Start DJing: A Beginner’s Guide to Choosing Your First DJ Controller

This guide is designed to help you navigate the world of DJ controllers and find the perfect one to start your journey.

What is a DJ Controller?

A DJ controller is a single unit that combines the functions of two “decks” (the platters you use to manipulate music) and a central mixer. It’s designed to be a compact, all-in-one solution for mixing digital music. Instead of playing music from CDs or vinyl, the controller acts as a control surface for DJ software running on your laptop or mobile device.

Key Factors for Choosing Your First Controller

1. Software Compatibility

This is arguably the most important factor. The controller you choose will be designed to work seamlessly with a specific DJ software. The most popular options are:

• rekordbox: Developed by Pioneer DJ, this is considered the industry standard. Learning on a rekordbox controller can make a future transition to club-standard gear (like the CDJs you’ll find in most venues) much easier.
• Serato DJ: Widely used and known for its stability and user-friendly interface. Many controllers come with a free version called Serato DJ Lite, which is perfect for beginners.
• Traktor Pro: Known for its innovative features and excellent effects section. It’s often bundled with Native Instruments controllers.
• DJUCED: Hercules’s proprietary software, often included with their beginner-friendly controllers. It’s known for its built-in tutorials and learning guides.

Before you buy, check which software the controller is “unlocked” for and make sure you’re comfortable with that choice. Some controllers work with multiple software programs.

2. Number of Channels (Decks)

For a beginner, a 2-channel controller is all you need. This allows you to mix between two tracks at a time, which is the fundamental skill of DJing. While some controllers offer 4 channels, this is a feature you can grow into later, and it’s not necessary when you’re just starting out.

3. Budget

DJ controllers for beginners are generally affordable, ranging from under $100 to a few hundred dollars. More expensive models may have a better build quality, larger jog wheels, or more advanced features. It’s a good idea to set a budget and stick to it. Remember to factor in the cost of good headphones and speakers, as these are essential parts of your setup.

4. Key Features to Look For

• Jog Wheels: These are the platters you use to manipulate the track. For a beginner, a decent size and responsive feel are important. Smaller, cheaper controllers may have very small jog wheels, which can make things like scratching or beatmatching more difficult.
• EQ Knobs and Faders: These are your primary tools for mixing. A basic setup will include EQ knobs for low, mid, and high frequencies, as well as a channel fader and a crossfader.
• Performance Pads: These are rubber pads that allow you to trigger various functions like hot cues (markers you can jump to in a track), loops, and samples. While not strictly necessary, they’re a fun and creative tool to learn with.
• Built-in Audio Interface: Most controllers have a built-in sound card, which allows you to plug your headphones and speakers directly into the controller. This is crucial for pre-listening to your next track (cueing) and getting a high-quality sound output.

Popular Beginner DJ Controllers

Here are some popular and well-regarded beginner controllers, often recommended for new DJs:

• Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4: A successor to the very popular DDJ-400, this controller is a top recommendation for new DJs. Its layout is inspired by Pioneer’s club-standard gear, making the transition to a professional setup smoother down the line. It works with both rekordbox and Serato DJ Lite.
• Hercules DJControl Inpulse Series: Hercules has a reputation for making controllers specifically for learning. The Inpulse 200 and 300 series feature a “Beatmatch Guide” and other built-in tutorials that light up to show you what to do, making the learning process very hands-on. They also come with the DJUCED software, which has its own video tutorials.
• Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX: This controller is known for its large jog wheels with built-in displays, which show you crucial track information. It’s a great choice for those who want a more professional feel at an affordable price point. It works with Serato DJ Lite.
• Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3: If you’re interested in the Traktor ecosystem, this is the go-to beginner controller. It has a high-quality build and offers a different, but very capable, workflow.

A Note on “Standalone” vs. “Controller”

As you research, you might come across “all-in-one” or “standalone” systems. These are more expensive units that have a built-in computer and screen, meaning you don’t need a laptop to DJ. While powerful, they are not necessary for learning and are typically a significant investment for a beginner. A controller that works with a laptop is the most common and cost-effective way to start.

The Next Steps

Once you’ve chosen a controller, remember that the hardware is only half the equation. You’ll need:

• A computer or mobile device: To run your DJ software and store your music.
• DJ headphones: To listen to your next track and beatmatch.
• Speakers: To play your mix out loud.
• Music: You can use a library of MP3s or subscribe to a DJ streaming service like Beatport or SoundCloud Go+.

The most important thing is to pick a controller that inspires you to start learning. Don’t get caught up in an endless search for the “perfect” device. Any of the recommended controllers will give you the tools you need to master the fundamentals and start creating your own mixes.

You can also check out the controllers we have available to order here