in this list, the Pioneer HDJ CUE1 headphones are quite sturdy and durable. In other words, less likely to break if dropped!
The lightweight, folding design means you can take them anywhere and also store them away comfortably.
There is also a Bluetooth model available. But make sure you pick a compatible DJ controller for connectivity.
- Dynamic drivers enable you to feel the bass and hear mids and high-end sounds with crystal clarity, helping you to mix with pin-point precision
- All moving parts have passed our strict-in house durability tests, and extra-strong metal sliders in the headband bring added reliability
- With ear cups that turn a full 90 degrees and a flexible, cushioned headband, you can comfortably monitor your mix your way
- Personalize your look and express yourself by switching out the cable and earpads for one of 5 brightly colored replacements
- The lightweight, folding design means you can easily take your headphones wherever you go
2. Numark HF125
A more budget option for kids is the Numark HF125. These headphones are ultra-light with 7 different adjustable position settings which is useful if you plan to keep them for a few years as your kid gets a little older.
While they may feel quite flimsy, I still recommend these because if your kid breaks them, you won’t feel like a lot of money just went down the drain.
- Monitoring Essential - Ultra light DJ headphones with 7 different independently-adjustable position settings caters for any mixing preference
- Superior Comfort – Lightweight design fused with a padded headband and ear cushions keep you focussed on what’s important – your mix
- Superior Isolation – closed back design reduces ambient noise so you hear only what you need to
- Connect to Anything - 6-foot hard wired cord with a moulded 1/8” TRS connector, plus a 1/8” to ¼” TRS adapter included, connects to virtually any DJ mixer
- Hassle Free Setup - Single sided cord to minimise tangles and get you DJ-ing from the get-go
DJ Speakers for Kids
Hercules DJ MONITOR 32
If you’re looking for your kid’s first set of speakers, I suggest the Hercules DJ Monitor 32 on the basis that these are value for money compared to other more expensive options.
They are small enough for kids to be utilized in a bedroom DJ setup, while it also offers a very low, warm bass sound that’s not going to anger your neighbors or disturb your downtime in the living room.
- 3-Inch woofer
- Shifted tweeter for clearer rendering and a more noticeable stereo effect in the space
- Dual bass Vent
- Cabinet made from 6 mm (0. 24”) MDF
- 15 Watts RMS power per satellite speaker
For a top 10 list of professional-grade speakers for DJs, check out this guide.
Alternatively, if you have a pair of Bluetooth speakers already lying around in the house, these will also be good to use (as long as the DJ controller you pick has Bluetooth connectivity).
DJ Software for Kids
dj Pro AI
One of Algoriddim’s turnkey DJ application is the dj Pro AI. Used for iOS, Mac, Android and Windows devices, this is a fun and very intuitive app that you can use to learn to DJ.
With its new features like the Neural Mix and Slicer, your child will have a lot of fun getting creative with their mixing.
I recommend using this on an iPad which you can plug into the Numark Party Mix. This will offer you the most basic, kid’s dj setup that is affordable.
The dj Pro AI requires a premium subscription which you can cancel anytime which is great for when your kid is ready to make the step up either Rekordbox, Traktor or Serato Lite.
Music Subscription Services
Investing in a music subscription will save you money buying tracks individually as well as prevent your child from downloading music illegally.
With that said, here’s what I recommend.
TIDAL
TIDAL is a great platform that integrates with most software and is easy to set up.
It comes with access to over 80 million music tracks across multiple genres so it should give your kid what they need to learn djing.
For more information on the best websites or streaming services to build your DJ music library, I’ve got just the perfect guide here.
Other DJ Equipment for Kids?
While having a complete DJ controller set highlighted above will be a good start, some extra items will be worth considering in addition.
Invest in Soundproofing
If you want to avoid any complaints from your neighbors about the noise, I recommend soundproofing your kid’s DJ setup. This will help to contain the noise and not let it seep out into the rest of the house or block.
You can purchase some foam panels which are relatively cheap and easy to install. Just make sure you measure the walls
If you’re not sure which panels to get, I’ve already put together a list below.
Best Soundproof Acoustic Panels
- Premium Quality
- Perfect for home DJ setups
- Reduces standing waves and flutter echoes in small/medium sized rooms
- NRC of 0.65
- Made in the USA
- 12 Pack covers 12 square feet
- Each tile is 1 square foot of 2 inch thick premium acoustic wedge foam.
- Eco-friendly
- Noise Absorbing
- Easy to Install
- Great for recording studios, vocal booths, control rooms, also ideal for home theaters, professional movie theaters, concert halls and more.
Party lights
There will come a time when your child may have to play at a kid’s party. While not essential, buying a set of party lights for the occasion will be a fun way to create an atmosphere.
Best DJ Sets for Kids: Frequently Asked Questions
Can kids learn to DJ?
Yes, kids can learn to DJ and it’s a great way to introduce them to music and technology. There is a variety of DJ equipment for kids available, including headphones, speakers, software, and even music subscription services.
Studies have shown that
Are there kid DJs?
Yes, there are kid DJs and they are becoming more and more popular. In fact, djing is a great way for kids to get involved in music and technology.
A great example is DJ Archie, having won the title for the youngest DJ at the age of 4 years old!
Final Thoughts on DJ Sets for Kids
So that’s it!
In this guide, we’ve looked at what is needed to set up a DJ system for kids to get all the basics to learn djing.
We have also looked at some of the best DJ equipment that is available for children and what they can offer in terms of learning and fun.
If a child wants to learn how to DJ, all of the options mentioned above are great to start with. It’s all down to your personal preference, how durable you need them to be and what your budget is.
But regardless of what you choose, your kids will have a great time practicing!
