EDM Performance, What Gear Do I Need To Have or Learn?

I don’t have practical experience but here is what I think you would need:

If you plan to play a static, pre-recorded show, all you need is a playback device like your laptop and a PA system. If you want to do some mixing you’ll probably want DJ software and a controller or a DJ mixer. I don’t know enough to tell you about things like MIDI pads or Ableton but if that’s the route you’re going to need more hardware/software.

You’ll also need to cover your bases with the basics like a table or a booth, extension cables, power strips, gaffer’s tape, and a tablecloth or tableskirt.

You could focus purely on the music but I think it is a mistake because frankly most people don’t care about just the music. Lighting effects aren’t really all the expensive and they make a huge impact. ADJ just came out with Mini-Dekkers for about $100 which I think is a great deal. They have DMX so you can link them together, they strobe and they throw off RGBW light beams. Add in a small fogger and a light stand and you have a light show for about $300.

If you want to promote yourself you’ll also probably want signage, flyers to post up around the venue, and business cards. You should set up a webpage or at least a Facebook page so you can get feedback or keep in contact with show goers for future events. Personally I also think your appearance plays into this as well, your clothes, shoes and props are all part of theatrics that is part of putting on a show.

Actually it’s not that simple linking DMX to sound. Most fixtures have a sound mode that operates on a built-in microphone. But DMX software doesn’t necessary have a sound-2-light option. If that is what you really want, you will have to look into that carefully.

@Scott: Nice reply. One thing I disagree with, is the cheap fogger. Fog is disappearing rapidly and for a reason. Both venue owners and customers alike are starting to object. The better alternative is a hazer, but those – unfortunately – don’t come cheap. They do however give a haze that is less/not intrusive, doesn’t smell, doesn’t worry owners of smoke detectors and that has much, much longer “hang time”. And one bottle of of Haze fluid can last for as many as 10-12 full night gigs.

Imho: use smoke as an FX (a few times a night maximum) and haze as the basis to make your lightbeams visible.