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DJ Controller Review: Unbiased Analysis and Top Picks
Published: February 21, 2024
Looking for the best DJ controller? Our unbiased review gives you expert analysis and top picks to help you make the right choice. Discover the ultimate DJ controllers here!
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Are you in the market for a new DJ controller but feeling overwhelmed by all the options out there? You've come to the right place. In this review, we will provide an unbiased analysis of the top DJ controllers on the market and offer our top picks to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're a professional DJ or just starting out, we've got you covered. So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the world of DJ controllers.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2 is the ideal DJ controller for beginners. It comes with built-in Tempo and Beat Align light guides to help users learn the basics of DJing. The controller integrates music streaming services and includes Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED software, making it easy to mix tracks. Additionally, it offers access to tutorials from the pros at the DJ Academy, allowing users to master the fundamentals of DJing. It is a compact, well-made, and approachable beginner's option.
Key Features
- Learn the basics of DJing with built-in Tempo and Beat Align light guides
- Create infinite variations of mixes with the STEMS feature
- Integrates music streaming services for mixing tracks
- Access tutorials from the pros at the DJ Academy
- Includes Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED software
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 15.60Lx10.30Wx3.70H
Pros
- Compact and approachable for beginners
- Well-made with quality buttons, sliders, knobs, and platters
- Integrates music streaming services for mixing tracks
- Includes software and tutorials for beginners
Cons
- Limited features compared to more advanced controllers
- Initial setup and music loading can be complicated for some users
The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2 is a great starter DJ controller, perfect for beginners looking to learn the art of DJing. It offers essential features, quality construction, and access to tutorials from the DJ Academy. While it may lack some advanced features, it provides excellent value for its price and is a highly recommended choice for those starting out in the world of DJing.
Overall Score: 6/10
The Hercules DJControl Mix is a Bluetooth wireless DJ controller designed for smartphones and tablets. It's compatible with Android and iOS devices and comes with a foldable smartphone stand for easy mixing on the go. The controller can be easily connected via Bluetooth Low Energy, and it includes the free djay app for unlimited use. While it's great for practicing and mixing music on the go, it may not be suitable for professional events due to occasional Bluetooth synchronization issues and limited connectivity options.
Key Features
- Bluetooth Wireless Controller For Android And Iphone Smartphones
- Easily Mix On Your Smartphone Via Bluetooth Low Energy
- Controls the djay app available free of charge for Android and i OS
- Foldable Smartphone Stand Included
Specifications
- Color: White
- Dimension: 1.70Lx16.34Wx3.94H
Pros
- Portable and compact design
- Ideal for practicing and mixing music on the go
- Includes a foldable smartphone stand for added convenience
Cons
- Occasional Bluetooth synchronization issues
- No physical audio input/outputs, Bluetooth-only connectivity limits options
The Hercules DJControl Mix is a convenient and portable DJ controller for practicing and mixing music using smartphones and tablets. While it offers great value for beginners and casual use, its occasional Bluetooth synchronization issues and limited connectivity options may not make it suitable for professional events. Overall, it’s a solid choice for on-the-go mixing and practice sessions.
Overall Score: 7/10
The Numark Party Mix II is a complete DJ controller with party lights, audio interface, and USB connectivity. It features 2 DJ decks, built-in LED light show sync, and performance pads with 4 DJ pad FX. This DJ system allows you to stream millions of tracks and connect to all your DJ equipment. With an integrated DJ mixer, headphone output, and main output, it's perfect for beginners and professionals alike. The compact size with party lights makes it easy to use and carry around. The controller is compatible with Algoriddim djay and Serato DJ Lite, offering a seamless, hands-on DJ experience.
Key Features
- Complete Algoriddim Djay Serato DJSystem: USB DJ equipment with 2 decks and built-in audio interface
- Exciting DJLighting FX: Built-in LED DJ light show syncs to your DJ mix
- Get Hands On With Your DJSet: Performance pads with 4 DJ pad FX and library controls
- Stream Millions Of Tracks: Stream DJ music through Serato DJ Lite or djay Pro AI
- Command Your DJMix Connect To All Your DJEquipment: DJ Headphones output and 1/8-inch main output
Specifications
- Dimension: 7.83Lx12.82Wx2.04H
- Size: With Party Lights
Pros
- Integrated DJ mixer with 2-band EQ and crossfader
- Compact and lightweight, easy to use and carry around
- Compatible with Algoriddim djay and Serato DJ Lite
- Allows streaming millions of tracks and connecting to all DJ equipment
Cons
- Right jog wheel may malfunction after regular use
- Some features may be restrictive and difficult to manipulate
- Software limitations for remapping and keylock functionality can be annoying
The Numark Party Mix II offers a range of features for both beginners and professional DJs. Its integrated DJ mixer, performance pads, and compatibility with Algoriddim djay and Serato DJ Lite make it a versatile and user-friendly controller. While some users experienced issues with specific features, the overall functionality and performance make it a reliable option for DJ enthusiasts.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 is a 2-deck USB DJ controller designed for use with Serato DJ and DJUCED. It features a built-in audio interface, 16 backlit RGB pads, vinyl function, loop in/loop out buttons, filter/FX area for smooth transitions between tracks, and large jog wheels with touch detection for scratching. The retractable/extendable feet protect the controller from spilled drinks. It comes with included software and has multiple audio inputs and outputs. The durable, sturdy structure makes it a perfect choice for beginners and experienced DJs alike.
Key Features
- 2-Deck Usb Dj Controller With Built-In Audio Interface And Hardware Input Mixer For Audio Inputs
- 16 Backlit Rgb Pads, Vinyl Function, Loop In/Loop Out Buttons
- Smooth, Original Transitions Between Tracks Thanks To The Filter/FX Area
- Retractable/Extendable Feet To Protect The Controller From Spilled Drinks
Specifications
- Dimension: 5.12Lx20.26Wx10.54H
Pros
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Great for beginners and experienced DJs
- Includes software and multiple audio inputs/outputs
Cons
- Does not come with a Mac-compatible cord
The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 is a fantastic USB DJ controller suitable for beginners and experienced DJs. With sturdy construction, included software, and multiple audio inputs/outputs, it offers great value for its price. However, it may not come with a Mac-compatible cord, so users should be aware of this limitation.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX is a complete DJ control system that offers 4 decks of control, built-in 24-bit audio interface, visual jog wheel displays, and fun, quick-launch FX pads. It allows for personalized DJ sets with instant loop controls, while also offering the ability to browse and stream millions of tracks directly in Serato DJ Lite. With a microphone input, headphone output, and RCA output, it's ready to connect to all your DJ equipment. Plus, it comes with a mixer featuring 3-band EQ, filter knobs, channel faders, and a crossfader.
Key Features
- Complete Serato DJ System
- Visualize Your DJ Mix
- Personalize Your DJ Set
- Stream Millions of Tracks
- Ready to Connect To All Your DJ Equipment
Specifications
- Dimension: 9.48Lx21.61Wx2.00H
- Size: 4 Decks + Jog Wheel Displays
Pros
- Great for all levels
- Excellent features at this price
- Sturdy and easy to learn
Cons
- Weak version of Serato Lite
- Cross fader issues after a while
- Only RCA outputs
The Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX is a feature-packed DJ controller suitable for all levels of expertise. While it has some minor drawbacks, its robust build, intuitive controls, and the ability to work with leading DJ software make it a solid choice for DJs of all skill levels.
Overall Score: 7/10
The Numark DJ2GO2 Touch is a compact 2 channel DJ controller designed for both Mac and PC. It features touch capacitive jog-wheels, pitch faders, and a crossfader, giving you total mix control. The on-board audio interface offers flexible connectivity with DJ equipment, including mixers and speakers. Additionally, it is compatible with popular DJ apps, features four pad modes for cue-points and looping, and allows seamless streaming of tracks from leading providers. Its sleek, low-profile design makes it ultra-portable and perfect for on-the-go use.
Key Features
- Ultra-Portable, Feature Packed – Compact 2 channel Serato DJ Lite USB DJ Controller
- Connectivity Covered – On-board audio interface with 1/8-inch headphone output
- Total Mix Control – 2 DJ decks with crossfader, touch capacitive jog-wheels, and pitch faders
- I OS Compatibility – Connect DJ2GO2 Touch to your i OS device using the Apple Camera Connection Kit
- Stream millions of tracks – Stream directly in Serato DJ Lite from leading providers
- Enhance your performance – Four pad modes for total control of cue-points, looping, and sample playback
- Made-to-move, style driven design – Sleek, low-profile and ultra-portable design
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 3.39Lx12.32Wx1.30H
- Size: One Size
Pros
- Easy to use and compact
- Works with software and provides total mix control
- Compatible with popular DJ apps
Cons
- Issues with the main output having a crackling sound
- Some customers experienced static sound and feedback issues
- Monthly subscription required for DJay Pro and music streaming services
The Numark DJ2GO2 Touch is an excellent choice for DJs looking for a compact, feature-packed controller. It offers impressive functionality, seamless connectivity, and a sleek design making it a must-have for anyone in the DJ community.
Overall Score: 7/10
The Headliner Covina DJ Controller Stand is a strong and durable stand designed to hold two devices such as a DJ controller and a laptop, or small keyboard and pad controllers. It is compatible with a wide range of DJ controllers and ideal for adding gear above your existing DJ or music production setup. The stand offers multiple height and width settings to find the ideal position for any rig and fits all laptop sizes. However, some users have noted issues with stability and assembly instructions.
Key Features
- Strong and durable stand for two devices: True
- Compatible with a wide range of DJ controllers: True
- Multiple height and width settings: True
- Ideal for adding gear above existing setup: True
- Fits all laptop sizes: True
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 0.00Lx0.00Wx0.00H
Pros
- Durability
- Portable
- Compatible with multiple devices
- Ideal for adding gear above existing setup
- Fits all laptop sizes
Cons
- Stability
- Lack of firmness in base for some controllers
- Issue with assembly instructions
The Headliner Covina DJ Controller Stand is a solid and versatile option for DJs and music producers. While it offers excellent durability and compatibility with various devices, there are some concerns regarding stability and assembly instructions. Overall, it is a good choice for those looking to elevate their music setup.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 is a USB DJ controller designed for both beginners and experienced DJs. The controller comes with Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED software, making it compatible with both programs. It features 2 decks with 16 pads and a built-in sound card, allowing you to mix using tracks stored on your computer or from music streaming services. The improved jog wheels make scratching easier, and the Beatmatch Guide assists in adjusting tracks. With the IMA (Intelligent Music Assistant) in DJUCED, you can prepare your mixes quickly and easily by suggesting the best-suited tracks. The controller also has clear level meters and various buttons and functions, including play, sync, cue, fx, tempo, and loop. The controller's color is black, and its dimensions are 3.78Lx20.16Wx12.68H.
Key Features
- Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED software included
- Built-in light guides assist in manual track adjustments
- Improved jog wheels for easier scratching
- Mix tracks from computer or music streaming services
- Intelligent Music Assistant suggests best-suited tracks
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 3.78Lx20.16Wx12.68H
Pros
- Easy to use for beginners
- Compatible with Serato DJ Pro
- Various buttons and functions for customization
- Built-in light guides for manual track adjustments
Cons
- Defective units reported
- Incompatibility with certain music games
- Minor audio output issues
The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 is a versatile and user-friendly USB DJ controller suitable for both beginners and experienced DJs. With features like built-in light guides, intelligent music assistance, and compatibility with popular DJ software, it offers great value for the price. Although there have been reports of defective units and incompatibility with certain music games, the overall customer satisfaction and positive reviews indicate that it is an excellent choice for aspiring and professional DJs alike.
Overall Score: 9/10
The RANE ONE is a complete DJ set and controller designed for Serato DJ with integrated DJ mixer, motorized platters, and Serato DJ Pro included. The system features 2 decks of control, 7.2" motorized platters, quick-launch FX, touch-sensitive performance pads, and a dedicated DJ mixer with a 3-band EQ. The RANE ONE is compatible with Serato Stems with Serato DJ Pro 3.0 onwards and offers dual USB laptop connections, switchable phono/line inputs, balanced XLR outputs, and two dual TRS/XLR microphone inputs. The system provides a traditional vinyl feel with adjustable high/low torque motors and is designed for mobile DJs, streaming DJs, and professional use.
Key Features
- Complete Serato DJ System with integrated DJ mixer
- Personalize DJ Set with quick-launch FX and performance pads
- Touch and Feel DJ Mix with 7.2" motorized platters
- Dedicated DJ Mixer with 3-band EQ and LP/HP filter control
- Pro Connectivity with dual USB laptop connections and microphone inputs
Specifications
- Dimension: 4.90Lx13.60Wx26.50H
Pros
- Motorized platters for a traditional vinyl feel
- High-quality soundcard and professional outputs
- Compatible with Serato Stems and Serato DJ Pro
- Multiple connectivity options and switchable inputs
Cons
- No on-board hardware FX
- Some components may require replacement for optimal performance
- Limited beatgrid editing controls on the controller
The RANE ONE DJ Set and Controller offers a complete and professional DJ experience with its motorized platters, dedicated mixer, and seamless Serato integration. While it may have a few drawbacks, such as the lack of on-board hardware FX, it excels in overall functionality, sound quality, and versatility, making it an excellent choice for DJs looking for a comprehensive and portable system.
Overall Score: 7/10
The Numark Mixtrack Pro FX is a 2-deck DJ controller designed for Serato DJ. It features large touch-sensitive jog wheels, six FX paddles, browse and stream music directly in Serato DJ Lite, built-in audio interface, and various connectivity options. Perfect for beginners and casual DJs, but has technical issues reported by some advanced users.
Key Features
- Complete Serato DJ system with 2 decks
- Large capacitive-touch jog wheels
- Six quick-launch FX with dual paddle triggers
- Stream music directly in Serato DJ Lite
- Microphone input, headphone output, and RCA output
Specifications
- Dimension: 9.48Lx21.61Wx2.00H
- Size: 2 Decks
Pros
- Easy to learn on for beginners
- Solid build quality
- Plenty of features for the price
Cons
- Reports of technical issues with jog wheels
- Subpar built-in sound card
- Limited connectivity options
The Numark Mixtrack Pro FX is a solid choice for beginner and casual DJs, offering a wide range of features at an affordable price. However, some technical issues may arise for more advanced users, and the built-in sound card and connectivity options may not meet the needs of professionals.
What is a DJ Controller?
- A DJ controller is a piece of equipment used by DJs to mix and manipulate music during a live performance or recording session.
- It typically includes knobs, faders, buttons, and jog wheels that allow the DJ to control various aspects of the music, such as volume, tempo, and effects.
Key Features to Consider:
- Software Compatibility: Ensure that the DJ controller is compatible with the software you plan to use for mixing music.
- Number of Channels: Consider how many channels the controller has, as this will determine how many tracks you can mix at once.
- Connectivity Options: Look for a controller with a variety of connectivity options, such as USB, MIDI, and audio inputs/outputs.
- Pad and Trigger Functions: Some controllers come with pads and trigger functions for creating and manipulating loops, samples, and effects.
- Build Quality and Durability: Consider the build quality of the controller, as it will affect its durability and longevity.
- Size and Portability: If you plan to use the controller for live performances, consider its size and portability for easy transport.
Additional Considerations:
- Budget: Determine your budget for purchasing a DJ controller and look for options within your price range.
- User Interface: Consider the layout and design of the controller's interface – does it feel intuitive and easy to use?
- Additional Features: Some controllers may include extra features such as built-in audio interfaces, EQ controls, and performance pads.
Benefits of Using a DJ Controller:
- Versatility: DJ controllers offer a wide range of features and functions, allowing for diverse and creative mixing possibilities.
- Portability: Many controllers are compact and lightweight, making them easy to transport for gigs and performances.
- Integration with Software: Controllers are designed to work seamlessly with popular DJ software, providing a more streamlined mixing experience.
How to Choose the Right DJ Controller for You:
- Identify Your Needs: Determine your specific requirements and goals for using a DJ controller – whether it's for live performances, studio recording, or casual mixing at home.
- Research and Compare: Take the time to research different models and brands of DJ controllers, comparing their features and capabilities to find the best fit for you.
- Read Reviews and User Feedback: Look for reviews and user feedback on different controllers to gain insights into their performance, reliability, and user experience.
- Test and Demo: If possible, visit a music store to test out different controllers and get a feel for their functionality and usability before making a purchase.
- Consider Future Growth: Think about your long-term needs and whether the controller you choose will support your growth as a DJ, such as adding more advanced features or an expanded setup.
Final Thoughts:
- Purchasing a DJ controller is an important investment for any aspiring or professional DJ.
- Take the time to consider your specific needs, do thorough research, and test out different options before making a decision.
- Ultimately, the right DJ controller for you will depend on your unique style, preferences, and goals as a DJ.
Frequently Asked Questions about DJ Controller Review: Unbiased Analysis and Top Picks
A DJ controller is used to mix and manipulate music tracks during a live performance or recording session.
A DJ controller works by connecting to a computer or other devices and allows the user to manipulate and control various aspects of the music, such as volume, tempo, and effects.
The main features of a DJ controller include jog wheels for scratching, faders and knobs for adjusting levels and effects, and buttons for triggering samples and loops.
While some DJ controllers are designed for beginners, it’s helpful to have some basic understanding of music and mixing techniques before using a DJ controller.
DJ controllers can be purchased at music stores, electronic retailers, and online marketplaces. It’s important to research and compare different models before making a purchase.
