Best DJ Controller for Beginners

As a novice DJ, it is easy to get excited when shopping for DJ controllers. There are too many things to consider, and a few too many controllers from which to choose.

So, how exactly do you go about choosing the best DJ controller for beginners? We are going to give you a comprehensive list of excellent options that are perfect for any DJ just getting to know his or her craft. But first, before you even decide which DJ controller to choose, there are some things that you need to consider.

What to consider before choosing a DJ controller

Here is a simple checklist of what you need to consider before buying a DJ controller.

Your budget

DJ controllers come in all shapes and forms, as well as prices. What kind of budget do you have? Can you afford to spend several thousand on this equipment? If not, are you looking for a bargain but still want something new? The best news is that beginner DJ Controllers are quite affordable, so there is a good chance that you can find something within your price range.

What kind of functions do you need

Your typical DJ Controller has scratch plates, performance pads, built-in audio interfaces, knobs, faders, sliders and a lot of other external functions. It is often best to start with the basics before going high-tech.

Which kind of software will you use

There are some DJ controllers that may not be fully compatible with all types of DJ software. Choose a universal controller.

With this in mind, here is our pick for the best DJ Controllers for beginners.

The best DJ controllers for beginners

Pioneer DDJ-SB

We simply can’t help but love Pioneer for the kind of durable and high-quality equipment they produce. The Pioneer DDJ-SB is a high-end DJ Controller that has a low price tag attached to it.

If you can learn the simple controls on this controller, then you will have bought a DJ controller that will last you a very long time. Not only is this controller USB powered, but it has a built-in sound card which makes it perfect for people who do not want to buy this separately. In addition to that, it offers extras such as:

• Filter fade function
• Hot cue
• Manual loop
• Sampler function

It also comes with 4 in-built performance pads on each side. As if that is not enough, it comes with an introductory version of Serato DJ, which gives you an opportunity to test drive what is probably the world’s most popular DJ software.

Behringer CMD Studio 4A

As a beginner, you will find that the Behringer is as friendly as it comes where price is concerned. Even though most of their music equipment comes at a lower price than many others on the market, Behringer still produces some of the sturdiest and long-lasting, quality equipment out there. The Behringer CMD Studio 4A is no exception to this rule. The Behringer CMD Studio 4A comes with:

• A 4-deck control
• Built-in audio interface which makes it excellent for those who want to record sounds
• Comes with Deckadance LE software, made by the same people who brought you Fruity Loops
• 6” touch sensitive platters that are a joy to scratch on
• To add to all that, it is compatible with most DJ software on the market which makes it very convenient

Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2

If you are keen on getting your hands on NI’s famous Traktor software, then you might want to consider buying the Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2. It comes fully loaded with the Traktor DJ software and has a lot of other wonderful surprises including:

• High quality performance pads
• Microphone input
• Song management with iTunes integration
• Works perfectly well with iPhone and iPad software
• With this controller, you get to try out the Traktor DJ software and see how it compares to Serato DJ

Hercules DJ Control Instinct USB

As far as affordability and overall functionality is concerned, the Hercules DJ Control Instinct USB is up there with the best of them. Although it doesn’t come with performance pads, this wonderful piece of equipment is of extremely high quality. This controller has:

• Solid platters
• A free DJ software called DJUCED

It is very well put together and quite easy to use. It is one of the best products that takes beginners into consideration.

Conclusion

As you get better at what you do, you will be faced with other choices such as what kind of software you prefer, which add-ons you need on your DJ Controller and what kind of upgrades there are in the market to make your craft better. For now, however, these four are some of the most functional, affordable and comprehensive DJ controllers available for beginners.