DJing this way is still popular, especially with the ongoing comeback of vinyl.
However, it can be an expensive hobby if DJing isn’t an income source.
Investing in a DJ controller opens new doors.
Image Credit: viktoriia varvashchenko/Shutterstock
They are lightweight and portable and work directly from a laptop.
Here are the best DJ controllers available today.
Pioneer DJ DDJ 1000
DJs often tout the DDJ 1000 as the greatest DJ controller ever released.
Its pretty hard to argue with that, and its premium price reflects this.
Its an easy-to-set-up four-channel controller compatible with rekordbox only.
The layout is familiar, with everything being where it should be.
The buttons and faders are sturdy, and aggressive battle mixers certainly dont need to hold back.
Everything feels like it can take a bit of punishment.
Additionally, the full-size jog wheels are solid and mechanical.
There isnt even a hint of cost-cutting in their design.
They have adjustable resistance and feature colorful LCD screens.
The mixer section is logical and comfortable.
Each channel has a three-band equalizer with the trims and meters where they should be.
You may not yet be ready to give up the feel of a spinning wheel beneath your fingers.
With this controllers motorized jog wheels, you dont have to.
They also feature touch strips that allow you to drop the needle anywhere you choose.
They are a good size, too.
Serato is the preferred software choice for this controller.
It comes with Serato DJ Pro, and installation is simple.
Numark DJ2GO2 Touch
Not all DJ controllers need to cost a lot.
The layout is simple, and the functions are basic.
Pretty much everything you need, and more, to get started.
It works with Serato DJ software, and purchases include Serato DJ Lite.
Download the software, plug in your headphones, speakers, and controller, and away you go.
It is a more stylish and professional-looking controller compared to previous iterations.
Not only that, but it is more streamlined and compact, too.
Small, high-resolution RGB displays show essential and customizable information to help you keep an eye on things.
These features keep the DJ in the moment and thoroughly engaged with their audience.
Native Instruments controllers are only compatible with Traktor software.
Its an excellent software ranked right up there with the best and offers high-quality audio and creative DJ features.
The controller features new Mixer FX on each channel.
A single knob gives simplicity and control to the most popular effects.
They can aid in long transitions and ensure the DJ has as much fun as the dance floor.
Its condensed down and is much easier to use.
It has two channels, precisely the number a beginner should use.
It doesnt feature the haptic drive with which the S4 is currently creating a buzz in the DJ world.
This simplicity means it’s possible for you to focus more on pleasing your listeners and mastering the basics.
Advanced features can wait because having fun is essential to being a beginner DJ.
The S2 maintains the simple-yet-effective Mixer FX button, which is serious fun once you get into it.
In fact, most of the features are simplified and may disappoint more experienced users.
Roland DJ-505
The Roland DJ-505 is a feature-packed DJ controller.
However, the best feature is undoubtedly the built-in Roland TR-S drum machine and 16-step sequencer.
It features classic genre-defining kits from the TR-606 up to the TR-909.
It even features a midi output that enables you to add and use other electronic instruments.
This addition opens up a whole load of new avenues for live performances.
Make no mistake, this is a premium piece of equipment and an excellent choice for live gigs.
You get the same familiar club-style layout, and the jog wheels also sport the highly-useful color LCD screens.
you’re free to customize these to feed you essential information while performing.
However, the most obvious difference is the size and weight.
Another difference is the number of channels.
The DDJ-800 has two channels compared to the four that the DDJ-1000 sports.
However, you might adjust the resistance with the Feeling Adjust feature to get the required tightness.
