MIDI Controllers for DJs
A MIDI controller is a piece of hardware that enables a DJ to control the playback of digital music in a software program on a computer.
This allows the DJ to control the digital music without the need for keyboard or mouse - a definite advantage in a DJ booth environment.
DJ software that is commonly used in conjunction with hardware controllers includes Traktor Pro from Native Instruments, and Serato ITCH.
The controller allows manipulation of all of the functions of the DJ software, including changing BPM and pitch, beat matching, cross fading from one track to another, setting cue points, effects, EQ, etc.
In effect, the controller becomes another 'deck' for the DJ.
There are two basic types of DJ controller.
A compact DJ controller, such as the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol X1, is designed to sit alongside a mixer, and is usually used in conjunction with turntables or CDJ players.
The second type of controller now often used by DJs are the larger 'twin-deck' controllers such as the Allen & Heath Xone:DX.
These are stand-alone units that emulate the layout of a traditional twin deck and mixer setup.
They usually feature two jog wheel controllers either side of a built-in digital mixer.
The touch-sensitive jog wheels allow the DJ to manipulate the track that is playing in exactly the same way as on a vinyl turntable or CDJ deck.
Some of the better controllers even allow the DJ to scratch! The all-in-one controllers are now becoming very popular with the mobile DJ.
A vast library of digital tracks can be fitted onto a laptop, which, when used in conjunction with a controller, gives a very portable setup.
Some people think that digital controllers are the future of DJing and that controllers will eventually take over from turntables and CDJ decks.
Other feel that controllers will never give the same hands-on experience.
Either way, MIDI controllers for DJs are definitely here to stay.
This allows the DJ to control the digital music without the need for keyboard or mouse - a definite advantage in a DJ booth environment.
DJ software that is commonly used in conjunction with hardware controllers includes Traktor Pro from Native Instruments, and Serato ITCH.
The controller allows manipulation of all of the functions of the DJ software, including changing BPM and pitch, beat matching, cross fading from one track to another, setting cue points, effects, EQ, etc.
In effect, the controller becomes another 'deck' for the DJ.
There are two basic types of DJ controller.
A compact DJ controller, such as the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol X1, is designed to sit alongside a mixer, and is usually used in conjunction with turntables or CDJ players.
The second type of controller now often used by DJs are the larger 'twin-deck' controllers such as the Allen & Heath Xone:DX.
These are stand-alone units that emulate the layout of a traditional twin deck and mixer setup.
They usually feature two jog wheel controllers either side of a built-in digital mixer.
The touch-sensitive jog wheels allow the DJ to manipulate the track that is playing in exactly the same way as on a vinyl turntable or CDJ deck.
Some of the better controllers even allow the DJ to scratch! The all-in-one controllers are now becoming very popular with the mobile DJ.
A vast library of digital tracks can be fitted onto a laptop, which, when used in conjunction with a controller, gives a very portable setup.
Some people think that digital controllers are the future of DJing and that controllers will eventually take over from turntables and CDJ decks.
Other feel that controllers will never give the same hands-on experience.
Either way, MIDI controllers for DJs are definitely here to stay.
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