Pioneer DVJ/SVM-1000 vs PC based VJ system

[vjbeach]

I'm new to the world of VJing and could use some advice and opinions on building a new VJ set-up for a nightclub that wants to play dance and Top 40 music videos with a resident VJ (probably me).

One option appears to be composed of the Pioneer SVM-1000 mixer and two DVJ-1000 DVD players, which will cost around $10K.

Another option would be to build some type of computer based system (PC or Mac) where all the videos were files on a hard drive. I imagine this would be much cheaper, like under 5 grand?

For the sake of argument, lets say money was not the number one factor, nor is the video format the music videos come in.

The number one factor of importance would be reliability, or something that will work as expected for a long time. And ease of use is also important. I don't have a lot of DJ/VJ experience but am very experienced in video production. I'd like something that will let me play and mix music videos in an easy way with a low learning curve.

By the way, you might ask why the nightclub owner doesn't just play Promo Only DVDs without a VJ, but they want someone who can play requests from customers and also put together theme nights, like all 80's music, etc.

I think one advantage to a PC based system is that all of the videos would be cataloged and easy to find at a moments notice. In the Pioneer system I'll probably still need a PC to keep track of which DVD has the songs I need. One disadvantage to a PC based system is the reliability and potential to crash, especially in a smokey environment like a bar.

So having said all that, which would you recommend?

Thanks!

[6071842]

Have you looked into Resolume?

[PCProject]

Future proof would suggest to me to go PC based IF it is simply playing back promo (or whatever) music videos then something like virtual DJ would most likely be a good option.
If you were to go and spend 10k on dvd players and svm a)you are limited to what are becoming legacy resolutions and b) how much longer will dvd's actually be around? Long enough to recoup the investment?
If you were in the future going to be more adventurous and create specific gfx for nights/special events at the club you would end up having to get either a) a computer to create them with to put onto dvd or b) be spending money outside of the club to get them.

[sleepytom]

I would get either Serato Video or VirtualDJ - either of these options will do fine. DVD players are really annoying.

The Serato system with the Rane mixer is the best option, cheaper than the pioneer DVJs and with integrated library control. It is quite happy to mix HD videos.

Get a dedicated computer system to go with the mixer, and you'll have a system which is reliable and dependable for years into the future.

[vjbeach]

Thanks everyone! After writing this post the thought occurred to me that I could probably build a PC based system that includes a backup PC and drive (in case the main one crashes) for less than the Pioneer system so I guess that's the way to go!