10 Best Dj Controllers 2024 in the US
From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
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Kayla CarstensBuying Guide for the Best Dj Controllers
If you’re into creating digital, electronic, or hip-hop music—either in a home studio or at parties, clubs, or other live-music venues—or if you like to provide musical accompaniment to dances or parties, then chances are you’re going to need a way to mix and play different tracks. That’s where a DJ controller comes in—it’s an essential piece of equipment for a wide variety of musicians, and if you’re looking to invest in one, here are some things to look for.
Types
- Portable: Portable controllers are an excellent choice for musicians who have to travel to different venues, but who don’t have the car space or time to transport and set up a full set of equipment every time they go to a gig.
- Computer-Based: For musicians who work out of a home studio, computer-based controllers are an excellent option. They plug directly into the computer via a USB connection, so mixed songs can easily be uploaded to the computer for storage.
- Turntable: Turntable controllers are what most people think of when they picture DJ equipment. The turntables on modern digital models may or may not work with vinyl records; when they don’t, the turntables are used to control multiple digital tracks.
- Mixers: Controllers without turntables are closer to traditional mixing boards, with knobs and sliders used in place of turntables.
What Reviewers Have to Say
Here are some of the qualities that reviewers cite as making some controllers stand out above the others:
- Compatibility: Top models are able to work with a number of different devices, including laptop computers and tablets. They also work with a wide variety of software programs, so musicians and DJs are able to tailor their use of the controller to their own preferences.
- Computer Use: Controllers generally come with instructions that tell users how much computing power they will need to operate correctly. Some models require a lot of power, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, so long as the controller gives users value for their investment—in other words, top brands might ask for a lot of processing power from the computer, but they reward users with excellent functionality.
- Sensitive Controls: Just like old-school turntables, the best digital controllers provide users with controllers that respond quickly and easily to users’ touch.
Important Features
- Ease of use: Remember that a DJ controller is a musical instrument, and like all musical instruments, it takes time and practice to play one well. If you’re just starting out, it might be a good idea to look for a simpler, scaled-down model (which will probably be less expensive), which will allow you to learn the ropes on using the machine, develop your skills, and build your confidence.
- Price: A DJ controller can be an investment, so think about how you plan on using yours. If you have a successful act already, then a higher-end model might be the thing that will put you even further over the top. If you’re just starting out, then maybe a more modest version would be the smart way to go, at least until you get on your feet a bit.
- Controls: Responsiveness is a key feature of any DJ controller, and it relates to style and experience in a number of ways. For instance, if you’re an experienced DJ, a more responsive system (with looser controls) might be best for your needs. If you’re just starting out with the equipment, you might want to look for a model with tighter controls, so that you can have an easier time handling things at first.
Top-Rated Brands
Numark: Numark is an American company that has been producing DJ equipment since 1971. Today, the company produces a range of audio equipment, including mixers, speakers, and turntables and other DJ controllers (both vinyl-based and digital).
Pioneer: Pioneer is a Japanese electronics manufacturer, and one of the worldwide leaders in audio equipment. Founded in 1938, the company produces a wide range of consumer electronics for both home and professional use.
Hercules DJ: Hercules DJ is the electronic music operation of Guillemot, a French electronics corporation. The company has been producing DJ equipment for over 30 years, and today offers a variety of hardware options for DJs and other musicians.