First, a quick catch up for those not following the debate. There has been a trend recently for DJ's to use their laptops on stage with programs that emulate the A B deck configuration. Sometimes, these programs allow the DJ to auto-beatmatch tracks and add effects and filters never dreamed of in the analogue era.
The Progressives:
Many Dj's using these computer systems love the portability of it all. No longer do you have to come to the club with two big turntables and crates upon crates of records(back problems, anyone?). Instead you can fit your whole setup in a backpack.
Many of these "digital DJ's" also argue the practice is progressive for the industry as a whole. They argue that the time that used to be spent manually beat matching the songs can now be used to make more creative mixes that are more pleasurable for audiences.
The Orthodox
While there are some that argue the merits of laptop use there are just as many that will fight tooth and nail against the practice. These, usually older DJ's argue that computer use is "cheating" and especially take quarrel with the issue of auto beatmatching.
These DJ's believe there is something with the use of Vinyl that can never be replaced with a laptop and computer controllers.
Well Whose Right?
That's really up to you. Crowds have been rocked with nothing more than a laptop and similarly with a whole host of turntables, CDJ's and warm analogue sound. In my opinion the end matter is what comes out of the speakers, not how it gets there.
