DJ controllers condense key tools into lighter, smaller formats perfect for cramming in Ubers en route to gigs or toting through airport security before sets. They save DJs the cost of repeatedly buying music staples that occupy valuable physical inventory space at home.
Advanced pad configurations color outside the lines of basic mixing functions, allowing DJs to finger drum percussion or perform live remix treatments. They can also add groovebox-style drum sound layers and deep creative effects modules.
1. The Power
A DJ controller is a physical device that connects to a computer equipped with a music-mixing program and can work with software like Serato, Traktor, or Rekordbox. This software allows the DJ to control and manipulate audio files stored on the PC in real-time through an array of features. A good DJ can “scratch” the track, mix multiple songs together seamlessly, adjust audio equalizers and faders, loop and trigger drum samples and loops, and much more!
In addition to a host of playback controls that mirror traditional mixers, modern controllers typically incorporate advanced real-time remixing capabilities. By manipulating waveforms, a DJ can go well beyond linearly mixing point A to point B to improvise myriad variations on the fly. They can surgically clip and tweak song sections with killer stutter or glitch edits, or even inject live drum machines and synth lines not found in the original song.
With options scaling from simple 2-channel controllers catering to new DJs, all the way up to advanced modular rigs mimicking industry standard club setups, aspiring DJs can find themselves spoiled for choice. These self-contained bundles of convenience offer DJs the means to perform like pro with far less equipment than what a full setup of conventional mixers and CDJs would typically cost.
Unfortunately, this convenience can also be a curse when aspiring DJs make the mistake of relying solely on their DJ controller to do their job at gigs. DJs who don’t prepare adequately for their sets and have a lack of experience transitioning to traditional gear can easily run into unforeseen technical issues.
The most common problems that aspiring DJs face with their controllers are related to the audio setup. Many controllers feature a built-in audio card for sending output to the mixer. This eliminates the need for an external soundcard or 3.5mm aux cable, but it also leaves DJs at the mercy of the built-in audio card if it dies.
For this reason, it’s important for aspiring DJs to learn how to use their DJ controller and understand its basic functionality before they begin performing professionally. This will help them avoid embarrassing tech mishaps and keep their heads in the game when the music starts flying!
2. The Controls
Whether used as the primary interface with DJ software or as an addition to traditional turntables, controllers serve as a physical control surface that manipulates elements of audio files through DJ software. In doing so, DJs can craft seamless transitions and shape the sonic landscape of their performances. The jogging wheels, mixer section, transport controls, and performance pads on DJ controllers empower DJs to beatmatch tracks with ease, adjust levels and crossfades, create dynamic effects, and sculpt music in new ways.
When selecting a DJ controller, it is important to consider the features you need and how they will fit into your musical aesthetic. For example, if you plan on scratching or performing live, look for a model that has durable, high-quality jog wheels. Additionally, consider the mixer section of each DJ controller on your shortlist. If you prefer a hands-on mixing experience, look for a model with dedicated EQ controls and gain knobs that give you precise control over your mix.
DJ controllers also have pads by the platters that can be assigned to perform multiple functions. Depending on the specific model, you can use them to trigger drums or synth samples, activate different cue points for looping, and more! To get the most out of your DJ controller, consult its owner’s manual to learn what each pad can do and how to assign it. Then, be sure to experiment with your controller by triggering cue points on the fly and using its pads in new and creative ways.
3. The Software
DJ controllers control music played from DJ software running on a laptop or mobile device. Unlike a traditional turntable or CDJ setup, they don’t have built-in music storage or playback functions. In order to play, they must be connected to a computer via USB or MIDI. Consequently, they are the most popular form of DJ equipment for new DJs as they offer all the features of professional equipment at a fraction of the price. However, some older DJ’s argue that this isn’t a real form of DJing and is cheating.
Nevertheless, for beginners DJ controllers are ideal, allowing them to practice beatmatching skills and learn to mix by ear before progressing to more advanced hardware mixers or modular builds. Most entry-level DJ controllers feature two deck sections and a mixer in a single unit that mimic the look of a professional CDJ setup found in nightclubs.
As performance DJs advance, they might move up to four-channel standalone controller configurations. This allows them to juggle multiple melodies, vocals and rhythms in innovative ways that two channels can’t match. In addition, the skill ceiling rises significantly moving up to four-channel industry standards.
In addition to jog wheels, club-mixer channel strips and faders, a full range of DJ software controls can be found on most controllers. They include loop, cue and transport buttons, EQs and effects knobs per channel. Depending on the model, more advanced controllers may also include high-resolution drum pad grids imported from instruments like drum machines or MIDI keyboards that respond to velocity and pressure for creative expression.
Moreover, many of today’s DJ controllers can integrate with smartphones and streaming services, further increasing their functionality for portable DJing. This allows DJs to take their sets on the go and entertain at gigs in remote locations where there’s no access to a laptop or digital audio workstation. In such cases, DJs can use a feature called SYNC to sync the tempo of the music playing on their smartphone or stream to the controller to match the playback speed of their music library. Alternatively, DJs can use a button on their controller to skip forward and back within the playlist of their music app or streaming service to control the tempo of their music.
4. The Sound
Despite having many of the same features as mixers, DJ controllers don’t mix audio signals like stand-alone mixers do. Instead, they work in tandem with music mixing software, which is installed on a DJ computer or mobile device. DJ controllers are the accessible alternative to mixers that many newcomers use for DJing and performing at events and parties. While some older DJs criticise these devices for not being “true” DJ decks, DJ controllers have quickly become the most popular form of DJ equipment for beginners and novices.
With DJ software, you can customize and remap your DJ controller to perform functions that are not included with the original device. For example, you can connect a laptop to your DJ controller with a USB stick and use it as an external hard drive for the software to load tracks, remix files or playlists. DJs can also expand the capabilities of their controllers with additional software plugins for advanced effects, mixer control and more.
Most entry-level DJ controllers have RCA and headphone jacks to accommodate headphones and external speakers. Some also have balanced XLR ports for connecting to professional sound systems and speakers. A balanced connection is important because it uses three wires; two for signal and one for grounding, which cancels out noise on the line.
Some of the more expensive DJ controllers feature a high-quality microphone that allows DJs to sing into a mic and record themselves at the same time. This is particularly useful for DJs who like to host parties and events that require live entertainment.
Aside from microphone capabilities, most modern DJ controllers are equipped with rubber velocity-sensitive performance pads that can trigger samples and loops to create unique soundscapes during a set. Many also come with beat FX panels that allow DJs to apply rhythmic and FX-driven elements to their mixes.
In a direct comparison, DJ controllers outperform the previous generation of DJ mixers and turntables. They offer jogwheels that are much more responsive and precise, which makes scratching and cueing easier. They are also more compact and portable, making them ideal for DJs who travel a lot or who prefer to set up and play from a mobile device or laptop.
