Which DJ Add-Ons are Worth It?

Every mobile DJ has a standard set of equipment that they bring to every gig. This usually includes at least 2 speakers, a music source, and some dance floor lighting. The specifics vary depending on the DJ and there are some upgrades that your DJ may offer. Usually the upgrades come at an additional cost. 

This blog post can help you decide which add-ons are worth the extra money, and which ones you can pass on. Of course, each event is unique and you decide what is most important to you.

Wireless Mics can save a lot of time and effort

Worth it: Wireless Microphone

Some DJs offer a wireless microphone as part of their standard equipment, but if they don’t, it might be a good idea to request one even if it comes at an extra charge.

Wireless microphones are a must if you are at an outdoor or unusually shaped venue, or if your DJ will be set up really far away from the head table. Standard wired microphones are very reliable, but there is a risk they could become disconnected during the event. This risk is higher when the cable for the microphone has to go a long distance to reach the head table or front of the room.

This is especially true for outdoor venues. Grass is particularly difficult since it’s very hard to secure the cable to ensure there will be no tripping and disconnecting. Of course, your DJ will do their best to ensure that everything is out of the way, but a wireless microphone can help you have some peace of mind. 

Also, if your DJ is providing sound for your wedding ceremony, wireless microphones are much less distracting in your wedding pictures. 

Finally, wireless microphones are more simple to set up. This gives your DJ more time to prepare for your event, instead of spending that time wrangling cables. 

It really isn’t all about the bass

NOT worth it: Subwoofers

Extra bass speakers, or Subwoofers, are another item that many DJs offer as an upgrade for an additional charge.

Whether or not you enjoy a lot of bass in your music is a matter of personal taste. Some clients particularly enjoy the sound of booming bass resonating around the room. However, all modern professional speakers provide more than enough bass for the average client, and it’s simple to increase the bass level by adjusting the levels on the speaker. 

Bass also won’t make a difference during speeches or interactive games. If you are planning on doing a lot of toasts or games, extra bass speakers won’t change the sound and the extra investment might go to waste.

Unless you are a really hardcore fan of bass (and bear in mind that your guests might not be), I recommend that you forego the extra charge for a subwoofer and save some money on this item.

Step into the light

DEPENDS: Lighting and Fog Machines

Extra lighting and fog machines can definitely add a lot of fun ambience to your dance, but it’s not always worth it.

I recommend upgrading your lighting and fog machines if the dance portion of your event is going to be particularly long, or if there will be a lot of children attending. Children tend to especially appreciate extra special effects. 

Extra lighting and fog machines can also be fun to spice up your grand entrance, if that is your style.

If the dance portion of your event will be less than 3 hours, I recommend against investing in extra lighting. Some DJs charge hundreds of dollars more for extra lighting and ambience and it’s simply not worth the investment if your dance is going to be short.

Every party is different

In Conclusion

I know that there is a TON of information out there about how to make the most of your budget, and it can often get confusing.

While it can be hard to know what is right for you, most professionals offer a free consultation to help guide you in the right direction. Contact me at my email for free personalized input and suggestions to make the most of your special event. Happy planning!