Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional DJ, researching for a DJ controller can be a painstaking process with some DJ controllers look more like spaceship cockpits than musical devices.
With so much choice available we aim to help you narrow down your search and find the perfect DJ controller for your needs and price range.
A professional DJ will need a device of high quality with extensive connectivity and feature capabilities.
A hobbyist DJ may be more determined to get the best bang for your buck.
Below we have compiled a list of what we think are the best DJ controllers on the market today along with reviews to help you choose.
Table of Contents
Best DJ Controllers With Reviews
Here’s our list of some of the top-rated controllers we found on the market.
1. Pioneer DDJ-1000 DJ Controller – Best Value For Money
Overview:
- Deck Control: 4/Dual | Channels: 4
- Inputs: 2 x RCA Stereo (Line) 2 x Mic In (XLR & 1/4″) 2 x RCA (Line/Phono)
- Outputs: 1 x Headphone Monitor (1/4 & 1/8″) 2 x Master (RCA/XLR) 1 x Booth (TRS)
- USB: 2 x USB B Ports
- Software: Rekordbox (Fully Licensed)
- Audio Resolution: 24 bit/44.1 kHz
- Dimensions W/H/D: 708mm, 27.8″ / 73.4mm, 2.8″ / 361.4mm, 14.2″
- Weight: 6KG
To start us off we have DDJ 1000 by Pioneer, the device offers a club-style layout, inheriting features from Pioneers professional CDJ players and DJM mixers, imitating the feel of playing on Pioneers NXS2 set-up
The DDJ 1000’s chassis is mainly constructed of plastic but there is some metal present around the platter area adding a solid and professional feel to the device.
The jog wheels are impressive and super responsive. They are mechanical which means they require pressure to activate, unlike the more common touch-sensitive jog wheels. Pioneer has also added jog adjust controls depending on your mixing style. There are small LCD displays in the centre displaying important information (BPM, track information, waveforms).
The mixer is a 4 channel mini DJM-900 mixer with 4 deck capability, each channel has a 3 band EQ with dedicated trim knobs and VU meters to keep a check on your volume levels.
Pioneer has done something really cool with the DDJ 1000, they have two effect sections, one of which is built into the controller itself. The four colour sound FX consists of; Dub Echo, Pitch, Noise and Filter, whilst there is a beat FX knob consisting of 14 different effects; Echo, Delay, Low Cut Echo, Transformer, Reverb, Spiral, Jet, Flanger, Slip Roll, Roll, Phaser, Pitch and two Mobius effects.
There are 4 channel faders, one for each channel, along with a quality Magvel crossfader that Pioneer say can handle up to 10 million movements.
The pitch faders on the DDJ 1000 are excellent, they are long, smooth and precise. Pitch faders are sometimes sacrificed for space which is understandable, so it’s pleasing to see Pioneer including longer, more precise pitch faders as we feel it dramatically helps you in learning and mastering beatmatching manually.
There are 8 performance pads below each jog wheel with more features being accessed via the software. These are used for setting hot cues, beat jumps, pad FX 1,2 (this is where you can use Rekordbox to set the desired effects and parameters) and a sampler. By using the shift button, you can access a secondary set of functions.
PROS
- Full-Size Jog Wheels With HD Screens
- Feels Professional, Inspired by the CDJ Nexus 2000s
- DJM-900 Inspired Mixer & Magvel Crossfader
- Professional Look & Feel
- 4 Channel 4 Deck Control
- Comes With Rekordbox Full License
- Great Lightweight Controller For Easy Transport
- Fully Loaded Controller With Extensive FX Options
CONS
- It doesn’t offer stand-alone capabilities, which means dragging your laptop to every event
- Only compatible with Rekordbox, it would really be a hard DJ Controller to beat if it was compatible with other software like Serato or Traktor
All the controllers on this list are great in their own way, the DDJ 1000 is no different. The CDJ2000NXS2 inspired platters and mini DJM-900 mixer make this controller one of the best on the market, it’s solid and professional in use and is extremely similar in layout and feel to the professional Nexus setups. The price of the DDJ1000 is also very reasonable for such a beast controller.
Want to know more? Click here to see our full review on the Pioneer DDJ 1000
2. Denon DJ Prime 4 DJ Controller – Best On The Market
Overview:
- Deck Control: 4 | Channels: 4
- Inputs: 4 x RCA Stereo (Line/Phono) 2 x Mic In (XLR & 1/4″) 2 x RCA (Line/Phono)
- Outputs: 1 x Headphone Monitor (1/4 & 1/8″) 2 x Master (RCA/XLR) 1 x Booth (TRS)
- USB: 4 x USB A | 1 x USB B Ports
- Software: Serato DJ Pro / Engine Software
- Audio Resolution: 24-bit /44.1kHz
- Dimensions W/H/D: 728.47mm, 28.68″ / 496.82mm, 19.56″ / 103.63mm, 4.08″
- Weight: 9.7KG
Next up we have the DJ Prime 4 controller by Denon.
Denon has produced their ultimate controller with the Prime 4, this controller is phenomenal and certainly the most powerful controller on the market as of today. We are thrilled this has finally landed!
We were so close to giving the device top spot, it is a feature-packed beast, but we found the Pioneer DDJ 1000 better on price, although it isn’t quite as feature-packed as the Prime 4 the DDJ 1000 is still a great controller for its price and for that reason it has kept the number 1 spot.
Like the MCX 8000, the Denon Prime 4 is a beautifully designed device with a nice metal finish, this adds a solid and professional feel to the device. It is slightly bulky weighing 9.7kg but is still relatively easily transported, even more so with a controller case/bag.
One of the standout features of the Prime 4 is the device has true standalone capability. Once your files are on the Engine software there is no need for a laptop at all, you are able to use a small USB stick to load your music library instead.
Your music is managed Denon’s own Engine Prime software which is a library management app, very similar to Pioneers Rekordbox. This allows you to import your tracks, create playlists, add artwork or edit the track information. You can then save these to a USB stick to be plugged into the Prime 4 and used in standalone mode.
Located centrally at the top of the device is a beautiful high-resolution screen displaying an array of important information such as BPM, track time, sync status and more. The screen is a touchscreen with a QWERTY keyboard for search functions. The screen has two operating modes; Library mode and waveforms.
The mixer is 4 channel with 4 deck capability, which means 4 external devices can be connected such as turntables or CDJs. Each channel has a full 3 band EQ with dedicated cue buttons, gain knobs and VU monitoring. There is also a master VU meter located centrally above the headphone controls.
Found on the deck section are two beautiful 5″ jog wheels, both sporting a mini screen in the centre displaying album art or a customisable logo choice of your own. The only issue with the jogs is they are slightly on the small side, apart from that they are responsive in the mix and are weighted perfectly.
As found with the Denon MCX8000, the pitch faders on the Prime 4 are long, smooth and precise something we feel is invaluable on any piece of DJ equipment as this can make a huge difference to the sound of your mix when beatmatching by ear.
8 rubberised performance pads per deck are located at the bottom of the deck section, these are used for hot cues, loops, rolls and slicer options. In the mix, the pads feel good and responsive.
PROS
- Large Beautiful Customisable Screen Displaying All Relevant Information
- 4 Deck Standalone Capability
- Great Build Quality & Design
- Extensive FX Options
- Long, Smooth & Precise Pitch Faders
- Display In The Centre Of Jog Wheels
- Great Value
CONS
- Engine Prime Software Is Not Great
- Slightly Bulky
We can’t stress enough how good this controller is, it is so powerful and has been designed to perfection. The components used throughout the device are solid, it has 4 channels a beautiful screen with extensive connectivity and feature options. We know the device is expensive but if money isn’t too much of an obstacle we don’t suggest looking any further than this beast.
Check Out Our Full Review On The Denon Prime 4 Here!
3. Denon MCX8000 DJ Controller
Overview:
- Deck Control: 4 | Channels: 4
- Inputs: 2 x RCA Stereo (Line) 2 x RCA (Line/Phono) 2 x Mic In (XLR &1/4″) 2 x RCA (Line/Phono)
- Outputs: 1 x Headphone Monitor (1/4 & 1/8″) 2 x Master (RCA/XLR) 1 x Booth (TRS)
- USB: 1 x USB A Port
- Software: Serato DJ Pro / Engine Software
- Audio Resolution: 24-bit/44.1kHz
- Dimensions W/H/D: 728mm, 28.68″ / 70.10mm, 2.76″ / 432.82mm, 17.04″
- Weight: 8.34KG
Next up we have Denons beast the MCX8000 DJ Controller. This was Denon’s flagship controller until the introduction of the highly anticipated Prime 4.
The device comes bundled with the highly regarded Serato DJ. This software has been around for a long time and you will be hard tasked finding better software.
The controller is constructed of metal which gives the device a solid and professional feel, and certainly beats the plasticky feel you get off most controllers. Being metal makes it tough and durable which is good for the mobile DJ, it also makes it slightly heavy which isn’t good for the mobile DJ, that being said a nice quality holdall bag and your problem is solved.
The Denon MCX 8000 Controller comes boasting an array of great features and capabilities, along with being a standalone controller – Which means no taking your laptop everywhere you go, can just take a USB or an SSD disc with all your tracks on, this is great if you’re a mobile DJ.
The MCX8000 has 2 striking screens showing all the relevant track information needed such as; BPM, Track time, waveforms and more.
There are 2 x 5.2″ touch capacitive, highly responsive aluminium jog wheels that look great visually and feel solid in the mix.
The mixer is a 4 channel mixer with 4 deck capability, the layout feels spacious which is quite rare for a controller and each channel offers a full 3 band EQ with individual filter knobs on each channel. Located at the bottom of the mixer is a durable and quality crossfader.
8 rubber performance pads per deck for all features such as cues, sampling, slicing, beat rolls and more. The rubberised pads feel good to touch and are responsive in the mix.
The pitch faders on the MCX8000 are long, smooth and precise, this is invaluable when learning to beatmatch manually, something we feel is fundamental to learning and becoming a good DJ. A sync button is available, this syncs the tracks BPM via the software.
PROS
- Has both laptop and standalone capabilities
- Extensive Input & Output potentials
- Solid, Professional build quality
- Two HD screens displaying all relevant track information
- Comes with Serato DJ
CONS
- Most pad functions will NOT work in standalone mode
- The screen sometimes has some freezing issues
- Denon’s engine software needs adjustments and improvements
The MCX 8000 for the price is a feature-packed beast. This monster has a standalone function, comes bundled with Serato DJ, has built-in HD screens, has an overall durable and professional build quality with extensive input and output capabilities. The Denon MCX 8000 boasts a high-quality mixer, long pitch faders and responsive jog wheels with beautiful LCD screens, making this for the price one of the most flexible and feature-packed controllers on the market today.
Want to know more? Read our full review for the Denon MCX 8000 here!
4. Pioneer DDJ-RZX DJ Controller
Overview:
- Deck Control: 4 | Channels: 4
- Inputs: 2 x RCA (Phono) 4 x RCA (CD/Line) 2 x Mic In (XLR & 1/4″)
- Outputs: 2 x Headphone Monitor (1/4″ & Mini-Jack) 2 x Master (RCA/XLR) 1 x Booth (TRS)
- USB: 2 X USB B Ports
- Software: Rekordbox (Fully Licensed)
- Audio Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
- Dimensions W/H/D: 945mm, 37.2″ / 119.7mm, 4.7″ / 547mm, 21.5″
- Weight: 15.8KG
Here we have the DDJ-RZX by Pioneer, another fantastic controller, this feature-packed animal is, without doubt, one of the best controllers on the market today. Pioneer has taken inspiration for the RZX from their professional nexus range, from the construction and layout to the buttons and controls. High-quality parts and components have been used throughout on this DJ controller, adding to the professional feel the controller gives.
Unfortunately, this DJ controller is not a standalone controller which means taking your laptop with you to gigs and venues.
Like many Pioneer controllers within this price range, the build quality on the DDJ RZX is phenomenal. The RZX has been inspired in design by the professional industry-standard Nexus 2000 series.
The device is bulky, coming in heavier than other controllers at 15.8kg, this makes the device harder to transport than other lighter devices.
Built with 3 stunning 7″ LCD screens offering both video and audio playback. The screens also display all relevant track information such as BPM, track position, waveforms, music library, album cover art and more. For more controllers with screens, check out our guide here!
The DDJ RZX boasts large mechanical, pressure-responsive jog wheels inspired by Pioneers professional Nexus range. As the name suggests, the jog wheels are pressure activated rather than the more conventional touch-sensitive jogs found on most controllers, we cover this in our more extensive review below.
The mixer has 4 channels with 4 deck capability, having this capability allows you to connect external devices such as turntables or CDJs. Each channel has a 3 band EQ with individual trim and filter knobs.
The device has upgraded the FX section from its predecessor the RZ. The RZX has extensive FX capabilities, you can apply the sound colour and beat FX simultaneously whilst using the release FX to reset them instantly, you can also add sub parameters to the sound colour FX, we cover this more extensively in our comprehensive review.
8 multi-coloured pad section with an extensive FX selection; The pads have multiple functions; a hot cue, beat jump pad FX1, pad FX2, slicer, slicer loop, a sampler, and a velocity sampler. The secondary functions are activated via the Shift button.
The pitch faders on the DDJ RZX are good, Pioneer has kept the faders long, smooth and precise. Having longer faders help with learning and mastering the art of beatmatching.
PROS
- 3x Superb HD Screens displaying all relevant track information
- Both video and audio capabilities
- CDJ/DJM professional feel and for a fraction of the price
- Extensive FX selection
- High-quality look, feel and built quality
- An array of connectivity options
CONS
- The unit is heavy at 15.8kg and quite bulky making it harder for transport
- Not a standalone controller, a laptop will still be needed to use the controller
- Device Is High Priced Due To The Quality Of the Unit
The bottom line with the DDJ-RZX is this, its hands down one of the best controllers money can buy.
The device has taken inspiration in design and layout from their Nexus series from the mechanical jog wheels to the 4 channel DJM inspired mixer.
The device offers extensive FX capabilities, long pitch faders and a Magvel crossfader.
The price is a little off-putting, but if it’s within your budget and you’re looking for an all-out DJ controller that will last and stand the test of time and push your creative boundaries this device is for you.
Want to know more? Read our full review for the DDJ-RZX here!
5. Numark NS7III DJ Controller
Overview:
- Deck Control: 4 | Channels: 4
- Inputs: 4 x RCA (Line/Phono) 2 x Mic In (XLR & 1/4″)
- Ouputs: 1 x Headphone Monitor (1/4 & 1/8″) 2 x Master (RCA/XLR) 1 x Booth (RCA)
- USB: 2 x USB A |1 x USB B port
- Software: Serato DJ
- Dimensions W//H/D: 754.8mm, 29.7″ / 121.92mm, 4.8″ / 462.28mm, 18.2″
- Weight: 14.32KG
Here we have Numark’s flagship controller – The NS7iii. The controller comes with the highly regarded Serato DJ software, this is the pro version which offers a lot more in features and functionality than the lite version. Serato DJ software itself can cost a pretty buck, which is always worth keeping in mind when making a purchase.
The build quality on the NS7iii is excellent, quality metal components have been used throughout this device which gives the device a professional feel but in turn, makes it heavier and harder than other controllers to transport to and from clubs and parties. That being said the device is an excellent, well built, controller.
Located at the top of the controller you can see 3 stunning LCD screens 2 of which display the relevant track information such as BPM, waveforms etc, and the middle screen gives you a dedicated view of your track library.
The Numark has something very unique that no controller has matched as of yet, the 7″ ultra-high torque spinning platters that come with real vinyl and slipmats that feel amazing and the absolute closest thing you’ll get to a real vinyl feel without the need to go for a more expensive DVS set up.
8 velocity-sensitive pads made by and found on well-respected hardware brand Akai’s MIDI controllers. These are located below the jog wheels and offer a range of modes and capabilities; hot cues, auto loop, loop roll, sampler and slicer along with extensive customisable FX options.
Although the mixer section is slightly small, all of the components feel quality when in use, the mixer is a 4 channel mixer with each channel having its own 3 band EQ with full gain controls and VU meters.
The crossfader feels sturdy and durable, making it great for scratching. The pitch faders are long and precise for beatmatching by ear, a sync button is also available in order for the software to match the BPM for you.
PROS
- 7″ High Torque Motorised Jog Wheels
- 3 HD Screens Displaying Track Information and Libarys
- Akai MPC Performance Pads with Extensive Features and Functionalities
- 4 Channel Controller w/ Serato DJ Pro
CONS
- It is bulky, which makes it more difficult in transport
The Numark NS7iii is in our opinion one of the best controllers on the market, the jog wheels with the vinyl record and slipmats really tap into the creative art of DJing and scratching. Great performance pads, excellently built and feels professional to use. If scratching and vinyl DJing appeals to you then you really don’t need to look any further than this baby right here!
Check Out Our Comprehensive Review Here!
6. Pioneer XDJ-RX2 DJ Controller
Overview:
- Deck Control: 2 | Channels: 2
- Inputs: 2 x RCA (Phono) 2 x RCA (Line) 2 x Mic In (XLR & 1/4″ TRS Jack) 1 x AUX (RCA)
- Outputs: 2 x Headphone Monitor (1/4″ & Mini-Jack) 2 x Master (RCA/XLR) 1 x Booth (TRS)
- USB: 2 x USB A | 1 x USB B Ports
- Software: Rekordbox Fully Licensed
- Dimensions W/H/D: 728mm, 28.6″ / 108.4mm, 4.2″ / 443.8mm, 17.4″
- Weight: 9.1KG
Here we have the Pioneer XDJ RX2, an upgrade from its predecessor the XDJ RX which was released in 2015. Pioneer has taken the RX and made some small but sweet upgrades to produce another monster controller by Pioneer- the XDJ RX2.
The controller comes bundled with Rekordbox fully licensed, great software but unfortunately as with many Pioneer controllers they are not compatible with any other software such as Serato or Traktor.
Even though the RX2 has an all-plastic chassis, the Nexus inspired layout and high build quality adds a solid and professional feel when in the mix.
The device weighs 9.1kg and makes it less mobile than some other controllers but the device can operate as a standalone so that removes the need for a laptop, this can drastically help the mobile DJ when transporting equipment to and from clubs and venues.
Pioneer has updated the LCD screens from the RX to an HD QWERTY touch-sensitive screen displaying all the relevant track information, the displays on the RX2 are as good if not better than most controllers with screens.
The 2 channel mixer is inspired by and has taken features from Pioneer’s standalone DJM mixer, the mixer on the RX2 is good although not having 4 channels can limit you as you progress and learn and enhance your skills.
The 5.5″ touch-capacitive jog wheels are large and super responsive, it would have been nice if Pioneer installed mechanical jog wheels like the jogs found on the professional range, that being said they are still excellent and do their job efficiently.
Pioneer has introduced 8 quality LED-backlit rubberised performance pads with a range of features and capabilities.
Pioneer has upgraded the screen from its predecessor the RX and installed a 7″ HD QWERTY touch-sensitive screen displaying all the relevant track information.
The crossfader feels sturdy and durable, the device has long smooth and precise pitch faders making it easier to beat-match by ear.
The RX2 comes with the Rekordbox full license, Rekordbox is a great software programme it’s just unfortunate it’s not compatible with any other software if you have become used to Serato or Traktor.
PROS
- 8 Rubberised Performance Pads Per Deck
- Responsive 5.5″ Touch Capacitive Jog Wheels
- Excellent Build Quality
- Inspired by the Nexus Series
- 7″ Touch Sensitive QWERTY Keyboard
CONS
- Pioneer has made incremental improvements on the RX, that being said the improvements are noticeable and helpful
- Screens are slow in response time
- Only Supports Rekordbox
There we have it, the Pioneer XDJ RX2. This controller is one of the best on the market and is great value for money. Inspired by the Nexus system it has a professional feel and makes the transition to a professional set up even easier, you could get yourself full Nexus 700 CDJ set up with a standalone mixer but it will be more expensive and not as good as this beast.
Final Thoughts
All of the DJ controllers above are excellent and professional devices, they all have their pros and cons but you won’t be disappointed with any of the controllers listed above.
If you’re looking for a DJ controller that can do it all we would recommend the Denon Prime 4 or the Pioneer RZX.
Then we have a personal favourite, the Numark NS7III. This controller is fantastic and emulates the feel of turntables like no other device on the market.
If you’re more price-driven we would recommend the Pioneer DDJ-1000 which is why it has taken our top spot as we really feel its the best value for money.
If you’re working on a budget and are looking for low-cost controllers, be sure to check out our buying guide to the best DJ controllers under $500.
Last but certainly not least is the Numark NS7III, this controller is a fantastic and emulates the feel of turntables like no other device on the market, this is a personal favourite of ours.
DJ Controller Buying Guide
There are a few important things we believe you should consider before purchasing your DJ Controller.
The Software
Your chosen DJ software is installed on to your laptop/PC, the controller is then connected to the laptop/PC via a USB which allows the device to control the computer software on the laptop, essentially making the controller a MIDI controller; Midi is short for Musical Instrument Digital Interface. It’s a protocol that allows computers, musical instruments and other hardware to communicate.
Most controllers you find will come bundled with DJ software such as Serato Pro, Serato Lite, Traktor, Virtual DJ or Pioneers own Rekordbox.
Pioneer controllers used to come with Serato and some still do, but since they created their own Software most controllers by Pioneer now come with Rekordbox.
Whilst it is possible to map your DJ controller to any software i.e Denon to Traktor or Pioneer to Serato, it is slightly complicated to do but tutorials mapping downloads are available. We do recommend sticking with the software that comes bundled with your controller, the device will work straight out of the box saving any unnecessary inconvenience.
Making The Choice
We don’t think there is any right or wrong choice when it comes to choosing software and is mostly down to personal preferences;
- Are you currently using a certain software e.g Serato and don’t want to relearn another software? Although this does reduce the choice you have to some degree, it is possible to connect any software to your controller via mapping.
- If you’re just starting out you’re in a good position, you can focus more on the controller you want as well as the software it comes with.
- Except for the general interface and layout, all DJ software is virtually the same, they all allow you to mix tracks together with extra features, functionalities and FX.
Are You A Mobile DJ?
Will you be taking your controller around to parties or clubs? Most controllers are designed to be more compact and lightweight than a full set up, still, some are a lot chunkier than others and would be much harder to transport than a more lightweight controller; The RZX weighing 15.8kg compared to the DDJ 1000 weighing at 6kg for example.
Is The Device A Standalone Unit Or Does It Require A Laptop/PC?
Another thing to consider is if the controller is a standalone unit or requires a laptop/PC to work the controller.
- If like most controllers your device requires a laptop you will have to take both your controller and laptop wherever you go.
- The luxury of having a standalone controller is that you can save all your music to a USB stick, plug it straight into the controller and voila, all your tracks are now locked and loaded.
Connectivity
When choosing a controller its important to check out the input and outputs on your DJ controller, the more options the better. The majority of controllers come with a microphone input and USB ports.
Inputs such as:
- Line
- Phono
- Digital
- USB
- Microphone
Outputs Such As:
- Master Out
- Booth
- Headphones
- MIDI Out
The number of inputs and outputs can differ from one controller to another, the more inputs and outputs you have the more functions and capabilities the DJ Controller will provide, for example with a MIDI out port you can connect external hardware e.g CDJ’s, turntables or a drum machine.
The USB is what allows the computer and the controller to communicate.
Channels
The number of channels on a DJ Controller or any mixer dictates the number of tracks you can control independently of one another.
In the main, most controllers come either with 2 or 4 channels with the more entry-level controllers being 2 channel and the more advanced coming with 4 channels which allows more creativity but is, of course, harder than mixing just two tracks. Note: Most controllers come with 4 deck capability dependant on your software – Requires using the software to switch between – So we recommend that if you want to mix 4 tracks buy a 4 channel controller.
Jog Wheels
The jog wheels are vital components to a DJ controller, this is what gives you full control over the mix, the jog wheels allow you to speed the track up, slow the track down and manipulate in an unlimited amount of ways, fading tracks and scratching tracks for you hip hop DJs out there. There are a few different kinds of jog wheels;
- Capacitive Jog Wheels – Found on most controllers on the market, these are touch-sensitive and super responsive. They’re sturdy due to the lack of moving parts in comparison to other types of jog wheels. The downside to these type of jog wheels is as they are so sensitive and responsive it is easy to trigger the jog wheel thus stopping and ruining your mix.
- Mechanical Jog Wheels – Mechanical jog wheels are what you’d find on Pioneers professional range, some controllers have them but it is quite rare. Unlike the touch capacitive wheels, mechanical jog wheels require some pressure to activate eliminating the accidentally triggering the jog wheel.
- Motorised Jog Wheels – Features a rotating motorised platter and recreates the feeling of turntables, although this is a completely different way of DJing to using CDJ’s it is still so much fun along with a full DVS being available nowadays.
Pitch Faders
In music pitch and tempo are closely related, and to beatmatch manually is to be able to match both tracks BPMs together. Pitch faders are a vital component in achieving that, they are used to adjust the pitch/tempo of the tracks in order to match them both together to create a clean and crisp sounding transition.
A lot of controllers, especially more budget controllers tend to sacrifice the pitch faders and shorten them down which makes them more sensitive and thus harder to master the art.
We really advise when looking for a controller to keep an eye on the length of the pitch faders, the type of jog wheels whether they are mechanical or touch-sensitive, which software the controller comes bundled with and how many channels the mixer has.
For more information on how to use a controller, check out our guide here!
Final Thoughts
All of the above controllers we have picked are excellent and what we believe to be the best on the current market, they, of course, each have their own advantages and disadvantages which we have covered in individual more in-depth reviews.
As I’m sure you can tell we have included more Pioneer controllers than any others and the reason for this is Pioneer has been leading innovation and technology in the dance world for some time now, with their products being the industry standard. We have included some other brands that we feel rival and push the Pioneer controllers including Denon and Numark.
Overall we think each controller can offer each DJ something different depending on the style of your DJing;
If you are a scratch or prefer the motorised Jog wheels, the Numark NS7iii could be the one for you.
If you like to play around with the FX and push the capabilities of the controller, you may go for the Denon MCX8000 or the Prime 4
We really love the DDJ 1000, excellent value for your money with this controller, quality components have been used throughout the device, it feels good in the mix and is great on price.
The DDJ RZX and the XDJ RX2 are amazing controllers, based on Pioneers professional range – The Nexus. The controllers certainly feel as though they are. Slightly bulky but two complete animals in the controller world. If you have an extra buck lying around you will not be disappointed.
We really hoped this review has helped you on your journey!