DJ special effects: laser effects, HEX LEDs, black light, mirror balls, fog machines — these days, a DJ’s arsenal is just as much about the look as it is the sound. Certainly, manufacturers continue to develop new solutions from sound effects to lighting. Thanks to versatile DMX controllers and robust software, DJs can sync everything up to create a complete entertainment dynamic that enhances the dance floor and the room.
Some gear is designed to respond to sound, like the ADJ Vertigo XEX LED. It’s a classic effect and delivers 60 sound-activated reactions. The ADJ Micro Laser Effects unit, like the Micro #D II, produces more than 200 green and red laser beams that rotate and can either be controlled or set to Sound Active Mode. The good news is that this gear is priced around $200 or less.
[Many DJ special effects are priced in the $200 range, making it easy for DJs to build a special effects arsenal.]
On the pricier side of DJ special effects, ADJ’s Starship ($1199) features six arms with four LED cells per arm. Each arm tilts back and forth and produces powerful, razor-sharp beams of light. Each LED may be controlled independently with a variety of exciting built-in programs. User may also produce custom light show using DMX.
Of course, everyone loves a mirror ball and, although one can buy a kit with a traditional ball and lights, DJs can, for as little $219, go with a Contour Mirror Ball Fixture that creates a mirror ball effect with multi-colored beams. The beams crisscross back and forth at different speeds similar to a classic “fan style” effect. It’s great for projecting on dance floors, walls or ceilings.
One thing is evident from the kinds of products being developed and marketed is that mobility is high on the manufacturer’s priority list. DJs move around out of necessity. For example, the Chauvet Freedom Flex H4 IP features a removable battery for easy charging and battery swapping, making this 100% wireless, battery-operated par. Additionally, it has a built-in D-Fi transceiver even more flexible and powerful. The Chauvet Freedom Flex H4 IP X6 system also includes six Freedom Flex H4 IP fixtures. Plus, it comes with six quick-change battery packs in a rugged road case and a built-in charger. Freedom Flex H4 IP has hex-color (RGBAW + UV) LED technology for unlimited color mixing capabilities.
[Mobility is high on the manufacturer’s design priority list because DJs move around out of necessity.]
Rounding out the mix of DJ special effects, although it can easily be a longer list, are black lights, fog machines and moving lights. The ADJ Inno Pocket Spot Twins feature two mini moving heads on a mounting bar. Each moving head operates independently and features bright 12-Watt LED sources. Its compact size and lightweight makes it ideal for mobile entertainers, small club and bars, roller rinks, bowling centers or any mobile production. Featuring 7 colors plus white, 7 gobo plus spot and separate color wheels, the ADJ Inno Pocket Spot Twins will give pure lighting excitement with its fast-moving beams and color changes. These can also be sound activated.
The reality is that for a smaller budget from $200 to $1500, DJs can load up their shows and take it with them.
