Table of Contents
- Intro
- The Crucial Factors to Consider
- The Pioneer DDJ-400 Controller / DDJ FLX-4
- The Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 Controller
- The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200
- The Roland DJ-202 Controller
- The Final Verdict and Author’s Choice
Intro
The art of DJing is a skill that goes far beyond hitting play on a Spotify playlist. It involves blending tracks, adding effects and creating a unique musical experience. If you’re new to the DJing game, selecting your first controller can feel overwhelming. Not to fret! We’re here to assist with a breakdown of the best entry-level DJ controllers on the market.
The Crucial Factors to Consider
Deciding on your first DJ controller might seem like a daunting task, but with a bit of guidance, it becomes an exciting journey into the heart of your musical creativity. Here are the key elements to keep in mind while selecting your DJ controller.
Top of the list is compatibility. Your controller should seamlessly integrate with your DJ software of choice. Check the specs and ensure it’s a match made in heaven.
Next up is build quality and portability. If you’re a DJ on the move, you’ll need a controller that can survive the rigours of the road. Look for sturdy construction and a design that’s easy to pack and transport.
Lastly, let’s talk features. Depending on your style and how you want to perform, different functions will have varying importance. Some DJs can’t live without a comprehensive EQ control, while others swear by performance pads. Don’t forget to check if it includes a built-in audio interface – it’s crucial for connecting your gear to speakers and headphones.
Remember, the perfect controller is out there for everyone – it’s about finding the one that suits your style and meets your needs. Be sure to keep these crucial factors in mind as you embark on your DJing adventure.
The Pioneer DDJ-400 Controller / DDJ FLX-4
As a novice, your DJ controller can make or break your experience, and the Pioneer DDJ-400 controller is often a first choice for those dipping their toes into the DJ world. This controller is the perfect balance of user-friendliness and professional-grade features, making it an ideal starting point for your DJ journey.
Its design mirrors the professional NXS2 set-up, allowing you to familiarise yourself with industry-standard layouts, whilst its in-built tutorial feature ensures you’ll be beat matching and crossfading in no time. The DDJ-400’s intuitive design ensures easy navigation, and you’ll find yourself cueing up tracks, looping and adding effects with ease.
Boasting a professional layout, you’ll find this controller offers you easy access to every feature – from performance pads to play/cue buttons, the EQ knobs and jog wheels. The DDJ-400 is equipped with a built-in sound card and the capability to plug and play, connecting easily to your laptop and making it straightforward to set up at any gig or house party.
But, where the DDJ-400 really shines is in its seamless integration with the Rekordbox DJ software. It comes bundled with a free licence key for the software, giving you access to a vast array of tools and effects, and enabling you to prepare your sets in advance.
The Pioneer DDJ-400 truly gives a novice DJ the confidence to mix and perform, and its professional features ensure that as your skills develop, your controller can develop with you. A winner for anyone starting out in DJing!
The Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 Controller
If you’re seeking a DJ controller that’s both feature-rich and beginner-friendly, then look no further than the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3. This controller impresses with its multitude of features that are designed to help you create a unique, immersive sound experience.
Ergonomically designed with long, 100mm pitch sliders to make beat matching a breeze, it’s clear this controller is created with budding DJs in mind. Notably, it offers 16 multi-function performance pads adding a world of creativity to your mixes. It even includes dedicated filter knobs for each channel, allowing you to add a touch of flair to your sets.
As for compatibility, this controller shines with its seamless integration with Serato DJ Lite, a popular DJ software among both professionals and novices. In addition, the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 comes equipped with a built-in audio interface, making it easy to plug into your speakers and get the party started.
With its metal jog wheels for scratching, multiple FX manipulation, and an impressive suite of controls, this controller offers you a comprehensive toolbox to experiment and hone your DJ skills. The inclusion of Prime Loops remix tool kit also gives you access to over 380 premium instrument loops, drum kits, one-shots, and more.
Lastly, it’s worth noting that the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 is designed for comfort, with an intuitive layout that ensures all controls are within easy reach. Despite being packed with features, it retains a sleek, portable design, making it easy to transport for gigs or house parties. The Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 proves that an entry-level controller doesn’t mean compromising on features.
The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200
When it comes to cost-effective yet reliable choices, the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 deserves a special mention. This budget-friendly controller is an excellent pick for those at the start of their DJing journey who need to keep an eye on the purse strings, but still want a solid introduction to the craft.
What sets the Inpulse 200 apart is its focus on teaching. The controller comes with a unique feature, the DJUCED software, which includes an interactive help section and a DJ Academy with video tutorials to aid novices in mastering the basics. It’s like having a personal tutor guiding you as you navigate your way around the decks.
The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 may be compact, but it certainly doesn’t skimp on features. It comes equipped with an Intelligent Music Assistant (IMA) that suggests suitable tracks to play next, assisting in creating smooth mixes and transitions.
The Beatmatch guide and tempo arrows also help to train your ear and learn how to manually beatmatch tracks, while the energy function lets you know the best time to hype up or calm down the crowd based on the energy level of the track.
As for build quality, this controller may be lightweight, but it’s sturdy and robust, ensuring it can withstand regular use. Furthermore, its compact size makes it highly portable, ideal for those DJing on the move.
So, if you’re after a DJ controller that combines affordability, practicality and the chance to learn the ropes, the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 could well be the right choice for you.
The Roland DJ-202 Controller
The Roland DJ-202 takes the stage as an excellent choice for budding DJs ready to explore advanced functionalities. A sophisticated piece of kit, this controller packs a punch with its dual channel and four-deck capabilities, positioning itself as a perfect platform for your creative experiments.
In true Roland style, the DJ-202 pushes boundaries and refuses to hold back on features. You’ll find a built-in drum machine with sounds from Roland’s classic TR-909, TR-808, TR-707, and TR-606 drum machines, giving your sets a flavour that only Roland can provide. It’s a fantastic feature that adds a whole new level of creativity to your mixing, allowing you to incorporate beat patterns into your performance.
As for compatibility, the DJ-202 hits the mark with its deep integration with Serato DJ Lite, enabling you to unlock Serato DJ Pro by simply plugging into your computer. This plug-and-play capability ensures you can quickly get down to business, be it at a gig or home practice.
The Roland DJ-202 also impresses with its design, sporting a robust, durable build that is meant to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. It may be compact, but it is a force to be reckoned with, providing a layout that is intuitive and inviting for beginners.
In summary, the Roland DJ-202 proves that entry-level does not equate to basic. It offers an exciting blend of advanced features, a user-friendly design and top-notch quality, making it a worthy contender for anyone stepping into the world of DJing. So, are you ready to unleash your creativity with the Roland DJ-202?
The Final Verdict and Author’s Choice
Weighing up the merits of these capable entry-level DJ controllers, it’s clear that there’s an ideal pick for everyone, depending on your individual preferences and aspirations. Are you after a controller that simulates a professional set-up to ease your transition into the DJing realm? Then the Pioneer DDJ-400 may be your prime choice, excelling with its user-friendly design and comprehensive features. Yet, the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 gives it a good run for its money, impressing with its feature-rich construction, intuitive layout, and its effortless blending of functionality with beginner-friendliness.
Meanwhile, the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 might be your perfect partner if you’re after a budget-friendly introduction into DJing that still offers solid features and a focus on education. And for those ready to dive into advanced functionalities, the Roland DJ-202 stands tall, offering a unique blend of creative features and robust build.
Ultimately, the decision lies in your hands – consider your specific needs, the style of DJing you aspire to, and the features that you value the most. In the end, the perfect controller for you is the one that feels right and makes your DJing journey an exciting and rewarding adventure. With the right controller in your corner, you’ll soon be creating unique musical experiences that capture the heart and soul of your audience. Let the music play!
Author’s Choice – Pioneer DDJ 400 / Pioneer DDJ FLX-4