Best DJ Gear for Every Budget!

Summary

This video explores the best DJ controllers across various price ranges, catering to both beginners and professionals. Starting with affordable controllers under $150, the video highlights top picks like the Hercules DJ Impulse 200, Pioneer DDJ-200, and Numark Party Mix 2. It then covers mid-range controllers under $1,000, such as the DDJ-800 and Denon DJ Prime Go. Finally, the video reviews high-end controllers under $2,000, including the Rain One and Pioneer DDJ-1000. Each controller is evaluated based on features, build quality, and value for money, offering something for DJs at all levels.

Takeaways

• 😀 The best DJ controller depends heavily on your budget and needs, from beginner options to professional-grade gear.
• 🎛️ At $130, the Hercules DJ Impulse 200 is a great affordable option with essential features for mixing, but has only 4 performance pads.
• 🎧 The Pioneer DDJ-200, priced at $150, offers an entry into the Pioneer ecosystem with Rekordbox DJ software, but lacks a sound card and key buttons like trim knobs.
• 💡 The Numark Party Mix 2, at $135, offers wide compatibility with Serato DJ, Algoriddim DJ Pro, and Virtual DJ, and even includes built-in lights and a speaker.
• 📦 Controllers under $250, like the Pioneer DDJ-400, resemble professional club setups, making them a great learning tool for future upgrades.
• 🎚️ The Hercules DJ Impulse 500 ($299) includes innovative features like RGB pads and pop-out stands, offering great value despite coming with only Serato DJ Lite.
• 🔋 The Denon DJ Prime Go ($999) is a standout portable option with a 7-inch touchscreen, built-in battery, and no need for a laptop.
• 💾 Controllers under $1000 like the DDJ-800 provide professional features like LCD jog wheels, hardware effects, and a portable build.
• 🔌 High-end controllers, like the Pioneer DDJ-1000, offer full-size jog wheels, RGB pads, built-in effects, and a professional mixer section at around $2000.
• 📱 The Denon DJ Prime 4, a standalone controller with a large touchscreen, can mix internally without a laptop but is heavy to carry.

Q & A

What is the main factor in choosing the best DJ controller according to the video?

The main factor in choosing the best DJ controller depends on the buyer's budget and bank account.

What are the top three controllers under $150 mentioned in the video?

The top three controllers under $150 are: 1) Numark Party Mix 2 ($135), 2) Pioneer DDJ-200 ($150), and 3) Hercules DJ Impulse 200 ($130).

Why does the Pioneer DDJ-200 only receive a rating of 3 out of 5?

The Pioneer DDJ-200 received a 3 out of 5 rating because it lacks a sound card and certain essential buttons and knobs like browse/load buttons and trim knobs, requiring reliance on a laptop or phone.

What additional feature does the Numark Party Mix 2 have that sets it apart from other controllers under $150?

The Numark Party Mix 2 includes a built-in light show and attachable speaker, which adds to its DJ setup.

What are the limitations of the Hercules DJ Impulse 200?

The Hercules DJ Impulse 200 is limited by having only four performance pads, which is fewer compared to higher-end models.

Which DJ controller in the video offers the best value for money under $300, and why?

The Hercules DJ Impulse 500 offers the best value for money under $300 because it has a solid build, RGB performance pads, RCA and XLR outputs, and additional features like a pop-out stand, earning it a 5 out of 5 rating.

What is a key reason the Pioneer DDJ-400 is the top pick for controllers under $300?

The Pioneer DDJ-400 is the top pick because it includes Rekordbox DJ, which allows users to access all features and functions for free, and its layout is similar to professional CDJ and DJM setups.

What are the top two controllers in the under $1,000 category, and why are they rated highly?

The top two controllers are the Denon DJ Prime Go ($999) and the Pioneer DDJ-800 ($799). The Denon DJ Prime Go is rated highly for its portability, built-in battery, wireless streaming, and no need for a laptop. The Pioneer DDJ-800 is praised for being a more portable version of the DDJ-1000 with similar features.

What makes the Denon DJ Prime 4 unique in the under $2,000 category?

The Denon DJ Prime 4 is unique for its large touchscreen display and its ability to act as a standalone controller without requiring a laptop.

Why is the Pioneer DDJ-1000 considered the top pick for professional DJ controllers?

The Pioneer DDJ-1000 is considered the top pick because it closely resembles a full CDJ and DJM setup, featuring full-size jog wheels, 8 RGB performance pads, hardware-based effects, and all essential inputs and outputs needed for professional DJs.