Whether you’re an experienced DJ or new to the craft, finding the right controller can make all the difference. Start by considering what features are non-negotiable and which ones you might grow into.
Transport controls like play, pause and sync manage music playback, while cue buttons prepare songs for immediate play. Sync buttons automatically adjust the pitch and tempo of different tracks for smooth transitions.
1. Faders
Faders, also referred to as trim or gain, adjust the amount of input into a channel for mixing. DJs use this to align the volume of different tracks so they’re all at an equal level when playing. It also lets DJs tweak the amount of headroom available in their mixes for the best sound quality possible.
Modern controllers also often feature pads by the platters that can be assigned to control various functions. Whether you want to trigger drum sounds or loops, activate effects like reverb, or even set cue points, these pads give DJs extra real-time performance remixing capability without the need for external hardware.
Depending on the controller, faders can also be saved as pre-set positions that you can quickly recall and apply to your mix. This is especially handy when you’re switching between a song with vocals and one that isn’t to maintain the same volume during transitions.
The mixer section on a DJ controller manipulates levels, equalization, crossfaders, and other standard controls to emulate the functions of a hardware DJ mixer. This allows DJs to smoothly transition between songs and create customized mixes that can’t be replicated on any other device.
Unlike analog media formats that DJs had to purchase and copy onto vinyl or CD, digital DJ platforms streamline access to limitless music library selections. The ability to instantly connect to streaming catalogs through integrated services also opens up the possibility of genre-blending mega-mixes that expand the horizons of crowd-pleasing performance.
2. Jog wheels
Jog wheels are a critical piece of equipment for DJs, as they allow you to manipulate a track and create your own unique style, a typically feature jog wheels for scratching and beatmatching. Whether you’re into scratching or just want to fine-tune the speed and pitch of a song, having a responsive set of jog wheels will make all the difference.
The jog wheel is also a key part of the mixing and beatmatching process. It allows you to slide a track forward or back in time, and the pitch faders let you fine-tune your mix with precise control. With these two essential features, you’ll have everything you need to match the tempo of different tracks for seamless transitions and to synchronize them for perfect beatmatching.
Most DJ controllers feature either mechanical or motorised jog wheels. Typically, the motorised versions replicate the feel of vinyl turntables and provide resistance and inertia that makes it easier to execute advanced scratching techniques and subtle adjustments to a track’s speed. Depending on your DJing style, you may prefer one type over the other, so it’s important to research jog wheel options thoroughly before making a decision.
If you’re looking for a DJ controller with great scratch response, check that the jog wheels are designed for this purpose and have a dedicated scratch mode. Most quality DJ software applications have a number of settings that you can use to customize the jog wheel’s sensitivity and scratch curve to your preferred response and performance. You can also tweak settings like latency and Quantize values to further refine the way your movements translate into music.
3. Pads
Many DJ controllers are designed to work in tandem with specific DJ software programs. This is typically a great feature because it allows DJs to customize their equipment according to their skill levels and preferences. It also means that DJs can take advantage of advanced features that may not be available on other types of controllers, such as a pattern player for iconic drum machine sounds.
When evaluating the different features that DJ controllers offer, it is also important to consider the software they come with. Depending on the type of DJ controller you choose, software will play a large role in how well the device performs and how easy it is to use.
For example, some DJ controllers are equipped with built-in effects that allow DJs to add an extra layer of depth and dimension to their mixes. These include effects like echo, reverb, and flanger. Other DJ controllers rely on the DJ software to provide this functionality, while still others have dedicated pads that let DJs apply effects during a performance.
Finally, DJ controllers can also offer transport controls, cue buttons, and other crucial functions that allow DJs to perform music effectively. Some DJ controllers even have a display that shows track information and other pertinent data, such as elapsed time.
Whether you are looking for a basic 2-channel controller that is perfect for beginners or an advanced modular rig that mimics industry-standard club setups, there is sure to be a DJ controller that meets your needs. By evaluating the different features that DJ controllers can offer, you will be able to find the one that is right for your unique skillset and setup.
4. Inputs and outputs
DJ controllers integrate playback controls and mixing functions into a single unit. This eliminates antiquated headaches like juggling a laptop for digital music, a set of turntables to manually sync records and mixer knobs to blend audio. It also cuts cost and storage space for the DJ by storing music digitally, avoiding ongoing vinyl purchases and physical inventory.
Transport controls include essential functions, such as play and pause, while more advanced models may offer a range of extras to increase the creative potential of DJ performances. Some examples include hot cues, which are pre-set points within a song that the DJ can quickly jump to using dedicated buttons. Other features include sync controls, which automatically analyze and adjust the tempos of different tracks so they align correctly to create seamless transitions.
Other extras that are popular with DJs and can add a whole new dimension to a set include loop controls, which allow them to create and manipulate short samples and loops in real-time. Some controllers even come with built-in drum sound layers and integrated groovebox style drum machines to enable DJs to remix their tracks on the fly.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a DJ controller is its compatibility with the software DJs plan to use. Some controllers are designed to work with specific software programs, while others are compatible with a wide range of different programs. Ensure the DJ controller you choose is compatible with the program you want to use to maximize its value and functionality.
5. Software compatibility
DJ controllers simplify the traditional DJ setup by combining mixer, turntables and effects into a single unit. They also integrate seamlessly with DJ software and offer modular capabilities, letting DJs customize their equipment to fit their individual workflow.
As a result, they require less space than traditional equipment and make it easy for beginners to get started. Choosing the right DJ controller depends on your needs and skill level, so it’s important to consider what features are non-negotiable for you as well as what you might grow into as your skills develop. You should also consider the build quality and durability of the controller, as well as its compatibility with different software options.
If you’re unsure which DJ controller to choose, ask friends and colleagues for recommendations or borrow one for a trial period. This will give you the opportunity to test it out in your own setup and see how it fits into your workflow. It’s also a good idea to read user reviews and watch YouTube tutorials on the specific DJ controller you’re considering.
The most important factor when selecting a DJ controller is its compatibility with your preferred DJ software. By working in synergy with software like Serato, Traktor or Rekordbox, DJ controllers transform music libraries into an easily navigable database with advanced real-time creative manipulation capabilities. This is far beyond the linear mixing of track A to B that vinyl decks and mixers provide, allowing DJs to improvise myriad variations and remix songs in unprecedented ways. It’s also possible to achieve surgical clipping, killer stutter and glitch edits or intelligently inject live drum machines and synth lines not part of original songs thanks to integrated music manipulation tools on a DJ controller.
