'You're Not a Real DJ Unless You Play Vinyl' - Technology and Formats - The Progression of Dance Music and DJ Culture

Drawing on ethnographic research I conducted into the Sydney commercial house music scene between 2002 and 2007, this article explores some of the issues that have arisen in recent years in regard to the changes in technology that have brought about shifts not only in the way DJs play music while performing, but also in the way these DJs source and obtain this music from around the world. The ideas, opinions and interpretations of a selection of local DJs and other music industry practitioners who work within the Sydney electronic dance music scene are central to this analysis of one aspect of DJ culture within the city. Incorporated within this discussion of technology and formats is an assessment by DJs of the likelihood and desirability of a complete move away from vinyl, and towards the use of digital music files.