would it make sense to come way early, and if possible, get your cables into the mixer while you won’t be in anyone’s way?
Some club requires you to do a “sound check” prior to your night gig, usually during the afternoon, so take this opportunities to check out the battlefield, if they don’t requires the “sound check”, asked them anyway to do the “sound check”, it will make you more professional that way
Another query, do DJ’s often work together to help this transition work out more seamlessly,
Unfortunately, during my past experiences gigs, most of the DJ’s before me just stand and look at you, waiting for you to mess up, just make sure you engaged first in the very friendly and polite conversation, asked them the question instead, like “hey man, that’s wicked tune!!”, or “hey man, would you mind if you play one more song?” and such. The only time if anyone helps you out at all is the sound dude, so make sure you be friendly with them too
Also, in most venues, is there space to put your own gear, or space for a small folding table you can bring for your gear
Sometimes they do, sometimes they dont, especially if you have the huge SSX controller, so it might be a good idea to invest in one of those laptop/controller stand, and like you said its a good idea also to “scouting” the venues prior to your gigs
