Reason
 

I have yet to get reason, but I have seen my buddy use it and it looks interesting. I was wondering if this software has the capabilities that a live performing DJ / Electronic artist would have available to them. Like is there a turn table (mp3 capable), drum machine, etc.? If not, is there kinda of a 'all in one' software program? I have been really dying to get out there and mess around with this side of the music, but dont really wanna spend $10k only to realize I am no good at it.

Here a cheaper alternative though it's not quite the same.

http://www.sweetstall.com/acatalog/riesen-big-bag.jpg

I once killed a duck with those.

Reason doesn't have a turntable feature and isn't something I could really picture a DJ using live. It is a fantastic sequencing program though and I use it all the time. I'd highly recommend it for working on electronic music.

If you're more interested in the live side of electronic music though you might be better off with Ableton Live, an equally amazing program that is more suited to live music making.

I wasn't suggesting that a DJ would use it live, only that it had the capabilities (albeit probably not as high quality) of doing all the things they can do. Basically I want to be able to practice doing this stuff without having to buy any equipment to see if it would be worth an investment perhaps in the future. So Ableton Live eh?

Ableton Live doesn't have a literal turntable function either, but it does have things that work a bit like turntables. It allows you to create and manipulate loops in real time.

Reason is only good for it's huge soundbank.
Apart from that, the mixing and arranging features leave alot to be desired.
It's best to Rewire it's sounds through Pro tools or Ableton or anything that isn't Reason.

Reason's not bad for what it is but it doesn't have as much thump as some other programs. If you wanna dj with something that makes beats i'd go with an MPC. Its not a computer program but it's being done lots at live shows and the features are really cool.