Simple Karaoke Setup for Mobile DJs - Add Another Component to your Services!

Karaoke used to be out of reach for me -- I didn't have a full karaoke system with multiple TV screens, a huge collection of MP3+G or WMA+G song files to cover everyone's song choices, cheap but reliable wireless mics, etc. I solved this problem with my super simple karaoke setup!
Using a few things from KZbin and an iPad, I can drop a little karaoke into any event, party, or wedding. Here's the gear I show in the video:
VocoPro tablet holder/mic holder tripod: www.amazon.com/VocoPro-MS-UT-...
Alvoxcon wireless mics:
www.amazon.com/Microphone-Alv...
And the core of it all, the awesome Karafun karaoke iOS app! This is a subscription based app which provides you a great, powerful interface to run karaoke at your event plus all the songs you will need. You can even download tracks onto your device so you can run karaoke without an internet connection! www.karafun.com/
Content provided by Kevin Summers, owner and DJ at Smilestones DJ Services (www.smilestonesdj.com).

[@lgovantes1]

Good quick party setup, especially for outdoors with powered everything. I use Virtual DJ that has built-in Karaoke. This allows you to switch keys, change tempo, add effects, announce the singer, and play background music between Karaoke songs. You could be doing a regular DJ party, and when someone wants to sing, you just load a Karaoke video, either from your library, or from a subscription source. I love this setup because you can enhance singer's voice with reverb, chorus, delay, etc.

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Yes, thanks !! Agreed

[@DC-vj9op]

Brilliant! I've been looking for a solution like this for ages. Thanks😁

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Awesome, glad to be a small help!!

[@Gener77]

Great video. Thanks for posting. I'm not a KDJ either but I do get requests for karaoke once in awhile. As you stated this is a quick easy add on.

[@sticksentertainment]

When I know I'm going to be hosting karaoke, my setup is legit. I run my DDJ-1000 outputs to two input channels of a Yamaha MG16XU mixer. I have four vocopro (inexpensive and awesome) wireless microphones for the singers. Running my DDJ-1000 into the external mixer allows me to switch between Rekordbox and my karaoke software as needed. The karaoke software offers a singer's queue and maintains my singer rotation. So, long story short, karaoke happens through my normal DJ setup which is typically two QSC K8.2 (stage monitors), two QSC K12.2, two QSC KS118 subs. Your setup is great for something makeshift, but the singers I deal with are looking for that concert sound even when they have terrible voices. LOL

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Stick, that’s awesome- sounds totally legit and bet it sounds awesome! You’re right this is not a pro solution by any means. I explain that to the few folks who have used it at events - if they’re looking for a pro Karaoke setup I’m probably not the best fit DJ :) Thanks man!

[@sticksentertainment]

@@SmilestonesDJAdventures I actually started as a KJ in the bars and was kinda pushed into DJing. I still KJ on the weekends that I don’t have some other event such as a wedding/private party. They always want karaoke though. That’s probably my biggest upseller.

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Def sounds like that’s a great competitive edge you have to offer your customers! Cool!

[@tyronbooker605]

What software do you use, I have the DDj-1000SRT

[@carlos_mann]

Whats a good price to charge for a karaoke service & are you using the same kj app.

[@DJKaraoke5521]

I love your little set up. I’ve been singing since 1994 karaoke I also am a DJ and KJ. I do karaoke and dizzy on the side myself and I’m running soap opera called compuhost. I need when I have it installed on my laptop but I’m also getting into the art form of doing DJ using the DDJ - 400. And I’m using virtual DJ I love your set up it’s pretty awesome.

[@cleantoronto3658]

thanks very much. i use Karafun as well but with a Dell laptop + HDMI out to a TV or projector. that way I can manage the song queue as needed. agreed on wireless mics. I grabbed some too , with mixer, from Amazon . so much nicer than worrying about wires.

[@jonisnyder3538]

Ty that is really great! I like that set up. Such an easy thing to take with you to parties and people's houses. Love it!!

[@shawnroberts6384]

As always Kevin I appreciate your upbeat excitement and your great solutions and the even the little details.

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Ah thanks Shawn I appreciate that!! :)

[@brandons8672]

I love this!! Thank you and love the excitement!!

[@JoJoTheOtter]

Extremely helpful video. Thank you so much!

[@WILEY67]

Wow, I knew about karafunplayer but you solved my karaoke issue. Now I can add this to my set up. Thank you, DJ S1 - Always Mobile Productions.

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Cool man!

[@deejayfreddy9017]

Nice and easy set up, thank you for this video.

[@mrslynoel7803]

The best simple solution I’ve seen. Thank you so much.

[@charlesfuller1213]

Dude you have the best ideas, glad I found your channel

[@swain99]

Hi Kevin , thank you so much for posting this very informative video I have been thinking along this line myself but didn’t know how to go about it, again thank you so much 👏👏👏👏 🎸🎸🎸🎸😎🎸🎸🎸🎸

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

You’re very welcome! I’ve used this solution about 10 times for various events, and used it for friends parties too - super easy and fun!

[@motionmuse5684]

Awesome!! Thanks 😊👍

[@paulagibilisco992]

So helpful for nursing home/ care facility entertaining. I usually just sing for them, but this would give them the opportunity to do sing-a-long! Thanks!

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Awesome idea!!

[@musicman1685]

Thank you Sir! Nice 👍🏽

[@DJFARIS239]

Awesome very helpful information thank so much!!

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Thanks Faris

[@edcruz7940]

Nice set up Kevin thank you for this video.

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Youre welcome !!

[@miked3278]

This is a super helpful video! I've got a corporate event coming up and they asked to add on karaoke "in case anyone might want to do it" so for a 1 off I think this will be fine. However for anyone who sees this post and does a more consistent and formal karaoke setup id like to connect And ask some questions about how you do it!

[@AhkeemThaDJ]

You just solved my problem.Great video

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Ah so happy to hear that!!

[@juricoaboritaino6680]

very informative. thank you.

[@gregorytracy3512]

LOL, 1st two songs I put into Karafun were not available, so it might be a bit much to say "all the songs you will ever need". Maybe it's just me but I often find that I choose songs at karaoke venues that many do not have. That being said, Karafun is decent over all and I have sung at plenty of places that use it. I typically cringe a little bit when I find that is all they have though and honestly I avoid those KJ's if I know that's what they use. Sorry! I must agree it is a very cost effective option and will get you by in a pinch!

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Totally agree! Not for a KDJ but just fine for dripping in some light karaoke into your services. I just did a karaoke event at a college campus this week and Karafun had all but one of the tracks requested. As you can tell my whole little setup here isn’t a professional grade KDJ setup :)

[@LPTLife]

WOW! Thank you!

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

:)

[@mdpeake1]

Well done, great presentation.

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Thanks!

[@jeffthenative7381]

Thank you!!!!

[@georgethedj4946]

Nice set up. I have used this type of setup for small work and family functions for a while. I use with an Audio Commander Sport or my Eon One Pro. I use a simple music stand for the iPad but I really like your stand and especially the Microphone holders. For family, at no additional expense, I have found that youtube karaoke works great if you don’t mind the ads. Also, for easier/ no cable management, I use Bluetooth to connect to the speaker and then place it further away. Sounds great but there is a slight delay in the words scrolling. Most folks don’t see it and sing perfectly in sync with the audio. Thanks for the video.

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Hey thanks George! Totally agree with your point about the Bluetooth and using KZbin - those are good ideas to help bring down cost and make things a little more flexible

[@JoJoTheOtter]

Careful with using KZbin karaoke. I have a KJ friend who had to go to court over that. Certainly not easy for them to catch you, but somehow he got caught and it cost him.

[@kj_jones68]

You really need a dedicated mixer for vocal effects, this is great for non serious party events at home but its lacking in vocals, my customers are pretty serious singers and are used to quality vocal effects, i use two maui 5 columns, heath & allen mixer and a small laptop with 2tb storage that holds my mp3, karaoke and music video, i don't like subscription based stuff. My gear is pretty minimal and fits easily into the back of my car.

[@DamienCross66]

Great little setup. How about adding a dbx Go Rack with a Maui 5 Go? Your setup would be great for little pubs, bars, or house parties where space is limited.

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Hey thanks! Yes I like it!! A good idea - I like the Maui!

[@cristhianvasquez8724]

Great!!! Tks👍

[@michaelbray8199]

Where did you get the iPad/Mic stand? Love how it holds the mics

[@EnormeSounds]

Hi, thanks for the video. Are you still using Karafun/Karaoke? I was told singers can preselect their songs from their cell phone using the SQR code. How would they know it is their turn to sing?

[@Mrsnexochy]

Do I need to buy a mixer or receiver? I have a fancy speaker system for home use, I wonder how to use it if it is possible to actually use it with wireless mics.

[@djcalvin681]

Very nice

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Thanks Mark!

[@kristi398]

Nice!!! Tfs! How would you add a projector to show the video of the songs that are played?

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Hey - you’re welcome! If you wanted to project lyrics from Karafun onto a screen or something, that’s fairly easy - just use an HDMI dongle connected to the iPad, then connect the HDMI to your projector. To play actual music videos on a projector along with the songs - that I’m not sure of! A very low tech solution would be to just stream a video otherwise lyrics off of KZbin - if you can find what you want to play. I’d recommend to use a paid KZbin subscription to avoid ads, and then also you could add the videos you want to a playlist to have them in one spot. Just a thought!

[@DJServe1]

This is dope

[@joeydego2]

Can I log in to karafun on 2 devices at once? One to manage the queue and the other for the patron to read off of?

[@ignatiussilveira4257]

Great 👍

[@wkhentertainment-vd1qc]

Way to awesome! Great info. Are you still using this or did you figure something else out?

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Using this still from time to time!! :)

[@jamesridgway8498]

Drunk singers will knock over the iPad

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Oh yes, you have to watch for those ;)

[@bevsutor1936]

Is tbat monster speaker really good. Trying to get set up at home for parties. I'm that that electronically smart but following what you have written down. Thanks

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Hey Bev! Yeah I like it a lot for small gatherings, or outdoors where power isn’t available (beach/camping) and my son grabs it sometimes to blast out jams in his room 😜

[@carlos_mann]

Would you mind sharing how to charge for a service like this? I'll be using a Pro DJ controller Filler music coming my DJ collection One of my external mixers, Basic mic A Galaxy Tab S7 128 gb running the app And maybe a monitor, or 24 - 32" basic TV to bring along to the gigs for the singers to reading lyrics from. And some speakers for the master out. And of course all the necessary connections

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Hey Carlos! I have done a few karaoke only events - for example here kzbin.info/www/bejne/h4OvnHyDf6hpd9E - and charged my party rate of $200 / hour. I’m in the Midwest USA so that is a average or slightly above average price for a typical party Here is how i figure out how to price events BTW- kzbin.info/www/bejne/oZLHc4Cgrd6lfcU Hope that helps!

[@thesub-station4552]

I like the set up. I’d like to set something up like that… But I want to find a way to work on the iPad and cast the video to a 2nd monitor. What ya think? How can that be done.

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Hey! I have two thoughts on how to use my setup here with a TV. First idea - the iPad could be screen mirrored to an AppleTV connected to the TV (probably would require a WiFi router to connect the two devices, or at least you would need to connect both the AppleTV and the iPad to the same WiFi network at the location. Second idea - use a lightning to hdmi breakout port, which could be attached to a TV.

[@miketobin5069]

Loved your video. What is the exact model of the Monster speaker? Many thanks

[@kevinsummers]

That was the rockin roller 4, there are now some updated models

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

thanks! Monster rockin roller 4 rr4

[@viktorastrom539]

What ipad is that? Thanks for the video, I will be getting into karaoke as well!

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

It’s just an iPad Pro - 2018 version I think

[@Mrsnexochy]

Also, does this speaker sound really loud? I need mobile speaker but really loud.

[@HeyYoXo]

I'm curious to know if that EON has enough power to run professional karaoke in a small to medium sized pub where seating and acoustics may be different at each venue?. The EON advertisements say the sound is the same no matter where people are sitting which sounds a little far fetched to me personally.

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Hey Russ. I’ve used my Eon for karaoke at house parties, for events in small rooms for ~20-30 people, for sound reinforcement in an odd shaped venue in addition to my mains, for a backup solution when I’ve lost a main speaker, and for full wedding ceremonies with 200+ people. It’s a great sounding and versatile speaker. But hard to say if it will be perfect for your needs.

[@marisaheckler9684]

What do you call that mic holder? I can’t find it on Amazon

[@jvonemolap0921]

how can you add some fx on vocals like echo and reverb? vocals will be flat with that set up?

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Yes I believe the app lets you do that! otherwise you could apply mixer effects to the mic channel

[@bleserms]

Does the app on the iPad download the full catalog offline, or do you need data/WiFi to stream the karaoke track?

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Yes you can download for offline play! They actually do it really slick - allowing you to download different “sets” depending on how much space you have on your device. Like for example, Top 100 Karaoke songs or Top 200 songs.

[@plalelal]

@@SmilestonesDJAdventures But you have to get online an login to use them if your subscription is paid up,

[@mtzionlion]

Thanks

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Ur Welcome!

[@hanf71]

Hi there, thanks so much for your videos. They are the best !!! I really need help with trying to set up as a karaoke host. Only thing is I have quite a few questions regarding my equipment etc! More than happy to pay for your time?? Hope to hear from you Best wishes Sean

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Thanks man! My advice is just take it literally step by step - try to get the most simple component working first - maybe this is your karaoke app or software. Then try to get the next step - maybe this is your mixer or speaker. Then work on the mic system. This helps you tip toe into it! Hope that helps

[@hanf71]

@@SmilestonesDJAdventures thanks so much for your reply. Would you mind me running my equipment by you please?

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

You can write me at mobiledjremastered (at) gmail and I’ll try to help!

[@hanf71]

@@SmilestonesDJAdventures Thank you I'll be in touch soon. I really appreciate

[@nikosdellaportas7007]

1.May i ask how much do you charge for that setup?2.Do you use the simple subscription or the pro at Karafun?

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Hi, I dont charge for it - just drop it in for social situations, or if a friend or client or couple would like just a couple low key karaoke songs

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

I use the pro :)

[@roshanbeni3601]

❤❤❤

[@plalelal]

Karafun karaoke sound tracks sound is not that good. Are there any better alternatives?

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

They actually are GREAT and serve the need for non professional, fun karaoke. If you need something more robust, I think you will have to purchase tracks or find another subscription service

[@kpmaxx68]

Do you have a link or full name of the twin microphone clamp as I would love to use it on my system

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Here you go! VocoPro MS-UT Universal Tablet Tripod Stand with Dual Mic Holder www.amazon.com/VocoPro-MS-UT-Tripod-Stand/dp/B01DT81JAO/ref=mp_s_a_1_12?crid=1AFXQ2Z5JZP5Y&keywords=tripod+with+dual+mic+holder&qid=1646848466&sprefix=tripod+with+dual+mic+hokder%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-12#

[@bboymac84]

I would get a Jackery 500 and power the ipad, Speaker and mic receiver.

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Yep great idea!

[@LPTLife]

How do you add the names to the song on Kara? ( from the app) I can't figure that out.

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Made a quick video for that, for you: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rHLCZqGlas2ces0

[@sherrysanders6651]

what software do you use or something easy for at home person not djing

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Mentioned in the video - karafun. Yes super easy

[@bboymac84]

Are you using Cellular or Wifi data to get the songs?

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Wifi but I also as a backup, download the most popular or pre requested songs

[@justawfulgamer7738]

Whats the speaker?

[@blackbeltbartenfeld]

Where did you get your microphone holder

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Stephen, found it on Amazon - check the video description for a link

[@djmickeyrendon7]

Can you please post link for the microphones ?

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Dang no longer available on amazon -- here was the description for them: Wireless Microphone System, Alvoxcon Dual UHF Dynamic Handheld mic for iPhone, Computer, Karaoke, Conference, DJ, Vocal Recording, Singing, Church, On Stage Performance, Party Events (1/4 inch Plug)

[@miketobin5069]

Where can I buy this Monster speaker?

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

found it at Sam's club a while ago!

[@lyndellstout3072]

Where did you get the bag from?

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

pretty sure it came with the tripod-- www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01DT81JAO/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[@manuelcardenas3441]

Where you buy the bag?

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Amazon! It came with the karaoke stand

[@djkentertainment0426]

Can't find that double mic clamp anywhere???

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Here you go a.co/d/5eBmpgL

[@jmidro]

What was the cost for all of that? All Equipment and subscription per mo?

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Karafun is only like $10 a month or something? Gear - depends on what kind of iPad and speaker you pick- let’s say $1500. The mics I found and the mic stand I show would be $200 total. :)

[@jmidro]

@@SmilestonesDJAdventures thanks for the reply! How many songs do you load onto for offline? Do you feel it’s enough? Do clients complain that you need more songs? How do you handle that? Also are you able to run a wire from the laptop to a bigger screen if they want?

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

@@jmidro karafun can let you download different playlists for offline , and can even give you the option to download the top 100 or 200 or 300 tracks (or something similar)

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Also yeah you can connect to a TV - you can connect an HDMI adapter to the iPad (or possibly do a screen share to an Apple TV or something)

[@jmidro]

@@SmilestonesDJAdventures wow. Can the iPad handle 300 or more tracks? Are clients content for that amount or do you get complaints for more songs? How many gigs have you done for karaoke so far?? Tryna get a gauge before I start.

[@chadwickdavis1749]

In northern Ohio they expect big productions as well as expensive equipment, with wireless mics and line array speakers and you had better have their preferred version of the song or they get quite upset, but we do have great singers, it’s not uncommon to have 20-30 singers in a rotation

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Right on Chadwick. I think the key to this DJ thing is to meet or exceed expectations- so if your client wants a big karaoke setup, you wouldn’t want my little quick and easy solution in the video. But if it’s an add on for a short karaoke session, or a quick drop in at a party or wedding, I’ve found that this is a nice tool in the bag to use!

[@mikegreen8047]

Can you use karafun offline?

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Yes sir! You can download specific songs and even download their multipacks like “top 100 popular karaoke songs” to be used offline. However you wouldn’t be able to access anything you didn’t download beforehand

[@gilbertlopez4272]

Do I need to have it connected to WiFi?

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

No actually! I talk through that in the video - watch it and check it out!

[@Eightiesbaby723]

So what if you do t have good wifi

[@davemcdonald8790]

What app do you use?

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Mentioned a lot in the video, check it out!

[@shadowhenge7118]

Honestly im just here because my partner loves it and itd be fun for her

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Do it!

[@DanielRodriguez-wg6kf]

Hey great video do you have the 50 bucks subscription

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

No I just usually subscribe for the month if I'm going to be doing karaoke. You can do it real time and I find that it costs me less in the long run! :)

[@EntertainAustralia]

This is great for Home but definitely not for the professional Karaoke DJ that's for sure

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Oh yes you’re right. But for a non-karaoke Dj who wants to drop in karaoke quickly and easily (and cheaply) for a segment every once in awhile - this is brilliant solution. I’ve gotten compliments from clients!

[@arshiamashhadi6802]

how is this simple??

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

I’d say, “simple” compared with other options for karaoke setup. Simple meaning - easy and inexpensive to get going, easy to drop into a party or wedding (even ad hoc or with just a moments notice). But I get that some peeps might think it is a lot of little steps to get up and running. But hey - it’s worth it :)

[@arshiamashhadi6802]

@@SmilestonesDJAdventures Thank you for your reply. I really liked your energy and descriptive way of illustrating the method, but it wasn't in any way easy or inexpensive. Truth to be told, I was looking for a way to set up karaoke only using a phone and my stereo system without any additional equipment like microphones or sound mixers as I was only going to employ it for personal use. eventually, I found an app called "mic2mixer" which allowed me to use my phone as a microphone, and when connecting to the stereo, it amplified my voice. I used youtube along with it to play the songs.

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

@@arshiamashhadi6802 awesome Arshia, that sounds like a super easy way :)

[@Mike_Greene]

0:39 the title is good enough, why do you waste time telling us about YOUR problems??? So we have to try to find the rime when you actually get into "Simple Karaoke Setup for Mobile DJs - Add Another Component to your Services!" We are not here for your reasons. for instance, im just looking for a karaoke software that has the features im looking for. Do you care? Im sure you dont and it's irrelevant to "Simple Karaoke Setup for Mobile DJs - Add Another Component to your Services!". Why you guys just cant start your vid with "Step 1" or "what you will need is....", Anything else could be answered in the comments if you actually cared about other ppl's problems , , , DARNNIT!!! Now you've made me waste 5 MORE minutes because i HAD to type out this long ass comment that prob wont be read, anyway.... and now i gotta rewind the video to see if the video actually has the info i seeking because i was distracted because you made me type out this long comment....sigh!!

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

Mike look I read your comment! Thanks for the feedback. Sorry my video here and others are super streamlined. I’m a talker and like to explain reasons behind what I’m talking about - and this KZbin platform seems to work best that way, versus just directly speed walking through the content. But maybe this style isn’t for you. Truly hope there was a nugget or 2 in here for you. BTW try watching videos at 1.5x or 2x speed if you feel like it’s wasting too much time.

[@Mike_Greene]

@@SmilestonesDJAdventures thats the way that works for you? When you got that software, did you really have to look up a video to figure it out or did you read the instructions that was titled "GET STARTED'?? And while reading 'get started' did it begin with, 'well while i was sitting at home one day...' lol just bussin ya chops. thanks for the info

[@Mike_Greene]

@@SmilestonesDJAdventures hey bro, i swore i repied to my op minutes later, after watching the video saying i did find it useful but ii dont know what happened to the comment

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

@@Mike_Greene good point lol

[@SmilestonesDJAdventures]

@@Mike_Greene ah great to hear that Mike. Thanks for letting me know!