Almost every DJ company has one. Yes that’s right the famous (or in-famous) “Questions To Ask A DJ”. Like anything else, why does one DJ stand out more than another? They don’t! Until now. The “Questions To Ask A DJ” have been around for almost 20 years. Well this is the 21st century now and it’s time for an update. So here is some insight to the current questions, what they mean and what you should really be asking:
- Are You Insured?
- Almost everyone will say yes. If they have an office look for the certificate on their wall. If you don’t see it or if they don’t have an office, ask them to show you a copy.
- How Long Have You Been In Business?
- There is really no way to prove how long a DJ has been in business unless they are registered with the state as a DBA or LLC. However many DJ companies are not registered with the state. A registered DBA or LLC will have articles of organization to show proof of legitimacy. Don’t let this deter you from hiring a company because they may have only been in business for a few years. They may in fact be better than some from 20 years ago. Remember times have changed, but has the DJ?
- How Long Have You Been A DJ?
- This can be answered the same as #2. Simply put, don’t just ask for the number of years. Ask specific questions on how the DJ runs an event or gets people involved. Then listen to some of the things the DJ tells you about their experience. This will tell you if they are lying about their experience or not, and if they are up to date on trends and technology.
- Do You Have Back-up Equipment?
- Most will say yes. 8 out of 10 will say they bring a full backup system in their vehicle. Even if they do actually bring backup, it’s not doing you any good sitting in their vehicle if they need to break-down and set-up again. You’re party could be over by the time they are ready.
- Ask what kind of backup are they using? A DJ should be able to perform an event with a back up system exactly how they perform with their primary system. If they are a computer DJ ask what they bring for backup. Ideally they should bring an extra sound card, computer and hard drives in addition to the standard backup mixer, mics, and speaker.
- The best backup system would be integrated into the DJs primary system virtually eliminating down time. If that is not possible, they should at least have the backup system in the room with them and setup or easily setup so they can transfer over with minimal downtime. The less time spent switching to a back up the greater the chances your event continuing successfully.
- Do You Have An Emergency Backup Plan?
- The most common answer is yes. Don’t settle for a simple yes. Ask “What is your emergency backup plan?”. Ask them to explain the process of how they go about getting you a replacement.
- Do you have professional gear?
- This is a matter of DJ opinion. But like anything else there is entry level equipment and industry professional grade equipment. If you are overly concerned about this, ask for details and cross reference the mfg and model numbers on the internet.
- Do You Have Wireless Mics?
- This is the 21st century. Every DJ should be using wireless mics. Ask if the DJ has one or two microphones. Two is preferable for two reasons: 1.) They have a backup mic 2.) They have a mic for readings during the ceremony, or ready to hand off for the toasts.
- Also If you are overly concerned ask if they are using VHF or UHF and the brand. The top manufacturers are EV, Sennheiser, Sure and Audiotechnica and the best band is UHF. This will ensure that you will have minimal to no interference when using the microphones during your ceremony or during the toasts.
- Are You Digital or Cd?
- The question you should be asking is “Are you computerized or cd?”. Cd technically is digital.
- If they say computerized (or mp3’s), you need to ask another question. “What rate quality?” If they can’t answer that question, move on to another DJ. They probably either download their music or don’t know how to rip music to a high quality.
- The lowest quality bit rate for MP3’s should be 256kbps, with the highest being 320kbps. Other formats are wav or flac (also known as lossless). These formats are going to produce the best sound quality.
- Also if they are computerized you may want to ask them what software they use. If they are using Itunes, Windows Media Player, Winamp or even an IPOD, again you may want to look at another DJ company. A professional computerized DJ company will be using professional licensed DJ software.
- One benefit of computerized over Cd is that contrary to popular belief, Cd’s do not last forever. They do degrade over time (and that’s not taking scratches into account).
- Where Do You Get Your Music From?
- This question doesn’t get asked enough especially in the digital age of downloads. It is becoming increasingly easier for a DJ to illegally download or copy music. This can lead to potential problems at your event if the quality or file integrity is not good.
- A professional will belong to a record pool or subscription service such as Promo Only, ERG, TM Jones or Top Hits. Legal downloads can be made from Amazon, Walmart, Itunes and more.
- Cd’s that are copied or are old can have the same problems as songs downloaded from LimeWire or other illegal sources.
- Will I Know Who My DJ Is?
- Many times a DJ company will not tell you who the DJ is until several weeks before the event, if at all. Some will tell you at the time of the consultation, but you won’t meet the DJ until the final planning or event until the wedding day.
- Request to meet your DJ the day of your initial consultation. If that is not possible, ask for a follow-up meeting when that DJ is available.
- Also be sure that the name of your DJ is listed on your Contract/Agreement. Many companies are known to “bait and switch”.
I hope these questions will provide you with a greater understanding of any DJ company that you interview. It should give you an indication of whether they are a professional or not, and how they will handle your event. You might be surprised at the responses you get.
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