DJ Controllers

Choosing Your DJ Decks

When it comes to choosing your controller, you have to consider three things: your needs, your experience level, and your budget.

Do you need an all-in-one system, professional DJ equipment or any other tools for functionality? The team at DY Pro Audio will be able to help with any queries or advice - you can contact us here!

Reloop Like a Pro: DJ Decks for Beginners

New to this industry? No worries - we have a great range of DJ controllers for beginners. 

As a new DJ, you should look out for controllers with simulated turntables, platters, FX buttons, and built-in mixers. Brands with controllers geared towards starters include Pioneer, Hercules and Gemini.

You should also consider what type of DJ you want to be. For example, are you planning on life as a virtual DJ or do you want to be djing to hundreds of people, giving the DJ performance of a lifetime? Some software, such as Serato DJ Lite, is perfect for beginners, while Serato DJ Pro is better for more experienced spinners.

Either way, your DJ performance will be elevated using our incredible products. For the extra edge, you should try to get decks with other basics like pitch faders, play and queue buttons, and line and cross-faders. Our pick is the Pioneer DJ CDJ-3000 Professional DJ Media Player, which comes with a new MPU, tough components and enhanced design, combining functionality with practicality.

DJ Decks for Experienced DJs

No matter your experience level, you should make sure you do your own research and decide which features are right for you. 

Between jog wheels, performance pads, customised inputs and designing your own audio interface, you can conduct research to create the ultimate controller for any level of experience.

Most experienced DJs will find what they need in our range, too. However, any of the standalone DJ systems offered by DY Pro Audio can be bolstered with other accessories. From the addition of a light show to world-class DJ software, say hello to equipment that will fast-track you into becoming a BPM master.

Features of DJ Decks

DJ consoles can be used as an all-in-one DJ system using great software - similar to how your iPad is run by ioS! The software selected will allow you to tweak any song, creating the ultimate playback!

With everything you need to make music at the stretch of your hand, a controller uses a collection of knobs, soundcards, midi controllers, keyboards, outputs, touch strips, faders, and much more to act as your main base. You can then use a sampler or media players to supplement your sounds, allowing for unforgettable DJ sets.

DJ Controller Brands

With branded products such as Hercules, ADJ, and Pioneer DJ controllers, you are guaranteed a quality product which will amp up your performance and allow you to mix smoothly.  From £69.99 to £2329, no matter your budget or skill level we are sure we have the perfect decks for you.  

Everything you need should be within reach and available at the touch of a button, which a good DJ controller will make possible. One of our favourites, the Pioneer DJ DDJ-1000 allows you to navigate hot cues with ease, while the Pioneer DDJ-400 is club-standard for party mix live shows.

DJ Deck Bundles

We also have a range of bundles available for purchase.  Get speakers, headphones, cases, and stands included with your new controller by purchasing one of our Pioneer DJ Controller bundles, and elevate your performance.  

The Pioneer DDJ-200 with Bag Bundle is one of our most recommended bundles, lightweight and compact with a 2-channel DJ controller in place.

DJ Controller Sizes

You should also consider the size of your controller. Some controllers are built to be as compact as possible to be travel friendly, but this means that all of your buttons and features are going to be very close together. 

The size of your controller may affect your ability to perform smoothly and effectively.  Consider which you require more: travel-friendly size or comfortable structure?  Any digital DJ will know that DJ mixers come in all shapes and sizes, and that size is incredibly important.

Once you know what you want from your controller, as well as the size you require, you can now use your budget to pick the model!  We have a wide range of controllers from a plethora of reputable DJ equipment brands, such as Pioneer’s DJM-V10 6-Channel Club DJ Mixer and the Pioneer DJ XDJ-RR All-In-One DJ Controller, so you are certain to find the perfect controller for you.  

One great thing about DJ equipment is how it is custom to you.  No one DJ will have the exact same kit as another, as you can pick and choose equipment to match your needs, such as introducing a touchscreen or motorised tools.  This way, your setup revolves around you and your performance, allowing you to deliver smooth mixes and drops easily.

DJ Controllers FAQs

What is the best DJ controller for beginners?

While there is no right or wrong controller for a DJ, and you should pick your controller based on your needs as a performer, there are still controllers out there that may be inappropriate for beginners.

For example, the Rane One is often recommended for beginners, but this system is best for those who wish to learn scratching techniques.

We would suggest sticking with reputable brands like Pioneer or Hercules and staying within your budget to ensure you are getting a useful yet not overwhelming controller.

What does a beginner DJ need?

We can’t state enough that your DJ kit depends entirely on your needs and purpose of performing. Despite this, we all have to start somewhere!

A typical basic DJ setup includes quality headphones, a mixer, turntables or a DJ controller, and monitor speakers. Which specific products you use and how you choose to style them with accessories is up to you!

You also need software - we recommend a Serato DJ controller as the tool is easy to use and compatible with a multitude of equipment.

Finally, you should also think about mobility. We advise on investing in a great carry case, such as the UDG Creator NI Kontrol S4 MK3/S2 MK3 Hardcase.

What should I look for in a DJ controller?

There are three things you should expect from a quality DJ controller:

Features that are high quality and easy to use

All your needs from a controller are met

Room for growth

All of the wheels, knobs, and buttons should be of high quality and should perform well with no glitches or delays. All your needs from a controller should be met, which you should research in order to fulfil this requirement.

Your DJ controller should offer room for growth, as you will continue to learn and develop your mixing skills and your controller should reflect this and allow some room for learning and experimenting. As a result, you may want to invest in a 4-channel DJ controller as this will enable scope for growth.