Released in 2013, Ableton’s Push was the hardware that turned its Live DAW into a playable instrument (Ableton never liked to think of it as a controller) and, through various iterations, it's been gracing stages and studios ever since.

The original Push was actually built in collaboration with Akai Pro – Ableton had previously worked with Akai on its APC40 and APC20 Live control surfaces – and was designed to bring something different and more integrated to the market.

However, it was actually the brainchild of Jesse Terry, now Ableton’s Head of Hardware, and in an interview with Powerhouse Museum, he’s now revealed that his original prototypes were built out of Lego.

Discussing his inspiration for the device, he says: “The prototype of Push is like the way I work with samples: I chopped up a bunch of other products and sampled the parts of them that I wanted.”

Terry recalls that he first heard about Live while writing for a music magazine, and was immediately impressed by its flexibility.

“The way you could stretch audio and move it around like a rubber band. I was like, ‘This is the thing that I've been missing.’”

Of Push’s origins, he says: “I bought an electric saw and just started chopping things up to see if I could glue them together and combine their outputs, merge them into one thing. Push was reconciling those worlds of using my hands, playing rhythmically, playing with nuance and swing and the world of the computer which can process audio in such cool and different ways.”

It appears that Terry took particular inspiration from Novation. Looking at the prototype, the pad section is powered by a Novation Launchpad, another official Live controller that was released in 2009, and the upper controls are lifted from a Novation Remote SL Compact. It appears that the Lego was used primarily to house the controls to the left and right of the pads.

“The Lego prototype went through many, many phases of moving buttons around, trying to figure out what was the right ergonomics for it, figuring out where and what buttons we wanted to have to do the different functions,” says Terry. “And it was playful and not permanent. And that's what allowed us to go through so many iterations to get the right thing.”

Push became such a success that it spawned two successors, and the latest version, Push 3, is also available in a standalone configuration that works without a computer.

In 2024, meanwhile, Ableton released Move, another standalone device that’s designed as a portable musical sketchpad.

What is it?

Arturia’s KeyStep range is a line of controller keyboards with a step-sequencer focus, and the new KeyStep 37 mk2 is the latest model. Offering a more performance-focused alternative to their KeyLab controller keyboards, the KeyStep devices are designed for use in both standalone and DAW-based setups.

Although visually similar to the KeyLab controllers, closer inspection reveals a bunch of features aimed at sequence creation. Meanwhile, on the back, support for CV, MIDI and USB formats means you’re all set to simultaneously control multiple types of devices.

Let’s take a look at the layout. The KeyStep 37 mk2 is built around a quality slimline keybed with velocity and aftertouch. On the left-hand side, you get ribbon-style modulation and pitch bend alongside octave shift and note Hold. A further blue Shift button provides additional functionality.

The top panel, which has been considerably reworked since the previous version, is centred on a mini OLED screen with push button rotary encoder. You’ll find various RGB backlit buttons on either side of the screen, and 4 rotary encoders on the right. Meanwhile, a line of 39 note-indicating LEDs accompanies the keys.

Back panel connectivity includes MIDI in and out, 4 CV outputs (pitch, gate, mod1 and mod2), pulse synchronisation (in and out), USB-C, sustain pedal input and on/off switch. Power is provided either via your USB-C connection or by using a regular USB-C power supply (this needs to provide 5V at 100mA). Alas, there’s no included PSU, but you do get a rather nice 2m Arturia-branded USB-A to USB-C cable.

Also included are licences for Ableton Live Lite and Arturia’s Analog Lab Intro instrument. Overall product management and activation is handled using Arturia Software Centre, and firmware upgrades and many device parameters can be set using Arturia’s MIDI Control Centre desktop app.

Performance

Much like its predecessor, KeyStep 37 mk2 is a single-track sequencer with step and real-time options and sequence and arpeggiator modes. However, with the removal of the physical arp and sequencer knobs, from an operational perspective, things have changed quite a bit. Now, buttons work alongside the OLED-based menu, which provides access to both settings and real-time parameter feedback. Meanwhile, holding down some buttons gains access to secondary functions. Global functions such as clock and transport mode (main/secondary) are now menu settings rather than real panel dip switches. Impressively, the 4 rotary encoders work with both the MIDI CC and Control buttons.

For MIDI CC output, the encoders have 4 banks, cycled through using the MIDI CC button. The Control button provides quick encoder access to parameters for the Sequence, Arp, Mutate and Chord modes once they are selected. The Shift button adds a further layer of settings and options across all the buttons, keyboard keys and rotary encoders. Thankfully, labelling is good and coupled with the OLED feedback and task-specific RGB button backlighting, it’s pretty easy to see what’s happening.

Much like the latest KeyStep mk2, the KeyStep 37 mk2 has some excellent creative features that help you enhance and manipulate patterns. For example, the Shift button, combined with the pitch and modulation ribbons, accesses the Gate and Spice features, respectively. The latter adds pattern variation with an optional dice feature (3 taps of the modulation strip) for randomisation of the outcome. However, of most interest is the Mutate feature, which is based on Arturia’s Minifreak option.

Designed to add a degree of musical randomness, it affects note length, swing, pitch and polyphony and can be applied repeatedly to sequences and arpeggios, but also completely reset back to the starting point. On the KeyStep 37 mk2 Mutate has extended functionality via the 4 encoders, allowing you to set parameters to influence the outcome. These vary slightly depending on which arp or sequence mode you’re using, but in essence, you have control over things such as probability, randomness, polyphony and density.

Verdict

The KeyStep 37 mk2, much like its smaller sibling, is an excellent upgrade and great fun to use. If you can afford the extra spend, the new encoders and particularly their excellent implementation make this the more desirable unit.

Hands-on demos

Arturia

Alternatives

Specifications

NAMM 2026: Rane has launched the System One, a new flagship all-in-one DJ system that boasts motorised turntable-style platters and the ability to mix between tracks from physical storage devices and streaming services.

While standalone DJ systems are nothing new, most products on the market, particularly at the top end, tend to be aimed at club DJs, opting for CDJ-style jogwheels and multi-deck control. Offering something of an alternative, the System One takes its cues from Rane’s popular One MkII controller, which is an established favourite with scratch and open-format DJ – ie those that tend not to stick to a specific genre or tempo.

The key selling point of the Rane One, carried across here, is its 7.2-inch motorised platters. Although smaller than a proper turntable, these aluminium high-torque platters spin and respond like the real thing, including a top surface that emulates the look and feel of a vinyl record.

Like its controller counterpart, the System One’s platters are accompanied by brightly-backlit performance pads that can be used for hot cues, sample triggering, beat rolls and stem mixing. Eight OLED displays sit above these pads and provide visual feedback on things such as cue points, assigned samples and roll divisions.

The mixer section has two channels, each with a three-band EQ, blended using the Mag Four crossfader and Precision Feel channel faders.

Where the System One most obviously differs from its controller predecessor is in the inclusion of a central 7-inch HD touchscreen. This is the primary way the user interacts with the onboard OS, with colourful waveform displays along with a host of easily-accessible features for library management, effects control and mixer settings.

The System One runs on Engine DJ, the embedded DJ platform originally developed by Rane’s InMusic stablemate Denon. Although it started life as an OS for Denon DJ gear, Engine DJ has grown into a comprehensive cross-platform app, which runs on desktop as well as inside a variety of Denon and Numark devices.

Part of the System One’s overt pitch for open-format DJs lies in its so-called OmniSource architecture, which is designed to make it easy to mix with tracks from a variety of sources, whether they be physical drives or cloud streaming. The System One is WiFi-equipped and capable of streaming music from Apple Music, Amazon Music Unlimited, TIDAL, Beatport, Beatsource, SoundCloud Go+, and Dropbox.

The System One will also offer Serato DJ and Algoriddim DJ compatibility, both of which have Spotify integration. System One users also get an unlock of Serato DJ Pro included.

The internal OS also allows for some impressive effects features. The unit offers over 25 internal main effects that can be activated by a pair of paddles in the mixer section. Alongside these, there are five rotary-controlled sweep effects, 10 touchscreen effects and four fader effects.

The System One has a comprehensive selection of connectivity, including XLR and RCA main outputs, as well as ¼-inch booth and Bluetooth outputs. On the input side, the System One has a switchable Bluetooth/RCA aux with front-panel control along with two XLR combo mic inputs with EQ, echo, reverb, talkover, and anti-feedback functions. There is also a built-in 10-band EQ for both main and booth outputs.

“With Rane System One, DJs no longer have to choose between the trusted feel of motorized platters and the freedom that a standalone DJ unit provides,” said Morgan Donoghue, VP Marketing, DJ Brands at inMusic. “System One embodies Rane’s legacy of innovation, delivering the first device of its kind and setting a new benchmark for professional DJ performances.”

The Rane System One is out now, priced at $2,499/€2,499/£2,199. Head to the Rane website for more details.

What is it?

Arturia produces some of the best and most stylish control keyboards and control devices available. Its KeyLab controller keyboards come in an array of sizes and performance at multiple price points. KeyStep is a parallel product that focuses on real-time step sequence and arpeggio creation and is aimed at those working with a hybrid or even DAW-free setup. Options include the original 32-key design as well as a 37-key version and KeyStep Pro, which is a 4-track design.

KeyStep Mk2 is a considerable overhaul of the 32-key version, nevertheless it still has some aspects in common with the original controller. It features the same slimline keybed, with velocity and aftertouch. Meanwhile, you get ribbon-based control of modulation and pitch bend to the left and dedicated octave buttons just above. Step sequencing is a single track with 8-note polyphony per step.

There have been some changes to connectivity, which now includes MIDI in and out, four CV outputs (pitch, gate, mod1 and mod2), pulse synchronisation (in and out), and USB via USB-C. There is simultaneous output from all outputs. Further back panel options include sustain pedal input and on/off switch. Power is provided either via your USB-C connection or by using a regular USB-C power supply (this needs to provide 5V at 100mA).

You’ll find KeyStep Mk2’s biggest changes are on the top panel, and these are primarily down to the removal of the three physical arp/sequencer controls. Indeed, the whole top panel has been redesigned to incorporate the new mini OLED screen, push button encoder and RGB backlit soft buttons. The panel buttons work in conjunction with the OLED-based menu, but also extensively via the Shift button. The Shift also works in conjunction with the keyboard keys to select patterns/arp modes, sequence banks and rate. You even get an Undo option that works when recording patterns.

Performance

Although KeyStep Mk2 is primarily a sequence and arpeggio creation device, it can also work as a straight-up MIDI controller keyboard. Meanwhile, you can incorporate KeyStep Mk2 into your setup as both a clock and transport master or slave. On the original KeyStep, setting this up required fiddling with the back panel dip switches. Thankfully, this is now handled via the OLED menu, as are many further settings.

As you might expect, the reworked top panel directly affects KeyStep operationally, and although options such as tempo are easily set via the metronome button and encoder, this is less immediate than the original physical knobs. However, this is a minor inconvenience, and the panel upgrade now includes more creative options. Two of these – Gate time and Spice – are Shift options that are assigned to the pitch bend and modulation ribbons, respectively. Spice is a pattern variation feature that influences both sequences and arpeggios. As you increase the modulation ribbon, the variation becomes greater, meanwhile returning the modulation to zero returns to the original pattern. Tapping the modulation strip three times activates Dice mode, which further randomises the Spice outcome.

The other main generative feature is Mutate and this primarily influences the notes played. A short press of the Mutate button creates small changes, but holding the button down longer and changes become much greater. This is great for adding more left field pitch changes to a sequence. However, if you don’t like the outcome, you can simply use the handy Reset option to return to the original.

Verdict

Overall, the KeyStep Mk2 is a well-designed and creative sequencer. With an expanded feature set for real-time sequencing and performance, it offers a straightforward yet well-featured entry point for anyone wanting to control a hybrid sequencing setup.

Hands-on demos

Arturia

Alternatives

Specifications

What is it?

With the launch of Traktor Pro 4 late last year, Native Instruments added important features to its DJ software to bring it in line with its key competitors. That included creative tools like stem separation, but also important functionality like flexible beatgrids, a modernised UI and improved performance that meant it no longer felt like it was lagging behind its competitors.

It’s fair to say that Traktor Pro is no longer the market leader it once was, although that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Its biggest selling point in 2025 is that, unlike rivals Serato and Rekordbox, Traktor doesn’t offer a variety of subscription plans or add-ons. The Pro version retails for a single, reasonable price point, making it a particularly attractive option for hobbyist or infrequent DJs who want a comprehensively-equipped, user-friendly DJ app without being tied into a subscription plan.

The MX2, NI’s first proper new mixing controller since 2019’s Traktor Kontrol S3, fits neatly into this narrative. Feature-wise, the MX2 is neither the most advanced or cutting-edge controller on the market, but it’s smartly designed and does an excellent job of offering plug-and-play control over the core capabilities of Traktor Pro 4.

Performance

The most obvious sticking point for those considering the MX2 is likely to be the fact that it is only 2-channel. I’d assume this is because a 4-channel MX4 model is likely on the horizon, but there’s no overlooking the fact that at £350 the MX2 is pricey for a 2-channel device (although the inclusion of the full version of Traktor Pro 4 softens this blow a little).

It’s a shame that the MX2 doesn’t have some kind of dual layer functionality in order to offer basic control of decks C and D. Although it’s primarily a 2-channel controller aimed at entry to intermediate-level DJs, with the addition of stem decks and the Pattern Player step sequencer, there’s more reasons than ever that a DJ at this level might want to try incorporating a third deck into a mix.

Given that – as we'll get to – the MX2 has surprising depth elsewhere, it feels like a more noticeable omission than on some rival entry-level controllers. If you can live with that main limitation though, everything else about the MX2 is impressive.

The hardware itself is lightweight and plasticky but doesn’t feel cheap in the way that some entry-level controllers do. The MX2 is a little bigger than the previous generation Traktor Kontrol S2, primarily in order to pack in an extra bank of controls that give hands-on access to the effects and Pattern Player. Despite the extra elements, the interface feels nicely spread out with decent sized buttons that don’t feel fiddly.

The jogwheels are nicely sized and feel good for a controller at this price point. The MX2’s wheels can be used in two modes. The first is a CDJ-style mode where the whole wheel functions as one for nudging and scanning through tracks.

The second is a turntable-style mode, where the edges are used to nudge a track back-or-forth in time, while the top plate stops and holds playback, like holding your finger down on a vinyl record. As such, the MX2 feels surprisingly good for both old-fashioned beat matching and simple scratching.

The faders are probably the weakest element of the hardware design. They’re fine and do their job well enough, but don’t feel particularly robust. The pitch faders for each deck are fairly short too, making precise pitch adjustments a little fiddly.

The look of the MX2 hardware itself is smart. Without power on it’s all black to the point that it's difficult to differentiate between controls, but that all changes as soon as the unit is plugged in and connected to the software. Every control is brightly lit in a way that makes navigation clear without looking garish, and the colours are mostly customisable within Traktor’s preferences.

The LED lighting comes in handy in a variety of ways too. Each mixer channel has its own volume meter with peak indicator, which is useful for managing track levels.

I’m a particular fan of the implementation of backlighting, which uses coloured lights placed below each edge of the hardware to indicate what’s going on with each deck. This setup is customisable, but by default it uses green lighting to display when a deck is playing and red to show if a deck is out of sync or reaching the end of a track. Again, it looks smart and provides a genuinely useful visual cue.

The MX2 also sounds excellent for an entry-level controller. It acts as an interface for the Traktor Pro software, connecting to a computer via USB-C with RCA and stereo mini-jack outputs for connecting to speakers. The sound is loud and impressively clear. There’s also a rear panel mic input and both ¼ and ⅛ inch headphone ports on the front edge.

Despite being an entry-level device, the MX2 does a good job of incorporating Traktor’s more advanced features. The performance pads below each deck can be switched between cue point, flux looping and Pattern Player modes, the latter of which lets them act like a rudimentary drum machine.

The pads can also be used with Traktor’s stem functionality, allowing users to mute individual drum, bass, vocal and ‘other’ elements, as well as individually adjust levels and apply filtering.

I really like the way the MX2’s top panel controls interact with Traktor’s effect modules and Pattern Player, which can be assigned to the two channels interchangeably. The effects setup is simple, with a bank of buttons to turn effects on and off, and four rotaries to control levels and parameters, but it’s easy to use and thoroughly capable.

These can be used alongside the mixer’s central effects unit, filter and three-band EQ, all of which combine to bring a decent amount of depth to the device.

Verdict

Nothing about the MX2 feels like a massive leap forward – there’s certainly no flashy features like the ‘tactile’ jogwheels added to last gen’s Traktor Kontrol S4. However, in use you get the impression that this is a controller designed by someone with deep knowledge of the software and a sensible grasp of how DJs might interact with it.

Although the MX2 is entry-level in terms of its price point, the implementation of effects, Pattern Player and stem control mean that there’s a decent level of advanced functionality on offer too. In the same way that Traktor Pro’s single price point and user-friendly interface make it appealing for home use, I can see the MX2 appealing to more advanced DJs looking for a convenient and compact at-home controller to test out tracks and mess around with mix ideas.

On this latter point, the recent implementation of the new OneLibrary format into Traktor has the potential to make the software considerably more appealing on this front. The new cross-platform format will allow users to export tracks from their Traktor library, complete with beat grids, metadata and cue points, for use with AlphaTheta CDJs and players (although at the time of writing, the rollout has hit some speedbumps).

If you can live with just two channels, there’s a lot that impresses about the MX2. Personally, I look forward to trying the inevitable MX4.

Hands-on demos

Native Instruments

Alternatives

Specifications

It’s almost six years since Native Instruments last launched an official mixing controller for its DJ software Traktor.

In the intervening years NI itself has changed ownership and joined forces with iZotope and Plugin Alliance, and amidst all those changes there were times when the future of Traktor looked rather uncertain.

The past 18 months have seen a renewed DJ focus from NI though, with the launch of updated versions of the company’s X1 and Z1 controller devices followed by version 4 of Traktor Pro late last year.

Now the company is introducing its latest Traktor controller, the MX2. Unlike the X1 and Z1, which are modular devices aimed at a specific part of the Traktor workflow, the MX2 is an all-in-one controller and interface for Traktor offering control over two decks and two mixer channels, as well as effects and performance features.

The MX2 is undeniably visually striking, thanks to its assorted light-up pads and colour-coded under-lighting. The colour of the pads themselves is fully customisable, allowing users to shape the look and functionality of the MX2. That under-lighting, meanwhile, can be used to indicate when a track is about to finish or when a loop is active.

The layout of the MX2 is fairly similar to that of NI’s previous S2, albeit with some updated functionality. Each deck has a touch sensitive jogwheel with both jog and turntable modes, allowing them to be used for scanning through tracks, nudging timing or scratching.

Below each jogwheel is a bank of eight performance pads. These can function as hot cues, but also be used to step sequence using Traktor’s Pattern Player. The pads can also be used in Flux Loop mode in order to perform quick loops without losing the timing of the playing track.

The pads are also designed to control Traktor’s stem separation functionality, which was added with Traktor Pro 4. This allows tracks to be broken into drum, vocal, bass and instrument stems, which can then be muted and mixed individually.

The MX2 also offers hands-on control over Traktor’s performance effects. Its central Mixer FX section lets users introduce one-knob macro style controls. The pair of Deck FX units, meanwhile, allow users to combine effect modules from Traktor’s range of 40 processor types.

According to Native Instruments: “MX2 combines a streamlined layout with powerful performance tools and a high-quality built-in audio interface. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a portable setup that’s club-ready, MX2 puts everything you need at your fingertips, including the full version of Traktor Pro 4 software.”

The MX2 acts as a 24-bit/96 kHz audio interface with RCA and 1/8" mini jack outputs on the rear panel as well as both 1/4” and 1/8” headphone outputs. There’s also a 1/4” mic input.

The MX2 comes with the full version of the Traktor Pro 4 software, along with a two-month free trial for Beatport’s DJ subscription service.

The MX2 is available now priced at £349/€399/$449. Head to the NI site for more info.

Coachella is upon us, and when Mustard takes to the stage tonight for his headline set on the Sahara stage, he’ll have a couple of exclusive bits of gear for company.

This is thanks to Native Instruments, who the producer has worked with to create suitably yellow versions of the Maschine MK3 and Kontrol S49 specifically for this performance.

“It’s an honour to team up with Native Instruments on this,” says Mustard. “Maschine and the Kontrol S49 are powerful tools I’ve always respected - they make it easy to get ideas down fast and add real musicality. I just got my custom MK3 in time for Coachella, so I’m looking forward to breaking it in on stage in front of the hundreds of thousands of people there and watching online!”

Mustard has been using NI gear for well over a decade, so it seems fitting that he’ll be adding this extra visual spice to what seems set to be one of the biggest nights of his career so far.

However, although this is very much an artist exclusive, NI has actually made two of each product, and is planning to give the spare Maschine MK3 and Kontrol S49 to the lucky winner of its giveaway. Find out more about how you can be in with a chance of winning on the NI website.

Mustard’s biggest career achievement to date has to be being one of the three producers of Kendrick Lamar’s all-conquering diss track Not Like Us. Speaking last year, the producer revealed that it took him “approximately 30 minutes to make that beat,” which, in hindsight, was definitely half an hour well spent.

And, although Mustard’s Coachella audience will doubtless be big - he hits the stage at 11.50pm local time, if you want to check him out either in person or via the YouTube stream - it won’t be the biggest gig of his career so far. In February, he joined Lamar on stage for his Super Bowl Halftime show, which is believed to have pulled in an audience of more than 133 million people.

Native Instruments' Maschine 3.0 software arrived late last year and was met with a somewhat mixed response from many users (us included).

Although v3.0 added features including stem separation, new MIDI edit tools, custom tempos per scene and audio bounce in place, many considered it a fairly lightweight update, particularly given the 11 year wait for a full version upgrade from Maschine 2.

Combined with a lack of new Maschine hardware and controversy over the discontinuation of some older units, NI has some work to do keep the Maschine community onside.

To that end, the company is now back with another update – Maschine 3.1 – which is free for existing version 3 users and offers a much-requested user chords feature. This allows users to save banks of chord progressions for use across projects or to share with others.

3.1 also notably adds a new fullscreen mode in the standalone app version – something that has, incredibly, not been included until now.

The release is likely to please some users more than others though. While the new update will be coming shortly to PC and Mac, users of the standalone Maschine+ will have to wait a little longer.

NI is promising that Maschine+ will receive the 3.1 update later this year, but bearing in mind that users are still waiting for version 3.0 to arrive, this might sound like a slightly hollow promise.

The 3.1 update does, however, add Ableton Live integration for Maschine+ when used in controller mode.

Quiet obsolescence

The recent history of Maschine has been something of a mixed bag for users.

Back in October NI ditched support and compatibility for its latest Maschine software with the Mk1 and Mk2 Maschine controllers (having previously quietly ditched Komplete Kontrol compatibility for its Mk1 keyboards). While this isn't an uncommon practice for hardware brands, it does leave users of older controllers unable to upgrade to the latest version of the software.

More jarring is the lack of significant updates for the standalone Maschine+, which is now a version behind the desktop software, and has had little in the way of new functionality since it arrived in 2020.

What's more, given the constraints of the Maschine+ hardware, it's unclear whether Maschine 3's headline feature – stem separation – will be available on the hardware at all. In recent updates, NI has indicated that, at least initially, Maschine+ will be able to play but not generate stems when the v3 update arrives.

It’s understandably something that owners of the pricey Maschine+ (£1019) aren’t happy with, particularly since it follows soon after the news that Maschine+ wouldn’t be getting access to the software version’s Play Series instruments and Expansions sound packs. This despite the fact that the company's hardware rival, the similarly standalone Akai MPC, would.

The move seemingly tipped Maschine+ users over the edge, claiming that NI were fracturing and planning to abandon their beat-based DAW altogether, an uproar which prompted a rapid backtrack by NI.

However, with this update NI is promising full 3.1 and reinforced Play Series compatibility with Maschine+ for later this year.

As to how long the existing Maschine+ can keep up, and when a yet-to-be-announced update to the Maschine+ hardware may surface, remains to be seen.

Read full details of the Maschine 3.1 update at Native Instruments' website.

AlphaTheta has replaced its flagship all-in-one DJ controller, the XDJ-XZ, with the newly improved XDJ-AZ, which promises greater compatibility and even more tracks than before.

As with previous flagship all-in-one controllers, the XDJ-AZ is designed to offer club-standard features and a layout that is familiar to DJs regularly playing out on CDJ and DJM setups.

This latest model promises all of that but with a more refined interface that includes the addition of a larger 10.1" touchscreen from the previous eight-inch one found on the XZ, for an altogether easier experience.

One big improvement is the inclusion of Wi-Fi and support for rekordboxCloudDirectPlay and StreamingDirectPlay giving access to Beatport Streaming tracks. Generally, all-round compatibility has improved allowing you to run rekordbox on Mac, PC, Android and iOS, with Serato DJ Pro support coming in December 2024.

If you're thinking of upgrading your headphone monitoring to AlphaTheta's new HDJ-F10 headphones, then have no fear as the AZ also includes SonicLink compatibility with an integrated transmitter.

Lastly, the list of improvements culminates in a hike in sound quality, courtesy of a 32-bit D/A converter from ESS Technology. There's also a dedicated button for the mixer settings, on-screen, for rapid adjustment when needed.

We've been lucky enough to get hold of one for testing and you can check out our XDJ-AZ review now.

The XDJ-AZ is available to preorder at all good retailers, priced at $3,199 / £2,799 / €3,299 and you can find out more information on the AlphaTheta website.

AlphaTheta XDJ-AZ review: What is it?

AlphaTheta has unveiled its new all-in-one XDJ-AZ, an update to its predecessor, the Pioneer DJ XDJ-XZ, but are there enough improvements here to justify making the jump to the latest top-end model?

As we've become accustomed to, from the DJing giant, the build quality and styling of the unit are strong and simple. A sturdy metal feel to the unit instils confidence that it will be reliable and stand up to the rigours of being used on any stage.

The four-channel mixer has a classic Pioneer quality feel, with clear labelling of the controls and sound quality that you would expect from the brand, especially on this flagship unit. Each of the channels has its own three-band EQ, Sound Color FX control and trim control.

Connectivity to the XDJ-AZ is covered by two USB Type-A ports for your memory sticks, one rear-mounted USB Type-C port for a laptop (Rekordbox and Serato DJ Pro compatible), and two line/phono inputs for additional players. There are two Mic inputs, 3.5mm and 1/4 inch headphone sockets and an in-built SonicLink connection for headphones such as the HDJ-F10. The XDJ-AZ also has built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capability for use with streaming services such as Rekordbox CloudDirectPlay and Beatport Streaming. To wrap things up in the I/O department, the XDJ-AZ is also equipped with XLR and RCA outputs.

The nearest comparable unit on the market would be the Denon DJ Prime 4. Each has its own unique details and style, but at their core, they offer similar functions.

AlphaTheta XDJ-AZ review: Performance and verdict

Straight out of the box, the XDJ-AZ is familiar, even if you have never laid hands on its predecessor. It has the timeless refined look of the Pioneer DJ CDJ / DJM range which is just spot on.

Compared to the XDJ-XZ, the XDJ-AZ redefines some of the functions and opens up the layout, making it seem less cluttered. Buttons replace switches across the unit, mixer controls are set using the touch screen and gone is the Aux channel.

The interface is dominated by the vibrant 10.1-inch touch screen (three inches bigger than the XDJ-XZ screen) that controls track loading, the playback display and the settings for the XDJ-AZ. You can adjust many aspects of the system, from crossfader and channel curves to headphone settings and more with a tap of the screen. It’s very intuitive to use and we were up and running in no time.

To the side of the screen is a rotary dial for scrolling through media libraries, which we found accurate and easy to use and could also be done via the touch screen. Below the rotary are load buttons for each deck and the tracks are immediately ready for use. While around the screen, there are additional menu and function buttons. There is a lot to digest here, but the controls make sense without the need for hours of study of the manual.

The rest of the unit comprises a four-channel mixer and a CDJ-style unit on either side. The XDJ-AZ has a similar layout to its predecessor with eight performance pads and pad mode selectors below the full-size jog wheels and various deck controls around the sides. All are clearly labelled and in just the right place for ease of use. Any previous CDJ user will feel right at home with the layout.

Above the jog wheel is the selector switch to change between channels one and three, two and four respectively. All four channels can playback from USB or from software with the Line/Phono external inputs only being available on channels three and four. This gave us enough flexibility to enjoy playing music from any source desired.

Above the left and right decks are the controls for the dual Mic inputs and Master Out. Both feature three-band EQ and VU meters for monitoring the level, while the booth monitor is next to the Master controls.

Finally, there are the FX sections. To the left of the mixer, Sound Color FX can be selected for each channel. To the right, there is the Beat FX section that has lots of FX that can be assigned to each channel individually, the mic, the master output or either side of the crossfader. There are also FX Frequency buttons, which can be turned on and off so that the FX are only applied to that frequency spectrum.

Final verdict

We could easily have spent hours tweaking the unit to our liking, but it was while playing that we fell in love with it – the ease of selecting music, the adjustability of the controls and just how tactile and well-thought-out the layout is. Mixing on the XDJ-AZ is a hugely rewarding experience, with nothing feeling clunky or cramped.

Every moment spent with the XDJ-AZ has been a dream. It's quite clear that some serious thought has gone into redesigning this flagship all-in-one controller. The inclusion of a second USB connector for another laptop would've been great but that is not a deal-breaker in our book. This is a great unit for getting prepared for using CDJs or XDJs in a club with a DJM mixer, as the layouts and functionality are similar, but more importantly, without the high cost.

AlphaTheta XDJ-AZ review: Hands-on demos

AlphaTheta / PioneerDJ Global

AlphaTheta XDJ-AZ review: Specifications

• Compatible software: Rekordbox (Mac / Windows), Rekordbox (iOS / Android), Serato DJ Pro (coming December 2024)
• Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
• S/N Ratio: 115dB (USB)
• Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.0018% (USB)
• USB Type-A x2
• USB Type-C x1
• Line / Phono x2 (RCA)
• Mic x2 1/4 inch TRS and XLR Multi socket
• LAN Port
• Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz)
• Bluetooth
• Master x2 (XLR x1, RCA x 1)
• Booth x 1 (1/4 inch TRS )
• Headphones x2 (1/4 inch stereo jack, 3.5mm stereo mini jack
• SonicLink (for headphones only)
• Size (W x D x H): 895 x 504.1 x 133.4 mm
• Weight: 13.5kg / 29.7lbs
• Contact: AlphaTheta

AlphaTheta wants you to get your groove on with its newly released DDJ-GRV6, a rekordbox and Serato DJ Pro compatible controller that brings the remix functionality of the Groove Circuit in rekordbox to life.

At its heart, the DDJ-GRV6 is a four-channel mixer with an onboard audio interface and USB-C connectivity for PC, Mac and mobile devices.

Aimed at giving you greater control over your remixes in a live situation, the Groove Circuit is a set of features that enable you to replace drum parts and add effects. With the DDJ-GRV6, those rekordbox features are now tactile controls.

At the press of a button, you can easily replace drum parts on the fly in the Drum Swap section, whilst creating fills and building transitions in the Drum Roll section. There's also a dedicated FX release paddle control and on top of that, Alpha heta is giving you a pack of 40 loops to download for free.

The Groove Circuit also features a capture option that allows you to extract the drum parts of the track loaded on the deck that you can drop in on any track at any time.

It's not all about rekordbox users though. You'll find an overlay to transform those Groove Circuit controls to Stems FX and easily control the stem separation functionality within Serato Pro DJ.

The DDJ-GRV6 also features a new Smart Rotary Selector that allows up, down, left and right control as well as the standard rotary movement. This extra control promises to aid in faster and more intuitive menu navigation through the media browser, playlists and more.

The controller also includes a Discover button to quickly access the Track Suggestion feature within rekordbox, reminding you of your old favourite tracks.

The DDJ-GRV6 is available to preorder now for £719 / $826 / €849 and you can find more information on the AlphaTheta website.

Since its introduction in the mid ’90s, Pioneer’s CDJ range has become the industry standard in digital DJ decks, with flagship model the CDJ-3000 along with CDJ-2000s and XDJ-1000s found in clubs, raves and festivals the world over. 

CDJs have proved to be a complete DJ game changer, setting the standard other tech companies would have to live up to, defining the nature and functionality of the new DJ technology, and causing a seismic change to the craft of DJing in the process. DJs could now bring way more music with them to gigs than before without carrying heavy record bags. And not only could 1994’s CDJ-500 play CDs but you could also scratch, change tempo with or without changing the pitch, and make loops and drum rolls on the fly.  

The technology has moved on substantially over the last three decades and there’s no doubt that the controls and functionality of a pair of CDJ 3000s can be a little daunting the first time you use them. With many DJs learning their craft at home on controllers, we’ve put together a list of ten basic CDJ functions/controls that you’ll need to be familiar with from your controller and that you’ll need to know about to successfully play your first CDJ gig with just a pair of DJ headphones and your USBs. And we’ve even put them in the order that you’ll probably encounter them. 

Note that to write this piece we used a CDJ2000NXS2 and a CDJ3000 as you’re likely to encounter both machines if you gig regularly. We’re going to assume that you’ve selected your music and put it onto USB drives, and that your music library has either been analysed with Rekordbox or you’ve converted your Serato or Traktor library to Rekordbox.

1. USB Stop

The USB port on CDJs is right in the top left hand corner of the front panel and next to it is the circular USB Stop button. You press it before removing USBs to avoid damaging the data. The USB port has an indicator light which will stop blinking after you press the button, indicating that it’s now safe to remove the previous DJ’s USB and put yours in. 

2. Link

Directly to the right of the USB indicator light is a column of five rectangular buttons where you select the source of your music – Rekordbox, Link, USB, SD or (on older models) Disk; on the 3000 the buttons are in the same place but on the touch screen, below the Source button. Press the Link button and (assuming the CDJs are linked), you can access music from a single USB on both decks. You plug in your USB, select USB as the source, then hit Link on the other drive, the one without a USB plugged in, and you can then access all your music on both decks.

3. Rotary selection knob

This is the large knob to the right of the main screen. Turning it moves the cursor on the screen, allowing you to scroll through playlists, artists or tracks and so on, while pressing it selects the playlist or track etc. Directly above the Rotary Selection Knob are two buttons – the left one is the Back button which takes you back from, for example, your playlist to the main screen. 

4. Cue & play/pause

These are where you’d expect to find them, at the bottom left hand corner of each deck – they’re a pair of large, lit up circular buttons which do just what you’d expect them to. Play/Pause either plays or pauses the track, while Cue either sets or returns to a cue point. To set a cue point press Play/Pause to stop the track at the point you want to set it; you can make minor adjustments by ear with the jog wheel to get to the exact spot, then simply hit the Cue button and it will set the cue point, replacing any previous cue point. Then whenever you hit the Cue button the track will automatically return to this point.

5. Quantize

If you’re trying to create a Cue point and it keeps jumping to a slightly different point in the track, it might be because you have the Quantize function enabled, which will pull any Cue points to the nearest beat location. The Quantize button toggles between off and on and is located in the same area on both CDJ models, at the bottom of the Source buttons row on the 2000 and to the bottom left of the screen on the 3000. 

6. Time mode/autocue

Still in the same left-of-the-screen area of the CDJ is the Time/Mode/Autocue button which has a dual function. Press it once to switch between displaying the time played and time left to play on your tracks. Hold it down for a second to enable Autocue which automatically jumps to the first sound when a track loads, skipping any silent sections at the track’s beginning.

7. Track search & search

There are two sets of circular buttons above the Cue and Play/Pause buttons; the Track Search allows you to move instantly to the next track or back to the start of the current track, while the Search button allows you to scroll back and forth through the song.

8. Master tempo

Directly above the pitch control slider is the Master Tempo button which when activated ‘locks’ the pitch regardless of tempo, preventing sped-up vocals that sound like chipmunks. 

9. Tempo

The second button above the pitch slider is the Tempo button which toggles between different widths of percentage of pitch control – 6%  to 10%, 16% and ‘wide’, with 10% the default – enabling you to make extremely precise or very large pitch adjustments at either extremes. The default setting is ±10 and is displayed on the bottom right of the main screen. So if you take over and can’t seem to pitch your tunes up like you could at home, you might need to reset the Tempo – which in this case means how much or how little effect the pitch slider will have on the tempo of the track – to one you’re more familiar with. 

10. Jog mode

On the right hand side, about a third of the way down the front panel you’ll find the Jog Mode button which toggles between Vinyl or CDJ modes. The differences are that you can scratch and do reloads in Vinyl mode - you can’t in CDJ mode - and if you press the platter when the CDJ is in Vinyl mode it will stop, if it’s in CDJ mode it won’t – although it will still respond to pushing and pulling. How much the platter needs to be pushed or pulled to move or stop is determined by turning the Jog Adjust dial which is to the left of the Jog Mode button. So if you get on the decks and it all feels a little weird and unfamiliar, you might just need to switch modes and alter the Jog Adjust dial to get things to feel more familiar. 

Novation has unveiled the fourth generation of its Launchkey range of MIDI controller keyboards. Made up of six models, stretching from the 25-key Launchkey Mini 25 to the 61-key Launchkey 61, the series has received a comprehensive update that brings new features and functionality to the table.

Novation has fully reimagined the Launchkey Mk4 range, overhauling the look and feel of the controllers while integrating new features that make them a more versatile tool for hands-on DAW control and live electronic performance.

Every model in the range has eight encoders and 16 velocity-sensitive pads that are now equipped with polyphonic aftertouch. The previous generation's screen has been replaced with a brighter and larger OLED display to make navigating parameters and controls faster and more efficient. 

The 49- and 61-key models also feature nine faders for hands-on control of your DAW's mixer, along with redesigned keyboards with semi-weighted keybeds that offer a more precise response and an authentic piano-like feel. You can now split the keyboard into independent zones to control different sounds, or use the layer feature to control two instruments using the same keys. 

Though Launchkey has always been able to control almost any DAW via the HUI protocol, the range has formerly been aimed at Ableton Live users. This is no longer the case, as the Mk4 range now ships with custom-built scripts for Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, Cubase and Reason, so users of those DAWs can get started straight out of the box.

Launchkey mk4's Scale Mode has been updated with 22 new scales, which play nice with Live 12's new Scale Awareness feature. Its Chord Detector will analyse your playing to tell you which chords you're playing, while three new Chord Modes can be used to perform chords using single keys. The patterns of Launchkey's arpeggiator can now be edited and sequenced using the controller's 16 pads.

The range arrives bundled with a suite of software that includes Ableton Live 12 Lite, along with Klevgrand effects plugins, vintage synth emulations from Gforce and orchestral instruments from Orchestral Tools. You'll also get access to keyboard tuition platform Melodics.

Prices and specs for each model can be found below.

Visit Novation's website to find out more.

Launchkey mk4 range

• Launchkey 61 - (61 full-sized semi-weighted piano-style keys and nine faders): £279.99/$299.99
• Launchkey 49 - (49 full-sized semi-weighted piano-style keys and nine faders): £229.99/$249.99
• Launchkey 37 - (37 full-sized keys): £199.99/$209.99
• Launchkey 25 - (25 full-sized keys): £169.99/$179.99
• Launchkey Mini 37 - (37 mini synth-action keys): £139.99/$149.99
• Launchkey Mini 25 - (25 mini synth-action keys): £109.99/$119.99

Come on, be honest we've all done it – you electric guitar's volume knob is getting loose and inaccurate but… well if it gets any worse you'll do something about it. And anyway, you might end up scratching the guitar if you get the spanner out on that nut. Let's just stop this now, because Jim DeCola is here to show us how.

Our pals at the Gibson Gazette (who often get a lot of the company's release scoops first btw) have been revisiting the Master Luthier's series on guitar setups and general maintenance over the last few weeks and this stuff will never get old; Jim's truths are universal and can save you money, time and just make your playing life better. And I'm watching this one too because my Mustang's tone control is getting a little loose goosey.

Jim's illustrating things on a Les Paul above – which of course has twice the knobs to maintain as my Mustang. And a lovely flamed maple top to potentially scratch… ouch. We needn't worry though, he's got it covered. And toggle switches are also a focus here, as well as the output jack – all potentially troublesome areas.

Now these three-way switches and jack sockets can be a little more complicated, as I recently found with a Fender DuoSonic where I had to replace the whole switching unit. If you've got issues with switching between pickups it can be a soldering issue rather than a mechanical one, but checking for loose nuts should always be your first port of call. And the unwelcome extra movement of loose nuts under a pickup switch can actually cause this kind of electronic failure. Best nipped in the bud early then.

Jim highlights this link between mechanical and electronic issues, as well as the tools you need to address control, jack and pot issues. It's a comprehensive tutorial as we'd expect from a pro, and using the right tools – or the best substitutes – Jim recommends should not be overlooked.

"It's a pretty simple repair that occurs quite often on guitars," says Jim of the jack socket especially. "If you do it properly, you won't have to do it as often, and if you have the right tools it just makes it a lot easier."

Check it out in the Gibson video above – we certainly feel more confident dealing with these issues after watching it. 

• Set up your electric guitar: how to adjust action, truss rod, string radius, pickup height and clean your fingerboard and frets

Native Instruments Traktor X1 MK3: What is it?

The X1 MK3 is the latest version of Native Instruments’ compact Traktor DJ controller, adding several new features over the MK1 and 2 versions. Importantly, for club use: it’s small and colourful (the indicator lights that is, not the black box), robust and relatively straightforward to get to grips with. 

The MK3 has a slightly updated layout compared to earlier models, including a pair of high-quality OLED displays instead of one. Moving between mixer and effects modes is done using the central button at the top of the device. A shift press of this also takes us between MIDI mode and controller mode. In mixer mode, the top three dials control three bands of EQ, while the fourth down controls the volume of that mixer channel.

Native Instruments Traktor X1 MK3: Performance and verdict

The X1 can control effects across two decks simultaneously. When in effects mode, the four dials on each side of the controller can be used to control a variety of effect parameters, either set to control a single effect with access to multiple parameters, or for broader control over a full effect group, with the top dial used as a global dry/wet. 

The next set of dials half way down the device control loop length and ‘beat jumps’. The lower keys control the samplers as well as cueing and syncing. A Pattern Player is also available in Traktor Pro Plus software (requiring an additional subscription) and can be customised to play sequenced patterns and rhythms from the controller. 

The X1 MK3 adds stylish lighting that can be used to indicate the status of a deck in the Traktor 3 software. Green lights indicate when a loop is active and a red light indicates a track is 30 seconds from finishing, although these lights can also be deactivated or customised in the software. The additional screens are handy for displaying information such as volume and loop lengths.

Other devices can be connected to the controller via the three USB inputs on the rear. This is useful for chaining other controllers to the MK3, but doing so requires the use of the included power supply.

The difference between the rectangular and dome-shaped buttons is great for more tactile mixing, in dark rooms, and the cue and play buttons feel different; a variation on previous models.

One disappointment is that there’s no touch-sensitive strip in the MK3, which is a drawback for those who prefer to be able to ‘slide’ deck functions, rather than just have keys. This was available on previous versions, and it was especially handy for functions like pitch adjustment.

The MK3 also comes with a soft protector case and weighs only 0.75kg, so could not be easier to pop in a backpack.

This is Native Instruments’ first new Traktor controller in some time, and we hope its arrival spells a renewed focus on the DJ software and its associated hardware tools.

MusicRadar verdict: A great portable effects and mixing controller for DJs building modular setups and those who want something they can use in any club.

Native Instruments Traktor X1 MK3: The web says

"We found the Traktor X1 Mk3 fun, intuitive and just pretty cool to use – frankly they were improving on a much-loved little modular controller anyway, and we think the changes are overwhelmingly good."
Digital DJ Tips

Native Instruments Traktor X1 MK3: Hands-on demos

Native Instruments

D.A.V.E. - Digital and Vinyl Expert

Dovem

DJcityTV

Native Instruments Traktor X1 MK3: Specifications

• KEY FEATURES: A good device for those wanting a compact DJ mixing controller with a host of effects and looping options on board. The OLED screens and colour coded lights are a bonus, with integrability with Traktor Pro software really useful.
• CONTACT: Native Instruments

Crank out your squelchiest basslines, because it’s 303 day, and Roland and Serato are celebrating together this year with a double control vinyl set that honours not only the classic TB synth, but also the TR-606 drum machine.

Both boxes were released in 1981 to a fairly muted response, but found their groove in the ‘90s when they were discovered and repurposed by electronic musicians. The first record of the new 12-inch vinyl pairing pays tribute to classic 303 basslines - as reinterpreted by hip house pioneer Fast Eddie and influential dance music DJ and producer Shadow Child - while the second simulates 606 drum beats thanks to the efforts of producer DJ Haus and J Rocc, one of the original turntablists.

“If it wasn’t for the 303, I wouldn’t even be here right now talking to you. That’s my history,” says Fast Eddie of the classic Roland synth. J Rocc meanwhile, recalls: “When I first heard the 606, it was a revelation - it’s right up there with the best.” 

The BPMs of the tracks on each of the records are complementary, making it easy to use them together. In each case, the flip side features the Serato control tone.

The Serato and Roland TB-303 Bass Line / TR-606 Drumatix Control Vinyl is available now from selected retailers.

Though it's best known for its image and video editing tools, Adobe is no stranger to the world of audio: the Audition audio recording software is a popular choice for those working in post-production. 

The company has been progressively integrating artificial intelligence into its family of products for a while - last year it unveiled Firefly, an AI image generator that works within Photoshop, along with a suite of browser-based AI audio editing tools. 

This week, Adobe has revealed another venture into artificial intelligence. Project Music GenAI Control is an "early-stage generative AI music generation and editing tool" that generates music using instructions from text prompts and allows for fine-grained, AI-based audio editing.

Much like Google's MusicFX and Meta's MusicGen, GenAI Control responds to instructions based on genre and mood to generate musical clips. Once the audio is generated, the user can change the tune to match a reference melody, alter the structure and tempo, increase and decrease intensity, or extend the clip.

"One of the exciting things about these new tools is that they aren’t just about generating audio - they’re taking it to the level of Photoshop by giving creatives the same kind of deep control to shape, tweak, and edit their audio", explains Nicholas Bryan, Senior Research Scientist at Adobe Research. "It’s a kind of pixel-level control for music".

GenAI Control is demonstrated in the video above. In the video, Bryan generates an orchestral accompaniment for an existing melody line, before transforming the whole clip into a hip-hop style. After that, Bryan generates an R&B clip that follows an ABA structure, before creating an endlessly looping clip with the prompt "groovy rock". 

While the music heard in the clip is admittedly a little uninspiring, it's worth remembering that GenAI Control is still in its early stages; we're excited to see what this kind of technology can do once integrated into a finished product.

Last year, Arturia unveiled mk3 versions of its KeyLab Essential range of affordable controller keyboards. In their third iteration, the 49 and 61-key controllers offered improved DAW integration, a redesigned interface and new features such as Chord and Scale Modes. 

Today, Arturia is expanding the KeyLab Essential range with the KeyLab Essential 88 mk3, a full-sized 88-key controller keyboard boasting the same updated feature set as its 49 and 61-key cousins and available in both white and black.

The 88 mk3 is equipped with the same kind of velocity-sensitive semi-weighted keyboard as the 49 and 61-key versions, which we described as "precise and reasonably springy" with a "hybrid synth-piano feel" in our review last year.

Above the keyboard, you'll find a 2.5" display and DAW controls, next to a 2x4 grid of pressure and velocity-sensitive pads and a bank of nine faders and nine full-rotation encoders, all of which arrive pre-mapped to parameters in your DAW and bundled software instruments such as Analog Lab V.

KeyLab Essential mk3 is equipped with custom DAW scripts for majors DAWS such as Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, Cubase and Bitwig. You can design your own customised mappings, of course, or control other DAWs via the MCU/HUI protocol.

Arturia is hoping to make writing melodies and chord sequences easier with Chord and Scale Modes and a built-in arpeggiator. Chord Mode assigns chords to single keys across the keyboard while Scale Mode locks the keyboard to one of a selection of pre-defined scales, so you won't be able to hit a wrong note if you try.

All KeyLab Essential mk3 controllers arrive bundled with a two-month subscription to Loopcloud and a software package that includes Analog Lab V, a software instrument that offers thousands of presets lifted  from its V Collection bundle of synth plugins, and Ableton Live Lite.

Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3 88 is priced at £299.

Find out more on Arturia's website.

If you're a Logic Pro user that's getting frustrated with solely keyboard and mouse-based music-making, Nektar could have the answer. 

The manufacturer's Panorama CS12 is a dedicated hardware controller for Logic that's described by Nektar's Product Manager Tim Chandler as "a completely new take" on the format. CS12 is a channel strip controller that's said to place emphasis on plugin control and organization, providing easy access to any parameter on Logic's channel strips. 

On the left of the controller's interface, you'll find a 100mm motorized fader next to a backlit level meter and pan control. In the centre, we have a comprehensive transport section beneath a generously large TFT display. 

Alongside this there's a column of backlit, colour-coded buttons that correspond to specific plugins mapped within Logic; the bottom two give you access to sends, Logic's Smart Controls and user-defined pages for custom global assignments. The rest of CS12's interface is devoted to illuminated 12 rotary knobs and four buttons.

CS12 arrives with tightly integrated support for all of Logic's stock plugins and a number of popular third-party plugins, with parameters pre-configured to avoid time-consuming manual mapping, though mappings can be customized via the bundled Nektarine software if you need to. Any third-party plugin can be handled by CS12 without using plugin hosting software.

Nektar Panorama CS12 is priced at £345/$359 and can be pre-ordered from Thomann now.

Watch Sonic State's NAMM 2024 interview with Nektar below.

Native Instruments has launched the third version of its Traktor X1 DJ controller, and it looks like the most significant update yet.

The entirely new layout is the most obvious change, and NI say it'll make the X1 more intuitive and easy to use than ever, with user-definable button color coding, an extra row of buttons, four encoders and OLED displays for key info, with the aim of reducing 'Laptop Face', which sounds like a problem we definitely have.

There are five OLEDs spaced across the controller. meaning you can garner crucial info, like track info, remaining time, FX deployed, plus relevant parameters, without having to peer at your laptop screen. 

This will also leave you free to admire the all-new coloured lighting under the chassis. The ambient lighting system is fully customisable via NI's Traktor Pro 3 software, which comes bundled with the X1 and can be configured to warn you when, for instance, a track is about to end or is in a loop.

Traktor X1 Mk3 will ship on 23 September, but you can pre-order now for $299/£259.

For more Traktor X1 details and info check out the overview below or head over to Native Instruments.

It's 50 years since the birth of scratching so it feels somehow apt that Pioneer's new DDJ-REV5 controller delivers the 'next generation' of scratch control. Add in some very cutting-edge stem, performance and BPM mixing features, and this could be one of the best mid-priced DJ tools out there. 

Pioneer's new DDJ-REV5 is a Serato DJ Pro and rekordbox compatible controller, and slots in between the company's DDJ-REV1 and REV 7, offering several features of the top end model but for less cash. 

Pioneer says the new DDJ-REV5 offers the best of old and new with an "authentic scratch experience and a variety of innovative features to enable more creative open-format DJ performances".

These new features include large and easy-to-use jog wheels, designed to feel like classic CDJ wheels. There's also a robust MAGVEL fader which is "ready to translate every tiny movement" while scratching. 

But it seems to be the performance side of the controller where the DDJ-REV5 really shines. As well as long tempo sliders above the decks, it features both Performance Pads and Lever FX so you can easily add riffs and effects as you mix. You can use the new Piano Play mode, for example, to play 'always in key' riffs and melodies above your mixes.

The stem controls and features are pretty cool too. There are four dedicated buttons to control your music as the software splits the audio into its constituent parts (vocals, melody, bass, and drums in Serato DJ Pro, or vocal, drums, and other instruments in rekordbox). 

Each stem part can be solo'd or muted to create your live mashups, or different stems can be controlled by separate decks for live remixes. An EQ knob controls volume for separate stems. 

Finally, there's an Auto BPM feature that lets you smoothly transition between the tempos of your current and incoming tracks over a predetermined number of bars – the current track will gradually change tempo to match the one loaded over those bars. 

DDJ-REV5 costs, around £999 (inc tax) and $€1099 plus tax. You can get more information from the Pioneer DJ website and there's an in depth video from Pioneer DJ US below.

It’s not just music producers who like the idea of ditching the laptop - DJs want a piece of the standalone action, too. That’s certainly what Denon DJ is hoping, anyway, as it’s just launched the new free-roaming SC Live DJ controllers - the SC Live 4 and SC Live 2 - both of which enable you to mix tracks direct from Amazon Music Unlimited.

These controllers are the first to offer integration with the Jeff Bezos empire’s music streaming service, and feature an “exclusive secure chipset to meet Amazon’s music streaming requirements”. Cloak and dagger stuff; Denon could tell us how it works, but then it would have to kill us.

What we can confirm is that both the SC Live 4 and SC Live 2 enable you to access a library of more than 100 million lossless songs (providing you have an Amazon Music Unlimited subscription and a Wi-Fi connection that is). Song analysis is said to be speedy, so selecting and playing tracks mid-set shouldn’t be a problem.

The SC Live 4 and SC Live 2 inherit their “club-standard” layout and workflow from Denon’s flagship SC6000 Prime media players and mixers, with each offering a seven-inch multi-gesture touchscreen, SD and USB media slots and performance FX. You can use a combination of songs stored on physical media and from a streaming service during the same performance.

To ensure completely standalone operation, both SC Live controllers have a set of built-in speakers. Obviously, you can turn these off when you’re hooked up to a bigger system.

Specs for both controllers are below. Available now, the SC Live 4 and SC Live 2 cost $1,299 and $1,099 respectively. Find out more on the Denon DJ website.

With the holiday season fast approaching, Pioneer DJ has released a new DJ controller that’s designed specifically for beginners who might be hoping to find one under their Christmas tree this year. The DDJ-FLX4  - “It’s a vibe,” apparently - takes its cues from Pioneer’s existing DDJ-400, but promises to make learning to DJ even easier.

You have a choice when it comes to DJ software: you get free use of the Performance mode in rekordbox, and come next year, when the iOS and Android versions of rekordbox are updated, you’ll be able to mix using your phone or tablet, too.

Serato DJ Lite is also included, and both this and rekordbox enable you to DJ using local files or via streaming services (TIDAL, Beatport Streaming, Beatsource Streaming or SoundCloud Go+) providing you have a suitable subscription.

The DDJ-FLX4’s controls are said to have been kept simple, and rekordbox has several tutorials built into it that will teach you the basics.

There are a couple of handy sounding ‘cheat features’ for aspiring DJs, too: Smart Fader is designed to let you create “effortless transitions” between tracks; and Smart CFX applies combinations of effects with a single knob.

The DDJ-FLX4 will also mix the sound of your microphone with the music, so there’s no need for a separate audio interface or mixer, and you can easily stream a set from a single computer.

The DDJ-FLX4 should be available soon priced at $299/£279. Find out more on the Pioneer DJ website.

Did someone’s Boiler Room set put a tear in your eye and a spark in your heart? Did one of the many YouTube videos of all-vinyl funk and soul/city pop finally break your will? However you got here, it seems very much like it could be time: time for you to start learning how to DJ.

In order to learn how to DJ, you need to learn the tools of the trade. Top-flight gear like CDJs, pro mixers and Technics turntables are industry-standard tools, but also some combination of costly, inconvenient and downright obtuse to use. The humble DJ controller, when paired with a computer or smartphone, can give you the same essential workflow for much, much less.

DJ controllers are interfaces for your computer, that enable you to control DJ software hands-on. They tend to mimic the layout of a CDJs-and-mixer DJ setup, which makes them an opportunity to learn your way around these tools without forking out for rehearsal spaces or expensive gear.

They’re also excellent tools in their own right. Even pro DJs will have DJ controllers at home or in their backpack; they’re handy to have when building your digital crates or testing out sets, and they also make recording your own mixes at home a breeze. Depending on their specs, they can even be practical as actual gigging equipment. They are, fundamentally, professional pieces of gear, with all the core functionality of their venue-system big siblings.

Certain controllers are designed to work with certain software, and some are designed with different DJing disciplines in mind – which is what might make it hard for someone starting out to know which one they ought to buy. That’s where this very guide comes in, with a breakdown of the best-in-class for all manner of different criteria.

If you’d like to know a bit more about what distinguishes one controller from the next, you’ll find an extensive suite of information and suggestions in my FAQ section at the bottom, while a glossary takes you through all the key terms you might come across. Read on, though, to find out what the best DJ controllers on the market are today.

Best overall

The lowdown: Pioneer/AlphaTheta’s CDJs are essentially the industry standard, at least for club DJs. Their 2-channel DDJ-FLX4 is an entry-level DJ controller, that offers a simplified take on those high-end industry-standard devices, and that delivers the essentials – jog wheels, performance pads and a simple mixer – without threatening to overwhelm beginners.

Features: The Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 is a two-channel, two-deck DJ controller with a familiar layout. On it, you’ll find all the basic tools you’d hope to find on larger controllers and CDJ systems, including three-band EQs for each channel, hot cue and performance pads for each deck, dedicated looping buttons and access to both filters and beat fx.

The FLX4 is built to work with four different forms of DJ software: rekordbox, djay, Serato DJ Lite, and Traktor Play. rekordbox being Pioneer’s house-brand software, using the FLX4 with it means unlocking some sophisticated performance features – including Bluetooth connectivity to a smartphone or tablet running rekordbox’s mobile app, which enables you to play an entire set wirelessly and without a laptop in sight by streaming tracks directly from Beatport, Beatsource, Soundcloud or TIDAL.

Rekordbox also contains the brains behind the FLX4’s Smart Mixing features, that simplify the process of beatmatching, EQing and effects processing to make mixing a breeze. The Smart Fader automatically tweaks volume, EQ and BPM to help create smooth transitions between your tracks, while Smart CFX instantly applies a selection of multi-effects to help emphasize climactic moments in your sets.

Build quality: The PioneerDJ DDJ-FLX4 is a relatively well put-together piece of equipment. The chassis is plastic and the FLX4 quite lightweight accordingly, but it’s solid enough under-hands to be reassuring. I wouldn’t trust it with the rigours of frequent backpack transport-age or gigging, but as a piece of desktop equipment, it’s everything you’d want. The jogwheels feel pretty neat, even for their size.

Performance: Using the DDJ-FLX4 is exactly the seamless experience you’d hope for as a beginner. The layout roughly matches that of Pioneer’s CDJ and XDJ series, which makes it a great platform for learning and for easy at-home practice or mix-recording (courtesy of those handy RCA master outputs). My biggest gripe is with the size of it – useful for taking up less desk space, but not so much for the short throw of the faders, which can make slow blends more difficult.

The Smart Mixing features are fun, too, especially for stone-cold newbies. For my curmudgeonly two cents, I’d suggest they were too assistive to do any real learning with – but they work as advertised, and can be good for proof-of-concept fooling-around.

While the FLX4 works with a handful of different forms of DJ software, it’s only rekordbox that enables you to use it to its fullest extent. Given Pioneer/AlphaTheta’s industry-standard nature, most DJs working on club gear will want to be primarily using rekordbox anyway.

Best budget

The lowdown: Budget DJ controllers are, if anything, abundant. But it’s only a small minority of them that can actually be called ‘good’ – whether that relates to build quality, ergonomics or translatable, beginner-friendly features. The AlphaTheta DDJ-FLX2, replacing the Pioneer DDJ-200 that came before, is one of the good ones.

Features: The DDJ-FLX2 is a fairly bare-bones piece of kit – save for some extremely beginner-friendly modern conveniences not found on other controllers. The FLX2 is a two-channel, two-deck controller with all the basics; tempo and channel faders, a cross-fader, three-band EQs and the requisite jogwheels. There are eight performance pads per channel, that also give access to looping and hot cues; headphone cues and channel FX selections are condensed into a pair of buttons for a less cluttered control surface.

The two standout features here are the Bluetooth connectivity – which enables you to wirelessly control the rekordbox app on your device – and Pioneer/AlphaTheta’s Smart FX features, as seen on the Pioneer DDJ FLX4. CFX lets you bring in channel FX that automatically match the BPM of the track, while Smart Fader lets you transition smoothly from one track to the next by automatically adjusting BPM and adding effects.

Build quality: The DDJ-FLX2 is a lightweight device, with considerable thanks to its simplicity. There’s no audio inputs or interfacing, so no pesky circuitry to handle microphones or auxiliary ins; the simplified control surface also means less weighty knobs and encoders. In this way, the FLX2 is sure to travel well – even if it feels a little flimsy accordingly. Outside of this, the quality is decent, even equivalent to that of some bigger siblings in the Pioneer/AlphaTheta family.

Performance: Anyone but an honest-and-true beginner is likely to struggle a little with this thing. The lack of on-board browser controls means straddling the FLX2 and your DJ software of choice to line up your next tracks or even control loops properly. But the FLX2 doesn’t exist for such folk; it’s a trimmed-down DJ controller that conveys the essentials, and does so well.

The jogwheels’ essential functions mirror those of much pricier equipment, and everything else is geared well towards someone feeling their way around DJing for the first time. The Smart FX functions are intuitive and easy, if a little mollycoddling – and the three-band EQ, not often found on cheaper controllers like this, is ideal for figuring out blends from the jump.

Best for Traktor

The lowdown: Native Instruments is an audio-industry leader when it comes to matters of software. Its Kontakt VST interface is beloved by music producers and digital synth messer-around-erers, while other plugins in the iZotope series continue to push the boat out for mix engineering. Among that bounty, you’ll also find Traktor – a lesser-sung DJ software that deftly folds in performance technology with library management. It’s a true performance DJ’s toolset, and the new Traktor MX2 is the beginner DJ controller best-suited to unlocking its potential.

Features: The Traktor MX2 is a two-channel DJ controller, designed specifically to work with Native Instruments’ Traktor DJ software. It comes with a full license for Traktor Pro 4, an unusual gift in a market dominated by DJ controllers relying on free ‘lite’ versions of otherwise paid software.

With this specificity at the heart of the MX2’s design, it gives you hands-on and tactile control of Traktor Pro 4’s many forward-thinking performance-centric tools, from built-in stem separation to Pattern Player sequencing for on-the-fly groovemaking. Performance pads, rotary encoders and on-board screens are all part of the fun. Each deck on the unit has dedicated FX Units too, allowing you granular control of some very powerful digital effects.

Build quality: All this, in a surprisingly well-built piece of equipment. Yes it’s lightweight, and yes, plastic is the word of the day, but there’s still some pleasing robustness here. The faders are the weakest point, feeling a little flimsy and scratchy – but everything else, jogwheels included, feels solid.

The Traktor MX2 is one of the sleeker-looking DJ controllers I’ve seen on the market. Looks shouldn’t come to much when you’re deciding between the best budget DJ controllers, but the tasteful interface on display here is hard to discount – and actually helps a bit with workflow, too.

Performance: The NI Traktor MX2 performs, in a word, admirably; the external power supply ensures enough juice for some serious output – above and beyond those of the bus-powered DJ controllers at similar price points (with one eye cocked squarely at messrs Pioneer/AlphaTheta).

It’s not as small as other controllers either, making it a little less clumsy of a user experience. In fact, the generous smattering of encoder knobs makes controlling performance tools in Traktor Pro 4 extremely easier, whether accessing stems or programming patterns to play under your selections.

Best for Serato

The lowdown: Roland is a relative newcomer to the DJ gear realm, but by no means a newcomer to music. Its early drum machines and bass synths became the bedrock for modern music production, and its innovations since have pushed the envelope for music-making. With its line of DJ controllers, Roland aims to bring that pedigree to the selectors – in so doing, making an ideal Serato DJ controller.

Features: The Roland DJ-202 is a two-channel, four-deck DJ controller that folds in some unique functionality – functionality that reflects Roland’s own history when it comes to music and music-making. The most compelling of these is the inclusion of the brand’s iconic 808, 909 and 707 drum machines, as on-board emulations that can be programmed with the performance pads and an on-board sequencer. Alongside this, the DJ-202 also has a mic input, which benefits from several onboard vocal effects, including a gate, filters, reverb and echo.

The DJ-202 is specifically designed for use with Serato DJ, and works with Serato DJ Lite out of the box. If you upgrade to a Serato DJ Pro license, you’ll unlock some pro-level features the controller’s mapped-out for, including additional effects and deck control.

Build quality: The chassis is light but sturdy, and the jog wheels are similarly supportive-feeling – commendable even, especially against cheaper-feeling jog wheels at a similar price. It’s a small shame that the performance pads feel on the cheaper side, though, particularly when there are drum machines on board; MPC pads these are not, to say the least.

Performance: Using the Roland DJ-202, you’ll encounter more than a few “I need the manual” moments. But this is a good thing. The DJ-202 is crammed with features that exceed its size, meaning a lot of screenless menuing to access different drum machines, patterns and effects; once they’re learned, though, you have a powerful machine with capabilities beyond that of Serato alone. Speaking of which, its integration with Serato is peerless for the price.

Best for scratching

The lowdown: Hercules isn’t the most renowned of the DJ-peripheral brands out there, and I’m sure it wouldn’t mind me saying so. It sits pretty comfortably in the beginner-DJ sphere, with a range of cheap and cheerful DJ controllers that put the ‘play’ back into ‘playback’. This, though, is a little different. The DJ Control Inpulse T7 is one of the cheapest DJ controllers on the market with motorised platters instead of rotary-encoding jogwheels – making it an eminently affordable option for the budding turntablist.

Features: The Hercules DJ Control Inpulse T7 is an intermediate-like grade DJ controller at an good price. But, when you look at what it offers, that price becomes considerably more beginner-friendly. The chief selling point here is the deck platters, which are like 7-inch emulations of real DJ turntables. They’re belt-driven, each with a slipmat and a vinyl-insert disc over the top. This means when you line up a track in your DJ software, the platter spins like you’re playing a real record. And when you hold or spin the disc on top, your track acts accordingly.

These motorised platters mean authentic force feedback and feel when you’re manipulating tracks, allowing you to get a much more representative sense of finding cue points and manipulating songs. They’re housed in an uncharacteristically cheap controller, otherwise bolstered by dual RCA and XLR master outputs and a balanced mic input, as well as a suite of handy controls ranging from expected basics to unexpected boons (for instance, the shortcut buttons for one-touch stem-isolation).

Build quality: There are some cheaper construction elements to the DJ Control Inpulse T7, as is to be expected from a DJ controller that juggles high-concept interfaces and a low RRP. What is here is solid, though, and comes with a fair few modern conveniences, too; most notably, there are fold-out feet that let you lift the T7 for a more comfortable playing experience.

The faders, as is common with cheaper DJ controllers, leave a little bit to be desired – and especially for a unit designed near-explicitly for scratching, battle-mixing or turntable operation more generally. That said, it's possible to buy upgrades for the Inpulse T7 direct from Hercules, which is a nice option to have (and a vote of confidence in Hercules as a brand).

Performance: Using the Inpulse T7 is about as dreamy as it gets this low in the price range. There are some pleasing paddles, pads and potentiometers to play with, and some clever controls made all the easier to access by their abundance. The platters work well, being comfortable and even fun to use.

It’s a shame that some features are locked behind a paid Serato DJ upgrade; it’s perhaps expected not to be able to access pro tools like stem separation, but paywalling the option to switch the platter speed between 33 and 45rpm is an odd one. Still, what’s here is very enjoyable to use – and by no means to be sniffed at, from a learner scratch DJ’s perspective.

Best for smartphones

The lowdown: Hercules has featured elsewhere in this list, with a surprisingly full-featured entry-level DJ controller; here is something very different indeed. If you’re fixing to DJ a small picnic party, or get some practice in on a long journey, you want a small controller dedicated to playing nice with smartphones – and that is precisely what the DJ Control Mix Ultra is.

Features: The Hercules DJ Control Mix Ultra is a compact, portable two-channel DJ controller with a 10-hour rechargeable battery, designed to work with iOS and Android devices. There are no inputs or outputs here, save for a USB-A port through which to test and charge the thing; instead, the DJ Control Mix Ultra connects to your device via Bluetooth, and controls your DJ app wirelessly.

In order to supply the I/O you’re missing from the unit itself, Hercules include a splitter cable for your smart device, that enables you to retrieve a headphone cue mix and a master output to send to bigger speakers. The simplicity of this device in design and execution is great for beginners, and for ease-of-use out and about, but it has its shortcomings – from a guaranteed mono master output if you want to use headphone monitoring, to the Ultra’s sole compatibility with one app. That app, to be specific, is Algoriddim’s djay (or djay Pro if you upgrade). It isn’t a frontrunner choice as far as apps go, but it nonetheless offers support for streaming from Beatport, Soundcloud and various other services – along with some clever ‘Neural Mix’ stem isolation tools too.

Build quality: At this low price, it won’t be too surprising to learn the unit is quite light, and perhaps not the most robust of DJ controllers for beginners. Still, it’s solid enough, and quite happy being slung around in a backpack. This is with especial thanks to the deck-saver lid it comes with, which also doubles as a tray and smartphone stand when you want to use the controller.

Performance: This is an easy DJ controller to intuit, and actually quite fun to play with. The three-band EQ controls are a boon for something this small, even if the jog wheels themselves are a little diminutive for accurate cueing and/or scratching. Per-deck effects are accessed via the performance pads, which also give you access to hot cues, looping, and djay’s Neural Mix tech; you can also set the crossfader to and ‘FX fade’, which adjusts BPMs and adds effects of your choice to smoothen your blends.

Best compact

Numark is another key name in DJ hardware, particularly for its affordable turntables and mixers. Its input in the world of beginner DJ controllers certainly isn’t to be overlooked either, though. Numark has some decently-featured controllers in this bracket, but right now I'm excited about this: the Numark DJ2GO2 Touch.

Features: The Numark DJ2GO2 Touch is an upgraded two-channel, two-deck DJ controller that aims to be heard, not seen. That’s because it’s one of the most compact DJ controllers you’ll ever find on the market, being just 31cm wide and 8.6cm deep.

In terms of balancing size and features, it’s relatively jam-packed as far as DJ controllers go; I, for one, am impressed they made room for a rotary-encoder library browser, as well as the requisite jog wheels, crossfader, performance pads and tempo faders. No room for EQ knobs, though, sadly.

The controller is designed for use right-out-the-box with the free Serato DJ Lite, but it’s mapped and ready for use with the full paid version if and when you’re ready to upgrade. It won’t play as nicely with other DJ software, but via MIDI mapping you can absolutely make it work.

Build quality: The Numark DJ2GO2 Touch isn’t going to win any major awards for robustness, but it's certainly a capable piece of gear. Being compact, it’s somewhat dense – though still light. It’ll definitely sit comfortably in a travel bag or backpack for extended periods of time. The control surface is surprisingly hardy too, given the price.

Performance: Numark has made a big deal about the DJ2GO2 Touch’s scratch capabilities – but the practical reality is a little more pragmatic than the optimism on display here. Still, those jog wheels are actually great for their size, which is saying a lot when it comes to cheaper compact controllers. If you’re willing to get a bit weeds-y about MIDI mapping, too, you can get more of what you need out of your DJ2GO2 Touch than it gives out of the box.

Best four deck

The lowdown: Pioneer/AlphaTheta is an unsurprisingly prevalent brand in this round-up, and back again with a DJ controller that sits quite comfortably above the entry level – but which offers peerless four-deck, four-channel performance for its price.

Features: The AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6 is a rekordbox- and Serato DJ-friendly DJ controller. It’s the largest on this list, and has a feature set that makes it a powerful professional tool as well – something that even intermediate and pro users could stand to benefit from. The core features it boasts are a four-channel mixer and four-deck functionality, via two decks which each possess a CDJ-3000X-sized jog wheel (replete with central screens) and eight performance pads.

The feature that gives the GRV6 its name, though, is that which adorns the additional band at the top of each deck – a series of controls labelled ‘Groove Circuit’. The Groove Circuit is a new software capability in rekordbox, that enables you to grab, remove or otherwise replace drum parts in your tracks for live remixing.

Given that the Groove Circuit is rekordbox-exclusive, the strip at the top may seem redundant for Serato users – but AlphaTheta’s been clever here. The same buttons control Serato’s Stem FX functionality – and in the box, you’ll find a sticker-set to relabel their functions accordingly.

Build quality: The AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6 is undeniably solidly built, even if still somewhat plasticky in places. Where it excels is with its control surface, which utilises some quality components – one of the more impressive of which is the ‘smart rotary selector’ for the browser interface. It not only rotates and clicks in, but also pushes up, down, left and right for even easier navigation.

I’m also, naturally, a huge fan of the CDJ-3000X-style jog wheels supplied; they add some weight to the thing, not just physically but in terms of how it feels to use. The tempo and mixer faders are still a little on the short side, though, making tight control a little harder than it could be.

Performance: The DDJ-GRV6 is a delight to use, largely on account of its fairly faithful CDJ-style control interface and execution. Everything’s geared towards making DJing easier, and there’s even some club-grade features here for beginners to get their teeth into. It is a shame to see something with four channels, but with no opportunity to plug other things into those channels. Phono inputs for turntables would be a dream, but understandably a difficult ask at even this price point.

Whether AlphaTheta’s Groove Circuit is the success they’d like it to be remains to be seen, too. It could be useful in the right hands – particularly for being an in-depth iteration of the stem-separation features that so many contemporary DJs enjoy utilising –, but for me it wasn’t a huge draw. Thankfully, everything else very much is.

Best budget all-in-one

The lowdown: We’ve seen Numark once before on this list, courtesy of its micro-sized portable DJ controller – but this is very much on the other side of the spectrum when it comes to budget DJ controllers. This is the Numark Mixstream Pro +, a controller unlike any other here; it is a standalone unit, with its own onboard software for reading or streaming audio.

Features: This is a two-channel, two-deck standalone DJ controller with a shedload of options up its sleeve. It can stream audio in from a wide variety of services, receive files from Dropbox, and play audio from conventional USBs (or SD cards, for that matter); these files can be browsed conventionally using a rotary encoder, or accessed using the huge on-board 7-inch touchscreen.

The Mixstream Pro+ improves on the prior Mixstream Pro by adding controller compatibility with Serato DJ and Virtual DJ, as well as an option to access audio from Amazon’s streaming service – making it even more versatile a budget DJ controller.

And music isn’t all it controls. The Pro+ is also compatible with DMX and Philips Hue lighting, for a complete show. Finally, It has two flavours of master output for you to use, but you don’t even need these if you’re practicing at home, thanks to some handy on-board speakers. It’s the most all-in-one all-in-one you’ll find below £/$1000.

Build quality: Being a budget standalone, there are naturally some compromises made with respect to build. Despite these, it feels solid enough in your hands, and weighty enough too. That said, it’s light enough to sit comfortably in a backpack for grab-and-go performance.

Performance: It’s hard to justify turning your nose up at the Mixstream Pro+, even if you’re a self-described professional with an eye for high standards. It, quite simply, works really well. There’s a tonne of music-streaming options for newcomers, there’s the stable Engine DJ OS for ease of performance, there are balanced XLR outputs for decent master signals, and there are some gratifyingly medium-sized jog wheels to work with.

The on-board speakers are a bit pithy, but at this price – which is, I might add, less than two-thirds the price of the next standalone DJ controller – who’s counting? The mixer interface might feel a bit cramped thanks to that large screen, but it’s small beers for a mid-sized controller that does it all.

Glossary

Audio interface: A device which interprets electrical audio signals to convert them in digital information, and vice versa. Many DJ controllers are audio interfaces, in that they both receive digital information from DJ software in order to convert it into audio, and enable the input of audio (typically through a mic input) into the same software.

Beatmatching: The practice of matching the tempo of one song with the tempo of another, on the beat, so they can play synchronously – enabling you to transition from one to the next smoothly.

Belt-drive: Wherein a turntable platter is rotated using a rubber belt, linked to a separate motor. Some DJ controllers use belt-drive motorised platters to mimic the feel of real turntables.

Crossfader: A fader used to simultaneously reduce the volume of one deck and increase the volume of another, enabling swift transition from one to the next and back again. Crossfaders are more commonly used for turntablism, in tandem with scratches to create rhythmic, re-mixed compositions.

Cue: The setting-up of a track to play from a certain point; also relates to the headphone cue mix, which is an auxiliary mix that enables you to hear audio separate from the master output (including tracks you’re preparing to play).

DVS: Stands for Digital Vinyl System. DVS is a system by which vinyl records, stamped with timecode, control digital files through interpretation of the timecode as read by a turntable stylus.

EQ: Stands for equalisation, referring to the adjustment of audio frequencies on a DJ controller’s mixer channels. Three-band EQs are found as standard on most modern DJ mixers, allowing smooth blends between tracks by ‘swapping’ bands – e.g.: reducing the low end on one track to remove the drums and bass, making room for the drums and bass of the next.

Fader: A linear potentiometer, that enables you to increase or decreases a parameter by moving a slider along it. Faders are used for channel volumes, the crossfader, and tempo adjustment for each deck.

Filter: An effect that allows expressive EQing of a track for creative purposes; high-pass and low-pass filters are used to make a track thin or woolly, to emphasise a new section or to enable a transition.

FX: Stands for effects. DJ controllers enable you to control the addition and adjustment of effects like delay and reverb to a given mixer channel, or to the master output; these effects are used as performance tools, to enhance a track or to enliven transitions between songs.

Hot cue: A user-set point on a digital audio file, to which you can jump using the performance pads on your DJ controller. Hot cues are set using your DJ software, and make recalling start-points or changes in tracks easier live.

Jog wheel: The large-scale incremental rotary encoders either side of a DJ controller’s mixer, that are used to scrub through, nudge or otherwise manipulate tracks loaded to their respective decks. Most jog wheels are touch-sensitive, to allow two types of operation: scrubbing and scratching using the face, and momentary tempo adjustment using the edges.

Master: The final output from your DJ controller’s mixer, which is sent to your speakers or PA system by way of RCA or XLR ports.

Performance pads: Buttons found in the deck portion of a DJ controller, typically velocity-sensitive, which provide control over hot cue points, looping, sequencing and, in some cases, drum programming.

Platter: Typically the plate that sits atop a turntable, around the spindle, and which holds vinyl records to be played. Jog wheels stand in for turntable platters on conventional DJ controllers; some DJ controllers use motorised platters with stand-in discs on top, to simulate the feel of a real turntable.

RCA: A class of connector, often also referred to as phono, that presents as two coaxial ports – red and white respectively – on the back of a DJ controller.

Scratch: A DJ technique in which tracks are scrubbed back and forth, to create a rhythmic sound.

Stem separation: Digital technology which detects and separates different aspects of a track, enabling you to isolate different instruments for enhanced mixing or mashing-up.

Tempo: The speed at which a track plays, measured in beats per minute (BPM).

XLR: A class of audio connector, used for balanced outputs on the rear of pro DJ controllers. These enable clean connectivity to a venue PA system or audio interface.

How to choose

Choosing the right beginner DJ controller is not a task for the faint of heart – not when there’s such a huge variety of controllers on the market, all of which purport to do something different. To make your early forays into DJing that little bit smoother, let’s go through some of the essential criteria for you to bear in mind when picking the right device.

What kind of DJ do you want to be?
Different beginner DJ controllers have different feature sets and control surfaces, that benefit different styles of DJing. If you’re a selector first and foremost, you won’t be after much besides some decent jog wheels, channel EQs, effects for occasional transitions and maybe some performance pads for hot cues.

If you fancy yourself as more of a club DJ, even a performance DJ, then you might find more value in involved producer-friendly features, like stem separation, sequencing and even drum replacement. If scratching, cutting and general turntablism appeal, then something with motorised platters instead of jog wheels will give you a more tactile way of practicing without having to buy turntables and records galore (for now, at least).

What’s your budget?
While a pair of Technics 1210s or a top-flight set of Pioneer CDJs is clearly a tempting proposition for any DJ, the price of entry alone is enough to give you pause for thought as a starter-outerer. Thankfully, with the humble DJ controller, you can stave off at least some of the costlier aspects to DJing until later in your journey (brace yourself, though, for spend incalculable sums you one day will).

That said, DJ controllers still run the gamut when it comes to price – and some of those prices may well extend past your budget. Obviously, cheaper DJ controllers compromise with respect to features, so the balancing act is between your style of DJing and what you can afford.

What kind of software do you want to use?
DJ controllers are, for the most part, control-surface extensions of DJ software and the features they contain – and as such, many DJ controllers throw themselves in with a specific software, so as to offer more in-depth controls. Pretty much every plug-in DJ controller can be convinced to work as a MIDI controller with different software, but this is a fiddly process and can be difficult for beginners.

Far better, then, to figure out which DJ software speaks to you more, and to buy a beginner DJ controller that works best with that software. Unless you already have one, that is! All DJ software achieve the same essential things, being library management and performance interfaces; different apps have different strengths though. Check out the FAQ section if you’d like a little more of a low-down on the strengths of the major DJ software with which most budget DJ controllers are compatible – rekordbox, Serato, Traktor and djay.

At home, or on the go?
The next question is where you want to use your DJ controller. If you’re solely practicing at home, it might not matter how large the controller is; in fact, you might prefer a larger control surface with bigger jog wheels, and more on-board features, like the AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6.

If you’re hoping to practice or prepare your sets on the move, you’ll want something smaller and more portable. There are compact DJ controllers like the Numark DJ2GO2 Touch, designed to sit comfortably in your bag with your laptop, and there are also battery-powered controllers like the Hercules DJ Control Mix Ultra, designed for on-the-go mixing with a smartphone or tablet.

Just for practice, or for gigging too?
Lastly, what are you hoping to get out of your DJ controller? They are indispensable learning tools, powerful set-preparation peripherals, casual party-mixing devices and professional gigging tools altogether – or they can be, depending on the specs you plump for.

If you’re only ever going to use your DJ controller in your bedroom, to play around or to practice for using house equipment at venues, you won’t need more than a simple controller with an RCA out for the master. If you want to use your DJ controller as part of a gigging rig, to play out at parties or clubs, then you’ll want something with more I/O for better, cleaner connectivity with PA systems and booth monitors.

FAQ

How we choose products for this guide

Here at MusicRadar, we are experts in our field, with many years of playing, creating and product testing between us. We live and breathe everything music gear related, and we draw on this knowledge and experience of using products in live, recording and rehearsal scenarios when selecting the products for our guides.

When choosing what we believe to be the best beginner DJ controllers available right now, we combine our hands-on experience, user reviews and testimonies and engage in lengthy discussions with our editorial colleagues to reach a consensus about the top products in any given category.

First and foremost, we are musicians, and we want other players to find the right product for them. So we take into careful consideration everything from budget to feature set, ease of use and durability to come up with a list of what we can safely say are the best beginner DJ controllers on the market right now.

Find out more about how we test music gear and services at MusicRadar.

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With more than 17 years of experience, MusicRadar is the premier music-making website in the world. Run by musicians for musicians, we offer expertly written gear round-ups and high-quality, authoritative reviews by an extensive team of highly experienced industry professionals.

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Pioneer DJ is launching two new DJ controllers for Serato users, the DDJ-REV1 and DDJ-REV7. Both aimed at battle-style DJs, they're each emulating a typical set-up based around two turntables and a mixer. 

The two controllers sit at opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to price and capability, with the $259 REV1 taking up the mantle as Pioneer's latest entry-level offering for beginner scratch DJs, and the $1,899 REV7 taking the top spot in their line-up of battle-style controllers. 

The REV7 is designed for use with Serato DJ Pro, and includes a ton of features that make it an ideal choice for experienced scratch DJs. The 7-inch motorized jog wheels are built to mimic the feel and motion of 12-inch turntables, and can be customized with slip sheets and torque settings to achieve the desired level of friction. 

There's also a display in the centre of each wheel that shows the waveform of the currently selected track, making both scratching and beatmatching easier than ever. The REV7 also includes 22 built-in Beat FX for producing dramatic and creative transitions, and a central mixer section that's based on Pioneer's DJM-S series of mixers. 

On the other end of the spectrum, the REV1 offers a more limited feature set, while still providing a decent set-up for an entry-level DJ. DJs looking to take advantage of the Beat FX or sample triggering on the REV1 will need to hook up with their computer, unlike the REV7 which has these features built in. 

The REV1 is designed or use with Serato DJ Lite, rather than Pro, and offers significantly less in the realm of I/O options. However, it's kitted out with Paddle FX levers, eight performance pads, a three-band EQ and dual-pass filter for each channel - not bad for a controller under $300.

Both the REV1 and the REV7 take advantage of a new feature from Pioneer called Track Scratching, which automatically jumps back to the selected cue point when the DJ moves the jog wheel backwards, or takes their hand off the controller. This removes the need for using the crossfader, and should make scratching a little easier to get to grips with. 

Find out more about the DDJ-REV1 and DDJ-REV7 on Pioneer DJ's website.

It’s never been easier to DJ. Preparing a set once meant months of saving to afford 7 and 12-inch records, but today it’s possible to move hearts and minds with little more than a streaming service subscription – and the right hardware, of course. That's where this guide t the best DJ controllers for all budgets comes in.

Technology has trivialised problems older-school selectors never knew they had, heralding an age of tool-assisted digital audio mix-mastery. Vinyl DJing is never going away, but a new era of digitalised DJing has been here for some time, and isn’t set to budge either.

With that new era comes a new set of tools and skills that change the game for DJs altogether. Stem separation, live on-the-fly remixing, integrated light-show control, and on-demand audio streaming are all part and parcel of this new wave, enabled by the latest iterations of DJ software and the hardware controllers that control them.

Whether you’re an old hand with a 45 or a new DJ exploring your options, there’s a great deal of value to investing in a DJ controller. They’re powerful tools for practice, excellent alternatives for portable performance, and an easy route to recording or streaming your own mixes, whatever your setup. You just need to make sure you pick the right one – which is precisely what this guide to the best DJ controllers is designed to do.

If you'd like to know my top pick before diving into my full selection below, I've stuck with the Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX10. It's a little on the pricey side, but it's crammed full of features and is, in my opinion, simply the best DJ controller on the market.

For more information, take a look through my FAQ section and I've also included a glossary highlighting the key terms you'll come across when shopping for a new DJ controller.

Best overall

The lowdown: Pioneer is the big name in DJ tech, largely for the sheer ubiquity of Pioneer gear in professional and public-facing setups. Pioneer’s CDJs were game-changing, earning the brand and its ever-expanding ecosystem a central role in the shape of tech to come. Pioneer’s DJ controllers are, generally, small-format translations of this same ecosystem; the FLX10 is Pioneer’s latest flagship in this space, designed for plug-and-play use with both rekordbox and Serato DJ.

Features: This is a four-channel, four-deck DJ controller for use with rekordbox or Serato DJ; owning it unlocks some of the more powerful paid features of either platform, which can be controlled via some nifty hardware-control additions to the interface. Among these, you’ll find dedicated buttons for stem separation, isolation and stem-specific effects capabilities.

On the visual front – a rare consideration for DJ controllers – the FLX-10 boasts jog wheel displays capable of showing detailed waveforms, deck info, track artwork or your own DJ logo. The controller also adds a DMX output on the rear, allowing it to connect directly to a lighting rig for control via rekordbox’s Lighting function, which is a paid extra.

Build quality: This is one of the more solid-feeling DJ controllers out there, a reliably pro-grade piece of kit that’s just at home behind a booth as it is at home. The jog wheels are decently sized and have the same ‘jog feel’ tweakability as the CDJ-2000 series. There’s high-quality Magvel crossfaders here, too. It’s almost the platonic ideal control interface for DJs, and somewhat bombproof to boot.

Performance: ‘Almost’ is an important word for the FLX10, mainly for the centralised presence of stem separation and isolation features. They may be the future, very much now, but they’re also not at the centre of every DJ’s new practice. Still, while elements of Pioneer’s design divide opinion, it still inarguably offers some of the slickest and tightest control designs going. And the FLX10, in practice, is sleek as they come.

Best budget

The lowdown: If a four-figure, four-channel pro-grade DJ controller is a little out of reach, you may be after something a little more restrained – and a lot more budget-friendly. Enter the DDJ-FLX4, an entry-level DJ controller that delivers the same crucial capabilities as its larger, more feature-packed DJ-controller siblings, but in a smaller, simpler and friendlier little package.

Features: The Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 is a two-channel, two-deck DJ controller, and one of the cheaper models in the Pioneer/Alphatheta ecosystem. It’s a step up from the ultra-basic FLX2, and a perfectly capable little unit. Each channel has three-band EQs, there are eight performance pads for each deck, and all the loop-related CDJ-ish gubbins you’d want for performance besides.

It's compatible with multiple DJ software platforms, including rekordbox and Serato DJ, but it will ultimately play best with rekordbox. That's because it has hardware buttons to access rekordbox’s Smart Mixing features along with effects and interventions designed to make it far easier for beginners to find their way through a mix.

You can use the Smart Fader to automatically adjust EQ, BPM and volume on tracks during a transition, or apply various clever effects using Smart CFX.

Build quality: The Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 isn’t the most robust of DJ controllers featured in this guide. Per its budget price point, it’s quite lightweight, with a decently-solid plastic chassis. Everything’s on the smaller side to accommodate a greater level of portability, too, which might give some larger hands or precision enthusiasts pause for thought. Still, it’s a capable piece of kit, and outclasses many other budget DJ controllers too.

Performance: The DDJ-FLX4 is a great little platform, despite some of the limitations it has with respect to other, more feature-packed controllers. It’s intuitive and comfortable to use even with its smaller footprint, and it’s happy to blend into whatever setup you have (albeit, without its own dedicated inputs or booth output). Anyone can get a serviceable mix out of the FLX4, though it is more suited to newcomers who are looking for a great beginner DJ controller.

Best pro controller

The lowdown: Rane is one of the premier brands in the DJ world, in large part for its world-renowned DJ mixer designs. It remains the brand of choice for bespoke and top-flight DJ setups in listening bars and music-first DJ venues globally. Though its solid presence in the DJ controller market doesn't carry the same stoic reverence as those early analog mixers, there’s still a great deal of healthy regard for what Rane’s doing – and the Rane Four is the logical conclusion to that regard.

Features: Rane’s Four DJ controller is, as the name might suggest, all fours. Four channels, four-deck control, four lots of inputs, and four out of four performance. Well, that last one’s me, but still. The Rane Four is a modestly-sized, forward-thinking DJ controller of techy excellence, which embraces the new stem-splitting tech of Serato DJ via dedicated Stem Split buttons and control over Stem FX.

The Four is crammed with features too, including on-board effects, control over mixer parameters and more. It's also nicely expandable, with ins-and-outs that allow the user to connect analogue inputs such as turntables, or additional controllers such as the Rane Twelve.

Build quality: The Rane Four is one of the best-constructed DJ controllers around. It’s impressively built, and in possession of some remarkably sturdy controls too. I’m a huge fan of the removable Mag Four crossfader, echoing the chop-and-changeability of standalone DJ and battle mixers.

Performance: The Rane Four performs admirably. As a four-deck controller, managing tracks and mixing between them is seamless. With Serato’s pioneering (sorry, Pioneer) stem separation algorithms, the Rane Four is even more practical; dedicated stem split buttons let you spread a track across two channels, to mess with as you please. Another winner is the on-board Rane effects, supplied independently of Serato and letting you benefit from performance FX without a laptop (if you were using the Four as just as mixer, for instance).

Best for scratching

The lowdown: Rane is a well-regarded brand across the DJ landscape, but it curried a great deal of its favour from collaborations and consultations with turntablists and scratch DJs – meetings-of-minds which led to some of Rane’s most popular products. That pedigree very much remains with the brand, as demonstrated by easily the best DJ controller for scratch DJs on the market – the Rane One MkII.

Features: The Rane One MkII is a second-generation scratch-DJ controller, and one which only improves on the form of its predecessor. The Rane One MkII sports 7.2” motorized platters, which provide real force feedback to you in the same way that a real record would. This is the big sell, but the MkII has some other clinchers in its arsenal – including a suite of 29 onboard Rane effects, serviced by an OLED screen for easy navigation and parameter shifts. This is on top of the extensive hardware-controlling of Serato’s powerful stem separation capabilities.

Build quality: The Rane One MkII is without peer. It’s astonishingly robust, and really trustworthy as a piece of DJing kit. The feel of the platters is great under-hand, the faders are excellent – particularly the feather-light Mag Four crossfader, which can be tensioned to your liking with ease.

Performance: To use, the Rane One MkII is a delight. The sheer volume of potential might be a little spooky at first glance, but the controls are deeply intuitive and ergonomic too. It’s easy to fly around this thing, and with every conceivable control being linked to a dedicated button or interaction, everything feels more like a performance than anything else.

Best all-in-one

The lowdown: Pioneer has an outsized impact on this guide for a reason. It’s all over the DJ market, with various products that all meet an industry standard in one way or another. This all-in-one, the Pioneer XDJ-RX3 is the top-flight transitional DJ controller for nascent mix-masters, being the latest in the leg-up RX series designed to graduate DJs from the world of entry- to mid-budget desktop controllers.

Features: This is a two-channel, two-deck standalone DJ controller. You can use a rekordbox-formatted USB (or, more accurately, two rekordbox-formatted USBs) to mix directly on the controller; a central 10.1” touchscreen shows you waveforms for both channels, and allows you to navigate your folders and playlists just as you would on a CDJ. However, there’s also a USB-B port on the back, that allows you to control rekordbox or Serato DJ on your computer. In this way, you have a lot of freedom with respect to setup.

That freedom extends to the I/O, too, where each mixer channel has separate RCA inputs for line and phono. If you have extra CDJs or even turntables, your two-deck DJ controller just (sort of) became a four-deck one. Throw in two combo TRS/XLR inputs for mics or line inputs, two further stereo aux inputs, and three flavours of output (two masters and a booth output) and that’s already more than you might actually need.

Build quality: As with practically any DJ controller, there’s a lot of plastic here. It understandably feels a little cheaper than the standalone CDJs it seeks to borrow from – but the buttons and faders are all on form. The encoder and buttons for navigating menus are nice and solid, and the unit feels robust.

Performance: To use, the Pioneer DJ XDJ-RX3 feels, in a word, familiar. It shares a great deal in common with the CDJ-plus-Pioneer-mixer setups of most clubs and venues, making it a friendly control surface to those that have used them before. It’s also a serious graduation from the simplified control surfaces of even the best budget DJ controllers. Navigation is easy, effects are fun to use, and the jog wheels are seriously comfortable.

Best for iOS

The lowdown: Reloop’s budget-friendly turntables are a regular find in beginner vinyl DJ setups, and compellingly priced for their capabilities too. But they’ve also been intervening in the DJ controller market since the late 2000s, albeit not to much fanfare. However, the Mixon 8 Pro deserves a great deal for its uniquely brilliant specialism.

Features: Reloop’s Mixon 8 Pro is a hybrid DJ controller that’ll play well with just about anything that runs Serato or algoriddim’s djay – but which seems especially well-designed for use with iPads. It’s an extremely dense box of tricks, from a bevy of analogue inputs and outputs to some forward-thinking per-track effects controls.

The big feature win for me is the commitment to four-deck potential, by virtue of those phono and line inputs on the rear. To be able to hook up turntables to this thing is a power move. The Mixon 8 Pro is also designed to support DVS – a major control-option upgrade on the predecessor Mixon 4, that makes this a rewardingly redundancy-friendly DJ controller.

Build quality: The Mixon 8 Pro is a very suave-feeling controller, and satisfyingly well put-together. It’s a far cry from the thin, light, cheap and otherwise uninspired toy-like designs we’ve seen for tablet-friendly DJ controllers. And that tablet friendliness extends to some thoughtful product design, by way of the slotted rear dock for holding your iPad.

Performance: The Reloop Mixon 8 Pro is a hard thing to fault. It’s extremely ergonomic, and also boasts some top-shelf features that are always winners for DJs. The jog wheels, while small, feel comfortable – and are big enough to squeeze some handy central screens in too. The performance pads are big and comfy, and the transport buttons are responsive. It’s a tactile thing – and the pair of USB inputs for dual-connectivity to different devices makes back-to-backing easy.

How to choose a DJ controller

The DJ controller market is big and full of options covering a broad range of prices. This makes it difficult to make out the clear frontrunners, particularly if you’ve got wants and needs of your own to cover. Let the following guide your thinking a little:

1. Software
Given we’re talking about physical DJ hardware, some might find it odd that software would be the first discriminating factor in choosing the best DJ controller for you. It’s for good reason, though; most DJ controllers are designed to play well with a specific piece of DJ management or performance software, meaning you need to be on the same page to get the most out of a given controller’s features.

Most controllers will have some functionality with multiple DJ software, and almost all can be configured to work with anything via MIDI mapping – but for the simplest, smoothest user experience, you want a DJ controller that talks to your favourite software.

The big two are Pioneer’s rekordbox, and Serato DJ, but other options like Algoriddim’s djay Pro are also available. Since Pioneer CDJs are the de-facto industry standard for clubs and venues, rekordbox and rekordbox-compatible DJ controllers are the most popular choice for gigging DJs. Serato DJ, though, is better-regarded for its DVS capabilities, control interface and stem separation technology.

2. Interface
The primary purpose of a DJ controller is to act as a tactile control surface for your DJing – and that control surface has to meet your preferences for it to be a worthwhile purchase. There are many variables between DJ controller designs, and some specific variables may speak to your own wants and needs.

For instance, smaller DJ controllers save space by using smaller jog wheels and short-throw faders, a trade-off that some would prefer; others, though, might prefer larger jog wheels that more accurately reflect club DJ setups.

There’s also the matter of specific interface features, that might not be common to all DJ controllers. If you’re a budding turntablist, you’ll want a DJ controller that gives feedback similar to cutting and scratching with real vinyl – which means plumping for a DJ controller with motorized platters.

3. Portability
Portability is its own criteria, too – and one which can be a major deciding factor for what makes the right DJ controller. All DJ controllers are portable to an extent, but some are more suitable to on-the-go mixing than others.

Larger, flagship DJ controllers such as the Pioneer DDJ-FLX10 are full-featured, but also require a separate power adapter to their USB connectivity – that is, they can’t receive bus power vis USB. Other controllers make physical design decisions that support portability, and can run via USB bus power too – meaning less cables, quicker setup and more portability besides.

4. I/O
Connectivity options can vary wildly from DJ controller to DJ controller. The vast majority sport main and headphone outputs, but some go a step further with a dedicated booth output, or a recording output.

Pro-grade DJ controllers are there as a holistic solution, a stand-in for club-level systems that incorporate CDJs and a central mixer; as such, they’ll sport some of the same inputs as a standalone DJ mixer, including phono/line inputs for turntables or additional decks, and even a separate mic/line input and channel for voice overdubs or auxiliary input.

5. Price
Budget is ultimately unavoidable as a consideration, particularly when the best DJ controllers can command a considerable cost premium. This value comes from the build quality, and the complexity of the hardware feature-sets on display. How much you’re willing to put towards your next DJ controller should depend on which features are non-negotiable; if you have no intentions of building a physical media library, you won’t need something with phono inputs for turntables.

FAQ

Glossary

Audio interface: A device that receives audio to convert it to digital information, and vice versa. In DJ controllers, this presents as the output of audio from DJ software through dedicated main, headphone and monitor outputs.

Beatmatching: The practice of matching the tempo of one song with the tempo of another, on the beat, so they play in time – thus allowing you to transition between one and the other.

Crossfader: A horizontal fader used to switch seamlessly between the output of one deck and the output of another. In the middle of its throw, the crossfader enables both tracks to play at the same volume, and at either end, only one track is audible. Crossfaders are more commonly used in tandem with scratches by turntablists.

Cue: The setting-up of a track to play from a certain point; also, a secondary mix channel that enables you to audition audio and effects in your headphones, separately from the master output.

DMX: Stands for Digital Multiplex, referring to a communications protocol that enables digital control of lighting systems.

DVS: Stands for Digital Vinyl System. DVS is a system by which vinyl records, stamped with timecode, control digital files through interpretation of the timecode as read by a turntable stylus.

EQ: Stands for equalisation. Relates to the performative adjustment of different audio frequencies to control the energy of a mix, or the strength of a blend. Smooth blends are accomplished between tracks by ‘swapping’ EQ bands, for instance pulling out the low end on one track to make room for the bass and drums of another.

Fader: A linear potentiometer that enables you to increase or decreases a parameter by moving a slider. Faders are used for channel volumes, the crossfader, and tempo adjustment for each deck.

Filter: A powerful, creative one-knob tilt-EQ effect.

FX: Stands for effects, which are used to enhance DJ performances or enable creative blends. Effects are typically found in DJ software, but some DJ controllers have built-in effects hardware. Effects can be applied on a per-channel basis, but also to stems extrapolated from a digital audio file in certain software.

Hot cue: A user-set point on a digital audio file, that enables easy access to parts of a song via performance pads on a DJ controller.

Jog wheel: The platter-sized rotary encoders either side of the mixer on a DJ controller. These are stand-ins for vinyl platters, or the jog wheels on standalone CDJs, used to navigate and manipulate tracks loaded to their respective decks. Most jog wheels are touch-sensitive, to allow two types of operation: scrubbing and scratching using the face, and momentary tempo adjustment using the edges.

Master: The final output of your DJ controller, to be supplied to your speakers or PA system. The master output is typically an array of stereo RCA or XLR ports.

Mixer: Receives and mixes audio from disparate sources, to produce a master output. DJ controllers have mixer sections, some of which are outfitted as standalone mixers; as well as controlling the volume of channels of digital audio, as routed through the decks, the mixers can receive analog audio from other decks or even turntables.

Motorized platter: A powered, rotating form of jog wheel, which controls and manipulates digital media but with the feel of a real vinyl record on a platter.

Performance pads: Velocity-sensitive buttons or touchpads found above or below the jog wheels, which provide control over hot cue points, looping, stems and other forms of creative programming or mixing – dependent on the brand and feature-set of the DJ controller.

RCA: Also referred to as phono, being a standard of coaxial connector. Stereo RCA connectors are pairs – red and white respectively – that supply each channel of stereo audio.

Rekordbox: A form of DJ software developed by Pioneer. rekordbox is the file management software of choice for working DJs, since club systems are typically Pioneer – and rekordbox-formatted USBs can be used on any Pioneer system.

Serato: Another form of DJ software, which in its early years pioneered the DVS format of DJing. Serato is widely loved for its control interface, forward-thinking stem separation algorithms and DVS utility.

Scratch: A DJ technique in which tracks are scrubbed back and forth, to create a rhythmic sound.

Stem separation: Digital technology which extrapolates individual instruments and elements from a master track. Stem separation enables you to isolate different elements for creative blends and live re-mixing.

Tempo: The speed at which a track plays, measured in beats per minute (BPM).

Waveform: A visual representation of a song’s dynamic range, displayed by DJ software to give an indicator of beat, song length and dynamics.

XLR: A class of audio connector, used for balanced outputs on the rear of pro DJ controllers. These enable clean connectivity to a venue PA system or audio interface.

How we choose the best DJ controllers

There’s only really one sensible way to test a DJ controller, and that’s to get hands-on and mix with it. That’s exactly what our team of reviewers do whenever trying out a new DJ device.

However, we’re aware that not all DJs perform in the same way, so we do our best to get into the mindset of as many different styles of DJ as possible to investigate how each might get on with any particular controller. We ask how each feels for long, slow mixes, how the crossfader and jogwheels feel for quick cuts and performance, how any pads, EQs or effects controls respond in a performance setting.

A key factor too, as with any musical controller, is how well the device interacts with its intended software. Does it feel tight and responsive? Do the controls offer easy access to all the most important elements of the application? A good controller should keep you away from the mouse and screen and let you feel connected to your music. That’s exactly what we’re looking for when we’re testing a new DJ controller.

Read more about how we test music making gear and services at MusicRadar.

Why you can trust us

With more than 17 years of experience, MusicRadar is the premier music-making website in the world. Run by musicians for musicians, we offer expertly written gear round-ups and high-quality, authoritative reviews by an extensive team of highly experienced industry professionals.

We also interview world-renowned musicians and stars about their creative processes and the nuts and bolts of their gear and technique. This gives fans an insight into the actual craft of music-making that no other music website can.

But that's not all. We also provide excellent tuition, from bite-sized tips to advanced techniques and guidance from recognised musicians.

As well as delivering high quality written reviews and features, we also produce a wealth of video content on YouTube. MusicRadarTV is where you'll find all of our access-all-areas interviews, hot gear demos and exclusive video lessons.

Below you'll find more information on the authors of this guide.

Meet the experts

Latest updates

Read more:

• Our pick of the best DJ headphones available today
• Upgrade your rig with the best DJ speakers
• The best DJ turntables: top decks for vinyl DJs
• How to DJ on a laptop: a beginner's guide
• Check out the best beginner DJ mixers
• Essential DJ accessories for the studio to the booth
• Our pick of the best gifts for DJs

What is it?

Roland surprised a lot of beatmakers this past month with the announcement of the new SP-404 Mark 2, which sees the iconic sampler getting greatly expanded in a number of ways. Previous versions of the 404 have been instrumental in the LA beat scene, where the combination of affordability and ease-of-use made the machine a favourite of many, both on stage and in the studio.

Part of what made the 404 so easy to use was that it was fairly limited in what it could do. Even though previous versions included a sequencer, most users bypassed the sequencer altogether and recorded their beats in real time by tapping on the pads and resampling the result. Given the bevy of built-in effects that also can be applied to the built-in input, the 404 became a quick way to take your source material and flip it on its head. While later versions of the 404 increased some functionality, this Mark 2 is a completely new machine.

There is now 32 voice polyphony, 160 samples per project, and 16 projects in all, which mean a greatly expanded SP. Most important is the addition of a new OLED screen, which replaces the old LED screen which simply had a three number reference. The OLED screen holds a lot of information, particularly for waveform editing, something that was unheard of on old versions of Roland samplers!

RCA connections have been upgraded to ¼” jacks for both ins and outs. The addition of an SD port on the side makes this a very fully featured machine for how small the footprint is.

Power comes from three possible sources – an included AC adapter, six AA batteries, or through the USB-C port. Impressively, the USB-C port can also be used to connect the SP-404 mk2 directly to iOS devices and it allows it to act as an audio interface when connected to your computer. Like other recent devices in the Roland AIRA range, it’s possible to stream four inputs and 14 outputs via digital driver directly to your computer. Having a machine that is portable and battery powered while still having this digital capability is exciting for SP users indeed.

Roland SP-404 MKII: Performance and verdict

There are now 37 effects in total, including new bespoke input effects like guitar amp sim and vocoder. Like the other digital effects in Roland’s current lineup these sound great but don’t necessarily impart a ton of character. New on the mk2 is the addition of busses for routing the effects in several configurations. The busses can hold any of the 37 effects, and bus routing can be changed from serial to parallel for quick mix changes. The mk2 features 17 (not 16!) velocity sensitive pads (the 16 pads plus the Sub Pad) – these work well given their smaller size and are fully capable of bashing in your beats. Mute groups, customised sample playback settings per pad, and roll settings per pad make this a very capable sample performance machine.

One of the most interesting additions to the new mk2 is what Roland has dubbed Skip Back mode. Essentially, Skip Back mode means that the SP-404 mk2 is always recording audio in 25-second chunks. When you press the Mark button, the last 25 seconds of anything that you played are displayed as a waveform on the screen and can be saved, edited, or assigned to a pad. Never will you struggle to reproduce that sloppily played pattern you half-heartedly came up with, only to be lost in the sands of time!

The SP-404 mk2 has the addition of a new envelope function for your samples. The old version had no envelopes at all, so this is a huge improvement for sound sculpting and sound design and saves precious resampling time if you’re trying to create pad-like sounds.

It’s now possible to connect an iPhone or iPad and sample directly over the USB connection on the 404 mk2. Given that each sample can be up to 16 minutes long and that each project can hold up to 160 samples per project, this means that each project in the 404 mk2 can now be its own entire sonic universe. With the incredibly quick project load times, you can even store separate tracks in different projects and have a huge library of audio to work with.

Another new feature on the SP-404 mk2 that was inspired by the 404 community at large is a completely new DJ mode, which lets you play two different tracks/samples at once and even includes sync functionality. When in DJ Mode, the pad functionalities change to reflect what is screen-printed on the pads themselves. Each ‘channel’ has separate volume controls, the ability to nudge tempo up or down, and the ability to choose which channel goes to the headphone output, which can act as a separate Cue control.

Librarian app

Roland has given 404 heads even more connectivity through the new 404 mk2 Librarian app, which not only allows for sample management and editing, but also lets users import, export, and save full projects to and from their computer, greatly extending the usefulness of the device. The app also gives full control over sample playback mode, start and end point – essentially everything that you can do on the 404 but with the addition of seeing all of the parameters all at once, on the convenience of your screen.

Overall, Roland has given the 404 an upgrade without changing its core workflow, which is dependent on being able to do almost everything you need to without looking at the screen or menu diving (even though there is a bit of menu diving in this new iteration of the 404). Given the huge access to samples and sounds, the plethora of effects, and the new DJ mode and Skip Back Mode, a lot of beatmakers are going to find the SP-404 mk2 at the centre of their DAW-less setups.

OS v5.0 UPDATE

Roland's evergreen SP-404 mk2 is back again, and this time it returns with a new OS update, v5.0. You may be just as surprised as we were, as it's not as if Roland has been resting on its laurels with the 404 mk2. The last update, appropriately named v4.04, added a bevy of new functionality, including a useful loop mode, Koala App integration, a new sound generator and much, much more.

This new v5.0 update adds yet another wrinkle to the SP fold, as it turns the 404 mk2 into a deft controller for Serato DJ Pro and Lite. While some will be quick to exclaim that the 404 already came with a built-in DJ mode when it was first announced, this new v5 greatly expands what the SP-404 can control inside of Serato. DJ mode allowed the 404 to function as a mini DJ set-up, where it was possible to control volume and tempo levels, as well as assign cue outputs. But besides that, it was fairly limited.

However, with this v5.0 update, the SP-404 mk2 is essentially a small, albeit full-fledged, DJ controller for Serato, where almost any function you'd need in the software can be handled from the SP. Conveniently, because of the aforementioned DJ mode, all of the pads are already labeled for DJ functionality - play/pause, cue, sync, etc. All of these do what you'd expect—no big surprises here. Shift and bend + or - allows for manual scrubbing through your track, which is handy for finding that big drop. Knobs C1 and C2 still control volume of each respective channel, and C3 functions as a crossfader between them. Loading to decks, adding cue points and setting loops are also possible.

FX are still available while in Serato mode, which is a huge bonus and where the SP / Serato combination shines. It's also possible to use the SP-404 mk2 with Serato's Stem mode, which has the ability to separate your track into four stems, as has become de rigueur these days. The SP-404 automatically maps these four stems to the first and third columns of pads, allowing for quick remixing on the fly. This opens up a whole world of creative possibilities. It also assumes you already have access to Serato DJ Pro.

Not to be left out, Serato Studio, Serato's take on a production atmosphere, also gets hands-on control directly from the SP. Creating patterns, auditioning sounds, controlling effects, and much more are all possible, though it's a bit less intuitive than the connection that the 404 shares with Serato DJ because of the aforementioned button labeling.

All in all, this new update puts the SP-404 mk2 in a territory not a million miles away from Native Instruments' popular X1 controller, which could be seen across many a DJ booth in the early 2000s. The fact that a fully fledged sampler also hides within just shows how spoiled we are these days. How big of a draw this new v5.0 update is for you is going to greatly depend on whether or not you are already a Serato user (and already own an SP-404 mk2).

Is the fact that the SP can now control Serato going to draw in new users to both products? Who knows, but it's yet another layer of functionality inside an already incredibly capable product that keeps on finding ways to surprise us at every turn.

Hands-on demos

Roland

Alternatives

Specifications

Arturia KeyStep 37 review: What is it?

Arturia’s BeatStep and KeyStep MIDI keyboard controllers have carved a niche by spanning the realms of analogue and digital control arguably better than any other range. These are controllers for modern musicians who want to keep one foot in the analogue realm; combining the gates and triggers of classic CV sequencers with DAW-ready MIDI control and modern conveniences. In 2020, Arturia added an all-singing, all-dancing keyboard-come-sequencer to the line-up, in the multi-track KeyStep Pro. Now they’re rounding out the key-equipped side of the range with this, the mid-level Arturia KeyStep 37.

Elements of its counterparts are present: the keyboard itself is the same 37-note ‘slim key’ design as the KeyStep Pro, which has a nice feel for its size. As with that larger controller, it features a row of LEDs above the keyboard to display certain settings as well as chord/scale info. As with the original KeyStep, however, the 37 is single-track and is identical in terms of rear panel I/O, offering MIDI in and out, a sustain input and USB, plus analogue gate, CV and mod outputs along with analogue sync in and out.

• Explore more of the best cheap MIDI keyboards

Arturia KeyStep 37 review: Performance & verdict

All of the base KeyStep’s features are carried across. As with that controller, the KeyStep 37 features an eight-mode arp and a polyphonic sequencer with an eight-slot pattern memory. Both controllers feature a chord mode, and eight-note polyphony (compared to the Pro’s 16-notes), but here chords are considerably easier to input thanks to the addition of an LED screen and three dedicated rotaries. Here, there are now three ways to set up chord mode, either by selecting a preset chord using the Type rotary, manually inputting notes using the Notes rotary, or simply pressing the Chord mode button and holding down a chord shape on the keyboard.

Interestingly, the KeyStep 37 adds a couple of chord features absent from the Pro. These are Chord Strum, which will space notes in a chord out to emulate a guitar-like picking, and Velocity to Notes, which allows users to adjust the velocity for individual notes in a chord. There’s also a Scale Quantise feature, inherited from the Keystep Pro. 

The Chord mode rotaries also double up as assignable CC controls for manipulating parameters in a DAW or MIDI synth, which is a feature absent from the base-level KeyStep. There’s a four-bank memory for CC assignments, which is handy when jumping between controlling multiple instruments in the studio.

Given its place as a mid-point in the KeyStep range, it’s understandable that there’s nothing exactly game changing here, but it’s still another solid entry into Arturia’s controller range. It has a lot to appeal to users who want a touch more flexibility than the base model without the multi-track complexity of the flagship. As with other ‘Step controllers, digital compatibility works smoothly, and Arturia’s MIDI Control Centre allows for extra customisation and flexibility. A flexible mid-level controller with little not to like. 

Arturia KeyStep 37 review: Hands-on demos

Loopop

mylarmelodies

Arturia

Arturia KeyStep 37 review: Specification

• Key feature: 8-pattern sequencer, 8-mode arp, chord and scale modes, customisable CC control; I/O: MIDI in/out, sustain in, gate, CV and mod out, analogue sync in/out, USB
• Contact: Arturia

What is it?

Earlier this year, M-Audio introduced the Oxygen Pro 49, the latest revision to the ‘top end’ of its highly popular range of controller keyboards. Having modified the flagship model, thoughts clearly turned to the more affordable Oxygen range and, accordingly, here is the fifth gen of the four-octave Oxygen 49. 

Style-wise, the Oxygen 49’s corners are rounder, the OLED display of the Pro is replaced by a 3-segment LED display, whilst the 16 multi-coloured pads are stripped back to eight back-lit red ones. This affords more space to the Oxygen 49’s front panel, though is different to the ‘busier’ design of the flagship. 

Perhaps the biggest compromise is only having half of the assignable pads of its big sibling, though do note that the pads here are split into two banks of eight, so you do still have access to 16 sound sources from the front panel when programming beats, just not all 16 simultaneously.

Also absent is the dedicated MIDI Out port on the rear panel; MIDI connectivity and bus power are offered via USB, but if you were hoping to trigger MIDI hardware directly from the Oxygen 49, consider yourself warned. 

Perhaps the other biggest difference is that the Oxygen 49’s functions are mostly triggered via soft keys and via ‘secondary modes’ from the keybed itself. This is true to some extent on the Pro model too, though the buttons beneath the sliders are labelled there, providing immediate visual feedback and facilitating workflow more directly. 

Performance and verdict

Much of the new tech introduced with the Pro is adopted here too. So you’ll also find you have access to the Pro’s Smart Chord and Smart Scale modes which aid songwriting and composition by, in the case of Chord Mode, triggering whole chords (major and minor, depending on the key of your track), from a single key. 

In Scale Mode, you’ll find it impossible to trigger notes ‘outside’ of the key of your track, as keyboard playback adapts to reflect your chosen harmonic foundation. 

Also present are the Pro’s excellent Arpeggiator and Beat Repeat, so that stutters and repeats can be triggered from the pads. One slight gripe here; where the Note Repeat button is next to the pads on the Pro, its position just below the LED display here feels less intuitive. 

The Oxygen Pro 49 breathed new life into the Oxygen range and its new sibling is also feature-packed and creative. Much of the tech central to the ethos of the rebadged Oxygen range is present here too, with excellent DAW integration, an all-singing Arpeggiator, Chord and Scale Modes and more. 

As there isn’t a big price difference between this and the Pro, your decision will be how much cash to splash. Either way, you’ll get an impressive keyboard controller.

MusicRadar verdict: Look carefully at the ergonomics of this keyboard and the Oxygen Pro 49 and the extended feature set before deciding which is right for you.

Hands-on videos

M-Audio

Sanjay C

John Mike

Specifications

• 49 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys
• Preset and DAW buttons for auto-mapped DAW controls & plugin parameters
• Smart Chord mode, Smart Scale mode, Arpeggiator with Type, Octave, Gate and Swing controls
• 2 banks of 8 velocity-sensitive trigger pads with Note Repeat, 8 assignable knobs, 9 assignable faders
• Contact: M-Audio

Following Akai’s release of the ‘80s-themed MPC One Retro, Native Instruments has introduced a custom version of its own beat production hardware - Maschine Dinamo.

Essentially a Maschine Mk3 with a custom silver and black screenprint paint job, this is a collaboration with Swiss type foundry Dinamo, and features the design studio’s inktrap typeface on every surface. This is said to be a homage to “bold design and chunky aesthetics”.

Inktrap fonts originally included notches to stop bleed in early printing, but the purpose here is to control light bleed on Maschine’s laser-etched buttons.

You’ll also note that the typeface wraps the edges of the unit - said to be a double nod to the throw-up graffiti and marquee news tickers of the ‘80s and ‘90s, which also happen to be decades that kickstarted and popularised sample-based music-making.

Maschine Dinamo follows the launch of the special Timbaland Beatclub edition of NI’s Komplete Kontrol M32 MIDI keyboard.

Only 750 Machine Dinamos have been made, and you can buy one for £539 on the Native Instruments website (the same price as the standard model). 

BACK TO LIVE: The handy compact groovebox gets even more useful thanks to a pair of external sequencing tracks. Could it be your new live hub?

What is it?

This year’s Circuit Tracks is a direct follow-up to Novation’s original Circuit groovebox. Like its predecessor, it has both synth and sample sound engines - the former in the shape of two digital polysynths, the latter four tracks of relatively simple one-shot playback. 

The highlight is the sequencing workflow, which is fun and intuitive while still deceptively deep, with features like micro timing adjustments, probability and macro automation. This new version adds two MIDI tracks for sequencing external gear.

Why use it on stage?

Circuit Tracks is something of a compact melodic sequencing powerhouse. Between its synth and MIDI tracks it can independently sequence up to four polyphonic, MIDI-equipped instruments, with automatable macro controls which can output customisable CC messages to each. 

Melodic sequences can be up to 32 steps, and can be chained to create patterns of up to 256 steps - all of which can be saved and recalled using the internal memory. Handy for triggering multiple riffs or progressions on stage.

Any downsides?

Internal battery life is not great for shows, at around four hours, but fortunately it can run from USB power. The lack of a screen can be confusing too - the workflow is intuitive enough that you should be mostly covered, but maybe keep note of where your preset sounds or patterns are stored!

Setup ideas

There are full MIDI in, out and thru ports (which can act as a secondary MIDI out - good for live use!). MIDI in and USB can be used to receive clock messages, and an analogue pulse out can drive Volcas, modular gear, etc. A pair of audio inputs mean it can act as a basic summing mixer. It lacks faders for adjusting levels, but external audio can run through the internal reverb and delay or the sample track-driven sidechain and bi-directional, DJ-style filter.

Live tips and tricks

Expand its potential

Although Tracks’ sampler has only four channels, you can use automation to trigger a different sample on each step, significantly broadening the potential. 

Want to use it to play back elements of a complex beat or backing loop? Slice said loop into 8th or 16th note ‘steps’ in your DAW (be careful with crossover points to avoid clicks) then re-sequence them using Tracks. 

Not only does this allow you to play back complex loops using a single sample track, but you can get creative by live tweaking things like the sampler’s envelope decay or distortion amount.

Bring your sounds together

Tracks has a hidden global compressor, with just an on/off setting accessed by the Advanced Setup menu (hold down shift while turning the unit on). While it’s a very simple effect, it’s handy for adding an element of cohesion across multiple sounds, particularly when running external synths through the audio inputs. 

Combined with the sidechain ducking effect - which can also be applied to external audio - it makes Tracks a handy hub for summing multiple pad or chord sounds, glueing them together with a little compression and rhythmic sidechain pulsing, plus the ability to sweep the output using the filter.

Save time with templates

While you can customise the MIDI tracks’ Macros to output whatever CC suits your setup, Novation have created a handy set of templates (available via Components) that, generally speaking, provide mappings for the most performance-friendly parameters for a whole host of popular hardware instruments.

BACK TO LIVE: Korg's Wavestate & Opsix digital synths put a modern spin on vintage sound engines - great for retro synthwave vibes with modern, performance-friendly conveniences.

What are they?

Released in early 2020, the Wavestate inaugurated a new Korg synth line - mid-sized instruments with 37-note keyboards, each presenting a modern update to a retro digital synth format. 

For Wavestate, that’s Wavesequencing 2.0; a deeper take on the sample sequencing and Vector synthesis of the company’s beloved Wavestation. Wavestate was followed by Opsix, a modernised version of DX-7-style FM synthesis. The pair are set to be joined by the forthcoming Modwave, which takes its cues from the wavetable-powered DW-8000.

Why use them on stage?

For their price and relatively light form factor, each of Korg’s new range offers impressive sonic power. Wavestate in particular is 64 voice and multitimbral, so it can provide plenty of richness to fill out a live sound. Both have several performance friendly tools onboard too, including a Smooth Sound Transition feature.

Any downsides?

The biggest downside is the lack of aftertouch; a shame, particularly for the Wavestate as it lends itself so well to expressive chords and pads. What’s more, while both have capable sound engines, they’re not what you’d call workhorses like a workstation or stage synth/pianos are. These are distinctive digital sound engines, so don’t expect them to cover every on-stage keyboard need.

Setup ideas

For electronic performances, both Opsix and Wavestate can be synced to an incoming MIDI clock, so users can trigger them in a slightly more ‘hands-off’ manner. 

With Wavestate, the complex Wavesequencing setup can effectively create long, evolving soundscapes that can be triggered by holding down a single note or chord - allowing you to get hands-on with the Mod Knob controllers. Opsix, meanwhile, features a handy sequencer which can easily be set up to play back pre-programmed riffs, basslines or chord progressions.

Live tips and tricks

Use the Setlist feature

Wavestate’s Setlist features lets users store and sequence up to 64 performances, which are full multitimbral patches complete with Wavesequences, arp patterns, Vector synthesis configurations and master effects - incredibly handy for planning and recalling sounds for a live set!

Don't judge the sequencer by its cover

Don’t be fooled by the simplistic look of Opsix’s sequencer, it has six note lanes, for polyphonic sequencing with individual velocity gate length for each note, plus six Motion Sequencing lanes for parameter automation. 

There are multiple playback directions available to users, including sequence randomisation, and the Key Trigger mode allows for sequences to be transposed across the whole keyboard spread.

Make the most of Mod Knobs

Despite being labelled with things like ‘time’ and ‘shape’, Wavestate’s Mod Knobs actually offer incredible flexibility over how they can be set up. There are eight assignable knobs per-program, plus a bank of global Performance assignments (although as all of these share a single bank of eight knobs, it can get a little confusing in the heat of a performance).

For live use, spend some time considering the best way to set these up in order to get quick access to parameters that will help add movement or build tension in your performance. Perhaps use the Performance Mod Knobs to add multitimbral filter sweeps or bursts of effects?

BACK TO LIVE: Getting back into the rehearsal room? Finishing that album in the studio? Or getting ready for a live show? Here’s just some of the products to help you get there.

Learn how the Roland Fantom can be the heart of your synth rig. Check out our VAD series V-Drums for the convenience of an electronic drum kit but with the stage presence of a full acoustic kit. Have a great authentic piano sounds from our clean and compact RD-88 stage piano. And access sounds of the past, present and future within minutes with Roland Cloud.

Fantom

 The Need To Create

FANTOM is a new kind of creative hub, made for rapid production and expressive performance. Inspiring onboard production tools and deep computer integration fuel an experience that feels intuitive, natural, and full of possibilities. The expandable sound engine delivers our best electronic and acoustic sounds, with the depth and control to combine and shape them in exciting new ways. And it’s built from premium materials, with a purposeful design, and the best 61-, 76-, and 88-note keyboards we’ve ever made.

• Seamless workflow with no confusing modes
• Expandable sound engine delivers authentic electronic and acoustic sounds
• Fresh hybrid sounds combining modern PCM, virtual analog, and a routable analog filter
• V-Piano technology for stunning realism and expression
• Scenes contain settings for all 16 layers, plus effects and patterns
• Deep integration with DAWs and softsynths and 16x3 stereo audio interface
• Multitrack clip-based sequencing with instant pattern recording and triggering
• TR-REC sequencer as found on classic Roland drum machines
• High-resolution controls with dedicated synth control section
• Massive DSP power for plenty of polyphony and smooth sound transitions
• All new 61-note semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch

Check out how Kebu uses the Fantom as the heart of his live performance. 

Roland V-Drums Acoustic Design

Pushing the frontiers of live drum performance.

When you need the glamour and presence of a full acoustic drum set on stage - but with the convenience and control of electronic drums - the Roland VAD series is the perfect solution. 

V-Drums Acoustic Design is a different kind of V-Drums experience, blending the physical presence of acoustic drums with Roland’s world-leading digital percussion technology. The authentic look and detailed craftsmanship of a premium acoustic drum kit is all here, with full-size wood shells and cymbals, beautiful finish options, and deluxe chrome hardware. You’ll feel like you’re playing an acoustic kit too, losing yourself in rich, immersive sound and organic response that inspires you to go deeper. V-Drums Acoustic Design delivers the acoustic vibe you know and love, powered by the expressiveness and playability that only V-Drums can provide.

See how Oli Wiseman (Anne Marie / Mabel) uses his kit... 

Roland RD-88

Take the Stage

RD pianos have been the choice of professional keyboardists for more than 30 years, appearing on stages around the world. Now you can have the acclaimed RD sound and playability in a lighter, more accessible, and more affordable instrument - the Roland RD-88.

• Lightweight and compact design for easy transport and setup
• Ivory feel piano-touch keyboard (PHA-4) for world-class playability
• New SuperNATURAL pianos and electric pianos based on acclaimed RD series
• Easy to use interface optimized for performance
• Three zones with external control and Apple MainStage integration
• Room-filling, onboard speaker system

For over three decades, RD pianos have been trusted by professionals, night after night, on stages the world over. One key reason is how playable they are, and how connected you feel when you play one. You get sturdy controls and smooth, reliable keyboard action that feels natural—never stiff, never spongy.

Roland Cloud

Sounds of past, present and future. Yours in minutes.

Use over 50 Roland virtual instruments. Embrace the future with ZENOLOGY. Share your sounds across software and hardware with the ZEN-Core Synthesis System. And keep your music fresh with genre-specific patches, patterns, and sound packs.

•  With a mastery of classic analog, vintage digital, and modern hybrid tones, ZENOLOGY’s roots go back to the dawn of synthesis. Its future will reshape your relationship with sound.
• Purchase a Lifetime Key and use your chosen instrument for as long as your Roland account is active - even if you’re not a paying member.
• Roland Cloud works with a variety of compatible Roland hardware. Share sounds with ZEN-Core-compatible gear including FANTOM and JUPITER-X. Host PLUG-OUTS in the SYSTEM-8 synth for computer-free performance. Or use your TR-8S or Roland Boutiques to control their software equivalents, with all controls mapping automatically.

Learn more or sign up here

For more information, head to Roland.com

Seemingly aimed at the beginner and house party markets, Numark has unveiled a couple of new DJ controllers in the shape of the Party Mix II and Party Mix Live.

These offer plug-and-play support for Serato DJ Lite and Algoriddim djay Pro - both of which can be used with certain streaming services - and come with all the features you need to start mixing. These include touch-sensitive jog wheels for scratching, performance pads and filter effect knobs.

However, what sets the Party Mixes apart from many of their affordable rivals is their ‘bonus’ features. Both come with three multi-coloured LEDs, so that you can create beat-synchronised light shows, and the Party Mix Live goes one step further by including built-in speakers, too.

As such, it’s a pretty comprehensive ‘all-in-one’ DJing solution, though it remains to be seen how good the speakers actually sound. They can be turned off when you don’t need them, though (as can the LEDs), and both controllers include main and headphone output jacks.

The Party Mix II costs $129/£90/€100, while the Party Mix Live can be had for $179/£125/€140. Find out more on the Numark website.

GEAR 2021: Rane says that its new One DJ controller is unique in the market in that it offers motorised 7-inch turntable platters that are designed to give you the true feeling of vinyl. As such, it promises “authentic, tactile control” over your music and performance.

There’s also a turntable-style start/stop button, along with multi-function performance pads that enable you to access hot cues, loops and other features in Serato DJ, which comes included. Radio-style effects can be triggered using dedicated buttons, enabling you to access combinations of effects with a single press, and each deck has its own 3-band dynamic EQ, high- and low-pass filters and dedicated loop controls.

• NAMM 2021 is cancelled, but we'll be covering all the big January gear announcements right here on MusicRadar.

Connectivity options include two USB laptop ports, giving you extra flexibility, while the line input can be switched to phono mode for plugging in turntables. There are main and booth XLR outputs, plus an additional RCA main out, while further inputs include two dual TRS/XLR mic inputs and an aux input.

Finally, the all-important crossfader is Rane’s Mag Four, billed as the company’s lightest and smoothest yet.

The Rane One will be available in the first quarter of this year priced at $1,499/£1,300/€1,500. Find out more on the Rane website.

• Our pick of the best DJ headphones available today

Digital DJing is getting ever-more affordable, and Numark’s new Mixtrack FX DJ controllers provide yet more good examples of this. The range includes the 4-deck Mixtrack Platinum FX and 2-deck Mixtrack Pro FX.

The Mixtrack Platinum FX features a pair of 6-inch jog wheels, each of which has a central display, and includes a 24-bit audio interface, six dedicated software effects buttons for easy transitions, and 16 performance pads for hot cues, auto loop, fader cuts and sampling.

The effects section includes echo, reverb, flanger, phaser and high/low-pass filters, and there are dual paddle triggers.

Mixtrack Pro FX is very similar in terms of design, but loses the 4-deck mixing option and doesn’t have the jog wheel displays.

“The key here - as with all Numark DJ products - is fun,” says Chris Roman, Senior Product

Manager for Numark. It’s fun to let your ideas and creativity flow with a controller whose features work with you instead of getting in your way. These new Mixtracks make you a better DJ, no matter where you are on the spectrum.”

Both controllers ship with a copy of Serato DJ Lite, which enables you to stream songs from Tidal or SoundCloud.

Mixtrack Pro FX and Mixtrack Platinum FX cost £215 and £245 respectively and will be available this month. Find out more on the Numark website.

• The best beginner DJ controllers for budding mix masters

Arturia’s KeyLab Essential 61 is a formidable MIDI controller, packed with intuitive features for keyboardists and producers alike. The KeyLab Essential series aims to facilitate software integration, with a plethora of software shortcuts and MIDI encoders that’ll have you cranking out tunes in no time.

Right off the bat, I was impressed by the KeyLab Essential 61’s design. In a world where many MIDI controllers seem cheaply made, Arturia certainly didn’t skimp on the construction of this keyboard. While it’s extremely light - weighing just over seven pounds, the controller feels sturdy and suitable for onstage and studio use.

• The best MIDI keyboards for beginner and pro musicians
• Best synthesizers: keyboards, module and semi-modular synths
• Best pianos: acoustic and digital pianos for beginners and pros

The back of the controller features an optional 9V DC power adapter jack, USB/MIDI out jacks, and a sustain pedal control input. While I’d prefer to have an additional expression pedal input, this certainly isn’t a deal-breaker. The KeyLab Essential series is geared toward efficiency, and the omission of this feature would only affect the most dedicated MIDI organists on the scene.

The Essential 61’s control surface is structured in a refreshingly intuitive manner. An informative LED screen and 360º preset selector is nested in the middle. On its left, MIDI transposition, drum pads, and transport controls are concisely arranged, and the drum pads double as software shortcuts. On the right-hand side, the controller features 9 endless encoder knobs and 9 fader controls.

Perhaps the most user-friendly feature of the KeyLab Essential 61 is its integration with the included software. Ableton Live 9 Lite and Arturia’s Analog Lab 2 are included with the controller, and its controls are automatically configured for both programs. The Analog Lab software makes use of Arturia’s fantastic software instruments, including their acclaimed recreations of classic vintage analog synths.

Using the included copy of Ableton Live Lite, I was able to easily use the pre-assigned controls to start working on a beat. Once configured, the KeyLab Essential 61’s second drum pad serves as a shortcut to your DAW, so you can dive right into the production process. Though transport controls are standard on most controllers, this controller goes above and beyond with extra controls for saving, undoing, punch recording, and toggling the metronome. An additional cool feature: the drum pads are backlit by colour-changing LEDs, and the transport’s “Record” button is backlit by a red LED for added contrast.

The KeyLab Essential 61’s LED screen is one of its best features. It’s far more informative than most other controllers on the market. The LED doesn’t simply show the data of the last MIDI control you moved; it also displays the name of the control and its CC value. The LED screen becomes even more useful when combined with Analog Lab and Ableton, displaying brief patch information and mappings.

The endless encoder knobs are wonderful, automatically remembering and picking up values from when they were last moved. The first four endless encoders are automatically mapped to filter cutoff, resonance, and LFO rate/amount within the included Analog Lab software, immediately enabling access to a wide range of tones on any given preset.

While I wish the MIDI fader controls were a bit sturdier, they certainly aren’t flimsy and their large rubber control surfaces make it easy to adjust parameters. These are also automatically mapped to the amplifier and filter envelopes in Analog Lab.

In comparison to other MIDI controllers on the market, the KeyLab Essential 61’s action is fantastic. I’d prefer a slightly smoother action overall, but this keybed is certainly nothing to complain about. Keys respond firmly and don’t click noisily after lifting your finger up, which is a common pitfall on so many controllers. In terms of MIDI velocity, the keys respond evenly across the dynamic range. You definitely won’t have any trouble bringing out dynamic contrast in your song or performance with this controller.

Verdict

Strengths
Solid, sturdy build in a lightweight package. Intuitive layout and controls, including 360º MIDI knobs and full DAW integration. Top-notch accompanying software for music creation and sound design.

Limitations
No MIDI expression pedal jack. MIDI faders could be a little more sturdy.

$249

www.arturia.com

NAMM 2020: Numark’s DJ2GO2 Touch is a pocket-sized DJ controller that promises the “full benefits” of a much larger one, and all for a pretty low price. This is the successor to the standard DJ2GO2, and is designed to sit nicely in front of a laptop.

Despite its small size, DJ2GO2 Touch includes two touch-capacitive jog wheels, meaning that it’s ready for scratching on. There’s also a built-in audio interface, and you can trigger hot cues, loops and sampler effects.

The controller ships with a copy of Serato DJ Lite for PC and Mac, which offers streaming support via Tidal and SoundCloud (subscriptions to those services permitting). 

DJ2GO2 will ship this month priced at $79.99/£69.99. Find out more on the Numark website.

• The best beginner DJ controllers for budding mix masters

Numark DJ2GO specs

• Touch-capacitive jog wheels for scratching and mixing
• Portable two-channel DJ controller for Serato DJ Lite (included)
• TIDAL and SoundCloud capability included
• Built-in sound card with headphone cueing to create the perfect mix
• Song navigation and channel and master gain controls
• DJs can map DJ2GO2 Touch with other popular DJ software
• Standard MIDI mapping for use with other popular DJ software
• Fits perfectly on top of any laptop
• 1⁄8-inch headphone output
• 1⁄8-inch main output

Native Instruments has introduced the Traktor Kontrol S3, a new DJ controller that slots into the company’s range between the S2 and S4 models.

Described as an “essential” four-channel controller, this performance-orientated device offers upsized jog wheels (though not with the haptic feedback of those on the S4), extended pitch and channel faders, and a mixer section with EQ, filter and Mixer FX controls. Each deck also has eight RGB pads for triggering hotcues, loops and samples.

The S3 contains an audio interface, too, and ships with the full version of Traktor Pro 3, Native Instruments’ DJ software. It can also be used to control the Traktor DJ 2 app on iPad and desktop machines.

The Traktor Kontrol S3 will be available in November priced at $649/£499/€599, and can be pre-ordered via the Native Instruments website.

Pioneer’s new DDJ-XP2 is a DJ controller for those who want to flex their performance muscles. Compatible with both rekordbox dj and Serato DJ Pro, it’s built around 32 multicoloured performance pads - 16 for each of the two decks.

The DDJ-XP2 promises to be sturdy, and thanks to its non-slip rubber surround, it should be able to take plenty of punishment without sliding around. In fact, Pioneer says that you can “hit it as hard as you want”.

Thanks to the new features in rekordbox dj and Serato DJ Pro, you can assign transport controls to the pads, too, and you can now use up to 16 pads to control a single mode (previously, the maximum number was eight).

Other feature highlights include the looping section from the DJM-S9 scratch mixer, and support for the new Silent Cue option in Serato DJ Pro. A pair of touch strips give you dynamic control of your effects, too.

The DDJ-XP2 will be available this month priced at £299/€329. Find out more on the Pioneer DJ website.

We’ve had 808 day, but Roland is now concerning itself with 707 - the DJ-707M DJ controller, to be precise. This is a four-channel, four-deck Serato DJ controller that offers flexible audio options for live performance.

The controller features a 24-bit/48kHz audio interface and Master, Booth and Zone outputs. Each of these has its own 4-band output EQ, multiband compressor and limiter. Settings can be saved and recalled as Scene presets.

What’s more, there’s built-in automatic feedback suppression; the controller ‘listens’ for and anticipates feedback, automatically adjusting the speaker output accordingly.

There are seven inputs that enable you to connect instruments or mics. Each channel has its own gain, low-cut switch and noise gate, plus effects. Dual USB inputs mean that you can run two instances of Serato on separate computers, mixing between the two of them, and you can also connect up an iOS device for music playback.

Of course, there are also plenty of DJ-friendly performance controls - you can create and trigger hot cues, loops, effects, 909- and 808-inspired drum patterns, and samples, as well as switch between four Serato decks. The Roland hardware effects can be assigned to the Filter/FX knob, and the standalone mixer means that you can use the DJ-707M without a computer.

All of this comes in a compact, metal package that Roland says is rugged enough to stand up to life on the road.

The DJ-707M will be available this month priced at $999. Find out more on the Roland website.

The worlds of fashion and DJing have just clattered into each other with the announcement of a collaboration between Pioneer and designer/DJ Virgil Abloh.

The results of this are transparent versions of Pioneer’s CDJ-2000NXS2 and DJM-900NXS2 DJ controllers, both of which will go on display under the Pioneer DJ c/o Virgil Abloh banner at the Figures Of Speech museum show in Chicago this summer.

Of course, what you really want to know is how and why these see-thru lovelies have been created, and we can tell you that it’s because “Abloh's desire to bridge the gap between music, fashion and the creative arts supports Pioneer DJ's drive to explore the deep connection music can make and the harmony it inspires.”

Abloh has previously served as Kanye West’s Creative Director - a demanding gig, we’d suggest - and founded fashion label Off-White. He’s recently been appointed as Men’s Artistic Director of Luis Vuitton, and has high hopes for his latest musical creation.

“As a means to give a new look and feel to the industry standard of the CDJ and DJM I aimed to design a see-thru and non-labeled rendition of the classic models to inspire a different sound while DJing. And perhaps a new way for music technology and human interaction to equal a different result,” he says.

Find out more about the new controllers on the Pioneer DJ c/o Virgil Abloh project landing page. Virgil Abloh’s Figures Of Speech exhibition takes place between 10 June and 22 September at the Chicago Museum of Modern Art.

It’s a fact that, as fewer people buy their music outright, more are consuming it through streaming services, so inevitably, the DJing sands are shifting, too.

More evidence of this comes with the launch of Pioneer DJ’s DDJ-200, an entry-level DJ controller that can be hooked up to your smartphone and used to mix music from streaming services.

The streaming services you can access will depend on which app you’re using to DJ with. Pioneer’s own WeDJ offers support for Beatport Link and SoundCloud (both of which require a subscription), but there’s also compatibility with Algoriddim’s djay, which offers Spotify integration, and the edjing Mix app, which works with Deezer.

The controller itself is a straightforward-looking twin-deck affair. If you’re using WeDJ, you can access its Tutorial and Transition FX features from the hardware. There’s compatibility with Pioneer’s rekordbox DJ software, too.

Find out more on the Pioneer DJ website. The DDJ-200 is compatible with iPhone/iPad and Android devices, as well as PC and Mac. It’ll be shipping soon priced at $149/£139.

• The best beginner DJ controllers for budding mix masters

Hercules Dj has launched a clutch of new controllers, which include the flagship Inpulse 300 and diminutive Starlight.

The Inpulse range includes two new models; the compact Inpulse 200 and the larger, more advanced Inpulse 300 - measuring at 18.9" x 11.2".

Both controllers are designed to teach you how to DJ and build up your skills with unique hardware light guides and integrated DJ Academy tutorials within the Djuced software.

The software also includes and Intelligent Music Assistant, which analyses and suggests the best tracks for your mix and with the Energy level function, you’ll be able match the best tracks for the occasion.

Star light, star bright

Hecules DJ has teamed up with Serato, once again, to produce a new compact Serato DJ controller called Starlight.

In what Hercules DJ is calling an “ultra-compact, ultra-light and ultra-practical device”, Starlight includes everything you need to mix and scratch with Serato DJ Lite.

With the built-in audio interface, you’ll be able to monitor your mix on headphones, play through speakers at the same time and the unit also includes RGB strobe-effect backlighting underneath the base.

All three models will be available late October, but pre-orders will be starting now, with the Inpulse 300 retailing for $199.99/€199.99/£179.99, the Inpulse 200 for $99.99/€99.99/£99.99 and Starlight coming in at $79.99/€79.99/£69.99. More details will be available on the Hercules DJ website.

Designed for aspiring DJs who want to hone the skills required to play out in clubs, Pioneer DJ’s XDJ-RR is a new 2-channel controller for use with the company’s rekordbox dj software.  

The premise of the device is simple: it takes the fundamental features of Pioneer DJ’s widely-used CDJ-2000NXS2 setup and puts them in a lightweight and portable chassis, so you can practise with it at home before taking it out to parties and gigs.

If you don’t want to hook the unit up to your PC/Mac and use rekordbox dj, which comes included, you can also load your tunes onto a USB storage device and play them from there. Essential information is displayed on a 7-inch colour screen, and performance features - such as Hot Cues, Slip Loop and Beat FX - are inherited from the NXS2.

The XDJ-RR is built with convenience in mind - just plug in the power, connect your speakers and you’re away. You can also play music from external sources via the aux input.

Available from the middle of this month and priced at $1,099, the XDJ-RR looks like a pretty compelling proposition for DJs who want a one-stop, high-performance solution. Find out more on the Pioneer DJ website.

Scratching used to be a DJing technique that took years to perfect, but with Pioneer’s DDJ-SB3, it’s as easy as pressing a pad.

This new controller - which updates the DDJ-SB2 - offers a feature called Pad Scratch, which was created in collaboration with DJ Jazzy Jeff. This enables you to initiate eight of his trademark scratch techniques - the scratch is automatically matched to the track’s BPM - which can be used in isolation or in combination with your own scratching.

The DDJ-SB3 is a 2-channel DJ controller that’s designed specifically for use with the Serato DJ Lite software. Its layout is similar to that of the more expensive DDJ-S devices and includes jog wheels, performance pads, play and cue buttons and independent auto loop buttons.

There’s also the new FX Fade feature, which enables you to reduce the volume and apply FX to a track at the same time. This is designed to ease the process of creating smooth transitions, and includes eight FX patterns that utilise high- and low-pass filters, loop playback and back spin. Other features include a built-in audio interface, a mic input and bus powering.

The DDJ-SB3 is available from today priced at £229. Find out more on the Pioneer DJ website.

NAMM 2018: Pioneer DJ’s DDJ-1000 is a new 4-channel controller that’s designed to be used with the company’s rekordbox dj performance software.

The device has a familiar look to it, and features the same jog wheels as you’ll find on Pioneer’s CDJ-2000NXS2. There’s also an On Jog display that displays track information, saving you from having to look at your laptop.

14 Beat FX are included, while the 16 multicoloured performance pads can be used to trigger Hot Cues, Pad FX and Keyboard Mode, which can be used to play a Hot Cue at different pitches. This gives you the option of using your sounds to play musical phrases.

The DDJ-1000 is designed to take advantage of the new features in the updated version of rekordbox (v5.1). These include the Related Tracks feature, which gives you more options for finding tracks that are matched to the ones you’re currently playing. The rekordbox dj Plus Pack, meanwhile, adds an Automix feature - this uses the upgraded track analysis tools to automatically and seamlessly mix your music.

The DDJ-1000 should be shipping soon and costs €1,199. It comes with a license key for rekordbox dj, which is worth €139. The update to rekordbox 5.1 will be available for free from 18 January.

Find out more on the Pioneer DJ website.

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Reloop’s latest DJ controller lives up to its Touch moniker by featuring a 7-inch full-colour touchscreen that can be used as an XY pad for effects control, to browse and select tracks, and to enable video mixing.

Designed for use with VirtualDJ Pro 8, which comes included, Touch is based on a 4-channel mixing layout and comes with a combined EQ/filter section. Each of the two deck sections features high-resolution jogwheels, faders and performance pads, and effects.

An audio section is built in, and MIDI compatibility means that the Touch can be used with other software if VirtualDJ isn’t to your liking.

“We are exited about the Reloop Touch, which was developed in close collaboration with VirtualDJ,” says Reloop CEO Gerald Barbyer. “This first of its kind DJ controller is equipped with a highly responsive 7-inch full-colour display that allows you to creatively interact with the touch screen and customize your workflow - ensuring you focus your hands and eyes on the centre of your performance.”

Compatible with PC and Mac, Reloop Touch will be available from early November priced at £620/$699/€699. Find out more on the Reloop website.

To help you get the most out of the latest version of rekordbox [link], Pioneer DJ has also dropped a new controller, called the DDJ-XP1, which promises to be the perfect tool for battle DJs and DVS users.

The unit includes 32 multi-coloured pads and the interface is also decked out with Hot Cue functions, Pad FX, Beat Jump, Sampler, Beat Loop, Slide FX strips and the new Key Shift and Keyboard modes.

Licences for rekordbox dj and rekordbox dvs worth a combined €248 are bundled with the hardware. However, there’s no official word yet on price and availability, so keep your eyes trained on the Pioneer DJ website for more news.

DDJ-XP1 features

• 32 multi-coloured Performance Pads
• Customisable interface
• Control for Hot Cues, Pad FX, Key Shift, Keyboard mode and more
• Slide FX strips
• Robust structure
• Non-slip rubber surface
• Includes rekordbox dj and rekordbox dvs licences

Roland has announced yet more new products, not long after the arrivals of the new TR-08 and SH-01A Boutique instruments and Aira SP-404 sampler. This time, it’s the Serato DJ controller range that’s getting a boost.

Taking their cues from the flagship DJ-808, two new Serato controllers going by the names of the DJ-505 and DJ-202 have been added to the ever-growing Aira range.

Like its elder sibling, the 505 includes the TR-S controls and sounds, but instead houses them in a slightly smaller two-channel, four-deck mixer. Full Serato DJ control is unlocked, and the unit can also be used in standalone mode to control turntables or players.

Further enhancing the ‘Remix, Produce, Perform’ tagline, the 16-step sequencer will also be able to control Serato’s latest software product, the Serato Sample plugin.

DJ-505 features

• Two channels and Deck Select for up to four decks
• Large, low-latency platters optimized for scratching
• Eight dedicated pad controls for Serato DJ with Hot Cue, Roll, Slicer, TR, Pattern, and Sampler modes
• Built-in, fully editable drum kits from Roland’s legendary TR-808, TR-909, TR-606*, and TR-707*, realized with advanced ACB (Analog Circuit Behavior) technology
• TR kits contain eight sounds–Bass Drum, Snare Drum, Closed Hat, Open Hat, Tom, Rim, Clap, and Ride–that can be played on the performance pads and triggered from the sequencer
• Shape TR drum sounds and Serato samples in real time with Level, Attack, Decay, and Tune knobs
• Classic 16-step sequencer that can trigger either TR drum sounds or the Serato Sampler; new features include nudge (TR-S), step-roll, and instrument/sample mute
• Unlocks Serato DJ and comes with a Serato Tool Kit license (includes Serato Pitch ‘n Time DJ, Serato Flip, and all Serato DJ FX packs)
• Mixer can be used standalone via connection of multi-players or turntables to the line and phono inputs; Serato DVS Upgrade Ready
• Balanced XLR outputs let you connect to a professional PA system; Booth Out plus separate 1/4-inch and 1/8-inch Phones outputs allow you to monitor your mixes
• Mic input with gate, hi-pass, reverb, and echo FX
• MIDI output to sync external devices with Serato DJ and the TR-S sequencer

Propping up the whole Serato controller range is the new DJ-202, which takes the two-channel, four-deck approach of the 505 and further condenses the package to focus on compatibility with the Serato Intro software in a more portable chassis.

Despite the lack of full TR-S functionality found on the 808 and 505, the 202 does feature the same TR-808 and 909 sounds, with the 606 and 707/727 sounds coming soon in a firmware update.

DJ-202 features

• Two-channel, four-deck controller for Serato Intro
• Large platters with the lowest available latency, optimized for scratching
• Built-in drum kits from Roland’s legendary TR-808, TR-909, TR-606*, and TR-707*, realized with advanced ACB (Analog Circuit Behavior) technology
• Eight sounds in each TR kit: Bass Drum, Snare Drum, Closed Hat, Open Hat, Tom, Rim, Clap, and Ride
• Onboard sequencer that controls Serato DJ Intro’s sampler for on-the-fly beat creation
• Independent sampler volume control
• Eight dedicated pads with Hot Cue, Loop, Sequencer, and Sampler modes for controlling Serato DJ Intro or Serato DJ software
• MIDI output for synchronizing external devices with tracks in Serato DJ Intro
• Mic input with gate, hi-pass, reverb, and echo FX
• 24-bit/48 kHz audio fidelity with high-resolution digital-to-analog converters
• Compact, rugged, and lightweight design with easy-grab handles for optimal portability
• Connect straight to your speakers or amplifier via RCA stereo outputs
• USB powered for simple connectivity
• Serato DJ Intro included; Serato DJ Upgrade Ready
• Use Serato DJ Intro to organize and build music libraries or integrate songs from iTunes—just drag a track to the deck, set and trigger cues, loops, and samples, and apply basic FX

There is currently no word on prices or availability, but we’ll bring you that news as soon as it becomes available. In the meantime, check out the Roland website.