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Beginner guide

Practising CDJs Without Owning Them

7 Jun 2026·3 min read·by SELECTA crew

For aspiring DJs without 3000 euros for hardware. How to actually get hands-on time.

Practising CDJs Without Owning Them

CDJ-3000s cost roughly 2500 euros each. A working pair plus a mixer puts you over 6000. Most aspiring DJs cannot justify that. Here are the workarounds.

Rekordbox laptop mode

The Pioneer Rekordbox software runs in performance mode on a laptop and approximates the CDJ workflow. Free for basic use. Not the same as physical decks but excellent for learning the workflow before you touch hardware.

Music shop rentals

Most Tallinn and Riga DJ shops rent a CDJ pair plus mixer for 30 to 50 euros for a full Sunday. Book one, bring your USB, spend six hours actually mixing.

Club night dead hours

Some venues let aspiring DJs practice during off-hours, often in exchange for a small fee or just buying drinks. Ask the bookings person, not the manager. Worst case they say no.

The friend-with-decks arrangement

There is always a friend-of-a-friend with a setup at home. Be a polite guest. Buy them dinner. Practice for two hours, leave the gear cleaner than you found it.

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