DJ Terminology: A Glossary of Essential DJ Terms

FX (Effects)

What It Is: Tools like reverb, delay, flanger, and more to add flair to your tracks.
Example: Use a high-pass filter effect to build excitement before a big drop.
Hot Tip: Don’t overdo it! A sprinkle of FX is compelling; a flood can overwhelm.

Vinyl Mode

What It Is: A setting on digital controllers that mimics traditional vinyl control. It allows you to scratch and manipulate tracks as if you’re spinning vinyl.
Why You Need It: Whether digital or vinyl, this mode broadens your DJing skills and adds to your creativity.

Backspin

What It Is: A classic DJ transition where the record or digital track is spun backward quickly to add dramatic flair.
Example: Think hype-building effect during live sets that thrills the crowd.
Master It: Use sparingly—it’s high impact but can be jarring if overused.